CACM CHAT - HOA LIFE
CACM Chat – HOA Life is a podcast that covers all aspects of homeowners association management, including stories, trends, legislative updates, and best practices. Hosted by Tom Freeley, CEO of the California Association of Community Managers, the show features insights from industry professionals and expert partners. It focuses on California-specific education and certification for community managers, addressing topics like changing laws, new technology, and workforce evolution. New episodes are released weekly.
Episodes
Different Communities, Same Crisis: Lessons Every Manager Can Use
When a crisis hits, the community may look different, but the challenges managers face often have more in common than you might think. From earthquakes and major water leaks to security concerns and extended power outages, community managers are often called on to lead, communicate and make critical decisions in uncertain situations.In this episode of CACM Chat: The HOA Life, we sit down
The Paper Collapse
The 2008 housing crisis left a lasting impact on the community association industry, exposing vulnerabilities that many HOAs and condominium communities had never faced before. From abrupt instability to the unraveling of improperly verified “robo-signatures” and unclear mortgage assignments, the effects reshaped the industry for years to come.On this episode of CACM Chat: The HOA Life po
Electronic Voting 101: What Every Manager Needs to Know
Electronic voting has officially been an option for California HOAs for a year. So, what have we learned? In this episode of CACM Chat: The HOA Life, we sit down with Noah Jackson, Founder and CEO of Third Party Voting, to revisit AB 2159 and explore how electronic voting is reshaping HOA elections. Noah breaks down the steps communities and managers should take before implementing e-voti
Women Who Lead: Growth, Service, and Community Management
In this week’s episode, Communications Manager, Celeste Huecias sits down with industry leaders Bonnie Basham, CAMEx, CCAM-PM.AA.CI, CAFM, and Adriana DaSilva, CAMEx, CCAM, for a conversation on leadership, industry involvement, and the evolving world of community management. Bonnie and Adriana share their experiences as women in leadership, what inspired them to serve on the board, and t
Polished or Overlooked? The State of Professionalism Today
In this episode of CACMChat: The HOA Life, host and communications manager, Celeste Huecias sits down with Jeff Farnsworth, CAMEx, CCAM-PM.ND, of Steward Property Services, Inc. to discuss the evolving state of professionalism in the community management industry.From the lasting impact of first impressions to the day-to-day habits that define a true professional, Celeste and Jeff explore
AI and the Future of CAM Marketing
AI is already changing how boards find and evaluate CAM firms—and it may be deciding who makes the shortlist before you even know you’re in the running.In this episode, host Celeste Huecias sits down with John Leuterman of Big Rock Marketing to break down all things AI—from tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity to how they’re reshaping marketing in our industry.From SEO and proposals to marke
The Role of a Community Manager: Then vs. Now
Join us for a special conversation as Communications Manager, Celeste Huecias, sits down with Karen Conlon, MCAM, CACM’s first CEO. The two will explore the evolution of community management over the decades. From the early days of managing associations and communities without the tech tools we rely on today, to the modern landscape shaped by software, social media, and ever-changing regu
Smart Start: How Managers Can Plan for a Successful Year
What does it really take to plan for a successful year—especially when the unexpected comes your way?In this episode, host Celeste Huecias of CACM sits down with Samantha Soogian, CCAM, Director of Management Services at the Community of Harbor Bay Isle Owners Association, to talk about the power of organization, strong planning, and the role teammates play in navigating the unexpected. F
Reflection, Resilience & Looking Ahead
As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the challenges, growth and resilience that defined this year for our community.In this special end-of-year holiday episode, we look back on the moments that mattered most — from the impact of the LA fires and the incredible compassion shown by our members to the education, advocacy and professional development efforts that
Finding Your Rhythm: Work-Life Balance Strategies
In this episode, we’re joined by Kylie Decker, CAMEx, CCAM from Powerstone Property Management, ACMC and a member of CACM’s Board of Directors, for an honest and timely conversation about what work–life balance really means in our industry today. Kylie shares her leadership perspective on how expectations around balance have evolved in recent years and why the community management world o
The Power of Appreciation
In this Thanksgiving-themed episode, we’re exploring the power of appreciation—and how simple recognition can strengthen community relationships, build trust and highlight the everyday moments that make this industry so special.Guest host, Celeste Huecias, CACM Communications Manager, is joined by Brittney Zaragoza, CACM’s Regional Assistant for Northern California. With years of experien
Leading with Excellence: How Leadership and Education Drive Client Satisfaction
In this episode of CACM Chat; The HOA Life, Celeste Huecias of CACM sits down with Victoria Gish, CCAM, a Vision Award recipient for Leadership and Educational Excellence, to explore what it truly takes to create lasting client satisfaction in community management.Together, they unpack how strong leadership and continuous education go hand-in- hand with building trust, improving communica
The Sh*t that Really Happens: Community Shockers Edition
