Best Josh Huff Podcasts (2025)

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Self Storage State Associations 101 - and Updates From Lighthouse 26:40

Play Pause

7d ago26:40

26:40

In this special episode, Melissa and Josh reflect on a big moment: being featured on the cover of Modern Storage Media's October issue! 🎉 They share what it means to be recognized and the exciting shifts happening behind the scenes at Lighthouse Storage Solutions. Melissa opens up about her recent transition away from managing a state association t…

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Who Are Your Customers? 35:57

17d ago35:57

35:57

Do you really know who’s renting your storage units? In this episode, Josh and Melissa Huff dive into one of the most overlooked aspects of effective self-storage marketing: creating clear, specific buyer personas. Understanding your customers is the first step to attracting more of them—and retaining them longer. We break down how to analyze your …

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Choosing the Right Management Fit with Brad North 1:07:34

23d ago1:07:34

1:07:34

Whether you’re a hands-on owner-operator or a passive investor looking to scale, finding the right management style can make or break your self-storage success. In this episode, guest host Brad North walks us through the various management setups—from on-site managers and remote tech-driven operations to hybrid and hub-and-spoke models. We explore …

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Auditing Your Self Storage Facility 45:16

27d ago45:16

45:16

None of us would go a year between oil changes for our cars. I can't even go 6 months without descaling my Keurig. But how long has it been since you did a tune-up of your self storage facility? The word "Audit" has gotten a bad wrap over the years, but it is one of the most essential things you can do to ensure your facility runs smoothly and avoi…

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Remembering the Fallen - Never forget 9/11 - Never Forget Charlie Kirk 17:16

1M ago17:16

17:16

Another generational event has happened, and it's worth taking a break from self storage to talk about. The events of yesterday, the assassination of Charlie Kirk, remind us of the last great generational tragedy from 24 years ago today. In both cases, evil individuals plotted and carried out deadly killings against people and ideals they disagreed…

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Getting a Self Storage Education (Even If You Missed the SSA Show) 38:06

2M ago38:06

38:06

If you're like us, you didn't make it out to Vegas this year for the Self Storage Association 50th Anniversary Conference. But don't despair! We have tons of other ways to find the education, networking, and vendor updates you need to keep your business competitive. Whether it's in-person events, virtual webinars, podcasts, or papers, we share all …

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Disaster Prep & Recovery with Kevin Leebrick and Scott McLaughlin 1:10:54

2M ago1:10:54

1:10:54

Today we focus on something every self storage operator hopes they never have to face—but absolutely need to be ready for: disasters. When the worst happens, every decision matters. Kevin Leebrick and Scott McLaughlin join Tommy and Melissa to share real stories from their own crisis experiences—fires, floods, and more—and the lessons they’ve learn…

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Legal Landmines: ADA, Arbitration, & Antitrust in Self Storage - Legal Chat Episode 6 with Carlos Kaslow and Scott Zucker 42:30

2M ago42:30

42:30

As the self storage industry moves further online, legal risks are evolving fast. In this Legal Chat episode, Carlos Kaslow and Scott Zucker break down the biggest legal challenges operators face today—and how to prepare for them. Key topics include: Website accessibility & ADA lawsuits Deceptive Trade Practices and Drip Pricing Mandatory arbitrati…

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Everyday Uses for AI in Self Storage with Jennifer Barroqueiro 57:14

2M ago57:14

57:14

AI is everywhere in the self storage world—but how can operators actually use it day-to-day? In this episode, Jennifer Barroqueiro from All-Purpose Storage joins Josh and Melissa Huff to share real, practical ways managers and owners can leverage AI to save time, improve communication, and boost efficiency. We discuss: How AI can streamline emails,…

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Future-Proofing with Upgrades & Expansions: with Nigel Kreft 1:10:41

3M ago1:10:41

1:10:41

Is your self storage facility ready for the future—or falling behind? In this episode, Nigel Kreft from Elevate Structures joins Tommy Nguyen and Melissa Huff to talk about how to keep your property competitive, profitable, and positioned for growth through the right upgrades and expansions. We discuss: When and why to upgrade or expand (from occup…

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Incentivizing Your Managers 44:35

3M ago44:35

44:35

Your facility manager isn’t just an employee—they’re running your multi-million-dollar business. Are you training, empowering, and compensating them to reflect that responsibility? In this episode, we cover: What NOT to incentivize (and why the wrong goals can hurt your bottom line) How to educate your manager (or yourself) so they fully understand…

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Run It Like You're Selling It 41:43

3M ago41:43

41:43

Whether you plan to sell next year or in 20 years, one thing is certain: you won’t own your self storage facility forever. So how do you ensure it’s gaining—and retaining—value? In this episode, we explore what it means to steward your storage asset with the future in mind. We break down three key areas that directly impact your facility’s long-ter…

