In this episode of Beyond the Resume, we welcome Carlina Rivera, President and CEO of the New York State Association for Affordable Housing (NYSAFAH), for a conversation about affordable housing, public service, leadership, and community advocacy.
Drawing on her experience as a New York City Council Member, tenant advocate, and legislative staffer, Carlina explores the challenges facing affordable housing development in New York. From rising construction and insurance costs to housing policy, public-private partnerships, and the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), she explains how NYSAFAH advocates for the production and preservation of affordable homes.
Carlina also reflects on her upbringing in public housing and Section 8 housing on Manhattan's Lower East Side, her early experiences at the Marist Poll, and her involvement with the Essex Crossing development. She shares how these experiences shaped her commitment to public service and housing stability.
Beyond policy, the conversation explores balancing family and leadership, expanding NYSAFAH's reach, mentoring future professionals, and why storytelling matters in affordable housing.
CHAPTERS
(00:20) Welcome and Introductions
(01:34) NYSAFAH and New York's Affordable Housing Crisis
(03:04) Rising Housing Costs and Policy Challenges
(04:14) From City Council to Housing Advocacy
(07:10) Journalism, Polling, and Early Career Lessons
(11:44) Essex Crossing and Community Development
(12:55) The Roots of Public Service
(17:05) The Benefits of NYSAFAH Membership
(18:52) A Day in the Life of NYSAFAH's CEO
(21:00) Expanding Affordable Housing Advocacy
(24:28) Transit-Oriented Development and Housing
(26:45) Balancing Family and Leadership
(28:16) The Hot Seat
(32:01) Hiring, Storytelling, and Building Teams
(33:42) Mentorship and Career Lessons
YouTube: https://youtu.be/FfOgrhkbElg
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Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3I3nkG9
