SRQ Magazine | Strong Women of the Region, October 2022

PHOTOS BY WYATT KOSTYGAN + WES ROBERTS.

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

IT HAS BEEN MY PRIVILEGE TO WORK exclusively in Dermatology since the start of my career. Early on I developed a passion for cosmetic dermatology and entrepreneurship. I believe there is truly an art and a science to aesthetics. In this fi eld, I am able to be both creative and artful, as well as technical and medical. I have over 10 years of experience as an aesthetic injector and absolutely love what I do.

As an entrepreneur, I have grown the cosmetic division of Arsenault Dermatology, expanding to create a stand-alone company, Glow Dermspa. As the Director, I lead an amazing team of MDs, PAs, aestheticians, and staff who daily seek to build meaningful relationships, curate memorable experiences, and deliver exceptional natural-looking results, with kindness, care, and a commitment to excellence. I oversee the clinical operations, marketing, recruiting, and training to maintain a creative, quality culture.

Everyday I’m thankful for the opportunity to help patients see, enhance, and become more confident in their natural beauty.

GLOW DERMSPA is a luxury aesthetic clinic for women and men, located in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. Created by the skincare experts at Arsenault Dermatology, we combine world-class aesthetic services with a concierge-style level of personal care and attention. Clients experience luxurious skincare treatments delivered by highly-skilled skin professionals, using innovative anti-aging and beauty-enhancing techniques. We offer a complete menu of cosmetic services including aesthetics, Botox®, injectable facial fillers (i.e., Juvéderm and Restylane), threads, laser resurfacing, pigment and vascular laser devices, fat destroying treatments, chest and neck rejuvenation, and platelet-rich plasma (PRF) therapy for both facial rejuvenation and hair loss.

GLOW DERMSPA BY ARSENAULT DERMATOLOGY

9023 Town Center Parkway, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-264-1161 | glowdermspa.com @glowdermspa

MELISSA BEACHY , MMSC, PA-C DIRECTOR OF GLOW DERMSPA, MASTER INJECTOR, DERMATOLOGY PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

"My approach to aesthetics is ‘I want everyone to notice, but no one to know’."

MICHELLE LAJOIE HERMEY , SHAREHOLDER FERGESON SKIPPER, P.A.

"Michelle is that rare lawyer who combines a laser focus on the details of a transaction with the warmth and understanding of a trusted family advisor. I've worked closely with Michelle on an almost daily basis for 25 years and I could not ask for a better colleague." — Richard R. Gans, President of Fergeson Skipper, P.A.

A BOARD-CERTIFIED REAL ESTATE LAWYER and shareholder with the Sarasota-based law firm of Fergeson Skipper, P.A., Michelle Lajoie Hermey brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her clients based on an extensive educational background. Prior to becoming an attorney, Ms. Hermey served as a Certified Real Estate Paralegal with the firm.

Ms. Hermey graduated with honors from the University of Maine. She then went on to attend Stetson University College of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctorate in 2006 and was recognized with the William F. Blews Pro Bono Service award.

Admitted to the Florida Bar in 2007, Ms. Hermey became a board-certified real estate lawyer in 2013. She is licensed to practice before the Middle District Court of Florida and all local and State Courts in Florida. Ms. Hermey’s Bar Association memberships include The Florida Bar and Sarasota County Bar Association. Additionally, she is a member of the Bay Area Real Estate Council, the Real Property, Probate and Trust Section of the Florida Bar, Attorney’s Title Insurance Fund, Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, and BNI Core Connections.

Ms. Hermey is a past chair of the Sarasota Realtor-Attorney Joint Committee, past chair of the Sarasota County Bar Association Real Property Section and past vice president of BNI Core Connections. In 2021, Ms. Hermey was included in SRQ Magazine’s Elite Top Real Estate Attorneys.

When it comes to real estate law, Michelle Lajoie Hermey is one in a million.

