Multifamily Leaders Podcast Episode 49: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Considerations for Multifamily with Christina Rodriguez

Christina Rodriguez is the creator and founder of Latinas with Masters, as well as a former marketing manager within the multifamily industry. Her mission is to be a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion as she empowers future generations of leaders to be their authentic selves. Listen in to hear her insights for how companies can embrace and implement a culture of diversity, how to respond to racially charged reviews, and the benefits of mentorship.

“I look to see, who is this person? Who holds this title? And what did they do to get there?"

Mindy Price and Christina Rodriguez begin their conversation by discussing Christina’s experience as a property manager, marketing manager, graduate student, and creator of Latinas with Masters, a foundation focused on elevating and encouraging others like her. Christina works to promote a culture of belonging and equal opportunity, and she notes the great diversity found within multifamily. She offers her advice for DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) training within the multifamily space, for it is crucial to consider how residents and team members feel and create an inclusive environment from the top down.

Mindy also asks Christina to weigh in on the increase in negative, racially charged reviews related to multifamily communities. Christina acknowledges that the angst is there among residents, but she encourages an empathetic approach to responding with the goal of a shared resolution. She notes that many times the reviewer was simply having a bad day and will often remove their negative review once they feel they have been heard.

Lastly, Christina and Mindy discuss mentors and tips for establishing mentorship programs. Christina’s mentors range from her parents, who emigrated from Nicaragua and taught her to have a strong work ethic, to professional colleagues and other Latinas who have created a pathway to higher education. She recommends establishing a mentorship program comprised of diverse individuals who have a story to tell and who others can connect with via shared journeys.