The Money Market Podcast

The wait is over, folks. Corey Neil, the Bank of Tampa's President and CEO and one of the "Money" Market Podcast's most requested guests, joins host Owen LaFave to talk about the kind of leadership that puts people first. A true servant leader, Corey shares how a single word – impact – has guided his rise from young banker to CEO, shaping a culture rooted in relationships, authenticity, and doing what's right over what's easy. From the lessons learned under the leadership of Jerry Divers and Bill West to the challenge of keeping a privately owned bank thriving in a world of mergers and mega-institutions, Corey reveals what makes The Bank of Tampa a true unicorn in modern banking. Packed with humor, heart, and real talk on culture, community, and purpose-driven leadership, this episode shows why success isn't about size – it's about substance.     WATCH NEXT: FROM BOARDROOM TO BULLS COUNTRY: HOW SAVILL'S MIKE GRIFFIN IS FUELING TAMPA'S RISE https://youtu.be/-Cktu16roqc   SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ     Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

What happens when passion meets purpose in Tampa Bay? On this episode of "Money" Market, Owen sits down with Mike Griffin, Vice Chair of the USF Board of Trustees and Co-Head of Florida for Savills, to talk about the momentum transforming the region. From shaping USF's $400 million on-campus stadium to advising major companies on growth strategies, Mike's influence reaches from the boardroom to the community tailgate. He shares how collaboration between business and education is fueling Tampa's evolution into a national player. Owen and Mike dig into how real estate, leadership, and civic engagement all work together to drive progress. They explore what makes Tampa's market more resilient than most and how the city's energy keeps attracting talent and investment. With insights on everything from flexible office space to long-term growth, Mike reveals the mindset behind smart development and sustainable success. It's an inside look at how Bulls spirit and business savvy are shaping Tampa's future.   WATCH NEXT: TAKING THE FALL: THE LIFE OF A STUNT PRO W/ STUNT COORDINATOR AND ENTREPRENEUR KEVIN REGO https://youtu.be/5OXGfOfJkiI SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ   Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC   Check out Savills: https://www.savills.us

Ever wonder what it's like to crash through windows, set yourself on fire, and call it a career move? Meet Kevin Rego, founder of K75 Stunt Academy in Clearwater, where Tampa Bay locals learn to fall, fly, and fight like Hollywood pros – safely, of course. Kevin is also the owner of K2 Second Unit Stunts, an action production team, and he rolls in with host Owen LaFave on the "Money" Market Podcast. From being tased twice in one night to performing stunts in over 50 countries, this energetic episode recounts Kevin's fearless and hilarious story of how he became the man to call for stunt work. He shares how he went from trapeze artist to international stunt performer, and now, mentor to the next generation of stunt pros. Discover what it really takes to make movie magic without faking it 'til you break it. Dive into the controlled chaos of the stunt world, how AI is changing the game, and why not everyone has what it takes to take the fall. Whether you're into adrenaline, ambition, or just a great story, this episode's got a little bit of everything. Buckle up. This one hits hard but lands soft.   WATCH NEXT: MORE THAN A GAME: INSIDE RELIAQUEST BOWL W/DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS BLAKE GUTHRIE https://youtu.be/fgGwoipF0PM SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ   Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC   Check out K75 Stunt Academy: https://www.k75stuntacademy.com

Grab your helmet and your headphones because this week the "Money" Market Podcast is kicking things off with bowl season energy! Host Owen LaFave sits down with Blake Guthrie, Director of Community Partnerships for the ReliaQuest Bowl held at Raymond James Stadium. They deep dive into how this iconic Tampa Bay tradition scores big for our local economy – from team selections and TV deals to community givebacks totaling over $4.5 million. Blake shares stories from two decades in sports management, insights on the future of college football, and how Tampa became the must-visit destination for Big Ten and SEC fans alike. It's a conversation of local pride, gameday grit, and the business plays that make the bowl more than just a game. Whether you're a sports fanatic or just love seeing Tampa win, this episode is a slam dunk – or rather touchdown – for your playlist.   WATCH NEXT: REWRITING THE RULES OF HEALTH – CEREBRAL CHIROPRACTIC CENTER'S DR. CHRIS ON HEALING A CITY https://youtu.be/jWVmP9KrcGU SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ   Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC Visit the ReliaQuest Bowl: https://www.reliaquestbowl.com

