Fluent in Floridian

What does it really take to build hope, support and lasting change in the mental health space? Carali McLean, executive director of NAMI Florida, has some ideas. In this episode, SMPR President Heidi Otway sits down with Carali, a lifelong advocate whose journey from Pinellas County to statewide leadership is rooted in a core belief: asking for help is a strength. They discuss her early work in clinical social work, Florida's evolving mental health landscape, and NAMI's role in supporting communities from big cities to rural towns.

Traci Deen has dedicated her career to advocating for Florida, first as a public defender and now as the CEO of Conservation Florida, a nonprofit focused on preserving the state's water, land and wildlife. With over 34 million acres of land, Florida's ecosystems are central to the state's identity. But now, more than ever, they need our protection. In this episode, Traci sits down with SMPR President Heidi Otway to share her journey, what drives her passion, and why every Floridian has a role in protecting this special place they call home.  

In this episode, SMPR President and Partner Heidi Otway sits down with James Woolley, a lifelong film enthusiast and executive director of the Miami Film Festival. He shares his journey from studying film management to gaining global festival experience and now curating a lineup that celebrates Miami's rich culture. James shares that film festivals are more than just watching movies. They offer a behind-the-scenes look at the industry, opportunities to hear from filmmakers, and the chance to ask questions to rising stars. All while experiencing Oscar-worthy cinema alongside fellow movie lovers. Tune in to hear how James is shaping the future of film in Miami and discover how you can help keep the industry alive.   

In this inspiring episode, SMPR President Heidi Otway sits down with Tiffany Greene, a proud FAMU alumna and trailblazing ESPN play-by-play commentator. As a Tampa native, Tiffany shares how her father's influence and her passion for storytelling led her from FAMU's broadcast journalism program to making history as the first African American woman to call NCAA football on a major network. From her early days as a local TV reporter to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in HBCU football, Tiffany opens up about the challenges and successes of being a woman in sports media. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into what's next for her career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, breaking barriers, and the power of representation in sports broadcasting!  

One of Florida's most successful early learning models can be found where you may least expect it – a rural, multicultural community in South Florida with a population of 34,000 people. Immokalee is home to Guadalupe Center, where educators are breaking the poverty cycle and shaping childrens' futures through innovative educational programs. In this episode, SMPR President Heidi Otway chats with Guadalupe Center CEO Dawn Montecalvo about her inspiring transition from film studies to the nonprofit industry, and the importance of early childhood education in strengthening communities.  

Florida may be best known for its beaches and tourism, but it is also a manufacturing powerhouse. In this episode, seasoned manufacturing expert and FloridaMakes CEO Kevin Carr joins SMPR President Heidi Otway to chat about this growing industry. The word "manufacturing" is often associated primarily with cars, but it encompasses everything around you, from chocolate and medical devices to cheesecakes and everyday essentials. Tune in to hear Kevin map out how vital manufacturing is in creating self-sufficiency and strengthening Florida's economy.  

In this special homecoming episode, SMPR President Heidi Otway is joined by Jennifer Conoley, former SMPR intern and now president and CEO of Florida's Great Northwest.  Jennifer shares her journey from studying Public Relations at Florida State University to becoming a self-taught economic developer, driven by her passion for creating diverse, high-wage jobs.  Tune in to learn about Jennifer's vision for promoting the region's thriving industries and how the Panhandle is more than its famous beaches but rather a hub of diverse job opportunities and economic potential.

SMPR Founder and CEO April Salter sits down with legendary sports broadcaster Gene Deckerhoff. Deckerhoff shares highlights of his decades-long career  calling electrifying Florida State Seminoles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers games and memorable moments with icons such as Coach Bobby Bowden and Burt Reynolds.   Deckerhoff also shares insights into the evolving media landscape, the challenges of breaking into the broadcast industry, and his personal experiences that shaped his career.    Tune in to hear Gene's inspiring stories and his thoughts on staying connected to community values while navigating the world of sports broadcasting.  

