In this conversation, Mary Nitschke interviews Mike Zatz https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelzatz/, who shares his journey in the field of sustainability and energy efficiency. He discusses his extensive experience with the ENERGY STAR program and the importance of data in improving building performance. Zatz emphasizes the need for better engagement with residents to enhance energy efficiency and shares insights on the future of energy benchmarking and his new role at Measurable.
This episode is brought to you by PlugOps.
EV charging in multifamily doesn't have to be complicated. Plug-op is the expert, so you don't have to be.
As an end-to-end partner for multifamily portfolio owners and operators, PlugUp helps you launch charging programs that actually work. Starting with the planning phase, they provide the in-house research that powers their proprietary portfolio-wide intelligence reports, which determines exactly where chargers need to go and how many you truly need, all based on actual demand, local regulation, and available insights.
When it's time to build, Plug-Off delivers turnkey installation and software design specifically for the unique needs of apartment communities. And after launch, their real-time dashboard analytics shows you how to scale smarter and optimize pricing over time.
If you're looking to elevate your EV charging strategy, Plug Ops is with you every step of the way from day zero and beyond.
To Learn More: https://www.plugop.com/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sustainability in Real Estate
04:50 Mike Zatz's Career Journey
07:45 The Intersection of Data and Real Estate
10:40 The Future of Energy Benchmarking
14:02 Engaging Residents for Energy Efficiency
16:51 Transition to Measurable and Future Goals
🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations!
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#CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

In this engaging conversation, Mary Nitschke interviews Katie Rothenberg, https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-rothenberg/ a seasoned professional in sustainability and real estate. Katie shares her journey into the field, emphasizing the importance of understanding different perspectives in sustainability. The discussion delves into the business case for sustainability, highlighting its role in value creation and risk management in real estate. Katie also reflects on her significant wins and lessons learned throughout her career, underscoring the importance of empathy and thoughtful communication in driving sustainability initiatives.
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: https://www.energycx.com/?utm_campaign=32624679-MMN%20Podcast%20Sponsorship&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=brand-awareness
Chapters
00:00 Katie Rothenberg's Journey into Sustainability
06:39 The Business Case for Sustainability in Real Estate
13:03 Navigating the Challenges of Sustainability
14:50 Celebrating Wins and Learning Experiences
🔔 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 https://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

In this episode of the Utility Room, host Mary Nitschke speaks with Public Grid co-founders Zach Schmitz https://www.linkedin.com/in/zack-schmitz/ and Joe Robbins https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephrobbins5/ about their innovative approach to simplifying the utility setup process for residents, particularly in multifamily housing. They share their personal origin stories, the challenges of engaging residents in energy consumption, and how Public Grid aims to create equitable energy solutions that benefit both residents and property managers. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding energy costs and the potential for reducing environmental impact through better utility management.
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.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Public Grid and Its Founders
01:20 Origin Stories: How Public Grid Was Founded
04:35 The Utility Setup Process and Its Challenges
06:53 Connecting Utility Setup to Green Energy
08:32 Engaging Residents in Energy Consumption
11:22 Translating Energy Concepts into Resident-Friendly Language
15:24 Resident Reactions to Public Grid's Services
19:44 The Mission of Public Grid: Equity in Energy Costs
🔔 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

In this conversation, Mary Nitschke and Jacob Kosior discuss the intersection of EV charging, AI technology, and multifamily housing. They explore how AI can enhance efficiency in property management, streamline processes for residents, and address challenges in affordable housing. The discussion highlights the importance of time as a valuable resource and the potential for AI to improve both operational efficiency and resident experience. They also touch on the role of health and well-being in housing and the future trends in AI technology for the multifamily sector.

This episode is brought to you by PlugOps.

EV charging in multifamily doesn't have to be complicated. Plug-op is the expert, so you don't have to be.

As an end-to-end partner for multifamily portfolio owners and operators, PlugUp helps you launch charging programs that actually work. Starting with the planning phase, they provide the in-house research that powers their proprietary portfolio-wide intelligence reports, which determines exactly where chargers need to go and how many you truly need, all based on actual demand, local regulation, and available insights.

When it's time to build, Plug-Off delivers turnkey installation and software design specifically for the unique needs of apartment communities. And after launch, their real-time dashboard analytics shows you how to scale smarter and optimize pricing over time.

If you're looking to elevate your EV charging strategy, Plug Ops is with you every step of the way from day zero and beyond.

To Learn More: https://www.plugop.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI in Property Management
04:55 Jacob's Journey in Multifamily and AI
07:53 Enhancing Efficiency with AI Tools
10:47 AI's Role in Affordable Housing
13:45 Streamlining Processes for Residents
16:50 Health and Well-being in Housing
19:38 Future Innovations in AI for Housing

🔔 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

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

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

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