FERGESON SKIPPER, P.A.

Named a 2022 “Best Law Firm”

by U.S. News – Best Lawyers

Tier 1 Sarasota: Tax, Trusts & Estates Law;

Tier 2 Sarasota: Litigation, Trusts & Estates FergesonSkipper.com 941-957-1900

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

WOMEN OF THE REGION

JENNIFER LEE

MY 52-YEAR JOURNEY AS A FINANCIAL ADVISOR has been met with much self-motivation, humbling successes and failures, opportunities to lift others, personal growth, all to develop and harness my best self. Living life with intentionality and encouraging others to do the same—whether it’s taking that once in a lifetime trip, pursuing a new career endeavor, or going back to school (all financially pre-approved, of course)—is a great strength of mine. My most important accomplishment is nurturing the persona of Aunt Jenn or AJ. Making a deep connection to another human being, especially a child is tremendously rewarding and powerful. There has not been a role more important in my life. My beautiful nieces and nephews have been a long-time objective; be there, listen, encourage, comfort, stretch, teach, grow, hug, play games, cook, create, and become that resource, that trusted adult, and fun aunt.

As a financial advisor, I try to apply this philosophy to my work. For me, it’s about encouraging women to take financial control, acting as an advocate for women in financial transition—whether it be helping through a divorce, navigating an inheritance, retirement, or selling a business—being a sounding board through life’s most challenging moments, and truly being a resource to help guide them to the next level of their journey.

I’ve found that many women can be unsure of where to start on their financial planning journey. To me, financial planning is not that complicated. What do you have? And what do you want? My first book, Squeeze the Juice: Live with Purpose, then Leave a Legacy is a risk-free interview with me; a look behind the curtain. It’s a two-hour read, and you will know if we are a good fit. Only then can you truly consider coming on this journey to financial freedom with an advocate. It all comes back to creating a life with intention. Will you take this journey?

MODERN-WEALTH is a financial advisory firm dedicated to working with individuals, often focusing on women, in financial transition. I have found that a relationship with an advisor is most critical at the intersections in life where emotions collide with financial events. Whether you are experiencing divorce, a business client expanding or selling your operation, navigating an inheritance, retirement, or a couple wanting to make sure they have provided for their family, Modern-Wealth may be a fit. We are about building long-lasting relationships, digging deep to understand what drives clients, and encouraging clients to communicate their most important wants and needs to their loved ones.

MODERN-WEALTH

6710 Professional Parkway, Suite 201B Sarasota, FL 34240 | 941-251-0510 modern-wealth.com/

CEO, FOUNDER, MODERN WEALTH

"Do something today that your future self will thank you for."

WHO ROAR NOMINEE |

LISA MOORE CEO+FOUNDER, BLAZE OF HOPE

MY SWEET SON BLAZE WAS DIAGNOSED with liver cancer at 7 months old. This was the hardest time of my life by far. I had to take a leave from my job because he was so sick and we spent most of our time in the hospital. Blaze endured aggressive chemotherapy and multiple surgeries. Sadly, Blaze passed away at 13 months old. During this time, I was able to stay with my baby boy, able to be a mom, able to sleep in the hospital bed with him nightly, not missing a precious moment of time with him. My community banned together to ensure provisions for my son and I were met. Donations were made, fundraisers were held, even jars collecting funds were placed on counters of convenience stores. The compassion, love, support, and prayers gave me hope in my greatest time of need. While at the hospital, I saw other families desperately in need of hope of their own. Not only were they struggling with the unexplainable sadness and pain involved, but they were also struggling to meet their personal financial responsibilities. These people chose their child instead of their mortgage payment; a choice no parent should have to make. This experience has driven my whole life from that point forward. What motivates me is my dedication to honor my son by showing the same love, compassion, and grace for others as I once received. I created "Blaze of Hope" a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to families of hospitalized children. We have an army of volunteers that spend their time raising awareness and building community through our numerous events and fundraisers. Every day I am thankful for another opportunity to spread HOPE like fire. “Chin up, Chest out, and Smile.” MY SECRET SAUCE Be love, Give love, Spread Love MISSION Blaze of Hope provides financial assistance to families of hospitalized children with life-threatening medical conditions, raises awareness, builds community, and enriches lives with HOPE!

