Shows
CACM CHAT - HOA LIFEGrief to Growth: Happy Minds Network HighlightIn this episode, guest host Celeste Huecias sits down with Karen Kokowicz, CCAM, President and Owner of Coro Community Management & Consulting, to explore the heartfelt journey behind the creation of Happy Minds Network, a peer-to-peer support group built by and for CID managers.With nearly 30 years in the industry, Karen shares how personal loss, professional insight and a desire for connection inspired her to build a space where community managers can find encouragement, empathy and collaboration. Her career has spanned portfolio management, on-site leadership, company ownership and service in key industry roles, including as co-chair of CACM’s...2025-07-2947 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEYou Can’t Make This Stuff Up: The SequelWe’re back with another round of you’ve-got-to-be-kidding-me HOA stories! From emotional support chickens and elephant birthday requests to a homeowner who thought the HOA was a scam, these real-life manager submissions prove that truth is definitely stranger than fiction. CACM’s Celeste Huecias shares some of your wildest stories of community management. These tales are full of laughs, head shakes and moments that’ll make you say, “Yep, been there.”Have a wild HOA story of your own? Email us at podcast@cacm.org, we just might feature it next time.Links & Resources:Visit us...2025-07-1517 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFETaking Chances and Tailoring Solutions: Small Business HighlightIn this episode, CACM’s Celeste Huecias chats with Maria Hernandez, MCAM, CCAM- PM, about her 20+ year journey in community management and the launch of her company, Tailored Management Solutions (TMS).Maria shares what inspired her to start TMS, the importance of honesty and humility in leadership, and why taking chances can open new doors in the industry. A must-listen for anyone curious about building a business with heart in the HOA space.Links & Resources:Visit us at www.cacm.orgTo listen to other podcast episodes, go to https://cacm.org/podcast/2025-07-0144 min
Shiny New Object - a Marketing PodcastEpisode 299 / Katherine Freeley / Boehringer Ingelheim / Head of MediaMarketing is changing: where we were trying to avoid bot traffic before, we're now increasingly having to optimise for AI and agentic systems instead. But, soon everyone's content will be similar, and it's where the human element will set us free, according to Katherine Freeley, Head of Media at Boehringer Ingelheim. Katherine comes back to the podcast five years since her last appearance, sharing why we should use AI to super charge our human capabilities and reflecting on how marketing has and will continue to change. 2025-06-1728 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFELeading with Purpose: Inside the Role of a CACM Board MemberWhat does it really mean to serve on the CACM Board of Directors? In this episode, host Tom Freeley sits down with Jeremy S. Wilson, CAMEx,CCAM, Vice Chair of CACM’s 2025 Board of Directors, for a candid conversation about board service, leadership and professional growth.From what inspired him to get involved to the day-to-day responsibilities of a board member, Jeremy shares how serving has shaped his career and why contributing to our industry in a small way is essential to creating a larger impact for managers everywhere. Interested in applying? The deadline to submit yo...2025-06-1734 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEEthics and Standards: Committee InsightsIn this episode of CACMChat: The HOA Life, guest host Celeste Huecias is joined by Kathryn Henricksen, CAMEx, CCAM, for an insightful conversation on ethics and professional standards in the community management industry. Kathryn shares her journey in the HOA world, her role within CACM’s Professional Standards Committee and why ethics are the foundation of effective, trustworthy management.The pair dive into what the Professional Standards Committee does, how it supports integrity in the industry and review key elements of CACM’s Code of Professional Ethics and Standards. Whether you're a community manager, board member or just...2025-06-0334 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEInside CACM: What’s New in EducationGuest host Celeste Huecias from CACM sits down with CACM’s Educational Events Coordinator Korinna Peterson to talk about all things education. From current and upcoming events to ways to get involved, this quick episode has everything you need to stay in the know. Whether you're a manager or industry partner, tune in for a fast track to what’s happening in the world of CACM education!Links & Resources:Visit us at www.cacm.orgTo listen to other podcast episodes, go to https://cacm.org/podcast/Follow us on social media: @cacmchatLink...2025-05-2026 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEMeeting of the Minds: Podcast EditionIn this episode of CACMChat: The HOA Life, guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Tera Willis, CCAM, of Vintage Group Management