ApartmentHacker Podcast

Being late doesn't just waste time — it erodes trust. Let's talk about why being early matters more than you think.Welcome back to the Multifamily Collective!Today, Mike Brewer brings the heat on a topic he's radically passionate about: punctuality.Showing up on time — or better yet, early — isn't just about good manners. It's a direct signal of respect, trust, and personal accountability.Mike shares a powerful story about a new airline CEO who taught his team a lesson they'd never forget — one that translates perfectly to the Multifamily world.Because when team members show up late, when make-readies slip behind schedule, when service promises go unmet — trust breaks down.And when trust breaks down, everything suffers: morale, operations, and the resident experience.If you're a leader who wants to raise the bar on culture, accountability, and excellence, this episode is a must.And don't forget — RSVP now for Podcast Palooza during NAA's Apartmentalize Conference at MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com!If punctuality is a value you're ready to double down on, tap Like and Subscribe. Let's build a culture of trust in Multifamily, together.

Deadlines aren't suggestions. They're fuel for your business engine. Let's get serious about them today.Welcome back to the Multifamily Collective!Today, Mike Brewer tackles a silent killer of progress — missing deadlines.Whether it's a team member, a customer, or a supplier partner, missed deadlines drag your business down and stall momentum.Mike dives into why missed deadlines happen — lack of clarity, lack of urgency, analysis paralysis — and how leaders must respond.You'll learn why setting clear expectations, securing real commitments, and clearing roadblocks is your true job as a leader.Because when the team wins on deadlines, the business wins on growth.If you're serious about leading at the pace the Multifamily and PropTech industries demand today, this episode is a can't-miss.And don't forget — RSVP now for Podcast Palooza during NAA's Apartmentalize Conference at MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com!If this message hit home, smash that Like button and Subscribe. Let's build faster, smarter, stronger Multifamily teams together!

Mistakes aren't the problem — it's repeating them that drags your business down. Let's get after it today.Welcome back to the Multifamily Collective!Today, Mike Brewer celebrates "Mistake Day" — and no, that's not a typo.Mistakes are natural. Mistakes are necessary. But there's a world of difference between using mistakes as data points for growth — and dragging your organization down by making the same mistakes over and over again.Mike shares personal stories and leadership insights on why some team members turn mistakes into education and momentum, while others turn them into anchors.You'll learn how to spot the difference, how to coach with intention, and how to double down on the people who are learning, growing, and accelerating your business.If you're serious about creating a culture that moves fast, learns faster, and wins bigger, this episode is for you.And don't forget — RSVP for Podcast Palooza at the 1923 Club during NAA's Apartmentalize! Grab your spot at MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com!If today's episode gave you a spark, hit Like and Subscribe. Let's keep pushing Multifamily leadership forward, one smart mistake at a time!

Hoverers slow your business down — but they're also asking for help. Let's talk about it today.Welcome back to the Multifamily Collective!Today, Mike Brewer shines a light on a group you probably recognize — the "hoverers" in your organization.These are the team members who constantly seek validation, feedback, and reassurance — and if left unchecked, they can subtly slow your business down.Mike breaks down why hoverers aren't just needy — they're signaling a need for leadership, for teaching, training, mentoring, and coaching.It's not about enabling.It's about inspiring.It's about building character and raising performance standards without letting the team drift into dependency.If you're serious about creating a fast-moving, high-character organization, this episode is critical for your leadership toolkit.And hey — don't forget to RSVP for Podcast Palooza at the 1923 Club in Las Vegas during the NAA's Apartmentalize event. Get your spot locked in at MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com!If you found this message valuable, smash the Like button and Subscribe. Let's build better Multifamily businesses together!

If you're stuck gathering data while others are making moves, you're already behind. Let's fix that today.Welcome back to the Multifamily Collective!Today, Mike Brewer tackles one of the biggest silent killers of momentum in business: overthinking.You know the signs — endless gathering of data, endless meetings, endless delays.Overthinkers create analysis paralysis, stall initiatives, and quietly drag your Multifamily or PropTech business behind the competition.Mike shares why it's critical to coach, teach, train, and mentor your teams out of the overthinking trap.You'll learn how a "ship and iterate" mindset — making a decision, learning from feedback, adjusting quickly — is the key to thriving in today's rapid-fire business environment.If you're serious about keeping pace in a world accelerated by AI and innovation, this episode is your call to action.And don't forget — RSVP today for Podcast Palooza at the 1923 Club in Las Vegas during the NAA's Apartmentalize Conference! Secure your spot at MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com!If you found value today, hit Like and Subscribe. Let's grow and move faster together in the Multifamily and PropTech world!