BLAZE OF HOPE

501c3 Non-Profit Lisa Moore CEO/Founder blazeofhope.org 941-232-4568

" Together we can spread hope like fire!"

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

HALLIE PEILET DIRECTOR OF MISSION ENGAGEMENT, THE HAVEN

HALLIE PEILET JOINED THE HAVEN IN SPRING OF 2022. Her role includes communications and development initiatives. Prior to joining The Haven as the Director of Mission Engagement, Peilet spent four years at SNN, where she started as a general assignment reporter, filming, editing, and writing all of her own content. Peilet interviewed local Holocaust survivors for her special series, “They Lived: Suncoast Survivors of the Holocaust,” for which she received an Emmy nomination and Telly Award. She also went into the operating room to follow the journey of a man’s fight with Parkinson’s disease, filming his brain surgery. She later won a Telly Award for her series, “Inside PJ’s Brain.”

Peilet is also no stranger to Sarasota philanthropy. In 2018, she competed in CANDance, a fundraiser for CAN Community Health. During her months training with her dance partner and fundraising, Peilet produced and anchored several segments to educate the community on the nonprofit, in efforts to eradicate any stigma associated with HIV. She raised $14,000 for the nonprofit through her efforts.

Peilet first came across The Haven in June 2017, when she did a news segment there for the first time. She knew there was something special about it, and she connected with President & CEO Brad Jones to make sure she never missed a chance to cover any stories at The Haven.

Peilet uses her video and storytelling background to share stories of The Haven’s clients, students, residents and their families. She also spearheads fundraising campaigns, including The Haven’s Holiday Hope campaign, which resulted in $122,000 of unrestricted fundraising dollars in December alone.

THE HAVEN 4405 Desoto Road Sarasota, FL 34235 941-355-8808

“People with disabilities see the world through such a pure lens, and it gives me personal perspective as to how grateful I am to be around them. Professionally, it’s easy to want to work hard because my success is their success."

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

JESSICA ROGERS

VP OF PHILANTHROPY, CHILDREN FIRST

PERSONAL “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."

—Jane Goodall. DAILY LIFE “Never underestimate yourself. Who is going to stop you?”

PROFESSIONAL “Looking ahead is important. It helps you determine your steps now to get there."

JESSICA ROGERS BELIEVES ACCESS TO OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL IS THE BASE FOR BUILDING A STRONG COMMUNITY. This belief has transformed her passion for helping women, children, and families into a professional career focused on the well-being of humankind. As a mother, she raises her daughter the way that her mother taught her, to strive to make a difference in the lives of those within her community.

With nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, finance and education, Jessica Rogers serves as Vice President of Philanthropy at Children First, Sarasota County’s exclusive Head Start Program, which ranks in the top 1% of Head Starts nationwide. She represents the agency in advocating for the support of early childhood education and breaking barriers of poverty. During her tenure, she has transformed fundraising and outreach efforts allowing the agency to serve the greatest number of children and families in its 61-year history and being named WEDU PBS’s Nonprofit of the Year. Rogers’ volunteer and philanthropic engagement is wide ranging. She serves on Sarasota County NAACP's Freedom Fund Awards Gala committee and is a former board director for the Junior League of Sarasota, having received their 2020 Sustainer Community Service Award.Jessica is a member of the National Council of Jewish Women Sarasota-Manatee chapter, the USF Tampa Digital Marketing Certificate Program Steering Committee, and past Troop Co-Leader for the Girl Scouts of Southwest Florida. She is a proud graduate of both the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Executive Academy, and the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership program where she currently serves on their Leadership Alumni Committee.

