Shows
The Home Builder Digital Marketing PodcastBuilding a Brand Story Around Community - Monaca OnstadThis week on The Home Builder Digital Marketing Podcast, Monaca Onstad of OnPlace joins Greg and Kevin to discuss how home builders can build a brand story around the communities they build in and connect more authentically with home buyers. https://www.buildermarketingpodcast.com/episodes/279-building-a-brand-story-around-community-monaca-onstad2025-07-3030 min
Smith LanePurpose Meets Place: Interior Design that Builds Community with Kelly MangumIn this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by Kelly Mangum, Regional Vice President of the South Carolina and North Carolina division at Builders Design. Monaca, Callie, and Kelly discuss the impact of interior design, and how it can shape the spaces and communities we’re creating.We explore how Builders Design approaches each project with a focus on collaboration, placemaking, and a deep understanding of today’s homebuyers. Kelly offers real-world examples of thoughtful designs that align with a community’s identity — spaces that not only make a strong impression during a walk-through but continue to meet re...2025-07-2331 min
Smith LaneThe Spirit Behind the Space: Fawley Bryant's Approach with Stu HendersonI this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by Stu Henderson—Owner and Design Architect at Fawley Bryant Architecture—to explore how architecture can deepen a community’s sense of place. Stu shares how his firm works across the sports, education, and government sectors to design spaces that reflect and serve the people who use them.The conversation follows Stu’s path from art to architecture, the importance of designing spaces that embody the spirit of a community, and the ongoing balance between creative vision and business realities. We discuss accessibility and inclusive design, and Stu reflects o...2025-07-0934 min
Smith LaneRethinking the Rental Experience: BrightSky's Blueprint with Charles McKeagWhat if rental communities could offer the comfort of homeownership—without the long-term commitment?In this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by Charles McKeag, President of the California division of BrightSky Residential, to explore how his team is reshaping the single-family rental experience. Charles began his career in land-use law, but a pivotal realization — that he wanted to build communities rather than simply represent those who do — led him to pivot into real estate development. That insight brought him to BrightSky at its inception just over three years ago.Charles walks us through BrightSk...2025-06-2541 min
Smith LaneDesigning Newfield: Dan Grosswald on Early Community Activation and Long-Term Vision | Ep. 24In this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by Dan Grosswald, Division President of Southeast Florida at Mattamy Homes. A lifelong South Florida resident, Dan shares his passion for homebuilding and his leadership mindset — including one of his commonly used phrases, “budgets are for losers” — and why vision should guide decisions, not just the numbers.We explore one of Mattamy’s standout projects, Newfield, built around the pillars of preserved land, a working farm, and a vibrant town center. Newfield prioritized early community activation through their strategic farmers market and other community events, to earn the buy-in of th...2025-06-1141 min
Smith LaneThe Bahamas Revitalization: GreenPointe's Next Adventure | Ep. 23 with Grady MiarsIn this episode of Smith Lane, we sit down with Grady Miars, the President and Chief Operating Officer of GreenPointe Holdings LLC, for a deep dive into his career journey and the GreenPointe vision behind creating authentic and successful master-planned communities.Grady reveals how the company’s motto—be reliable, predictable, and prepared—guides their work, fostering a culture that attracts builders and a loyal workforce. Grady and Monaca bond over their shared leadership approach, which pushes themselves and their teams out of their comfort zone while creating a supportive space for growth.The conversation delves...2025-05-2834 min
Smith LaneThe Reverie Lifestyle: Connect, Explore & Thrive with Dream Finders Homes | Ep. 22 with David SmithIn this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by David Smith, President of the Active Adult Division, at Dream Finders Homes. Dream Finders, recently named Builder of the Year, is a national homebuilder head-quartered in Jacksonville, Florida, operating across various states and markets, including the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest. David shares his unique journey from law enforcement to leading one of the nation’s top homebuilding teams, and how that transition shaped his approach to building experiences.We explore Reverie, the Dream Finders active adult brand, designed around the pillars of Connect, Explore, and Thrive and disc...2025-05-1443 min