SMPR founder and CEO April Salter chats with Dick Batchelor, founder of Dick Batchelor Management Group. Dick shares his journey from citrus farming and activism during the Vietnam War to becoming one of the youngest members of the Florida House of Representatives.  He also gives listeners a glimpse into his latest book, Building Bridges in Toxic Political Times: A Road Map for Community Leaders, offering practical strategies for tackling grassroots issues.  

Children aren't just our future – they're also our present. That's why SMPR President Heidi Otway sat down to talk with Children's Forum President and CEO Erin Smeltzer, an advocate for quality early childhood education for young students across the country.   Inspired by her mother's impact as the first female first responder in her county, Erin knew she wanted to make a life-long difference in her community. But it wasn't until she discovered her passion for public policy and early learning that she found she could advocate for childhood education. After starting her career as a preschool educator, she quickly emerged as a passionate and successful leader in her field. Now, Erin has worked to advance educational opportunities for Florida's youngest for over a decade.     Join us for an inspiring conversation about finding your passion, the power of leadership, and the importance of early learning!

To mark Mental Health Awareness Month, SMPR CEO and Founder April Salter sat down with Florida Behavioral Health Association CEO and President Melanie Brown-Woofter to discuss her work in the mental health space.    Growing up in the tight-knit community of Wakulla County, caring for others was a way of life that seamlessly translated into her early career as a nurse. It was not until she entered the world of public policy that she learned she could positively impact millions of Floridians. At FBHA, she aims to reshape the dialogue around mental health and substance use disorders.  

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, SMPR President Heidi Otway sat down with Survive and Thrive Advocacy Center's Executive Director Robin Hassler Thompson to discuss her journey through politics and navigating her life as a human rights activist.    Thompson's political passion was ignited as a high school senior while volunteering for Jimmy Carter's presidential campaign. She shares how this initial spark led her to pursue a law degree and develop a love for public service. However, it wasn't until Thompson witnessed sex and labor trafficking in Bangladesh that her life changed forever. She returned to the States inspired to make a change.  

The 100th episode of the Fluent in Floridian podcast features none other than SalterMitchell PR CEO and Founder April Salter. From her idyllic upbringing in Key West to her dynamic career as an entrepreneur and PR professional, April's story is a testament to her love of the Sunshine State.  Tune into this special 100th episode as April discusses her influential role in Governor Lawton Chiles' administration and first encounter with a young journalist named Heidi Otway that led to a decades-long friendship and the establishment of SalterMitchell PR, which celebrates 25 years of business in 2024.

Josie Tamayo has never been afraid to be “the first.” Inspired by her mother's legal career in Cuba, Tamayo grew up in rural Georgia to become the only Hispanic woman to graduate from her law school class. Tamayo's passion for helping others drew her to a career in public service, where she charted a course from state attorneys' offices to the Second Circuit Court bench to serving as counsel for six of Florida's state agencies. Today, Tamayo's current role as CEO of VolunteerFlorida reflects her years of passionate community service: a pathway that she now gets to help others walk.

As social media emerged in the early 2000s, many top corporate executives and business leaders wrote it off as a passing trend. Frustrated by crisis management professionals' hesitancy to embrace digital communications, Melissa Agnes saw an opportunity to serve a developing industry. Nearly 15 years later. Agnes is a leading voice on all things crisis management and communications. She joins SalterMitchell PR Founder and CEO April Salter to share her story and discuss today's communications challenges.

Fluent in Floridian is going on summer break! So far this year, the podcast has featured some fascinating Floridians, from high-profile politicos to pro athletes. Use this time to catch up on episodes you may have missed, and stay tuned for the new season to begin later this summer.