What if we've been treating healthcare all wrong? Dr. Chris Slininger, owner of Cerebral Chiropractic Center of Tampa Bay, joins Owen on the "Money" Market Podcast to discuss what it looks like to turn an entire system on its head. He's not just focused on managing pain but on a mission to revolutionize the baseline health of an entire city. From calling out quick fixes to how subsidies can fuel bad medicine, Dr. Chris challenges both patients and providers to think deeper about what true healing means. He digs into everything from mental health and accountability to collaboration with St. Pete's medical community. His bold vision is rooted in education, personal ownership, and reimagining what's possible when we fix health at its source – not just cover the symptoms.   WATCH NEXT: HOW TO BECOME ST. PETE W/ ST. PETE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP. PRESIDENT & CEO MIKE SWESEY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btL6cadvyeE SUBSCRIBE: www.youtube.com/@TheMoneyMarketPodcast   Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC Visit the Cerebral Chiroptractic Center: https://www.cerebralchiropractic.com

St. Petersburg is on fire and not just with construction cranes on every corner. We're back in this Bay boomtown on "Money" Market with host Owen LaFave as he sits down with Mike Swesey, President & CEO of St. Pete Economic Development Corporation, to talk about why businesses are flocking to this coastal city. With more than 30 years of experience driving growth, Mike shares how the EDC is putting St. Pete on the map as a destination for headquarters relocations, tech firms, and financial services companies. From high-profile business moves to a growing FinTech hub, get the inside scoop on how St. Pete is winning projects that bring both investment and jobs.  But it's not all sunshine and sailboats – Mike digs into challenges like office space, affordable housing, and transportation, while highlighting how the city is taking action to stay ahead. Tune in to hear how St. Pete is unique compared to Tampa and other coastal competitors: a walkable downtown, vibrant lifestyle, zero personal income tax, and a culture that blends business-friendly with laid-back charm. If you've ever wondered why national companies are packing their bags for Pinellas County, this conversation will tell you why.    WATCH NEXT: WHY CEOS SHOULD TRAIN LIKE QUATERBACKS W/ EXOS DIRECTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY JIM GODIN https://youtu.be/M8PQkq5yu2s SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ   Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

What if the key to thriving in business, health, and life wasn't working harder but training smarter? In today's episode of the "Money" Market Podcast, Owen LaFave and Jim Godin of EXOS uncover how the same science used to train NFL stars can transform the way executives, parents, and professionals perform every day. From hydration hacks to mental resilience, recovery strategies to avoiding burnout, Jim shares the playbook for unlocking peak performance. He also highlights how EXOS collaborates with the Eagle Fund, a program dedicated to rehabilitating and training special operations forces and first responders, helping America's toughest recover, rebuild, and return stronger. Whether you're leading a company, raising a family, serving your country, or chasing personal goals, this episode will change how you think about your body, your mindset, and your potential.    WATCH NEXT: POURED TO PERFECTION: THE CANDLE POUR STORY FOUNDERS DENNIS & MISTY AKERS https://youtu.be/ewGGiWB1fyo SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ   Follow The ""Money"" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC   Visit Team Exos: https://www.teamexos.com

What if your business could bottle memories? That's exactly what Dennis and Misty Akers set out to do when they launched The Candle Pour, Tampa's first pour-your-own candle bar. In this lively episode of "Money" Market, host Owen LaFave dives into how the husband-and-wife duo turned their leap from corporate life into a thriving, "Amazon-proof" experience that's as much about connection as it is about candles. From juggling two kids at home to building a staff culture that wows customers, the Akers share the real highs and lows of entrepreneurship. They unpack how scent branding is reshaping businesses, why experiential retail is booming, and the little details that make their shop unforgettable. With plenty of laughs, heartfelt stories, and sparks of inspiration, this conversation proves that success doesn't just happen—it's poured, one memory at a time.   WATCH NEXT: A BIRD'S-EYE VIEW: CAPTURING TAMPA BAY'S WILD SIDE W/ ACCLAIMED PHOTOGRAPHER ANDY GLOGOWER https://youtu.be/Itf66I7iUcA SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ   Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC Vist The Candle Pour: https://thecandlepour.com

