Alosant Innovator Series
By Alosant
How Pipsy is Shaping the Future of Operations and BI for Land Developers
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we’re joined by Aaron Crawford, founder of Pipsy—a software company focused on automating the day-to-day operations of land developers. By centralizing massive amounts of data and building tools and reports around it, Pipsy helps developers make better decisions faster and stay ahead of their daily challenges.
Aaron walks us through what developers can expect during onboarding with Pipsy. He also dives into how the platform streamlines municipal reporting compliance and tracks realtor performance, bringing automation into areas that are often manual. Everything at Pipsy, Aaron emphasizes, is designed through the lens of one: Does this help the developer?
The conversation looks ahead at the future of software in land development. Aaron shares how Pipsy is developing AI, including a custom GPT-style bot, to answer developer-specific questions like, “When will I run out of 50-foot lots?” He also previews an exciting open-source initiative aimed at standardizing communication between builders and developers, offered free to help move the industry away from outdated processes.
Tune in for a deep dive into the evolving intersection of technology and land development.
Curious to learn more about the value of AI for land development? Read The Rise of AI for Land Development in Real Estate Tech.
About Aaron
Aaron Crawford is a software engineer and entrepreneur from Houston, Texas, reshaping the land development industry with cutting-edge technology. As the founder of Pipsy, an AI-powered digital assistant, Aaron has streamlined operations for over 100 master-planned communities. Pipsy automates lot inventory, sales reporting, analytics, business intelligence and daily tasks, enabling developers to focus on growth while enhancing efficiency.
Rooted in Houston’s thriving land development sector, Aaron’s passion for engineering and problem-solving drove him to create Pipsy, a platform that empowers the industry with reliable, AI-driven solutions. His technical expertise and innovative mindset have made Pipsy a trusted name, delivering actionable insights and operational excellence. Aaron’s leadership continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, constantly evolving Pipsy to meet the sector’s changing demands.
Connect with Aaron
User-Centered Interior Design: How Every Space Tells a Story | Ep. 48 with Kate Pourhassanian
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we’re joined by Kate Pourhassanian, Principal and Chief Operating Officer of Unscripted Interior Design. She shares the story of launching Unscripted with her two sisters and how their 2020 rebrand sparked a deeper commitment to storytelling within their designs.
Kate discusses how every project begins with a simple question: What is the best solution for this opportunity, and how do we want people to feel in this space? That lens of empathy and intention guides everything at Unscripted. Rather than chasing trends, Kate explains how the team leans into what’s timeless and deeply personal, grounding their design in the end user's needs.
Throughout the conversation, Kate shares how this philosophy comes to life, from a wellness retreat center in Sedona to her experience working with Toll Brothers—all approached with a spirit of curiosity. She also dives into emerging conversations in the industry, like dog parks, natural play areas for children, spaces for digital detox, and reimagining 55+ communities.
Kate reminds us that interior design isn’t just about what looks good—it’s about creating environments that support how people want to feel. This episode is a powerful exploration of design as a tool for enhancing everyday life with meaning and heart.
About Kate
Kate Pourhassanian is Principal and Chief Operating Officer of the award-winning, nationally recognized interior design firm, Unscripted Interior Design. Parlaying over 17 years of sales, marketing, and trend development within the international beauty industry into the creative discipline of interior design, Kate brings fresh perspective to the home building and development sector. Fusing an educational background in spiritual formation and international beauty-brand education and development, Kate has a passion for the intersectionality of personal growth and the creative workplace. Additionally, Kate is the current Chair of HBA Metro Denver’s Council board, advisory member of the SMC Board and the Board of Directors for the International Enneagram Association, where Kate integrates these disciplines through coaching and speaking engagements, and with her team at Unscripted.
Connect with Kate
Life Before Buildings: Insights from a Leading Placemaking Perspective with Phil Myrick
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we welcome Phil Myrick, placemaking expert and CEO of Phil Myrick LLC. Guided by the concept of “life first and then buildings,” Phil is known for his ability to dig beneath the surface and understand what makes a place magnetic.
Throughout the episode, Phil walks listeners through his approach to designing spaces that invite connection. He shares his step-by-step method, beginning with imagining the kind of life and energy you want to see in a space. From there, it's about identifying goals for the experience and crafting a program of behaviors.
Phil also shares real-world examples, including his work on Pearl in San Antonio—a dynamic redevelopment of a former brewery that has become a beloved spot for locals. With its curated mix of dining and retail, the Pearl demonstrates how authenticity and intentional design can create a win-win for both community and development. He also highlights successes in places like Laguna Beach and introduces the concept of triangulation—how placing three appealing elements close together can organically foster connection.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in a deep dive into placemaking, featuring detailed examples and thoughtful discussion.
About Phil
Phil Myrick is former CEO of Project for Public Spaces and a leading expert in placemaking and creating collision spaces. Applying decades of research into how people interact with their environments and each other, Phil helps his clients to create vibrant places, destinations, districts, and developments. As a 20-year veteran of PPS, he has worked with a diverse and international spectrum of municipalities, nonprofits, universities, cultural destinations, and mixed-use developments.
Phil’s impact is illustrated by the long list of awards to his clients coming from leading organizations like the Urban Land Institute, the American Planning Association, and the American Institute of Architects. Some of his hallmark public space projects are Discovery Green in Houston, Times Square, and the Canalside waterfront in Buffalo. His work with Harvard and the University of Texas has helped to strengthen campus social life and spark the informal interactions that are so important to the exchange of ideas.
Connect with Phil
The Psychology of Place with Kevin Kelley
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we sit down with Kevin Kelley—architect, author, and co-founder of Shook Kelley, a strategic design firm with over three decades of experience.
Kevin has dedicated his career to analyzing places and their impact on society. His book, IRREPLACEABLE: How to Create Extraordinary Places That Bring People Together, explores these themes in depth, making this conversation essential for anyone whose business revolves around place.
April and Kevin discuss the evolution of design and perception management, shifting from architecture as object-making to creating community-oriented spaces. Kevin shares his philosophy of "scene-making," comparing architecture to filmmaking, where foreground, midground, and background work together to evoke emotions and engage the senses.
A key theme of the discussion is the role of sensory experience in shaping human connection to space, arguing that traditional placemaking often neglects the biological and emotional factors influencing how people interact with their surroundings.
