Waves of Impact

Hospitality Roundtable: 5 Years Later - From Crisis to Prosperity

Five years ago, we gathered at Timeless Tanglewood for what began as a discussion about our local hospitality industry. Then, the whole world shut down. The Hospitality Roundtable quickly evolved into a vital gathering where local leaders helped each other navigate unprecedented challenges. Representatives from FRLA, hotels, restaurants, and tourism all came together to document what was happening in real-time.

The original conversations can be found here: https://navigating-hospitality.blubrry.net/2020/03/19/march-192020/

Now, 5 years later, we find a different story. Bustling businesses and plentiful travel to the area have replaced uncertainty. Some faces around the table have changed, while others remain the same.

On April 4, 2025, we reunited at Trader Jon's inside the Pensacola History Museum—a fitting location as the first bar in Pensacola—to discuss hospitality 5 years after the crisis that brought us together.

Featured Participants:

• Rick West - President, VooDoo Franchising; Franchisee/Owner at VooDoo BBQ & Grill. 
• Nicole Stacey - Vice President of Destination Development, Visit Pensacola
• Dr. Scott Keller - Interim Dean, Professor, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business
• Dr. Alison Green - Professor, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business, GH&TM
• Dr. Richard R. Hawkins - Professor, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business

YouTube video can be found here: https://youtu.be/T0LIHT3DO4E?si=Y5i716QhVtTSY2a5

Filmed at Trader Jon's Located in the Pensacola Museum of History 330 S Jefferson St, Pensacola, FL 32502 Special 

Thank you to the UWF Historic Trust Robert Overton, Jr. Executive Director Alli Frank Event Coordinator

Thank you to our sponsor, UWF Historic Trust for allowing us to record the session at Trader Jon's. 

Trader Jon's

Martin "Trader Jon" Weissman, owner and namesake of Trader Jon's Bar, was well known for his personal eccentricities such as his famously mismatched socks and "Tradernomics" as well as his eclectic establishment. One of Pensacola's top tourist destinations for decades, Trader Jon's, decorated with photos and memorabilia, some traded for drinks, was a safe haven where young flight students, military personnel, astronauts and movie stars rubbed shoulders with local politicians, characters and the occasional ne'er-do-well. Trained as a U. S. paratrooper in WWII, Trader's lifelong love of naval aviation and his livelihood were inseparable. There was truly nothing like it on Earth! Step inside and experience the legend that was Trader Jon's.

The Trader Jon Exhibit is housed in the Pensacola Museum of History. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00-4:00 and Noon-4:00 on Sunday

Hospitality Roundtable: 5 Years Later - From Crisis to Prosperity

Short on time? This is part 1 of the Hospitality Roundtable.

Five years ago, we gathered at Timeless Tanglewood for what began as a discussion about our local hospitality industry. Then, the whole world shut down. The Hospitality Roundtable quickly evolved into a vital gathering where local leaders helped each other navigate unprecedented challenges. Representatives from FRLA, hotels, restaurants, and tourism all came together to document what was happening in real-time.

The original conversations can be found here: https://navigating-hospitality.blubrry.net/2020/03/19/march-192020/

Now, 5 years later, we find a different story. Bustling businesses and plentiful travel to the area have replaced uncertainty. Some faces around the table have changed, while others remain the same.

On April 4, 2025, we reunited at Trader Jon's inside the Pensacola History Museum—a fitting location as the first bar in Pensacola—to discuss hospitality 5 years after the crisis that brought us together.

Featured Participants:

• Rick West - President, VooDoo Franchising; Franchisee/Owner at VooDoo BBQ & Grill. 
• Nicole Stacey - Vice President of Destination Development, Visit Pensacola
• Dr. Scott Keller - Interim Dean, Professor, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business
• Dr. Alison Green - Professor, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business, GH&TM
• Dr. Richard R. Hawkins - Professor, Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business

YouTube video can be found here: https://youtu.be/T0LIHT3DO4E?si=Y5i716QhVtTSY2a5

Filmed at Trader Jon's Located in the Pensacola Museum of History 330 S Jefferson St, Pensacola, FL 32502 Special 

Thank you to the UWF Historic Trust Robert Overton, Jr. Executive Director Alli Frank Event Coordinator

Thank you to our sponsor, UWF Historic Trust for allowing us to record the session at Trader Jon's. 

Trader Jon's

Martin "Trader Jon" Weissman, owner and namesake of Trader Jon's Bar, was well known for his personal eccentricities such as his famously mismatched socks and "Tradernomics" as well as his eclectic establishment. One of Pensacola's top tourist destinations for decades, Trader Jon's, decorated with photos and memorabilia, some traded for drinks, was a safe haven where young flight students, military personnel, astronauts and movie stars rubbed shoulders with local politicians, characters and the occasional ne'er-do-well. Trained as a U. S. paratrooper in WWII, Trader's lifelong love of naval aviation and his livelihood were inseparable. There was truly nothing like it on Earth! Step inside and experience the legend that was Trader Jon's.