On this episode of "Money" Market, Owen LaFave talks with acclaimed Tampa Bay photographer Andy Glogower, whose striking wildlife and landscape images have a way of stopping people mid-scroll. His talent has earned him a multitude of awards and recognitions, including the title of Nature Photographer of the Year, a spot in the Top 10 Photographers by the Florida Professional Photographers, and representation for Team USA where he achieved the bronze medal in the Professional Photographers Association's World Photographic Cup. Andy shares how he transforms everyday settings – whether a quiet retention pond or the bustling ZooTampa – into unforgettable works of art. His signature style of clean, focused photography invites viewers to pause, breathe, and see the world a little differently. More than just a conversation about photography, this episode is about creativity, authenticity, and the joy of finding beauty in unexpected places. Owen and Andy dive into the magic behind capturing "the moment," from binocular-assisted birdwatching trips to chasing that perfect light. They also explore how AI is reshaping photography, from removing distractions with a click to fabricating scenes so convincing, even close friends can't tell the difference.   WATCH NEXT: THE LINKEDIN ECONOMIST UNPLUGGED https://youtu.be/lFIu1czQX8I?si=aDRk072Yp7xeLWJP   SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ   Follow The "Money" Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC   Follow Andy here: https://www.instagram.com/andyglogowerphotography/ https://www.facebook.com/AndyGlogowerPhotography/

This week on "Money" Market, the tables are turned as host Owen finds himself in the hot seat — interviewed by none other than his wife (and previous Money Market Podcast guest), Jessica Muroff, who also happens to be the CEO of United Way Suncoast. Listeners get a rare behind-the-mic look at Owen's journey from almost-med-student to respected banking leader and podcast voice. Jessica dives into the origin story of the podcast, Owen's career pivots, and why "relationships" keep coming up as the true currency of success. They laugh over Jessica once publicly dubbing him the Sexiest Man Alive (sorry, Brad Pitt), while also unpacking more serious lessons from the financial crisis, leadership, and emotional intelligence. Owen shares why he ditched the idea of "work-life balance" in favor of prioritization and purpose. This "Cheesehead" also explains what drew him to commercial real estate, how he built credibility in Pinellas County, and why culture matters more than money as a career progresses. Plus, he reveals how he accidentally became known as the "LinkedIn Economist." "Money" Market gets personal and professional with candid insights, thoughtful leadership lessons, and plenty of playful banter.   SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ Follow The Money Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

What makes St. Pete–Clearwater one of the world's most resilient and desirable destinations? In this episode of "Money" Market, host Owen LaFave sits down with Brian Lowack, President & CEO of Visit St. Pete–Clearwater, to discuss how the region is attracting visitors from across the globe. They cover everything from international travel trends and new direct flights to Latin America, to rebounding from hurricanes with a "Still Shining" campaign that united the community and drove tourism. Brian also shares insights on the Bay Area's evolving food scene, Michelin recognition, and yes—even the best grouper sandwiches on the coast. WATCH NEXT: PRESCRIPTION FOR THE FUTURE: AI AND CARE THAT CLICKS WITH FLORIDA BLUE MARKET PRESIDENT https://open.spotify.com/episode/48hIXi9N2h6uX0TTuFphsW?si=rN_UlDheTPKgoLGOvqEM_w SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ Follow The Money Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=27d047641a1d4b17 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneymarketpodcast Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

