Beyond the Resume

In this Gratitude Throwback episode of Beyond the Resume, host Chris Papa revisits a powerful conversation with Timothy Henkel, SVP and Partner at Pennrose, one of the nation’s leading affordable housing developers. Recorded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the episode explores Tim’s winding career path—from civil engineering to affordable housing development—and the deep sense of purpose that has defined his more than 20 years at Pennrose.Tim offers an inside look at how affordable housing development works, including how Low-Income Housing Tax Credits are awarded, why competition for them is so intense, and how developers must align public policy, community needs, and financial feasibility. He shares stories of complex projects, including a transformative redevelopment in Meriden, Connecticut, and discusses the role of collaboration with municipalities, nonprofits, and residents.Throughout the conversation, gratitude emerges as a central theme: gratitude for partners, mentors, communities, and the opportunity to do work that genuinely improves people’s lives. Tim reflects on why affordable housing is foundational to health, stability, and opportunity—and why so many people in the field see it as their life’s work. The episode closes with personal reflections, career advice, and a reminder that empathy and perspective matter just as much as technical skill.Chapters(01:06) Meet Tim Henkel and an overview of Pennrose’s history and growth(03:58) Affordable housing vs. market-rate development and how tax credits shape projects(08:47) Competing for Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and navigating public policy(11:04) Community resistance, consensus-building, and where affordable housing gets built(13:26) A standout project: Meriden, Connecticut and the power of collaboration(20:36) Why affordable housing is life’s work and its impact on residents’ health and stability(32:39) Tim’s career journey, gratitude for partnership, and advice for future developersYouTube: https://youtu.be/_3KoZIHZQvwSpotify: https://bit.ly/beyondtheresume-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9

In this Gratitude Throwback episode of Beyond the Resume, host Lisa Flicker sits down with Carl Shannon, who spent 26 impactful years at Tishman Speyer before shifting his focus to teaching, civic engagement, and giving back to the San Francisco community. Carl reflects on the unexpected breaks that shaped his career, the mentors who guided him, and the philosophy that kept him grounded through economic cycles and major development projects.They discuss serendipity, authenticity, long-term commitment, and why gratitude is a crucial professional skill — especially for young people entering real estate, development, or any career where relationships matter. Carl also shares insights on today’s market cycles, how to build a meaningful career, and why stepping into a life of service is his next chapter.Chapters(02:15) The Serendipity of Career Breaks – A chance meeting at Salomon Brothers leads to a pivotal opportunity and launches Carl into real estate.(06:36) Early Lessons & Advice for Emerging Professionals – Be flexible, choose people over prestige, and be ready to “dig ditches” on day one.(09:55) Why Loyalty Matters More Than Job-Hopping – Carl explains how long-term commitment led to deeper skills, trust, and opportunities.(13:08) Cycles, Setbacks & Career Pivots – What he learned navigating downturns, including the early ’90s when development halted.(15:19) The Big Reveal: Retirement & Reinvention – Carl opens up about leaving Tishman Speyer, his love for San Francisco, and redefining purpose.(21:19) The Future of Office & Housing Development – A grounded look at where the market is headed and why housing demand will persist.(24:51) Legacy Projects, Mentorship & Building Teams – From Mission Rock to assembling diverse teams, Carl reflects on the work that mattered most.YouTube: https://youtu.be/qMSizzGgsWMSpotify: https://bit.ly/beyondtheresume-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9

In this special Gratitude Series episode of Beyond the Resume, hosts Chris Papa and Lisa Flicker sit down with Daniel Carr, Co-Founder of Alpaca Real Estate, to explore career pivots, entrepreneurial risk-taking, and the future of innovative real estate investing.Dan walks us through his journey from Brooklyn Tech to JPMorgan, Ares, and eventually launching Alpaca Real Estate—a platform built on trust, long-term relationships, and the power of integrating real estate with climate tech and innovation.You'll hear how Dan identified a once-in-a-generation investment opportunity, the importance of choosing the right business partner, lessons from mentors, and how passion and grit shape great teams. Dan also shares insights on EV charging infrastructure, industrial distribution, built-to-rent trends, and creating positive community impact through thoughtful development.Perfect for anyone interested in real estate private equity, career growth, entrepreneurship, or understanding how technology is reshaping the built environment.Chapters(01:55) From JPMorgan & Ares to Entrepreneurship(07:40) Spotting a Once-in-a-Generation Market Opportunity(09:22) Launching Alpaca Real Estate & Choosing the Right Partner(10:50) Innovation in Real Estate: EV Charging & Climate Tech(16:36) Power Constraints, Land Strategy & Industrial Distribution(21:25) Brooklyn Roots, Career Evolution & Early Influences(24:59) Advice for Students, Internships & Skill Development(27:14) A Day in the Life: Family, Work & Building a Firm(31:04) Community Impact Project in Brooklyn & Long-Term VisionYouTube: https://youtu.be/iwk8j5LUib4Spotify: https://bit.ly/beyondtheresume-spotifyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9

In this episode, we visit our conversation with Michelle Militello, the Vice President, Equity Asset Management at The Community Development Trust. Michelle shares her extensive background in affordable housing, detailing her transition from banking to community development. She emphasizes the importance of asset management in preserving affordable housing and discusses the skills necessary for success in the industry. Michelle also highlights her commitment to mentoring women in affordable housing and reflects on the leadership lessons she has learned throughout her career.Chapters(02:03) Career Path: From Banking to Affordable Housing(12:34) Role at Community Development Trust (CDT) and Its Mission(18:58) The Importance of Asset Management in Affordable Housing(22:45) Skills for Success in Affordable Housing(31:23) Mentorship and Leadership Lessons(36:02) Conclusion and Future CollaborationsMichelle Militello brings a rich, personal history to her work in affordable housing, a field she entered after transitioning from a career in banking to community development. Shaped early on by her family’s connection to real estate, and strengthened through formal education—including an MBA—Michelle has developed a deep understanding of the sector, especially the vital role asset management plays in preserving long-term affordability. At the Community Development Trust (CDT), she is driven by a clear mission to protect and preserve affordable housing across the country. She speaks often about the importance of mentorship, particularly for women navigating the industry, and models the power of genuine, values-driven leadership. Above all, Michelle’s passion for collaboration fuels her work, reinforcing her belief that the most meaningful progress in affordable housing comes from working together.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/up3jgFm5Xe0 • Spotify: https://bit.ly/4oUQ62rIn this episode, Jamie Smarr, CEO of the New York City Housing Partnership, joins Chris Papa to explore how affordable housing can revitalize communities and empower residents. Jamie shares lessons from his 30-year career in government and nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the power of project management, writing, and mentorship. From the Bronx’s burning buildings to today’s homeownership initiatives, this conversation dives into the evolution of housing policy, the importance of innovation, and what keeps Jamie motivated to make housing more human.Chapters(02:50) The Origins and Mission of the Housing Partnership(05:29) Affordable Housing in Modern New York(07:57) Jamie Smarr’s Path from Government to Nonprofit Leadership(10:51) Skills That Build Careers (and Homes)(13:41) How Government Drives Housing Policy(16:19) Future Housing Challenges and Opportunities(19:05) Personal Insights and Career Advice(21:57) Memorable Projects and Impactful DevelopmentsYouTube: https://youtu.be/up3jgFm5Xe0Spotify: https://bit.ly/4oUQ62rApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9Web: https://www.jacksonlucas.com/podcast/jamie-smarr