Dr. William Kapp
Co-Founder & CEO, Fountain Life
Tell us about yourself/your business/community involvement.
I'm a physician, entrepreneur, and Co-Founder and CEO of Fountain Life, a company dedicated to transforming healthcare from reactive disease treatment to proactive early detection, prevention, and longevity. As a former orthopedic surgeon, U.S. Air Force Flight Surgeon, and healthcare innovator, I've spent my career helping people perform at their best and live healthier, longer lives.
What's exciting you most about your life right now?
We're entering an era where healthcare can be driven by data instead of guesswork. Fountain Life has collected more than 15 billion clinical data points — one of the largest datasets in preventive health — helping us detect disease years before symptoms appear and truly personalize care. We're at the beginning of a fundamental shift: from reactive to proactive, from treating disease to preventing it.
What's a side of you most people don't know about?
Many people know me as a physician and entrepreneur, but fewer know I'm also a type-rated jet pilot. Aviation has shaped how I think about medicine and risk — pilots don't wait for warning lights. They rely on continuous monitoring to stay ahead of problems. I've always believed healthcare should work the same way.
Describe your ideal Naples day.
Rising early for a run on the beach followed by a swim back in the ocean. After that, tackling business until about 6 p.m., then dinner at one of Naples' fine dining establishments and a long, decompressive walk on the beach in the evening.
What does "living well" mean to you?
It starts with having the health and vitality to do the things that matter most — family, work, passions, purpose. The real goal isn't simply living longer. It's extending healthspan: maintaining physical function, cognitive performance, and independence for as many years as possible. Living well means continuing to grow, contribute, and fully engage with the people and pursuits that bring meaning to your life.
Olivia Ramirez
Founder, Becoming Speducated
Tell us about yourself/your business/community involvement.
At Becoming Speducated, I work with children and adult learners who have struggled in traditional educational settings. My goal is to help students build confidence, develop essential skills, and realize they are capable of success when given the right support. Some learners don't struggle because they can't learn — they struggle because nobody has taught them in a way that works for their brain. I create customized learning plans, individualized support systems, and practical strategies designed around how each learner processes and retains information. I firmly believe every person has the ability to learn and succeed.
What's a side of you most people don't know about?
I have always been an advocate for students who learn differently. In 2019, I was honored to receive the Caregiver of the Year Award. One of the most meaningful moments of my career was returning to Wisconsin this past June to watch that student graduate. I was also recognized with Teacher Appreciation Awards in 2023 and 2025, and in 2024 I presented at Wisconsin's Special Education Conference.
Describe your ideal Naples day.
A perfect day starts with a coffee from the Old Naples Hotel and a quiet morning walk on the beach. I'd spend the afternoon enjoying the sunshine with a good book and a sandwich from Yacht Club Subs. In the evening, I love getting dressed up for a beautiful sunset dinner at HB's at the Four Seasons.
What do you want people to remember about you?
I want my students to walk away feeling seen, understood, and valued. Too often, they are led to believe there is something wrong with them simply because they learn differently. My hope is that they leave feeling like they belong, and knowing that someone truly cares about them.
Is there anything you're especially proud of right now?
I am incredibly proud of the person I am becoming through the Naples community. A little over a year ago, I moved here from a small town in Wisconsin — never imagining I'd be in such a beautiful coastal city, surrounded by entrepreneurs. One of the highlights has been collaborating on the Shore Acres Farm project. I am beyond excited to see what new opportunities the future holds.
Claudia Franco
Owner, Valet & Organic Hair Salon
Tell us about yourself/your business/community involvement.
I'm a women-owned business owner in Southwest Florida, running both a premier valet company and an organic hair salon. I provide high-quality, reliable service to restaurants, events, and clients throughout Naples, Bonita Springs, and Fort Myers. Beyond my businesses, I stay actively involved in the local community by supporting events, collaborating with other entrepreneurs, and helping create memorable experiences across the area.
What's exciting you most about your life right now?
Bringing my valet company down from New Jersey and introducing a higher level of service and professionalism to the Southwest Florida market. We're focused on hospitality, presentation, and creating a seamless guest experience from the moment people arrive. Being part of the launch of Ce Soir at Bayfront Naples has been especially exciting — we're proud to be part of that first impression for every guest. With more restaurant partnerships coming, it feels like we're just getting started.
Describe your ideal Naples day.