When Kamaiu Johnson was spotted swinging a tree branch at golf balls that rolled astray near his grandmother's house, onlookers could see that the teen was a natural talent. Many masterful strokes later, Johnson is now one of the few black golfers at the professional level, and he's committed to making golf look “more like America.” Tune in as professional golfer Kamaiu Johnson joins SalterMitchell PR CEO + Founder April Salter to share stories from the fairway, and explain how the kindness of a stranger led him to pursue his passion.

From hurricanes to pandemics to refugee crises, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has led the state's response to countless disasters. FDEM Director Kevin Guthrie joins SalterMitchell PR CEO + Founder April Salter to share stories from the emergency operations center, and discuss his career trajectory from local law enforcement to leading statewide emergency management operations.

Yolanda Cash Jackson may be Florida Trend's latest Floridian of the Year, but the self-described “girl from Liberty City” has been making her mark as a lobbyist for over two decades. In her compelling conversation with SalterMitchell PR President and Partner Heidi Otway, Jackson shares her story of growing up in South Florida and pivoting to a lobbying career in her late twenties. They also discuss Jackson's notable achievements, such as spearheading the effort to install a sculpture of Mary McLeod Bethune — founder of Bethune-Cookman University — in Statuary Hall at the United States Capitol and securing record funding for Florida's four Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Harris Rosen has made a name for himself as Florida's largest independent hotelier. A self-made millionaire and savvy businessman, Rosen is president and COO of Rosen Hotels & Resorts. But, he would have never pursued a career in hospitality had it not been for a chance encounter with Marilyn Monroe as a child. In this fascinating conversation with SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway, Rosen shares the story of his life, from humble beginnings working banquets as a boy to growing his hospitality empire in Central Florida. They also discuss his notable philanthropic work, which includes early childhood education and cancer research initiatives as well as his storied ‘adoption' of the Tangelo Park neighborhood in Orlando.

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor joins SalterMitchell PR CEO April Salter to share how growing up in Tampa in the era of Title IX led her to become Tampa police chief and the first openly gay woman to serve as the city's mayor. Tune in to their conversation to hear Mayor Castor's perspective on what makes Tampa a world class city, the challenges it faces, and her goals for the future.

Florida Lottery Secretary John Davis joins SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway to discuss his journey from top-ranked high school recruit and star safety for the Florida State Seminoles to his current position leading the Florida Lottery. Tune in to their conversation to hear Secretary Davis share stories of leadership from both on and off the field.

Former Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn was elected to lead the City of Tampa out of the Great Recession. His vision has helped transform the city into a place where people want to live, work, play and invest. Buckhorn joins SalterMitchell PR CEO and Founder April Salter to discuss the roots of his political DNA, his storied career in Tampa, and why he believes mayors can make the biggest impact on a city.

Miami-Dade College President Madeline Pumariega has had a courtside seat to the growth of the country's largest public college. Listen to her conversation with SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway about the importance of basketball in her life, her journey to become a statewide leader in education, her former role as Chancellor of the Florida College System, and the vision she has for the future of Miami-Dade College.

In our newest episode of Fluent in Floridian, author and outdoorsman Jim McClellan joins SalterMitchell PR CEO April Salter to discuss his book, "Life Along the Apalachicola River," which depicts the Northwest Florida way of life he experienced growing up in the Apalachicola River Valley. Tune in as Jim and April recount the stories that shaped Jim's childhood and led to them working together for Governor Lawton Chiles' administration.

Poynter Institute President Neil Brown joins SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway to discuss the evolving role of media in our society, how Brown is helping to shape the next generation of journalists, and some of the head-scratching Florida stories that Brown has broken.

SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway is joined by award-winning agricultural and human rights activist Greg Asbed to discuss his work combatting forced labor in Florida's agriculture industry and around the globe.

SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway is joined by Florida Trend 500 Most Influential Leader and 2019-2021 Chair of the Florida Chamber of Commerce Charles “Charley” Caulkins. They discuss his childhood, his transition to Florida, his work as a nationally-recognized labor and employment lawyer, and the Sunshine State's business boom amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Orlando City Soccer Club Founder Kay Rawlins joins SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway to discuss her journey from U.K. bank clerk and daycare owner to female leader paving the way in the American soccer industry. 