Smith LanePivots, Places & People: Rethinking Home | Ep. 21 with Peter DennehyIn this episode of Smith Lane, we welcome Peter Dennehy, Senior VP of Consulting at John Burns Research and Consulting, for a wide-ranging conversation on career pivots, emerging home trends, and the increasingly diverse needs of today’s homebuyers. We also explore what creates a true sense of community — and why it matters.Peter shares the mission behind John Burns Research and Consulting: to provide high-quality, unbiased data that helps developers make informed decisions about housing projects. He reflects on the lessons he’s learned from moving between consulting and operations, offering a unique perspective on both sides...2025-04-3041 min
Alosant Innovator SeriesThe Power of Lifestyle in Community BuildingThis episode of the Alosant Innovator Series features a panel of thought leaders in lifestyle programming. Together, they share insights on the evolving role of lifestyle in communities, from fostering a sense of belonging to securing resident buy-in for sustainable programming. The panel explores how developers are increasingly recognizing the value of well-curated lifestyle experiences. They highlight the critical role of lifestyle professionals in guiding residents—from their initial home selection to long-term community engagement. The conversation also delves into the growing importance of wellness initiatives, the impact of lifestyle on home sales, strategies for bui...2025-04-0250 min
Smith LaneFarmers Markets: Are They Right for Your Community? | Ep. 20 with Monaca & CallieFarmers markets create a strong sense of community, making residents and prospective homebuyers feel part of something bigger — but are they the right fit for every community? In this episode, hosts Monaca Onstead and Callie Friedman break down the appeal, challenges, and key considerations of farmers markets.Monaca and Callie discuss how, in smaller communities, challenges like a lack of vendors and attendance can make sustaining a market difficult. However, from a development standpoint, a well-run farmers market can be a valuable asset — seamlessly showcasing what it feels like to be part of a community without the pres...2025-03-2620 min
Smith LaneCreating Community Vol 1: Monaca's Thoughts on the Future of Amenities and Converting Lifestyle to SalesIn the first installment of our Q&A series, ‘Creating Community’, hosts Monaca and Callie tackle pressing questions from their LinkedIn network. Callie leads the conversation, prompting Monaca to share insights on the evolving real estate development and lifestyle landscapes.Monaca discusses the potential impact of the National Association of Realtors settlement on the role of realtors and whether developers are rethinking lifestyle in a cooling market. She explores the future of amenities in master-planned communities, the balance between infrastructure and emotional connection, and the importance of designing spaces that feel authentic rather than manufactured.She...2025-03-1239 min
Smith LaneSmart Spaces: Reshaping Communities Through TechIn this special episode of Smith Lane, we explore the impacts of technology on the world of placemaking, featuring insights from four industry leaders who are shaping the way we design, develop, and engage with communities. From streamlining architectural control, to leveraging data for real estate marketing, integrating AI in landscape architecture, and enhancing community engagement through mobile apps, these conversations highlight the transformative role of technology in the built environment.Join us as we revisit key moments with guests A’Lisa Ozment of Architectural Plan Review, Deven Spear of OA3 and Overabove, Rhett Crocker of LandDesign, an...2025-02-2616 min
Smith LaneThe intersection of branding and placemaking | Ep. 17 with Vaike O'GradyWelcome to this episode of Smith Lane, where we’re joined by the influential Vaike O’Grady—a strategist and place-maker who has transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. Vaike now leads Residential Marketing Resources, serving her clients through strategic planning, market research, and more.
A key theme in our conversation is intentional place-making—creating environments that create a “community vibe” as Vaike describes it, achieved through strategizing around and being responsive to the needs of the residents.