Their conversation also delves into Kevin's "black bag" metaphor—the idea that people bring their stresses, anxieties, and aspirations into a space, and design should acknowledge these human factors. Kevin also introduces the concept of a "social bonfire"—spaces designed to bring strangers together and foster cooperation in an increasingly transactional world.
Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how, by prioritizing social proof and analyzing human nature, placemakers can craft environments that truly resonate.
About Kevin
Kevin Ervin Kelley, AIA, is a principal of Shook Kelley, a strategic design firm he cofounded in 1992 with Terry Shook, FAIA, in Charlotte, NC. Since 2002, Kevin has headed the firm's Los Angeles office and has worked with a team of Perception Managers and Experience Designers. Kevin holds two degrees in architecture from the University of NC at Charlotte and has spent much of his career developing a process that combines business, science, and design into one integrated approach he calls perception design. Kevin’s specialty is getting inside the minds of consumers to determine how the physical environment affects their behaviors, perceptions, and purchase decisions.
Kevin has worked closely with the executive leaders of many well-known companies, such as Harley-Davidson, Whole Foods, Kroger, Kraft, Harris Teeter, Cadbury, The J.M. Smucker Company, Gelsons, Northgate Markets, The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), The Cleveland Orchestra, NFL teams, and USAA in their efforts to develop new kinds of immersive brand experiences that have the power to convene people in places. He has also worked with many global cities and urban districts, such as the City of Makati, South End, Third Street Promenade, Beverly Hills, etc.
He has been an adjunct professor at Harvard University for 11 years and at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for six years, teaching design, branding, and consumer behavior.
Connect with Kevin
The Power of Lifestyle in Community Building
This 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 building anticipation before a community launch, and approaches to navigating emerging lifestyle trends.
The episode concludes with advice for those looking to enter the lifestyle industry, underscoring the need for passion, adaptability, and a deep understanding of community dynamics.
About The Panelists
Amanda Arnold, Vice President of Lifestyle at OnPlace
With a track record of leadership in the lifestyle space, Amanda leads OnPlace’s lifestyle operations across the country. She is passionate about creating and fostering community, and is on a mission to elevate the lifestyle industry through effective communication and training.
Erin Contino, Communication & Creative Services Manager at Rancho Mission Viejo
With twelve years of experience in strategic integrated communications, Erin brings an innovative and results-driven approach to the lifestyle property management industry. In her role as Communications & Creative Services Manager at Rancho Mission Viejo, she oversees three unique brand entities and help design and promote over 250 events each year, including 12 large-scale signature gatherings. Her approach is all about building strong teams, aligning strategic goals, and creating experiences that exceed expectations.
Karlien Cordier, Division Lifestyle Director for Toll Brothers
Karlien is a specialist in people and experience curation, boasting more than 14 years of extensive experience within the event industry. Her approach to events is marked by curiosity, innovation, and a resolute commitment to challenging conventions. By diligently seeking to comprehend individuals, products, and brands through collaborative efforts with multidisciplinary teams, she has successfully crafted events that authentically convey the values of the products and brands they represent, while fostering communities and ecosystems that align with the shared values and objectives of the community at large.
Lauren Brown, Lifestyle Program Director at Brighton Corporation
Lauren Brown has been shaping the landscape of lifestyle communities for almost 7 years as the Lifestyle Program Director for Brighton Corporation. From launching their inaugural Lifestyle community to spearheading the growth of the Brighton Lifestyle brand, Lauren has played a key role in their evolution. She's now leading the charge as Brighton expands into Pinnacle, its first master planned lifestyle community, building upon their successful foundation in 55+ communities.
Monica Hollins, Founder and President of Outside The Box Consulting
Monica Hollins draws on over two decades of industry expertise in her current roles. She previously served as National Director of Lifestyle Services Consultant at Associa (2023-2024) and has been working as a strategic advisor in the position of Chief Wellness Experience Officer since May 2024. In this role, she specializes in build-to-rent communities and implements the Zeal for Living Pillars throughout their wellness communities.
John Darby: The Beach Company legacy leads to Kiawah River
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we sit down with John Darby, CEO and Chairman of the Board of The Beach Company, a fifth-generation real estate development company based in Charleston.
John shares the company’s origin story, beginning with his grandfather acquiring land to build affordable housing for WWII veterans—an early example of The Beach Company’s commitment to community investment. Today, the company operates in 27 cities, managing construction, brokerage, master-planned communities, and mixed-use developments. Notably, John details how the company continues their legacy of giving back by supporting nonprofits at both groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting ceremonies in the communities they build.
A standout example of The Beach Company’s work is Kiawah River on Saint John’s Island. To differentiate the development from well-established neighboring communities, John explains how they embraced the natural landscape and partnered with local farmers. He explains how features like a farm stand and a “goatery” helped weave agriculture into the community’s identity. John also shares key decisions, such as choosing a boutique hotel over a large-scale resort, ensuring the development remains true to the existing character.
We also discuss the success of Kiawah River’s Southern Living Idea Home, which attracted over 20,000 visitors and highlights the unique lifestyle they are cultivating. John shares key lessons learned from the project, from managing construction traffic to fostering seamless integration between hotel guests and residents. He also discusses how the Alosant App, with an impressive 80% adoption rate in only 4 weeks, is helping solve these challenges.
Join us for this insightful conversation as John Darby shares how The Beach Company is redefining community development while honoring its legacy of thoughtful investment.
Mike Swanson goes deep on Alosant and DataBridgeAI
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we sit down with Mike Swanson, Co-Founder of Alosant. Throughout the episode we explore Mike’s journey to the company and delve into the origin and purpose of DataBridgeAI, a new product from Alosant.
Mike shares valuable insights from his diverse career—spanning the music industry, medical research, and ultimately co-founding Alosant. A common thread throughout his journey is a passion for developing innovative solutions that foster connections between people.
Mike explains that Alosant was founded out of a desire to solve core community challenges. Inspired by Paul Johnson of Rancho Mission Viejo, Mike and April sought to leverage technology to enhance, rather than replace, in-person connections. This philosophy continues to guide Alosant’s work as they identify friction points in communities and use thoughtful technology-based solutions to resolve them.
A key part of the conversation focuses on AI and its role in the industry. Mike emphasizes that tech companies should never push businesses to adopt AI in ways that feel inauthentic or conflict with their established operations. Instead, AI should be used to develop agreed-upon solutions that truly serve residents and community teams.
