Listen

Description

📄 Episode Summary

In this episode of the Student Housing Insight Podcast, host Wesley Deese welcomes John Barr for the fourth installment of the Tough Talks series. John interviews Willie Butler, principal at Empower Property Management Consulting, a seasoned expert in the student housing industry known for his book “Releasing” and his work as a "leasing assassin." The conversation dives into the importance of returning to fundamental leasing practices, the pitfalls of over-relying on technology, and the value of humility in addressing leasing challenges. Willie shares his spicy take on the industry, emphasizing the need to focus on grassroots marketing and training to solve occupancy issues. The episode also touches on memorable turn stories, the impact of pride in decision-making, and advice for young professionals starting in the industry. Additionally, Wes highlights upcoming industry events and strategies for operators facing leasing shortfalls, including leveraging short-term rentals.

🕒 Time Stamps

• 00:01:44 – Meet Willie Butler: Empower PMC & Leasing Assassin Origins


• 00:02:43 – Background and experience with Campus Crest, launching Empower


• 00:10:04 – Interview with Willie Butler Starts


• 00:13:03 – Willie’s “Spicy Take” on the Today’s Industry”


• 00:14:00 – The case for classics: Grassroots marketing and leasing fundamentals


• 00:16:01 – Willie's magic wish: eliminating pride in the industry


• 00:19:23 – Memorable turn story: Taking the team to Cabo


• 00:21:01 – Advice to younger self: Don’t romanticize the product over process


• 00:23:56 – Final reflections on Willie’s insights


• 00:25:31 – Vector Travel & STR options for fall


• 00:28:38 – Upcoming events: Shop Talk, BIZNOW Atlanta, NMHC Topgolf Fundraiser


• 00:32:38 – Preview of next episode with Jacob Koscher

💡 Sponsor Spotlight: Campus Technologies

Whether you're developing a new community or acquiring an existing one, Campus Technologies delivers robust internet and IT services tailored for student housing. With nearly 25 years of experience, their high-speed wired/wireless internet, combined with managed IT services, ensures operational excellence and satisfied residents.

👉 Learn more or download their white paper at: www.campustechnologies.com

🔗 Referenced Links & Resources:

• Student Housing Insight Events Page – https://www.studenthousinginsight.com/events

• Bisnow Student Housing Event – Atlanta, July 30 – https://www.bisnow.com/events/atlanta/student-housing/atlanta-student-housing-summit-8990

• “Hi, How Are You” Project – https://www.hihowareyou.org

• NMHC Student Housing Conference – https://www.nmhc.org/meetings/calendar/shc/2025-nmhc-student-housing-conference/

• SHI's TopGolf Mixer 2025 - https://www.studenthousinginsight.com/events/2025topgolfmixer

• SHI: Vector Travel Episode - https://youtu.be/0T_mY1pyu18?feature=shared