What if artificial intelligence could make your doctor's visit shorter, your bills cheaper, and your care more personal? In this episode of Money Market, host Owen LaFave chats with Florida Blue's West Florida Market President, Phil Lee, to explore how AI is reshaping the healthcare experience from the inside out. Together, they unpack how automation is freeing up doctors and nurses to spend more time with patients, why affordability is at the center of every decision, and how behavioral health is finally getting the spotlight it deserves. Along the way, we hear how Florida's unique challenges—like hurricanes, a rapidly growing population, and the needs of aging communities—push healthcare leaders to innovate faster and smarter. We also dive into the delicate balance between technology and trust, as Florida Blue works to protect sensitive data while leaning into AI's transformative potential. From behind-the-scenes efficiency to bedside compassion, this episode shows what happens when cutting-edge technology and human empathy work hand-in-hand. Tune in for a look at healthcare's future—where smarter systems mean simpler, more humane care for everyone. WATCH NEXT: PRESIDENT OF ADVENTHEALTH FOUNDATION WEST FLORIDA, KRISTEN MCCALLhttps://youtu.be/cuM0-uPmyJU  SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@UCz_7yNs7dOuyKApAkohqJIQ Follow The Money Market Podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6e7E0DaJZQkuw339G7nGI4?si=790711b61bc4466b Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-money-market-podcast/id1733948143 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymarketpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573906118470 Website: https://moneymarketpodcast.com   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

What if we told you philanthropy has one of the best returns on investment out there? In this episode of Money Market, host Owen LaFave sits down with Kristen McCall, President of AdventHealth Foundation West Florida, to explore how generosity isn't just good for the soul—it's good business, too. Kristen shares her journey from sorority VP of Philanthropy to leading 11 foundations and a 23-person team, proving that passion and persistence can build a career as rewarding as it is impactful. She explains why every donated dollar can return fivefold in value, how initiatives like the mammography bus are changing healthcare access for teachers, and why "grateful patients" fuel much of the giving in Tampa Bay. Along the way, we learn about philanthropy's surprising role in oncology, workforce development, and even AI-powered fundraising. Kristen also pulls back the curtain on building donor trust during the pandemic—without leading with the ask—and how relationships (and even Harley Davidson stories) can turn skeptics into supporters. From personal patient stories to big-vision community projects, this episode shows philanthropy as the engine driving healthcare forward. Listen in for equal parts inspiration, strategy, and a reminder that sometimes the best investments don't show up on Wall Street.   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Chris has always had a passion for animals. This passion manifested itself into a lifelong career of caring for animals at one of the world's finest zoos - ZooTampa at Lowry Park. From humble beginnings working as a primate intern to his rise as the Chief Zoological Officer, Chris has developed a sophisticated team of zoo professionals that passionately care for around 1000 animals. In fiscal year 2034, ZooTampa is projected to generate $280 million in total economic impact in current dollar value, a 45 percent increase from fiscal year 2019 due to the implementation of the Zoo's master plan. Join us as Chris discusses everything from the full life cycle of the animals, the zoo's current projects like their manatee conservation project, the zoo being featured on National Geographic's "WILD: Secrets of the Zoo," the zoo's future plans and their impact on the Tampa Bay community, and the sensationalism of the de-extinction of animals. You won't want to miss it.   The Bank of Tampa | FDIC