One example Vaike shares is a community where a trail system and interconnected amenities encouraged residents to walk, exp...2025-02-0536 min
Smith LaneBuilding Magnetic Spaces Through Place Whispering | Ep 16 with Stephanie Darden BennettIn this episode of Smith Lane, we sit down with Stephanie Darden Bennett, President and Chief Creative Officer of Prismatic.
Stephanie describes Prismatic’s mission as "place whispering"— a unique approach to uncovering the hidden potential of spaces. Her team helps developers and owners craft strategic branding, marketing, and user experience concepts to transform ordinary land into places with magnetic appeal.
Stephanie shares highlights from her career, including landing Bank of America as an early client and how her motto, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone,” has driven her success. We also discuss...2025-01-2242 min
Smith LaneHow LandDesign Is Leveraging Storytelling & Technology | Ep. 15 with Rhett CrockerIn this episode, we sit down with Rhett Crocker, President and CEO of LandDesign, to explore his philosophy of placemaking.
Rhett shares how his balanced approach—focusing equally on landscape architecture and civil engineering—brings projects to life. As a leader who remains passionate about staying hands-on in the work, he highlights the importance of collaboration, relationships, and client-centered design.
We dive into the significance of weaving a community's culture into a place, as Rhett reflects on his evolving philosophies around how people interact with spaces and the ways technology is shaping the creative side of t...2025-01-0842 min
Smith LaneHow Two Stepping, Goats, and Live Music Inspire Community | Ep 14 with Tom WoliverIn this episode of Smith Lane, Tom Woliver, founder and co-president of Oxland Group, dives into the importance of authentic placemaking.
He shares his journey from landscape architecture to leading Oxland Group, a full-service capital investment and real estate development firm. Tom offers career insights, including the value of working with a trusted network, and adhering to a strict “no assholes” policy.
At the heart of Oxland’s philosophy is placemaking. Tom discusses Two Step Farm, one of Oxland’s standout projects—a community inspired by early Texas settlements that valued farming, music, and dance halls. ...2024-12-1540 min
Smith LaneTransforming Communities with Bike Bus | Ep. 13 with Jessica TillyerIn this episode of Smith Lane, we’re joined by Jessica Tillyer, co-founder of Bike Bus World, a movement dedicated to "transforming communities and our planet through the simple act of riding bikes to school together."
Jessica shares how the idea of the Bike Bus was born out of her own need for a community-driven way to bike her kids to school, and how it has grown into a powerful tool for building connections and changing the way we think about active transportation.
Additionally, Jessica shares her evolving perspective on balancing career and motherhood. Her in...2024-12-0440 min
Smith LaneDesigning for Life | Ep. 12 with David HoppesIn this episode of Smith Lane, we welcome David Hoppes, Vice President, Senior Principal, Studio Leader, and Professional Landscape Architect at Dix.Hite + Partners. Join us as we explore David’s deep-rooted connection to nature, tracing his journey from growing up on a farm to a career in landscape architecture.
David shares valuable insights into how landscape architecture goes beyond mere aesthetics, encompassing ecological considerations like topography, existing vegetation, and community impact. We confront the common misconception that landscape architects simply select plants, uncovering the details and collaborative efforts that truly define the profession.
David de...2024-11-1330 min
Smith LaneBuilding Bonds with Bundled Golf Communities | Ep. 11 with Brad ComptonIn this episode of Smith Lane, we sit down with Brad Compton, President of ICON Management Services, Inc. Brad shares his extensive experience with golf, which he began playing at only 3 years old, and offers insights into managing golf communities.
Brad introduces the concept of bundled golf communities, where all residents enjoy membership benefits, making golf more accessible and affordable compared to traditional private equity clubs. This model not only provides a top-notch amenity but also fosters a sense of community, with nearly 50,000 rounds of golf played annually at ICON-managed communities.
We delve into golf’s...2024-10-3047 min
Smith LaneMastering the MPC with Starwood Land: Ep. 10 with Mike MoserIn this episode of Smith Lane, we dive into all things residential land development with Mike Moser, CEO of Starwood Land — the longest-tenured joint venture partner with Starwood Capital.
