The Community Effect: A NeighborWorks America Podcast

Episode 10: Beyond Housing: Holistic Approaches to Community Transformation & Investment

In this episode of The Community Effect, Marietta Rodriguez talks with Chris Krehmeyer, president and CEO of Beyond Housing, about the power of community partnerships in revitalizing St. Louis and Pagedale, Missouri. From affordable housing and education to local banking and food access, they explore how trust, innovation and long-term investment can drive measurable and lasting change.

Episode 9: Innovating for Impact: Nonprofit-Corporate Partnerships and Why They Work

"Innovating for Impact" explores how corporate-nonprofit partnerships fuel economic growth and housing equity. Guest Courtney Howard Hodapp of JPMorgan Chase joins host Marietta Rodriguez to discuss the trust, innovation and collaboration that define this 20-year partnership. Learn how intentional partnerships can drive meaningful change.  

Episode 8: A Roof Over Every Head: Expanding Access to Rental Housing

The need for affordable rental housing is greater than ever. How do we ensure a roof over every head?
In this episode of The Community Effect, NeighborWorks America President & CEO Marietta Rodriguez speaks with Linda Mandolini, President of Eden Housing, about the challenges and solutions shaping the future of rental housing. From rising costs to zoning changes to financing strategies, they discuss how communities can expand access to safe, stable and affordable housing.
Listen now to learn how we can build a more inclusive housing future together.

Episode 7: Building Community and Opportunity: A Conversation with Darryl Smith

How does an actor-turned-community developer transform housing access in Seattle? Join Marietta Rodriguez as she sits down with Darryl Smith, CEO of HomeSight, to explore his unique journey and the creative ways HomeSight is breaking down barriers to homeownership. From innovative lending models to anti-displacement policies, hear how HomeSight is making an impact in one of the country’s most expensive housing markets.

Episode 6: The Future Now (Part 2)

In the second installment of “The Future Now,” Marietta Rodriguez continues her conversation with Chris Herbert of the Harvard Joint Center on Housing and Michael Butchko of NeighborWorks America. They discuss NeighborWorks’ new strategic plan, the pressing need for affordable housing, and emerging innovations in supply, financing, and cross-sector partnerships. From social housing to modular construction and shared equity, the episode explores what’s next for housing and community development in 2025 and beyond.

Episode 5: The Future Now: Forecasting Strategies for Community Building and Affordable Housing in 2025 and Beyond (Part 1)

In this insightful episode of The Community Effect, host Marietta Rodriguez, President and CEO of NeighborWorks America, is joined by Chris Herbert from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies and Michael Butchko of NeighborWorks America to explore the trends and challenges shaping the future of housing and community development. Reflecting on 2024’s milestones, they discuss the growing affordability crisis, innovative policy responses, and NeighborWorks’ impactful initiatives, including partnerships and training programs. Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies to navigate the complexities of 2025, and don’t miss Part 2 for a deeper dive into NeighborWorks' strategic vision for lasting change.

Episode 4: Dreams to Deeds: Real People, Real Homeownership Stories

Homeownership can transform lives and communities. In this episode of "The Community Effect," explore the challenges and opportunities surrounding homeownership and learn how organizations like Housing Resources Inc. provide vital support and advocacy to make this dream a reality for more people.

Episode 3: Turning the Key: Bridging the Wealth Gap in Homeownership

Navigating the path to homeownership can be challenging, especially in today's market. In this episode of The Community Effect, Marietta Rodriguez and Jason Peterson delve into the hurdles first-time homebuyers face, including rising costs and racial disparities.  Discover how NeighborWorks provides vital resources like down payment assistance programs and financial counseling to empower individuals and families on their journey to homeownership.

Episode 2: Thriving Together: Comprehensive Community Development

Discover how this resident-driven approach fosters collaboration, builds strong partnerships, and promotes equity to create lasting change.  Hear inspiring success stories and gain valuable insights into the future of community development. Join Marietta Rodriguez and Elizabeth Druback Celaya as they delve into the power of Comprehensive Community Development (CCD). Don't forget to check out the Case Studies Elizabeth mentioned during the episode! 

Episode 1: Laying Out the Blueprint: This is NeighborWorks America

Journey back to the origins of NeighborWorks America and discover how a resident-led movement in 1970s Pittsburgh sparked a nationwide revolution in community development. Hear from pioneering leaders Joan Straussman Brandon and Steve Tuminaro as they share inspiring stories of transformation reflect on the organization's evolution and offer invaluable advice for those passionate about creating thriving communities. This is the Community Effect, hosted by Marietta Rodriguez.