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B Student Podcast
Betsy Gardner
32 episodes
1 week ago
The B Student Podcast is hosted by Betsy Gardner, the President and CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce. The podcast focuses on exploring the "B side" of influential and dynamic professionals.

Just like the B-side of a record, where deeper, more personal passions often live, this podcast highlights the less publicized yet deeply impactful aspects of these individuals' work and lives. Betsy brings her extensive experience as a CEO, speaker, consultant, and executive coach to dive into conversations with experts from diverse fields.

The goal is to provide listeners with actionable insights, strategies, and inspiration to help them succeed and create meaningful impact in their own careers and communities. Each episode introduces listeners to unique perspectives and lessons on topics like leadership, emotional intelligence, community building, and personal growth—empowering the audience to "be" more successful and impactful in their own lives.

About the host:
Betsy Gardner is a dynamic leader with a diverse professional background. Since January 2017, she has served as the President and CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, where she has been instrumental in modernizing the organization and implementing innovative programs to support local businesses and the community. 

Under her leadership, the chamber has received national recognition, including the North American Chamber Innovation Grand Prize, surpassing larger chambers such as Greater Boston and Vancouver.  Before her tenure at the chamber, Gardner co-founded Longwave Apparel Ltd. in London, a company specializing in luxury UV-protective swimwear. She also served as the Director of Business Development for Mentore Consulting Ltd., focusing on mentoring programs for women in leadership roles. 

A native of Winter Park, Florida, Gardner holds a degree in History from the University of Florida, where she was recognized for her leadership and academic achievements. She is passionate about community development and has been involved in various initiatives, such as "Relaunch: Career Re-entry for Professional Women," which assists women returning to the workforce. She is also known for advocating for important issues and her efforts to make the chamber's programming more inclusive and relevant.

Her leadership style is characterized by a strong bias toward action, strategic clarity, and a commitment to driving transformative revenue growth and innovation. She is dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and is recognized for her ability to energize cross-functional teams to consistently outperform targets.  
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Entrepreneurship
Education,
Business,
Non-Profit,
How To
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The B Student Podcast is hosted by Betsy Gardner, the President and CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce. The podcast focuses on exploring the "B side" of influential and dynamic professionals.

Just like the B-side of a record, where deeper, more personal passions often live, this podcast highlights the less publicized yet deeply impactful aspects of these individuals' work and lives. Betsy brings her extensive experience as a CEO, speaker, consultant, and executive coach to dive into conversations with experts from diverse fields.

The goal is to provide listeners with actionable insights, strategies, and inspiration to help them succeed and create meaningful impact in their own careers and communities. Each episode introduces listeners to unique perspectives and lessons on topics like leadership, emotional intelligence, community building, and personal growth—empowering the audience to "be" more successful and impactful in their own lives.

About the host:
Betsy Gardner is a dynamic leader with a diverse professional background. Since January 2017, she has served as the President and CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, where she has been instrumental in modernizing the organization and implementing innovative programs to support local businesses and the community. 

Under her leadership, the chamber has received national recognition, including the North American Chamber Innovation Grand Prize, surpassing larger chambers such as Greater Boston and Vancouver.  Before her tenure at the chamber, Gardner co-founded Longwave Apparel Ltd. in London, a company specializing in luxury UV-protective swimwear. She also served as the Director of Business Development for Mentore Consulting Ltd., focusing on mentoring programs for women in leadership roles. 

A native of Winter Park, Florida, Gardner holds a degree in History from the University of Florida, where she was recognized for her leadership and academic achievements. She is passionate about community development and has been involved in various initiatives, such as "Relaunch: Career Re-entry for Professional Women," which assists women returning to the workforce. She is also known for advocating for important issues and her efforts to make the chamber's programming more inclusive and relevant.

Her leadership style is characterized by a strong bias toward action, strategic clarity, and a commitment to driving transformative revenue growth and innovation. She is dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and is recognized for her ability to energize cross-functional teams to consistently outperform targets.  
Show more...
Entrepreneurship
Education,
Business,
Non-Profit,
How To
Episodes (20/32)
B Student Podcast
31. We Hit 1 Million Views in Under a Year — The Power of Podcasting & Partnership
In this special year-end episode of the B-Student Podcast, Betsy sits down with the producers behind the show, Carlos and Carolina Flores, founders of Hi Hello Labs, to unpack the power of podcasting, branding, and clear messaging in a noisy digital world.

2025 has been the “year of millions” for the B-Student Podcast. Together, the team crossed a huge milestone of 1 million YouTube views in under a year. In this conversation, they go behind the scenes on how the show launched, why they shifted from monthly to weekly distribution, and how data, AI, and intentional branding turned a simple idea into a high-impact mentorship platform for the next generation.

If you are a business leader, young professional, or creator who is curious about starting a podcast or sharpening your digital footprint, this episode will help you think differently about content. From teachability and honest feedback, to video-first podcasting, wardrobe and set decisions, and how to vet the right production partners, you will hear the real story of what it takes to build “hot content” that actually works.

In this episode, we cover:
  • The B-Student journey from idea to 1M YouTube views
  • Why podcasting is the new relationship-driven business tool
  • How Hi Hello Labs uses data and AI to guide content strategy
  • The importance of being teachable and open to feedback on camera
  • Building a digital footprint that truly reflects your expertise
  • Why authenticity and high production value can coexist
  • Practical first steps if you want to launch your own show
Time Stamps:

00:00 – Welcome + The Year of Millions
03:10 – Why Podcasting Works for Modern Leaders
06:25 – Introducing Hi Hello Labs
09:40 – Honest Feedback, Trust & Becoming Camera-Ready
13:05 – Authenticity, Generational Gaps & Mentorship
16:30 – Early Traction: From Monthly to Weekly Episodes
19:55 – Data, AI & Strategy Behind Podcast Growth
23:20 – Teachability, Humility & Hiring Experts
26:45 – Why Podcasting Is Replacing Traditional Media
30:10 – The Chamber’s New Digital Model
33:35 – Guest Impact, Charting Success & Global Reach
37:50 – How to Build Your Digital Footprint + Final Thoughts