In this episode of Fluent in Floridian, Sean Snaith, PhD joins Heidi Otway in a conversation that travels the globe. From America's Rust Belt to Cairo, Egypt, to Kingston, Jamaica and other stops in between, Dr. Snaith studied economies and taught across the U.S. and in foreign countries before calling the University of Central Florida […] The post 84. Award-Winning Economist & UCF Institute for Economic Forecasting Director Dr. Sean Snaith appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

Sean Snaith, PhD joins Heidi Otway in a conversation that travels the globe. From Cairo, Egypt, to Kingston, Jamaica and other stops in between, Dr. Snaith studied economies and taught across the U.S. and in foreign countries before calling the University of Central Florida home. Tune in as he takes us through his journey from humble beginnings in Pennsylvania to becoming an award-winning economist.

In this episode, SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway discusses all things energy with Florida Municipal Power Agency General Manager and CEO Jacob Williams, who leads FMPA’s efforts in advancing and improving the utilities industry. His agency serves more than 2 million residents and 10 percent of Florida’s power. In a state dubbed the Sunshine State, […] The post 83. Florida Municipal Power Agency General Manager & CEO Jacob Williams appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway discusses all things energy with Florida Municipal Power Agency General Manager and CEO Jacob Williams, who leads FMPA's efforts in advancing and improving the utilities industry. His agency serves more than 2 million residents and 10 percent of Florida's power. In a state dubbed the Sunshine State, that is no small undertaking.

SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway speaks with Florida Secretary of Commerce Jamal Sowell, a sixth-generation Floridian. During their conversation, he explains how his faith, family, and overseas military experience prepared him to serve as the state’s Florida Secretary of Commerce. FULL TRANSCRIPT Chris Cate: Welcome to the Fluent in Floridian podcast, featuring the Sunshine State’s […] The post 82. Florida Secretary of Commerce Jamal Sowell appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway speaks with Florida Secretary of Commerce Jamal Sowell, a sixth-generation Floridian. During their conversation, he explains how his faith, family, and overseas military experience prepared him to serve as the state's Florida Secretary of Commerce.

SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway and Dr. Cheryl Holder discuss her family’s journey from Jamaica to New York, her experience as a black female medical student and now physician, and her current roles at the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine and with the Florida Clinicians for Climate Action. FULL TRANSCRIPT Chris Cate: […] The post 81. FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Associate Professor Dr. Cheryl Holder appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway speaks with Dr. Cheryl Holder on her family's journey from Jamaica to New York, her decision to become a doctor and activist, and her current roles at the FlU College of Medicine, the Florida Clinicians for Climate Action and the Florida State Medical Association.

Florida Nonprofit Alliance Executive Director Sabeen Perwaiz has dedicated her life to helping others. In addition to her work in the nonprofit sector, she is also the founder and executive producer of TEDxJacksonville, where she’s amplifying the voices of other Floridians and positively impacting others.  FULL TRANSCRIPT Chris Cate: Welcome to the Fluent in Floridian […] The post 75. Florida Nonprofit Alliance Executive Director Sabeen Perwaiz appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

In this episode, Florida Society of Association Executives (FSAE) President and CEO Frank Rudd discusses how FSAE is continuing to support its members during COVID-19.  With more than 25 years of experience in the association industry, it’s no surprise Rudd was selected to lead FSAE. Since 2014, Rudd has helped teach other associations how to […] The post 74. Florida Society of Association Executives President and CEO Frank Rudd appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

Ed Moore spent 16 years shaping higher education in Florida as president of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida (ICUF). Moore recently retired from the position with a lasting impact.  In his conversation with SalterMitchell PR Founder + CEO April Salter, Moore details the changes ICUF made early on to expand online courses for […] The post 73. Former President of Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida Ed Moore appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

