Umansky and Haber Launch ARA Talks Podcast on Housing

Lucía Torres · 2026-05-21

The American Real Estate Association (ARA) has officially launched "ARA Talks," a new podcast co-hosted by ARA Co-Founder Jason Haber and The Agency's Mauricio Umansky. This series brings together policymakers and thought leaders to tackle one of the biggest challenges families face today: housing affordability. ### A Bold Start with Governor Pritzker The debut season opens with a candid conversation with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. His recently unveiled BUILD Plan (Building Up Illinois Developments) is one of the most ambitious state-level housing reform initiatives in the country. It proposes sweeping changes to zoning laws, permitting processes, and capital investments, all aimed at expanding the supply of affordable and middle-income housing across Illinois. ### Why This Matters Now Home prices have jumped nearly 50 percent over the last five years. Rents are rising faster than wages, and inventory remains at historic lows. ARA wants to lead direct, unfiltered discussions with the people driving real change. As Umansky put it, "No filter. No spin. Just the real conversation." ### What Jason Haber Says For Haber, starting the podcast with Governor Pritzker sets the perfect tone. "He sat down with us and walked through what it takes to move legislation like this, what the resistance looks like, and why he believes Illinois can be a model for the country," Haber explained. "That's the episode you want to hear first." ### Key Takeaways from the Episode - The BUILD Plan targets zoning and permitting reforms to speed up construction. - It focuses on both affordable and middle-income housing to address a wide range of needs. - The conversation explores challenges like political opposition and funding hurdles. ### Where to Listen "ARA Talks" is available to stream on Spotify and YouTube. New episodes will feature a rotating cast of experts, advocates, and policymakers.