Smith Lane Podcast

OnPlace Collective

Presented by OnPlace, Smith Lane Podcast is all about community building and placemaking. In each episode, your hosts Monaca Smith Onstad and Callie Friedman, will take you behind the scenes with industry experts and will dive deep into what’s shaped their community, or, their own personal Smith Lane. We’ll hear success stories, have discussions around emerging trends, and hear valuable insights from developers, architects, engineers, tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and more placemakers.

  1. 29 APR

    Redefining Land Development: Innovative Tools, Authenticity, and Building Trust with Ryan Glick | Season 3, Episode 6

    Monaca and Callie welcome Ryan Glick - co-founder & CEO of Groov and host of The Land Development Podcast. Ryan shares his journey from a tech-focused upbringing in Iowa to building a software company modernizing the land development industry. What started as a simple effort to solve a builder’s problem - accessing lot inventory - evolved into a platform that streamlines both lot management and land acquisition for developers. The conversation dives into the real challenges of bringing innovation to a traditionally analog industry, the role of AI (and where it shouldn’t be used), and why relationships and authenticity still matter more than automation. Ryan also shares how his podcast unexpectedly became a powerful industry platform, proving that storytelling and community can drive just as much impact as technology.

    33 min

  2. 1 APR

    Social Architecture: Why the Feeling is the Feature with Monaca Onstad & Callie Friedman | Season 3, Episode 5

    Monaca and Callie explore the concept of social architecture, the intentional design of systems, interactions, and environments that foster meaningful human connection. Moving beyond traditional “lifestyle” programming, they break down how thoughtful planning from amenities to programming and what creates vibrant, connected communities. Through real-world examples (from retail fitting rooms to fitness centers and farmers markets), the conversation highlights how developers can design not just physical spaces, but the experiences and relationships that make communities thrive. They also dive into why social architecture is no longer optional, how it impacts sales and resident satisfaction, and what questions developers should be asking from the earliest stages of a project.

    16 min
  3. Designing From the Inside Out: Elevating Amenities & Community Experience with Paige Byrd | Season 3, Episode 4

    18 MAR

    Designing From the Inside Out: Elevating Amenities & Community Experience with Paige Byrd | Season 3, Episode 4

    Monaca and Callie sit down with Paige Byrd, Owner and Co-President of Thiel & Team, an award-winning architectural, interior design, and procurement firm specializing in hospitality and multifamily amenities. The conversation explores why interior design should be prioritized earlier in the development process, how thoughtful amenity design shapes community experience, and what it means to design “from the inside out.” Paige shares insights from nearly two decades in the industry, including lessons from large-scale historic renovations, brand-driven environments, and the growing importance of wellness-focused amenities. They also dive into team culture, budgeting strategy, and the evolving expectations of modern residents, ultimately highlighting how intentional design and strong collaboration lead to better communities.

    34 min

  4. 4 MAR

    Ladies in Land: Building the Future of Development with Erica Sinner | Season 3, Episode 3

    Episode Description Monaca and Callie sit down with the Ladies in Land founder, Erica Sinner, to discuss how she found her way into land development, why confidence is the single biggest career differentiator for women in the industry, and how a simple idea - putting women in a room together to learn - has grown into a multi-city national movement. The conversation covers her early career path from marketing and sales into land acquisition, the moment she realized women needed more than networking- they needed education - and how Ladies in Land evolved from informal meetups into structured chapters offering certifications, professional credits, executive coaching, and university outreach. They also explore expansion into nearly 21 cities (with a goal of 35+), the upcoming conference, a new engineering credit initiative, national partnerships, and the launch of a parallel initiative for men called Dudes in Development. The episode ultimately centers on confidence, mentorship, and building better communities through better-trained professionals.

