Episode #10
The People, Places, and Purpose of Central Florida’s Pulte Communities
In this episode, Monaca and Callie welcome Blake Lapinsky and Matt True, the dynamic duo behind PulteGroup’s explosive growth in Central Florida, for an energizing conversation about the evolution of homebuilding, community, and what it takes to deliver real meaning and connection in today’s neighborhoods. With a combined 32 years at Pulte, Blake Lapinsky and Matt True share their stories of breaking into the industry - from pulling permits in Polk County to leading the region’s largest flagship communities. They give a transparent look inside Pulte’s “secret sauce,” from culture and mentorship to the radical way their team activates amenities around real people - not checklists. Dive deep into standout new masterplans like Grow, a 2,000-home agrihood centered on a working farm and stately preserved oaks, and Everbee, with its lively “party pickleball pavilion,” barefoot bars, and walkable event lawns. Learn how intentional design, listening to buyers, and creative collaboration lead to communities where people truly want to gather, stay, and belong. From hilarious personal stories (Halloween hay rides and wiffle ball fields included!) to practical developer tips on wellness, affordability, and generational housing, this episode spotlights how placemaking, not just house selling, shapes lives - and how every street can hold a bit of “Smith Lane” magic.