You can't outrun change with a team stuck at the starting line. Let's fix that today.Welcome back to the Multifamily Collective!Today, Mike Brewer tackles a leadership challenge that's more urgent than ever: the team members who actively do just the bare minimum to get by.You know the type — given 30 days to finish a task, they'll use every single one. In a world where business moves at breakneck speed, that mindset is a liability.Mike unpacks why "good enough" is no longer good enough.He shares why teaching, training, mentoring, and coaching are no longer optional — they're critical.And he explains how to either bring these team members along or make the tough choice to move them out.If you're serious about building a Multifamily organization that can sprint ahead of competitors, this episode is a must-listen.And don't forget — RSVP for the Podcast Palooza at the 1923 Club in Las Vegas! It's happening during the NAA's Apartmentalize conference. Lock in your spot now at MultifamilyMediaNetwork.com!If this message resonates, tap Like and hit Subscribe. Let's grow stronger together in the future of Multifamily, PropTech, and leadership.

You ever notice how one bad attitude can cloud your whole team? Let's fix that today.Welcome back to the Multifamily Collective!Today, Mike Brewer unpacks the hidden drag that constant complainers create inside your organization.These are the folks who walk around with a thundercloud over their heads — raining negativity on your teams, supplier partners, and even your residents.Left unchecked, they pull down morale, damage your reputation, and stifle momentum in ways you can't afford.Mike breaks down the leadership mindset needed to mentor and coach these individuals toward positivity — or, when necessary, gracefully show them the exit.Learn why fostering a positive mental attitude isn't just a “nice to have” — it's critical for scaling success in Multifamily and PropTech leadership today.And don't miss this — RSVP now for Podcast Palooza at the 1923 Club during NAA! Jennifer Carter is pulling together something truly epic this year. You want to be there!If this episode hit home, smash that Like button and Subscribe. Stay plugged into the conversations that are shaping the future of Multifamily, PropTech, and leadership!

Ever handed someone a football and forgot to call the play?In this episode of the Thereby Series, Mike Brewer shares a powerful leadership lesson from his early career — and breaks down one of the most common blockers in the Multifamily business: team members who deliver data without solutions.You've seen it.Someone asks for numbers.You get the numbers.You drop them off like a hot potato.And then… silence.No context.No analysis.No suggestion.Thereby, you stall decision-making and frustrate leaders.Mike explains why simply "handing off the ball" isn't enough. What decision-makers really want is insight. Interpretation. A clear point of view. Whether it's from ops, marketing, HR — whatever seat you're in, if you're asked for something, assume the unspoken ask is: “What do I do with this?”And if you're not offering that, you're not just missing a chance to shine — you're slowing down the team.This one's for anyone looking to level up their critical thinking and grow into the kind of professional who adds value, not just volume.Love real-talk lessons that grow leaders from the inside out?Like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who's ready to stop playing pass-the-data and start calling the plays.And if you're into strong coffee and strong culture, check out M&M Coffee over on the site — highly endorsed, deeply caffeinated.

What's one of the biggest drags on your Multifamily business?Low initiative.In this episode of the Thereby Series, Mike Brewer explores what happens when team members — or worse, leaders — show up every day without the fire to get things done.This isn't about having an off day.It's about the pattern of inactivity.The constant need to light a fire under someone just to get the basics done.The teammate who never moves the ball downfield without being told exactly where and how to push.And thereby, your business stalls.Residents feel it.Supplier partners feel it.Investors feel it.And your high-initiative rockstars? They burn out cleaning up the slack.Mike contrasts this with the kind of team members you should be building around — the tigers. The ones who run hard, take ownership, and occasionally need to be reined in because they're moving that fast. You want those people. You need those people. And you've got to protect them from the drag of low-initiative teammates.This episode is a call to action for leaders to coach, mentor, and — when necessary — make the hard call to move on. Because a low-initiative culture is not just slow.It's a liability.Big thanks to the tenacious trio over at The Turnover podcast — a must-listen for anyone serving the Multifamily service side. Subscribe now and catch up!

Do you have someone on your team who needs a parade for every little task?In this episode of the Thereby Series from the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer explores the subtle drain caused by team members who require constant high praise — not for milestones, but for the everyday basics.We all know that person.Every email sent.Every dollar collected.Every box checked — must be met with applause.And while affirmation has its place, thereby, this behavior wears down leaders, distracts peers, and chips away at the team's focus and momentum.This isn't about being unkind.It's about protecting your culture.Because too much noise over the small stuff makes it harder to celebrate the big wins — the kind that actually move your business forward.Mike also unpacks the healthier alternative: the quiet producers.The ones who don't need pats on the back to stay motivated.The ones who run fast, solve problems, and only pop up when there's something truly worth celebrating.Whether you're leading a startup or scaling a seasoned Multifamily portfolio, you need to manage praise intentionally — not constantly.Appreciate content that blends tough love with leadership truth?Like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone building resilient teams in the Multifamily space.