    46 min

  5. 18 FEB

    Don’t Bet Against Houston: Building The Grand Prairie with EMBER | Season 3, Episode 2

    Episode Description Monaca and Callie sit down with Harry Masterson of EMBER to explore what makes master-planned communities truly work. From how Harry unexpectedly found his way into land development to why Houston remains one of the most resilient growth markets in the U.S., the conversation centers on EMBER’s signature West Houston project, The Grand Prairie, and its prairie-first identity. They unpack how EMBER builds both internal culture and external brand with intention, how “decompression” becomes part of the arrival experience, and how thoughtful design choices—sunsets, overlooks, and authentic landscape storytelling—can turn a perceived challenge (not being right off the freeway) into a defining advantage. The episode closes with Harry’s personal “Smith Lane,” a childhood coastal community on Galveston Bay, and how that sense of freedom shapes his vision for The Grand Prairie.

    37 min
  6. Welcome to Season Three! | Smith Lane Podcast

    4 FEB

    Welcome to Season Three! | Smith Lane Podcast

    Monaca and Callie kick off Season Three of Smith Lane with some major updates: a brand-new set, a growing team, and a bold evolution of the company behind the podcast, OnPlace Collective. Monaca and Callie reflect on how Smith Lane began, why placemaking and community remain at the heart of everything they do, and how growth has shaped both their business and their mission. This episode sets the stage for what’s ahead in Season Three: deeper conversations, more visibility through video, and continued storytelling around building meaningful, connected communities. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Welcome to Season Three A new professional set, upgraded production, and the excitement (and nerves) that come with leveling up. What Is Smith Lane? The origins of the podcast and why it was created alongside a fast-growing company. The personal meaning behind the name “Smith Lane” and its roots in community. The Evolution of the Company Transition from OnPlace to OnPlace Collective Why this wasn’t a rebrand, but a true evolution. How client needs shaped the expansion of services over time. Breaking Down the Collective OnMenity: Amenity and lifestyle planning at the raw land stage OnSpire: Welcome centers, social media, and fractional marketing services OnVie: Lifestyle management, programming that drives sales performance Why Early Planning Matters The value of integrating amenities and lifestyle strategies early in development. How thoughtful placemaking leads to better outcomes for residents and developers. Big Milestones Launching video podcasts and expanding onto YouTube Opening the first satellite office in Houston Hiring a Texas division leader Celebrating the company’s 100th employee Growing with Intention Building internal systems like HR, learning & development, and performance tracking Remaining a bootstrapped company focused on sustainable, client-driven growth Investing in people, training, and long-term culture What’s Ahead for Season Three Continued conversations about placemaking, lifestyle, and community Sharing lessons learned from growth, execution, and innovation Bringing listeners deeper into the story behind the work YouTube Chapter Markers 00:00:00 Welcome to Season Three 00:00:25 A New Set, New Energy, and Gratitude for the Team 00:00:55 What Is Smith Lane? 00:01:12 The Origin of Smith Lane and Its Meaning 00:01:31 Why Placemaking and Community Matter 00:01:50 Introducing the Company Evolution 00:01:54 From OnPlace to OnPlace Collective 00:02:21 How Client Needs Drove Growth 00:02:38 The Shift from Planning to Execution 00:03:26 The Birth of Lifestyle Management (OnVie) 00:03:42 Expanding Services and Welcome Centers 00:04:05 Why the Old Brand Became Confusing 00:04:46 Breaking Down the Collective Divisions 00:05:09 Introducing OnSpire 00:05:28 Creating a Clear Client Journey 00:05:40 The Evolution of the Smith Lane Brand 00:05:57 New Logo Inspiration and Design Story 00:06:27 Supporting Connection Through Integrated Services 00:06:56 Why Early Planning Creates Better Communities 00:07:24 Smith Lane Goes Video (YouTube Launch) 00:07:44 Opening the Houston Office 00:08:02 Building the Texas Team 00:08:10 Celebrating 100 Employees 00:08:31 Lessons Learned from Rapid Growth 00:08:55 Investing in HR and Learning & Development 00:09:09 Scaling Systems and Tracking Impact 00:09:33 Growing as a Bootstrapped Company 00:10:08 Investing Back into Culture and Community 00:10:36 What to Expect in Season Three 00:10:50 Closing Thoughts and What’s Next