Is a recession looming? How will tariffs impact business? Where is the market headed? Are we doomed? Patrick Luce and Jeremy Bess have surprising answers. Both are senior economists at Stantec and have been a tag team duo ever since they graduated from University of Tampa with their B.A. and USF with their masters. Equal parts fun and informative, this lively episode is sure to be anything but normal. And they have props – penalty flags that they throw at each other when they think the other is out of line. Listen in as they give their expert insights and answer some of the more difficult questions we have all been asking about the global economy and how it impacts the Tampa Bay area.   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Working as a policy analyst for the federal government spanning three different presidents is a successful endeavor. Building a successful 100 million dollar business and selling it is even more impressive, especially since it was never meant to be a serious job. Now, Lauren Weiner has compiled what made her successful in her new book Unruly: Deconstruct the Rules, Defy the Norms, and Define Your Success where she teaches readers how to challenge expectations, navigate power dynamics, and play the game their own way. Join us as we dive into Lauren's background with the government, how she built a successful women-owned national security contracting business, writing a book, her life as a speaker and consultant, and balancing it all with her family life. This episode is a must for anyone looking to defy norms and be Unruly…the right way.   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Neil Kiefer is the CEO of HMC Hospitality Group and one of the six founders of The Original Hooters® in Clearwater, Florida. While Hooters of America has flown away from its roots, Kiefer and his team have consistently implemented the game plan that made them successful in the first place. The corporate-owned Hooters® (HOA) has not only filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, they've also shut down several locations across the country. Kiefer and Co. at HMC? Steady growth year-over-year. Now, they are poised for growth as they take over several of the corporate-owned locations, bringing those locations back to what made the iconic brand successful in the first place. In this episode, Neil dispels the myths surrounding The Original Hooters® brand, reminisces about the early days, and talks about HMC's game plan to turnaround one of the most recognizable brands in the restaurant industry in the past 50 years.   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Mike Boylan of Mike's Weather Page is a content creator and weather enthusiast most Floridians know and have come to trust during storm season. He joins host Owen LaFave to tell the story of how an "average guy with no agenda" went from creating a simple website in the early 2000s to becoming an unexpected social media sensation. Mike shares how his low-hype, no-click-bait approach to weather has built trust with residents of Florida and beyond. While he's always open about not having a meteorology degree, he's built credibility through storm chasing and by forming relationships with government officials. Mike's goal is to share his passion for weather and respect for Mother Nature by teaching people how they can better understand storm patterns and prepare. In this wide-ranging conversation, Mike explains how simple concepts like "Know your zone," "Halfway full, halfway there," and "Don't be stubborn" can help Floridians avoid panic-mode but also know when to evacuate–especially when it comes to in-land areas prone to flooding that may not receive as much media attention. Hear Mike's candid thoughts on whether or not he thinks Atlantic storms are really getting worse, how AI is changing weather forecasting, and which record-breaking hurricane is the one he'll never forget. Hint: You can't go by CAT strength alone. The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Andrea Gonzmart Williams, the fifth-generation caretaker of the Columbia Restaurant Group and Tampa's 2024 Hispanic Woman of the Year, joins Owen LaFave to tell the inspiring story of an establishment that needs no introduction if you're a local. Founded in 1905, the Columbia Restaurant survived historical events like the Great Depression, Prohibition, and the Spanish Flu and has expanded to include other restaurant brands such as Ulele, Goody Goody, and Cha Cha Coconuts in Sarasota. Andrea describes how consistency has allowed this family-owned business to balance tradition and innovation across generations for nearly 120 years. From surviving financial challenges to hurricanes and COVID, Andrea recounts how her father's leadership and resilience helped save and grow the business while always prioritizing community and working alongside staff. She reveals how the company makes caring for employees a priority—keeping them paid and supported through the pandemic and other crises—and reflects on the emotional weight of carrying on her family's legacy. What is Andrea's own approach to leadership in the restaurant industry? Spoiler: It involves putting in the hours, even when that means rolling up your sleeves to do dishes at 2am.   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Craig Richard, President and CEO of the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council (EDC), joins Owen LaFave to discuss Tampa Bay's strength as the fourth most diverse economy in the United States, a reality that helped it recover quickly from the COVID-19 pandemic. The EDC's mission is to build a thriving local economy that attracts and retains businesses from a variety of industries. To accomplish these goals, the EDC works closely with the Chamber of Commerce to facilitate major investments, provide career training and entrepreneurial opportunities, and encourage the creation of tens of thousands of jobs. Greg touches on the factors that make major companies want to come to and expand in Tampa Bay, including the skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and appealing lifestyle. Yet despite Tampa's ability to compete with larger cities not just in Florida but nationwide, disparities still exist in certain regions and communities. Listen in to learn how the EDC seeks to close these gaps and how the power of regional collaboration among surrounding counties is key to benefitting the entire Tampa Bay area.   The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC