Thea's Neighborhood Magic

On this episode of Thea’s Neighborhood Magic, Thea sits down with Avra Jain, co-founder of The Vagabond Group—known for turning forgotten Miami landmarks into vibrant destinations. From reviving the iconic Vagabond Motel on Biscayne Boulevard to transforming a six-acre mattress factory in Hialeah into Factory Town, Avra’s projects define Miami’s new wave of adaptive re-use and historic preservation. Avra shares her philosophy that “space matters” and that she only develops places with stories to tell. “Do I find space, or does space find me?” she asks. Together, Thea and Avra unpack the “Vagabond Effect”—how thoughtful, risk-taking development can catalyze neighborhood revival, raise tax bases, and create places people love.They dig into the delicate balance between preserving history and building affordable housing, a challenge Avra says is “too expensive not to solve.” A former Wall Street trader, she approaches risk differently, blending business insight with a sense of social responsibility.The conversation ranges from the rebirth of the Miami River Inn to projects in Overtown and Little Haiti, exploring how development done right connects communities and honors their past. “In the end,” Avra says, “it’s not just vision—it’s courage.”Thea and Avra close by reflecting on what sparks true “neighborhood magic:” collaboration, creative risk, and a shared commitment to building not just what’s profitable—but what’s meaningful.

On this episode of Thea’s Neighborhood Magic, Thea hosts a conversation between two visionary city leaders: Alejandro Eder, the dynamic mayor of Cali, Colombia, and Manny Diaz, the transformative former mayor of Miami.They dive into what it takes to lead a city through reinvention—from revitalizing neglected urban cores to cultivating trust between local government and private enterprise. Mayor Eder shares how Cali, long associated with Colombia’s troubled past, is rewriting its story as Colombia’s economic engine—driven by innovation, infrastructure renewal, and its electrifying cultural identity as the world capital of salsa.Manny Diaz reflects on Miami’s early-2000s transformation and draws striking parallels with Cali’s present moment, emphasizing how both cities tapped into their creative energy and entrepreneurial spirit to shape bold new futures.Together, they explore how mayors can champion entrepreneurs, protect the environment, and celebrate the soul of their cities. Mayor Eder envisions Cali as a global model for sustainable growth—a biodiversity capital and cultural powerhouse where business, ecology, and rhythm coexist in harmony.It’s a conversation about leadership, legacy, and the magic that happens when cities dance to their own beat.

In this episode of Thea’s Neighborhood Magic, Thea sits down with Jared Robins, founder and principal of In House Commercial, a full-service commercial real estate company based in Miami Beach.Thea and Jared recall Collins Avenue, a once-thriving shopping district in Miami Beach that has struggled in recent years—as tenants have moved to other neighborhoods or shifted to online sales. Stretching from Fifth to Thirteenth Streets, Collins Avenue was the heart of retail in Miami Beach during the mid-2000s. Today, its iconic art deco storefronts are largely empty, and “totally forgotten about,” according to Jared. Jared, a Miami Beach native from a multi-generational family of real estate developers, shares his emotional connection to the neighborhood and his determination to restore its vibrancy.Determined to revitalize the area, Jared and his team have rallied the majority of stakeholders in the Collins Avenue Fashion District to embrace change. They’ve listed multiple parcels for sale or lease, creating a powerful opportunity to transform the neighborhood. Whether a single entity curates the district or multiple players step in to build a new revitalized tenant base, Collins Avenue now stands at a pivotal crossroads.Thea shares some of the challenges she faced during the revitalization of Wynwood and Allapattah, and explains how, compared to these areas, Miami Beach is a walk in the park—a very beautiful park.This episode also touches on the fragility of neighborhoods. As Thea puts it: “The ecosystem needs to be cared for constantly, because in our lifetime we’ve seen a neighborhood on the uptick, hit a high note and then this sharp decline and this conversation we are having here heralds the new day in the neighborhood.”And together, Thea and Jared explore what makes a neighborhood stick, and how to build a welcoming community hub.Jared asks Thea about the challenges she encountered in the early days of Wynwood and Allapattah. Miami Beach is a walk in the park - a very beautiful park.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to leave a like and subscribe to my channel!