This segues into Mike introducing the latest innovation at Alosant: DataBridge AI. This tool leverages AI to mine data, connecting residents with experiences they’ll love. By consolidating siloed data across the homebuilding, land development, and property management teams, DataBridge AI connects residents with meaningful, curated experiences.
Throughout the episode, gain valuable insights and philosophies on the industry from an innovative thinker, and explore Alosant’s new resident-centered, data-informed solutions.
About Mike:
Michael Swanson is the Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Alosant Inc., a premier real estate technology company based in Bozeman, Montana. Established in 2018 alongside business partner April LaMon, Alosant specializes in creating mobile-first platforms that enhance lifestyle experiences within master-planned communities. Their flagship product, Alosant ResX, serves over 120 real estate communities nationwide, connecting more than 350,000 residents, prospects, and commercial partners.
Swanson brings over 15 years of building technology to foster human connection at large enterprises such as University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Atlantic Records, Warner Music Group and more.
Swanson’s commitment to fostering authentic connections within communities is evident in Alosant’s mission to build technology that brings real people together, creating a true sense of belonging.
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Creating Emotional Connection: Insights from Black Tomato’s Approach
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, April LaMon sits down with Tom Marchant, Co-Founder of Black Tomato, to explore his journey in redefining travel and hospitality.
Black Tomato was born from a desire to offer travelers more than just a destination—it’s about delivering experiences and evoking feelings. Tom explains how the company’s approach emerged from a market gap: while travelers may not always know where they want to go, they often know how they want to feel.
The company thrives by challenging antiquated travel industry conventions. Tom underscores the value of fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation and approaching everything with an unconventional mindset. He describes the concept of "adjacent opportunities," where you explore alternative approaches just beyond conventional methods.
We also dive deep into the topic of feeling, with Tom explaining how their company is driven to craft experiences rooted in how people want to feel. April draws parallels between Tom’s insights and the homebuilding and placemaking industries, emphasizing how marketing homes could focus not just on features like square footage but on the emotions and experiences they offer. They explore ways to help prospective buyers connect how they want to feel with how a home can provide that feeling.
This conversation challenges listeners to move beyond commodification and traditional industry approaches, fostering a mindset of innovation, curiosity, and deeper connections to how people want to feel.
About Tom:
Tom Marchant is co-founder of tailormade luxury tour operator Black Tomato, launched in 2005 with the aim to inspire and foster emotional connectivity through the power of remarkable travel experiences. Described by Harper’s Bazaar as “having a finger on the pulse of travel that is incomparable,” his experience shaping the business globally has enabled a deep understanding of different markets. Tom’s innovative mindset has been lauded across the luxury travel sector, including the past six years as a Conde Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist in addition to holding a number of influential board positions at prestigious brands targeting UHNWs/HNWs including Six Senses and Kerzner International.
With an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for travel instilled from a young age, Tom has been leading Black Tomato’s business development, marketing and creative strategies for the past 20 years, working alongside his fellow co-founder James Merrett on driving the company’s successful growth. A creative ethos and obsession with innovation has led to Tom and the brand being consistently named best in class, including Inc’s Best in Business 2024 list, Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards 2024, Travel + Leisure World’s Best Tour Operator 2024, and Robb Report Travel Masters Awards 2024 as Master of Luxury, Travel. He also frequently speaks at global conferences and academic institutions such as Harvard Business School, sharing his expertise on travel innovation and trends, and is regularly featured in podcasts, broadcast segments, and key publications, including The New York Times, Vogue, Bloomberg, Condé Nast Traveler, and the Financial Times.
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Innovation in Architectural Control: Insights from APR Founder A'Lisa Ozment
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, we sit down with A’Lisa Ozment, Founder and CEO of Architectural Plan Review (APR). With over 25 years of experience, A’Lisa shares how her fascination with homebuilding led to entrepreneurship. She founded APR, a company that manages architectural control for master-planned residential communities.
A’Lisa highlights APR’s role as a liaison between developers and builders, ensuring the developer's vision is maintained throughout the building process. She underscores the importance of approaching architectural control as collaborative rather than punitive, to create beautiful and valuable communities for homeowners.
We dive into her passion for technology and innovation, including the development of APRTrac — an interactive dashboard that keeps developers and builders aligned while tracking crucial elements, such as homeowner modification requests. Looking ahead, APR continues to evolve, with APRTrac 3.0 promising enhanced builder reporting and interactive mapping features.
A’Lisa also offers advice from her career about embracing opportunities and the importance of jumping into new endeavors. Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, technology, and building communities with value.
About A’Lisa:
A'Lisa Ozment is the founder and CEO of Architectural Plan Review (APR), where her team ensures high-end, master-planned communities maintain their architectural and aesthetic vision throughout development. Partnering with top developers and builders across the US, the APR team provides all aspects of architectural control management including the creation of Design Guidelines, detailed plan reviews, and inspection of completed homes. APR is the leader in leveraging technology to streamline the architectural control processes and enhance transparency with their in-house platform, APRTrac.
Starting as a customer service admin for an Austin homebuilder and later serving on the architectural board for Steiner Ranch, A'Lisa gained invaluable experience that inspired her to launch APR in 2000. APR has since grown to 17 team members with clients in four states. APR's latest innovation, APRTrac 3.0, will provide an even cleaner dashboard experience along with enhanced features. Coming in 2025!
"I’m passionate about using architectural control to maintain the vision and value for residential communities while driving innovation and excellence in our field through the use of technology."
Connect with A’Lisa:
2024 Community Trends: The Alosant App in Action
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, Tara Trevino, Director of Customer Operations at Alosant, explores the top community trends of 2024 and how the Alosant app is driving them forward.
Learn how resident-created content transforms engagement and how app-enabled gear garages make outdoor living more accessible. Tara also highlights the growing emphasis on wellness, with popular amenities like pickleball courts and bocce tournaments supported by the Alosant app for reservations. You'll also discover how augmented reality and interactive maps enhance community trail networks and how "retail moments" redefine local shopping experiences—all through the Alosant app.
Tune in for valuable insights into how the Alosant app is shaping communities as we move into 2025.
About Tara:
I graduated with my MBA in 2011 from Lamar University. I began my career in Marketing and Sales. I moved to Dallas in 2017 and joined the startup community, specializing in Customer Operations for early stage tech. I fell in love with Customer Operations and creating solutions for new businesses and products. I joined Alosant in April 2024 as Director of Customer Operations and moved to Bozeman this year with my wife, son and our three cats!
