Transforming Soft Skills into Serious Power.

Presence, judgment, and trust aren’t nice-to-haves. They’re the new rules of leadership.

Betsy Gardner

Authentic Leadership. Actionable Results.

When you work with Betsy Gardner, you get practical strategy, clear-eyed leadership, and real results. She helps people and organizations grow—driving revenue, solving complex challenges, and leading with authenticity. Known for turning obstacles into opportunities, Betsy blends business acumen with human insight to build trust, spark innovation, and deliver outcomes that matter.

Clients include:

Many leaders feel frustrated and stuck — perhaps you do, too.

Consider this:

Does your business model support the revenue targets essential for growth?

Is your talent, culture, and strategy tightly aligned with your goals?

Is your go-to-market strategy distinctive and innovative enough to set you apart?

Are your communications effective across the right channels and within budget?

Are you attuned to external factors, such as infrastructure and political dynamics?

The journey doesn't have to  be this challenging. Let's refine the path to your success.

ABOUT

I’m Betsy, a Visionary Leader, change agent and business developer.

I have worked across diverse industries, sectors, and global markets, guiding organizations through various stages of growth to achieve success.

I am a leader that creates transformative, award-winning business models that fuel sustainable revenue growth and deliver operational excellence across diverse industries, global sites and company sizes. Renowned for energizing cross-functional teams to consistently outperform targets, I drive innovation, profitability, and long-term value that extends far beyond financial metrics. I am passionate about building diverse and inclusive teams that navigate complex systems of change.

I go by many different names.

CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce

01

StrengthsFinder: Woo, Activator, Ideation, Futuristic, Input

02

Marathon Finisher: New York and San Diego

03

Internationally Recognized Author and Speaker

04

Graduate, Erma Bombeck Humor Writers’ Workshop

05

Mom to Haden and Lucy, two grown and launched adults

06

Dog mom to Axel - a Cockapoo

07

what can you expect when working with me

At the Winter Park Chamber, I bring clients and stakeholders strategic clarity, innovative growth, and a more engaged and diverse organization, positioning it for sustained success and greater impact through:

  • Resilience and Future-Readiness

  • Empowered and Diverse Leadership

  • Innovative and High-Impact Solutions

  • Robust Board Governance

  • Strategic Turnaround and Sustainable Growth

  • Increased Stakeholder and Community Impact

Speaking

InspirING teams and EncouragING Them To Take Action

KEynote Topics

Sales For Non-Salespeople: Mastering Persuasion and Influence Without the Pushy Tactics

Soft Skills for Hard Results: Mastering Emotional Intelligence and Communication for Leadership Success

Design Your Future: Crafting A Powerful Personal Strategic Plan

Loyalty Beyond Transactions: Community-Driven Strategies to Win Customers for Life

Interested in Booking Me To Speak?

Commanding the Room: Mastering Executive Presence for Impactful Leadership

the proof is in the results

Testimonials

  • "Betsy Gardner is a true visionary who understands the critical link between business success and community impact. Her leadership has not only driven remarkable growth but has also strengthened the fabric of our community. Betsy’s ability to unite business objectives with community values is what sets her apart as a leader who truly makes a difference."

    Garry Jones, President 
    Full Sail University

  • “As a leader, Betsy understands that fostering a sense of belonging is not just a moral imperative but a strategic advantage. She creates inclusive environments where every voice is heard, empowering teams to collaborate and innovate, which ultimately drives our competitive edge in the market.”

    Markys Mackey, CEO
    Verity Construction

  • "Her passion for advancing women in leadership and fostering diverse teams is evident in every project she undertakes. Betsy is a true champion of inclusive leadership."

    Kelly Nierstedt, CEO
    Orlando Regional Medical Center

  • "Betsy’s global perspective, innovative solutions, unwavering integrity, and exceptional relationship-building skills make her a leader who consistently exceeds the expectations of even the most discerning stakeholders."

    Ryan DeVos, Vice President of Shareholder Engagement
    Orlando Magic

  • "Betsy’s sense of taste and style is as refined as it is visionary. Much like a perfectly balanced dish, her leadership blends creativity with precision, delivering results that are both sophisticated and impactful. Her ability to curate experiences—whether in the boardroom or at the table—is a testament to her impeccable taste and keen eye for detail."

    Mike Collantes, Michelin Star Chef
    Soseki

  • "Betsy’s high EQ and ability to energize teams into action have consistently delivered value beyond the bottom line. She is a leader who truly makes a difference.”

    Allan Keen, Trustee
    Rollins College

  • "Betsy doesn’t just advocate for sustainability—she quantifies it. Her double-bottom line approach seamlessly integrates commercial success with responsible environmental stewardship, ensuring that our businesses thrive while prioritizing the well-being of our planet.”

    Ryan Evans, CEO
    Chambers for  Innovation and Clean Energy

  • “Betsy’s expertise in board relations and governance is exceptional. She builds strong, collaborative relationships with board members and ensures that governance practices are both effective and aligned with our strategic goals. Her leadership in this area has been pivotal in driving the Chamber’s success.”

    Paul Dietrich, Managing Partner
    Maynard Nexen

I’m a life long learner, COMMITTED to growth.

With a background in history and a commitment to continuous learning, I actively contribute to various national, local and academic boards, where I share my expertise and drive impact. I've been honored with several "Woman of the Year" awards for my leadership in community development and sustainable growth.

    • University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
      Foreign Study - British History, 1990

    • University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
      BA, History, 1991

      Phi Beta Kappa, UF Hall of Fame, Outstanding Female Leader,
      Florida Blue Key

    • United States Chamber of Commerce, Washington DC
      Certificate, Institute for Organizational Management, 1990

    • Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy
      National Leadership Council

    • Seacoast Bank
      Community Board

    • Greater Orlando Builders Association
      Government Affairs Committee

    • Rollins College Department of Business
      Advisory Board

    • Finalist, National Chamber of the Year

    • Grand Prize, North American Chamber Innovation

    • Orange Appeal Magazine
      “Woman of the Year”

    • Orlando Business Journal
      “Women Who Mean Business”

    • Orlando Magazine
      “Women Who Move the City”
      “Women of the Year”

    • Women’s Executive Council
      “Woman of the Year”

join the conversation

I love to dive into meaningful conversations with fellow leaders and innovators. In these podcast episodes, I share insights on leadership, community building, and the challenges and triumphs that come with being the CEO of the Winter Park Chamber. Whether you're looking for inspiration or practical advice, I invite you to listen in and join the conversation.

Podcast Episodes

my recent episodes

B Student Podcast

Winter Park Gets a Taste of Puerto Rico with Celebrity Chef Mario Pagán

Emotional Intelligence with guest Nick Seidule

B Student Podcast

B Student Podcast

Can We Trust AI to Make Ethical Decisions?

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say hello to new POSSIBILITIES.

This is your opportunity to elevate your organization to new heights. Whether it’s strategic consulting, keynote speaking, executive coaching, or transforming your business model, I'm here to help.

Please fill in the form, and I’ll be in touch soon.

Learn more about the Winter Park Chamber, click here.