Episodes

  • 02 - Why Multifamily Leaders Needed a Peer Community for Utility Strategy
    Jan 20 2026

    In this episode, Mary Nitschke welcomes Lori Hanson, a seasoned professional in the multifamily industry, to discuss the rapidly evolving energy market and the importance of utility management. Lori shares her journey from starting in onsite leasing to becoming a director at Greystar, emphasizing her passion for utility management that began unexpectedly about a decade ago. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding utility management in today's market, especially as energy prices fluctuate dramatically, impacting operational costs for businesses. Lori also introduces the Utility Management Advisory (UMA), a peer group dedicated to professionals in utility management and sustainability. She explains how UMA fosters a supportive network for sharing knowledge and experiences, and discusses the annual UMA Sustainability and Innovation Award, which recognizes excellence in utility management initiatives. The episode wraps up with insights on the value of community and collaboration in the multifamily industry, encouraging listeners to engage with UMA and explore the benefits of being part of such a network.


    This episode is brought to you by EnergyCX. Energy CX is a modern energy strategy firm built for volatility. We combine data, technology, and real market expertise to help businesses take control of one of their largest—and most unpredictable—operating costs. With more than 2 billion square feet under management across 20+ deregulated states, we’ve backtested and proven that our strategy consistently outperforms traditional procurement. Powered by ABEL™, our proprietary decision engine, we buy energy with the same discipline and timing as a trading desk—giving companies clarity, stability, and a long-term strategic advantage in every energy decision.


    To Learn More: here.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Lori Hanson and Her Background

    04:21 Journey into Utility Management

    07:16 The Utility Management Advisory (UMA) Overview

    10:24 The Value of Networking and Community in UMA

    13:31 Insights from the Energy Summit and UMA Award

    16:40 The Growth and Impact of UMA


    🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at www.multifamilymedianetwork.com to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!


    #CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

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    22 mins
  • 01 - Energy as the New Amenity: Markets, Resilience, and the $21T Grid Opportunity
    Jan 12 2026

    In this conversation, Mary Nitschke and Michael Beckerman discuss the current state of utilities and sustainability in the multifamily real estate sector. They explore the challenges posed by climate change, the opportunities for innovation in energy management, and the importance of resiliency in building assets. The discussion highlights the role of the private sector in driving solutions and the potential for significant financial gains in the transition to cleaner energy sources.


    This episode is brought to you by Public Grid. https://publicgrid.property/?utm_source=MMN&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=theutilityroom


    Public Grid helps multifamily operators see what’s normally invisible, simplify sustainability, and create better resident experiences — without adding operational burden.We bring visibility into property and portfolio-level utility usage that’s historically been opaque, give operators RECs and sustainability credit when residents choose greener energy, and make it easy for residents to sign up in just three easy steps — saving money and hours of effort.The result? Happier residents, cleaner data, and smarter decisions — all without changing how you operate your properties.


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    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to the Utility Room and Guest
    02:43 Current State of Climate Tech and Sustainability
    08:19 Opportunities in the Built Environment
    14:16 Resiliency and Energy Demand
    20:49 Innovation in Construction and Materials
    24:27 UTILITY ROOM OUTRO.mp4


    🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations!

    📰 Sign up at Multifamily Media Network www.multifamilymedianetwork.com to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!


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    #CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

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    25 mins