From the Corner Office

Kim oversees the entrepreneurship center at the State College of Florida, where she works with and guides entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, founders, and aspiring founders. Prior to that Kim worked in branding and marketing for several iconic American brands, including Sears, Kraft Foods and FAO Schwarz, where she had profit and loss responsibility for up to $2 billion. In 2006 she founded her own marketing, branding and digital strategy firm, richmondmarketing+communications.  Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Kim talked about how Kim navigated the early parts of career, in Corporate America, with an emphasis on taking risks, resiliency and curiosity. They also talked about how and why Kim changed gears in her career four years ago, to mentor startup business owners. And listen for the fun stories about when she worked for iconic toy brand FAO Schwarz.    3 Takeaways: (04:45) Leaders have to articulate and inspire towards a vision(06:00) It’s not enough to just maintain the business(14:50) Integrity, honesty, and curiosity are non-negotiable Timestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:50) Introducing Kim Richmond and 26 West (02:20) Kim’s career and growing into leadership (05:10) Learning from leaders (07:40) FAO Schwarz and selling to a hedge fund (11:00) Hiring actors as retail workers and marketing magic (14:32) What do you look for in leaders? (16:55) Guaranteeing success (21:00) What is coming for 26 West (23:55) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

A sixth-generation Floridian, Kevin founded Tampa-based Golden Road Advisors, a registered investment advisor firm, in 2021. Prior to Golden Road, Kevin was a financial advisor for wealth management companies in the area, including Morgan Keegan and a decade with Raymond James. A proud University of Florida alum, Kevin also helped launch the school’s wealth management studies program and teaches a class on finance at the school.    Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Kevin spoke about his mindset on helping mentor and guide the next generation of financial industry leaders — a key, he says, is to avoid making broad judgements and generalizations about Gen Z and millennials. Kevin also talked about the values he believes every leader should have. And stay tuned for some rapid fire questions with a distinct Gator theme.  3 Takeaways: (08:25) You can’t hire someone unless you are willing to take responsibility for their family(13:45) Build the job you wish you had in the industry(14:10) Start with the end in mind and work backward Timestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (01:20) What is Golden Road Advisors? (02:00) Going out on his own, it’s about starting (04:45) Teaching at UF and hiring Gen Z (09:10) Building an apprenticeship program (11:40) Kevin’s experience working with Gen Z (13:20) Advice for other businesses hiring Gen Z (16:15) What have you learned as an entrepreneur through this apprenticeship program? (19:50) Where will you be in 3-5 years? (21:15) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Jennifer has been at the helm of the foundation, which supports and enhances the Sarasota School District’s public education system, since 2015. Prior to joining the foundation Jennifer worked in banking, real estate, fundraising and more.  Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Jennifer talked about the mission of the foundation, including its why: ensuring success for students and teachers. They also talked about her winding career and how she found a way to lead and help others advance in their careers — and life. And they talked about what she looks for in good leaders, with integrity and curiosity at the top of the list.  3 Takeaways: (03:55) Relationships are everything(11:10) Leadership is the values you uphold(14:25) Aim for excellence, not perfection Timestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:50) Introducing Jennifer Vigne, CEO of Education Foundation of Sarasota County (03:55) How did you get to the Education Foundation? (05:05) What is the mission of the Education Foundation? (06:30) How did you know you wanted to be a leader? (10:45) Characteristics of good leadership? (14:00) Developing as a leader (17:00) What is a failure you learned from? (18:50) What is on the horizon in 2025? (22:10) Rapid fire questions

John is a Philly guy who has taken to loving his new adopted hometown in Manatee County. He worked in accounting and finance for the Philadelphia Phillies baseball team for 15 years, starting as an intern in the ticketing office and working his way up to director of finance. He and his family relocated to the area in 2020, where he took a position heading up finance and accounting for the University Park Country Club. He was named COO and GM in 2021.   Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and John spoke about the challenges in having multiple boards and people in charge with the homeowner associations at UPCC, and how he navigates that. They also talked about his keys to advancing in an organization, which is wrapped around hustle, integrity and paying attention to details. And, of course, John and Mark talked about his passion for all things Philly sports (and cheesesteaks) and the resiliency and character he developed in having grown up there.       3 Takeaways: (08:40) The power of networking is undeniable(14:30) Lead with empathy(16:20) You have 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason Timestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:30) Introducing John Fetsick, COO and General Manager of University Park Country Club (02:00) How John makes decisions for 2500+ constituents (06:20) Growing up in Philadelphia and working for the Phillies (10:22) Lessons from working with the Phillies (12:30) Putting yourself in position to become Director of Finance (14:15) What do you look for in leaders? (16:15) Leadership advice (18:00) Working in the Moneyball Era (19:30) Overcoming setbacks (21:45) Moving from Philadelphia to Sarasota (24:15) UPCC in 2025 (25:45) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

John started an IT consulting business (now managed service provider, MSP) while a junior at the University of Florida in 2007. He sold that company to CRS in 2015. The Cape Coral-based company works with a host of companies in Southwest Florida on technology and related issues.  Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and John talked about CRS’ core values — passion, respect, collaboration and innovation — and the role they play in the company’s culture, and its success. They also talked about how and why CRS downsized its client roster, and became a more efficient and profitable business. And listen for the rapid-fire questions, where John, an admitted tech-geek, readily names what he says is the best Star Wars movie.   3 Takeaways: (06:55) The transition from clients to partners was essential(09:15) We were on pace for vanilla mediocrity, we had to change(21:00) What is the cost of? Timestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:30) Introducing John Joyce and CRS Technology Consultants  (02:45) How CRS Technology Consultants has evolved (05:45) Purposefully shrinking the client list  (10:05) How the company operates today (12:00) What do you look for in up and coming leaders? (13:55) Core Values (14:45) Learning from mentors and mistakes (21:20) The Solid State Podcast (23:50) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Yvonne is the founder and CEO of Workforce Development Partners, a nonprofit in the Tampa Bay region that connects high school students with trades and other companies. She’s also an entrepreneur, who has started and grown a branding company and talent agency, among other firms, and a dedicated and visible economic development cheerleader for the Tampa Bay region, especially east Hillsborough County and Plant City.   Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Yvonne talked about how her work ethic was shaped by growing up on a farm and the lessons she learned as a child about leadership, resilience and integrity.  3 Takeaways: (05:00) Soft skills are so important in upcoming members of the workforce(17:00) Integrity is the most important characteristic of leadership(19:13) Everything is done through a teamTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:30) Introducing Yvonne Fry, CEO of Workforce Development Partners (01:00) The genesis of this program and the benefits (05:45) Growing up on a farm and finding this career (10:20) Standout projects (13:35) Leadership advice (16:40) Characteristics of leadership (19:45) Setbacks (23:30) Looking forward to 2025 (25:30) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Ron has been a prominent business and health care attorney in Tampa and Florida for more than two decades. He currently oversees Shumaker Advisors, a public policy firm that works with clients in Florida, as well as nationally and globally, on a host of regulatory and government issues. Ron is also known across Tampa Bay and Florida for his diverse civic leadership; he’s currently chair of the Tampa Economic Development Council and has top roles on myriad other boards, including Leadership Florida.     Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Ron talked about his leadership mindset, and how it starts with integrity and honesty, revolving around problem-solving. They talked about how he knew he wanted to be an attorney — it dates back to a big win in fifth grade in New Jersey. And they talked about how Ron chooses the groups he volunteers his time with. Also, listen for the why behind Ron’s passion for a sharp necktie.    