Let's talk about the hidden cost of high-maintenance behavior in your business.In this episode of the Thereby Series, Mike Brewer takes aim at a term that might feel loaded — high maintenance — and gives it a hard, honest look through the lens of Multifamily leadership.This isn't just about someone being “needy.”This is about the team member who consumes time, energy, and attention from every department — HR, marketing, risk, accounting, learning & development.They slow the machine.They gum up collaboration.They treat their high-maintenance tendencies like a badge of honor.And thereby, they cost your business more than you realize.But here's the good news: there's a better way.Contrast that with the resourceful team member — the one who seeks solutions before asking for help, who comes with options instead of just problems, who self-educates in an age when knowledge is a click away.In a business moving fast — especially in Multifamily — that kind of teammate isn't just helpful.They're essential.This is a call to leaders: set the tone, celebrate the resourceful, and address the drag.Because if your organization is full of high-maintenance mindsets, you're not just tired — you're stuck.Like this kind of raw, real-world leadership content?Smash the like button, subscribe for more, and share this with someone navigating the high-maintenance maze.

Are your team members stuck on “got-a-minute” mode?In this episode of the Thereby Series from the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer calls out one of the quiet killers of business momentum: team members who need constant input on the little stuff.We're talking about the ones who stop by every hour with another question.The ones who can't make a move without checking in.The ones who can't operate without reassurance — even when the task is clearly in their lane.Here's the problem: thereby, your business slows to a crawl.Mike shares the contrast between that and the kind of team member every leader wants: the tiger. The one who grabs the vision, knows the guardrails, and runs. Sure, they may step over the line now and again — but you'd rather rein in a wild horse than push a cart with no wheels.This episode reminds us that speed and success in Multifamily come from building a culture of empowered, autonomous professionals who don't need hand-holding — they need vision and trust.Want more leadership lessons rooted in real-world Multifamily experience?Like this video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who's building something great.Special shoutout to the creative minds at 365 Connect — innovators in PropTech and automation.

Ever feel like you're doing all the driving while others just ride along, offering commentary?In this episode of the Thereby Series from the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer unpacks the contrast between two types of team members: the drivers and the passengers.Drivers don't wait to be told what to do.They don't need constant redirection.They take the wheel, seek clarity, and then go.Passengers? They show up. They ride along.But they don't fill the tank. They don't take a shift at the wheel.Worse — some critique your route the whole time.And that dynamic thereby causes fatigue — for leaders, for teams, and for cultures trying to move forward.Mike shares his take on how this mindset shows up in multifamily organizations, why tolerating the wrong kind of passengers is hurting your momentum, and what it looks like to build a team full of drivers — the kind that push your business to excellence.Because in today's multifamily world, you need fewer backseat drivers and more people grabbing the wheel.Enjoying these real-world leadership insights?Smash that like button, subscribe, and share this with a fellow leader driving change in the multifamily space.

Let's call it what it is — professionalism is fading.And it's making leaders across industries flat-out exhausted.In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer continues the “Thereby” series inspired by Old-Fashioned Leadership by Britton Douglas and David Woods — spotlighting a root cause of fatigue in the workplace: a lack of maturity and professionalism.We're not just talking about “kids these days.”We're talking about five generations in the workforce.We're talking about blurred lines between casual and careless.We're talking about team members who show up without presence, without polish, and without respect for process or people — including supplier partners.And it's not just bad form.It's bad for business.Because when the basics of maturity and professionalism fall apart, everything else follows — from customer service to internal communication to culture. But when leaders hold the line? Thereby, you create clarity, consistency, and a company worth belonging to.Mike lays it out with practical wisdom from years in the trenches and a simple reminder: If you want a professional result, you have to act like a professional.If you value straightforward leadership talk that challenges the norm,hit like, subscribe, and share this with a teammate who's building something that lasts.

Is your culture being slowly dragged down by a chronic venter?In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer continues unpacking insights from Old-Fashioned Leadership by Britton Douglas and David Woods. Entry #4 in the series shines a light on a silent productivity killer: the team member who vents. Constantly.You know the type.Every system, every routine, every meeting — it's all fuel for another round of grievances.And while venting might feel harmless, over time it becomes a weight.A 50-pound anchor in the sand.A string you're trying to push in a straight line.A never-ending drag on culture, morale, and performance.Mike walks us through how unchecked negativity leads to leader fatigue and organizational burnout — especially in Multifamily, where every team member's attitude affects the resident experience and the bottom line.But there's hope.If you can coach it out, do it.If not, then be clear-eyed: you must coach them out.Because your business can't carry that kind of weight forever.Like content that gets real about leadership and culture?Give this video a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone building strong teams in the Multifamily space.

Let's talk about the silent killer of culture in Multifamily teams: underlying negativity.In this third entry of the "Thereby" series, Mike Brewer breaks down how one person's energy — the tone of their voice, the muttered words as they walk away, the passive-aggressive comments — can act like a slow-moving toxin in your organization.You've seen it.You've felt it.That “pokey in the eye” energy.That “salt on the wound” presence.That person who, without ever raising their voice, drags the mood down in every room they enter.Left unchecked, this kind of behavior thereby creates a culture where safety, creativity, and collaboration die a slow death. It infects team dynamics, resident experiences, and even vendor relationships.But flip the script?Coach that person into a posture of positivity, and you thereby multiply opportunity across the board.And if you can't coach it out?Then you change the person. Full stop.Because your culture deserves better.Your team deserves better.And you, as a leader, deserve better.If this hit home, help us spread the message.Like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share this with someone who's building strong teams in the Multifamily space.