The Trader Jon Exhibit is housed in the Pensacola Museum of History. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00-4:00 and Noon-4:00 on Sunday

Nicole and Ali talk to Paula Shell, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida.

Paula Shell is the President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, serving the areas of Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, and Bay Counties. In this role she ensures the mission, strategy, values, and goals of the organization are achieved by the agency. This includes producing positive outcomes in the following areas: Leadership (agency and staff), vision, fundraising, marketing, client services, community awareness, volunteer relations, and coordinating relations with the Board of Directors.

Shell is committed to driving social impact, fostering community engagement, and advocating for change. She has a proven track record in strategic planning, fundraising, and building partnerships with key stakeholders to drive long-term success.

Under her leadership, Big Brothers Big Sisters has opened two satellite offices, increased the number of children served, developed new innovative programing, established an agency endowment and scholarship program, to name a few.

Shell has worked in Child Services for 39 years. She began her career at Lakeview Center, Inc. managing group homes for adolescent boys and girls and in 1997 she started at Big Brothers Big Sisters where for the past 27 years she has served as the President and CEO. Shell holds an A.A. degree from Pensacola State College and a B.A. degree from the University of West Florida in Criminal Justice and Psychology.

Shell is a graduate of the 2003 Leadership Pensacola Class, a member of IMPACT 100, and serves as the lead staff member to Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida’s legislative direction and currently serves on the State Board.

Shell has served as a Big Sister to three Littles in her time with the agency and was named
Big Sister of the Year for the State of Florida in 2019. She enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and has trained and completed seven marathons through the Joints in Motion program having personally raised over $30,000 for Arthritis research.

Nicole and Ali talk with Madrina Ciano, an amazing woman who has a passion to serve others in the community.  Listen to what makes her tick, and you will hear her life with purpose.

Bio:

Madrina Ciano is from Honolulu, Hawaii and has lived in Pensacola since 1990. Professionally, she is a licensed Medical Esthetician and has owned and operated various businesses in the area, including a Day Spa that received the “Best of the Coast” award, a retail clothing boutique and an anti-aging skincare center with a prominent Pensacola dermatologist.

Madrina’s passion in life is to serve others, sharing the spirit of ALOHA wherever she goes. Throughout the years, Madrina has served on the board of numerous nonprofits including IMPACT 100, Covenant Care, Pensacola Little Theatre, and Pensacola MESS Hall. Currently, she proudly serves as Foundation President at The Arc Gateway and Fundraising Chair for Mr. Robbins’ Neighborhood.

For nearly 5 years, she has hosted a weekly show on BLAB Television called “Rolling with Madrina” which is a platform for nonprofits to share more about their mission.

Madrina and her husband Mark, founded the multi-award-winning civic organization, Krewe of SWAT. The Krewe hosts four high-impact signature events annually, benefiting Mr. Robbins’ Neighborhood, FoodRaising Friends and Brentwood Elementary School. SWAT is involved in countless other community events and projects throughout the year. With Madrina’s servant leadership of the Krewe, they have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars and received many accolades for their collective efforts including “Philanthropic Organization of the Year” by the Association of Fundraising Professionals and Community Vibrancy Award by Studer Community Institute.

Madrina’s individual commitment to serving others has also been widely recognized with many awards including “Volunteer of the Year” and “Living the Dream.” Her large presence in the community and on social media platforms opened doors to Brand Ambassador and Influencer roles with local corporations Step One Automotive Group, The Eye Guy Café, Dillard’s Cordova Mall, and Welch SkinCare Center. She was named “Woman of the Year-Ambassador/Influencer" by Scarlett Magazine for her “Maserati Madrina” persona, representing Maserati Pensacola, a brand of Step One Auto Group.

When Madrina isn’t busy giving back, she cherishes time with her four grandchildren or spending weekends with her husband.

Nicole and Ali talk to Robin Zimmern, Executive Director for Alumni Relations and Development. Robin gives advice to her 16 year old self, and reflects on belonging.

Robin has worked at the University of West Florida since 2007. Before moving to University Advancement, she had critical roles within the offices of Career Development, the Dean of Students and the UWF Student Government Association. In her current role as the Executive Director of Alumni Relations and Development, Robin is a vital member of both the Office of Alumni Relations and the department of Development. She oversees the operations, board activities and planning for the Office of Alumni Relations which includes three full-time staff members. Through her work in development, Robin fundraises for the UWF Foundation and leads fundraising efforts for the Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business, the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities and all planned giving efforts for the university. Robin sits on several local boards, including the Pensacola Little Theatre, Manna, Junior League of Pensacola, Fiesta Pensacola, Valerie's House and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Nicole and Ali talk with Dayla Stanely, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement and Development at UWF. Listen to how Kayla adapts and engages with people in the community.

Women in Leadership Conference, University of West Florida, 2025.

Live! Discussion with Lindsey Steck | Visit Pensacola | Marketing & Communications Manager and Melissa Bailey | Visit Pensacola | Partner Relations Manager.