Connect with Tara:
Agrihoods and Innovative Community Development with Scott Snodgrass
Crafting community-focused dream experiences
The Art of Early Lifestyle Programming at Sunterra
In 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
Maximizing community potential through experiences with Nick Smoot
Industry experts on the homebuyer experience
The home buying experience is inherently stressful. In the current market, various factors impact the homebuyer's emotions and the outcome of the purchasing experience.
In Episode 35 of the Alosant Innovator Series, we revisit conversations with industry experts on how to approach the home buying experience, highlighting insights about what drives decision-making and how to approach the process through the lens of the buyer.
You’ll hear from industry leaders like Paul Johnson, Barbara Wray, Jeff Shore, Lita Dirks, and Deborah Blake as they break down the opportunities to enhance the home buying experience.
Listen to the full episodes:
Ep. 1: The future of community development
Ep. 17: Who's buying homes right now, & what matters most to them.
Ep. 18: Simpler is righter, remove friction to simplify the home buying process.
Ep. 22: Design decisions that shape the emotional readiness of homebuyers
Ep. 33: Deborah Blake talks about opportunities in today's active adult market
Ep. 34: Grant Syth, on developing Blackwood Groves in Bozeman, MT
Episode 34 of the Alosant Innovator Series features Grant Syth, Principal at Bridger Land Group.
Grant takes us on a journey from his roots in his family’s construction business to pioneering the Blackwood Groves development in Bozeman.
Leveraging the design, lifestyle and experience principles learned while at Discovery Land, Grant and the Bridger Land Group team focuses on applying those principles to the broader market rather than exclusively for the top 1%.
Grant provides insights into navigating geography and raising capital in emerging markets. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing patience to achieve success in projects where the goal is to create something unique and enduring, rather than following transient trends.
Ep. 33: Deborah Blake talks about opportunities in today’s active adult market
Welcome to Episode 33 of the Alosant Innovator Series! We're joined by Deborah Blake, Principal at The Ipsum Group. With decades of experience in 55+ active adult real estate development, Deborah shares her thoughts on the market and how it is evolving.
Today’s 55+ buyers are less interested in “retirement” than “what’s next”. Deborah explores the value of doing thorough research that may reveal opportunities for relevance, like enabling self-funded passion projects, encouraging giving back and incorporating ‘“Blue Zones” inspiration.
Deborah and April begin by talking about the "Baby Boomer" generation. They dive into why these folks aren't all the same and break up some common stereotypes about them. The latest 55+ adults are shaking up the traditional retirement scene, and Deborah is perfectly positioned to stay on top of these changes.
Deborah digs into why it's crucial to focus on more than demographics. She explains the importance of understanding their interests and needs. Using examples from Amblebrook, in Gettysburg, PA, she shares real-world wellness partnerships and amenities using biophilic design principles.
Ep. 32: Storytelling in real estate, with Jaimee Reinertsen of SparkFire Branding
Ep. 31: Texas developer John Marlin, “Elevon will sell 500+ homes in 2024”
Ep. 30: Lesley Deutch of John Burns shares her outlook for 2024
The 30th episode of the Alosant Innovator Series features Lesley Deutch, Managing Principal at John Burns Research and Consulting. Lesley has more than 25 years of consulting experience - working across a wide spectrum of the real estate industry.
Lesley stresses the importance of understanding the demographics of your potential customers, and providing amenities tailored to them. She goes on to share stories demonstrating how this approach has given her and her consulting clients a competitive advantage.
Lesley also shares her perspective on the state of the real estate market in 2024.
Click above to listen on your platform of choice.
Connect with Lesley:
Learn more about John Burns Research and Consulting
Ep. 29: Dan Grosswald talks Newfield, the ambitious project from Mattamy Homes
Episode 29 of the Alosant Innovator Series features Dan Grosswald, Division President SE Florida at Mattamy Homes.
Dan lays out the vision of Newfield and its unique features for residents, as well as some of the obstacles they’ve faced along the way and how they overcame them.
Dan unpacks some of the planning, programming, product segmentation, and community outreach efforts that are making the project feel like a natural addition to the community at large.
Websites:
Instagram:
- https://www.instagram.com/newfield_fl/
- https://www.instagram.com/newfield_farm/
- https://www.instagram.com/kc_trails/
Facebook:
- Newfield: https://www.facebook.com/NewfieldFL
- Newfield Farm: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089714036423
- KC Trails: https://www.facebook.com/KCTrailsFL
Ep. 28: Mark Kehke on the opportunity for creativity in real estate
Ep. 27: What advice would an industry legend give to their younger self?
The 27th episode of the Alosant Innovator Series is a special episode, which features a compilation of segments from previous podcast guests. In every episode, April asks her guest, “What advice would you give to your 25-year-old self?” Episode 27 highlights and showcases some of the very best answers to that question from the first 26 episodes.
We chose 5 guests to highlight, but there is so much more wisdom contained in the answers from all of the guests we’ve hosted since launching the podcast. If you like what you hear, we encourage you to go back in our episode catalog and find more valuable insights.
Find the full episodes for each of the highlighted guests below.
Rick Severance- Ep. 5: Designing one of the fastest selling master planned communities in the U.S.
Fred Balda- Ep. 7: Fred Balda talks straight about the market, values, and leadership.
Mollie Carmichael- Ep. 10: Mollie Carmichael discusses the impact of VR on master planned communities
Craig Collin- Ep. 23: Craig Collin grapples with macro housing trends leading into 2024
Christina Acuña- Ep. 25: Decentralized approach to development gains traction
Ep. 26: Jim Dobbie talks about Zeal for Living
Jim Dobbie is founder and CEO of Zeal for Living, a real estate development company focused on creating rental Wellness Living Communities for all ages.
Jim shares examples of the Zeal approach from simple lighting choices that can alter the quality of sleep to smart appliances that warn of maintenance needs before significant problems can occur.
He goes on to elaborate on the challenge of embracing new technology in the face of rapid innovation.
Click below to listen to the full conversation.
Ep. 25: Decentralized approach to development gains tractions: Tom Woliver and Christina Acuna
Episode 25 of the Alosant Innovator Series features two guests, Tom Woliver, co-president of Oxland Group and Christina Acuna, owner & founder of Paper Lot Marketing.