    11 min
  7. More Than a Gym: How Fitness Fosters Community

    05/11/2025

    More Than a Gym: How Fitness Fosters Community

    On this episode of Smith Lane, hosts Monaca and Callie sit down with Graham Anderson, Co-Owner of Anchor Fitness and Performance, for a conversation about how fitness can serve as a cornerstone for community connection. Graham explains how fitness offerings can go far beyond workouts, becoming a catalyst for stronger communities. He shares how his team listens closely to resident feedback, invests in knowledgeable instructors who genuinely care about their members, and thoughtfully selects equipment and programs that meet the unique needs of each community. The result is welcoming spaces where residents feel confident and engaged. Whether you’re passionate about growing community through fitness or curious about the inner workings of fitness centers in master-planned communities, this episode offers valuable insight from a leader who believes fitness is about much more than physical strength. About Graham Graham Anderson brings over 25 years of experience in the fitness and performance industry, including 15 years working at the highest levels of collegiate and professional sports. His extensive background in athletic performance, injury prevention, and strength and conditioning has shaped a career dedicated to helping individuals reach their physical potential—regardless of age, experience, or starting point. In 2018, Graham co-founded Anchor Fitness & Performance, a fitness solutions company based in Southwest Florida. Anchor Fitness was built on the principle of accessibility—bringing expert-level fitness professionals directly to clients in a variety of settings, whether at home, at work, or online. The mission is simple: to close the "excuse gap" and empower people to make fitness a sustainable part of their lifestyle. Under Graham’s leadership, Anchor Fitness has become a trusted resource for personal training, corporate wellness, and performance-based programs tailored to individual needs. Whether training elite athletes or busy professionals, Graham's philosophy remains consistent—meet people where they are, and give them the tools, support, and motivation to go further.   Connect with Graham LinkedIn

    31 min
  8. Behind the Build: Boutique Construction & Innovative Amenities with Homes by Towne

    22/10/2025

    Behind the Build: Boutique Construction & Innovative Amenities with Homes by Towne

    On this episode of Smith Lane, hosts Monaca and Callie sit down with John Woodman, Division Manager at Homes by Towne, to uncover what it takes to craft homes within some of Florida’s most celebrated master-planned communities. With more than 25 years of experience across Florida, Arizona, California, and Hawaii, John brings a deep understanding of design, craftsmanship, and community building. John shares the story behind Homes by Towne, a privately held company known for its commitment to customer experience and meaningful community investment. He highlights standout projects like Shellstone and Lakehouse Cove at Waterside, as well as Midway Park, an innovative shared amenity designed to bring residents together and reimagine how neighborhoods connect. Listeners will also hear John’s reflections on the “three E’s of construction,” and how his upbringing on a dirt road in Michigan, John’s personal “Smith Lane”, continues to influence his approach to creating spaces where people can truly thrive. Whether you’re passionate about thoughtful community design, curious about the future of homebuilding, or simply enjoy stories of craftsmanship and care, this conversation offers lessons from a builder who values people just as much as the homes he creates. About John John Woodman serves as the Division Manager for Homes by Towne’s West Florida Division, bringing more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry. A graduate of Michigan State University’s Construction Management program, John moved to Florida over two decades ago, drawn by family and the opportunity to build homes in the sunshine state. With a belief that homebuilding is as much about people and customer service as it is about process and blueprints, John emphasizes strong work ethic, lasting relationships with trade partners, and a commitment to quality. His team’s philosophy — “the three E’s: every room, every house, every day” — has become a recipe for delivering well-crafted homes and exceptional customer experiences. Over the course of his career, John has spent more than 10 years in homebuilding and another decade in land development, where he developed a passion for creating communities and lifestyles that extend well beyond the walls of a home. For him, community begins the moment someone drives into a neighborhood and feels that sense of arrival.   Connect with John LinkedIn Gregory FCA

    31 min
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About

Presented by OnPlace, Smith Lane Podcast is all about community building and placemaking. In each episode, your hosts Monaca Smith Onstad and Callie Friedman, will take you behind the scenes with industry experts and will dive deep into what’s shaped their community, or, their own personal Smith Lane. We’ll hear success stories, have discussions around emerging trends, and hear valuable insights from developers, architects, engineers, tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and more placemakers.

Information

  • Creator
    OnPlace Collective
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © OnPlace Collective
  • Show Website
    Smith Lane Podcast

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