In this episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen sits down with Paul "Butch" Manley, a cornerstone of the Collier County educational system for decades. Known to generations as the first principal of Barron Collier High School, Mr. Manley shares his journey from an Indianapolis teacher to a foundational leader in Naples education, starting in 1967.

The conversation delves into the "frontier" days of local schooling—from teaching biology and coaching track at Naples High to managing the explosive growth that led to double sessions and the opening of multiple new campuses. Mr. Manley reflects on his enduring philosophy that every student is capable of success if their unique needs are understood and supported.

“If you can find out what the problem is, that student can learn. You got to believe that or you shouldn't be a teacher.” — Paul "Butch" Manley.

Thank you to our location sponsor, Ferrari of Naples, for allowing us to record in their space.

Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.

In this episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen Weardon sits down with Tony Ridgway, a pioneering chef and restaurateur who has been a cornerstone of the Naples dining scene since 1971. Tony shares his journey from arriving in a quiet 1962 Naples to becoming a key architect of the city's culinary identity.

Tony reflects on the evolution of "Old Naples," the shift from food-centric to relationship-driven service, and the grit required to navigate decades of growth and change. From the early days of The Chef's Garden to the enduring legacy of Ridgway Bar & Grill, Tony’s story is a testament to the passion and community spirit that defines the Naples experience.

“I recognize that food comes in second. Service and the relationships that we develop with the people is everything.” — Tony Ridgway.

Check out Ridgway Bar & Grill at RidgwayBarAndGrill.com

Thank you to our location sponsor, Feel Amazing Spine and Joint Institute Naples, for allowing us to record in their space.

Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.

In this episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen Weardon welcomes Eileen Arsenault, a dedicated champion of historic preservation, cultural awareness, and environmental conservation. From her early days navigating the quaint, quiet streets of Naples in the 1980s to her deep involvement with the historical society and environmental boards, Eileen shares how she became a steward of the community’s unique character.

Eileen discusses the power of visual history, specifically through her new book, which uses art to anchor the rich narratives of Collier County. She provides a fascinating look at the early pioneers, the importance of preserving natural habitats like mangroves and coral reefs, and the "spirit" of the historic homes that anchor Old Naples today.

“Whatever resonates in their heart about things that should be preserved... I hope they will work towards preserving it.” — Eileen Arsenault.

Check out An Artful History of Naples at ArtfulHistoryOfNaples.com

Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.

In the conclusion of this 2-part conversation, Kristen Weardon continues her deep dive with legendary landscape photographer Clyde Butcher. Clyde dispels the myths of the "scary" Florida swamp, sharing how his mentor, Oscar Thompson, helped him see the Big Cypress not as a dangerous stagnant pool, but as a safe, solid, and vital "river of grass."

Clyde explains the philosophy behind his massive black-and-white prints, which are designed not just to be looked at, but to be experienced. He shares intimate stories of patience and persistence—returning to the same spot for 9 years to get a single shot—and reflects on how art serves as a critical bridge to environmental awareness and conservation.

“If you can't feel it, you can't see it...I'm creating a feeling. A womb. A space. A room.” — Clyde Butcher.

Thank you to our location sponsor, Gulfshore Playhouse, for allowing us to use their Founder's Lounge.

Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.

In this episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen sits down with the legendary Clyde Butcher, a man who has shifted the world’s perspective on the Florida landscape through his monumental black-and-white photography. Originally from California, Clyde shares his journey from living on a sailboat in Newport Beach to discovering the "spiritual cathedral" of the Florida swamp.

More than just a photographer, Clyde is a dedicated storyteller and conservationist. He recounts the pivotal week in the early 80s when he "found Florida" through a chance stop at a roadside attraction and an introduction to the deep wilderness of Big Cypress. Clyde discusses his transition from color to black-and-white photography and his evolution into one of the most passionate guardians of the Everglades ecosystem.

“Florida is a living, organic environment...you find a big old cypress tree and hug it for about half an hour, you can feel the energy in that tree.” — Clyde Butcher.

Thank you to our location sponsor, Gulfshore Playhouse, for allowing us to use their Founder's Lounge.

Thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.

In this episode of Icons of Naples, host Kristen Weardon sits down with Jean Walker-Humphries, a multi-generational Floridian whose family roots trace back to the very foundation of the state. Jean’s family history is a masterclass in the evolution of Southwest Florida, from her great-grandfather’s 40-acre homestead in Bonita Springs to her father’s pioneering engineering of Naples' famous waterways.

Jean shares a captivating look at a time when Naples was home to only 125 people. She details the grit and ingenuity of her ancestors—nurses, deputies, guides, and builders—who didn't just witness history, but actively constructed the neighborhoods and schools we recognize today.

“If you're from here, I'm related to you.” — Jean Walker-Humphries.

A huge thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.

In the premiere episode of Icons of Naples, Kristen Weardon sits down with the extraordinary Thelma Hodges, a woman whose life is inextricably woven into the very first chapters of Naples, Florida. Arriving in a dark, quiet fishing village in November 1955, Thelma served as one of the community's first three nurses.

Thelma shares fascinating first-hand accounts of the early days of Naples Community Hospital, from unpacking medical instruments on the floor of a building that was still a shell to working through the devastating surge of Hurricane Donna in 1960.

Beyond her medical career, Thelma discusses her life with her late husband, Earl Hodges, a visionary philanthropist. Together, they built a legacy of service and education that continues to shape Southwest Florida today.

“If I had been born here, I couldn't have loved this place more.” — Thelma Hodges.

A huge thank you to our technology sponsor, Robert of Philadelphia, for making this podcast possible.