My ideal day starts with a peaceful beach walk or coffee near 5th Avenue, followed by a productive afternoon checking in on my businesses and enjoying lunch around Bayfront Naples. I love supporting local events and small businesses. I wind down with the gym, then head into the evening stopping by my valet locations and enjoying the atmosphere at places like Ce Soir — great energy, great people, and the perfect way to end the day.
Ali Keegan
The Naples Diamond Girl & Luxury Concierge
Tell us about yourself/your business/community involvement.
As I've built a reputation as The Naples Diamond Girl, I'm thrilled to announce my expansion into a full luxury concierge and lifestyle service for Naples. While watches and diamonds remain part of what I do, I now help clients with everything from private aviation and luxury transportation to golf memberships, wellness, dining, and curated local experiences. My goal: to become Naples' trusted go-to for referrals, recommendations, and curated experiences.
How has Naples shaped your professional journey?
Naples has given me the opportunity to cultivate a quality network of mentors, friends, business owners, and clients who have supported me every step of the way. It's taught me that success isn't just about what you do, but how you help others along the way.
What's a side of you most people don't know about?
Most people know me through the luxury world, but when I'm not in heels, I'm usually on a golf course or chasing my next adventure. I'm naturally competitive and love staying active — running, snowboarding, surfing, or trying something new. I'm happiest when I'm moving, learning, and making the most of every chapter.
What do you want people to remember about you?
Someone who made life more enjoyable, easier, and a little more fun. Someone who connected people and always had a recommendation, an introduction, or a solution. I hope I brought a little class, style, and humor into everything I did — and if I left people smiling, I'd consider that a life well lived.
Is there anything you're especially proud of right now?
Golf has quickly become one of my greatest passions — it combines strategy, discipline, and relationship-building, and some of the best business is done on the course. Since taking up the game in November, I'm now shooting in the low 90s and high 80s, and I look forward to taking a few more strokes off my game in the months ahead.
What does "living well" mean to you?
Great relationships, interesting conversations, staying active, and having the freedom to say yes when adventure calls. After traveling solo to 25 countries, I discovered that life's greatest luxuries were waiting for me right here in Naples: family, meaningful friendships, and building a life that feels authentic to who I am.
Sarah LeVeque
Tell us about yourself/your business/community involvement.
I began my real estate career at just 15 years old, answering phones at a boutique real estate office in Birmingham, Michigan. By the age of 19, I had earned my real estate license and began working for a top-producing agent who taught me more about the business than any class ever could. At the same time, I was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marketing and interning at a large advertising agency outside of Detroit. It quickly became clear that real estate was more than just a job—it was my future.
Over the years, I have worked in many different sectors of the real estate industry, each providing valuable experience and perspective. When the housing market collapsed in 2008 and suburban Detroit was hit particularly hard, I relocated to Chicago and transitioned into property management. The rental market was thriving, and living in the city during my early twenties felt like a dream. Eventually, however, I reached a professional ceiling and knew there were other areas of real estate I wanted to explore.
Through a recruiting firm, I landed a position in construction management. That role proved to be a turning point in my career. While my employer was not always easy to work with, he taught me invaluable lessons about the construction process, reading blueprints, and identifying quality craftsmanship—skills that continue to benefit my clients today.
After a major life change and feeling burned out by city living, I moved to Denver, drawn by the mountains, fresh air, and outdoor lifestyle. There, I joined a capital management firm overseeing a portfolio of distressed real estate assets. It was a completely new world for me. During my first meetings, terms like EBITDA, AUM, and CAPEX sounded like a foreign language. Determined to succeed, I spent countless evenings researching every concept discussed so I could contribute with confidence.
Ultimately, family brought me back to my roots in residential real estate. Helping people buy and sell homes is where I feel most fulfilled, and I am grateful to do what I love in Naples, the place I proudly call my forever home. With more than 26 years of experience spanning sales, marketing, construction, property management, and asset management, I bring a well-rounded perspective to every client relationship.
Jennifer Matteo
Tell us about yourself/your business/community involvement.*
Community has always been at the heart of JMEP. While we’re known for creating elevated weddings and events, we believe our greatest impact happens beyond the celebrations themselves. Over the years, JMEP has intentionally invested in the communities we serve by building meaningful relationships with local venues, creative partners, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations. We believe that a thriving wedding industry is built on collaboration, not competition, and we’re passionate about connecting people, supporting fellow entrepreneurs, and helping elevate Florida as a premier destination for exceptional events. Whether we’re mentoring new professionals, partnering with local businesses, participating in networking events, supporting venue launches, or creating opportunities for others to grow, our commitment is simple: leave every community stronger than we found it. At JMEP, we don’t just plan beautiful events—we help build the relationships, partnerships, and sense of community that make them possible. Because when local businesses succeed together, everyone benefits.