Mike shares his insights on builder choice, affordability challenges, the significance of welcome centers, and innovative acquisition strategies. We also explore the success of Starwood Land’s MPC project Sunterra — the best-selling master-planned community in Texas and #3 community in the nation – that expertly blends affordability with an exceptional amenity package and lifestyle program.
Tune in for a look inside the mind of one of the best in the b...2024-10-1634 min
Alosant Innovator SeriesThe Art of Early Lifestyle Programming at SunterraIn this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we feature Callie Friedman, the Vice President of Operations at OnPlace, for an inside look at the experience of using Alosant’s ResX app. Callie oversees the Welcome Center for Sunterra, a 1,039-acre master-planned community in Katy, Texas. She shares how Alosant’s ResX app enhances the experience for potential buyers by providing clear information all in one place and how it helps integrate newcomers into Sunterra's unique community culture.
Connect with Callie
linkedin.com/in/callie-friedman-b0153714a
onplace.life/
sunterratx.com/2024-10-1510 min
Smith LaneData-Driven Placemaking | Ep. 9 with Deven SpearIn this episode of Smith Lane, we explore the intersection of data-driven technology and placemaking with Deven Spear, Co-Founder and Managing Director of OA3 and Chief Innovation Officer at Overabove Marketing. Deven delves into how OA3 is transforming real estate marketing through data-driven strategies.
Deven explains how OA3 harnesses comprehensive data on every adult in the U.S. to bridge the gap between buyers and sellers. Deven explains the innovative use of "digital exhaust" —the digital footprint left by our online activities—to gain insights into individual preferences and match them with ideal real estate opportunities and commu...2024-08-1440 min
Smith LaneRealize your vision through interior design | Ep. 8 with Lori Ann DinkinsIn this episode of Smith Lane, we sit down with Lori Ann Dinkins, President & CEO of Mood Interior Designs. Mood Interior Designs specializes in design projects for multifamily properties, student housing, and homebuilders. Lori's approach is simple yet impactful: "How can we help you achieve your vision?"
In our discussion with Lori, she emphasizes the importance of engaging designers early in the development process to maximize the full potential of a space. Lori dives into common misconceptions about the role of interior designers, and highlights how her team advocates for both the client's vision and the community's...2024-07-2348 min
Smith LaneInnovative solutions for architectural control | Ep. 7 A'Lisa OzmentIn this episode of Smith Lane, we sit down with A’Lisa Ozment to explore her inspiring journey and the evolution of her business, Architectural Plan Review (APR).
A’Lisa started as an architectural control consultant while raising her children. Her early efforts laid the groundwork for the growth of her business, and the development of innovative systems and technologies that assist developers in maintaining the vision of their builds.
During the episode, Monaca, Callie, and A’Lisa, delve into the significance of the development process, and the unique triumphs of being a female entrepreneur in thi...2024-07-0941 min
Smith LaneCreating 5-Star Communities | Ep. 6 with Matt KoratichWelcome back to Smith Lane! We are thrilled to welcome our first in-studio guest: Matt Koratich, the Director of Community Management for Lennar Homes in Southwest Florida.
Lennar, one of the largest homebuilders in the United States, prides itself on delivering exceptional community experiences with top-notch amenities and engaging programming. In our conversation, Matt delves into Lennar's holistic approach to managing these communities, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and uniting all the players—from groundskeepers to pro shop staff—under one shared vision of creating places people truly connect with and don’t want t...2024-06-2553 min
Smith LaneEveryone deserves to love where they live | Ep. 5 with April LaMonEpisode 5 of Smith Lane welcomes April LaMon, CEO and Co-Founder of Alosant, to discuss her company’s transformational mobile apps and the role they play in building community.