CHILDREN FIRST

1723 North Orange Ave. Sarasota, FL 941-953-3877

Childrenfirst.net

WOMEN OF THE REGION

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

KAY YODER DIRECTOR OF US OPERATIONS, RIPPLE AFRICA

THERE’S A SAYING ”You can’t never always sometimes tell.” That sums up perfectly the unpredictability of life. Twenty-one years ago, I never could have envisioned that a family move to Florida for my 11-year-old daughter to pursue her dream of a tennis career, would lead to an involvement with a notfor-profit in Malawi, Africa, that would capture my heart and give it such meaning. Our time living at IMG Academy was an incredibly rich cultural experience—exposing our family to a diverse group of people from all over the world. It was there that we became fast friends with a family from Malawi, who enlightened us about the country and its tremendous needs. After a serious back injury derailed my daughter’s tennis dreams, she decided to raise money for an orphanage in Malawi and traveled there to volunteer during a summer break. That invaluable experience not only changed her life but mine as well. Upon her return, we researched ways in which we could make a difference and looked for an on-the-ground partner with a proven track record. One organization—Ripple Africa—stood out above all the rest because of its emphasis on ‘providing a hand out and not a hand up’ and range of projects addressing the educational, healthcare, and environmental obstacles facing the Malawian people.

After years of a successful partnership, we officially merged in 2013, becoming Ripple Africa, Inc. here in the US. My daughter continued onto a profession in medicine and is now an OB/GYN practicing in Colorado. I oversee the American side of operations and love nothing more than taking others to Malawi so they can meet the incredibly warm and welcoming Malawian people and witness the many ways in which Ripple Africa is providing opportunities for them to lift themselves out of poverty.

ABOUT RIPPLE AFRICA Malawi is a tiny, densely populated country located in Southeastern Africa, and ranks as one of the poorest nations in the world. Eighty-five percent of the population lives in rural areas and its rising population is putting tremendous pressure on the country’s natural resources. Ripple Africa, an NGO located in northern Malawi, operates by empowering communities to achieve a sustainable future, believing that the local people can be the solution to many of the challenges they face. In response to needs identified by the community, the organization runs large scale environmental projects, in addition to smaller scale education and healthcare initiatives in and around its base.

RIPPLE AFRICA 6979 74th Street Circle East, Bradenton, FL 941-782-7956 | rippleafricausa.org

— Arthur Ashe

WOMEN WHO

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

SHARON CAROLE

I AM AN ENTREPRENEUR WHO OWNS multiple businesses and properties in Sarasota. I co-created The Realm Restaurant Group with my partner, Chef Christopher Covelli, and together we own and operate Sage Restaurant and Bijou Garden Café. I am known for saving old buildings and turning them into fine dining establishments. I’ve renovated and redesigned the Sage and Bijou buildings, and I am currently working on restoring two other locations to bring more restaurants and venues to Sarasota. I am an outspoken ally to the LGBTQ+ community, and a founding member of Project Pride SRQ, as well as a board member of Equality Florida and a recipient of the 2021 Voice for Equality award.

I love improving things. When I see something wrong or neglected I want to make it right. When I bought Sage and Bijou my goal was to preserve the buildings, but once I got inside I realized that with a little work I could make them so much nicer. I do a lot with the LGBTQ+ community because I feel like this is another area where I can help to make a difference and maybe make the world a little better. I've witnessed a lot of injustice and inequality. As a child, I was raised around prejudice and misogyny which not only led me to become a voice for equality but also motivated me to create a world where I could freely express myself. MY SECRET SAUCE Follow my passion. If I don't love what I'm doing then I'm not on the right path. Every day I am thankful for my beautiful children, supportive friends, and this incredible life I'm living. YOUR OUTLOOK IN SIX WORDS. Be kind; have fun; be grateful.