What's exciting you most about your life right now — a new direction, a recent win, something on the horizon?
What’s New at JMEP? This year marks an exciting new chapter for Jennifer Matteo Event Planning. As we celebrate 10 years of creating exceptional weddings and events, we’re continuing to expand our reach across Florida, California, New York, Texas, and Georgia, while also taking on destination celebrations worldwide. Beyond planning, JMEP has grown into a trusted partner for the hospitality industry—consulting with luxury venues, helping launch distinctive event properties, and creating experiences that are as thoughtful as they are beautiful. From intimate private estates to iconic waterfront venues, we’re helping shape the future of luxury celebrations. Behind the scenes, our team has grown, our creative vision has evolved, and we’re investing even more in personalized planning, elevated design, and intentional client experiences. Every event is crafted to feel authentic to our couples while delivering the seamless execution JMEP is known for. Ten years in, we’re not chasing trends—we’re continuing to raise the standard for what luxury event planning can be. The next chapter is about thoughtful growth, meaningful partnerships, and creating celebrations that leave a lasting impression.
Janie and Mike Yag
Tell us about yourself/your business/community involvement. Shore Acres Farm began as an equestrian farm focused first and foremost on the idyllic care of horses…”It’s all about the horse”! We give our horses the best care, feed, hay, supplements, and facilities. Janie watches over each and every horse as if they were her own children. We do board horses and lease some of our horses to people that share Janie’s passion.
What’s exciting you most about your life right now – a new direction, a recent win, something on the horizon? We are in a transitional period right now. We are months away from real retirement and focusing completely on our farm, our horses and enjoying our life together.
How has Naples specifically shaped or supported your professional journey? We are blessed with a good support system for the farm and a great team in Naples. We enjoy representing Naples when we are competing and at equestrian events.
What’s a side of you that most people don’t know about – a passion, talent, or hobby that might surprise people? Mike has a love for cars and enjoys participating in car events in Naples. Janie enjoys the great friendships we have made and all that Naples has to offer.
Describe your ideal Naples day morning to night. We are blessed to wake up early to beautiful sunrises, enjoy the horses and riders on the farm throughout the day and often having dinner away from the farm in one of our many favorite restaurants.
What organizations, causes, or community efforts are you most involved with? We enjoy being part of this amazingly generous community and participating in several charity events. It is our hope that one day we may be able to host a special event on the farm.
What’s a value or belief that guides how you live and work? We both grew up with a strong work ethic and desire to be successful at our endeavors. Mike is an entrepreneur and together we are thrilled to be sharing our farm with others that love horses and being part of this community.
What do you want people to remember about you? That we are welcoming and have a special place in our hearts for horses.
Garren Grup
Tell us about yourself/your business.
Garren Grup, who leads Grup Coastal Living, has been counseling clients and negotiating the purchase and sale of Southwest Florida properties for more than 20 years at John R. Wood Christie’s International Real Estate. His commitment and passion for real estate, depth and breadth of market knowledge, and desire to deliver exceptional customer service by utilizing his transactional expertise and professional representation have proved to be successful and rewarding for his valued clients.
A full-time Florida resident and savvy luxury real estate advisor, Garren has a proven track record that places him in the top percentile of Southwest Florida real estate specialists. He excels in formulating solutions to the challenges facing buyers and sellers of properties at all price points, as well as the resolve to tirelessly construct the best terms and outcome for those who choose to have his representation.
Grup & Associates Coastal Properties specializes in the distinctive communities of the Greater Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Fort Myers Beach real estate markets. Garren and his team of community leaders enjoy sharing their vast market experience while focusing on each community's exceptional features. Each day they execute, on behalf of their clients, very deliberate, strategic and skillful measures that make a difference. Furthermore, Garren and his team create targeted and effective marketing customized to produce superior results tailored to each property. Sellers benefit from resourceful strategies that elevate property visibility through their personal network of professional contacts, name recognition, print materials, and a vast array of highly effective digital marketing initiatives. In total, these proven initiatives capture a worldwide buying audience that is far beyond the reach of many competitors and imitators.