Roger Germann, President and CEO of The Florida Aquarium, sits down with Owen LaFave to discuss why turning Tampa Bay into a cultural gem of Florida is a worthwhile investment. Having reached the milestone of serving over 1 million visitors per year for the past two years, The Florida Aquarium – rated among the top 10 aquariums in the nation – is a prime example of how an attraction can engage the local community and expand beyond tourism dependence, resulting in an economic impact of over $300 million annually. When Roger first came to Tampa Bay and claimed he wanted to double the aquarium's $21 million budget, some may have had doubts – but he's done it! Learn how reinvesting in the facility, focusing on education and conservation, listening to members, reconnecting with locals, and prioritizing regional partnerships/vendors has led not only to market success and a $45 million expansion but to improved quality of life for the residents of Tampa Bay. As Roger likes to say, it's your Florida aquarium.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Phil Esposito, an NHL Hall of Famer instrumental in expanding the sport of hockey in Florida, gives Owen LaFave the inside scoop on what it takes to build a long-lasting career in a specific industry–even an industry as competitive as professional sports. Ever candid, Esposito describes how he pivoted from being a record-breaking NHL player in the 1970s and 80s to building a hockey franchise in Tampa Bay with his brother, goalkeeper Tony Esposito, in the early 90s. At the time, many doubted professional hockey could succeed in Florida, but as the first president and general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Phil Esposito proved the naysayers wrong. From overcoming a low point of his career when he left as GM of the New York Rangers, to later returning to the Lightning as Tampa Bay's radio color commentator, Esposito shares an array of entertaining stories for the avid hockey fan and enterprising business leader alike.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Raphael Perrier, co-founder of Kahwa Coffee Roasters, reveals to host, Owen LaFave, why a business' brand is its most vital asset–even if building a brand customers recognize is far from easy. Hear how Raphael and his wife Sarah launched Kahwa in a humble 3,000 square-foot warehouse and now operate out of a 20,000 square-foot facility, growing their retail locations and franchise to become the largest independent coffee roaster in Florida. Learn how Raphael finds employees he can trust to create a rapidly expanding business that stays consistent, from each cup of coffee to every franchise partner. Raphael spills the beans on what it's like running a business with your spouse and shares why he thinks the best leaders own their mistakes. And before your coffee gets cold, discover why Raphael thinks the unique flavor of the Tampa Bay region makes it one of the best communities to take risks in as an entrepreneur.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Veronica Cintron, Vice President of Communications at Tampa International Airport (TPA), sits down with Owen LaFave to discuss the $11 billion economic impact this award-winning airport has on the Tampa Bay region annually. Veronica shares her story of transitioning from a successful journalism career as a battle-tested news anchor to leading an aviation team during the 2020 pandemic when crisis communication began her first day on the job. She explains the social media secrets that allowed her team to give a government entity humor and personality, and shares how organizations can avoid information vacuums by speaking to the diverse needs of key stakeholders. Veronica also reveals upcoming expansions and new nonstop flights at TPA, as well as how the airport is driving the national conversation around an innovative, electric technology that may recreate "the future of mobility." Finally, Veronica gives us the full scoop on how Florida's most famous flamingo got her name.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Jeff Wherry, Vice President and Group Manager of Healthcare at JE Dunn Construction, joins host Owen LaFave to explore why the fast-growing Tampa Bay market is even bigger than we tend to think–and what this means for business leaders seeking to build bridges across the region. Jeff served in the U.S. Army where he disposed of explosives that destroyed buildings; now, he constructs buildings that provide healthcare access to millions. Hear his take on Florida's new approach to healthcare construction since 2019 and how it is transforming medical care in the region for the better. From the need to bring manufacturing and medicine production back home to the U.S., to the demand for young people to enter the trades, this dynamic conversation covers a lot of ground. Discover how competition among healthcare providers increases patient access and why not even labor shortages or inflation can stop construction in thriving Tampa Bay.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Ashley Watters, President of the Westshore Alliance and Commercial Relationship Manager for The Bank of Tampa, talks shop with Owen LaFave about the exciting future of the Westshore District, one of Tampa's most prolific areas. Ashley shares a brief history of the Alliance and the leadership that has solidified its position as the leading business district, not just in Tampa Bay, but all of Florida. She also discusses how they are facilitating the district and region's growth through infrastructure developments, transportation solutions (the Westshore Interchange), and it's incorporation of WORK, LIVE, and PLAY. Lastly, Ashley talks about female leadership, her road to becoming the current president, and the impact of public art on a community.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Scott Smith, President of St. Anthony's Hospital, joins host Owen LaFave to explore the hospital's rich history and its deep roots in the St. Petersburg community. Founded in 1921 as Faith Hospital and acquired by the Franciscan Sisters of Alleghany in 1931, this 448-bed facility became part of BayCare in 1997, the largest hospital network in West Central Florida with 16 hospitals. Scott reflects on how the Franciscan Sisters' mission and values continue to shape the hospital's culture over a century later. He also delves into the evolving landscape of healthcare post-pandemic and highlights BayCare's groundbreaking innovations, such as the St. Joseph's Just Walk Out partnership with Amazon and the launch of the BayCare Virtual Hospital. Tune in to hear Scott's thoughtful approach to building and executing a strategic plan that emphasizes culture, process, financial health, and growth— a formula for success that's just what the doctor ordered!

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Oscar Horton, Sun State International's President and Chief Executive Officer, and one of Tampa Bay's Most Admired CEOs of the Year, as deemed by the Tampa Bay Business Journal, joins host, Owen LaFave, to share his "secret sauce" to running his award-winning family-owned commercial truck and trailer business. Learn how his experience in the niche harvesting equipment industry led to a move to Tampa and the purchase of Sun State in 2001.Oscar shares his business philosophy and acumen, like his Tri-Force method for feedback, which applies far beyond the trucking industry, and stresses the importance of "finding your solid!" Get his take on the future of driverless and electric trucks and hear his insights on uncovering your philanthropic fit.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Jennifer Rominiecki, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, sits down with host Owen LaFave and shares the 50-year history of this award-winning 45-acre, two-campus, sanctuary located on Sarasota Bay. Jennifer tells the story of how she, a born and bred New Yorker, with an impressive fine arts resume, made her way to Sarasota and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to help transform the museum and the property to what is today – the world's first net positive energy botanical garden complex and destination restaurant, completely powered by the sun. Jennifer shares her favorite plants, provides easy-to-follow instructions to keep orchids blooming and gives advice to those in the arts and non-profit space!

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC

Legendary Florida land use attorney, Ronald Weaver, sits down to explore his remarkable 50-year career. Known for his pivotal role in shaping Tampa Bay and Florida's growth, Ron shares stories from his journey, offering insight into the explosive development that has transformed the region. From Tampa's rich historical roots to the essential role of infrastructure in its future, he sheds light on the legal and logistical frameworks that have paved the way for Florida's expansion. Join us for a fascinating discussion on the past, present, and future of land use, infrastructure, and growth in Tampa Bay with one of the state's most influential voices.

The Bank of Tampa | Member FDIC