Before digging into the details about what has made the Painted Tree and Two Step Farm communities so successful and inspiring, April, Tom & Christina discuss how vital their outsider perspectives were when re-envisioning the old-school models surrounding community planning.
Tom and Christina both share lots of wisdom around lessons that they’ve learned so far with their communities, new approaches they’re trying out, and general life advice.
Ep. 24: Leading Homebuilder Fractional CMO Jennifer Cooper talks marketing best practices
In Ep. 24 of the Alosant Innovator Series, April is joined by Jennifer Cooper, Founder of Evolution Marketing and Fractional CMO.
Jennifer fell in love with the home building industry as a teenage, obsessed with interior design. Purchasing a home being a major decision, she finds great joy in being a part of that journey with people.
Jennifer partners with top home builders in the country as a Fractional CMO, delivering strategic planning and results-oriented marketing.
Listen to the full episode to learn today’s home marketing best practices, how to best stage a model home, and how the Design Center is still providing value.
Ep. 23: Craig Collin grapples with macro housing trends leading into 2024
In the 23rd episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, April speaks with Craig Collin, President and COO of Tavistock Development Company.
Craig firmly believes that he and his team are curating not just homes, but communities and lifestyles for their residents to assimilate to.
In the episode Craig speaks to housing affordability macro trends and the exponentially expanding technological advancements in PropTech and the importance of adapting with them.
Ep. 22: Lita Dirks on design decisions that shape the emotional readiness of homebuyers
In the 22nd episode of the Alosant Innovators Series, April speaks with Lita Dirks of Lita Dirks & Co.
Lita is an interior designer passionate about creating positive emotions with potential homebuyers, and creating a deep desire to live there. That is what Lita Dirks & Co. has been doing successfully for more than 25 years.
They discuss design, marketing, branding, and merchandising principles implemented when decorating model homes, and how subtle creative decisions can shape the emotional experience of homebuyers. No piece of furniture is randomly oriented. Mirrors are placed so shoppers can envision themselves in the home. It's not trickery - it's strategic interior design intended to evoke emotional reactions from potential customers, bringing them closer to making the purchase.
Lita reminds us that it's important to not lose sight of the forest through the trees. The main reason that she does the work that she does is to support people. Individuals who are all at unique stages of their home-buying experiences, and are seeking emotionally supportive and comforting sellers rather than cold salespeople.
Connect with Lita
Ep. 21: Ivory Innovations spurs housing affordability solutions
In the 21st episode of the Alosant Innovators Series, April LaMon speaks with Jenna Louie, Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer at Ivory Innovations.
Ivory Innovations seeks to promote the most compelling ideas in housing affordability by working across sectors, providing monetary awards for groundbreaking innovations and leveraging its network and resources. The organization seeks to find and boost the profiles of innovative housing entrepreneurs, and to bring their ideas into the mainstream.
Jenna has worked an enriching career furthering Diversity, Equity & Inclusion across multiple industries. She has found a home, and a passion, working to increase housing affordability with Ivory Innovations.
April and Jenna discuss all of the key initiatives that Ivory Innovations focuses on. Topics include:
Engaging students & interns to create passion for housing affordability in future generations
The Ivory Prize: a prize given to various innovative entrepreneurs and businesses with revolutionary housing ideas
Providing Education resources to developers
Past Ivory Prize Winners and what they've already contributed
This episode is full of insights and tips regarding how developers can strive to close some housing gaps and create a more equitable and inclusive housing environment in our communities.
Jenna encourages listeners to utilize the innovation database on their website which contains the collection of innovative ideas and businesses from applicants who have participated in the Ivory Prize competition over the years. You can find it at https://ivoryinnovations.org/database.
Ep. 20: Jane Arthur-Roslovic talks Active Adult for Rent
Episode 20 of the Alosant Innovator Series features a conversation between host April LaMon and Jane Arthur-Roslovic, CEO, Co-Founder at Treplus Communities.
Based in Columbus Ohio, Treplus Communities offers newly-evolving living options to active adults.
Jane describes how, often, their residents have owned their own homes for decades, and cash in the equity they’ve built to downsize. She shares some historical context to explain how our society has changed the definition of “senior care” many times, and how Treplus Communities is redefining it again through a for-rent model.Listen to the full episode for new perspectives on senior care in the modern day and Jane’s passion for acquiring real estate for the purpose of building communities and connections.
Ep. 19: Senior living as a service with Matt Thornhill
In this episode, host April LaMon, Co-founder and CEO of Alosant is joined by Matt Thornhill, Founder of Cozy Home Community.
Matt has spent his career understanding the behavior of older adults. Matt ran a think tank called The Boomer Project, where he helped big companies like Nasa, Hersheys, and Google understand the boomer generation.
In 2020 Matt founded Cozy Home Community. Back in 2016, senior care facilities began reaching out to Matt to understand older adults better. Through the research and interaction with these facilities, Matt saw an opportunity to do senior living differently.
Matt saw the senior care industry as bifurcated, with no product for the massive middle. It was clear to Matt that the future of senior living was to provide it as a service. His vision is to build homes for older adults that bring individuals together and bring services to that community.
Listen to the full episode to learn more about the first Cozy Home Community going beginning construction this fall, how senior care facilities and universities are looking to leverage the concept, and the creative approach Matt takes to accelerate human connection amongst residents through the Get Cozy profile.
Connect with Matt
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattthornhill/
Learn more about Cozy Home Community: https://www.cozyhomecommunity.com
Ep. 18: Simpler is righter, remove friction to simplify the home buying process with Jeff Shore
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, host April LaMon is joined by Jeff Shore, Founder at Shore Consulting Inc.
Jeff dives into decision-making theory and how it applies to selling homes and the home-buying process. Jeff details how he architects the home buying process around conscious decisions that the buyer makes in order to focus their decision making, avoid fatigue, and make sure they get what they want.
Listen to the full episode for a slew of tips, insights, and practices on how to minimize decision fatigue, create space for mental reset, and foster more trust with your buyers.
Sales & Marketing Summit 2023
Check out Jeff’s 17th Annual Sales and Marketing Summit being held in Nashville July 25-27. Tickets are still on sale for the premier event for new home sales & marketing professionals. Get Your Ticket Today.