Ever wonder what Starbucks' green apron can teach us about Multifamily?In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, I unpack a quiet revolution happening at Starbucks under their new CEO — black attire returning to the forefront to let the iconic green apron shine. It's branding. It's intentionality. It's leadership.And it got me thinking…What's our green apron in the Multifamily industry?Have we relaxed too far post-COVID?Have we traded consistency and professionalism for comfort?I reflect on the days when dress codes were the norm — when career apparel wasn't a buzzkill but a badge of purpose. Today, we walk into leasing offices and see everything from casual Friday to “did you forget you work in leasing?” And while this isn't a knock on anyone, it's a call to reimagine how we show up — for our teams, our brands, and most importantly, our customers.This isn't about fashion.It's about storytelling.It's about packaging.It's about pride.What message do we send when we present ourselves well? When our team attire becomes a visual handshake that says, "We take this seriously"?Maybe it's time we found our own green apron.Like this kind of industry insight?Hit that like button, subscribe to the channel, and join the conversation in the comments below.We're just getting started.

Ever feel like your team just… doesn't own it?In this second episode of the Thereby Series, Mike Brewer gets to the heart of another silent business killer: lack of confidence. Whether it's fresh hires or seasoned vets, when your team doesn't believe in their ability to deliver, your business outcomes take the hit.Mike unpacks how this confidence gap isn't always the fault of the employee—it's often a failure of onboarding, training, and mentorship. When systems are shaky and guidance is missing, leaders create a culture of hesitation instead of hustle.You'll hear:Why "throw them the keys and hope for the best" is a recipe for burnout—yours and theirs.How proper training eliminates fatigue and unlocks performance.The link between team confidence and your bottom line.If you're exhausted by constant follow-up, fire drills, and feeling like you're the only one who “gets it”—this episode is for you.

Ever feel like your team is running in place?In this first episode of the Thereby Series, Mike Brewer unpacks a critical leadership lesson that every Multifamily leader needs to hear: the inability to make decisions is quietly killing your momentum.Drawing from the book Old Fashioned Leadership: Lessons from the Patio by Brent Douglas and David Woods, Mike gets real about the exhaustion plaguing today's leaders. Not from the workload—but from indecision. That creeping fatigue? It's often not from doing too much—it's from dragging others along who can't pull their weight in the decision-making department.You'll learn:Why decision paralysis is the silent killer of productive culture.How to approach team members stuck in neutral.What leaders can do to cultivate safety, empowerment, and urgency in decision-making.This isn't just theory—it's what's happening in your leasing offices, your maintenance meetings, and your strategy sessions. Let's stop the fatigue at its root.

You and I both know it—leadership in the multifamily space is due for a shake-up.In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, I (Mike Brewer) kick off something new, something needed: the Strategy Series. Inspired by Seth Godin's This is Strategy, I'm not just riffing—I'm reshaping those big, broad questions into laser-focused conversations for high-leverage thinkers in multifamily. Operators, visionaries, VPs, and regionals—this one's for you.But that's not all.I'm also thrilled to introduce Shannon Bryant and her upcoming podcast Lead Without Limits—part of the growing Multifamily Media Network (MMN). Shannon's bringing fresh insight, energy, and leadership edge to our collective table. You'll want to tune in.Whether you're tired of vague strategy decks or allergic to empty mission statements, this new content series is your call to action. If you're done asking for permission and ready to build strategy with clarity, velocity, and purpose—you're in the right room.And what's the end game? A salon. Not the hair kind. The think tank kind. A place for idea collisions, smart dialogue, and unfiltered leadership breakthroughs—welcome to the future of multifamily thought leadership.If that sounds like your scene, hit that like button. Subscribe. Share with someone who's allergic to average. Let's build this together.

You can cast a bold vision.You can write eloquent emails.You can speak at every town hall.But none of it matters without action.In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, we explore the Latin phrase Spectrumer Agendo—“judged by actions.” And let me be clear: in today's complex, fast-moving Multifamily space, the market rewards those who execute, not those who just eloquently communicate.Too many leaders confuse communication with movement. We wrap vision in slides and strategy decks and forget the most critical piece—traction.It's time to break through the organizational sacred cows, cut through the bureaucratic noise, and move. That means getting out of your comfortable chair, walking properties, listening to your leasing team, fixing friction points with your maintenance staff.Want to be a leader worth following? Get seen in the field. Be present. Take action. Spectrumer Agendo.If you're serious about building a culture of action and accountability in Multifamily, hit Like and Subscribe. Let's build organizations that move—not just talk.

Let's talk about adaptere—Latin for “to adapt.”It's not just a word. It's your lifeline in the ever-accelerating world of Multifamily.In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, I'm sounding the alarm on a critical skill every leader needs right now: adaptation. You can't teach it too late. And you can't afford to wait. The pace of change has gone from decades to days—and your ability to peer over the horizon, see what's coming, and communicate that to your team is what separates the market leaders from the footnotes.We're talking AI. Tech evolution. Workflow redesign.The organizations that move fast, listen hard, and tweak often are the ones winning.I break it down to four key areas: Team Members, Customers, Supplier Partners, and Investors. These are your battlegrounds. This is where you implement bleeding-edge tech and skip the legacy clutter. You've got a chance to leapfrog years of delay and position your organization at the front of the pack.Start small. Think big. Move fast.Call to Action:If you're ready to be the leader who looks past today's fires and prepares for tomorrow's future, smash that Like button and Subscribe. The Multifamily space is evolving—are you?

Let's get honest—nobody likes confrontation.But in Multifamily leadership? Avoiding conflict is costing you.In today's episode, I tackle a topic that's deeply personal and wildly underdeveloped in our industry: conflict mitigation and courageous conversations. Whether it's addressing behavior, performance, or simply picking up the trash—leaders must stop punting the tough conversations down the road.I'll walk you through a practical, battle-tested framework I learned back in my Equity Residential days: the SPI model—Situation, Behavior, Impact. It helps you call out the issue, not the person.We're entering an era where soft skills are king. As AI takes over the keyboard work, human connection becomes your competitive advantage. That means mastering emotional conversations in moments of truth is no longer optional.You want better outcomes? Start by saying what needs to be said.If this message hits home, hit Like and Subscribe. Share this with someone who needs to step up and lead with courage in our beloved Multifamily space.

If you're not talking about AI in your Multifamily team meetings, you're already behind.Today, I'm laying the groundwork for a new series on upskilling and reskilling in the age of AI—tailored for leaders and learners across the multifamily space.Yes, AI has made landfall. And while the digital tide rises, we've got two choices—ride the wave or get swept under it.In this episode, we explore how artificial intelligence is quietly reshaping the way your teams work—at home, at the office, in ways you may not even see. Whether it's ChatGPT, Perplexity, Grok, or an AI you've never heard of, your people are using it. The question is: are you letting them use it out in the open?This is about building a culture of experimentation, empowering your most creative minds, and partnering with platforms like AppFolio that are embedding AI at the core of their offering.It's not about control. It's about enablement.Start simple. Stay curious. And for the love of your workflow—check the AI's work before you hit publish.Call to Action:If you found value in this, hit that Like button and Subscribe for more leadership insights and PropTech perspectives. Let's shape the future of Multifamily—together.

Why do residents leave? Why do prospects walk away?Often, it's not rent or amenities—it's silence.In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer brings the heat on what truly separates thriving properties from the ones stuck in the mud: radical prioritization of response and resolution. The phone rings. The emails stack. And too often, the customer gets lost in the shuffle. But it doesn't have to be that way.Mike challenges Multifamily leaders to make customer response their bonfire—the thing they rally around. He unpacks how quick replies and swift solutions don't just boost resident satisfaction—they spark loyalty, retention, referrals, and reputation.

Ever wonder what it's like to take the helm of a family-founded company and still chart your own course?In this episode of MultifamilyCollective, I sat down with Andrew S. Kadish, CEO of Capri Investment Group, to talk about what it really means to lead with care. From licking envelopes in accounts payable to orchestrating a culture of “Family First” leadership—Andrew's journey isn't just a story of succession. It's a masterclass in honoring legacy while embracing innovation.We cover a wide swath of today's multifamily landscape—from embracing PropTech and AI responsibly, to investing in student housing with intention and empathy, to building an enduring company culture that prizes integrity and excellence.Andrew breaks down:The family ethos behind Capri's “FACE IN” core values.The power of saying “yes” early in your career.The human-centered future of AI in Multifamily.How student housing is more than just a new asset class—it's an opportunity to serve.The importance of walking the sites, smelling the “apple pie” (or socks!), and staying connected at every level.There's humor. There's heart. There's hard-won insight. And it's all delivered in Andrew's signature, straight-shooting style.If you're in Multifamily leadership, or aspire to be, this one's not to be missed.

Why do residents leave? Why do prospects walk away?Often, it's not rent or amenities—it's silence.In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer brings the heat on what truly separates thriving properties from the ones stuck in the mud: radical prioritization of response and resolution. The phone rings. The emails stack. And too often, the customer gets lost in the shuffle. But it doesn't have to be that way.Mike challenges Multifamily leaders to make customer response their bonfire—the thing they rally around. He unpacks how quick replies and swift solutions don't just boost resident satisfaction—they spark loyalty, retention, referrals, and reputation.

Every great community has a bonfire.Not always with flames and logs—but with energy, focus, and connection.In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer shares the Bonfire Effect—a powerful metaphor for what happens when you create a clear focal point inside your organization or apartment community. Whether it's light-speed service, unmatched vendor relationships, or community culture, your bonfire becomes the thing that draws people in... and keeps them there.

