Page 18 - LIN_April_2026_web-file

Keep Chatting.

Keep Connecting.

by Lois Bolin, Ph.D., Old Naples Historian
uman beings are wired for connection My next encounter came when 239Live had a rare glitch, so Jess
from the moment we are born. We and I began chatting on air while the techies worked. This rapping
Hare constantly looking for warmth, soul sister is a mother, life-partner with hubby, Christopher Lee,
and a sense of belonging - it is a fundamental who is one of three partners at the Mini Bar -“a multi-concept
part of our psychology. Interactions with fresh destination that includes an outdoor island oasis offering ‘Super
faces stimulates our brains, challenges our Brunch,’ Naples’ first speakeasy, a relaxed, upscale lounge, a New
paradigms, and often brings a lively wave of York-themed alley bar with late-night bites, and weekly live music,
excitement into the normal humdrum of our everyday living. all within one walkable location in the Naples Design District”
Whether you are chatting up someone at a coffee shop or a new (Haute Living magazine).
community event, those interactions create faint but significant Where I really connected with her was my first look at her
impacts on our mental health. web page which read, “Welcome, sis…be true, be vibrant, be
Chatter Up unapologetically you.” I swear I heard Matthew McConay say, “All
For the past few months, every Tuesday and Friday from right...all right…all right.”
10 am-noon, I’ve had the pleasure of serving as host on the The Statement Peace brand began in her home and is now in
Podcast 239Live. Formerly I served on Friday Fun Day bringing 2,700 stores across the country. This brand, as Jess likes to say, is a
information on events, local history, and veterans. vibe. This sustainable brand showcases wooden jewelry and other
Now I have the opportunity of inviting guests or interviewing apparel but at the heart of it is a company that conveys a sense of
guests whom I’ve not met before or those whom I thought I tranquility, peace and positivity. “Simply put - it’s about connection.”
knew. (StatementPeace.com)
One of those guests that I thought I knew was Elizabeth Connection Point
Valdez, Navy Veteran and owner of Paradise Food Tours, At the heart of these wonderful connections is Kevin Wilkerson,
which offers culinary adventures in Naples and Bonita Springs, the owner of 239Live and owner of TGC+, the General Contractor
showcasing local restaurants and flavors. These sought after tours Plus, which explains why the studio is so versatile and charming.
include various themes, such as Mexican and Italian cuisine, and Who knew? I always thought he owned a gym until we began
are designed for both visitors and locals. She is also co-owner of chatting. (239-877-2293)
a long-standing family transportation business with her husband, While Kevin is the heart, Diana Solias, producer and engineer, is
Driven SWFL. the lil’ engine on red bull that keeps the show running smoothly and
Now I knew that. But what I didn’t know is that this looking fabulous online.
entrepreneur, veteran, and mother is a passionate advocate for Two other stellar professionals who co-host on Tuesday and
vulnerable children. After experiencing foster care, juvenile Fridays (along with Jess) are the divine Kristen Weardon, Naples
detention, and homelessness as a teenager, Elizabeth developed Icon podcaster and Life Coaching Realtor whose face was all over
deep empathy for children in crisis—powering a lifelong Times Square on NYE; and Erin Leigh Lintz, owner of Leigh Luxe
commitment to advocacy. Grounded in her Christian faith Upholstery and Unbreakable Mother’s Podcast.
and family life, she is now a dedicated champion of 4KIDS It's a Wrap
Southwest Florida. She recently spoke at their annual luncheon There are endless values in human connection. Whether it’s
and shared her experience, leadership, and community through local events, friends, or digital platforms, the result is
connections to inspire generosity, compassion, and lasting impact the same — enrichment. Our need for connection is timeless -
for children and families across the region. technology simply expands our opportunities.
(ParadiseFoodTours.com) Dr. Bolin on 239LIVE !
Statement Peace Please join in the chatter on 239Live via FB and IG
In Skope Entertainment Inc.: Diverse Music Media for
the Digital Age stated that the act of meeting new people is on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. - noon.
more than just small talk. It is about discovering our shared
experiences, valuing different backgrounds, and multiplying
our worldview. My first introduction to Jessica Lee, owner of
Statement Peace, expanded my world view as I wondered how
this glamorous bohemian-style lady knew so many rap songs.

18 www.LifeInNaples.net
18