Spotlight on Good People by Robert of Philadelphia
This is your go-to source for inspiration, shining a light on the unsung heroes of Naples and Southwest Florida. From heartwarming stories to practical tips, we celebrate the people who make our slice of paradise more connected, compassionate, and kind. In a world full of noise, we’re here to uplift, inform, and inspire — one story at a time.
Episodes
59 episodes
Saving Southwest Florida Families: A Community Solution to the Foster Care Crisis
Imagine standing between your parents with a baseball bat at just six years old, desperate to protect your mother—that was the terrified reality that forged the unstoppable spirit of today’s guest, Megan. In this episode of Spo...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 39
•
1:30:27
Is Your Old Jewelry a Gold Mine? Custom Design Secrets & The Future of Craftsmanship
With gold prices spiking over $4,600 an ounce and lab-grown diamonds disrupting the market, the jewelry industry is undergoing a massive shift. In this episode of Spotlight on Good People, we go behind the scenes at Venetian Village in Naples, ...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 38
•
1:48:53
Escaping the Big Four: Why Top Talent ls Moving to Naples for Sunshine and Zero State Tax
In this episode of *Spotlight on Good People*, Robert sits down with **Michael DeLuca**, Principal at HBK CPAs and Consultants, to discuss the rapidly changing landscape of business and the "messy beautiful complexity" of leadership. Moving bey...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 37
•
1:51:44
Naples Before the Billionaires: Clearing Land for the Ritz-Carlton in the 80s
From mopping floors at the Ramada Inn to transforming Fortune 500 giants like UPS and Iron Mountain, Jeff Kaminski shares a 40-year journey of leadership and friendship. In this episode, we reveal the "unseen history of Southwest Florida-...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 36
•
2:37:16
A Heartwarming Conversation with Patrick Dearborn: Community, Service, and Resilience
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Patrick Dearborn, a multifaceted community leader in Naples, Florida, to discuss the intertwining roles of community service, personal resilience, and the importance of staying true to one’s values. P...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 35
•
1:52:03
The Confidence Crisis: Why 1 in 3 SWFL Girls Are Struggling & How Running Saving Lives | Girls on the Run
Are girls in Southwest Florida facing a mental health emergency? Data shows that one in three girls seriously consider suicide, and over 70% report feeling sad or depressed,. In this episode, we sit down with Kristen Manomat, Executive Director...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 34
•
1:17:22
Running the Distance: Family, Ultra Marathons, and Giving Back
Join us in an inspiring conversation that weaves together the themes of family heritage, the mental and physical demands of ultramarathons, and the power of community building. Jamie DePaola shares profound insights into her Cherokee and Italia...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 33
•
2:18:40
Capturing the Soul of Naples: An Interview with Eileen Arsenault
In this episode, we delve deep into the heart of Naples with Eileen Arsenault, a longtime resident and living archive of the town's rich history. Eileen shares fascinating stories about her new 240-page book filled with colorful pictures, vinta...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 32
•
2:01:55
From Rock Bottom to Redemption: The John Huffman Story
In this powerful episode, John Huffman shares his incredible journey from addiction and despair to becoming a successful entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and devoted father. Hear about John's early life struggles, a life-changing encounter w...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 31
•
1:11:03
Building Wealth and Giving Back: Bill Beynon's Story of Success and Philanthropy
Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the life and journey of William "Bill" Beynon. Discover how growing up in a small steel town shaped his values, the pivotal moments that led him to start Capital Wealth Advisors, and his imp...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 30
•
1:14:33
Nurturing Young Hearts: Lori's Passion for Arts Education
Join us in this heartwarming episode as we delve into the life and mission of Lori Oliver, the passionate leader behind the Naples Performing Arts Center (NPAC). Lori shares her inspiring journey from her early love for performing arts to becom...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 29
•
1:36:08
Fierce, Fed & Free: Laura's Real Talk on Women, Wellness & Nutrition
In this episode of 'Spotlight on Good People,' we meet Laura Dalsanto Wu, founder of Bella Diva Wellness. Laura shares her journey from competitive fitness to facing a life-changing health scare that reshaped her outlook on wellness. She emphas...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 28