Connect with Carlos and Carolina at:
Instagram: @carlosflores | @carolinadiplanflores | @hihellolabs

Website: www.hihellolabs.com

-----------------------------------
Listen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Like this video, subscribe, and comment your favorite London spot or what city has most transformed you.
-----------------------------------
Connect with Betsy Gardner:
Website: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/
--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 

Show more...
1 week ago
40 minutes

B Student Podcast
30. From Refugee to Congress: Stephanie Murphy on Belonging, Leadership, and America’s Future
In this episode of The B-Student Podcast, host Betsy Gardner, president of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, sits down with former U.S. Representative Stephanie Murphy for a powerful conversation on belonging, bipartisanship, and the future of American communities.


Stephanie shares her remarkable journey from escaping communist Vietnam as a six-month-old baby on a boat, to being rescued by the U.S. Navy, growing up in rural Virginia, working at the Department of Defense after 9/11, and eventually representing Central Florida in Congress. She reflects on how that immigrant experience shaped her deep sense of gratitude, service, and responsibility to make room for others at the table.

Together, Betsy and Stephanie dig into:
  • How social media and Big Tech are eroding our sense of connection
  • Why belonging is a public health and economic crisis, not just a feeling
  • What it really looks like to lead from the center and call “balls and strikes” in a hyper-partisan Washington
  • The skills that young people will need in an AI-enabled world, including emotional intelligence, curiosity, and real-world people skills
  • Why Stephanie chose to step away from Congress for her family, and why she is now running for Orange County Mayor to tackle affordability, housing, and thoughtful growth in Central Florida
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction + Why Belonging Matters  
02:45 – Stephanie Murphy’s immigrant journey from Vietnam  
05:30 – Being rescued by the U.S. Navy + early lessons in gratitude  
08:10 – Growing up in rural Virginia and navigating belonging  
10:55 – From Department of Defense to Congress  
13:40 – Bipartisanship, moderation, and leading from the center  
16:25 – Social media, polarization, and the belonging crisis  
19:10 – Emotional intelligence in an AI-enabled world  
21:55 – Parenting, identity, and choosing to leave Congress  
24:40 – The affordability crisis + Central Florida’s future  
27:25 – Rethinking housing, zoning, and community planning  
30:10 – Stephanie’s run for Orange County Mayor  
32:55 – Lightning round: books, emojis, and walk-up song  
35:20 – Final reflections + where to find Stephanie Murphy
 
Connect with Stephanie: 
Instagram: @murphyforocmayor
Website: murphyformayor.com

-----------------------------------

Listen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Like this video, subscribe, and comment your favorite London spot or what city has most transformed you.

Connect with Betsy Gardner:
Website: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/
--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 

Show more...
2 weeks ago
36 minutes

B Student Podcast
29. How to Build Trust in a World That Moves Fast — with Laura Walda
Loyalty might sound old-fashioned, but in an AI-enabled world, it’s quickly becoming one of the most powerful “unautomatable” skills you can have. In this episode of the B-Student Podcast, we sit down with attorney and community leader Laura Walda, shareholder at Lowndes, to explore what loyalty really looks like in law, leadership, friendship, and civic life.


Laura shares her journey from growing up in Indiana and working in state government to becoming a law partner, board chair, mom, and deeply engaged community advocate in Orlando. Together, we unpack how loyalty shows up in real client relationships, how to build a reputation you don’t want to lose, and why saying “I’ve got your back” still matters in a world obsessed with speed and short-term gains.

In this Episode you’ll learn:
  • How to practice loyalty in your career without becoming a doormat
  • Why reliability (showing up when you say you will) is a quiet superpower
  • Navigating mistakes, owning them, and building long-term trust
  • What it means to have someone’s back in business, law, and community work
  • How women in law and business are reshaping the “one seat at the table” mindset
  • Balancing work, family, and board service without losing yourself
  • Why the next generation views loyalty to employers differently — and how firms must adapt
  • The human qualities AI can’t replace: credibility, judgment, trust, and character
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction + Laura Walda’s accolades
02:18 – How Laura found her path to law
05:10 – Early career lessons from state government
07:42 – Choosing Lowndes + community-minded career values
10:25 – Balancing partnership, motherhood, and leadership
13:04 – Loyalty inside the attorney–client relationship
15:33 – When loyalty costs you
18:49 – The meaning of “I’ve got your back”
21:12 – Women in law, mentorship, and breaking old models
24:45 – Redefining loyalty in a new workforce era
27:58 – Listening, trust, and building a better workplace
30:40 – Why AI can’t replace credibility and judgment
33:02 – Everyday loyalty “hacks” for young professionals
35:15 – Serving your community with purpose
36:20 – Final reflections + closing

Connect with Laura:
Linkedin: @laura-walda
Website: lowndes-law.com

-----------------------------------
Listen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Like this video, subscribe, and comment your favorite London spot or what city has most transformed you.

-----------------------------------

Connect with Betsy Gardner:
Website: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
3 weeks ago
37 minutes

B Student Podcast
28. Dress Smarter, Lead Stronger: Fashion Tips from Stylist Fiona Rubie
What you wear is a message. In this B-Student Study Abroad episode, host Betsy Gardner sits down in London with Fiona Rubie — fashion stylist and brand consultant, former Fashion Director at BOAT International, and former Senior Fashion Editor at Harper’s Bazaar UK and InStyle UK. With credits spanning Eva Green, Linda Evangelista, and brand work for Graff, Monica Vinader, and Bergdorf Goodman, Fiona shows how style can build trust, credibility, and presence.

