Learn from the best! Our lineup of accomplished speakers brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in diversification and innovation. Get ready to gain practical insights and actionable advice to grow your business.
Keynote
About Jennifer:
Jennifer Johnson is a multi-faceted entrepreneur who has built a successful resale business and transitioned into a renowned coach, author, and podcast host. She helps small businesses achieve their goals through her online academy and coaching programs. She has received numerous accolades and has been featured on several national TV and radio shows.
Favorite Quote:
“Things in life don’t happen to you they happen for you!”
Emcee
About Jessica:
Jessica Rhea is the Senior Director of Experiential Learning & Career Development at Florida Gulf Coast University. She aims to increase student success and career-readiness by integrating real-world experiences like service-learning and internships into their education.
Favorite Quote:
“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire.”
Breakout Room Speakers
About Tatum:
Tatum Walker is a Senior Business Developer with the Lee County Economic Development Office. She assists businesses with retention and expansion, manages grant funding programs, and has extensive experience in local government management and economic development efforts. She holds a Certified Public Manager designation and is completing her master’s in public administration.
Favorite Quote:
“Adversity does not build character, it reveals it” James Lane Allen
About Susan:
Susan Frantz, an award-winning marketing and PR professional, founded and leads Frantz Marketing Solutions, a firm distinguished by its comprehensive marketing approach. With over 15 years of experience, Susan has driven significant growth for the company, achieving increased revenue, workforce expansion, and a broader service offering. The firm’s success is evident in high-impact campaigns resulting in extensive media coverage and product launch visibility. Susan’s expertise in strategy and thought leadership has been instrumental in these achievements. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susan is actively involved in her community, demonstrating her commitment to both business excellence and social responsibility.
Favorite Quote:
“Innovation isn’t just about embracing new technologies; it’s about transforming our mindset to see endless possibilities in every challenge”
About Reema:
Reema Bhatia Bernhardt, recipient of the Distinguished Entrepreneur Innovator award from SBDC, is on the technology forefront in SWFL. She has also been recognized with various other awards such as multiple 40 under 40 awards, Ganett Top Industry Leader, Best Small Business from Lee County Horizon Council, Inc 5000 Top Companies. She is the co-founder of Stickboy– a software and managed IT firm and Vectra Digital- a digital marketing company, and served as CTO of the 9th largest pizza chain in the country, Jets Pizza. Reema is passionate about supporting startups, pushing personal comfort boundaries constantly and utilizing technology for social good.
Favorite Quote:
“Growth and comfort do not coexist.” – Ginni Rometty, CEO of IBM
About Jennifer:
Jennifer is a Vice President and Wealth Management Advisor for Fifth Third Private Bank in the South Florida region. She and her highly credentialed team are dedicated to helping high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, families and businesses with customized wealth management solutions. Jennifer has extensive experience in the financial industry and began her career path with Fifth Third Bank in Northeastern Ohio in 1998. She continued to grow her career at the Bank eventually leading her to Southwest Florida in 2004, where she continued to take on positions of increasing responsibility until she joined the Private Bank as vice president, wealth management advisor, serving the Naples market in 2022.
Favorite QUote:
“A strong woman looks a challenge dead in the eye and gives it a wink.” – Gina Carey
Fireside Chatters
About Tiffani:
Tiffani Mensch, a seasoned nonprofit professional, is deeply committed to strengthening communities. In her latest role as President and CEO of the United Way of Collier and the Keys, she has focused on enhancing the organization’s community impact. Previously, she led a successful initiative securing a $25 million grant for families in Tennessee and co-founded the Alliance for Better Nonprofits, supporting nonprofits across 25 counties. With extensive experience in fundraising and nonprofit leadership, Tiffani is dedicated to creating thriving communities and holds degrees from the University of Tennessee, Rhode Island School of Design, and Rochester Institute of Technology.
Favorite Quote:
“Find out who you are and do it on purpose.” — Dolly Parton
About Nathalie:
Nathalie White, an accomplished architect with 16 years of experience, leads Schenkel Shultz’s Southwest Florida office. She has designed impactful local projects and even illustrated a children’s book. Notably, after Hurricane Ian, she co-founded Rebuild SWFL, mobilizing volunteers to clean hundreds of homes. Her dedication to the community has earned her recognition as “Defender of the Gulf,” “Southwest Florida Citizen of the Year,” and one of Gulfshore Business’ “40 under 40.”
Favorite Quote:
The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The work of life is to develop it. And the meaning of life is to give your gift away.” -David Viscott
About Kristina:
With over two decades of experience in community building organizations, Kristina Park was recruited to Naples in January 2024 to serve as the President & CEO of the Greater Naples Chamber, the Partnership for Collier’s Future Economy, and The Leadership Collier Foundation. Here, she leads a dynamic team that brings together for-profit, not-for-profit, and governmental partners to accomplish both the organizational and community development goals strategically. Park’s passion for data-driven solutions and creative strategies consistently delivers measurable results and growth.
Favorite Quote:
“Success is not in what you have, but who you are.” – Bo Bennett