THE REALM RESTAURANT GROUP

129 N.Pineapple Ave., Sarasota FL 34236 941-667-6677 | RealmRestaurants.com

CEO/PRESIDENT, REALM RESTAURANT GROUP

“Life is a rollercoaster; for every down, there's an up so just hang on and enjoy the ride "

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

JAIME MARCO

EVOLVE BUSINESS CONSULTING / WHEN SHE HAPPENS

I HAVE BEEN TOLD MY SUPERPOWER is the dedication to helping others grow and develop. When I started my business, it was powered by the belief that I could help inspire others to create a positive change in their world. I am honored to create opportunities of change every day through my works as business coach, ambassador of connection and philanthropic supporter. Whether it’s mentoring others at work, networking, or with philanthropy, it is with great pride that I can give back to organizations in this community as much as the community has given to me. SECRET SAUCE Well, now if I shared that, it wouldn't be so secret anymore, now would it. Honestly though, I consider my secret fuel to be the power of the work I do and the results. I am continually inspired by handwritten thank you notes from clients that I keep prominently displayed in my office. I see these every day and they continue to fill my cup with the secret sauce.

EVOLVE BUSINESS CONSULTING / WHEN SHE HAPPENS 11161 E. State Road 70, #323, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 | 941-777-4930 | Evolvethebusiness.com / WhenSheHappens.com | Facebook: Evolve Business Consulting / When She Happens | Instagram: @evolve_the_business / @whenshehappens

"Always stay humble and kind."

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

DEBBIE LAPINSKA

CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER, PGT INNOVATIONS

PART OF MY SUCCESS STEMS from the experience growing up Asian in Chicago and dealing with being different, not looking like the other kids, and all the challenges that came with that. I was shy, intimidated, and self-conscious. I always remember that experience when approaching people in personal and business relationships, and it pushes me to go to bat for those who don’t have the strength to speak up for themselves. Also, when I see people who don’t have a lot to give, yet give of themselves every day, it further inspires me to make a positive impact on others. MY SECRET SAUCE I’d say my secret sauce is compassion for others. Sometimes it physically pains me to see someone struggling. I love to get to know people for who they are and appreciate and celebrate their unique strengths. If I can help people recognize the strength in themselves and give them the courage to speak up and be seen and be heard, it motivates me, in turn. EVERY DAY I AM THANKFUL FOR . . . MY FAITH THAT GIVES ME STRENGTH AND KEEPS ME GROUNDED, AND I’M THANKFUL FOR MY FAMILY.

PGT INNOVATIONS

1070 Technology Drive, N. Venice, FL 34275 | 941-480-1600

• pgtinnovations.com | linkedin.com/in/debbie-lapinska-b4500414

"The words and actions we use, have a direct impact on the results we get."

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

NATASHA SELVARAJ, ESQ BERLIN PATTEN EBLING

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

LAURA RODE

WHEN MEETING IN PERSON WASN'T AN OPTION I adapted to doing more virtually. As things continued to change and evolve over the last couple of years, I had to be much more flexible and pliable. My biggest strength is being a problem solver and working well under pressure. I have found that even in stressful situations, I can step back, look for solutions to the issue at hand, and encourage other team members to work together and focus on accomplishing our goals. MY SECRET SAUCE The people that I work with! In my professional life, I’m very fortunate to be surrounded by so many phenomenal legal professionals, from our attorneys to our staff. Everyone at Berlin Patten Ebling is always striving to provide the best experience possible for our clients, which helps us stand out. Every day I am thankful for my friends and family, who have supported me and encouraged me to try new things and pursue my goals. Especially my husband, Warren, my biggest supporter, and for my law partners who allowed me to be part of the best team!