In this Episode you’ll learn:
• How to curate a professional presence that signals trust
• “Buy the outfit, not the separate” to end morning stress
• Capsule formulas that work in real life (tailoring, denim, knits, loafers)
• When to invest: coat, bag, belt, and shoes that elevate everything
• Mixing vintage finds with modern accessories for a unique look
• Using tailoring to read the room in high-stakes meetings
• Color and silhouette basics that flatter and feel like you
• Why dressing well changes your mindset and outcomes


Quick tips from Fiona:
  • Buy the full look the day you shop, so it’s ready to wear
  • Build capsules by color (navy, black, gray, neutrals)
  • Keep a go-to uniform: blazer + knit + great jeans + flats or heels
  • Blend high/low: Uniqlo tee, designer belt, polished bag
  • Create a simple mood board so you shop with intention
Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 – Intro & why presence builds trust
  • 04:12 – Meet Fiona Rubie: editor to stylist (Emily Blunt era)
  • 08:25 – From magazines to private clients: the 2020 pivot
  • 12:40 – Confidence as “armor”: tailoring, denim, knits, loafers
  • 16:55 – Rule #1: buy the outfit (end the land of lost skirts)
  • 21:10 – Capsules by color + high/low mixing (bag, belt, shoes)
  • 25:25 – Signaling trust in high-stakes rooms (men & women)
  • 29:40 – Case studies on seasons, events
  • 33:55 – Winter essentials: invest in coats, mood boards, vintage hacks
  • 38:10 – Joy > trackies: mindset, quick lifts, where to find Fiona
Connect with Fiona: 
Instagram: @fionarubie
Website: fionarubie.com

-----------------------------------
Listen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Like this video, subscribe, and comment your favorite London spot or what city has most transformed you.

-----------------------------------

Connect with Betsy Gardner:
Website: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
1 month ago
39 minutes

B Student Podcast
27. Juliet Mayhew’s Playbook for Influence, Community, and Courage
Give first. Get later. In this B-Student Study Abroad episode, host Betsy Gardner sits down in London with her longtime friend Juliet Mayhew — actress turned event and lifestyle imaginator, philanthropist, brand personality, and cast member of Real Housewives of London — to unpack the “give first” mindset that can transform your work, your network, and your life.


You’ll hear Juliet’s global story from Queensland to London, what fearless generosity looks like in action, and how simple encouragement can unlock extraordinary results on any team.

In this episode:
• The “give first, get later” approach to business and networking
• Turning encouragement into a leadership advantage
• Choosing community over isolation and scarcity
• Building a bigger life through curiosity and global citizenship
• Practical ways to serve wherever you are
• Faith over fear and taking the next brave step

Time Stamps:00:00 – Welcome to The B-Student Podcast
01:00 – Meet Juliet Mayhew: Real Housewives of London & global citizen
4:30 – Fearless beginnings and lessons from a life of service
08:45 – The moment she saved a life and the Scotland Yard award
11:40 – “Give first, get later”: generosity as a success strategy
15:20 – Encouragement over criticism: leadership that uplifts
19:10 – Love languages, marriage, and family values
23:00 – From acting to entrepreneurship and global living
28:30 – Finding belonging and faith in London life
33:50 – Final reflections: courage, community, and giving first


Connect with Juliet: 
Instagram: @juicymayhew

-----------------------------------
Listen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
Like this video, subscribe, and comment your favorite London spot or what city has most transformed you.

-----------------------------------

Connect with Betsy Gardner:
Website: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
1 month ago
36 minutes

B Student Podcast
26. 10 London Must-Dos + Life Lessons You’ll Actually Use
Welcome back to The B-Student Podcast with your host Betsy Gardner — where we explore the B-Side of people’s stories: the lessons, curiosities, and moments that shape who we become and how we show up in life, leadership, and business.


In this special Study Abroad episode, Betsy takes us to London, England, her former home and one of the cities that most transformed her personally and professionally. She shares her Top 10 things to do in London — from hidden museums and cozy theaters to parks, pubs, and perfect martinis — plus the deeper life lessons she learned living abroad.

You’ll hear how living in London taught her to:
  • Slow down and savor life’s beauty
  • Lead with curiosity instead of certainty
  • Build belonging in unfamiliar places
  • Find transformation through challenge and community
  • Embrace both/and thinking instead of either/or
If you love travel, culture, and thoughtful reflections on how our environments shape who we become, this episode will inspire you to see the world — and yourself — a little differently.

Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 – Welcome to The B-Student Podcast
  • 00:40 – Betsy’s London connection & why travel changes us
  • 02:10 – Top 10 must-do experiences in London
  • 03:20 – Favorite museums & theaters off the beaten path
  • 05:10 – Where to shop, sip, and savor in style
  • 06:55 – Slowing down to enjoy beauty and simplicity
  • 08:40 – How London transformed Betsy’s perspective
  • 10:30 – The power of curiosity and cultural connection
  • 12:15 – Living with intention: capsule wardrobes & savoring life
  • 14:20 – Finding belonging and community abroad
  • 16:10 – Holding space for both/and thinking
  • 18:00 – Lessons in resilience, gratitude, and friendship
  • 20:10 – Champagne on a Tuesday: a life philosophy
  • 21:40 – Final reflections & invitation to subscribe
Listen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
Like this video, subscribe, and comment your favorite London spot or what city has most transformed you.

-----------------------------------

Connect with Betsy Gardner:
Website: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
1 month ago
22 minutes

B Student Podcast
25. 16 Pieces Every Man Needs with Craig Delongy | The Men’s Capsule Wardrobe Guide
If you want to look sharp, scale a business, and lead with gut and grit, this one is for you. Betsy sits down with menswear icon Craig DeLongy, founder of John Craig Clothier with eight Florida locations, to unpack the B-side of his 30-year journey from a single Park Avenue shop to a statewide brand known for service, style, and community. Award-winning retailer behind John Craig Clothier in Winter Park, Naples, Jupiter, Ponte Vedra, Ocala, and more. Recognized by industry and local publications for excellence in men’s style and service.

