Coffee Talk with Becky Dee

Becky Dee

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Society & Culture
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Real people. Real stories. Local voices making a difference in our community. Join Becky Dee for candid conversations with entrepreneurs, community leaders, advocates, neighbors, and everyday people with stories worth sharing. From business and leadership to personal growth, resilience, and community impact, Coffee Talk gets to know the people behind the stories. beckydee5.substack.com

6 hr ago

#13 Just Being Gibb: Heart, Humor & Hometown Legacy

What happens when you sit down for coffee with someone who has spent decades helping shape a community—and still enjoys being the troublemaker at the Chamber luncheon? You get Gib Coerper, a few unexpected stories, and plenty of laughter. This week on Coffee Talk with Becky Dee, Becky sits down with Alachua’s former mayor for a conversation about fatherhood, public service, thinking ahead, and the everyday ways we leave a mark on the people around us. Gib shares how his Navy service and career with AT&T eventually brought him from South Florida to Alachua, where he bought his home in 1974. His work gave him a firsthand understanding of infrastructure and a chance to meet people throughout North Florida—connections and experience he would later bring into city government. But some of his most meaningful work started with being a dad. After becoming a single father when his son was just three and a half, Gib built a home where neighborhood kids wanted to gather. There were trips to the springs, pizza outings, sports, and the occasional arm-wrestling challenge from a kid who probably should have listened to his friends first. Becky shares her own experiences raising three children, and the two connect over the challenges and rewards of making home a welcoming place. That commitment to kids carried into the community. Gib recalls working with other parents to help establish soccer at Santa Fe High School, supporting youth recreation, and recognizing the opportunity to secure the land that became Legacy Park. He also looks back on Alachua’s growth, the importance of planning before the need becomes urgent, and the partnerships that helped move projects forward. They talk about beautification efforts, neighborhood cleanups, and what happens when people understand a vision and decide they want to help. One of the most touching moments comes when Gib remembers a young woman who recognized him years after he had tutored her in third grade. Now an adult working at Legacy Park, she still had a photograph of the two of them together—a reminder that the time we give someone can stay with them long after we realize. Of course, there are a few lighter mysteries to settle, too: the mustache that once made him unrecognizable when he shaved it, his enthusiasm for a certain breakfast sandwich, and the initials he quietly added to sidewalks and curbs around town. Through all the stories, Gib keeps coming back to helping where he can, creating positive opportunities, and making people laugh. His time in office may be over, but he still finds reasons to show up. Grab your coffee and pull up a chair for a conversation about a growing city, a life of service, and the joy of just being Gib. About Gib Coerper Gib Coerper is Alachua’s former mayor, a Navy veteran, and an AT&T retiree who has called the city home since 1974. His community involvement has included youth soccer, recreation, beautification projects, neighborhood cleanups, and more than a decade of tutoring elementary school students. ☕ Keep the conversation going Subscribe to Coffee Talk with Becky Dee on Substack, or follow the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Voiceover & original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOPro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com
11 Oct

#12 Small Acts, Real Impact: Our First 10 Conversations

This week, we’re doing something a little different on Coffee Talk with Becky Dee. We’re celebrating Becky’s introductory episode and her first ten guest conversations with a special collection of memorable moments, meaningful insights, unexpected laughs, and stories of people making a difference in our community. With Dan Kreitz guiding us through the highlights, we revisit the conversations that remind us why connection matters. From a networking event nearly derailed by the wrong HDMI cable to an entrepreneur’s unforgettable truck adventure, there’s plenty of laughter along the way. But there are also powerful reminders about showing up for others, finding balance between work and family, embracing imperfections, and recognizing the importance of simply listening. You’ll hear about a childhood encounter with Mr. Rogers, a community organization helping a neighbor through a difficult situation, and a business that encourages its team to support causes close to their hearts. And we return to Becky herself—to the little girl who dreamed of being on the radio and the vision she shared when Coffee Talk first began. Through it all, one message shines through: small acts of kindness, genuine relationships, and meaningful conversations can create ripples far beyond what we imagine. And the best part? We’re just getting started! Becky has more conversations with community leaders and interesting people coming your way. This special episode is a celebration of the journey so far, with plenty more stories ahead. ☕ Keep the conversation going Subscribe to Coffee Talk with Becky Dee on Substack, or follow the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Real people. Real stories. Local voices making a difference. Voiceover & original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOPro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com
5 Oct

