The HOA Pros Podcast

In honor of National Mentorship Day, we’re celebrating the power of mentorship, professional growth, and the next generation of HOA industry leaders!

We’re joined by Anthony Rosales of Seabreeze Management Company, who shares how he found his way into the HOA industry, what it’s like being a newer community manager, and the experiences that have contributed to his success.

In a special moment of HOA gratitude, Anthony recognizes our very own Kara Foley, sharing the impact she’s had on his professional journey and the importance of having mentors who encourage, challenge, and believe in you.

We also tackle the big question: Will Anthony stay in the HOA industry for the long haul?

From unexpected career paths to meaningful mentorship, this episode reminds us that everyone starts somewhere, and sometimes one person believing in your potential can make all the difference.

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Are you using AI to its full potential, or just scratching the surface? This week on HOA Pros Podcast, Sean Patterson of CrossGen AI for an eye-opening conversation about moving beyond basic chats and putting AI to work.

Sean shares why successful adoption starts with people, education, and leadership, and why you can’t simply buy software and expect your team to transform overnight. From turning a handwritten to-do list into actionable help to describing problems in ways that unlock better results, this episode offers practical ideas for community managers, business partners, and anyone curious about AI.

Plus, we share an update on CAI-OC’s CAID project supporting Newland Park and the generosity helping make it happen.

In his HOA Gratitude moment, Sean thanks his wife for supporting his leap from corporate America into building CrossGen AI and his passion for helping people navigate this evolving technology. He also gives a shout-out to his two sons and the family dog!

Join us for laughs, fresh perspectives, and plenty of “Wait, AI can do that?” moments!

Learn more about Sean and CrossGen AI at https://crossgen-ai.com

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What separates a vendor from a true business partner?

We sit down with Christian Rovsek of Service First Restoration, Inc. to talk about what it really takes to build lasting relationships in the HOA industry. Christian shares his journey into the industry, a few memorable stories, and the lessons he’s learned about being proactive instead of reactive, mitigating liability and risk, and understanding what clients actually need.

From price vs. true cost and “go-do” work vs. the RFP process to the importance of understanding WIIFM (“What’s In It For Me?”), Christian shares his perspective on creating processes around the client rather than simply completing a scope of work.

And, of course, we wrap up with a little gratitude and a shoutout to Joe Price.

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On this episode, we sit down with Donald (Donny) Disbro of Communitas and Kelly Thomson of ARK & BHE for a conversation about where the HOA industry is headed.

We dive into acquisitions and company culture and tackle the big question: What will the HOA industry look like 20 years from now?

Donny and Kelly also share some great stories from their careers and take a moment to recognize the people who have made an impact along the way, sharing their gratitude for Catherine Laster and Rob Smith.

It’s a conversation about growth, culture, change, gratitude, and the future of our industry, with plenty of HOA Pros personality mixed in.

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This week, we sit down with Dave Rauch of ProTec Building Services, whose passion for extending the life of our communities comes through loud and clear.

Dave talks about his work with the Foundation for Community Association Research Think Tank and the newly released Built to Last: Strategies for Extending the Economic Life of Community Associations, including a new tool designed to help HOAs evaluate their economic life.

We also get into the importance of routine preventive maintenance, maintenance manuals, and planning for the long-term health of a community. Dave shares a special dedication to the late Tom Miller, a pioneer in construction defect litigation who helped pave the way for the maintenance manual.

And in true HOA Pros fashion, we end with gratitude. Dave recognizes Dawn Bauman and her vision for CAI and the community association industry.

Great conversation with someone who believes communities shouldn’t just be built, they should be Built to Last.

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What do Burning Man, structural engineering, rising HOA assessments, and the question, “Where does all the poop go?” have in common? They’re all part of our first-ever video episode of the HOA Pros Podcast! Dilip Khatri, PhD, SE, founder and principal engineer of Khatri International, Inc., joins us to discuss aging communities, reserve funding, structural inspections, condominium financing, and the real-world consequences of delaying essential repairs.

He also shares his gratitude for the volunteer board members who dedicate countless unpaid hours to their communities. In our HOA Gratitude segment, he gives special recognition to Andrea from the CAI Greater Los Angeles Chapter for her hard work and dedication to the industry. It’s informative, candid, and absolutely hilarious. Watch or listen now!

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We sat down with David Pyrzenski of CourtMatch for a great conversation about the important role recreational amenities play in creating thriving communities.

