5 Minutes With Michaels

Supporting the Mission: Rich Foster on Military Housing and Community Impact

Join host Matt Sullivan on this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels as he speaks with Rich Foster, Investment Manager and veteran, about his unique journey from Army officer to leading initiatives in military housing. Rich shares his personal connection to Michaels’ communities, overseeing renovations, new developments, and strategic dispositions to improve the lives of service members and their families. He also discusses co-leading the Veteran Employee Resource Group (VERGE) and his vision for innovative, future-ready military housing. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, service, and creating thriving communities.

Full Circle Service: Luis Ramos on Leadership and Military Housing at Pacific Beacon

Join host Cruz Rodriguez on this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels as he sits down with Luis Ramos, Facility Director at Pacific Beacon and a 2024 Facility Director of the Year for Michaels’ military portfolio. Luis shares his unique journey from growing up in a family HVAC business, serving in the Navy, and advancing through commercial building engineering to lead a military housing community. He reflects on the importance of valuing teammates, giving back to service members, and the rewarding moments that come from making a difference. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about dedication, leadership, and serving those who serve.

Creating Community & Advancing Inclusion: Tatiana Rodriguez’s Impact at Courtyard Apartments

Join host Courtney Zaccardi on this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels as she speaks with Tatiana Rodriguez, Social Service Coordinator at Courtyard Apartments in South Philadelphia and a 2024 Jackie Jones Award winner. Tatiana shares how she fosters meaningful connections between residents, bridges language barriers, and develops innovative intergenerational programs. She also discusses her approach to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and offers practical advice for creating a more inclusive community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about making a tangible difference in the lives of residents and the broader community.

Twin Power: Robin Gower & Courtney Zaccardi on Impact, Inclusion, and Michaels Milestones

Join host Jade Freehoff on this special episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels featuring fraternal twin sisters Robin Gower and Courtney Zaccardi, two of Michaels’ 2024 award-winning teammates. Robin shares her journey from temp admin to Corporate Teammate of the Year, offering insights on collaboration, career growth, and building strong relationships across teams. Courtney discusses her path to the Jackie Jones Award, her leadership in DE&I, and her dedication to fostering inclusive communities both at Michaels and beyond. Tune in for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about family, leadership, inclusion, and making a real impact - both in and out of the office.

Taking the Leap: Denise Samarripas on Building Community and Career Growth

Join host Jade Freehoff on this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels as she chats with Denise Samarripas, one of Michaels’ 2024 Community Managers of the Year. Denise shares her inspiring journey from starting with no prior experience to managing two properties and supporting her regional team. She reflects on the importance of teamwork, creating family-like communities, and her goals for continued growth - both personally and professionally. From finding joy in the details of her role to fostering meaningful connections with residents, Denise’s story is a testament to dedication, heart, and the power of taking a leap of faith.

Teammate Spotlight: Adrena Sheriff

Join host Robin Madison on this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels as she talks with Adrena Sheriff, Community Director at Villages of Fort Irwin in California and a 2024 Community Director of the Year. Adrena shares her 10-year journey with Michaels and over 30 years in property management, highlighting the passion and dedication that drive her work in military housing. She discusses fostering resident engagement, building strong teams, and creating communities where military families feel seen, supported, and valued. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, service, and making a meaningful impact every day. 

From Lease-Up to Leadership: Michelle Roody’s Community Impact

Join host Robin Madison on this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels as she chats with Michelle Roody, one of Michaels’ 2024 Community Managers of the Year. Michelle shares her inspiring journey from publishing NYC landlord-tenant caselaw to managing thriving communities at Century Sunrise, reflects on the challenges and rewards of her role, and highlights the real impact she makes in residents’ lives. Plus, get a glimpse into her passion for fishing and adventures off the clock. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about leadership, community, and finding joy in every moment.

Welcome Aboard: Gen Bauer, Michaels’ New EVP of Operations

In this episode of 5 Minutes With Michaels, COO Matt Sullivan sits down with Genevieve “Gen” Bauer, the new Executive Vice President of Operations. Gen shares her journey from aspiring sports broadcaster to multifamily housing leader, her passion for innovation and mentorship, and what drew her to Michaels. From her approach to leading diverse portfolios to her dedication to lifting lives, Gen offers insights on leadership, impact, and what she hopes to accomplish in her first year. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and get to know the newest member of the Michaels Leadership Team.

From Stylist to Regional Leader: Nitzia Chambers’ Michaels Journey

In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host Heather Luty sits down with Regional Property Manager Nitzia Chambers to discuss her incredible 24-year journey with Michaels. From starting as a temp to becoming a leader in affordable housing, Nitzia shares insights on career growth, time management, and the power of strong leadership. Plus, she reflects on winning a prestigious RPM Recognition Award at the 2024 Michaels Management Meetings. 

Designing for Impact: Architecture & Community with Josh Eckert

In this episode of 5 Minutes with Michaels, host James Haley sits down with Josh Eckert, Associate and Urban Designer at Urban Practice, to discuss the role of architecture in community development. Josh shares his journey from building homes in Indiana to designing transformative spaces for Michaels, including the groundbreaking unaccompanied enlisted housing project at Fort Irwin.