Your Palm Beach Guide

In this special episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we hand the mic to the team behind the magic — it's a Chamber staff takeover featuring Director of Communications and Events Katie Reichelt, Membership Coordinator Brendan Patterson, and operational cornerstone Jane Hesser Lill!

From Katie's behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to pull off a packed season of events, to Brendan's first 30 days navigating the fast-paced world of Chamber membership, to Jane's perspective as one of the organization's most enduring pillars — this episode pulls back the curtain on the people, culture, and energy that keep the Palm Beach Chamber running.

It's candid, it's fun, and it's a genuine look at the heart of one of Palm Beach's most dynamic organizations.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Michael Simms, wealth strategist and community leader, to explore what it truly means to build, protect, and grow lasting financial well-being in today's evolving economy.

With more than three decades of experience, Michael shares his philosophy on comprehensive financial planning, the most common mistakes individuals and businesses make with their wealth, and how strategic thinking separates long-term success from short-term gains. We also explore his deep commitment to civic leadership, from shaping educational opportunities through the Palm Beach Gardens Five Star Magnet Program to organizing the Arti Faulk Golf Classic and championing military appreciation in the community.

Whether you're navigating your own financial journey or looking for insight from a leader who has built both business success and lasting community impact, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Madean Gilzene, healthcare executive, nonprofit founder, and entrepreneur, to explore how mission-driven leadership can transform both the business landscape and the lives of those most in need.

Madean is the owner of Echelon Executive Suites and Aura Studios, the very space where this podcast is produced, and the President & CEO of The Extraordinary Kids Foundation, supporting children with special needs and medically complex families. We discuss what inspired her entrepreneurial journey, the vision behind creating elevated professional spaces in Palm Beach, and the heart behind her nonprofit work.

Whether you're a business owner looking to establish roots in Palm Beach or someone moved by the power of purpose-driven leadership, this conversation is a masterclass in building a legacy that matters.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Margit Brandt, one of the leading forces in Palm Beach's ultra-luxury real estate market. Known for her discretion, precision, and deep market insight, Margit offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to operate at the highest level of real estate.

From her early experience in New York to building a powerful presence on the island, Margit shares how the Palm Beach market has evolved - and what today's high-net-worth buyers are truly looking for. We explore how strategy shifts in $30M+ transactions, the role of relationships and instinct in deal-making, and the unseen complexities behind some of the market's most significant sales.

Margit also discusses the importance of trust, personal brand, and "white-glove" service in a highly private, relationship-driven market. Looking ahead, she shares her perspective on where Palm Beach real estate is headed and what it takes to break into the world of luxury at the highest level.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Erick Solms, founder of Simplitfy®, to explore how businesses can take a smarter, more strategic approach to technology.

From starting his career as an IT intern to launching a company focused on fully managing and optimizing clients' technology, Erick shares how his hands-on experience shaped his approach to IT as a true business driver - not just a support function. We dive into what it really means to "take ownership" of a company's IT, and why proactive strategy is essential in today's fast-moving digital landscape.

Erick also breaks down common technology mistakes, the biggest cybersecurity risks businesses face right now, and how companies in Palm Beach are evolving as they scale and adapt. Looking ahead, he offers insight into where technology is headed and how businesses can prepare now to stay competitive, secure, and efficient.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Allison Stockel, Executive Director of Glazer Hall, to discuss her remarkable journey from television production with major networks like CNN and MTV to leading prominent arts institutions.

With decades of experience in nonprofit arts leadership, Allison shares insights from her time growing and transforming organizations like Ridgefield Playhouse, and what excites her most about shaping the future of arts and culture in Palm Beach. We explore the role the arts play in building community, how to create programming that is both accessible and elevated, and the importance of strong partnerships in the nonprofit world.

Allison also reflects on leadership, fundraising, and the evolving challenges facing arts organizations today - while offering a thoughtful perspective on what success looks like in this next chapter at Glazer Hall.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Alyssa Freeman, Executive Director of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, to explore the vital role the marine industry plays in shaping the region's economy, culture, and coastal lifestyle.

With a career spanning nearly two decades in the industry, Alyssa shares her journey from growing up on the water in Michigan to leading one of Palm Beach County's most influential organizations. We discuss the impact of boating and marine businesses on the local community, current industry trends, and how Palm Beach's unique coastal identity continues to evolve.

Alyssa also offers insight into leadership, workforce development, and the importance of balancing industry growth with environmental stewardship. Whether you're a boating enthusiast or simply curious about one of Palm Beach's key industries, this conversation highlights the people and passion behind life on the water.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, our Chief Advancement Officer, Kiana, shares key Chamber updates along with practical tips to help members get the most out of their membership. From must-do strategies to common mistakes to avoid, this quick conversation is packed with insight to help you stay engaged, connected, and make your membership work for you.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Kurt Crowl, President and Owner of Travel Leaders Palm Beach, to explore how luxury travel has evolved — and why working with a trusted advisor makes all the difference.

With nearly 30 years of experience across airlines, hotels, and travel management, Kurt shares how his global perspective helps clients move beyond simple bookings to fully curated, unforgettable experiences. We discuss the changing role of travel advisors, common misconceptions, and how insider relationships open doors around the world.

Kurt also dives into travel trends among Palm Beach residents, how far in advance to plan today's luxury trips, and what truly separates a good vacation from an exceptional one. Whether you're planning your next getaway or just dreaming about it, this conversation offers valuable insight into the art of meaningful travel.

In this episode of Your Palm Beach Guide, we sit down with Jeff Sophir, co-founder of a family of companies shaping some of the most stunning landscapes across South Florida. From estate landscaping and tree care to interior botanical design, Jeff shares how he and his brother built an integrated ecosystem of businesses rooted in quality, innovation, and growth.

We explore what makes Palm Beach such a unique and demanding market, the role of outdoor design in defining the local lifestyle, and the level of care required to maintain world-class properties. Jeff also offers insight into leadership, building strong teams, and sustaining a culture across multiple companies.