In this episode of Elevate Charlotte, Mark Odell and Maria Vastola explore how businesses are planning for growth in an environment defined by uncertainty. From shifting supply chains and changing cost structures to workforce availability and long-term site selection decisions, the conversation focuses on how companies are adapting without overreacting.

Rather than predicting policy outcomes, this episode examines how flexibility, resilience, and strong fundamentals are shaping modern growth strategies—and what communities can do to remain competitive as conditions continue to evolve.

This episode dives into the real, unfiltered conversations from the FGCU Regional Workforce Roundtable. Powered by Elevate Charlotte, the discussion covers bold new strategies in data-driven education, work-based learning, early childhood readiness, adult workforce access, and regional collaboration. These five takeaways aren’t just ideas — they’re action plans for transforming how Southwest Florida grows, trains, and retains its talent.

In this special edition of the Cleared for Takeoff Podcast, Charlotte County business and education leaders come together for a powerful conversation on growth, innovation, and opportunity.Hosted by Kay Tracy, Director of the Charlotte County Economic Development Office, this live panel features insights from Dr. Eileen DeLuca (FGCU), Michael Ehrat (HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital), Mark Vianello (Charlotte County Public Schools), and Dr. Chris Westley (FGCU Lutgert College of Business).Together, they discuss the four pillars driving Charlotte County Workforce Development — education alignment, healthcare resilience, innovation, and quality of life — and how collaboration is shaping the region’s next chapter.

Charlotte County Jazz Society at the Heart of Elevate Charlotte

Charlotte County, Florida is a place where creativity, community, and business meet. In the first episode of Elevate Charlotte – Behind the Business, listeners were introduced to Jordan Aquila, President of the Charlotte County Jazz Society and leader of Buffalo Graphics. The conversation explored more than just business—it highlighted the passion behind local arts, the value of community support, and the future of cultural growth in the region.

The Charlotte County Jazz Society stands out as both a nonprofit and a cultural driver. It doesn’t just host concerts; it creates scholarships, connects generations, and fosters a love for music that extends beyond jazz. This podcast episode revealed how one organization continues to make a big impact while showing why Charlotte County is such a special place to live, work, and create.

In this episode of Elevate Charlotte , we sit down with Jordan, Charlotte County’s Economic Development Specialist. Jordan shares insights on how data, property analysis, and developer support play a vital role in shaping the county’s growth. From helping site selectors find the right locations to guiding projects that strengthen our economy, this conversation highlights the behind-the-scenes work driving Charlotte County’s future.

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Brian Granstra, Director of Career and Technical Education, and Kay Tracy, Director of the Charlotte County Economic Development Office, to discuss the intersection of education and economic development in Charlotte County. Discover how their unified approach is creating a talent pipeline for high-paying jobs, benefiting students and businesses alike. Learn about the unique Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offered, the importance of aligning educational programs with economic needs, and how this collaboration is attracting new businesses to the area.

Explore the success stories of students landing significant roles and the community's involvement in growing and adapting to workforce demands. Dr. Granstra and Kay Tracy share insights into how businesses can partner with schools, the importance of career exploration from middle school, and the strategic initiatives that position Charlotte County as a leader in workforce development. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in educational innovation and regional economic advancement.

New Podcast Episode Drop: Hurricane Preparedness—Business Edition

What’s your plan when the next storm hits?

In our latest Elevate Charlotte episode, host Maria Vastola brings together voices from SBDC at FGCU, Charlotte County Emergency Management, Florida Commerce, CareerSource SWFL, United Way, and local chambers to talk about hurricane readiness—and why it’s a team effort.

From emergency loans to workforce recovery and community coordination, this episode is packed with real strategies and resources your business can act on today.

🎧 Listen now: [Insert link to podcast or cleared4takeoff.com podcast page]

📍 Learn how to protect your team, your business, and your future.

#Cleared4Takeoff #ChooseCharlotteFL #DisasterPreparedness #HurricaneSeason #BusinessResilience #CharlotteCountyFL #EmergencyManagement #ElevateCharlotte

Florida isn’t just planning for the future of work—it’s building it now. In this solo episode of Elevate Charlotte, Maria Vastola shares key takeaways from the 2025 Learners to Earners Workforce Summit hosted by the Florida Chamber Foundation. From third-grade literacy to stackable credentials, from childcare access to AI-driven job forecasting, discover how Florida is flipping the script on workforce development—and what it means for the future of Charlotte County.