David shared his perspective on facilities management, the partnership between management and the board, and the unique demands that come with managing recreational facilities. We talked about how amenities can help build community and connection, as well as the importance of anticipating potential conflicts, identifying issues early and resolving them before they escalate.

We also learned how CourtMatch helps communities simplify amenity management, handling everything from amenity reservations and scheduling to community events and ticketing, all in one place.

And a special shoutout to Gina Duff, who David shared his gratitude for during the episode!

Another great conversation about the people, technology, and partnerships that make our communities better.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

This week, we’re joined by Cang Le and Deanne Cox, CMCA, AMS from Le Firm for a conversation that takes us from litigation to the courtroom and everything in between!

We talk about how they found their way into the HOA industry, some of the crazy stories they’ve collected along the way, and the people who have made an impact on their careers, including Annie Wyland and Lisa Silva.

If you work in community management, serve on a board, or just love a good courtroom story, you won’t want to miss this one.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

We’re joined by Seth Fenn of Cura Pest for a conversation that goes way beyond pest control!

Seth shares how he found his way into the HOA industry, a few crazy stories from the field, and how Cura Pest is using AI on the office and customer-facing side of the business. We also talk innovation, including laser technology for mosquito control, growth, and the lessons Seth has learned along the way.

And, of course, we wrap up with a little gratitude and a shoutout to Daniel Pawlak.

🐜 Pest control 🤖 AI & the customer experience 🦟 Lasers vs. mosquitoes 📈 Growth 😂 HOA industry stories

Another fun conversation!

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

What separates a good community manager from a truly exceptional one? Cody House, PCAM of Keystone joins us to share the fundamentals every community manager should master, whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience.

In this episode, we discuss the core skills that build successful managers, why owning your mistakes is one of the most valuable leadership traits, the importance of consistent follow-through, and why admitting you don’t know something can actually make you a stronger professional. It’s an honest conversation filled with practical advice and real-world experience for anyone in community management.

A special thank you goes to Gina Privitt and Eddie Leos for their professional support and the impact they’ve had throughout Cody’s career.

🎧 Tune in for actionable insights, leadership lessons, and a reminder that great community management is built on integrity, accountability, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

On this episode, we sit down with Adrian Baldieri and Brandon Rennick from Reconstruction Experts for a conversation that goes far beyond construction projects.

Together, we explore why community management and reconstruction are, at their core, a people business. Great projects don’t happen because of contracts alone. They happen because of trust, communication, and relationships built over time.

Get to know the faces behind Reconstruction Experts as Adrian and Brandon share their stories, what drives them, and the values that shape the way they serve communities. We also discuss the importance of educating community managers, boards, and homeowners so they can confidently navigate the reconstruction process and make informed decisions.

A special thank you to Suzy Reid, Courtney Slezak, and Brittany Kitts for their support and the meaningful relationships they’ve helped foster throughout our industry.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

Is AI coming for community managers…or is it becoming their greatest advantage?

In this episode we sit down with Scott Keesee of Vantaca to separate fact from fiction when it comes to artificial intelligence in the HOA industry.

Scott shares his journey into community management and gratitude for mentor Grant Wolfe before diving into one of the hottest topics in our industry: AI.

Together, we discuss:

Why AI should be part of every community manager’s conversation What AI is actually doing today in the HOA industry Why AI is a tool, not a threat How management companies can grow portfolios without increasing headcount The human side of community management that technology can never replace

Whether you’re excited about AI or skeptical of its role, this episode offers a practical, honest look at how technology can help managers work smarter while keeping people at the center of the business.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

ACCREDITED Fire Hardening Strategies for Pros This course is approved by the Community Association Managers International Certification Board (CAMICB) to fulfill (1) hour continuing education requirements for the CMCA® certification. www.camicb.org. Instructions to receive 1 Hour continuing education credit Listen to podcast and write down the numerical code that you will hear throughout the show Send numerical code to Kara@thehoaprospodcast.com Receive certificate for 1 C.E. Special thanks to: Matthew Boomhower and Susana Furlong of Southern Cross Property Consultants

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

We sit down with Jonathan Freed and Justin Breckenridge of SoCal Environmental Solutions to discuss the company’s journey from its roots in asbestos surveys to becoming a trusted resource for the HOA industry. The conversation explores the history and growth of SoCal Environmental Solutions, their role of CAID, and how environmental services continue to evolve to meet the needs of community associations. Jonathan also gives a special shoutout to the entire SoCal team for their hard work and dedication, while Justin shares his gratitude for Erik Barden and the impact he has had on his professional journey. Tune in for industry insights, company history, and the people who help drive their success.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