Connect with Jeff
Learn More about Shore Consulting, Inc
About Shore Consulting
Shore Consulting, Inc. is a company specializing in consumer psychology and customer experience training programs for homebuilders. Using these modern, game-changing techniques, Jeff Shore’s clients delivered over 145,000 new homes generating $54 billion in revenue last year.
Ep. 17: Who's buying homes right now & what matters most to them with Barbara Wray
Ep. 16: Baby Boomers: A new way to think about aging with Dan Hutson
The latest episode of the Alosant Innovator Series features a conversation between host April LaMon and Dan Hutson, Head of Marketing at Priya Living. Dan and April discuss a new way of thinking about aging for Baby Boomers.
In this conversation, Dan challenges the industry to think differently about the lived environment for Baby Boomers. Dan's passion for this population is evident as he brings many powerful insights to how we understand the needs of seniors. With the human life expectancy on the rise, Dan explains what could be the future of designed environments for seniors to feel fulfilled, inspired, healthy, and creative. Dan calls the industry to action to mix the real estate and experience angles of senior living to provide a more unique experience for Baby Boomers in their last 30 years of life.
Priya Living focuses on combining culturally-relevant elements of their Indian-American target audience with what’s relevant to people later in life. In addition to a physical lived experience, Priya Living offers products and services that serve key emotional needs of those living in their third stage of life.
Connect with Dan
Presented By Alosant Azul
The Alosant Innovator Series is presented by Alosant Azul, the scalable access control platform that seamlessly allows your residents to explore your entire community without ever needing a key fob. Learn how and why you should have mobilized access control for your community.
Ep. 15: Pfil Hunt demystifies special district financing for MPCs
Welcome back to the Alosant Innovator Series. In our 15th episode, host April LaMon is joined by Pfilip Hunt, Partner at Wrathell Hunt & Associates.
In this episode, Pfil demystifies special district financing options for master planned communities, and talks more specifically about why developers leverage these tools, the upside for those involved in said project, and more.
Special Districts are a way for developers to fund public infrastructure like bridges, roads, water, and infrastructure using tax-exempt municipal bonds.
If you’re a developer exploring different financing options, Pfil describes this tool is most appropriate when you have a heavy infrastructure cost spread across many units (minimum thresholds approx. 300 resident units, 300-400k sqft on a commercial project).
Wrathell Hunt & Associates are working on a few large-scale urban infill projects in the Miami area, of which include Midtown Miami and Miami Worldcenter.
Looking ahead, Wrathell Hunt & Associates have their sights set on creating a CDD law in the legislature of Georgia and Tennessee and get these financing tools available for developers in those states to foster more development.
Connect with Pfil
Ep. 14: Teri Slavik-Tsuyuki recaps key findings from America at Home Study
In episode 14, host April LaMon is joined by Teri Slavik-Tsuyuki, Principal + Storyteller at tst ink llc.
Teri discusses the key insights and takeaways from the America at Home Study, which directly tested consumer sentiment considering COVID-19 to understand the design changes consumers want in homes and communities.
Teri spends her time working with developers, builders, entrepreneurs, and placemakers to try and connect with what matters to people most, then leverage those insights to design homes and communities.
Listen to the full episode to learn more about how the insights from the America at Home Study are fueling the future of home building and communities.
About tst ink
tst ink exists to motivate everyone to see the “so what factor” in the little things and turn those observations into places and experiences that make the world a better place. Teri’s work has been featured in major business media including USA Today, Forbes, Washington Post, and numerous industry and trade media. She is a frequent and engaging public speaker and facilitator comfortable on big stages at national events and in custom-designed focused workshops.
Connect with Teri
America at Home Study website: https://www.americaathomestudy.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-slavik-tsuyuki-400b273/
Ep. 13: Peter Dennehy explores geographic mobility and future housing trends
Welcome back to the Alosant Innovator Series. In episode 13, host April LaMon is joined by Peter Dennehy, VP of Customer and Market Insights at Brookfield Properties.
April and Peter discuss ‘geographic mobility’ and the trends he observes within Brookfield communities on where people are moving, and why, after the pandemic. Peter recently presented at the New Home Trends Summit hosted by John Burns Research & Consulting, where he spoke on migration trends and their impact on growing markets.
In addition to geographic mobility, Peter and April discuss the introduction of Gen Z buyers to the home buying market and how product within master planned communities is being designed to accommodate this emerging generation of buyers.
Connect with Peter
Ep. 12: Richard Martz describes the future of Complete Communities and the 15 minute city
In episode 12 of the Alosant Innovator Series, Richard Martz joins host April LaMon for a conversation on the future of Complete Communities, LWLP's newest landmark project in Collingwood, and how the teams at LWLP identify anchors and big moves to transform projects.
Richard has spent over 15 years strategizing, planning and leading LWLP's large-scale developments, complex anchor deal-making and specialty leasing efforts through North America on a diverse range of LWLP's mixed-use and legacy projects.
Listen to the full episode for an engaging conversation on the future of communities, strategy behind identifying key pillars of a project, and much more.
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Connect with Richard
Ep. 11: Christen Johnson discusses the future of collaboration between development and marketing
Welcome back to the Alosant Innovator Series. For the second episode in Women’s History Month, host April LaMon is joined by Christen Johnson, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Johnson Development Corp.
Christen and April discuss the future of collaboration between marketing and development teams, JDC’s commitment to sustainability and how that translates into community design, and finally how Johnson Development Corp is leveraging technology like community branded apps to extend their brands and activate resident engagement.
Since starting her current position in 2016, Christen has seen the collaboration between development and marketing change drastically. Years ago, land development teams would hand over projects after they were complete, and marketing would have to fill in the gaps.
Now a new standard for the future exists, in which the most successful communities craft a story, a fabric in which residents are excited to be a part of and represent. This expectation catalyzed development, lifestyle, operations, marketing, and other key teams to collaborate before stakes go in the ground to ensure that all pillars of the project are connected, creating this succinct experience for the home shopper, guest, and resident.
Christen’s favorite part of her role is bringing sketches and early ideas to life, knowing that people and their families will enjoy the community for decades to come.
When asked about the role of technology throughout JDC’s communities, Christen was quick to acknowledge that the use of tasteful, usable, relevant technology at communities is what ignities lifestyle, programming, and operations.
JDC communities leverage community branded apps that bring everything from events, dinner reservations, digital access credentials, info, and much more all into one branded mobile app.