In this episode:
  • How trusting your gut and showing up for your community can outpace any slide deck
  • Why customer experience is the real retail advantage
  • The two things that matter most in menswear: fit and fabric
  • A simple capsule for men: the 16-ish pieces that cover work, travel, and weekends
  • Shoes, belts, shirting, and sweaters that pull it all together
  • Pocket squares, dress sneakers, and when to skip the trends
Mentions and takeaways
  • Navy blazer as the anchor piece
  • Dark denim and five-pocket trousers in versatile colors
  • Dress shirts that move with you
  • Loafers and lace-ups that work across dress codes
  • Community involvement as a growth strategy
Time Stamps:
00:00 - Intro and who is Craig DeLongy
04:39 - Launching John Craig on Park Ave (1996)
09:18 - First buys in NYC and early lessons
13:57 - Fit and fabric matter most
18:36 - Jackets, vents, and trouser fit today
23:15 - The 16-piece capsule wardrobe basics
27:54 - Shirts, polos, and belt essentials
32:33 - Sweaters, layers, and the hoodie debate
37:12 - Shoes that cover every dress code + pocket squares
41:51 - Trust your gut, community, team, and wrap-up

If you enjoyed this conversation, like, subscribe, and share. Drop a comment with your must-have wardrobe piece or a question for Craig and Betsy.

Listen on your favorite podcast app and follow the show for more conversations that reveal the B-side of business, leadership, and life.


Connect with Craig: 
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/JohnCraigClothier/
Website: https://www.johncraigclothier.com/

Listen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
2 months ago
46 minutes

B Student Podcast
24. The Frequency of Excellence: How to Build Habits That Last | Scott Millson
How you do anything is how you do everything. In this B Student Podcast episode, host Betsy Gardner sits down with Scott Millson — U.S. Navy veteran, COO, entrepreneur, mentor and author of "The Frequency of Excellence" — to unpack the habits and mindsets that turn small details into big outcomes.

From folding uniforms in boot camp to leading high-performing teams, Scott shares practical ways to “tune in” to excellence and build a meaningful second curve in life and work.

In this episode you’ll learn:
  • What the Navy taught Scott about culture, discipline, and standards
  • “How you do anything…” — why details signal trust and save lives (and careers)
  • Scott’s B5 framework to tune into excellence: be intentional, be present, be curious (and more) How to build a personal board of directors for honest feedback and growth
  • Problem knowledge > product knowledge: a reframe for sales and influence
  • Crafting your second curve (inspired by Arthur Brooks’ From Strength to Strength)
  • Cutting through distraction to show up with attention, humanity, and consistency
Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 – Intro & who is Scott Millson
  • 03:50 – Navy origin story: boot camp, culture, dress whites
  • 07:40 – “How you do anything…”: the underwear-folding lesson
  • 11:20 – Bringing Navy standards into business, teams & family
  • 15:10 – Writing the book: why The Frequency of Excellence
  • 19:00 – Tuning in: the B5 framework (be intentional, present, curious…)
  • 22:50 – Be present in a distracted world: improv mindset & attention
  • 26:40 – Sales reframe: problem knowledge vs. product knowledge
  • 30:30 – The second curve: resume vs eulogy virtues (Arthur Brooks)
  • 34:20 – Key takeaways, where to find Scott and closing
Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.


Connect with Scott: 
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/scott-millson
Website: scottmillson.com

Connect with Betsy Gardner:
Website: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
2 months ago
38 minutes

B Student Podcast
23. Managing Up 101: Gen Z & Gen X Secrets to Fast-Track Trust
Authentic… or “plastic fantastic”? In this B-Student Podcast episode, Betsy sits down with CMO (and resident Gen Z/Millennial lens) Addison Cursey to unpack how to show up at work—without tanking your credibility. From email punctuation and dress codes to “managing up,” building trust, and navigating AI, this is a practical guide for early-career pros and the managers who lead them.

What you’ll learn:
  • Authenticity vs. professionalism: where the line actually is
  • The “costume party” problem of modern workplace culture
  • Email tone, exclamation points, and the “gravitas gap”
  • Dress codes (why pajamas/crop tops send the wrong signal)
  • Managing up: reading your boss’s calendar, anticipating needs
  • Fast-tracking trust: judgment, reliability, and asking for context
  • Cross-generational collab: Gen Z × Gen X strengths, staying open
  • Using AI as leverage (not a crutch)
Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 — Welcome and setup
  • 02:20 — Orlando Women’s Conference shoutout and theme of authenticity
  • 05:05 — Five generations at work and the AI wrinkle
  • 07:40 — Authentic vs “plastic fantastic”
  • 10:15 — Dress code reality check: pajamas and crop tops
  • 12:40 — Email tone and the exclamation point rule
  • 15:10 — How Addy built trust fast and moved up
  • 17:35 — “Be yourself” at work and the costume party metaphor
  • 20:05 — First two weeks: listen before you speak
  • 22:25 — Managing up 101
  • 24:40 — Know your boss’s calendar and the “Betsy buffer”
  • 27:05 — Coaching vs over-accommodating the team
  • 29:20 — Tech fluency across generations
  • 31:10 — Cross-gen relationships that build trust
  • 33:00 — Key takeaways and your next steps
  • 34:30 — Closing and call for questions


Have a question about cross-gen teamwork or the unwritten rules of work? Drop it in the comments and we might cover it next.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Addison Cursey:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/addison-cursey-mba-353344151/
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
2 months ago
35 minutes

B Student Podcast
22. A Jenna’s Book Club Pick: Happy Wife Authors Reveal Winter Park’s Reaction
Betsy sits down with Meredith Lavender and Kendall Shores, authors of the bestselling Winter Park–set thriller The Happy Wife. We dig into what animates their story and how those same skills make you better at business and with AI: curiosity, collaboration, belonging, and choosing creativity over fear.