and Amy Hawkins, CCAM, of Menas Realty Group for an honest, manager-to-manager discussion. With different levels of experience and working in separate regions, Tera and Amy bring diverse perspectives to shared industry challenges. From special assessments to electronic balloting and beyond, tune in for a realistic, relatable conversation that speaks to the everyday experiences of community managers across California—and you may gain some new insights and tips from your industry peers along the way....2025-05-0646 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEExperience vs. Newcomer: A Candid CACM ChatIn this week’s episode of CACMChat: The HOA Life, Alia Saouli and Celeste Huecias of CACM sit down and have a candid conversation about community management. This crash course episode dives into what the industry is all about, the kind of person it takes to thrive and how to find your place in this unique and rewarding field.With reflection on the years she managed, Saouli, shares with industry newcomer, Huecias, insight into real-life challenges, growth opportunities and resources available for you to connect and thrive in the field. Whether you're just starting out, simply curious or...2025-04-2232 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEEnneagram Energy in HOAsIn this week’s episode of CACM Chat: The HOA Life, guest host Alia Saouli sits down with Kendrah Kay, CAMEx, CCAM, of Powerstone Property Management to break down personality types in the industry. With the conversation centered around the Enneagram diagram, Alia and Kendrah explore how understanding personality types can help you highlight the strengths within your team, board or homeowner community—and how to better navigate those points of opportunity (as Alia likes to say).From Type 1 perfectionists to Type 9 peacemakers, this episode dives into how Enneagram awareness can elevate your leadership, communication and...2025-04-081h 02CACM CHAT - HOA LIFEResident Realities: The Good, the Challenging & Everything in BetweenIn this episode of CACMChat: The HOA Life, guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with board member, Kendrah Kay, CAMEx, CCAM of Powerstone Property Management, ACMC. The pair share candid conversation on the realities of managing HOA communities—and most importantly, the residents. From wild resident stories to valuable tips on handling tough situations, Kendrah offers serious insight from both a manager and leadership perspective. Whether you’re dealing with dream residents or nightmare scenarios, this episode is packed with practical strategies and relatable experiences. Don’t miss this must-listen discussion on navigating the good, the challenging and ev...2025-03-2543 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEThe Power of EducationIn this week’s episode, guest host, Celeste Huecias, of CACM sits down with The Management Trusts Diane Houston, CAMEx, CCAM, to dive into the key takeaways from the NorCal law Seminar and what to look forward to in SoCal. With over 35 years in the industry, Houston breaks down the executive track—a first for this year’s event— and why high-level discussions are essential. With SoCal Law Seminar kicking off this week, we also look ahead to the sessions, topics and trends that are shaping the industry. Whether you're attending in person or considering joining in the future, Houston...2025-03-1129 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEMastering Safety, Security and SanityIn this episode of CACM Chat: The HOA Life, guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Alfred Logan, CCAM-LS, of Spring Valley Lake Association, to dive into the critical topic of safety and security. Whether you're a large-scale manager or overseeing a smaller community, having a solid evacuation plan and security strategy is essential.With over 17 years of industry experience—and a career that began in the safety and security sector—Logan shares expert insights on protecting properties and ensuring the well-being of residents. But safety isn’t just about physical security; it’s also abo...2025-02-2535 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFELA Fire Recovery Insights: Tips from a Legal StandpointIn this special LA Fire edition of CACM Chat: HOA Life, we tackle one of the most pressing issues affecting community associations in California—the aftermath of wildfires. Join guest host Alia Souli of CACM as she sits down with Shant Karnikian, Esq., managing partner at Kabateck LLP, and an expert in complex litigation, including insurance and property damage claims. Shant provides invaluable insights on navigating insurance claims, understanding policy coverage and exploring legal avenues for recovery after a disaster. Whether you’re an HOA manager, board member or homeowner, this episode offers practical guidance on protecting your community and...2025-02-1152 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEMental Health Support Amid the LA FiresIn this special LA Fire episode, host Tom Freeley sits down with Dr. Diane Gehart, an award-winning