3 Takeaways: (01:50) We all have a responsibility to lift up our community(17:00) Understand the power of delegation and be self aware of your limitations(19:35) If you find yourself doing everything, you will get nothing doneTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:25) Introducing Ron Christaldi, President and CEO of Shumaker Advisors, plus a lot more (04:20) What does Shumaker Advisors do? Plus his first experience changing a law (10:00) The importance of connecting people (13:00) First interest in becoming a lawyer (16:05) Leading other lawyers (20:14) Characteristics of upcoming leaders (23:40) Shumaker Advisors in 2025 (26:05) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Erin Silk has been at the helm of the EDC since June 2023. She held other titles with the organization before that promotion, including COO and vice president of business development services. Prior to joining the EDC, Erin was CEO of Venice Main Street Inc., a community revitalization organization in south Sarasota County.  Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Erin talked about her passion for economic development and the whys behind her and the team’s mission at the EDC. They also talked about the leadership characteristics that matter most to her, and the steps she has taken to recruit and retain not only businesses — but an internal team at the EDC to execute on that mission. And they even went back in time a bit, talking about when Erin founded an animal rescue nonprofit — while in college.  3 Takeaways (14:55) This is serious business but let’s care about each other(17:30) Culture is the separator of good and great companies(23:05) When hiring, find a recruiter who truly understands your visionTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:30) Introducing Erin Silk, President and CEO of the EDC of Sarasota County (04:30) Starting her own 501(c)3 (06:45) What do you do at the EDC? (11:20) Taking over the EDC after two great leaders (14:30) Being mentored by Lisa Krouse (16:30) Learning from other businesses (19:00) Building her team (22:40) Advice for finding great team members (24:55) EDC in 2025 (29:15) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Seth is a dermatologist by trade but also has a variety of other pieces to his career: He founded a research practice, CenExcel, and also owns multiple commercial real estate properties in north Tampa, where he’s developing a medical hub. Seth is also a philanthropist, having donated significantly to Hillel Academy in Tampa, where two buildings are named after him.  Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Seth talked about his early career goals — which include a detour to Hollywood to become a screenwriter — and how he ended up in medicine. They also talked about his mindset to build a medical practice where he’s not dependent on big medical groups or landlords to sustain a viable business — and the lessons he learned along the way.     3 Takeaways: (02:55) You have to attack the problem right in front of you(04:20) The thing you find is always the last place you look(11:20) You cannot lead by sitting downTimestamps: (00:42) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (01:07) Introducing Dr. Seth Forman, Founder of CenExcel (02:54) Biggest challenges growing your organization (04:17) The path to success is pervasive in any type of discipline (06:17) Detouring in Hollywood as a script writer and overcoming challenges (10:57) I don’t know if I am any good, I just try the longest (11:48) Leadership advice (12:37) Mentors (14:02) What is next for the medical group? (16:42) Diversification (17:37) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Franceen Gonzales has more than 35 years experience in the amusement park and leisure and entertainment industry. She was named president of Legoland Florida Resort in Polk County in June. Prior to Legoland, Franceen was an executive for WhiteWater West, Great Wolf Resorts and Six Flags.   Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Franceen talked about how she went from wanting to become a doctor (was pre-med at Stanford) to getting into a career in waterparks and amusement parks. They also talked about how she overcame some of her biggest career challenges and how she balances empathy with accountability in leadership. And listen for Franceen’s recommendation for the coolest theme park in the world: it’s in Guatemala.  3 Takeaways: (10:40) When you’re right, defend yourself, when your wrong, make it whole (17:45) Moral character is a non-negotiable (19:00) Coaching means having empathy and discipline Timestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:30) Introducing Franceen Gonzales, President of Legoland Florida Resort (01:30) Franceen’s origin story, starting at a waterpark (04:15) Obstacles throughout career (06:00) Managing a waterpark at 25 years old (09:20) What Franceen learned from her biggest mentor (11:20) Crisis Management (14:00) How did you end up at Legoland Florida Resort (17:30) What do you look for in good leaders? (20:40) Balancing empathy and accountability (21:35) What are you looking forward to on Legoland? (23:40) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

This week we speak with Josh and Alan Bomstein. Alan Bomstein is the founder of Clearwater-based Creative Contractors, which he launched, a bit by accident, he says in 1974. His son Josh Bomstein was recently named CEO of the company. With about $190 million in revenue, the company’s portfolio of notable projects includes the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, BayCare corporate headquarters and the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation. Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon spoke with Alan and Josh about the early days of the business 50 years ago (it involved building an ice rink inside a Florida mall in 1979) and the projects that define the business today. Alan also talked about how the company overcame an audit crisis in the late 1980s, while Josh talked about the lessons he’s learned while working with his dad.  3 Takeaways: (01:45) I wanted to instill integrity in everything we do(02:45) Do not underestimate the power of the referral(22:00) Knowing what is going on financially in your business is paramountTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkerking Barberio! (00:25) Introducing Alan and Josh Bomstein, Founder and CEO of Creative Contractors (01:10) What defined Creative Contractors 50 years ago? (03:22) Growing up in the business (05:10) Defining projects for Creative Contractors (13:00) Lessons learned from running this business (18:05) Setbacks you overcame (22:25) What are we looking forward to in 2025? (24:30) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

This week, we speak with Bill Daubmann, CEO and founder of MY Shower Door. Bill founded Fort Myers-based MY Shower Door in 2003, and the company has since grown to nearly 200 employees with a presence in Florida and recently North Carolina. Prior to that Bill was in the closet design and installation business, and prior to that he was a professional hockey referee. Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Bill talked about what motivated him to become an entrepreneur (it involves one of his two sons being diagnosed with cancer when he was a young boy). They also talked about the advice he gives to new entrepreneurs — namely focus on your why over money or hours worked. And they talked about his biggest regret early on in the business: not doing more marketing.   3 Takeaways: (05:00) Most entrepreneurs will succeed if they listen to the market(09:35) Leaders are all about attitude and bringing others along(12:05) “Do you job and have fun”Timestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkerking Barberio! (00:30) Introducing Bill Daubmann, Founder and CEO of My Shower Door (02:40) How Bill became an entrepreneur (04:45) Having the mindset to adapt (05:55) Tipping points for My Shower Door (07:00) Advice for start up entrepreneurs (09:30) What Bill looks for in leaders (11:25) Standout advice (13:10) Setbacks (15:00) Getting into NIL with Michigan football walk on Peter Simmons (17:45) My Shower Door in 2025 (19:20) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Beck is the co-founder of 3D Cloud, a virtual reality and augmented reality software firm that works with furniture retailers, kitchen cabinet manufacturers and others. He previously founded another tech company that transaction processing giant NCR acquired in 2003. He was also a senior executive with Catalina Marketing in St. Petersburg for five years.   Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Beck talked about his career in starting technology companies, including 3D Cloud, and how being first to market can be both exhilarating and risky. They also talked about his 2023 book, the Good Works Habit Toolbox — and why curiosity and humility are two traits he looks for in employees and leaders.  3 Takeaways: (15:35) You create a culture by building a series of habits(22:00) Former entrepreneurs might be your best investors(25:18) Curiosity is extremely important for an entrepreneurTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:30) Introducing Beck Besecker, founder and CEO of 3D Cloud (03:53) What is 3D Cloud? (09:40) Tipping points throughout 3D Cloud’s life (12:30) The Good Works Habit Toolbox (15:20) Cultural habits (17:55) The power of the 5x5 (19:40) Raising money as an entrepreneur (24:45) Leadership advice (28:00) 3D Cloud in 2024/2025 (29:05) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Veronica was named executive director of the Manatee Community Foundation in August 2023. Prior to that role she was a senior vice president and COO of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. And before that she worked in human resources in health care, including managing 1,300 employees at Blake Medical Center in Bradenton.   Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Veronica talked about some of her toughest leadership challenges under pressure — such as overseeing a nighttime hospital evacuation in a blackout. They talked about her best advice — namely, to fail forward and never wallow in what goes wrong. And they talked about how she immigrated with her family to the United States from Argentina when she was 19, initially a move she didn’t want to make.   3 Takeaways: (11:50) Hurricane Irma evacuation experience (16:35) Good leaders are inspirational, collaborative, and can cast and execute a vision(20:00) Be who you are meant to beTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:25) Introducing Veronica Thames, Executive Director of Manatee Community Foundation (04:20) Finding your footing in a new country (07:20) Leadership experience at HCA (10:45) Handling extreme pressure (13:40) Joining the Manatee Community Foundation (16:20) Leadership characteristics (18:00) Leadership advice (21:25) Setback that you learned from (24:10) What is coming up for Manatee Community Foundation? (26:45) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Dr. Larry R. Thompson became president of Ringling College of Art and Design in July 1999. As the head of this pre-eminent art and design college, he is transforming the way people think about art and design and why businesses must infuse creativity to thrive. A lawyer and an educator, Thompson served as Special Assistant to the President of The Ohio State University, President/CEO of Flint Cultural Center in Michigan, and was the founding Executive Director/CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio prior to joining Ringling College. He is the former president of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design and currently serves as a member of its executive committee, is chair of the President’s Council of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida, and serves on boards of many local arts and civic organizations. 3 Takeaways: (13:15) It’s not about the leader, it’s about the people around the leader(17:15) Leaders need to be able to listen(18:05) Don’t try to be the smartest person in the room, be part of something larger than yourselfTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio! (00:25) 25 years as President of Ringling College of Art and Design  (01:40) How Larry got to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (05:10) What was Ringling College like in 1999? (07:30) Growing Ringling College (11:20) Shattering the myth of the starving artist (13:00) Navigating the pandemic (16:00) What do you look for in leaders? (17:55) Leadership advice (19:10) Best and hardest parts of being a college president (22:10) Infusing Ringling College into the community (23:00) What is next for Ringling College? Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Robert Hensley has been president and CEO of Integrity Employee Leasing since 2021. The company handles back-office services for small and mid-sized businesses, from payroll processing and workers’ compensation coverage to timekeeping and employee benefits management. The Charlotte County company has clients with employees in 20 states. Prior to Integrity, Robert was a franchisee for First Watch in the Miami area; Taco Bell across Southwest Florida; and Dunkin’ Donuts in the Atlanta area.  Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Robert talk about his approach to leading others, what he looks for in a leader (trust and integrity are big ones) and how he has overcome mistakes and setbacks. They also talked about his get-after-it approach to work, starting when he was a teenager at Burger King through when he led major expansion initiatives as a franchisee for Taco Bell and Dunkin’ Donuts.   3 Takeaways: (06:10) If you put your name on it, make sure it is right(11:10) Producing producers is the greatest part of being a leader(13:43) Let people do what they do without interferenceTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:25) Introducing Robert Hensley, President and CEO of Integrity Employee Leasing (03:25) How did you get started in this? (05:05) How did you have the work ethic as a teenager? (07:00) Becoming a franchisee (09:10) Learning experiences (11:00) Best parts of being a leader (12:38) Hardest part of being a leader (13:28) Leadership advice (14:48) Mentors (17:50) What is coming up for Integrity Employee Leasing? (19:40) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Erin Duggan is president and CEO of Visit Sarasota County, a position she was appointed to after 18 years with the organization. Prior to being named CEO, Duggan was public relations manager, brand director and vice president.   Together, Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Erin talk about her leadership lessons working in several different positions at VSC, what she learned from her mentors and how, as a new CEO, she’s finding her own leadership style — and staying away from micromanaging.  3 Takeaways: (05:45) Tourism is the front door of economic development(11:50) You have got to hire the right people and let them do their thing(19:45) There is no comfort in growth and no growth in comfortTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:25) Introducing Erin Duggan, President and CEO of Visit Sarasota County (03:25) How did you get into Visit Sarasota? (05:35) When did you know you wanted to grow your career at Visit Sarasota? (09:05) What have you learned about leadership being the CEO? (11:10) How do you build trust with your employees? (15:05) Best part of being a leader (18:10) Least favorite part of being a leader (19:30) Leadership advice (22:55) Mentors and what you learned from them (26:00) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Ian Black has been in the commercial real estate industry for some 60 years, first in his native Northern Ireland and, since 1982, Sarasota. He founded his own company in 2003, and Ian Black Real Estate over the past 20 years has worked on, brokered and played a key part in several prominent Sarasota projects, especially downtown and in the Rosemary district. Ian is also on multiple civic and nonprofit boards in Sarasota, leading to city officials declaring Oct. 6 Ian Black Day.   Together, Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Ian talked about the secrets to a long career in commercial real estate — namely his management model that allows for brokers to grow and own parts of the success. They also talked about working in Ireland during The Troubles of the 1970s and 1980s and a key piece of advice Ian learned from his father, about trust and integrity, from a Mark Twain quote. Ian also says the key to the city on Ian Black Day was a big honor — but the key doesn’t actually open anything.   3 Takeaways: (10:40) Giving people ownership provides stability in the company(12:10) You are only as good as your reputation(19:30) Leave the world better than you found itTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:25) Introducing Ian Black, Founder of Ian Black Real Estate (04:40) Having your office bombed (06:30) How life experiences prepare you for entrepreneurship (07:30) Starting Ian Black Real Estate (09:00) The importance of leadership (11:10) What do you look for in other leaders? (12:55) Learning from your parents (14:25) Leadership advice (16:20) Example of a failure you learned from (18:35) Why is being involved in the community important? (22:30) October 6 is officially Ian Black Day in Sarasota (23:45) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Paul Sohl is CEO of the Florida High Tech Corridor Council, an economic development initiative of the University of Central Florida, the University of South Florida and the University of Florida. Paul oversees The Corridor Council’s portfolio of programs supporting research, marketing, workforce and entrepreneurship. Sohl joined The Corridor Council in June 2020, following more than three decades of service in the U.S. Navy. In his last command, Sohl led over 500 civilian and military personnel at the Navy’s Operational Test & Evaluation Force in Norfolk, Virginia,  Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon and Paul talked about how he handled leaving the U.S. Navy after 33 years and transitioned to a civilian career with the Florida High-Tech Corridor. They also talked about his mentors, overcoming a setback — think landing a plane at night on aircraft carrier — and a personal motto he learned about later in life: live for what people say about you in your eulogy, don’t live for what you can add to your resume.  3 Takeaways: (14:40) “Merge into traffic gently”(14:55) First seek to understand then to be understood(26:05) Every day just be a little more curious about somebody elseTimestamps: (00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:30) Introducing Paul Sohl, CEO of Florida High Tech Corridor (03:55) 33-years in the Navy (06:20) Who are some leaders you admire? (09:30) What do you enjoy about being a leader? (11:45) What challenges have you faced as a leader? (15:50) Leadership advice (17:20) Challenges of being yourself as a leader (18:50) Setbacks you have learned from (22:42) Why was Beast a key mentor? (25:30) What can people do to improve their life? (27:00) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.

Natalie Johnson is a co-founder of Vidl Work, where she oversees business development, strategy, and innovation. She also works directly with clients, providing consulting, training, and coaching services. Johnson is also an industry-recognized performance coach, a sought-after keynote speaker and a certified Dare to Lead Facilitator. She’s worked with Johnson & Johnson and Deloitte as well as with the United States Air Force and Department of Defense.  Together, we discuss how Natalie got into her field and the inside details of Brene Brown’s Dare to Lead training — and how companies and organizations could utilize it to help employees be more vulnerable, and have more courage, in work, and life. Listen, too, for how Johnson handled one of her toughest assignments — involving people recently diagnosed with cancer. Oh, and they talked about Johnson’s favorite treat: donuts.   3 Takeaways: (16:42) Almost all audiences look like they are not satisfied(18:30) Great leaders are able to show confident humility(21:07) Your story creates your destinyTimestamps: (00:00) This episode has been sponsored by Kerkering Barberio (00:30) Introducing Natalie Johnson, Co-Founder of Vidl Work (02:00) Natalie’s past (06:25) Growing up in an entrepreneurial environment (07:15) Identifying obstacles and creating a solution (08:20) Dare to Lead and key takeaways (11:00) Examples of success through Dare to Lead (14:20) Natalie’s strategies for public speaking (18:05) Great leadership characteristics (19:45) Mentors (23:55) One way to improve your lives (26:05) Rapid fire questions Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more. Visit businessobserverfl.com for more.