Standing In The Gap

This "Best Of" episode showcases powerful stories and actionable solutions that address challenges in education and mental health. From breaking barriers to college access and expanding scholarship opportunities to equipping youth with tools for empowerment, these SPC guests provide invaluable insights and strategies for driving change. The episode also features Ryan Quattlebaum’s inspiring perspe...

What does it take to lead with purpose and passion? In this inspiring conversation, we uncover how a career grounded in service and love for community transformed a CPA into a nonprofit CEO. From navigating law and accounting to finding her heart in advocacy for children, our guest shares invaluable advice for aspiring leaders, including the importance of pacing yourself and putting purpose first....

In this special "Best Of" episode, delve into how St. Petersburg College faculty and guests embody the essence of a TRUE LEADER by empowering their communities and extending support to those in need. From addressing education barriers to empowering mental health solutions, let’s reflect on important moments that inspire, take action, and showcase resilience. With insights on collaboration and stra...

In this thought-provoking segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams talks with Mike Sutton, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, about finding purpose in the nonprofit world. Mike shares insights into balancing personal fulfillment and financial realities, dispelling myths around nonprofit salaries, and why he remains dedicated to Habitat’s mission. They discuss Habitat’s focus on s...

How do educators bridge the gap between students' potential and their reality? In this episode, we sit down with an inspiring group of faculty from St. Petersburg College to explore the profound impact educators can have on their students' lives. Joining this conversation are: Susan Demers – Dean of Public Policy, Public Safety, Ethics, and Legal Studies Raquel Hairston – Principal of St. Petersbu...

What happened to the strong sense of community we once had? In this heartfelt discussion, we explore the values of gratitude, giving back, and fostering trust with our neighbors. From lessons learned in childhood to the challenges of modern life, this segment examines how we can rebuild the bonds of community and support one another in meaningful ways. Listen to the full episode here Apple Podcast...

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dr. Ernest McDonald to explore the themes of leadership, decision-making, and overcoming fear and inadequacy. Dr. McDonald shares his remarkable journey from dropping out of school in sixth grade to earning a doctorate in pharmacy and becoming a Clinical Pharmacist at Largo Medical Center. Through honest reflections, he discusses the ch...

In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams and Joshua Bomstein, President of Creative Contractors Inc., dive into the "war for talent" in the competitive real estate and construction market. They discuss the challenges of finding skilled workers, the importance of career and technical education, and how the construction industry offers rewarding, impactful careers. Discover what makes construction a via...

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Beth Houghton, CEO of the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County (JWB), for an eye-opening discussion about supporting children and families. Beth shares JWB’s mission to create brighter futures by focusing on critical areas like early childhood development, mental health, and family well-being. From the astonishing fact that 80% of brain deve...

Why Girl Scouts? In this segment, we explore the unique power of Girl Scouts to create a supportive, non-competitive environment where girls can thrive. From building resilience and embracing uncertainty to fostering respectful disagreements and mental well-being, we discuss how Girl Scouts prepares girls to lead with empathy, curiosity, and confidence in today’s complex world. Listen to the full...

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Mike Sutton, the President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties to discuss the non-profit organization’s impactful work.  Mike shares how Habitat for Humanity's mission goes beyond simply building homes — delving into its holistic approach to empowering families through affordable homeownership. He explains how Habi...

In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Braulio Colón, Executive Director of the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), to discuss the pressing issues and innovative solutions in Florida's education system. Colón sheds light on the persistent gaps in access and achievement for Black students and emphasizes the need for targeted, data-driven strategies to address these disparities. The...

In this powerful episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with The Honorable Patrice Moore, the first African American female judge in Florida's Sixth Circuit. Judge Moore opens up about her inspiring journey from aspiring electrical engineer to becoming a respected judge. She shares the challenges of law school, the moments that shaped her career, and the unwavering faith that carried her through i...

In this insightful segment, Ryan Quattlebaum discusses how Advent Health is embracing emerging technologies in healthcare. He shares the innovative ways technology is being integrated into patient care, from AI-enhanced tools to robotic surgery, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between technology and human connection. Ryan illustrates how partnering cutting-edge technology...

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams engages with Joshua Bomstein, the President of Creative Contractors Inc., for a thought-provoking conversation about leadership, organizational culture, and the significance of community engagement. Josh shares his inspiring journey from Dunedin, Florida, discussing how his parents instilled in him a commitment to giving back to the community. He reflects on hi...

In this segment, we delve into St. Petersburg College's leading role in workforce development and economic mobility. Join Dr. Tonjua Williams and the SPC faculty as they discuss the college’s initiatives to bridge the gap between education and career success. They explore the college's partnerships with industry leaders like Bank of America, which have led to high job placement rates and innovativ...

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Mary Pat King, CEO of Girl Scouts of West Central Florida, to explore the profound and lasting impact of Girl Scouts on young girls’ lives. Together, they delve into how the organization fosters confidence, leadership, and essential life skills, empowering girls to reach their fullest potential. From the entrepreneurial lessons of the iconic Girl...

In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dawn Joyce, a communications professor at SPC, to explore the integration of emerging technologies like ChatGPT and AI in writing instruction. Dawn addresses the challenges faced by adult learners, emphasizing the importance of understanding and utilizing these tools responsibly. Through engaging analogies and practical advice, she highlights how...

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Braulio Colón, Executive Director of the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), for a powerful discussion on education, equity, and economic growth. FCAN is dedicated to achieving Florida's ambitious goal of ensuring that 60% of adults hold high-quality degrees, credentials, or training by 2030. Under Braulio's leadership, the organization is at...

In this segment, Gary Hartfield delves into the inevitability of failure and adversity in leadership and entrepreneurship. He shares personal anecdotes and powerful stories, including the challenges faced by Pastor TD Jakes, to illustrate how resilience and faith can help overcome setbacks. Gary emphasizes the importance of enduring trials as a necessary component of success and leadership. Listen...

Today, your host Dr. Tonjua Williams, President of St. Petersburg College, sits down with Ryan Quattlebaum, President and CEO of AdventHealth - North Pinellas, to explore his remarkable journey from dishwasher to healthcare leader.  As Ryan recounts his evolution from early career challenges to his current role, he sheds light on the steadfast commitment of AdventHealth's team to upholding excepti...

In this powerful segment, Stan Liberatore, CEO of No Limit Technology and founder of Save The Kids Foundation, shares his emotional journey into philanthropy. Motivated by personal loss and the advice of a mentor, Stan shares the inception of Save The Kids Foundation and its mission to combat pediatric cancer. He details the impactful work of the foundation, including the funding of groundbreaking...

Welcome to a special compilation episode of Standing In The Gap with Dr. Tonjua Williams, President of Saint Petersburg College. In this episode, we bring you insights and wisdom from the faculty and staff of SPC, focusing on workforce development, legislation, and bridging the gaps in our community. Through interviews with policymakers, educators, and community leaders, we delve into the strategi...

In this insightful segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Zaneta Ellison, a distinguished licensed mental health counselor, certified life coach, author, and public speaker, to discuss the importance of building emotional intelligence and self-awareness in children, providing them with the tools and strategies needed to manage their mental and emotional health. She emphasizes the significance...

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dawn Joyce, an esteemed English Professor at SPC Clearwater campus, to delve into effective teaching strategies for diverse learners. Dawn shares her journey to becoming an educator and the innovative methods she employs to engage her students meaningfully. Dr. Williams and Dawn discuss the critical role of understanding each student's unique bac...