#11 More Than Numbers with Michael Solomon

What happens when you sit down for coffee with an accountant who loves motorcycles, collects cowboy boots, and believes relationships are the foundation of a successful business? You get Michael Solomon—and a conversation that goes well beyond the numbers. This week, Becky welcomes her friend and fellow Greater Gainesville Chamber diplomat, Michael Solomon, founder of Accounting Personalized. Together, they look back on the early days of his business, their memorable first lunch, and the community connections that helped turn a small firm into something much bigger. Michael shares why he started Accounting Personalized in the summer of 2020 and what he felt was missing: the chance to really know his clients, understand their goals, and help them move forward without judgment. From starting with about 75 clients to serving more than 5,000, he talks about the teamwork, long hours, and personal commitment behind that growth. Giving back is part of that story, too. Each member of Michael’s team chooses a charitable cause, and the staff shows up to support it together. From Ronald McDonald House to Rebuilding Together, their volunteer work helps the community while bringing the people in the office closer together. Michael also shares news about his next chapter in Chamber leadership—and catches Becky by surprise. Of course, there are plenty of detours along the way: a friendly cowboy boot rivalry, motorcycle adventures, a restored Kawasaki, and the possibility of Becky finally learning to ride. There’s also a peek at her plans for Dance Alive’s Dancing with the Stars and the joy she’s found in making her lifelong radio dream a reality. The conversation turns thoughtful as they talk about Michael’s Motivational Mondays, the impact of small words of encouragement, and why honest communication matters in friendships and business. In a community where everyone seems to know someone you know, how you treat people makes a difference. Through all the laughter, one idea keeps coming through: success means more when you love what you do and keep showing up for the people around you. Grab your coffee and pull up a chair. About Michael Solomon Michael Solomon is the founder of Accounting Personalized, a Gainesville-based accounting firm serving individuals and businesses locally and across the country. His approach centers on personal relationships, understanding each client’s goals, and helping them navigate their next steps. Outside the office, he’s active in the Greater Gainesville Chamber and community service—and enjoys riding motorcycles and bringing mechanical projects back to life. Learn more at AccountingPersonalized.com or call 352-224-9530. ☕ Keep the conversation going Subscribe to Coffee Talk with Becky Dee on Substack, or follow the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Voiceover & original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOPro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com
27 Sept

#10 Won’t You Be My Neighbor with RD Bonnaghan

What does it really mean to be a good neighbor? Grab your coffee and pull up a chair, because Becky Dee sits down with RD Bonnaghan, Executive Director of Rebuilding Together North Central Florida, for a conversation that starts with home repair and somehow winds its way through Mr. Rogers, personal responsibility, community, purpose, growth—and why all of us need a little help from our neighbors sometimes. For more than 20 years, Rebuilding Together North Central Florida has been repairing homes, revitalizing communities, and rebuilding lives by helping people remain safely in the homes they already love. RD explains why preserving existing homes is an often-overlooked part of the affordable housing conversation—especially for seniors, people living on fixed incomes, and families whose homes may have been passed down for generations. But this conversation quickly becomes about something much bigger than houses. Growing up outside Pittsburgh, RD had an unexpected childhood encounter with none other than Fred Rogers—yes, that Mr. Rogers—at the dentist! That connection became especially meaningful as RD grew older and began recognizing how closely Mr. Rogers’ philosophy of kindness, community, and caring for one another aligned with the values RD had learned at home. And that raises a bigger question: What does it actually mean to love your neighbor? Sometimes it means mowing someone’s lawn after surgery. Sometimes it means packing food baskets. Sometimes it means helping someone repair a leaking roof. Sometimes it means giving help—and sometimes it means having enough humility to receive it. Becky and RD also get candid about accountability, making mistakes, apologizing, and learning to own your side of the road. They share stories about moments when things went wrong, why going back to make something right can be uncomfortable, and how those moments can ultimately help us become better people. RD also shares some of the deeply human stories behind Rebuilding Together, including the organization’s new BRIDGES program, which provides temporary portable air-conditioning units to vulnerable homeowners while they wait for permanent repairs. RD recalls walking into a senior’s dangerously hot home and realizing immediately just how much something seemingly simple could change someone’s life. There’s also the story of Miss Millie, whose High Springs home became part of RD’s own reminder of why the work matters—and why sometimes, when the paperwork, grants, reports, and frustrations pile up, reconnecting with the people you serve can reconnect you with your purpose. The conversation eventually comes full circle as Becky reflects on her own journey from more than three decades in hospitality to finally pursuing the radio career she had dreamed about since childhood. Becky and RD talk about finding work that aligns with your values, learning through difficult seasons, and understanding that being where you’re meant to be doesn’t mean every day is going to be easy. And because this is Coffee Talk, there are plenty of wonderfully unexpected detours along the way—from Gainesville and the Cade Museum to Florida tulips, matcha, travel soccer, karaoke, and RD’s neighborhood favorite, Public & General. At its heart, though, this episode comes back to one beautifully simple idea: We need each other. Being a good neighbor isn’t only about what you can give. It’s about creating the kind of community where people can give when they’re able, receive when they need to, admit when they’ve made a mistake, and keep showing up for one another. Maybe Mr. Rogers really did have it figured out. About RD Bonnaghan RD Bonnaghan is the Executive Director of Rebuilding Together North Central Florida, where RD has spent nearly 15 years helping homeowners remain safely in their homes while strengthening neighborhoods throughout the region. Through home repairs, accessibility improvements, emergency assistance, partnerships, volunteers, and community connections, Rebuilding Together works to preserve affordable housing while helping people maintain the homes—and the memories—they have built there. ☕ Keep the conversation going Subscribe to Coffee Talk with Becky Dee on Substack, or follow the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Voiceover & original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOPro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com
22 Sept

#9 Wellness, Fitness & Killing “Can’t” From Your Vocabulary with Dawn Smith — Plus a Little Love for Leonardo’s Pizza & Kyle Cohen