Ever been in a meeting where every idea gets shot down with a “Yeah, but…”?In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer introduces the "Yes, And" Principle—a tool borrowed from the world of improv that can transform your team culture and collaboration. Instead of shutting down ideas, this approach validates contributions, fosters creativity, and opens up the space for unexpected breakthroughs.Mike shares how this simple shift—from “Yeah, but” to “Yes, and”—can lead to a third mind effect. That's when collaborative energy produces ideas greater than any one person could create alone. And in the high-stakes world of Multifamily leadership, that kind of team synergy is gold.

Coffee lovers, this one's for you.In this special coffee review episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer takes a deep dive into the Tactus Squash Roast from Black Rifle Coffee Company—a veteran-owned brand making waves with both their bold flavor and patriotic mission.Mike gives his honest take on this dark, strong, and bold roast, perfect for those who need that powerful morning jolt. Not for the faint of heart, this coffee has a flavor that hits you hard—right when you need it. From its deep, rich taste to its energizing power, it's coffee designed to kickstart your day.Black Rifle Coffee isn't just about a great cup of coffee; it's about giving back. Their mission to hire veterans and support the veteran community is as strong as the brew itself.Mike gives this one a 9/10 for boldness, and while it's perfect for those who love a strong cup, it might not be for your everyday coffee drinker. For that, it sits closer to a 6.8/10—a punchy, no-holds-barred coffee that demands a real coffee lover's palette.

Ever feel like everyone else is winning—and you're just stuck at the starting line?In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer breaks down the myth of overnight success and introduces a more powerful truth: Success breeds success. But first, you've got to push the flywheel.Mike unpacks how small wins—the kind you might overlook—are actually the beginning of massive momentum. Like a melting ice cap or a heavy wheel gaining speed, success starts slowly... and then takes on a life of its own. What begins with making your bed can lead to mastering your market.For Multifamily leaders, this message is pure gold:✔️ Create wins for yourself and your team—no matter how small✔️ Build momentum that fuels confidence✔️ Watch success compound—until others are looking at you thinking, “Why not me?”

What if freedom wasn't about escape—but alignment?In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer brings a fresh perspective to the idea of freedom, especially in the context of leadership. Spoiler alert: It's not about quitting your job or disappearing to a remote island. It's about being in alignment with your values—in your work, your relationships, your routines.Mike explores how discipline leads to freedom, drawing from both personal belief and practical experience. When your habits, decisions, and leadership align with your true north, you experience a freedom that no external condition can provide.For those leading in the Multifamily space, this is your invitation to:Identify the areas of misalignment in your life or business.Eliminate the noise—habits, people, or systems pulling you off course.Lead from a place of purpose—so your impact multiplies.And when you do that? You unlock something powerful. Because a leader in alignment becomes a magnet for results that can't be measured by spreadsheets.

Let's be honest—time and resources are the two frustrations that haunt nearly every Multifamily leader.In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer lays it out: We live in a world that demands more with less—less time, fewer resources, and increasing pressure to deliver faster. But what if the first step isn't pushing harder... it's acknowledging the limits?Mike offers a clear framework for addressing the real frustrations behind the chaos:✔️ Identify the root cause✔️ Set intentional targets (goals, KPIs—call it what you will)✔️ Integrate stress management practices that actually stickFrom breathing techniques to team-wide timeout permission, Mike shares actionable ideas to protect your culture from external tension and keep your team moving forward with clarity.This isn't just about coping. It's about leading with awareness—and building organizations that can withstand the emotional weather of the world we live in.

If life's always handed you green lights and rockstar parking, this one's for you.In today's episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer breaks down the concept of “Unbruised Prosperity”—a life untouched by hardship—and why it lacks the muscle memory for true leadership. Especially in Multifamily, where navigating challenges is part of the job.Mike challenges us to see adversity as the gym where resilience is built. He unpacks why experiencing conflict, roadblocks, and the occasional emotional bruising is not just necessary—it's essential. Whether it's critical thinking, conflict resolution, or creative problem solving, those skills don't show up without the reps.For those leading teams, communities, or even themselves in the Multifamily space, this is your call to embrace the challenge—not avoid it. Because real strength isn't built in comfort. It's built in the trenches.

Ever thought logic was the king of decision-making? Think again.In this episode of Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer pulls back the curtain on how emotions—not logic—drive our decisions, even when we think we're being rational. Whether you're choosing a new car, signing a lease, or leading a multimillion-dollar apartment community, it's emotion that moves the needle—logic just follows to make sense of it.Mike shares why this matters so much in Multifamily leadership—and how mastering the art of storytelling is the secret weapon for influencing your team, inspiring action, and creating real outcomes. If you're in the business of motivating people and managing performance, this is one episode you don't want to miss.Don't just lead with your head. Lead with heart. Back it with reason. That's where real impact happens.