We talk about:
  • Turning a sense of place into a page-turner
  • Writing partners, failure tolerance, and “fun over perfect”
  • Curiosity as a superpower for better AI prompts
  • Belonging, imposter feelings, and building welcoming communities
  • Strong female leads, agency, and making choices you can stand on
  • Winter Park’s layers — beyond the ultra-wealthy stereotype
  • A tease of Book 2 in the Happy Wife world
About the book: A Read with Jenna Pick on the TODAY show, The Happy Wife follows Nora, a 28-year-old navigating love, mystery, and identity in Winter Park. No spoilers here — just why it resonates and what it can teach us about life and leadership.

If you’re a builder, leader, or lifelong learner, you’ll leave with practical “curiosity hacks,” belonging cues you can use at work and events, and a reframed view of AI as a tool that amplifies human creativity.

TIME STAMPS
  • 00:00 Welcome and episode setup
  • 01:40 The Happy Wife elevator pitch
  • 04:10 How the authors met and the scavenger hunt story
  • 06:45 Kendall’s writing journey and turning 40
  • 09:05 Why Winter Park and building a sense of place
  • 12:00 Craft cheat codes for writing a place you haven’t been
  • 14:10 Business lens on curiosity and AI prompts
  • 16:40 Partnership rules: fun, fail fast, not precious
  • 19:30 Handling creative disagreements by following passion
  • 21:50 AI in Hollywood and why the human touch matters
  • 24:00 Voice and dialogue choices; empathizing with Nora
  • 27:10 Belonging in Winter Park and wealth dynamics
  • 29:40 Belonging tips: say hello, the Yeti trick, self-belonging\
  • 31:50 Reader reactions and Winter Park’s response
  • 34:10 Key themes and takeaways: choice, agency, growth
  • 36:10 Sequel tease and closing thanks
Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with this week's guests Meredith Lavender and Kendall Shores at: https://www.instagram.com/meredithandkendall/?hl=en


Find the book The Happy Wife at:  https://www.meredithandkendall.com/

Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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2 months ago
38 minutes

B Student Podcast
21. Bourbon & Business Success with Paul Twyford, Winter Park Distilling Co.
What does it really take to build something from nothing? In this episode, Betsy sits down with entrepreneur and craft distiller Paul Twyford, co-founder of Winter Park Distilling Company, to unpack the unglamorous, real-world path from door-to-door dry cleaning to award-winning bourbon.

Paul shares the cheat codes he wishes he had at 28: start with the problem, say yes more often, build relationships that outlast trends, and develop the grit to keep knocking after nine doors slam in your face. We also nerd out on bourbon basics, from Florida corn and mash bills to barrels, char levels, and why “what’s in the bottle” beats the marketing machine.

In this episode we talk about:
  • Problem-first entrepreneurship and why convenience wins
  • Rejection tolerance, resilience, and daily decision making
  • Launching a pickup-and-delivery service with no money and lots of hustle
  • The leap into craft spirits and navigating heavy regulation
  • Vodka vs. bourbon vs. gin vs. tequila in today’s market
  • Mash bills, Florida corn, char levels, and aging decisions that shape great bourbon
  • Community as strategy and why giving first compounds over time
  • How to show up as a peer in rooms that might underestimate you
Here are some Key Memorable takeaways:
  • Start with the customer’s problem, not your resume
  • Say yes early and often, then refine
  • Relationships are the real ROI
  • You do not need to be an expert to begin
  • Quality in the bottle beats hype
If you are a builder, creator, or leader who wants the honest path to progress, this one will refill your grit tank.

TIME STAMPS:
  • 00:00 – Intro & meet Paul Twyford
  • 03:00 – First business: dry cleaning hustle
  • 07:15 – Facing rejection & building grit
  • 11:20 – Imperfect action and new ventures
  • 15:40 – Relationships over ROI in business
  • 20:25 – Giving back & playing the long game
  • 25:10 – Launching Winter Park Distilling Company
  • 30:05 – Bourbon beginnings & early awards
  • 34:40 – Branding, barrels & Florida corn
  • 38:55 – Market trends: bourbon, gin, tequila
  • 42:00 – Paul’s true “B-side” & closing takeaways
Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Paul Twyford:  https://wpdistilling.com/


Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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2 months ago
43 minutes

B Student Podcast
20. The Truth About Zoning, Housing & Exclusion in America | Yoni Appelbaum of The Atlantic Explains
In this special live-recorded episode of the B-Student Podcast, we welcome Dr. Yoni Appelbaum—historian, Harvard lecturer, Deputy Executive Editor at The Atlantic, and author of Stuck: How the Privileged and the Property Broke the Engine of American Opportunity.


Hosted at Hi Hello Labs with a live studio audience, this conversation unpacks one of the most pressing issues of our time: housing as the battleground of belonging. From the origins of zoning laws to the unintended consequences of preservation, Dr. Appelbaum explores how history holds the receipts for today’s housing crisis—and how we can apply historical perspective to build stronger, more inclusive communities.

We also discuss:
  • Why Chambers of Commerce are uniquely positioned to lead on belonging
  • The decline of American mobility and its impact on opportunity
  • The history of zoning and its ties to exclusionary practices
  • Lessons from Charleston and Cambridge on preservation vs. progress
  • Practical ways communities can rethink housing and inclusion today
This episode challenges us to see beyond buildings and focus on the people and opportunities they enable.

Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 – Welcome & Live Audience at Hi Hello Labs
  • 03:45 – Introducing Dr. Yoni Appelbaum & Stuck
  • 07:20 – Why Housing is the Battleground of Belonging
  • 11:05 – The Decline of American Mobility
  • 15:30 – How History “Saves the Receipts”
  • 19:10 – The Origins of Zoning & Exclusionary Practices
  • 23:50 – Case Study: Modesto & the First Zoning Law
  • 28:15 – Preservation vs. Progress: Charleston’s Cautionary Tale
  • 32:40 – Winter Park, Affluence, and the Fear of Change
  • 37:00 – NIMBY vs. Inclusive Communities
  • 41:15 – What Housing Really Enables: People, Not Buildings
  • 45:50 – Policy Lessons: Abundance, Simplicity, and Clarity
  • 49:25 – Final Takeaways & Solutions Moving Forward
  • 52:10 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find Dr. Appelbaum
Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Dr. Yoni Appelbaum:  https://x.com/yappelbaum?lang=en


Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

--------------------------------
Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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3 months ago
53 minutes

B Student Podcast
19. Why Gen Z Doesn’t Want Leadership Roles and What That Means for You
In this episode of B-Student Podcast, Betsy sits down again with Addison, Chief Marketing Officer at the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, to continue a candid, funny, and practical conversation on navigating Gen X–Gen Z dynamics at work.

We talk about:
  • Why humor (yes, even the “how do I open this PDF?” moment) can bridge generations without belittling anyone
  • The real “cheat codes” early-career pros can use to become indispensable — technical competency, reliability, and good judgment
  • The ego reset from college to the workplace and how to accelerate growth by listening first
  • Making promotions make sense in the AI era — not just managing more people, but owning systems, tools, and outcomes
  • Flexible compensation beyond salary: time, trust, and culture that actually retain talent
  • Betsy’s 3C framework (Control, Content, Compensation) for choosing roles and building teams
  • Why feedback is a gift, how to ask for it, and how leaders can model curiosity
If you’re a leader trying to engage Gen Z, or a Gen Z pro building momentum without burning out, this one’s for you.

Time Stamps:
  • 0:00 – Welcome back & why this convo matters
  • 2:15 – The infamous “PDF” joke: humor as a generational bridge
  • 5:40 – The Gen Z “tech expert by default” expectation
  • 9:05 – Becoming indispensable: showing value early in your career
  • 12:30 – Ego reset: from college senior to workplace freshman
  • 16:10 – Curiosity as a superpower in the AI era
  • 19:45 – Promotions beyond people management: new ways to recognize talent
  • 23:20 – Flexible compensation & why Gen Z values time over money
  • 26:40 – Building trust before asking for flexibility (the Pilates example)
  • 30:00 – Feedback as a gift: how to receive and use it
  • 33:15 – The 3C framework: Control, Content, Compensation
  • 36:00 – Final takeaways & closing
Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Addison Cursey:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/addison-cursey-mba-353344151/
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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3 months ago
36 minutes

B Student Podcast
18. Gen Z in Congress: Rep. Maxwell Frost on Resilience, Hustle & Leadership
Welcome back to the B-Student Podcast! 

Today, Betsy sits down with Congressman Maxwell Frost, the youngest member ever elected to the United States House of Representatives, to talk about the B-side of his record. This episode isn’t about politics—it’s about resilience, hustle, and the journey behind the headlines.

From driving Uber during his campaign, working shifts at Olive Garden, and launching grassroots movements at just 15 years old, to navigating intergenerational leadership in Washington, Congressman Frost opens up about the challenges, lessons, and surprising moments that shaped his path to Congress.

We talk about:
  • Lessons from being underestimated and turning setbacks into growth
  • How small-dollar donors and grassroots support powered his campaign
  • The entrepreneurial parallels between running for office and building a business
  • Building credibility across generations in leadership
  • A behind-the-scenes story of being photographed by Annie Leibovitz for Vogue
This episode is packed with insights on leadership, perseverance, and staying grounded while pursuing big dreams. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, student, or just curious about the human side of leadership, you’ll walk away inspired.

Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 Welcome & why “B-Student” (the B-side of your story)
  • 02:15 Youngest in modern history — why Rep. Frost ran & early struggles
  • 06:30 Campaign grind: Uber, Olive Garden, and grassroots hustle
  • 10:50 Call to action at 15: Sandy Hook → organizing
  • 15:20 Fundraising hack & power of small-dollar donors
  • 20:05 Entrepreneur roots: garage sales to concession stand CEO
  • 25:00 From winning to Washington: AI, leadership & Gen Z’s seat at the table
  • 31:40 Building respect across generations in Congress
  • 37:00 Pelosi’s advice & creating the Office of Gun Violence Prevention
  • 41:50 Annie Leibovitz photoshoot & Teen Vogue cover
  • 46:00 What gives Maxwell hope & closing thoughts

Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Rep. Maxwell Frost:  https://frost.house.gov/
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 


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3 months ago
49 minutes

B Student Podcast
17. Personal Branding Made Simple: Phil Pallen on Authenticity, AI & Standing Out Online
In this episode of the B-Student Podcast, host Betsy Gardner sits down with world-renowned brand strategist and content creator Phil Pallen to uncover the B-side of branding, AI, and… watches.

Phil has worked with over 400 clients across 30+ countries, is a trusted advisor for Adobe, and helps entrepreneurs, creators, and small businesses show up consistently both online and offline. 

In this candid conversation, you’ll learn:
  • What a personal brand really is—and why it matters more than ever
  • How to show up online with authenticity (even when it feels scary)
  • Why imperfection is powerful for building trust on social media
  • Actionable steps to run your own personal brand audit
  • How AI is transforming branding (and Phil’s top tips for small business)
  • Why a luxury watch—or any meaningful item—can be the ultimate brand statement
Plus, we left in the bloopers, laughter, and real-life moments that remind us all that building a brand is about being human first.

If you’ve ever wondered how to level up your personal brand, embrace authenticity, or navigate branding in an AI-driven world, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.

Watch now to learn how to build a brand that is consistent, credible, and uniquely YOU.