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Social Media is Back! - How AI and META are Changing How People Find Self Storage 34:59

3M ago34:59

34:59

How's your social media presence? Do you post once a month? Once a year? If your Facebook page or Instagram profile are low priorities, it might be time for a change. A HUGE update from META dropped today. Posts on social can now be indexed on Google. Plus, Google is launching AI Mode to go along with their traditional search. What does this mean f…

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Making Tech Work For You with James Hatfield & Michael Brevdeh 1:27:30

4M ago1:27:30

1:27:30

We sat down with James Hatfield from LiveSwitch and Michael Brevdeh from Cubby to unpack how self storage operators can make the most of their technology—whether you're working with what you already have or considering your next big upgrade. We dive into: The essential tech tools every facility should have in place The most underutilized features o…

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The Essential Signs For Your Facility 39:03

4M ago39:03

39:03

Clear, intentional signage isn’t just for looks—it can shape the entire customer experience, reduce confusion, and cut down on unnecessary phone calls. In this episode, we break down the essential signs every facility should have and why they matter. We cover: Why your main sign should be simple and brand-driven—no phone numbers required The one si…

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How to Beat the Low Intro Rates 26:16

4M ago26:16

26:16

One of the biggest questions we get asked is, "How can I compete with my competitor down the street who is offering the same unit as me but for 50% less?" Low intro rates are a strategy many large companies are using, but don't worry. You have options other than bottoming out your prices and losing money for the first several months of a rental. We…

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Real Life VS Running a Business - Can Your Self Storage Business Run Without You? 27:37

4M ago27:37

27:37

Sometimes real life just smacks you in the face. That was our week, and it happens to us all. If you run a small business, like self storage, it can hit a little different. What happens to your business if you get that call or text that forces you to focus all of your attention on something else? If you have to step away, will your business survive…

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Dealing with Dead Tenants 28:57

5M ago28:57

28:57

What do you do when a tenant passes away while renting a storage unit? This was the opening question AI came up with... Hopefully, no one has ever passed away in your office while renting a unit, but dealing with an existing tenant who has died happens more often than you think. This is one of the most uncomfortable but critical situations self sto…

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Optimizing Occupancy with Andrew Sherrard 1:15:41

5M ago1:15:41

1:15:41

In this episode, we're joined by Andrew Sherrard, owner of Reliable Storage in Seattle, to talk all things occupancy—and not just how full your units are, but how well your business is performing overall. In this rebroadcast of the May 29 webinar, we break down the three types of occupancy (yes, there are three!) and how to evaluate what’s actually…

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Personal Curb Appeal - Seeing Yourself As a Self Storage Amenity 28:11

5M ago28:11

28:11

We talk a lot about amenities in self storage—security cameras, clean units, keypads, gates—but what about you? The manager is one of the most important amenities at a facility, and often one of the most under emphasized. Appearance, attitude, and professionalism can either enhance or hurt your facility’s image. What you wear and what you support d…

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When AI Isn't the Answer 46:36

5M ago46:36

46:36

AI is transforming the self-storage industry—from smarter security cameras and chatbots to automated rate comparisons and call evaluations. But how much is too much? In this episode, we take a balanced look at the role of artificial intelligence in storage operations and explore where it helps—and where it may be hurting more than helping. We discu…

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ISS Takeaways with the On the Move Crew 57:39

6M ago57:39

57:39

In this special on-location episode from Boerne, TX, we're joined by the team from On the Move—Jim, Sherry, CJ, and Stacie—to unpack their biggest takeaways from the Inside Self-Storage World Expo, the industry's largest event. From expert-led education sessions to lively vendor conversations, this episode dives into: Why Good Questions Matter – Ho…

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Bankruptcy, Military Tenants, Search and Seizure - Legal Chat with Carlos Kaslow and Scott Zucker 35:29

6M ago35:29

35:29

In this quarterly Legal Chat, self storage attorneys Scott Zucker and Carlos Kaslow tackle the toughest legal challenges operators face in 2025. From military tenants and bankruptcy stays to lean sale objections and law enforcement searches, this conversation dives deep into the real-world scenarios that take storage owners out of the office and in…

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What the Best Managers Do (That Others Don't) with Mark Green 1:07:04

6M ago1:07:04

1:07:04

What separates the good from the truly great in self-storage management? In this episode, Melissa and Tommy are joined by Mark Green from The Jenkins Organization to explore what top-performing managers do differently—and how their daily habits, communication, and customer care lead to higher occupancy and better results. Together, they dive into k…

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Become a Master Manager - Inside Self Storage Preview 25:55