In this episode of CACM Chat: The HOA Life, we dive into part two of The Sh*t That Really Happens: Community Shockers Edition. Host Celeste Huecias, Communications Manager at CACM, reunites with Robert Sides, CCAM-HR.LS, to unpack the wild, unbelievable and sometimes jaw dropping stories community managers face in the field.From unexpected, naked encounters to tough situations that test p
The Sh*t That Really Happens: Media Edition
In this episode, host Celeste Huecias, Communications Manager at CACM, sits down with Robert Sides, CCAM-HR.LS, from Regatta Seaside Homeowners Association, to dive into the wild world of media and management. From Tom Cruise-worthy characters to jaw-dropping news stories, they unpack the unpredictable (and sometimes unbelievable) moments that happen when community management meets the pr
Pathways to Certification: CACM’s New College Partnership
In this episode, host Celeste Huecias of CACM sits down with Pauline Madduma, CACM’s Director of Education & Credentialing, to share an exciting new opportunity in the world of community management education.CACM has partnered with Santiago Canyon College to launch a Community Management Program designed to prepare the next generation of industry professionals. Tune in to learn ab
Leadership Lessons from The Rob & Rob Show
This week’s episode of CACMChat: The HOA Life, guest host Alia Saouli of CACM dives deep into the world of leadership, mentorship, the importance of setting healthy boundaries in our industry and more. Joining the conversation are Robin Romo, CAMEx, MCAM-HR, and Robert L. Smith, MBA, CCAM-HR, who bring their insight, experience and practical advice to the table. Together, they share valua
Your CACM Roundup: Events, Legislation & New Faces
Join guest host and CACM Communications Manager, Celeste Huecias, for a quick roundup of all the latest news and happenings at CACM! From upcoming Fall Forums and our High Rise & Large-Scale Summit to Golf Trick-or-Tee events, legislative updates on AB 130 and a warm welcome to our newest team members—Celeste covers it all and more. Stay in the loop and get ready for another excit
When Insurance Gets Wild: A FAIR Plan Deep Dive
In this episode of CACMChat: The HOA Life, CEO Tom Freeley welcomes Charlotte Allen of Socher Insurance Agency, a HUB International Company, for a myth-busting conversation about the California FAIR Plan. Drawing on over 20 years in the HOA insurance industry and on her recent article on the topic, Charlotte breaks down what’s changed, what’s misunderstood and what community managers real
Grief to Growth: Happy Minds Network Highlight
In 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
You Can’t Make This Stuff Up: The Sequel
We’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, h
Taking Chances and Tailoring Solutions: Small Business Highlight
In 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 curiou
Leading with Purpose: Inside the Role of a CACM Board Member
What 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
Ethics and Standards: Committee Insights
In 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 manageme
Inside CACM: What’s New in Education
Guest 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!Link
Meeting of the Minds: Podcast Edition
In 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
Experience vs. Newcomer: A Candid CACM Chat
In 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 in
Enneagram Energy in HOAs
In 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 homeown
Resident Realities: The Good, the Challenging & Everything in Between
In 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
The Power of Education
In 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
Mastering Safety, Security and Sanity
In 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 c
LA Fire Recovery Insights: Tips from a Legal Standpoint
In 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 inva
Mental Health Support Amid the LA Fires
In 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, D
From Ashes to Action: Special LA Fire Episode
In 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 recover
Beyond Resolutions: Embracing Goals, Progress and the Power of Small Wins
Guest 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 goa
Last Episode of 2024: Sharing Good Tidings
CEO 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 Depar
Hoarding in HOAs: Managing Cluttered Spaces and Diverse Personalities
Guest 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
The 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 Sh
Finding Gratitude Amidst the Chaos
This 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 imp
A “Leader” Is More Than a Title
CEO 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
Everything You Need to Know About the Corporate Transparency Act
The 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 Presid
Guest Host Alia Saouli Tackles Health & Wellness of Buildings and Community Managers
This 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
Small Business Spotlight with Laura Hurtado
The 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 a
Why Reserve Funds Matter and How to Adequately Budget for Them
Homeowners’ 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 mort
New 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
New 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 (El
You Can’t Make This Stuff Up: Funny HOA Stories with Tom
The 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.
Word 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
Fire, Flood or Blood – Dealing with Disasters at HOAs
California’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
Watch Out for Burnout! Tips to Stay Sane and Happy as a “Personality” Manager
Burnout 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
The Story of CACM, Our Hosts, and What to Expect
Who 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
TRAILER: WELCOME TO CACM CHAT - HOA LIFE
CACM 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 throu
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