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PODCAST

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage

Michael Cunningham & Dylan Cunningham

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage is a real-world podcast about self storage investing, development, and management, hosted by father-son duo Michael and Dylan Cunningham. Whether you"re a real estate investor exploring the self-storage industry for the first time or a seasoned professional looking to scale your portfolio, this show is packed with value. Each episode covers the practical side of the business—from buying your first self storage property, to building facilities, managing

business investing

All Episodes

01:18:33

The SECRET Tax Moves Your CPA Isn’t Telling You:...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/10/28

In this episode Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss tax strategies for self-storage investors with Heidi Henderson, Chief Marketing Officer at Engineered Tax Services. Heidi explains various tax incentives, including cost segregation, which can accelerate depreciation and reduce tax liabilities. She also covers the benefits of being a real estate professional, which allows for more deductions. The discussion includes the impact of the "Big Beautiful Bill" on bonus depreciation and opportunity

en

01:09:13

Buying, Selling & Surviving Storage in 2025: Insider...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/08/18

John Lindsey, founder of Lindsey Self Storage Group, discussed his journey into the self-storage industry, starting in 1969 with his father. He highlighted the impact of rate hikes and elections on the market, noting a significant increase in transactions in 2025. Lindsey emphasized the importance of conservative development strategies, especially in oversaturated markets. He advised first-time buyers to start local, get pre-approved, and consider management companies. Lindsey also noted the shift

en

01:18:51

Behind the Scenes of Atomic Storage: 150 Sites and...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/07/31

Mike and Dylan discuss strategies for self-managed storage facilities with Rick Beal and Megan Smith of Atomic Storage Group. Rick emphasize the importance of fundamental marketing practices, such as optimizing Google business profiles and using quality backlinks. They highlight the need for efficient lead conversion through AI-based phone software and personalized customer service. The conversation also covers the challenges of managing 150 properties, including hiring practices, deferred

en

01:13:41

The Rise of Stuf: How Katharine Lau is Scaling Self...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/07/19

Katharine Lau, founder of Stuff Storage and Sidney AI, discussed her journey from hotel development to transforming underutilized office spaces into tech-enabled self-storage facilities. She highlighted the company's growth from 25 units in a basement to 30 locations in seven major cities, emphasizing the use of revenue-sharing leases and technology to scale operations. Kat introduced Sidney AI, a customer-facing AI agent handling sales and customer service, trained on five years of call data. The

en

01:21:25

The Pug Pack Playbook: Inside StoragePug with Tommy...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/07/09

Tommy Nguyen, co-founder of StoragePug, discussed the evolving self-storage industry at the ISS show, highlighting positive energy and tech advancements, including AI. He emphasized the importance of accurate Google Business Profiles, unique content on websites, and effective concessions like 50% off the first two months. Tommy advised focusing on Google Ads over platforms like SpareFoot, stressing the need for transparency in pricing and rate guarantees. He also noted the impact of advocating for

en

48:50

Reputation is Revenue: The Secret Sauce Behind 5 Star...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/06/24

Kale Leavitt, CEO of Storage Reach, discusses the importance of online reviews for self-storage businesses. He highlighted that only 1% of customers leave reviews without prompting, while 70% are willing to if asked. Storage Reach automates review requests, integrating with management software to target move-ins, current tenants, and move-outs. The platform achieves a 33-35% review conversion rate, with a two-step process to mitigate negative reviews. Pricing starts at $60/month for up to 100 units,

en

51:59

No Manager? No Problem: LiveSwitch Makes it Personal

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/06/18

James Hatfield, an entrepreneur and educator in the self-storage industry, discusses the integration of technology to enhance self-storage operations. His company, LiveSwitch, specializes in high-quality video and communication solutions. James shares his journey from reinventing the 911 phone call to entering the self-storage space. He highlights the benefits of using LiveSwitch for remote management, customer interactions, and maintenance, emphasizing features like live video calls, QR codes, and

en

01:04:51

The Hybrid Revolution: Inside the Virtual Model with...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/06/06

Brett Copper, President of Copper Storage Management, discussed the evolution and success of their remote management model, which has managed over 250 facilities across 39 states. Copper Storage Management's remote model saves payroll costs, averaging $600 monthly for under 500 units, compared to $50,000-$60,000 for traditional management. They use a tech stack including Storable, Swivl, Call Potential, Go Local Interactive, Bader Insurance, SpareFoot, Birdeye, Late2Lien, and SpiderDoor. Copper

en

26:48

Behind the Shine: Everbrite’s Edge in Storage...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/06/02

In Episode 12 of "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss Everbright Coatings with Jackie Belau from the company. Everbright Coatings, a family-owned business, has been in the market for over 30 years, initially for architectural use but now primarily for self-storage. The product restores and protects roll-up doors, siding, and other metal surfaces, enhancing curb appeal without full replacement. It's suitable for facilities 15-20 years old. A

en

01:03:53

First Facility, Real Lessons: How One Pilot Took on...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/30

