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
64 episodes
40 Years of Building Wealth, Family Legacy, and the Naples Community
For over four decades, Kim Ciccarelli Kantor has helped shape the financial and cultural landscape of Southwest Florida as the co-founder and President of Ciccarelli Advisory Services. In this episode, we explore her family's deep roots in Napl...
The $34 Billion Wealth Transfer & Protecting Naples' Future
For 13 years, Eileen Connolly-Kessler has served as the President and CEO of the Collier Community Foundation, an organization that has distributed over $400 million to local causes. In this episode, we explore the hidden needs of our wealthy c...
45 Years of Shaping the Naples Brand & Surviving the Hustle | Episode #42 Robyn Bonaquist
For 45 years, Robyn Bonaquist has had a front-row seat to the explosion of Naples, Florida—evolving from a young newspaper editor to the founder and president of B2 Advertising. In this episode, we explore the nostalgic history of Southwest Flo...
The Terrifying 344% Rise in Antisemitism (And How We Fight Back) | Episode #41 Erin Blankenship
For 25 years, Erin Blankenship has dedicated her life to preserving the stories of Holocaust survivors and educating the next generation. In this episode, we explore the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center's newest permanent exhibit, ...
#40 Chad Oliver: Life After NBC-2 News
The former NBC-2 anchor breaks his silence on why he left the news desk to lead communications for Collier County Public Schools. Chad Oliver opens up about the "white-collar assembly line" of daily news, the pressure of li...
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...
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, ...
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...
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-...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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. ...
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...
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...
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...