Time Stamps:
  • 0:00 – Welcome to the B-Student Podcast with Phil Pallen
  • 2:15 – What is a personal brand (really)?
  • 5:42 – Showing up online vs. in real life
  • 9:10 – The power of authenticity & imperfection on social media
  • 12:35 – Betsy’s branding breakthrough (and tears on Zoom)
  • 15:50 – Building consistency between your real self & online presence
  • 19:20 – Branding as a marathon: small steps that matter
  • 22:05 – Why leaders must show up as humans, not robots
  • 25:30 – The COVID post that changed Betsy’s brand strategy
  • 28:15 – Practical tips for starting your own personal brand audit
  • 31:40 – The basics of brand orthodoxy (and why teens already have a brand)
  • 35:00 – Branding lessons from watches: Cartier, Swatch, and Rolex
  • 39:05 – AI, YouTube strategy & monetization insights from Phil
  • 42:10 – Final takeaways on branding, authenticity & enjoying the process
  • 44:00 – Closing thoughts + where to follow Phil Pallen
Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Phil Pallen:  https://www.instagram.com/philpallen/?hl=en
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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3 months ago
44 minutes

B Student Podcast
16. Woman of Influence 2025: Karen Moreno on Curiosity, Connection & Leadership
In this powerful episode of the B-Student Podcast, host Betsy sits down with Karen Moreno, owner of The Bar Method Winter Park and recipient of the Woman of Influence 2025 award. Karen’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and community — and it’s packed with lessons every leader and entrepreneur can apply.

From starting out as a teacher and full-time mom, to relaunching her career as a business owner, Karen proves that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. She shares how a chance encounter in Costa Rica led her to the Bar Method, how she turned at-home workouts into a thriving fitness studio, and why community has always been the secret ingredient in her success.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
  • Why curiosity is the most underrated networking tool for building authentic relationships
  • How choosing the right partner in life can multiply your business success
  • The strategies Karen used to keep her business alive during the pandemic and a $54M retail district renovation
  • Why community and connection can “Teflon coat” your business against unexpected challenges
  • How to approach resilience, reinvention, and leadership with humility and heart

Karen’s journey is proof that success isn’t just about strategy — it’s about people, values, and the communities we build around us.

If you’re a business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone who wants to be inspired by a story of courage and determination, this episode will give you practical takeaways and renewed motivation.

Watch now to discover the B-side of Karen Moreno’s story and how you can apply her wisdom to your own life and business.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations with leaders, innovators, and change-makers who are shaping the future of business and community.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Karen Moreno:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-moreno-59317735/
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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4 months ago
41 minutes

B Student Podcast
15. Building a Real Estate Brand Through Community & Social Media with Trevor Brown
How do you turn an online community into real business?

In this episode of the B-Student Podcast, host Betsy Gardner sits down with Trevor Brown, a dynamic realtor with Fannie Hillman and Associates in Winter Park, Florida. Trevor shares how he went from an advertising career to disrupting the real estate game by building community, showing up consistently on social media, and converting connections into clients.

From the “cringe” of his very first video to building a following of over 35,000, Trevor reveals the strategies that helped him stand out in one of Central Florida’s most competitive real estate markets. They talk about belonging, resilience, and how authenticity is the real differentiator in business today.

If you’ve ever wondered how to start creating content, keep going when it feels uncomfortable, and eventually turn that presence into leads and revenue, this episode is packed with practical insights you won’t want to miss.

Topics covered:
  • How Trevor transitioned from advertising to real estate
  • The power of starting, even when it feels uncomfortable
  • Why building community creates long-term clients
  • Using social media to attract the right leads
  • What it means to truly belong in business and life
Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Trevor Brown:  https://www.instagram.com/trevorbrown407
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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4 months ago
33 minutes

B Student Podcast
14. Gen Z vs Gen X: Real Talk on Leadership, Respect & Communication
What happens when a Gen X CEO and a Gen Z CMO join forces to build something big? 

In this episode of B Student Podcast, host Betsy Gardner sits down with her collaborator and Chief Marketing Officer, Addison Cursey, for a real conversation on navigating multigenerational leadership in the modern workplace.
From decoding communication differences to wardrobe hacks that build credibility, this episode is packed with funny, vulnerable, and incredibly practical insight into how professionals from different generations can better understand, respect, and elevate each other.

Topics include:
  • How to read the room across generations
  • Why “dressing old” might help your career
  • What Gen Z and Boomers misunderstand about each other
  • Practical tips for showing up with gravitas
  • The power of wonder, curiosity, and failing together
Whether you're 24 or 54, this episode will shift the way you think about collaboration, leadership, and communication in a rapidly evolving work environment.Drop your favorite takeaway in the comments—and let us know how you’re bridging the generational gap at work.

Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 – Welcome + Meet Addison Cursey
  • 01:42 – Why Navigating Generations Matters Now
  • 03:27 – Gen Z vs Gen X: How We Communicate Differently
  • 06:10 – A Website Training Gone Wrong (and Right)
  • 08:55 – Evergreen Resources vs Real-Time Support
  • 11:33 – Wonder, Curiosity & Learning How to Ask Better
  • 14:25 – Becoming “Translators” Across Generations
  • 16:02 – How HBO’s Hacks Mirrors Our Working Relationship
  • 18:37 – Managing Up (Starting with Mom!)
  • 21:08 – Dressing the Part: “Dress Older” Strategy Explained
  • 23:46 – Cheat Code: Ask What to Wear
  • 26:09 – Stakeholder Perception & the Power of Clothing
  • 28:33 – The New Professional: Stylish, Polished & Context-Aware
  • 30:48 – Showing Up with Gravitas Without Losing Approachability
  • 33:24 – Pantyhose, Politics, and the Panopticon
  • 36:01 – Dressing Your Calendar & Why Consistency Matters
  • 38:20 – Leadership Without a Title: Earning Trust Early
  • 40:12 – Practical Tips to Build Trust Across Generations
  • 41:30 – Closing Thoughts & What’s Coming Next
Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Addison Cursey:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/addison-cursey-mba-353344151/
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
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4 months ago
42 minutes

B Student Podcast
13. Leadership Without Ego: A Conversation with Bob Jimenez
In this episode of The B-Student Podcast, host Betsy Gardner sits down with the incomparable Bob Jimenez, founder and gallerist of Solana Fine Art Gallery and a former executive with The Walt Disney Company, Cox Enterprises, and AdventHealth.

