Welcome to episode 95 of Boss Talks! Join us as host Evan Happel sits down with the brilliant and compassionate Joy Arinze. They discuss how a simple comment on a social media post led to an inspiring conversation and a deeper connection. Joy, who recently left her role as Operations Initiatives Manager at Equity, has spent her career in multifamily and tech, offering valuable insights into program and product management. Joy shares her fascinating origin story, including her upbringing in Nigeria, her experiences managing parking data, and her impactful philanthropic work with internally displaced persons in Abuja. The conversation touches on Joy's reflections during her gap year and the evolving landscape of work in multifamily. She emphasizes the importance of technology, strategic partnerships, and diversity of thought in driving progress. The episode is filled with joyful anecdotes, from Joy's unexpected career beginnings to her passion for building things and making a difference. Don't miss this engaging, thoughtful, and deeply human conversation that promises to inspire and enlighten. Tune in for valuable takeaways on program management, the future of work, and the power of empathy and authenticity in building communities. Let's dive in! 00:00 Welcome to Boss Talks 00:13 Introducing Joy Arinze 01:44 Joy's Initial Connection with Community Boss 02:06 Diving Deep into Parking Solutions 04:56 Building Community Through Vulnerability 06:08 Joy's Wildest Parking Experience 08:00 Joy's Love for Tea 11:44 Joy's Journey from Nigeria to Multifamily 16:45 Philanthropic Work in Nigeria 20:26 Challenges and Reflections 31:39 Reflecting on a Rewarding Experience 32:10 Transition to Program Management 32:27 Defining Program Management 33:51 Role and Impact of Program Managers 34:57 Technology and Solutions in Program Management 36:33 The Importance of Data in Program Management 41:55 Challenges and Innovations in Parking Management 52:03 Future of Work in Multifamily 56:22 Navigating Uncertainty and Finding Community 01:02:33 Final Thoughts and Farewell
This episode of Boss Talks takes us through Joy Arinze’s fascinating career path, her reflections on vulnerability, community building, and her impactful stint in program management.
One of the key takeaways from Joy’s approach to life and community building is the importance of vulnerability. She shared how her initial curiosity about people has evolved into a practice of honest sharing. By opening up about her own experiences, Joy creates a space where others feel comfortable doing the same. This genuine exchange fosters deeper connections and a more authentic community.
Joy's professional journey is nothing short of inspiring. Starting in student housing, Joy navigated various roles that ultimately led her to program management in multifamily housing. She highlighted the vital role of thoughtful solutions in tackling widespread issues like parking. By leveraging technology and data, Joy drove impactful changes that enhanced both business operations and resident experiences.
In a touching segment, Joy recounted her move back to Nigeria to start a foundation aimed at helping internally displaced persons. Her firsthand experience with the economic and political challenges in Nigeria underscored her commitment to making a tangible difference. Despite facing obstacles, Joy's work in providing aid and restoring dignity to those affected remains a significant part of her story.
Joy’s passion for program management shines through as she describes it as turning chaos into clarity. She explains the distinct roles of product, program, and project management, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships with prop-tech companies. Her experience at Equity Residential showcased her ability to drive initiatives that align with organizational goals while leveraging technology to its fullest potential.
Joy believes that the future of work, especially in multifamily, lies in embracing technology and fostering an inclusive culture. She advocates for diverse perspectives and flexible work environments that accommodate varying personal circumstances. Joy’s insights call for a shift towards more intentional and empathetic decision-making processes within organizations.
Finally, Joy opens up about her gap year, a period marked by travel, introspection, and continuous learning. This time allowed her to reassess her career goals and personal values. Joy’s journey through uncertainty highlights the importance of community and empathy, especially during times of significant change and challenge.