Alosant specializes in developing community-branded apps for master planned community residents and home shoppers that streamline information and foster community building. Having witnessed firsthand the impact of Alosant's products on various OnPlace communities, we delve into the role of connection in the emotional experience of choosing a home and engaging with a place. Join us for insights into the evolution of Alosant and its innovative approach to placemaking.
...2024-06-1145 min
Smith LaneThe importance of people in placemaking | Ep. 4 with Deana VidalWelcome to another episode of Smith Lane! We’re thrilled to present a conversation with Deana Vidal, the Director of Brand Strategy at John Burns Research & Consulting (JBREC) and a leader at the New Home Trends Institute (NHTI).
In this episode, Deana shares her fascinating work, blending her background as an architect with design and data to identify, understand, and solve consumer pain points. She describes the balance between hard insights and gut instinct, emphasizing the importance of projects evolving with the communities they serve and remaining authentic to your brand.
Through personal stories, Deana pr...2024-05-221h 00
Smith LanePartnerships play a vital role in building community | Ep. 3 with Chris McComasEpisode 3 of Smith Lane welcomes Chris McComas, the driving force behind MVP Sports & Social. Chris has turned his passion for bringing people together through athletic competitions and games into a thriving company.
Having previously collaborated, Monaca and Chris dive into the mutually beneficial relationship they forged. Their discussion delves into Chris' strategies for fostering strong community ties. MVP Sports & Social consistently creates connections thanks to its high demand and reliable turnout. What initially began as a quest to create an inclusive space quickly transformed into an exclusive club due to its rapid growth, necessitating larger facilities to...2024-05-0739 min
Smith LaneEp. 2: Following nature's blueprint with Dan Slone of Vertical VisionIn Episode 2 of Smith Lane, we sit down with the dynamic Dan Slone, an author, lawyer, and self-described “vision wallah” who co-founded Vertical Vision PLC. Join Monaca, Callie, and Dan as they delve into some subtle nuances that shape a community's identity and sense of belonging.
With over 40 years of legal practice under his belt, Dan has been instrumental in empowering local, national, and international non-profits, guiding them to tell their stories by aiding town founders in crafting narratives that enrich their communities. Moreover, he's been a catalyst for entrepreneurs striving to introduce innovative, worl...2024-04-161h 03
Smith LaneEp. 1: The Demographics of Placemaking with Lesley DeutchWelcome to Episode 1 of Smith Lane! In this episode, Monaca and Callie sit down with the remarkable Lesley Deutch, Managing Principal at John Burns Research & Consulting. With over 25 years of consulting experience within the real estate industry, Lesley brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation.
Monaca and Callie start the episode by reflecting on the role that Lesley has played in the foundation of OnPlace and establishing her credibility as an expert in the real estate industry.
Lesley then delves into the art of placemaking, emphasizing the importance of understanding demographics to create spaces t...2024-04-0243 min
Smith LaneEp. 0: Meet the hosts of Smith LaneJoin your hosts of Smith Lane Podcast, Monaca Smith Onstad and Callie Friedman, for this introductory episode!
Tune in to learn the story behind our podcast name, get to know more about the hosts, and uncover the topics we'll be diving into each month.
2024-03-2508 min
Alosant Innovator SeriesEp. 2: Designing amenities and lifestyle programs for the future with Monaca OnstadThe Alosant Innovator Series is excited to release Ep. 2 with another esteemed guest. In this episode, host April LaMon chats with Monaca Onstad, President and CEO of OnPlace, a placemaking firm that specializes in community strategy, amenity planning, and lifestyle design.
They discuss the intentionality that she and her team use to design resident-centric amenities, her successful career in community lifestyle marketing and what she sees on the horizon for the industry.
Onstad has over a decade of experience in community lifestyle management and recently launched OnPlace in 2022, which combines her passion for lifestyle and comm...2022-10-3133 min
Satoshi Analysis: All Things CryptoSatoshi Analysis Ep. 059Robinboon vs Cobinhood • Onplace ICO
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Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/satoshininjas/support2018-01-2610 min