153: Designing Connection: Brad Holley on Creativity, Community, and the Power of Outdoor Space

Join Dr. Shine on What's Your Shine? The Happy Podcast for a captivating conversation with Brad Holley—visionary outdoor designer, creative mind behind Undesign, and winner of the prestigious Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge. In this episode, Brad shares the heart behind his award-winning outdoor environments, which are far more than luxury backyards—they're places where people gather, celebrate, and grow. He also opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, learning the power of mentorship, and how design can shape behavior and build community. But that's not all—Brad dives into one of the most joyful, imaginative projects we've ever featured on the podcast: a community-wide treasure hunt he created during the pandemic that brought neighbors together through surprise, creativity, and kindness. This episode is a masterclass in self-awareness, vision, and the power of creating spaces—both physical and emotional—where people can truly connect.   Key Topics: Brad's journey from commercial construction to award-winning outdoor design How design can transform behavior and foster human connection The magic of mentorship and learning through apprenticeship Behind the scenes of the Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge The story of Dallas Side Quest: a pandemic-era community treasure hunt that sparked joy and connection