Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast Episode Summary: "Headspace Real Estate’s Mission to Transform Addiction Recovery with Matt Brown & Amy Hall" Release Date: June 9, 2025
Introduction and Guest Profiles
In this compelling episode of the Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast, host Scott Becker welcomes two inspiring founders, Amy Hall and Matt Brown. Amy brings over two decades of experience in healthcare real estate, having led leasing and portfolio strategies at some of the largest healthcare REITs. Matt, celebrating 11 years in long-term recovery from an 18-year battle with addiction, has dedicated his career to building and scaling integrated behavioral health systems focused on comprehensive, whole-person care.
Founding Headspace Real Estate and Momentum Recovery & Wellness
Amy Hall and Matt Brown share the genesis of their collaborative venture, Headspace Real Estate, and their co-founded organization, Momentum Recovery & Wellness. Amy explains her transition from a successful corporate career into the entrepreneurial realm driven by personal experiences with addiction within her family. "This is deeply personal for me... we can help other families walk through that successfully" (Amy Hall, 01:07).
Matt delves into his personal journey, emphasizing how his recovery has shaped his professional mission. "My journey from addiction to purpose has really shaped everything that I do today" (Matt Brown, 02:20). Together, they aim to transform addiction recovery by integrating smart real estate development with behavioral health services.
Navigating the "Messy Middle" of Building a Business
Scott Becker prompts the founders to discuss the challenges faced in establishing their company. Amy Hall describes the complexities of the early stages, referencing the concept of the "messy middle." She highlights the multifaceted tasks beyond strategic real estate, including website development, IT needs, and human resources. "Every day is just kind of a curiosity journey from HR to IT to strategically running the company" (Amy Hall, 04:59).
Matt Brown adds to this by describing their phase as a "blank slate," where they explore various business models, such as acquiring vacant properties, purchasing properties with existing operations, or engaging in turnaround consulting. "This is the important part where we get to make this our own and assess the needs of the communities that we're going to serve" (Matt Brown, 05:08).
Vision and Future Focus
When asked about their primary focuses and what excites them for the future, Amy Hall emphasizes her commitment to bringing hope to families affected by addiction. She reflects on her personal experiences, stating, "If we can bring a little bit of hope, a little bit of help in that moment, that's what I want to do" (Amy Hall, 06:20).
Matt Brown shares his enthusiasm for launching the first facilities and beginning patient care. He outlines the foundational pillars for their integrated behavioral health care company: quality patient care, compliance, an attractive workplace, professional development, and fiscal responsibility. "In one quick sentence, I'm looking forward to having patients to serve" (Matt Brown, 07:37).
Funding Strategies and Financial Planning
The conversation shifts to funding strategies essential for scaling their operations. Amy Hall outlines three primary funding paths:
- Traditional Debt: Securing loans for property acquisitions.
- PACE Equity Financing: An innovative approach utilizing property tax assessments to bridge funding gaps, allowing for tax-deductible special assessments.
- Private Equity Partnerships and Syndications: Leveraging private investments to support operational plays (Amy Hall, 08:58).
Her explanation of PACE Equity Financing stands out as a creative solution for funding real estate projects without solely relying on traditional equity raises.
Advice for Emerging Leaders
In a segment dedicated to guiding the next generation of leaders, Matt Brown offers sage advice: "Don't be the smartest person in the room. The most effective leaders... knew what they didn't know and weren't afraid to raise their hand and ask for help" (Matt Brown, 10:06). He emphasizes humility and continuous learning as key traits for effective leadership.
Amy Hall echoes this sentiment, encouraging leaders to "stay curious" about people and opportunities. She advises taking every call and approaching conversations with an "honest and humble heart," fostering meaningful connections that can lead to unforeseen opportunities (Amy Hall, 10:40).
Closing Remarks
Scott Becker concludes the episode by expressing his support and excitement for Amy and Matt's endeavors. Both founders extend their gratitude, underscoring their commitment to transforming addiction recovery through integrated real estate and behavioral health initiatives.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Amy Hall (01:07): "This is deeply personal for me... we can help other families walk through that successfully."
- Matt Brown (02:20): "My journey from addiction to purpose has really shaped everything that I do today."
- Amy Hall (04:59): "Every day is just kind of a curiosity journey from HR to IT to strategically running the company."
- Matt Brown (05:08): "This is the important part where we get to make this our own and assess the needs of the communities that we're going to serve."
- Amy Hall (06:20): "If we can bring a little bit of hope, a little bit of help in that moment, that's what I want to do."
- Matt Brown (07:37): "In one quick sentence, I'm looking forward to having patients to serve."
- Amy Hall (08:58): "There's three different paths that we would look at... traditional debt, PACE Equity Financing, private equity partnership, and syndication."
- Matt Brown (10:06): "Don't be the smartest person in the room."
- Amy Hall (10:40): "Stay curious... take every single call."
Conclusion
This episode provides a heartfelt and insightful look into the mission-driven endeavors of Amy Hall and Matt Brown. Their dedication to integrating real estate with addiction recovery services exemplifies innovative approaches to addressing societal challenges. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on overcoming entrepreneurial challenges, strategic funding, and leadership development from two leaders passionately committed to making a difference.