In this episode of Chamber Chats, we’re joined by Karen Govern, Chief Executive Officer of STARability Foundation, a Naples nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

In this episode, we explore:

• STARability’s growth and what’s driving its expanding impact
• How the organization is addressing longstanding service gaps
• The importance of inclusion and community partnerships
• The vision for the new North Naples campus and future programs

This conversation offers meaningful insight into how nonprofits, businesses, and community leaders can work together to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.

In this episode of Chamber Chats, we sit down with Cormac Giblin, Director of Housing Policy & Economic Development for Collier County Government, to discuss how strategic partnerships are shaping the future of Collier County’s economy.

Cormac shares insight into the Partnership for Collier’s Future Economy—a collaborative effort between Collier County and the Greater Naples Chamber designed to strengthen, diversify, and support long-term economic growth.

In this episode, we explore:

• What the Partnership for Collier’s Future Economy is and why it matters
• The critical services available to businesses, from site selection to workforce development
• How Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) visits support existing employers
• Why collaboration and partnerships are essential to economic resilience

Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or community member, this conversation offers valuable insight into how economic development efforts support job creation and sustainable growth across Collier County.

In this episode of Chamber Chats, we sit down with Jim Conlin, Star Certified Product Ambassador at Mercedes-Benz of Naples, for an inside look at the evolving luxury automotive market.

With more than three decades of experience in the automotive industry, Jim shares expert insight into current inventory trends, what sets Mercedes-Benz of Naples apart, and how the dealership continues to balance luxury, accessibility, and exceptional customer service in today’s market.

Whether you’re actively car shopping or simply interested in smart business practices and strong brand leadership, this episode offers a front-row seat into the world of luxury automotive and what’s driving it forward.

Tune in for expert insights and a behind-the-scenes look at one of Naples’ premier luxury dealerships.

In this episode of Chamber Chats, we sit down with Cynthia Valenti Smith, Vice President and Mortgage Production Manager for Regions Bank across Collier, Lee, and Charlotte Counties. With more than 30 years of banking experience, Cynthia blends deep financial expertise with a passion for community engagement and equitable opportunity.

In this episode, we explore:
• How Regions Bank’s mission translates into real impact across Southwest Florida
• The importance of financial wellness, economic development, and workforce readiness
• How community partnerships are opening doors for youth, adults, and individuals with disabilities
• The role collaboration plays in building inclusive and sustainable prosperity

Tune in to learn how financial wellness and community collaboration are creating meaningful opportunities in our region.

In this episode of Chamber Chats, we’re joined by Phil Lee, West Florida Market President for Florida Blue, the state’s leading health solutions company. With major changes on the horizon for Open Enrollment and the future of federal subsidies, Phil helps break down what individuals, families, and business owners need to know to make informed, affordable coverage decisions.

In this episode, we’ll explore:
• What’s different in this year’s Open Enrollment Period
• Why federal subsidies matter and what may change after 2025
• How Florida Blue is helping individuals and businesses find more affordable coverage
• Broader trends shaping Florida’s health insurance market

Phil also answers some of the most common questions Florida consumers and employers are asking right now from subsidy changes to affordability concerns and insurance options across carriers.

In this episode of Chamber Chats, we sit down with Linda Boggier, Certified Consulting Hypnotist, Wellness Coach to explore how hypnosis can be a powerful tool for improving well-being and achieving personal and professional goals.

With over a decade of experience helping individuals transform habits, manage stress, and build confidence, Linda shares how tapping into the subconscious mind opens the door to meaningful, lasting change.

Whether you’re a wellness advocate, business leader, or simply curious about how hypnosis works, this episode offers valuable insight into the mind’s natural ability to heal, grow, and thrive.

In this episode of Chamber Chats, we’re joined by Annalise Smith, Chief Philanthropy Officer at AVOW Foundation, to explore how compassionate care, grief support, and community generosity come together to make a lasting difference in Southwest Florida. 

Whether you’re looking to better understand end-of-life care or discover new ways to give back, this episode offers heartfelt insights into the power of compassion and connection in our community.

In this episode of Chamber Chats, we sit down with Dorian Zwierewicz, Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). Dorian shares how the SBDC empowers businesses with fewer than 500 employees — from launching a startup and navigating growth challenges to securing government contracts and scaling successfully.

Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or an established business owner, this conversation is packed with valuable insights, resources, and guidance to help your business thrive.