Building Community, Not Just Buildings: Meet Harrison Taylor

In this heart-forward episode of Shady Characters, hosts Evan Burgher and Tim DeBrincat sit down with Harrison Taylor, Director of Leasing & Development at Almquist, and one of the key minds behind River Street Market — the new cultural hub redefining San Juan Capistrano.

Harrison shares what it’s like to raise four kids on Los Rios Street, the oldest residential street in California, and why the community’s small-town heartbeat is something he never plans to leave. From Trader Joe’s managers picking figs off his tree to seeing neighbors at River Street every weekend, he reflects on how intentionally connected San Juan really is — and why he believes that’s worth protecting.

He walks through his unexpected career pivot: leaving a decade in corporate electrical and solar sales, joining the Planning Commission to learn the development world from the inside, and ultimately being tapped by developer Dan Almquist to help shape River Street’s tenant mix. Harrison breaks down how he evaluates brands, why personality matters as much as financials, the wild story of landing Kovás Boots, and the pressure of curating a space that both honors history and brings something new.

Beyond development, Harrison opens up about starting Rad Dads, a men’s group born out of church, friendship, and vulnerability. He shares stories of pushing past comfort zones, dealing with stress and mental health, and the surprising power of showing up for other men in similar stages of life.

The conversation ranges from generational rowing stories and heirloom rings, to family legacy, surfing accidents, faith, and finding your place in a fast-moving world. At its core, this episode is about community — how to build it, how to protect it, and how to grow with it.

A must-listen for anyone who loves San Juan, is curious about development, or believes deeply in the value of showing up for the people around you.