In this episode of Thea's Neighborhood Magic, Thea talks with Charles Foschini, Senior Managing Director at Berkadia, America’s largest privately held real estate investment bank. Charles has placed twenty-five billion dollars in capital placement across 27 states. Charles shares his perspective from the financing side of neighborhood ignition. Thea and Charles discuss his significant experience providing the backbone to bold, pioneering projects, while facilitating opportunity and access to under-served neighborhoods. This episode speaks directly to all the pioneer entrepreneurs who would like insight on financing from a highly respected expert in the field. Be sure to tune in next week, where Thea will continue to examine neighborhood magic through the prism of everyone involved.

Thea visits the unstoppable force that is Bernice Steinbaum in her spectacular home gallery in Coconut Grove.  Bernice is a legendary art dealer who moved her eponymous gallery The Bernice Steinbaum Gallery from New York City to the gateway of Wynwood in the year 2000.  Bernice brought prestige and importance to the fledgling art district.  Building a two-story art gallery in what was then an overlooked part of Miami was no easy task. But as Bernice explains, as a native New Yorker, she was never phased. “If you build it, they'll come,” she told us. Bernice shares her personal story with Thea, how her father died when she was six and her mother raised five children alone. Bernice discusses her triumphs, her dedication to her artists, and her will to succeed for her family.   Watch the full interview to hear Bernice’s compelling story, hear how she added her magic to Wynwood and hear an intimate conversation with a trailblazer. 

In this all-new episode of Thea's Neighborhood Magic, Thea talks with Sebastien Scemla of Omega Real Estate, developers of The Gardens Residences, a beautiful 358 unit rental building in North Miami. Sebastien shares his approach to being a conscientious developer, building community and creating a special living environment offered at an affordable price point. Thea and Sebastien discuss the nine year development process from inception to completion. Sebastien shares how he handled the complexities involved and the obstacles which included two fires and a hurricane. They discuss the endurance required for projects of this kind. A former fashion designer, Sebastien’s good taste and sophisticated style and attention to detail make this development special. Units have high ceilings, elegant touches, blinds, high-end sound proofing and balconies that look out over the tree canopy. Special rates are extended to teachers, fire-fighters, nurses and police. Thea and Sebastien talk about the importance of contributing to a community and working closely with neighbors and the local municipalities. Collaboration has been integral to the project’s success, Sebastien worked with North Miami City officials to create a development everyone could be proud of. Be sure to join us next week, as we explore the stories of risk-takers and pioneers who create neighborhood magic.

Join Thea for another episode of Thea’s Neighborhood Magic, a behind the scenes look at what really goes into igniting a neighborhood. Thea is joined by Glendina Roseborough. Fifteen years ago, Glendina interviewed with Thea for a job to be Wynwood’s neighborhood ambassador cleaning the streets and welcoming visitors. Thea headed up the newly formed clean streets-job creation program created by the women business owners in Wynwood, a group known as The Women of Wynwood. Now fifteen years later, Thea and Glendina share the memory of their first meeting. “We were lucky we found you,” Thea told her. “When I think about Wynwood, you're really the magic for me.” The job enabled Glendina to leave the women’s shelter she had been living in and move into stable housing. Glendina’s dedication, hard work and enthusiasm made the brand new Wynwood clean streets program a huge success. Glendina has been a consistent presence in Wynwood, through all kinds of challenging conditions. She is a highly valued member of the community, lovingly known as ‘Mom’. Glendina is a inspiring example of commitment, perseverance and positivity and represents the best of what a community can be when it works together. Glendina tells Thea personal, first-hand stories from her years in the neighborhood and shares a unique perspective that you won’t want to miss.