On this episode of Coffee Talk with Becky Dee, Becky sits down with Dawn Smith, owner of Absolute Wellness and Weight Loss, for a candid conversation about health, weight loss, mindset, prevention and making sustainable changes that actually fit into real life. Dawn shares the unexpected journey that brought her into the wellness world. With a background in medicine, her path took an unexpected turn after a difficult pregnancy, motherhood and the decision to stay home while raising her sons. Years later, another unexpected opportunity eventually led her to take over the weight-loss clinic that would become Absolute Wellness and Weight Loss. What began as a weight-loss practice grew into something much broader: helping people better understand their bodies, improve their overall health and take a more active role in the choices they make. Becky and Dawn dig into nutrition, portion control, modified ketogenic plans, muscle, metabolism, sleep, stress and some of the newer wellness options Dawn has incorporated into her practice — including natural ingestible peptides. But the conversation quickly becomes about much more than losing weight. Dawn talks about the importance of education, prevention and giving people tools they can use to make informed decisions about their own health. Her philosophy isn’t about demanding perfection. It’s about helping people make better choices more consistently and recognizing that one meal, one bad day or one setback doesn’t erase the progress you’ve already made. That leads Becky and Dawn into one of the biggest themes of the episode: mindset. They talk about how easily we label ourselves as being “good” or “bad” because of what we eat and why changing that language can change the way we think about health altogether. Instead of punishment, guilt and starting over again every Monday, Dawn encourages people to focus on choices, consistency and simply continuing to try. And one message especially stands out: You haven’t failed if you haven’t stopped trying. Of course, this is still Coffee Talk with Becky Dee, so the conversation comes with plenty of unexpected detours, laughter and Gainesville connections along the way. Becky and Dawn discover their shared connection to Kyle, who Dawn says was her longtime neighbor and whose older child went to kindergarten with Dawn’s. That leads to some affectionate teasing about Kyle, his wife and his golf game — and, naturally, a local connection to Leonardo’s Pizza of Millhopper. There are also conversations about motherhood, food, restaurants, exercise, Pilates, potatoes, coffee, beaches, sunsets — and Becky deciding that her bathroom scale may officially be fired. 😂 At its heart, this episode is about taking care of yourself without expecting yourself to be perfect. Small decisions matter. Progress matters. Trying again matters. And sometimes improving your health begins not with completely changing your life overnight, but simply making the next choice a little better than the last one. Community Spotlight: Central Florida Peanut Festival This week’s Community Spotlight takes us to Williston, where Becky welcomes Dena Battle to talk about one of the area’s longtime traditions — the Central Florida Peanut Festival! 🥜 Celebrating its 37th year, the Peanut Festival brings thousands of people to Williston from around the region, along with vendors traveling from throughout Florida and beyond. This year’s festival features 125 vendors, including plenty of local favorites and some new additions. And yes — there will be peanuts. Lots of peanuts. 🥜 Williston Peanut, the event’s main sponsor, is known for its grilled peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, which they’ll be giving away free at their tent while supplies last. Dena’s advice? Get there early — they go fast! The festivities kick off at 9:00 AM with an opening ceremony featuring JROTC, followed by a full day of vendors, food, community and plenty of peanut-filled fun. Best of all? Admission is free! To learn more about the Central Florida Peanut Festival, visit willistonflchamber.com or follow the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce on social media. About the Guest Dawn Smith is the owner of Absolute Wellness and Weight Loss, where she works with clients on individualized approaches to wellness, nutrition, weight management and sustainable lifestyle change. ☕ Keep the conversation going Subscribe to Coffee Talk with Becky Dee on Substack, or follow the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Voiceover & original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOpro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com
15 Sept

#8 Hometown Proud with Jordan Marlowe

In this episode of Coffee Talk with Becky Dee, Becky sits down with Jordan Marlowe, Newberry City Manager, former mayor, longtime educator, farmer, and fourth-generation Newberry native, for a conversation about roots, leadership, growth, and what truly makes a community feel like home. Jordan’s connection to Newberry runs generations deep. He shares the remarkable story of his grandfather, who arranged to purchase the family farm before D-Day, survived a Nazi prison work camp during World War II, and eventually returned home to find the farm paid off and waiting for him. That land remains part of Jordan’s life today and helped shape his deep connection to the community he now helps lead. But City Hall wasn’t always the plan. Jordan spent 19 years teaching at Newberry High School, where he also coached, mentored students, sponsored student government and helped young people experience opportunities far beyond the classroom. A challenge from some of those very students eventually helped push him toward public service — first as a commissioner, then mayor, and ultimately into his current role as City Manager. Becky and Jordan talk about what leadership looks like when it’s rooted in listening rather than recognition, the importance of helping people feel heard even when you disagree, and Jordan’s belief that being a “small town” has less to do with population and more to do with how people treat one another. They also dive into Newberry’s rapid growth and the challenge of embracing new opportunities without losing the character that makes the community special. Jordan shares what’s happening with downtown revitalization, parks, recreation, Champions Park and the vision for expanding Newberry as a destination for sports, events and experiences. And because this is Coffee Talk, things get a little competitive too. Becky and Jordan discuss their upcoming zip-line race on Newberry’s Double Dragon — because apparently talking about community development wasn’t enough excitement for one episode. Through it all, one message keeps coming back: community is built through kindness, connection, shared values and people willing to show up for one another. Jordan leaves us with a simple challenge for the day: Look for the light. It’s there every day — and be the light for somebody else. Grab your coffee and pull up a chair for a conversation about hometown roots, public service, positive leadership, big dreams for a growing community — and the people who make Newberry feel like home. ☕ Keep the conversation going Subscribe to Coffee Talk with Becky Dee on Substack, or follow the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Voiceover & original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOPro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com
8 Sept