In this special episode, we welcome our very first guest—Michael Bailey, a commercial airline pilot turned RV storage developer. Fresh off building his first facility in Cameron Park, California, Michael shares the raw, real-life journey of starting 1776 RV Storage from scratch. From zoning and CEQA hurdles to financing, permitting delays, and construction curveballs, this episode dives deep into what it really takes to bring a storage project to life. If you're thinking about getting into RV or

en

31:44

SEO, Signs & Referrals: The Marketing Blueprint for...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/19

In episode 10 of "The Good, Bad & the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss strategies for attracting new customers to self-storage facilities. They emphasize the importance of a Google Business Profile, SEO, and maintaining accurate online listings. They also highlight the significance of drive-by traffic, using signage, and leveraging existing customers through referral programs and personalized customer service. Additionally, they discuss building relationships

en

17:19

Beyond the Units: Creating Smart Offices and...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/18

In this episode of "The Good, Bad & the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss the importance of designing office and residential spaces in self-storage facilities. They emphasize the shift towards smaller, automated office layouts, with a focus on self-service kiosks and advanced access control systems. The conversation highlights the benefits of automation for streamlining operations and improving customer experience. They also debate the value of on-site manager

en

12:38

Drain It & Maintain It: Stormwater and Landscaping...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/17

In Episode 8 of "The Good, Bad & the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss storm water management and landscaping in California. They explain the importance of capturing and managing storm water to prevent flooding and pollution, highlighting the use of detention ponds, retention ponds, underground detention systems, and permeable pavement. They also discuss the aesthetic and functional benefits of integrating ponds into landscaping. Additionally, they emphasize the

en

29:21

From Chain-Link to Cloud-Based: Securing Your Storage...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/16

In episode seven of "The Good, Bad & the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss the importance of security in self-storage facilities. They emphasize the need for robust fencing, with chain link being common but municipalities preferring more aesthetic options like wrought iron or aluminum. For gates, sliding gates are recommended for their reliability and space efficiency. They highlight the use of advanced security systems, including cameras, access control, and

en

34:32

Raising the Roof: Turning Concrete Pads into Storage...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/15

In this episode of "The Good, Bad & the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss the exciting phase of erecting buildings in a self-storage development. They highlight the importance of organizing materials efficiently, using a forklift or reach lift, and planning the layout to avoid moving materials twice. They detail the construction process, including the use of Cornerstone metal buildings, the benefits of a standing seam roof, and the necessity of gutters for proper

en

24:55

Beneath the Surface: Underground Utilities & Finish...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/14

In this episode of "The Good, Bad & the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss the critical importance of underground utilities in self storage development. They detail the procurement and installation of drainage inlets, the use of high-density polyurethane pipes for storm water drainage, and the safety precautions required during trenching. They also cover the coordination of various utilities, including electrical, low voltage, and water lines, and the importance of

en

25:07

Concrete Decisions: Foundations That Last

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/14

In this episode of "The Good, Bad & the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss the critical importance of a strong foundation in self-storage facilities. They detail the preparation steps, including soil compaction and the use of 4-6 inches of base rock, and the necessity of proper grading and compaction testing. They explain the use of 2x6 or 2x8 form boards, the importance of a 13.5-inch wide, 1.5-inch deep roll-up door sill notch, and the benefits of using wire mesh

en

16:00

Breaking Ground: The Dirt on Rough Grading

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/10

In this episode of "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss the importance of rough grading in self-storage development. Rough grading sets the foundation for proper drainage and construction, and selecting the right grading company is crucial, considering experience, portfolio, and local knowledge. The cost per square foot for rough grading typically ranges from $2 to $4, depending on soil conditions and project complexity. A balanced property

en

42:20

Before You Break Ground: The Truth About Entitlements...

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/04/02

In this episode of "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Self Storage," hosts Michael and Dylan Cunningham discuss the complexities of the entitlement and permitting process for building a self-storage facility. They emphasize the importance of checking zoning, environmental assessments, and city general plans. They highlight the need for early consultation with the planning department and the significance of addressing issues like flood plains, wetlands, and endangered species. The conversation also

en

38:46

Pilot

The Good, Bad, & the Ugly of Self Storage ·

2025/03/21

Mike Cunningham and his son Dylan discuss their journey in the self-storage industry. Mike, with 15 years of experience, shares his initial investment in a 107,000 sq. ft. facility in 2006, which faced challenges during the 2008 recession. He emphasizes the importance of education, starting small, and understanding market vulnerabilities. Dylan, with a finance background, highlights the diverse customer base and the role of technology and social media in enhancing customer experience. They discuss

en

20 results

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