6M ago25:55

25:55

What does it take to truly master self-storage management? In this episode, we give a preview of our upcoming session at the Inside Self-Storage World Expo on Friday morning, where they’ll break down the essential skills every great manager and owner needs to succeed. We will expand on these four core areas: ✅ Managing Yourself – Building disciplin…

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Before You Build - Key Considerations As You Design Your Self Storage Facility 32:35

7M ago32:35

32:35

So, you’ve got the land and a feasibility study in hand—now what? In this episode, we walk through the critical next steps before breaking ground on a new self-storage facility. From layout decisions to customer flow to operational planning, this conversation is packed with practical advice for developers and future owners. Topics covered include: …

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New Self Storage Legislation and More From the SSA Spring Show 38:19

7M ago38:19

38:19

Fresh off the Self Storage Association (SSA) Spring Conference & Expo in Orlando, we break down key legislative updates and share our top takeaways from the event. New and Pending Legislation – Updates on non-monetary defaults, unsigned leases, and the push to remove outdated newspaper advertising requirements Why Industry Self-Regulation Matters –…

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Owning Your Local Market with Stephanie Tharpe 1:13:51

7M ago1:13:51

1:13:51

Five years ago, Gabfest kicked off the Gabfocus webinar series to bring expert insights and real-world strategies to the self-storage industry. Now, in our 70th webinar episode, we’re diving into one of the most important topics for storage operators: How to Dominate Your Local Market. In this special episode, Tommy and Melissa sit down with indust…

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The Best Self Storage Software - 2025 Edition 50:09

7M ago50:09

50:09

With so many self-storage management software options available, how do you choose the right one for your facility? We unpack the key features and must-haves for 2025, helping you navigate the software landscape to find the best fit for your business. Online Rentals & Payments – How to streamline the tenant experience with electronic signatures, ID…

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How The Market Impacts Your Rates 40:49

8M ago40:49

40:49

Pricing your self-storage units isn’t just about setting a number and hoping for the best—it’s about staying informed and adapting to market conditions. In this episode, we break down why keeping an eye on your local competition, regional trends, and even seasonal factors is essential for optimizing your rates and specials. Topics covered include: …

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The Power of Self Storage Mentorship 52:00

8M ago52:00

52:00

A consultant shows you the path you need to walk, but a mentor walks the path with you. In a business as nuanced and unique as self storage, enlisting a mentor can be the difference between a successful business venture and one that never makes it through lease up. As the industry evolves, new investors often face overwhelming decisions about facil…

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2025 State of the Industry with John Chang 1:10:04

8M ago1:10:04

1:10:04

In this rebroadcast of our February 20, 2025 webinar, John Chang from Marcus & Millichap provides an in-depth analysis of the self-storage industry's economic landscape in 2025. With inflation stabilizing, interest rates remaining high, and occupancy trends shifting, John breaks down key market forces shaping the industry and what operators should …

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Beyond the 4 Ds: Why Business Owners Need Storage with Jamie Boros 45:49

8M ago45:49

45:49

Self-storage isn’t just for life transitions anymore—more and more small business owners, gig workers, and entrepreneurs are using storage units to run and grow their businesses. From Etsy sellers and antique dealers to pharmaceutical reps and lawn care companies, these customers have unique needs and can be some of the longest-staying tenants. In …

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Telling Your Self Storage Story 36:03

9M ago36:03

36:03

Today we dive into figuring out your self storage story- the characters, the plot, and the target audience. It's only after those pieces are in place that an effective story can be told, and your business is no different. But that's only half of the journey. Once you've figured out your story, you have to tell it, and often words just aren't enough…

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Self Storage SEO Part 2 50:29

9M ago50:29

50:29

We're back for part 2 of the self storage SEO discussion that began on last week's episode. There were so many unanswered questions that needed a response: What if you have multiple locations? Do you use 1 website, 1 Google Profile? How do you get in the Map Pack if your not already? Should my website list every single chain restaurant near my faci…

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SEO 101: How to Rent More Units Online 1:11:12

9M ago1:11:12

1:11:12

What is SEO, why does it matter, and how does it work for self-storage specifically? Today we tackle search engine optimization basics and discuss the impacts of the REITs, AI, and changes to expect in the coming year. Do you need to still be on page 1 of Google? What metrics should you pay attention to? Who and how do you target your ideal custome…

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Optimizing Your Ops Manual 32:36

9M ago32:36

32:36

When is the last time you looked through your self storage operations manual, assuming you have one in place? Is it still fully applicable and relevant? Are you using it to train new employees or is it so out of date it just collects dust on the shelf? Today we talk best practices for optimizing your operations manual. These documents should be reg…

