Kelly Jasen President and CEO of UWEC sits down with Ed Burns, Community President of United Fidelity Bank Emerald Coast, to talk about the power of community banking and volunteerism. Ed shares why his team is proud to serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the upcoming United for Impact, a Non-profit Conference, highlights their annual Community Day, and reflects on leading by example as he joins the UWEC board.

In this episode of Change Starts with U, we sit down with Tiffany Bechard, the powerhouse behind Emerald Coast Vibe & The Place on Beal. Tiffany shares her journey from café owner at 26 to leading a full-service event team, all while balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. She opens up about the challenges of running a small business, the importance of delegation, and how she manages stress—lessons she learned as early as 13 years old. Tiffany also talks about why supporting nonprofits is close to her heart and how giving back is more than just a tax write-off—it’s a way to stay grounded and connected. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!

On this episode of Change Starts with U, interior designer, business owner, and community advocate Sean Devlin joins Deborah Lawson to talk about intentional design, personal growth, and the value of showing up. He shares how reconnecting with Walton County’s young professionals group and joining Project Lead helped him build stronger community ties and grow as both a leader and entrepreneur.

In this episode of Change Starts with You, Sara Greco, Vice Chair of Women United, joins Deborah Lawson to reflect on the mission behind Women United—supporting mental health for women and girls in Okaloosa and Walton counties. They recap the success of Brunch & Bubbly, share impact stories from EmpowHER, and highlight how Women United is creating safe, empowering spaces through vulnerability, connection, and community care.

In this episode of Change Starts with U, we’re joined by Todd Jackson, CEO of HCA Florida Twin Cities Hospital; Kelly Jasen, President & CEO of United Way Emerald Coast; and Tammy Barrientos, UWEC Impact Coordinator. Together, they dive into the heart of Volunteer Week—a special time when volunteers unite to support local nonprofits, schools, and municipalities through meaningful service projects. Todd shares why HCA chose to not only sponsor Volunteer Week but also actively participate, living out their motto: “We show up.” Kelly reflects on the incredible care her family received at HCA and how that same compassion shows up in their volunteer work. Tammy walks us through the planning process behind Volunteer Week, from coordinating projects to launching the annual Day of Caring. From gardening and games to long-term visions of a healthier, more connected community, this conversation is a powerful reminder of how one day of service can spark lasting change.

In this episode of Change Starts with You, Marlee Tucker, former Director of Development at United Way Emerald Coast, sits down with Danica, the local owner of Fish Window Cleaning. Discover how a chance meeting led to an impactful partnership, turning everyday window cleaning into a creative way of giving back to the community. Danica shares her journey from small business owner to a community advocate, her involvement with Project LEAD, and innovative approaches to engaging local businesses in philanthropy. Tune in to learn how small contributions can create a ripple effect of change across Northwest Florida!

In this episode of Change starts with U, Kelly Jason, President & CEO of UWEC, and Hong Potomski, Market Leader at Florida Blue, discuss their long-standing partnership focused on health equity and community impact. Hong shares her journey from serving on UWEC’s Equity Team to becoming a Board member and highlights the success of initiatives like the ALICE simulations and ProjectLEAD. They dive into how these programs have empowered community members, built diverse leadership, and supported underserved areas. Hong also opens up about her personal "why"—the driving force behind her passion for giving back and her dedication to making a difference.

In this episode of Change Starts With You, Marlee Tucker welcomes Mona Ponder, local real estate broker and owner of Real Estate Empowered. Mona shares her journey of helping others uncover their purpose and giving them the permission they need to pursue it. Together, they discuss the incredible impact of Women United initiatives like Brunch & Bubbly, Courageous Conversations, EmpowHER, and crisis kits, which are transforming lives across our the Emerald Coast by addressing mental health and breaking down stigmas. This episode highlights the power of connection, vulnerability, and empowerment in creating lasting change for women and girls.