WAHNcast

In this episode of "WAHNcast," host Katessa Archer interviews Bob Simpson, founder of the Multifamily Impact Council. They discuss the council’s mission to promote affordable and sustainable housing, the financial viability of affordable housing, and the importance of impact investing. Bob shares insights on industry challenges, the need for streamlined processes, and the value of diverse leadersh...

In this thought-provoking episode of WAHNcast, hosts Angie Truitt and Mark Shelburne sit down with Dr. Gregg Colburn, co-author of Affordable Housing in the United States, and Emila Sutton, Director of Housing and Neighborhoods for the City of Raleigh, to explore how research, policy, and on-the-ground leadership intersect in the fight against homelessness. Together, they bust common myths, unpack...

New Episode of WAHNcast is live! In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Christina Ott, COO of Rural Housing Developers, to explore the critical role rural communities play in the affordable housing landscape. Christina shares her inspiring personal journey—starting in a USDA-assisted unit at age 19—and now leading efforts to preserve and rehabilitate affordable housing across Missouri, Ok...

In this episode of "WAHNcast," host Angie Truitt discusses rising insurance costs in the affordable housing sector with Nikki Freyman, Senior Asset Manager at Enterprise Community Partners. They focus on the financial strain these costs place on providers, particularly in disaster-prone areas like the Gulf Coast. Nikki shares insights on the trends, challenges, and potential solutions, including r...

In this special episode of WAHNcast, we dive into the world of affordable housing law with attorneys Angie Truitt, Jennifer Merlo, Andrea Steel, and Mark Shelburne. Whether you're a student exploring your path or a practicing lawyer curious about mission-driven work, this episode is packed with real talk and valuable insight about how law intersects with housing.

Did you know that 42% of employees feel uncomfortable with workplace political discussions? In our most recent WAHNcast "Asking for a Friend" episode, we tackled this very issue. We discussed how setting boundaries, practicing self-awareness, and understanding company policies can help navigate these tough conversations. Seeking support from professional networks or a mentor can also provide valua...

Hear from the leaders of the original North Carolina chapter

In our latest episode of WAHNcast's "Asking for a Friend", we dive deep into a listener's experience with workplace bullying and discrimination. One key takeaway? Document everything! Dates, comments, and patterns of behavior can be invaluable if you need to escalate the issue to HR.  The discussion is one you can't miss if you've ever had conflict in the workplace, or if you want to know how to s...

In this episode of WAHNcast, co-host Angie Truitt chats with Ashley Northcutt, President and CEO of the Women's Affordable Housing Network (WAHN). Ashley passionately discusses WAHN's rapid growth and the upcoming National WAHN Summit. They highlight the Summit's inclusive environment, diverse programming, and networking opportunities designed to empower women in the affordable housing industry. F...

Meet Monyka Chan, one of WAHN’s Quadel Summit Scholarship winners and alumni liason to Columbia University's Chapter of WAHN! Her journey from Cambodia to Columbia University to NYC affordable housing is nothing short of inspiring.  In this episode, Monyka shares how she discovered WAHN through a WAHNcast episode, how she overcame financial challenges as a first-generation college student, and her...

The Women's Affordable Housing Network is proud to honor Lori Little as the very first recipient of our Lifetime Achievement Award—an award created in her name to recognize a career of dedication, leadership, and impact in affordable housing.  Lori’s unwavering commitment to making housing accessible, her mentorship of future leaders, and her ability to "smell the right opportunities" (yes, she re...

This Women's History Month, we celebrate the legacy of Babbie Jaco, a powerhouse in affordable housing whose journey from secretary to CEO is nothing short of inspiring. In this special WAHNcast episode, Babbie shares her incredible career story—growing a company from three employees to over 550, navigating the industry’s evolution, and leading with both heart and grit. Now in retirement (but busi...