Connect with Christen
Ep. 10: Mollie Carmichael discusses the impact of VR and the metaverse on master planned communities
Welcome back to the Alosant Innovator Series. In our tenth episode, host April LaMon is joined by Mollie Carmichael, Principal at Zonda, for a conversation on the intersection between research and home building, and how virtual reality and the metaverse is forever changing the way homes are shown, bought, and sold.
It is with no doubt that mentions of the Metaverse and Virtual or Augmented Reality have consumed much of the internet since COVID-19. Introduced to VR from her son, Mollie discusses her take on how VR has and will continue to shift how homes are shown, bought, and sold. For master planned communities, Mollie sees a large opportunity for master planned communities to build virtual environments where potential residents can walk the community, explore amenities, view model homes, and more right from their desktop of VR headset.
For the potential resident Mollie sees how, through the proper application of VR, confidence can be instilled and the decision to buy can be de-risked by providing a life-like, easy to navigate experience that is accessible on any device. The efficiency and accessibility that virtual reality provides the real estate industry is grand, and since the start of COVID Mollie has seen a shift towards the attention that leading firms are placing on integrating VR into their marketing and sales strategies.
About Mollie
Mollie began her career in development, then home building, before finding a role grounded in consulting that combines her development and home building experiences with her passion for consulting and market research. For the past 16 years as a Principal at Zonda, Mollie works on consumer research, strategy, planning, finance, advisory, and much more. Mollie’s commitment to primary research has cemented her expertise in providing firms with the knowledge they need to be successful.
Connect with Mollie
Connect with Mollie on LinkedIn
Ep. 9: Dave Gilmore discusses the Massive Middle and the Rise of Proximity
In Ep. 9 of the Alosant Innovator Series, host April LaMon is joined by Dave Gilmore, CEO of DesignIntelligence.
Amongst a breadth of engaging topics discussed throughout the episode, the conversation revolved around a new challenge that will face the housing market. Dave labels the challengers to the industry the Massive Middle.
10,000 new people in the United States turn 65 everyday. With medicine and science enhancing life expectancy, this generation will live longer than ever before. Longer lifespan will affect their decision as to where they will live in the later parts of their life. The Massive Middle generation is also the wealthiest, with billions of dollars in equity tied up in real estate, some assets of which that don’t have a mortgage.
In the conversation Dave talks about the Great Opportunity for the Massive Middle, and how they are primed to unlock wealth through liquidating the equity they have in their homes and relocating to Active Adult, senior communities, and assisted care.
Dave sees an opportunity for the industry to create affordable, accessible, and high quality products for this generation. He predicts a shift in the accessibility of amenities and services to residents, calling it the Rise of Proximity - the reintegration of services closer to home, in this case within the community. Communities will now build acute care facilities within its plan to provide more accessible care to residents. Subtle yet impactful changes to the resident experience that Dave mentions in the episode include more places for residents to walk and recover in shade throughout popular walking trails.
Listen to the full episode to hear Dave and April talk more about the challenges the industry will face with the Massive Middle, the Rise of Proximity, and much more.
About DesignIntelligence
DesignIntelligence is made up of a series of business units such as media groups, a research organization, strategic advisory group, capital advisors group, and more. The Design Futures Council is a think tank organization that brings together people multiple times a year and discuss the future of the built environment across a series of themes. The DesignIntelligence Leadership Institute is focused on an expansive set of curriculum that is brought to firms on the redefining and understanding of leadership.
Connect with Dave Gilmore
Ep. 8: Debra Wyatte talks connecting brand pillars to all aspects of a project
In Ep. 8 of the Alosant Innovator Series, host April LaMon is joined by Debra Wyatte for a conversation on the importance of connecting brand pillars to all aspects of a project, challenges the industry may face with Gen Z buyers entering the market, and more.
President of WE Consulting, Debra explains how she works with communities to examine and align many aspects of the project with their brand pillars. She also discusses how she helps communities measure and analyze this work.
Visit the Alosant Innovator Series to read more.
Ep. 7: Fred Balda talks straight about the market, values, and leadership.
President of Hillwood Communities since 1992, Fred is instrumental in providing leadership in operations, acquisitions, design, and. development at Hillwood.
Fred's experience in development spans more than 100 master-planned communities across 13 states and two countries. He is dedicated to thoughtful placemaking -- designing and developing communities that inspire a sense of belonging amongst community members and creates long lasting value for everyone involved.
Read the full show summary at www.alosantinnovatorseries.com/episode7
Ep. 6: Innovation Way at Babcock Ranch, home building for the future with Tom Hoban
Welcome back to the Alosant Innovator Series. In the first episode of season 2, April LaMon is joined by Tom Hoban Owner at Kitson and Partners.
Mission, Vision, and Today at Babcock Ranch
Tom and the many teams working at Babcock Ranch are collectively inspired by the mission of creating great places to live that enrich the lives of those who live there. In this episode, Tom discusses how these teams are collaborating to elevate the innovation throughout new development at Babcock Ranch and how they are successfully facing the challenge of building a town for the future.
Tom has been involved at Babcock Ranch since the inception of the town planning in 2005. Since then, he has seen the plan evolve into one of the largest and most innovative communities in the world. Today, Babcock Ranch is over 18,000 acres with more than 20,000 homes. Seeing first time home buyers and families choose Babcock Ranch continues to validate the grand vision “they” had for the future back in 2005. Babcock Ranch continues to deliver an unprecedented experience to residents through solar power, fiber internet, a school system, the first autonomous shuttle service, and more.
Innovation at Babcock Ranch
In 2019, Tom went to the executive team at Kitson & Partners and proposed an event that would soon shift the attitude around innovation at Babcock Ranch. Innovation Summit, first held in 2019, was designed to bring the best and brightest in home building together to discuss new ideas for building practices, technology, and more.
A positive byproduct of the first Innovation Summit in 2019 is Innovation Way. Innovation Way is a street in Babcock Ranch dedicated to showcasing homes of the future. Forging partnerships with the largest home builders in the country enabled Babcock Ranch to expand what is feasible with the model homes, putting on display cutting edge features.
The next Innovation Summit will be held in the spring of 2023, and will be more comprehensive to include topics of home building like the last summit, and also include areas of focus on common area, infrastructure, technology, and parks and place.
