Advocacy in Action with the National Apartment Association's Policy Pros - Nicole Upano and Jim Wilson

26/08/2025 1h 11min Episodio 4
Advocacy in Action with the National Apartment Association's Policy Pros - Nicole Upano and Jim Wilson

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Episode Synopsis

From fee transparency to grassroots victories, this episode of The Associated takes you straight into the heart of National Apartment Association’s advocacy efforts, recorded live from Denver at the RHALS Conference.Our guests, Nicole Upano and Jim Wilson, two leaders driving housing policy and political engagement at the national level, break down what’s happening now and what’s on the horizon. They talk about finding their way into politics, the evolution of NAA’s advocacy, the important relationship with affiliates, and why PAC engagement is more critical than ever.We also dive into:Fee transparency legislation heating upHow PAC money is really spentPolicy opportunities with a new administrationAwards that prove the power of data-driven grassroots campaignsWhat the future looks like for federal housing policyListeners will walk away with insider knowledge, practical ways to engage, and a deeper appreciation for the work happening to protect and grow the multifamily industry.Guest Bio: As AVP of Housing Policy & Regulatory Affairs at the National Apartment Association (NAA), Nicole Upano works with NAA leadership to set the association’s federal priorities and leads its federal regulatory advocacy. She also serves as NAA’s lead spokesperson on housing policy and manages a team that supports the industry’s advocacy with policy research, analysis and insights. Nicole calls Indiana home, earning a B.A. from Indiana University in Political Science and Studio Art.Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn HERE.Jim is currently NAA's AVP for Political Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement, where he oversees NAA's PAC, grassroots programs and relationships with external stakeholder groups like the National League of Cities and US Conference of Mayors. He was born and raised in Brooklyn NY and attended Georgetown University for undergrad and the University of Pittsburgh for his Masters' and Doctorate. Jim lives in Arlington VA with his wife, 2 children and dog. Connect with Jim on LinkedIn HERE.CONNECT WITH US!Hit subscribe and get ready for a fresh take on the apartment association world! Bryan Holladay on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-holladay-10003219Todd Whitlow on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/todd-whitlow-b7800529CLTPR Management on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/cltpr-managementBrownlee Whitlow & Praet on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brownleewhitlowpraetCLTPR Management Website: www.cltprmanagement.comThe Associated Podcast:

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