Be on the winning team with Bemetra Simmons

September 10, 2026

Bemetra’s first career, in banking and finance, set her up well for her second act, in nonprofit leadership. Through her role at the Tampa Bay Partnership, Bemetra is a champion of regional cooperation and problem-solving based on issues and needs, not geographical boundaries. On this episode, Bemetra and Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon had a wide-ranging conversation on her background in youth and college sports, the leadership behaviors that rise to the top for her and how she builds accountability without fear among her team.

3 Takeaways

(08:35) Communication builds trust
(13:40) Competence brings confidence
(17:20) Having a little grace goes a long way

Timestamps

(00:00) Introducing Bemetra Simmons CEO, Tampa Bay Partnership
(03:40) Bemetra’s career and life after banking
(06:20) What is Tampa Bay Partnership?
(08:35) Communication builds trust
(11:20) Bemetra’s sports background
(12:25) Mentors
(13:40) What leadership characteristic does every leader need?
(14:40) What behaviors do companies celebrate that don’t necessarily produce results?
(17:05) Creating accountability without creating fear
(18:50) What do you know now that you wish you knew earlier?
(20:40) Dealing with burnout and resource drain
(22:30) What are you looking forward to the rest of the year?

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