psychotherapist, to explore the emotional impact of the recent LA fires. They discuss how victims can recognize when it’s time to seek professional help, cope with grief and uncertainty and take steps to rebuild resilience after such a life-altering event.With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Gehart also shares practical advice for supporting other managers or victims. Including using empathetic language, setting healthy boundaries and balancing empathy with self-care. Whether you're directly affected or looking for ways to he...2025-01-2434 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEFrom Ashes to Action: Special LA Fire EpisodeIn this special LA Fire episode, host Tom Freeley talks with Senior Professional Public Adjuster Steve P. Severaid about how victims of the LA County fires can begin rebuilding their lives. The devastating wildfires have impacted thousands of families, homeowners, business owners, HOAs and managers. With over 30 years of experience, Severaid offers practical advice on starting the recovery process, from keeping receipts and tracking expenses to accepting help. This episode aims to provide guidance for those affected and prepare other listeners for future disasters. For more information on ways to help, visit cacm.org/member-relief-la or email CACMmemberrelief@cacm...2025-01-1645 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEBeyond Resolutions: Embracing Goals, Progress and the Power of Small WinsGuest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Korinna Peterson, CACM Education Events Coordinator, to explore the pressure of New Year’s resolutions—or the decision to ditch them altogether. For community managers, the start of the year can feel overwhelming with so much already on their plate all the time. Instead of setting unrealistic resolutions, this episode focuses on achievable goals and celebrating small wins. With years of experience in the events industry, Peterson shares insights on being your own toughest critic, while emphasizing the importance of recognizing progress and having the courage to keep moving forward. Tune...2025-01-1424 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFELast Episode of 2024: Sharing Good TidingsCEO and host Tom Freeley brings some end-of-year holiday cheer and good tidings in this festive episode. One recent update that brings good news is on the Corporate Transparency Act. At the time of this recording, HOAs and managers responsible for filing on behalf of their client boards were relieved of the requirement to provide beneficial ownership information to the U.S. Treasury Department. Without our commitment to working together as a community, this change wouldn’t have been possible. Speaking of community, in 2024 CACM supported numerous charity organizations with your help. Including the Ronald McDonald House, Second Harvest Fo...2024-12-1710 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEHoarding in HOAs: Managing Cluttered Spaces and Diverse PersonalitiesGuest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Becky Jolly, CCAM, Senior Community Manager at Professional Association Services, to talk about dealing with hoarding in your communities. Hoarding is something that both you and the resident don’t intend for and especially don’t know how to navigate. With 20 years of experience under her belt, Becky dives into tips on dealing with the clutter while also remaining compassionate and understanding of homeowners (and not just with hoarding, but in every situation). Tune in for fresh insights on handling hoarding with empathy and learn how to manage both the mess...2024-12-1040 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEThe Calm Before the Storm (Season)Guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Shawn Hill of Storm Water Innovative Solutions to discuss the reality of storm water in Southern California. Though it may not rain much down here, community managers and homeowners should be aware of the potential damages of storm water. Storm water can affect not only your home but other belongings as well, such as a Volkswagen Bus (which Shawn shares). And with every unique property, there is a specific storm water filtration system to pair with it. Providing the proper maintenance and care to these systems can either make or...2024-12-0341 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEFinding Gratitude Amidst the ChaosThis week, guest host Alia Saouli of CACM talks about the importance of gratitude in everyday life. On a day-to-day basis, most people are thinking about themselves, their to-do lists, their families and more. But what if you could begin to rewire your brain just by expressing gratitude every day? Studies show that being more grateful and optimistic in the little things can ultimately improve your daily life. Tune in to hear some of Alia’s tips and tricks on gratitude this holiday season!