ACCREDITED Records, Requests and Regrets for Pros

This course is approved by the Community Association Managers International Certification Board (CAMICB) to fulfill (1) hour continuing education requirements for the CMCA® certification. www.camicb.org. Instructions to receive 1 Hour continuing education credit Listen to podcast and write down the numerical code that you will hear throughout the show Send numerical code to Kara@thehoaprospodcast.com Receive certificate for 1 C.E. Special thanks to: Scott Clements of Reserve Studies Inc. and Daniel Heaton of DeNichilo Law, APC.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

Join us as we sit down with Cory Neubauer of Nextier and Jamie Gould of Consult My HOA for an important conversation about advocacy, legislation, and the future of the HOA industry.

In this episode, we discuss:

✅ CLAC (California Legislative Action Committee) and the critical role it plays in protecting community associations

✅ “Buck-a-Door” and why industry participation and funding are essential to ensuring our voice is heard in Sacramento

✅ Pending legislation impacting HOAs and what community managers, board members, and industry professionals need to know

✅ What can you do right now?

Contact your Senator Get involved Stay informed Support advocacy efforts

🚨 Coming down the pipeline:

AB 1903 SB 1007 Additional legislative proposals that could significantly impact associations throughout California

If you’ve ever wondered how legislation affects your community, your board, or your profession, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Learn more and get involved at http://CAICLAC.com

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On this episode, we sit down with Ray Echlin and Jim Sattler of Design Build Associates for a candid conversation about the true value of experienced construction management in the HOA industry.

Ray and Jim share the legacy they are building through decades of industry experience, why community managers should not be expected to act as construction managers, and why boards need to bring in the right experts for complex projects and major decisions. The discussion also dives into the importance of the Business Judgment Rule and how board members can better protect their communities by relying on qualified professionals.

The episode is filled with real-world perspective, industry insight, and a few crazy stories along the way.

Most importantly, Ray and Jim express their gratitude for Dennis Brooks and for all the volunteer board members who dedicate their time, energy, and service to their communities every day.

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We’re diving in again to one of the most important (and time-sensitive) topics impacting HOAs across California… AB 1572.

Tia Fleming and Melissa Matlock from CalWEP join us to break it all down in a way that actually makes sense for managers and boards. From defining what non-functional turf really is, to sharing the go-to resource every community needs (nonfunctionalturfca.org), this episode is packed with practical guidance you can act on now.

We also take a moment to recognize Krista Guerrero and the Unsung Water Heroes who are doing incredible work behind the scenes in water conservation.

And here’s the reality check… 2029 is coming fast. Water will need to be shut off, fines up to $1,000 per day, and both state and local enforcement are very real. The question isn’t if—it’s whether your community is planning ahead or scrambling later.

If you manage or serve on an HOA board, this is one episode you cannot afford to miss.

Thanks to our sponsors! Platinum: https://www.24hrc.com https://www.globaldisposal.com https://www.pacificbackflow.com Studio: https://www.fentongrant.com Gold: https://www.propertycleaningexperts.com https://www.splashplumbing.com https://www.hoamailers.com https://www.themarchgroup.com www.abarcalandscape.com Silver: https://www.reservestudiesinc.com https://www.purposeroofs.com https://www.southerncrosspc.com https://www.alansmithpools.com https://www.votehoanow.com

On this episode, we sit down with Ryan Touchi of Property Cleaning Experts (PCX) to talk about his journey into the HOA industry and the path that led him to building a full-service exterior cleaning company. Ryan shares his appreciation for those who helped along the way, including a meaningful shoutout to Chris Booth, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to grow in this space.

We also dive into everything PCX offers, from rain gutters and window cleaning to holiday lighting and power washing. Ryan explains how their one point of contact model simplifies life for managers and boards, and why being actively involved in CAI, including serving on the social committee, is such an important part of staying connected in the industry.

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We’re joined by Anthony Abarca of Abarca Landscape a company that’s quickly making a name for itself by doing things differently and doing them right.

From their deep roots in the Inland Empire to their expansion into Orange County, Anthony shares how Abarca Landscape is bringing full service solutions to the table covering landscape maintenance, landscape construction, and more than you might expect.

We also highlight the CAI National Award for CAID, including how Abarca Landscape stepped up without hesitation to support Bishop Manor. It’s a great example of leadership, partnership, and showing up when it matters most.

So what really sets them apart? A simple but powerful mindset: make anything happen, anytime.

Tune in to hear the story behind the growth, the grit, and what’s next.

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