This episode is a tribute to Adrian Olivares, who played a pivotal role in producing the first five episodes of Thea's Neighborhood Magic before his untimely passing in July of this year. Adrian was more than a producer; he was a beloved son, a devoted father, and a cherished friend. In this special episode, Thea is joined by Alexis Grullon, Adrian's friend and fellow bandmate from their days in the renowned Latin group, Menudo. Alexis, a Dominican American singer and songwriter, was a member of the last generation of Menudo, and is a founding member of the band MDO. Alexis shares loving memories of Adrian, recounting how his energy and passion for music were truly captivating. As a young rock star, Grullon explained, Adrian was admirable not only for his musical talent, but for his ability to make those around him better. As Thea and Alexis fondly remember, Adrian's love for music was infectious. He wasn't just a passive listener, but a true enthusiast who dissected albums in order to understand their true essence. His appreciation transcended genres, helping to broaden the musical horizons of all those around him, including Alexis. Despite all of the fame, Alexis explains, Adrian remained humble, always prioritizing the band over his individual success. For Alexis, Adrian was not just a bandmate, but a brother who's friendship left an indelible mark and shaped his path in both music and life. Alexis also highlights Adrian's unwavering devotion to his family, and shares how every message Adrian sent was filled with glowing, loving mentions of his daughters. Alexis didn't get a formal farewell with Adrian, but the gratitude, lessons, and appreciation will remain strong in his heart forever. Thea also shares her own experiences with Adrian, remembering his warmth, charisma, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. Adrian's laughter is a cherished memory for Thea, an everlasting testament to the bond they shared. His encouragement was instrumental in bringing Thea's podcast to life, and his spirit continues to inspire her to this day. Adrian Olivares leaves behind a legacy of music, love, and laughter. And he will be greatly missed. Through the stories and memories shared in this episode, we celebrate a life well-lived and the profound impact he had on those fortunate enough to know him.

In this episode, Thea talks with developers Marcus Jones and Akunna Olumba of the Legacy City Group about their transformative work in the Live Six neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan. Akunna is an attorney and professor, Marcus is an expert in construction and sustainable building practices. Marcus and Akunna are developing a block on the main thoroughfare. As Thea says “The engine of Neighborhood Magic often starts with a new restaurant that generates interest in an area, it’s how people experience a new neighborhood” which is why she is especially excited to hear about their Detroit Pizza Bar. This is the first sit-down restaurant in Live Six in over forty years. The Detroit Pizza Bar serves many functions. It’s a modern, two hundred seat restaurant with a roof top patio and wood fired pizza ovens. It’s also a place the community can learn new skills. Marcus explains how they arrived at their business model “We studied how to rebuild in a way to support the neighborhood, but also in a way that was sustainable." "We have a two-phase approach,” Akunna explains. “First, we invest in human capital with a nationally recognized apprenticeship program. We hire, train, and up-skill individuals from the neighborhood. Second, we have a profit-sharing model. For those who've been with us for a year, we take 20 percent of the profits and divide them among these individuals." Marcus and Akunna are doing whatever it takes - “Like most entrepreneurs, like most people in business you do what’s required to make the business operate which means sometimes you’re the pizza maker sometimes you’re the dishwasher, sometimes you’re the person who mops” says Akunna. Thea knows this all too well. Like Akunna, Thea stepped into the role of pizza maker in her own restaurant Thea’s when the pizza guy stopped showing up. Find out how these determined and thoughtful developers have engaged with the community to build a social hub. Marcus -“I really try to engage the community. I talk to people and I look around and say ‘where can I make an impact so that I can propel and allow these talented people that live in the neighborhood and give them a platform showcase their work.” Join Thea in celebrating unsung heroes who are reshaping America one neighborhood at a time, and stay tuned for more stories from visionary pioneers that are redefining the urban landscape.

In this episode, Thea talks with Ivette Naranjo, the dynamic entrepreneur who opened Cafeina, the first bar in Wynwood. Thea and Ivette look back on the early days as the first operators in Wynwood, Thea opened the first restaurant in 2008 and Ivette opened the first bar in 2009. They recall the quiet and desolation, “it was like operating on the moon.” In 2002, Ivette bought a warehouse for her flooring company in Miami’s barren warehouse district. Her company, which she had formed at sixteen years old, sold flooring to schools, airports and other industrial buildings. Faced with the looming financial crisis of 2008, Ivette made a quick decision to buy one of the newly available liquor licenses designated for the re-zoned district. Ivette had no experience running or working in a bar. Confident in her own abilities to figure it out, she set about repurposing part of the warehouse and her parking lot into a garden, lounge, bar and art gallery. Cafeina, Wynwood’s first bar, opened in 2009. It has recently reopened with a new name- Selvatico. Naranjo reflects on the work that went into converting a warehouse into a lounge, and how, undaunted, she jumped every hurdle in her way. Ivette reflects on the demands of running Cafeina at night and her flooring business during the day. Listen in to an intimate conversation between two pioneering entrepreneurs, the engines behind the first hospitality operations in Wynwood.