Jeanette Nuñez is not only the 20th Lieutenant Governor of Florida, she’s also the state’s first female Cuban-American to hold the title, a mother of three, and a daughter of immigrants. She describes the start of her career in politics as somewhat of a fluke, but nonetheless has had quite a successful run, having previously […] The post 80. Florida Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

In our 80th episode of #FluentinFloridian, SalterMitchell PR CEO April Salter and Lieutenant Governor Nuñez discuss her South Florida upbringing, her education at Florida International University, and life outside of the office. Nuñez's love for the Sunshine State and its people display what it truly means to be fluent in Floridian. 

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida President and CEO Dave Krepcho wasn’t always in the food banking business. The native Canadian was formerly in advertising before moving to South Florida. Krepcho got involved as a volunteer at a local food bank in Miami and found his calling. His previous work for Feed America led […] The post 79. Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida President & CEO Dave Krepcho appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida President and CEO Dave Krepcho wasn't always in the food banking business. The native Canadian was formerly in advertising before moving to South Florida. Krepcho got involved as a volunteer at a local food bank in Miami and found his calling. His previous work for Feed America led him to his position with Second Harvest, where thousands of Central Floridians have been fed and employed thanks to his leadership.

The Children’s Movement of Florida Chairman David Lawrence Jr. is a lifelong advocate of children’s education and has proven to be an outstanding ally to kids across Florida. In his conversation with SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway, Lawrence discusses racism and discrimination in education and how we can confront them. He also discusses the importance […] The post 76. The Children’s Movement of Florida Chairman David Lawrence Jr. appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

New Yorker turned Floridian, Council for Educational Change Executive Director Dr. Elaine Liftin got her start as a singer on Broadway. While attending Hunter College, she became intrigued by the challenge of education and, upon graduating, began her teaching career in South Florida. Dr. Liftin has dedicated her career to education advocacy and believes “if […] The post 78. Council for Educational Change President & Executive Director Dr. Elaine Liftin appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

New Yorker turned Floridian, Council for Educational Change Executive Director Dr. Elaine Liftin got her start as a singer on Broadway. While attending Hunter College, she became intrigued by the challenge of education and, upon graduating, began her teaching career in South Florida. Dr. Liftin has dedicated her career to education advocacy and believes “if every child can get a quality education, every child can succeed.”

An Orlando resident since she was eight years old, League of Women Voters Florida President Patti Brigham began her career as a public servant working in suicide prevention and crisis intervention. After graduating from the University of Central Florida, Patti went on to become a radio DJ, journalist, thespian, and eventually, a member of the […] The post 77. League of Women Voters of Florida President Patti Brigham appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

An Orlando resident since she was eight years old, League of Women Voters Florida President Patti Brigham began her career as a public servant working in suicide prevention and crisis intervention. After graduating from the University of Central Florida, Patti went on to become a radio DJ, journalist, thespian, and eventually, a member of the League of Women Voters Florida. Now, as president of the League, Patti is learning how to navigate the upcoming presidential election in a COVID-19 world. Through a strong vote-by-mail campaign, the League is debunking myths and preparing citizens to vote safely and at a distance, if they so choose.

The Children’s Movement of Florida Chairman David Lawrence Jr. is a lifelong advocate of children’s education and has proven to be an outstanding ally to kids across Florida. In his conversation with SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway, Lawrence discusses racism and discrimination in education and how we can confront them. He also discusses the importance […] The post 76. The Children’s Movement of Florida Chairman David Lawrence Jr. appeared first on Fluent in Floridian.

The Children's Movement of Florida Chairman David Lawrence Jr. is a lifelong advocate of children's education and has proven to be an outstanding ally to kids across Florida. In his conversation with SalterMitchell PR President Heidi Otway, Lawrence discusses racism and discrimination in education and how we can confront them. He also discusses the importance of reading and how books can be a great tool for all people.