“Is that Pop flying overhead?” That’s a common question in the Henderson household—because yes, it probably is. 

Pop, also known as Dr. Greg Henderson, loves flying around the skies of Tampa. So if you see a helicopter nearby, it might just be him.

For Christa and Matt Henderson, life on Davis Islands is anything but ordinary. Between garage jam sessions, bike rides with the kids, and spontaneous dance parties, this fun-loving family brings music, energy, and a sense of community to every corner of the neighborhood.

Walk down a block on Davis Islands, and you might hear the distant rhythm of a band rehearsal drifting from the Hendersons’ garage. It’s not just background noise—it’s the sound of joy, creativity, and community, all hallmarks of Christa and Matt Henderson’s family life.

Originally from the Tampa area, Christa grew up in Odessa and graduated from the Academy of the Holy Names. Matt is a Valrico native who graduated from Berkeley Prep. The two met during their freshman year at the University of Florida in Gainesville and have been inseparable ever since. After spending a decade in Tampa, including five years on Davis Islands, they recently celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary.

Christa, a former elementary school teacher turned stay-at-home mom, is actively involved in their children’s school and extracurriculars. She also lends a hand with Matt’s latest passion project: Loud Studios, a multi-functional music space right over the bridge in Pinellas that houses a rehearsal and recording studio, and eventually, a live music venue. The studio is set to open this August!  In tandem, he recently launched Ingold Guitars, a boutique guitar manufacturing company based in Seminole Heights.

Matt’s love for music started at eight with piano lessons. “But I switched to guitar at thirteen because of Kurt Cobain and Slash—and never looked back,” he says. A musician at heart, Matt’s path also included politics and land development before circling back to his creative roots. Now, he blends his musical talent and entrepreneurial spirit into something uniquely his.

Meet the Kids

Their kids—Price (7), Lane (5), and Hayes (3)—are as vibrant as the household they’ve grown up

in.

“Price is the best little dude ever,” says Matt proudly. “He’s independent, creative, and such a fun companion—especially at Bucs games.” A student at Gorrie Elementary, Price is into baseball, videogames, and just started exploring rock concerts with a bang—literally. “We’re taking him to see Metallica next week,” Matt shares. “It’s time he sees a proper pyrotechnic show!”

Lane, their middle child, starts kindergarten this fall. “She’s our sweet animal lover,” says Christa. “She’s all about dress-up, dolls, and girl time.” Matt laughs, “She’s constantly asking for a puppy. I’m allergic, but she’s persistent.  I’m sure I’ll cave one day.” Lane’s dry humor and emotional intuition make her a quietly powerful presence.

Then there’s Hayes—the family’s three-year-old firecracker. “He hasn’t met a stranger,” says Matt. “He’s got this kinetic energy that draws everyone in.” Whether it’s his love for The Hulk, ninja moves, or playing the drums, Hayes brings the party wherever he goes. “I even bought him boxing gloves because I got tired of being punched by his bare fists,” Matt jokes.

Weekends with the Hendersons are lively and family-focused. “You’ll find us at Bayshore Little League watching Price and Lane play ball, or grabbing breakfast at Farrell’s,” says Christa. Fridays often include post-school ice cream runs or jam sessions with neighbors. “Our garage turns into a mini concert venue,” Matt adds. “The kids grab instruments, and friends’ kids join in. It’s loud—and it’s awesome.”  

Music is central to their lifestyle, but so is community. “We’ve got neighbors we met at the bus stop who are now lifelong friends,” Christa shares. “There’s something really special about raising your kids alongside people you genuinely love being around.”  They refer to their neighborhood band as The Davis Island Sound Machine and jam regularly at Molly Malone’s Open Mic on Thursday Nights.

Fitness, fun, and adventure round out their weekends—whether it’s gym workouts at Sukha, bike rides with the kids in tow, or enjoying concerts, comedy shows, and eating good food. The family loves traveling to the mountains of North Carolina or Colorado, but they’re beach bums at heart.

One of the biggest blessings has been having Matt’s father, Dr. Greg “Pop” Henderson, just four doors down. A respected local ophthalmologist with Florida Eye Specialists—and a licensed helicopter pilot—Pop is a hands-on grandfather who picks the kids up for school and takes them on thrilling golf cart rides to Peter O. Knight where he keeps his aircraft. “There’s nothing cooler than hearing, ‘Is that Pop in the sky?’” says Christa with a laugh.

For the Hendersons, life on Davis Islands is more than idyllic—it’s deeply rooted in connection, creativity, and celebration. “I grew up surrounded by orange groves,” says Matt. “And I never knew the beauty of true community until now. If you’re ever in a pinch—or just in need of a jam session or a cold drink—you’ll find exactly what you need here.”

So next time you are biking by and hear drums, guitar, and a little girl singing at the top of her lungs, don’t be shy. That’s probably the Hendersons—and they’d love to welcome you in.