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The More Things Change- Is it Time for TikTok, AI, and Billboards? 33:03

10M ago33:03

33:03

A new year is here and change is in the wind! Is it time to get into TikTok? Do you need to pivot to AI search? Maybe a billboard strategy or having a manager available 24/7 is what you need. As more and more options for doing self storage become available, what do you need to be doing as a business owner or operator? As with most things, the more …

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Legal Chat Episode 4 with Carlos Kaslow and Scott Zucker 34:02

10M ago34:02

34:02

Welcome to Episode 4 of Legal Chat. This virtual "Power Hour" covers a variety of topics and questions sent in from self storage owners and operators around the country. Today it's all about costs, data protection, and un-signed leases. Is it okay to pass along costs to your tenants? How long should you hold on to your tenants information once they…

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Lessons Learned in 2024 1:18:01

10M ago1:18:01

1:18:01

"The sky is not the limit, demand is the limit for what we can do in self storage." This is just one of the nuggest from our end of the year review. What was your toughest challenge this year? What are the weaknesses you identified in your business? What worked? What didn't? What trends are you expecting in 2025 for self storage? We look back on 20…

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Call Centers For the Win with Sherry Miller 55:30

10M ago55:30

55:30

You're paying hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars to get website visitors, walk-in traffic, and phone calls to rent self storage units. But what if you're not there to answer the phone? Too many voicemails and missed calls turn into missed opportunities if you aren't connecting with customers in the moment. But is a call center the right solutio…

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Keep the Trash Out: Self Storage Security 53:11

11M ago53:11

53:11

Cameras and gates and wasp spray, oh my! Yes, these are all great ways to keep the trash off your property and to give your security a boost. Security is top of mind for most self storage tenants. It consistently ranks in the top 3 for what is most important to our customers. What security do you need for your facility? Do you really need a gate? W…

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Thankful for Self Storage 2024 Edition 32:00

11M ago32:00

32:00

Happy Thanksgiving! As 2024 begins to wrap, we reflect on what makes us most thankful in the self storage industry. From trade shows to business opportunities to our crazy travel schedule, there's a lot to think back on. Yes, we give several specific shout-outs to vendors and individuals who have impacted us, plus some bonus content about our favor…

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Marketing That Gets Clicks with Melissa Stiles 1:12:05

11M ago1:12:05

1:12:05

Melissa Stiles from Storage Asset Management brings her expertise managing marketing for over 600 self storage locations to the group as we dive into digital marketing. What tactics work for lease up, large stores, small stores, or stable properties? When is it time to change things up? What should your budget look like? We explore social media, Go…

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Highlight the Obvious 35:45

11M ago35:45

35:45

What's obvious to you might not be so obvious to others. We swim in the self-storage world, so things like month-to-month leases, drive-up access, online rentals, and pest control might not seem like amazing amenities to highlight. However, the average customer doesn't know the standard self-storage package. Handicap access or the fact that they ar…

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Legal Chat Episode 3 with Carlos Kaslow and Scott Zucker 36:04

12M ago36:04

36:04

Welcome to Episode 3 of Legal Chat. This virtual "Power Hour" covers a variety of topics and questions sent in from self storage owners and operators around the country. Today it's all about disasters. With the recent hurricanes hitting the southeast, it's important to understand the legal challenges. Here are a few of the topics covered: Tenant Co…

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What's New With Google Business Profile 35:56

12M ago35:56

35:56

Your Google Business Profile accounts for almost 50% of the ranking factors that impact when you'll show up in Google's search results. This free tool is constantly updated and is often the first intro customers have to your business. This profile is a free tool available to every self storage business owner. Are you making the most of every featur…

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2024 Storage Legal Update with Scott Zucker 1:12:23

1y ago1:12:23

1:12:23

Are you tired of hearing "Well, I'm not an attorney, but..."? Worry no more- we have one of the best self storage attorneys in the country joining the webinar today. Scott Zucker has decades of experience in the industry. Today, he updates us on the top changes in 2024, laws from other industries that are impacting self storage, and what's coming i…

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Preparing For the Next Disaster 44:22

1y ago44:22

44:22

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, many self storage owners across the southeast experienced one of the D's that drive rentals in our industry- Disaster. Whether it's a hurricane, tornado, fire, burglary, or some other form, disaster hits us all. Are you prepared? The best plan is one that's in place before disaster strikes, but even in the mids…

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Exceptional Customer Service with Lee Creech 1:18:35

1y ago1:18:35

1:18:35

Customer service makes all the difference. You can have a fantastic self storage facility with a great location that is beautifully clean, but if your customer service is terrible you won't rent a unit. Lee Creech joins the webinar today to share his tips, tricks, and basic principles from his years of experience working in the hotel industry as we…