Newly Released Episode

  Monica Hollins and Lauren Brown kick off 2026 by recapping key takeaways from their two-part conversation with architect and author Kevin Ervin Kelley. They explore how lifestyle and resident experience professionals can design events like a movie—creating intentional “scenes” from the first impression to the closing moment—so residents feel welcomed, connected, and clear on purpose. They share practical ideas to build “social proof” and belonging, including using real resident photos from past events, Polaroid memory walls, personalized outreach to new residents, and on-site touches that spark conversation (wristbands by neighborhood, name tags, simple swag). They emphasize planning for the full experience: parking and arrival flow, volunteers to prevent an “empty room” feeling, sensory details (cleanliness, visuals, smells, staging), and creating safe spaces where people naturally connect. The episode also dives into Kevin’s concepts like “magic moments” (the instant you see real connection happening), the “bonfire effect” (designing spaces that help people gather naturally), and the value of observing how residents use spaces to refine what works. Monica and Lauren close with a challenge for lifestyle directors to share their own “magic moments,” reminding listeners that resident experience work creates lasting memories—and meaningful ripple effects across communities. 

 Part 2 of our three-part series with author and architect Kevin Ervin Kelley moves from philosophy into practical insight, focusing on how meaning, storytelling, and experience shape truly successful communities and brands.  In this episode, Kevin joins Monica Hollins and Lauren Brown to explore why storytelling matters and how understanding what your community genuinely cares about should guide every decision. We discuss the idea of putting the world back in balance, what great brands consistently deliver through solutions, meaning, and experience, and how to evaluate the relationship between work and payoff.  The conversation also dives into the importance of traditions and rituals, creating your own race rather than competing with others, and designing opportunities where residents and customers feel like they are winning. Kevin shares perspectives on the return on investment of experience, how to recognize when the magic moment happens, and why real change begins when you get out and do something.  This episode challenges leaders, developers, and community builders to think differently about value, impact, and the role experience plays in shaping lasting connections. 

Part 1 of our three-part series with author and architect Kevin Ervin Kelley takes listeners deep into the heart of what makes places truly meaningful.  In the first 45 minutes of our conversation, Kevin joins Monica Hollins and Lauren Brown to explore the philosophy behind Irreplaceable and the art of designing spaces that bring people together. We discuss why storytelling belongs in architecture, how shared experiences influence human connection, and why intentionally designed community spaces matter more than ever.  Kevin also shares personal memories, including cherished movie nights with his daughter, to show how thoughtful design can elevate everyday moments into extraordinary experiences.  This episode lays the foundation for understanding that community experience is no longer optional in modern developments. It is essential. It also prepares listeners for Parts 2 and 3, where we continue the conversation and later explore how Lifestyle Directors and community leaders can apply these ideas to create environments where people feel seen, welcomed, and inspired to participate. 

In this conversation, Monica and Lauren discuss the joys and challenges of the holiday season, particularly focusing on Thanksgiving. They share personal experiences, tips for creating magical moments for families, and the importance of community connections. The conversation also touches on the stress of traveling during the holidays, engaging activities for residents, and fun games to enhance the Thanksgiving experience. They emphasize the significance of togetherness and support during this time, offering creative ideas for holiday events and activities. 

 Monica Hollins and Lauren Brown kick off 2026 by recapping key takeaways from their two-part conversation with architect and author Kevin Ervin Kelley. They explore how lifestyle and resident experience professionals can design events like a movie—creating intentional “scenes” from the first impression to the closing moment—so residents feel welcomed, connected, and clear on purpose. They share practical ideas to build “social proof” and belonging, including using real resident photos from past events, Polaroid memory walls, personalized outreach to new residents, and on-site touches that spark conversation (wristbands by neighborhood, name tags, simple swag). They emphasize planning for the full experience: parking and arrival flow, volunteers to prevent an “empty room” feeling, sensory details (cleanliness, visuals, smells, staging), and creating safe spaces where people naturally connect. The episode also dives into Kevin’s concepts like “magic moments” (the instant you see real connection happening), the “bonfire effect” (designing spaces that help people gather naturally), and the value of observing how residents use spaces to refine what works. Monica and Lauren close with a challenge for lifestyle directors to share their own “magic moments,” reminding listeners that resident experience work creates lasting memories—and meaningful ripple effects across communities. 

In this conversation, Monica Hollins and Lauren Brown discuss the importance of understanding market demand and the role developers play in managing these expectations. They emphasize the need for a clear vision of community offerings that align with realistic goals. 

 No one plans for disaster—but every great leader plans for the unexpected. Monica and Lauren break down practical steps for developing crisis management plans, training volunteers, and maintaining open lines of communication. From safety education to transparency under pressure, this episode is a must-listen for anyone managing people, programs, or communities. 

Join Monica and Lauren as they discuss food, beverage, and community with Brooke Cagan, CWEP, Events and Activities Director at Heritage Bay Golf and Country Club.

Join Monica and Lauren as they catch up, discuss volunteers, past guests, mental health, and more.

Join Lauren and Monica as they sit down with Bill Overton, PCAM — veteran community manager, industry leader, and contributing author to CAI’s Managing Mental Health. In one of the most personal conversations yet, Bill opens up about his own mental health journey, sharing honest reflections on resilience, burnout, and the importance of normalizing wellness in leadership. Together, they explore what it means to lead with empathy and create healthier, more sustainable workplaces across the community management industry.

Beyond the Event: Building Clubs That Connect explores how clubs become the heartbeat of thriving communities. Join us as we sit down with Lifestyle Directors Bethany Nelson and Jennifer Flores, to uncover strategies, success stories, and creative approaches to building clubs that foster connection, purpose, and lasting engagement beyond one-time events.