Together, they explore the power of authenticity and curiosity as foundational traits for impactful leadership, crisis communication, and purpose-driven networking. Bob shares insights from his decades of experience in corporate affairs, including actionable strategies for showing up authentically in times of crisis, managing reputation with integrity, and building coalitions that transcend organizations.

They also dive into Bob’s inspiring pivot from corporate leadership to creative entrepreneurship — and why he believes fine art can serve as a convener of culture, connection, and community in Central Florida.

Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, communicator, or creative, this conversation is full of real-world wisdom, tactical tools, and inspiring reminders about how to lead with heart and show up with purpose.

Visit Solana Fine Art Gallery in Winter Park to experience the space Bob has so thoughtfully built — a masterclass in intentionality, hospitality, and vision.

Time Stamps
  • 00:00 Welcome + Meet Bob Jimenez
  • 03:02 What Authentic Communication Really Means
  • 07:45 The “Crisis Rubric” for Leadership
  • 14:50 Building Coalitions Outside Your Organization
  • 20:02 Combating Executive Loneliness
  • 25:10 Lessons from Disney, Cox & Corporate America
  • 32:42 Small Business Reputation Management Tips
  • 39:20 Launching Solana Fine Art Gallery
  • 44:05 Art, Brand, and the Business of Creative Expression
  • 46:12 Final Thoughts from Bob
Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.


Connect with Bob Jimenez: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-jimenez-5780ab7/
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 

Show more...
4 months ago
48 minutes

B Student Podcast
12. Why Most Creatives Fail in Business (And How to Avoid It) | Gary Hughes Interview
Award-winning photographer, speaker, and author Gary Hughes joins Betsy Gardner for a deep dive into what it really takes to build a sustainable creative business without losing your soul. From life on the road as a touring musician to leading a nationally recognized photography studio, Gary shares lessons on empathy, resets, not being “too precious,” and the hard truths creatives need to hear.

Together, they explore:
  • Why empathy is the most underrated business tool
  • How to protect your creativity by learning to run a business
  • The “hobby paradox” and how passion can become a prison
  • What it means to lead with thoughtful ambition
  • The importance of a personal reset (at any stage of your career)
Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, marketer, or creative leader—this episode is packed with perspective-shifting insights and candid moments that will inspire you to show up with more curiosity, courage, and clarity.

Watch now and drop a comment with the one word that describes your B-side.

Time Stamps:
  • 00:00 – Welcome & Meet Gary Hughes
  • 02:01 – From Roadie Dreams to Corporate Photographer
  • 04:37 – Empathy, Listening, and Why Creatives Burn Out
  • 07:19 – The “Hobby Paradox”: Turning Passion into a Business
  • 10:04 – Why You Shouldn’t Be Too Precious with Your Art
  • 12:50 – Resetting After Failure & Reframing Success]
  • 15:41 – Parenting, Encouragement, and Saying Yes to Risk
  • 18:18 – From Sociology Degree to Storytelling Through Images
  • 21:00 – The Hidden Emotional Work Behind Great Photography
  • 24:03 – What AI Can’t Replace: The Human Element
  • 26:41 – Creating Safe, Collaborative Client Experiences
  • 29:17 – Building Brand Trust Through Consistency
  • 32:00 – Serving Before Shining: Business Advice for Creatives
  • 34:42 – Why Liberal Arts Majors Thrive in a Creative Economy
  • 37:08 – Generational Gaps, Hiring Concerns & Advice for Gen Z
  • 39:16 – Gary’s B-Side Word: Thoughtful Ambition
  • 41:03 – Final Takeaways & Where to Find Gary Hughes
Subscribe, rate, and share the B Student Podcast—because the B side of your story might just be the best part.

Connect with Gary Hughes: https://hughesfioretti.com/ 
Connect with Betsy Gardner: https://www.betsygardner.com/ 

Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/

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Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ 
Show more...
5 months ago
42 minutes

B Student Podcast
The B Student Podcast is hosted by Betsy Gardner, the President and CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce. The podcast focuses on exploring the "B side" of influential and dynamic professionals.

Just like the B-side of a record, where deeper, more personal passions often live, this podcast highlights the less publicized yet deeply impactful aspects of these individuals' work and lives. Betsy brings her extensive experience as a CEO, speaker, consultant, and executive coach to dive into conversations with experts from diverse fields.

The goal is to provide listeners with actionable insights, strategies, and inspiration to help them succeed and create meaningful impact in their own careers and communities. Each episode introduces listeners to unique perspectives and lessons on topics like leadership, emotional intelligence, community building, and personal growth—empowering the audience to "be" more successful and impactful in their own lives.

About the host:
Betsy Gardner is a dynamic leader with a diverse professional background. Since January 2017, she has served as the President and CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, where she has been instrumental in modernizing the organization and implementing innovative programs to support local businesses and the community. 

Under her leadership, the chamber has received national recognition, including the North American Chamber Innovation Grand Prize, surpassing larger chambers such as Greater Boston and Vancouver.  Before her tenure at the chamber, Gardner co-founded Longwave Apparel Ltd. in London, a company specializing in luxury UV-protective swimwear. She also served as the Director of Business Development for Mentore Consulting Ltd., focusing on mentoring programs for women in leadership roles. 

A native of Winter Park, Florida, Gardner holds a degree in History from the University of Florida, where she was recognized for her leadership and academic achievements. She is passionate about community development and has been involved in various initiatives, such as "Relaunch: Career Re-entry for Professional Women," which assists women returning to the workforce. She is also known for advocating for important issues and her efforts to make the chamber's programming more inclusive and relevant.

Her leadership style is characterized by a strong bias toward action, strategic clarity, and a commitment to driving transformative revenue growth and innovation. She is dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and is recognized for her ability to energize cross-functional teams to consistently outperform targets.