--Links & Resources:Visit us at www.cacm.orgTo...2024-11-2615 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEA “Leader” Is More Than a TitleCEO and podcast host Tom Freeley talks about the qualifications and the qualities of leaders. Leaders set goals, provide guidance, surround themselves with talented people and have a clear vision for teams and organizations. A leader also is an influencer of people, who can coach a group to achieve a common goal, and who is willing and able to ask for help. Trust and communication are key. Difficult and tough decisions are part of the job. Embrace them! Listen in for more of Tom’s thoughts on leadership.--Links & Resources:Visit us at ww...2024-11-1918 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEEverything You Need to Know About the Corporate Transparency ActThe deadline to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act is quickly approaching (December 31, 2024). What does that mean for homeowners’ associations, which are included in the BOI reporting requirements of the act? Which communities are exempt? What must beneficial owners file with the Department of Treasury and what are the penalties for non-compliance? Dawn Bauman, Senior Vice President of Government and Public Affairs for the Community Associations Institute and Executive Director of the Foundation for Community Association Research, provides an update on the legislation and CAI’s lawsuit to exempt community associations. While CAI continues to work with the Federal Gove...2024-11-1238 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEGuest Host Alia Saouli Tackles Health & Wellness of Buildings and Community ManagersThis week guest host Alia Saouli of CACM sits down with Stephanie Romero of Aeroscopic Environmental to discuss all things health and wellness as it relates to community managers and the buildings they help look after. Tune in to listen to the topic of water damage like mold and how to look for signs. Plus, tips on how to prevent water damage and mitigate risk. Romero recommends insurance is reviewed and updated regularly to ensure proper coverage in the case of having to file a claim. In addition to keeping buildings in good shape, Saouli and Romero share ideas...2024-11-0525 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFESmall Business Spotlight with Laura HurtadoThe HOA industry is in a very active phase of consolidation with mergers and acquisitions. But even as larger management corporations take over longstanding medium and small businesses, newcomers are entering the scene. Host Tom Freeley sits down with Laura Hurtado, CCAM-PM.CI, who recently launched Synergy Management Group in San Diego. After working many years in the industry managing all types of communities—from onsite self-managed to high rise, large scale and commercial associations—Hurtado broke out on her own to start a small business. Hear about her journey to becoming an entrepreneur, and what she’s doing to set...2024-10-2938 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEWhy Reserve Funds Matter and How to Adequately Budget for ThemHomeowners’ associations should set aside anywhere from 15 to 40 percent of their annual budget to adequately fund reserves, says Reserve Specialist Matthew Swain. However, many boards and associations kick the can down the road and avoid setting aside money into their reserve fund because they don’t want to increase assessments. But if you treat reserves like an impound account on a mortgage, it will be easier for boards and associations to pay expenses when components fail or need to be replaced or repaired. In this episode, host Tom Freeley and Swain discuss how to approach a reserve budget, what a re...2024-10-2236 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFENew HOA Laws - The Good, The Bad, The OK (Part 2)In part two of this 2024 legislative update, community management executive Joseph Price weighs in on the balcony bill, the CID repair bill and the electronic voting bill, all which were recently signed into law. What now? How do you start to implement at the association level? It’s not going to be plug and play. Plus, the deadline to comply with the Corporate Transparency Act looms large and association boards have to act sooner rather than later. As it currently stands, there are no exemptions for homeowners’ associations. Take the time to learn about new legislation and the steps you...2024-10-1529 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFENew HOA Laws - The Good, The Bad, The OK (Part 1)The 2024 legislative season is over in California, but it was an action-packed thrill ride with many bills introduced that targeted common interest developments, or HOAs, in the state. Host Tom Freeley and attorney and CACM’s Legislative Advocate Jennifer Wada analyze the impact of three bills specifically: SB 900 (CID Repair and Maintenance), AB 2114 (Balcony Inspections) and AB 2159 (Electronic Voting). These were signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, with the balcony inspection bill becoming effective immediately. You will also hear about what went into defeating SB 1470, which was potentially very negative to the industry. Check out what goes on be...2024-10-0838 