Thea is joined by "Miami’s best Mayor," Manny Diaz, who served as Mayor of Miami from 2001-2009. When Diaz took office, Miami was the poorest large city in America. It had a reputation as a drug capital with a corrupt police department, police shootings and riots. In this fascinating episode, Manny shares his personal perspective from his time in office. Thea and Manny discuss the growth of Miami during its most transformative moment, a moment Thea refers to as "The Manny Diaz Moment." Together, they look back at this period in Miami’s history, discussing the important relationship between government and the city’s entrepreneurs. Manny tells us exactly what it means to be a leader, building trust, and rallying others around his big vision for Miami - which included uplifting all citizens. Thea tells Manny that the ignition of Wynwood was directly connected to his hiring of John Timony as Chief of Police. Chief Timoney and the Miami Police Department made Thea feel sufficiently secure, supported, and confident enough to operate Wynwood’s first restaurant in the dark, desolate warehouse district. This igniting business paved the way for the thriving entertainment district that exists today. Thea and Manny reflect on the growth of Miami and the large-scale projects that were initiated during his time in office: Midtown, opera house, symphony hall, Miami Port Tunnel, Museum Park, Miami World Center, One Miami River Art Walk, and many more. Listen in for fascinating insight from a mayor who transformed the city and set Miami in motion to become the major player on the world’s stage that it is today. Manny Diaz initiated innovative programs in the areas of education, infrastructure, investment, affordable housing, law enforcement , poverty, homelessness, urban design, sustainability and arts and culture. In 2008, Manny Diaz was chosen to lead the United States Conference of Mayors as its president. Diaz has received numerous awards and recognitions for his work and leadership including America’s Best Leaders by US NEWs and World Report and the Center of Public Leadership at the Kennedy School of Government. He serves as a Resident Fellow at Harvard’s Institute of Politics and is the author of Miami Transformed: Rebuilding America One Neighborhood, One City at a Time. As Thea puts it, “anybody who thinks they understand Miami, really doesn't until they read this book.”

Ever wonder how a place goes from not to hot? Join Thea for a behind-the-scenes look at what really goes into igniting a neighborhood. Thea knows - she's done it. She opened the first groundbreaking restaurants in Wynwood and Allapattah, founded and co-chaired the Wynwood Arts District Association, and generated powerful attention for overlooked parts of Miami. In this premier episode of the brand new hit show, Thea's Neighborhood Magic, Thea talks about the magic of neighborhood creation with David Lombardi, a pioneering developer of Wynwood and Thea’s closest collaborator in Wynwood. David and Thea are close friends from the early days when Thea opened the first igniting restaurant in Wynwood. Thea’s groundbreaking restaurant was the magic oasis, setting the tone and standard for the whole neighborhood. David tells Thea, “You created a bar by which everything else in the neighborhood should follow.” David and Thea talk about the excitement of the first restaurant. Described by David as "the de facto chamber of commerce," where the burgeoning neighborhood and its stakeholders could meet, mingle, and eat for the very first time. "None of us in the neighborhood interacted until you opened Joey’s," David says. "Once Joey’s opened we started feeling like, hey, we are part of something, there’s a community here." David shares why he went 'all in' on Wynwood and tells Thea how he was able to see its appeal and worth before most anyone else. In this episode you’ll get an inside look at the decision making process of a pioneering real estate developer, and hear how he approached the many challenges along the way. David and Thea talk about their work as founders and co-chairs of the Wynwood Arts District Association (WADA), which later became the bustling Wynwood Business Improvement District. Hear how Thea and David took on the neighborhood’s responsibilities - David took on security, Thea took on clean streets. "It was a remarkable moment,” explains Thea about the transitioning period. “There were no basic services. We had no garbage pickup. We had no crosswalks. We had no light bulbs in the streets... we had to lift ourselves up as a community.” Thea Goldman is a Miami real estate expert and entrepreneur, neighborhood igniter, community builder, pioneering restaurateur, mom to Jake, former model, and Pizza Master.