This compilation highlights four 2025 perspectives on what makes places feel worth returning to, from emotional resonance to everyday livability. Kevin Kelley, Principal and Co-Founder of Shook Kelley, shares how placemaking can reduce friction and build belonging. Monaca Onstad, Founder and CEO of OnPlace Collective, focuses on designing experiences that reflect local culture. John Darby, CEO and Chairman of the Board of The Beach Company, discusses shaping identity through land and lifestyle. Sarah Phelps, Managing Director, Astronaut Sales, Commercial Partnerships, and Customer Experience and Hospitality of Blue Origin, brings lessons on hospitality and awe-driven community experience.
Key Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction.
01:21 Thoughtful placemaking starts with how a place makes people feel.
03:19 Language and labels in community spaces can reduce anxiety or increase it.
04:46 Social proof and visible connection help visitors imagine themselves belonging.
05:26 Lifestyle programming thrives when it builds on the natural character of the land.
07:39 Early relationship building with local partners supports long-term community energy.
10:42 Successful communities differentiate by honoring local history and setting a clear identity.
12:24 Intentional choices in amenities and scale shape a more casual, human experience.
16:08 Authentic experiences come from aligning design with the culture and roots of a place.
Resources Mentioned:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinervinkelley/
Shook Kelley | LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/shook-kelley-inc-/
Shook Kelley | Website
http://www.shookkelley.com/
“Irreplaceable” by Kevin Ervin Kelley
https://www.amazon.com/Irreplaceable-Create-Extraordinary-Places-Together/dp/1637744749
https://www.linkedin.com/in/monacaonstad/
OnPlace Collective | LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/onplacecollective/
OnPlace Collective | Website
http://www.onplace.life/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-darby-5b4819118/
The Beach Company | LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-beach-company/
The Beach Company | Website
http://www.thebeachcompany.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahphelps99/
Blue Origin | LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-origin/
Blue Origin | Website
https://www.blueorigin.com/
Thank you for listening to “Communities Connected: A Land and Lifestyle Podcast by Alosant.” If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a 5-star review and subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss any future episodes.
You can find more about Alosant on our LinkedIn page and alosant.com
About the Host
April is the CEO and Co-Founder of Alosant. She is an experienced entrepreneur and real estate technology expert with an innate curiosity for consumer behavior. Alosant-powered apps make it easy for users to stay informed and engaged, offering solutions to connect with everything their community has to offer.
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