We've over-engineered the simple.In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer challenges one of the biggest myths in property management: more tech means better results. With too many platforms chasing too many micro-problems, we've lost sight of what really matters—people serving people.It's time to talk about trade-offs.Inspired by a conversation with Dom Beveridge and a callback to Steve Jobs' bold decisions with the iPhone, Mike digs into:Why the current tech stack in multifamily is too clutteredThe dangerous myth of “best-of-breed” everythingThe beauty (and business brilliance) of simple systemsWhy the next evolution in PropTech is actually a devolution—back to basicsThe bold trade-offs operators must make for clarity, not complexityWe've complicated a business that isn't complicated. And that needs to change.Don't forget to RSVP for Podcast Palooza 2025 in Las Vegas! It's happening at Club 1923 during Apartmentalize. Hosted by the incredible Jennifer Carter and emceed by Eric & Justin from the Multifamily Weekend Edition—this is the can't-miss event of the summer. Go to the Multifamily Media Network website and get on the list now.If you're tired of tech for tech's sake, hit that Like button, Subscribe, and share with someone ready to make meaningful trade-offs.

We're in a post-tsunami moment in Multifamily.The flood of PropTech promised us streamlined processes, hyper-automation, and frictionless leasing journeys. But what did it cost us?In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer breaks down the unintended consequence of too much tech: we've lost sight of the customer journey. From the moment someone thinks about moving to the moment they sign a lease—we've overcomplicated it.It's time for a reset.Mike shares:Why too much tech = blurry resident experiencesThe coming "great reconciliation" in Multifamily tech stacksHow entrepreneurial exit strategies are slowing down innovationWhy simple isn't just better—it's essentialA call to return to first principles thinkingThe future isn't more tech for the sake of tech. It's people taking care of people. With tools that work with you, not against you.And hey, before you go—RSVP for Podcast Palooza 2025! We're leveling up this year and throwing the can't-miss event at NAA's Apartmentalize. Hit up the Multifamily Media Network website and get on the list!If this hits home, Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who's buried in a tech stack and needs a breath of fresh air.

Want to stand out in a crowded multifamily market?Spoiler: It's not your pool. It's not your gym. And it's definitely not the number of stainless steel appliances you have.In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer unpacks a truth we all need to hear—people are your greatest competitive advantage. When everything else is equal—location, rent, amenities—what truly sets your community apart is how you make people feel.That means:Training your team to listen, not just leaseTeaching instincts over scriptsMaking sure residents (and supplier partners) feel seen, heard, and valuedYou don't need to be 6'8" to stand out. You just need to care—and show it.Inside this episode:Why emotional intelligence trumps feature warsThe death of the leasing script and rise of natural connectionHow poor service habits are killing your brand experienceWhat it really means to be a Purple Cow in the multifamily fieldPut the phone down. Look people in the eye. Serve first—and serve well.Like what you're hearing? Smash that Like button, Subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that service is the strategy.

You won't find this KPI on any spreadsheet—but it might be the one thing that transforms your entire property management business.In today's episode of the Multifamily Collective, I'm pulling back the curtain on something crucial. Something that doesn't show up in your NOI calculations, your occupancy charts, or your lead conversion reports.We're talking about the human side of multifamily.When you reduce property management to pure transactions, you lose what really matters—connection. But what happens when you shift from extraction to contribution?Imagine two identical properties. Same amenities. Same rent rolls. Same zip code. The only difference? One is driven by transactional leadership. The other is driven by love, by care, and by purpose.Which one wins? Easy answer.In this video, you'll hear:Why NOI is just a trailing indicatorHow emotional leadership builds gravity for residents and team membersThe three real metrics every property leader should trackWhat it means to lead a mission—not a spreadsheetYour NOI? It'll take care of itself when you start measuring lives touched, trust earned, and community built.Like this message? Hit that Like button. Subscribe to the channel. And share it with someone who leads with heart.

You ever feel like the multifamily space is moving so fast, it's hard to know where to place your next bet? Same. That's why I sat down with the one and only Dom Beveridge, mastermind behind the 20 for 20 report, for an inside look at what's really going on in the world of Multifamily, PropTech, and leadership.In this power-packed episode, Dom and I roll through:Why 2025 is shaping up more optimistic than you think—and what's behind that cautious confidence.The PropTech consolidation wave: more companies, fewer winners, and why M&A season is here.A surprising surge in renewals—despite record new supply.The fraud tech arms race: 12 vendors, one leader? (Spoiler: it's probably Snappt).A deep disconnect in the customer journey and why most operators don't even know what theirs looks like anymore.The shifting tide of revenue management and why comp-based pricing might be losing its grip.AI vs. Automation—real-world use cases that go beyond the buzzwords.What centralization actually looks like in practice, and how operators are rethinking on-site roles.Why every tech decision is a trade-off between simplicity and functionality—and how that's shaping the future of multifamily.This is the kind of episode you'll want to bookmark and share with your whole team. If you care about tech, leadership, and staying competitive in multifamily, this one's for you.