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEYou Can’t Make This Stuff Up: Funny HOA Stories with TomThe pink flamingo ban that turned into a temporary art installation at a community. A community manager that calls the authorities on a trespasser sleeping in the clubhouse, just to find out he’s the association’s board president. Plus, how a community manager tried to avoid serving a violation notice to Lorena Bobbitt. These are just some of the weird stories that will make you chuckle. You can’t make this stuff up! CEO and host Tom shares some of the crazy stories of managing and living in homeowners’ associations. You don’t want to miss this one!Links...2024-10-0110 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEWord to the Wise: Don’t Fake Your HOA Budget“Don’t fake your budget.” Hear this and other great advice from guest Lorena Sterling with Community Association Financial Services in Palm Springs. It’s budget season, so tune in for insights from Sterling on how to create and present an association budget. This episode also presents tips on how to read and present a financial statement to the HOA board. Hear about options for funding a budget deficit or a reserve project. “If your monthly dues aren’t increasing each year, be scared,” Sterling warns. You’ll walk away with best practices including paying attention to budget line items, how to fo...2024-09-2443 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEFire, Flood or Blood – Dealing with Disasters at HOAsCalifornia’s fire season is in full swing. CEO and host Tom Freeley talks about preparing for emergencies and natural disasters including fires, floods, earthquakes, landslides, storms, and more. In the HOA industry, the term often used is: Fire, flood or blood. Reserve funds can be easily or entirely wiped out to cover the cost of unplanned disasters. In an oceanfront LA community, more than 200 homes have had their gas and power cut off by a long-running ground shift, which is threatening utility lines. Most HOAs, however, have no formal plans or training to respond to disasters. Listen in fo...2024-09-1712 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEWatch Out for Burnout! Tips to Stay Sane and Happy as a “Personality” ManagerBurnout is a common symptom for community association managers, aka,Personality Managers, and it manifests both physically and mentally affecting job performance.Insomnia, digestive issues, grumpy mood are all signs of burnout. It’s hard to avoid when subjected to constant negativity and bullying from clients. Taking vacation, identifying stressors, working on time management, writing or verbalizing your frustrations, and seeking therapy areall ways to push through your daily work challenges. Host Tom Freeley and Co-Host Alia Saouli share their personal tricks to relieve stress and live your best life even during a busy season or...2024-09-1037 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFEThe Story of CACM, Our Hosts, and What to ExpectWho is CACM, what do we do and why are we launching a podcast? Our first episode gives you a glimpse of what our purpose is: to elevate the community association management industry by providing resources, education and certification to HOA managers in California and beyond. Learn about our host, CEO and industry veteran Tom Freeley, and what he will cover in future episodes including the reality of homeowners’ association management and what a community manager actually does every day. Plus, Tom’s story of how he and his wife volunteered for a gangster rap video, inadvertently. Also...2024-09-1019 minCACM CHAT - HOA LIFETRAILER: WELCOME TO CACM CHAT - HOA LIFECACM Chat – HOA Life where no HOA topic is off the table. We’ll bring you stories, trends, legislative matters and best practices in HOA management straight from the day-to-day professionals who work in the California community association management industry and the expert Industry Partners that serve HOAs. CACM was founded in 1991 to elevate professionalism in community management through California specific education and certification. Rapidly changing laws, new advanced technology, and an ever-evolving workforce. Geared toward the community association management industry. Tune in every week and make sure to follow us on our social channels @cacmchat. Hosted by industry vete...2024-08-2901 min
The HOA Pros Podcast#63 - Tom FreeleyTom Freeley, CEO of the California Association of Community Managers, joins us for a great discussion of the organization! Why it's unique, education, supporting managers, events, our industry!
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Shiny New Object - a Marketing PodcastEpisode 71 / Katherine Freeley / Colgate-Palmolive / Global Marketing, IMC Associate Director'Shiny New Object' is a podcast about the future of marketing. Each episode is a conversation with an insightful and influential leader in the industry about the latest tech, trend or talking point to catch their eye. Host: Tom Ollerton, Founder of Automated Creative. www.automatedcreative.net/podcasts2020-05-0137 min