BERLIN PATTEN EBLING 3700 S Tamiami Trail #200, Sarasota, FL 34239 | 941- 954-9991

I BEGAN MY CAREER IN REAL ESTATE IN 2014. I was a new mom hungry to build a good life for myself and my family. I can remember showing property with my son in a baby carrier on my back, for about 3 years. In 2018 my husband Matt joined me in real estate and we both jumped in full-time and began to build a team. We started by developing systems and processes geared towards delivering the highest quality of service to our clients. There were many hours of coaching, several real estate conventions a year and a huge sacrifice on our family time in order to achieve this. These systems and processes, once developed, attracted many sales associates to our team and we grew rapidly from a team of 3 into a multi-million dollar real estate company and a team of 24, in just 4 years. In 2021 our team was named the #1 Keller Williams Team in Sarasota and Manatee County and #2 in the entire North Florida region. In 2022 we launched our agent mentor program allowing our top producing agents the ability to grow as leaders while supporting others in the industry. In 2023 we plan to launch our own charity focusing on providing life and business coaching to young adults in the Sarasota area.

SARASOTA GULF COAST HOMES WITH KELLER WILLIAMS

ON THE WATER SARASOTA 1549 Ringling Blvd. Floor 6, Sarasota, FL 34236

941 724 9957 | Laura.Rode@kw.com | sarasotagulfcoastrealtors.com

Instagram: SarasotaGulfCoastHomes | Facebook: SarasotaGulfCoastHomes

"Always try to be better than the person you were yesterday!” "

CEO/BROKER ASSOCAITE, SARASOTA GULF COAST HOMES WITH KELLER WILLIAMS ON THE WATER SARASOTA

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE

"Growth is not automatic; it has to be intentional . . . it is not guaranteed. You have to know what ways you want to grow and then take action to make it happen. "

STRONG WOMEN OF THE REGION

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

VILIA DRAGOVOY

CENTER FOR REVITALIZING PSYCHIATRY

"I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."

MY FAMILY EMIGRATED FROM UKRAINE in 1992 with 2 suitcases and a hope for a better life. It was my parents’ will and determination that taught me to work hard for what I want and not be afraid of taking risks. Especially the resilience of my mom, Dr. Marina Tourkova, who opened the Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry (CRP) almost 20 years ago, inspired me to leave the pharmaceutical industry and join my sister Alina Nagdimunov in taking CRP to the next level. We strive to advance mental health beyond its conventional parameters, and help those who also find themselves navigating new waters, such as a psychological trauma, life in the pandemic, or finding balance in life. Every day I am thankful for . . . my family, who gives me support in both personal and professional endeavors, strength to get through most difficult situations, motivates me to move forward, and inspires me to be better and stronger with every step I make.

CENTER OF REVITALIZING PSYCHIATRY 2033 Wood St. Suite 220, Sarasota, Florida 34237 941-677-3366 | revitalizingpsychiatry.com | facebook.com/FLCRP | We Will Revitalize Your Mind!

WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINEE | 2023

ANNE LEBARON

CEO, TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN MANATEE

"Women are built so much stronger than we realize."

TAKING THE CEO ROLL OF TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN MANATEE in Oct. 2019 has been my biggest challenge yet. We had to totally pivot our structure and organization to serve our students in a virtual world. Also, learning to raise funds for a nonprofit virtually and making huge strides in growth for our organization. Learning also how to relate to others on a virtual platform.

PERSONAL LIFE Women mentors in my life inspired me to become the woman I am today. I learned the value of integrity and giving back and strength. Mentoring is my passion and passing on my learned knowledge to help others is my key to success. I was a single mom and raised two daughters on my own. I learned perseverance and the real meaning of strength. Women are built so much stronger than we realize. My motto is to never give up! Always being grateful and having a positive realistic attitude. MY SECRET SAUCE Gratitude! Do something that scares you every day! I tell my students I mentor this all the time.

TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN MANATEE P.O. Box 325, Palmetto, Fl. 34220 | 941-713-4454 takestockmanatee.org

— Invictus by William Ernest Henley (on my office wall)