Connect with Tom
Learn more about Babcock Ranch
Learn more about Kitson and Partners
Connect with Tom on LinkedIn
Ep. 5: Designing one of the fastest growing master planned communities in the country with Rick Severance
Ep. 4: Leveraging PropTech and the metaverse to enhance the home buying experience with Nicole Godfrey
In this episode, host April LaMon is joined by Nicole Godfrey, Global President at Runway.
Nicole discusses the origin story of Runway amidst the financial crisis of 2008, how Runway is leveraging the metaverse to create virtual, immersive home buying experiences and how PropTech can empower consumers when buying a home.
About Runway
Runway is an international, award-winning inventory management and sales and marketing tool partnering with leading community developers and home builders. Runway solves the most complex back office challenges faced by the industry and delivers incredible home shopper experiences that increase sales velocity and conversion rates. Runway is privately held and was established in Melbourne, Australia in 1997.
The metaverse, and the new immersive homebuying experience
In Australia, developers sell land directly to consumers, followed by builders selling home designs to those same consumers. That means there are two separate transactions, each with different contracts. In order for a builder to generate leads, they must put together detailed virtual house and land packages outlining all details and expenses. This process can be time consuming, inefficient and can often lead to mistakes.
Upon entry into the US market, Runway quickly recognized the challenges of that process and in turn, developed a series of configurable algorithms to allow builders to create thousands of these packages within minutes. Runway’s cutting-edge technology creates dollar-perfect packages that are compliant with all rules and design guidelines. Builders can generate a PDF and publish these virtual packages to websites and major portals within hours rather than weeks.
By eliminating that manual, repetitive effort, Runway has been successful in getting builders what they need faster, more efficiently and from a single source of data.
Typically, only builders and sales teams have had access to these virtual packages, however in 2018, Runway released the first version of Homebuyer, a program that enables consumers to access, build, and customize these virtual packages for their home. Through confidence in their market pricing and integrity of their data, Runway is able to empower consumers with key information and allow them to customize their home with precise detail.
Connect with Nicole
Ep. 3: Greg Wagner discusses how Moonlight Basin leverages technology to enhance membership experiences
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, host April LaMon is joined by Greg Wagner, Assistant General Manager at Moonlight Basin in Big Sky, MT.
Greg discusses how the world-class team at Moonlight Basin is using innovative technology such as the newly implemented Alosant Access Connector™ to enable residents to access amenities and spaces with the ease of their smartphones. He also shares how living in Montana keeps him inspired.
Greg moved from Santa Monica, California to Big Sky almost ten years ago to join the team at Moonlight Basin. With extensive experience as a PGA Golf Professional, Greg combines his passion for marketing and business with his competitive nature to create success throughout Moonlight Basin.
Here are some highlights from his conversation with LaMon:
How Moonlight Basin leverages innovative technology to enhance the member experience
Moonlight Basin strives to provide an authentic, hospitable experience to members, residents, and guests of the community— technology enables them to do that.
In 2020 Moonlight Basin launched its Moonlight Member App powered by the Alosant ResX™ Community Branded App Platform. The app was originally used by members to access club information, book reservations and easily locate contact information for club staff. However, last year, Moonlight Basin implemented the Employee User Role, offering all staff members access to important content such as the community’s handbook, schedules, urgent messages, community values and more. As members roam the property, staff is now better equipped to answer questions and provide direction seamlessly.Greg discusses how these little touches go a long way, and how the flexibility of the Alosant ResX™ Community Branded App Platform. allows the Moonlight Basin team to elevate the member experience.
The Newly Implemented Alosant Access Connector™ at Moonlight Basin
Moonlight Basin and Alosant partnered to redesign how members and guests access amenities and spaces throughout the community. With the technical expertise of local provider SAV Digital Environments based in Bozeman, MT, Moonlight Basin is the first community to have fully integrated access control throughout every building in the community. Members, residents, and guests can now shake their smartphone to access ski lockers, gym and pool access points and much more.
In this episode, Greg shines light on the entire process from the many benefits of discontinuing its fob access system to the tremendous cost savings the new technology has afforded the community. He explains the collaborative nature of the system and how it encourages the partnership with trusted vendors to maintain the system.
Connect with Greg
Connect with Greg on LinkedIn
Learn more about Moonlight Basin
Ep. 2: Designing amenities and lifestyle programs for the future with Monaca Onstad
The 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 community planning. Connect with Monaca Connect with Monaca on LinkedIn Visit OnPlace
Ep. 1: The future of community development with Paul Johnson
In this episode of the Alosant Innovator Series, Paul Johnson sits down with host April LaMon to discuss his notable career in community development, how residential lifestyle trends are changing in a post-COVID world, and what he sees on the horizon for the industry.
Johnson has over 25 years of experience in building, planning, and developing some of the leading master-planned communities in the country including Ladera Ranch and Rancho Mission Viejo in Southern California. From the start of his career, Johnson has always believed in the core values of having fun and building communities that are financially feasible, sustainable, and innovative.
In this episode, Johnson speaks to the power of those around you. He accredits the innovation at Ladera Ranch and Rancho Mission Viejo to the legacy of the ownership and the teams that challenge themselves to innovate and enhance the resident experience in unprecedented ways.
Connect with Paul and Rancho Mission Viejo
Ep. 0: About Our Host
Thanks for listening to the Alosant Innovator Series. In this episode we learn more about the host of the Alosant Innovator Series, April LaMon
April is the CEO and Co-Founder of Alosant, and is an experienced entrepreneur and real estate technology expert with an innate curiosity for consumer behavior. Together with Co-Founder Michael Swanson, the duo has pioneered the creation of purpose-built software that connects real estate developers and their communities with residents, prospective home buyers and local businesses. Alosant-powered apps allow users to seamlessly engage with their community by providing a solution that helps them stay informed while receiving relevant content.
Prior to launching Alosant, LaMon served as a marketing executive for global companies – such as PepsiCo., Kraft Foods Group and Armstrong World Industries. In 2012, she co-founded Lead InSite, a provider of active adult/senior living industry online research behavior, with Swanson. The company’s expertise in data analytics and predictive personalization led to an opportunity to develop a fully functional mobile app to meet the needs of Rancho Mission Viejo, a lifestyle-rich master-planned community in Southern California. Alosant, the residential experience platform, was officially launched in 2017.
Listen to the full episode to learn more about April. Learn more about the Alosant Innovator Series by searching Alosant.com/innovatorseries