In this episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen welcomes Lauren Maxwell, a longtime Naples resident, mortgage banker, and community supporter who has called Naples home since 1988. Lauren shares what first brought her from Massachusetts to Southwest Florida, the small-town charm she remembers, and her perspective on how Naples has grown from quiet roads and early neighborhoods into the thriving community it is today.

Lauren offers an honest look at growth, housing affordability, real estate, and why she believes Naples still holds its charm despite change. The conversation also explores her heart for giving back, especially to children and families in Immokalee, as well as the resilience she developed through hurricanes, the 2007 market crash, and rebuilding her business stronger than before. 

“Growth equals opportunity… people want to come here. Who wouldn’t want to come here? To me, it’s the best place in the whole world.” — Lauren Maxwell.

Thank you to our location sponsor, Gulfshore Playhouse, for allowing us to use their Founder's Lounge. 

Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.