Matthew Whitman | The Long Game w/ Jay Roberts #24

Never miss an episode. Sign up for The Long Game newsletter at ProsperGroup.com.

On this episode of The Long Game, Prosper Group CEO Jay Roberts sits down with Matthew Whitman Lazenby, President and CEO of Whitman Family Development and fourth-generation steward of one of Miami's most influential real estate families.

Matthew shares the remarkable story of how his family's journey began in Miami Beach in 1912 and evolved into developing some of the country's most iconic luxury destinations, including Bal Harbour Shops and Brickell City Centre. He discusses the vision behind Bal Harbour Shops, why his grandfather rejected the traditional enclosed mall concept, and how a century of long-term thinking helped build one of the highest-performing retail destinations in the world.

Jay and Matthew also explore the challenges of expanding an iconic property, the future of mixed-use development, Florida's Live Local Act, workforce housing, and the realities of navigating community opposition while planning for the next generation.

The conversation offers valuable lessons on family businesses, leadership, patience, and what it truly means to play the long game when your family's legacy spans more than 100 years.

🎯 TAKEAWAYS:

• The 100+ year history of the Whitman family's real estate legacy
• How Bal Harbour Shops became one of the world's premier luxury shopping destinations
• Why long-term thinking beats short-term decision making in real estate
• The philosophy behind curating unforgettable retail experiences
• The challenges of expanding landmark developments in today's regulatory environment
• How Florida's Live Local Act is reshaping workforce housing
• Lessons on leading a multi-generational family business
• Why preserving a legacy requires constant innovation and thoughtful evolution

Stay up to date with Jay Roberts:

Instagram: @jayroberts
Website: ProsperGroup.com