"Leadership, when it's done right, it's done from the heart." Commander Armatas

In this compelling episode, host Tim Kinsella sits down with Commander Alexander P. Armatas, the esteemed Flight Leader and Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels. With a career that spans over two decades, CDR Armatas brings a wealth of experience and insight into what it truly means to lead with passion and integrity.

Born and raised in Skaneateles, New York, CDR Armatas graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in aerospace engineering. His journey as a Naval Aviator began at NAS Meridian, Mississippi, in 2005, and since then, he has served in various critical roles, including Schedules Officer, Weapons Training Officer, and Safety Officer, among others.

Throughout his illustrious career, CDR Armatas has completed multiple deployments in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. His leadership and dedication have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious George H. W. Bush Leadership Award and the Navy and Marine Corps Association Leadership Award.

In this episode, CDR Armatas shares his experiences from his time with the "Eagles" of VFA-115, the "Tophatters" of VFA-14, and the "Pukin’ Dogs" of VFA-143, to his current role with the Blue Angels. He delves into the challenges and triumphs of leading elite teams in high-stakes environments and the importance of fostering a culture of excellence and trust.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the principles of effective leadership, the significance of mentorship, and the impact of leading with heart and authenticity. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to be one, this episode offers a unique perspective on the qualities that define true leadership.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with CDR Alexander P. Armatas, as we explore the heart of leadership and the journey of a remarkable Naval Aviator.

visit www.blueangels.navy.mil for more information on the Blue Angels

During the annual Women in Leadership Conference, we captured snips from the event. 

• Leah Kinsella, Founder, Coach, Leader of Meditation - https://leahkinsella.com/
• Emily Ley, Founder, Simplified - https://www.emilyley.com/
• Moderator: Dannon Byrd, Owner, Tap the Coast 
• Jacey Cosentino, Wealth management advisor, Peacock Wealth Management at Edward Jones
• Katie Garrett, Owner/Founder, Old Hickory Whiskey Bar, The Kennedy and Onassis
• Stephanie Knight, Founder, Escape Wellness Spa
• Jessica Lee, General Manager and Vice President, Kia AutoSport
• Tia Robbins, Founder, Taste of Pensacola
• Erik Stolhanske, Actor, Writer, Producer - https://erikstolhanske.net/
• Moderator: Nicole Stacey, Vice President of Destination Development, Visit Pensacola 
• Holly Benson, Founder and CEO, Screen Corps, LLC
• Jen Grove, Vice President of External Operations, Baptist Health Care
• Robin Reshard, Community Advocate, Kukua Institute
• Alicia Tappan, Founder and CEO, Tappan Consulting, Inc. 
• Pamela Barnum, Former Undercover Police Officer and Federal Prosecuting Attorney - https://pamelabarnum.com/
• Laura Hussey, Morning Anchor, WEAR ABC Channel 3
• Carmela Cook, Baptist Health Care

Martha Dunagin Saunders is the sixth president of the University of West Florida.

In her 30-plus years in higher education, Dr. Saunders has served in academic and leadership roles at universities in Florida, Georgia, Wisconsin and Mississippi. Her area of academic expertise is in public relations and crisis communication for which she has won numerous awards, including two coveted Silver Anvils from the Public Relations Society of America.

Under her leadership, the University of West Florida has transformed into a first-choice institution. 

She led UWF to its status as a top-performing public university in the Florida Board of Governors performance-based funding metrics for three consecutive years. The University also ranked among the top 15 public regional institutions in the South in the 2020 and 2021 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges and was named a “Great College to Work For” by ModernThink and featured in The Chronicle of Higher Education. 

She established the state’s first doctoral program in intelligent systems and robotics in partnership with the Florida Institute of Human Machine Cognition. She also oversaw the development of Florida’s first bachelor’s in cybersecurity degree program designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the National Security Agency and U.S. Department of Homeland Security. 

As provost and executive vice president for UWF, Dr. Saunders established the Division of Student Affairs and Academic Engagement and the Center for Cybersecurity. Equity and diversity initiatives launched under her guidance propelled the institution to receive the Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine six times. She also led the reorganization of the institution’s colleges and guided the establishment of two new named colleges—the Usha Kundu, MD College of Health and the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering. 

Dr. Saunders’ vision is for UWF to grow beyond its beginnings as a regional comprehensive university and receive recognition as a leader in innovation and cutting-edge academic programs. 

As an entrepreneurial leader, Dr. Saunders is passionate about creating innovative solutions for the dynamic challenges facing higher education. As a change maker, she drives action behind these solutions, propelling higher education into the future.

Dr. Saunders earned a bachelor’s degree in French from the University of Southern Mississippi, a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Georgia and a doctorate in communication theory and research from Florida State University. 

When Dr. Saunders is not attending to University needs, she and her husband, Joe Bailey, can be found walking, shelling, gardening, kayaking or fishing on her beloved Pensacola Beach.