•
1:44:41
Navigating Life and Business: How Synergy, Thrive, and Community Shape Dr. Stephanie Ahasic's World
In this episode, we dive into an engaging conversation with Dr. Stephanie Ahasic, a dedicated chiropractor and the driving force behind Synergy Health and Thrive IV Bar in Naples, Florida. Stephanie shares her journey from Chicago to Naples, pr...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 27
•
2:42:04
From Addict to Architect of His Own Life: Blake's Sobriety Story
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Blake shares his extraordinary journey from addiction and crime to becoming a successful entrepreneur and community leader. Blake reflects on his struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction, his turning...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 26
•
1:10:11
From Local Diamonds to Major League Dreams: The Inspiring Journey of Carmen Cali
In this episode of the Spotlight on Good People, we sit down with Carmen Cali, the first Naples High School graduate to reach Major League Baseball. Carmen shares his journey from humble beginnings in Naples, Florida, to playing for the St. Lou...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 25
•
2:11:27
Crafting Connections, Lives, and Diamonds: The Art of Jewelry Concierge with Michelle Zack
In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with Michelle, a passionate jeweler who brings a unique, personal touch to her craft. Michelle shares the essence of her work, from redesigning heirloom pieces to creating custom jewelry that embodies h...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 24
•
3:00:45
From Weights to Worth: Redefining Women’s Power
What if your workout saved your spirit? In this episode, Holly Strickland shares the remarkable journey of building a women-centered fitness community where strength isn’t just measured in reps — it’s measured in how we show up for each other. ...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 23
•
1:33:48
Casino Myths, Water Truths: How the Tribe Funds Conservation
If you think the Miccosukee are history—think again. Popeye Osceola, Secretary of the Miccosukee Business Council, joins us for a gripping conversation on sovereignty, survival, and why protecting the Everglades and Big Cypress isn’t just cultu...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 22
•
1:37:24
A Second Chance at Life and Leadership: Brian Roland’s Comeback Story
After a near-fatal accident, Chef Brian Roland could have stepped away from it all. Instead, he stepped into something deeper. In this unforgettable episode, Brian opens up about recovery, resilience, and rediscovering purpose—not just in the k...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 21
•
2:39:39
The Last Independent: How JC Nocera Built Naples' Most Trusted Auto Empire Against All Odds
In this deeply moving 2-hour conversation, JR Nocera opens up about his incredible journey from professional baseball player to building one of Naples' most respected family businesses. After being dropped by five major insurance companies in 4...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 20
•
2:47:15
Delco Roots, Big Heart: How Olivia is Changing Young Lives Every Day
If you’ve ever doubted whether one person can make a difference, meet Olivia Sciocchetti.She’s the kind of teacher who sees brilliance in chaos, who hears a full sentence in a quiet pointing gesture, and who gives her whole heart to ...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 19
•
1:24:12
From Diagnosis to Lifeline: One Mother’s Mission to Save Lives
When Tami Balavage’s teenage son was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, her world flipped in an instant. But instead of breaking down, she rose up — and built something extraordinary.In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Spotl...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 18
•
1:16:51
What Happens When Healthcare Starts With Humanity
When you’re told you have cancer, you’re thrown into a world of fear, confusion, and decisions that can change everything. But what if someone showed up, not to bill you — but to walk with you?In this powerful and compassionate episode, ...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 17
•
1:23:29
Behind the Smile: Tiffany McQuaid on Faith, Failure, and Fortitude
What do Styx lyrics, a jar of Dum-Dums, and Zig Ziglar wisdom have in common? They’re all threads in the vibrant tapestry of Tiffany McQuaid’s life and leadership. In this joyful, unfiltered, and fiercely honest episode, Tiff...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 16
•
1:37:26
He Broke His Neck—and Built a Path to Healing for Millions
One moment he was diving into a lake. The next, he woke up with a fractured neck, a traumatic brain injury, and a life forever altered.Jordan Dunin’s story begins in the silence that follows crisis—after a freak diving acciden...
•
Season 1
•
Episode 15
•
2:11:09