We got to sit down with Joy Horak-Brown, the unstoppable force behind New Hope Housing in Houston, Texas. Joy’s passion and leadership have redefined what’s possible in affordable housing, creating not just homes but opportunities for dignity, community, and stability. In this episode, we explore her incredible journey, groundbreaking projects, and the inspiring ways her team is tackling homelessn...

In this episode of WAHNcast, we sit down with Andy Williams, CEO of Rehab Warriors, to discuss his mission to empower veterans through careers in real estate development. From workforce training to revitalizing communities, Andy shares how Rehab Warriors is creating opportunities and transforming lives. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on impact, innovation, and the future of housing!

Jean Dahlquist joins us for a powerhouse conversation about networking, career pivots, and finding your place in affordable housing. From securing pigs at the Wisconsin State Fair to law enforcement in the Coast Guard to managing LIHTC deals across the West Coast—Jean's journey proves that curiosity, confidence, and connections can open unexpected doors.  Hear how she turned informational intervie...

In the inaugural episode of "Asking for a Friend," co-hosts Angie Truitt and Millie Hurt explore the complexities of career transitions during significant life changes, such as pregnancy. They address a listener's dilemma about whether to disclose her pregnancy during job interviews and whether to stay in a demanding job or seek a more family-friendly position. Drawing from their personal experien...

In this latest WAHNcast episode, technical experts Christina Rieck Loukas and Quin Seiler , shareholders at Winthrop & Weinstine, take a deep dive into the complexities of Year 15 issues in affordable housing. With decades of combined experience in construction and real estate litigation, Christina and Quin break down key red flags, legal strategies, and practical advice to help developers and...

Hear from the leaders of the original Florida chapter

We are thrilled to announce a very special episode of WAHNcast featuring the legendary Nan McKay! Known for her pioneering work in the housing industry, Nan shares her incredible journey from humble beginnings to building a thriving company that now has over 1,000 employees. With stories of her early career, working 17 different jobs, including a flight attendant and cocktail waitress, to her lead...

Kimberlee Schreiber is a trailblazing woman on the executive leadership team at The Michaels Organization.  Kimberlee’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Starting as a leasing agent, she rose to become President of one of the nation's top management companies. Her leadership is rooted in empowering others, with over 300 teammates promoted in just the last year under her guidance!  In this epi...

This week on WAHNcast, we're thrilled to spotlight Delicia Gunn, Founder and CEO of Indigo Engineered and Hempselation LLC.  Delicia shares her remarkable journey from her roots in Baton Rouge, inspired by her childhood friend's battle with cancer caused by environmental toxins, to becoming a trailblazer in sustainable engineering. Her latest venture, Hempselation LLC, is revolutionizing the const...

We're thrilled to announce our latest episode featuring none other than Cindy Prater,  Alabama WAHN President and our WAHNderful Woman of the Year! Cindy's passion for affordable housing shines in this heartwarming and inspiring conversation. From her journey into the industry to building an unstoppable chapter, Cindy embodies leadership, generosity, and the spirit of community.  Listen in as Cind...

We're excited to introduce Wendy Tamis Robbins in our latest WAHNcast episode! Wendy is an inspiring advocate for mental health, a seasoned attorney, author, and speaker who openly shares her journey of overcoming anxiety and finding peace. Wendy, our keynote at this past year’s WAHN Summit, brings her valuable insights on managing burnout, balancing career demands, and breaking the stigma around...

In honor of Veterans Day, we’re excited to share our latest WAHNcast episode featuring the inspiring Dominique Dove, Government Appellate Attorney with the U.S. Army JAG Corps and a powerful advocate for veterans and affordable housing! Join us for a deep dive into her journey championing equitable military policies, including groundbreaking changes in parental leave and support for women in the a...

We are beyond excited to bring you the latest episode of WAHNcast, featuring Katie Goar from Quadel Consulting. In this inspiring episode, Katie shares her journey from babysitting at age 12 to leading an innovative company at the forefront of affordable housing solutions. We dive deep into the importance of creativity, leadership, and work-life balance, including how Katie empowers her team to br...