Let me hit you with a truth bomb: You're getting paid every single day—but not always in dollars.In this episode, I challenge the traditional view of compensation in the multifamily industry. We've all been wired to think payday is Friday and ROI is about cash—but what if the real dividends are silent, hidden in every rep, every customer interaction, every challenge solved?Here's what we unpack:Why leaders miss the true return on daily workHow to reframe value creation through skill, character, and consistencyThe three steps you can use to identify, coach, and embed non-cash ROI into your cultureAnd why long-game thinking is your superpower in building high-impact teamsThis isn't fluff. It's a mindset shift that will change how you show up and how you lead. Because when you treat every action as an investment in your future self, the bank account eventually catches up.

Is cutting someone off a sign of passion—or is it just plain rude?In this episode of Multifamily Collective, we're tackling a subtle but critical leadership habit: listening. When someone is interrupted mid-thought, it's not just frustrating—it can derail creativity, shut down collaboration, and trigger disengagement.Great ideas need space to develop. If a team member gets cut off before fully expressing an idea, the entire conversation loses the opportunity to evolve into something better. Worse yet, repeated interruptions can cause quieter voices to withdraw entirely.Leadership Challenge:✔️ Pause. Let people finish.✔️ If someone is cut off, step in and invite them to complete their thought.✔️ Set a culture where every voice is respected.Your next great innovation might be one unspoken idea away.How do you handle interruptions in your meetings? Drop your thoughts below!

Are you unknowingly holding your multifamily business back?In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, we unpack the unforeseen cost of a fixed mindset and why it's one of the biggest threats to your leadership and organization.Inspired by Carol Dweck's groundbreaking work on fixed vs. growth mindsets, we explore how routines and ruts can lead to stagnation, while an open, curious approach fuels innovation, engagement, and success.✅ Why leaders often double down on outdated methods✅ How a “beginner's mind” unlocks fresh opportunities✅ The power of collaborative thinking to drive better outcomes✅ Actionable steps to audit your mindset and embrace changeIf you want to build a resilient, thriving organization, it starts with YOU. Be the leader who goes first.

Motivation doesn't die in one big moment.It dies in a thousand little frustrations.

Is AI really "enhancing" jobs, or is it a workforce disruptor in disguise?In this episode of Multifamily Collective, I challenge the popular hot take that AI isn't replacing jobs—it's just making them better. While that might hold true in the short term, the long game tells a different story. As AI and automation eliminate rote, routine tasks, the need for certain roles will inevitably shrink.The real conversation should be about how we prepare for this shift. Upskilling, reskilling, and guiding talent into meaningful opportunities—inside or outside an organization—is far better than fabricating unnecessary work.With AI evolving at an unprecedented pace, multifamily leaders must stop pretending this won't impact headcount. The future belongs to those who adapt.What's your take? Drop a comment below!

Want to know exactly where you'll be in five years?Look at your calendar.Not your dreams. Not your goals. Not your vision board.Your appointments.Most people think they're stuck because of bad luck, bad breaks, or bad timing. But the real problem? They don't control their time.

Motivation doesn't die in one big moment.It dies in a thousand little frustrations.

Mobile Digital Licenses (MDLs) are reshaping digital identity, and it won't be long before they transform the multifamily industry. In this episode of the Multifamily Collective, Mike Brewer explores how MDLs could streamline self-touring, resident access, and fraud prevention—creating a frictionless experience for both prospects and operators.

Today, we're talking artificial intelligence, multifamily efficiency, and the future of thinking machines.Mike Brewer shares insights from A Thousand Brains: A New Theory of Intelligence by Jeff Hawkins—a book that explores how AI today is far from true human intelligence. Right now, AI solves specific, pointy problems—automating tasks, streamlining workflows—but we're still miles away from Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) that truly thinks like a human.

The multifamily industry is navigating stubborn economic headwinds—rising interest rates, inflationary pressures, and deal flow stagnation. While some adopt a survival mindset, the real opportunity lies in resilience, precision, and operational excellence.In this episode of the MultifamilyCollective, we discuss why slashing budgets and cutting corners isn't the answer and how strategic decision-making can position your organization for the next wave of growth. Now is the time to refine your operations, leverage data, and rally your team to build a stronger, more efficient business.

Big Data is changing the game in insurance and underwriting—whether it's car, home, or renter's insurance. And guess what? If you think you're flying under the radar, think again.Your social media habits, driving behavior, and smart home devices are all feeding into algorithms that insurance companies use to assess risk—and price your policies accordingly. Your car, your thermostat, even your Ring doorbell are gathering data that could determine how much you pay.And if you try to opt out? That might cost you even more.But it gets exciting here: the same data-driven decision-making is creeping into Multifamily real estate. From PropTech solutions to property management systems, the industry is leveraging AI, machine learning, and NLP to shape everything from tenant screening to vendor partnerships and talent acquisition.Are we heading toward a future where algorithms dictate every aspect of decision-making? And what does that mean for fair housing, compliance, and consumer privacy?Let's break it all down in this episode of MultifamilyCollective.