#7 Real Talk about Being Authentically You with Jasmine Robinson & Spotlight with Lizzie Robinson Jenkins from The Real Rosewood Foundation

What happens when you stop worrying about being everything to everyone and simply show up as who you are? In this episode of Coffee Talk with Becky Dee, Becky sits down with Jasmine Robinson, Vice President of Membership Development at the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce, for a fun, honest, and refreshingly real conversation about relationships, community, career, family, and authenticity. Jasmine shares the story of coming to Gainesville to attend the University of Florida, earning degrees in journalism and business, and building a career that has taken her through higher education, special events, alumni relations, national associations, and now back into the face-to-face relationship building she loves most. Along the way, she talks about why Gainesville became home, her love for the Gator Nation, Friday-night football, and the importance of protecting your peace while still staying connected to the people around you. Becky and Jasmine also get candid about social media, positivity, self-editing, and what it means to be genuinely yourself. Jasmine makes it clear that what you see is what you get — and that authenticity has become one of her greatest strengths in building meaningful relationships. In her new role with the Greater Gainesville Chamber, Jasmine is focused on helping businesses connect, making sure members feel heard, and continuing to strengthen the community she has called home for so many years. Then, in this episode’s Community Spotlight, Becky welcomes Lizzie Robinson Jenkins for a moving conversation about Rosewood, Florida, the 1923 massacre that destroyed the community, and the deeply personal family connection Lizzie carries to that history. Lizzie shares how her aunt, a schoolteacher in Rosewood, was directly affected by the violence, and recounts the efforts that helped members of the community escape. Lizzie is now working to preserve and share that history through plans for a Rosewood Museum in Archer, on family land where generations of her family grew up. The project has already moved into planning and development, with mapping, surveying, and renderings completed, and fundraising efforts underway. ☕ Grab your coffee and join the conversation. Subscribe to Coffee Talk with Becky Dee on Substack, or follow the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode. Voiceover & original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOPro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com
30 Aug

#6 Connecting, Beating Depression, Following Your Intuition & Living Life for Today with Michelle Young

Sometimes the best way to find your community is to create it yourself. On this episode of Coffee Talk with Becky Dee, Becky sits down with Michelle Young for a candid conversation about connection, overcoming depression, trusting your intuition, and learning to live life to the fullest. Michelle shares the winding path that took her from nutrition and peak-performance coaching to becoming a familiar connector in Gainesville’s business community. After moving to Gainesville and going through a difficult season of isolation and change, Michelle challenged herself to do something “big and scary” — instead of simply attending a networking event, she started one. That leap eventually grew into the Gainesville Business and Real Estate Professionals community, along with She Means Business, a networking community for women. Becky and Michelle talk about building meaningful relationships, putting yourself in the right rooms, listening to your instincts, taking chances, and finding purpose through the people and experiences around you. Plus, in this episode’s Community Spotlight, Becky welcomes Erica Merrell of Peaceful Paths, Gainesville’s domestic violence abuse center. Erica shares how Peaceful Paths provides a residential community and outreach services including legal and children’s services, helping individuals and families find hope, support, and a path forward. Becky also shares why the organization holds a very personal place in her heart and the difference its services made in her own life. It’s an episode about resilience, trusting yourself, showing up for others, and making the most of the life you have right now. Grab your coffee and pull up a chair for another conversation with the local voices making a difference in our community. Coffee Talk with Becky DeeReal people. Real stories. Local voices. Voiceover and original music by Dan Kreitz — DKVOPro.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beckydee5.substack.com

Real people. Real stories. Local voices making a difference in our community. Join Becky Dee for candid conversations with entrepreneurs, community leaders, advocates, neighbors, and everyday people with stories worth sharing. From business and leadership to personal growth, resilience, and community impact, Coffee Talk gets to know the people behind the stories. beckydee5.substack.com

Creator

Becky Dee
Years Active

2026
Episodes

13
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Becky Dee
Show Website

Coffee Talk with Becky Dee