The business of philanthropy and kindness with Community Foundation Tampa Bay CEO Marlene Spalten

Marlene Spalten has overseen a major era of growth in her decade at the helm of one of the largest community foundations in Florida: the Community Foundation Tampa Bay now has more than $750 million in assets and donor-advised funds. On this episode, Marlene talks about her collaborative leadership style and how the foundation, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, has such high employee engagement and low employee turnover. Marlene also talks about the remarkable significance Valentine’s Day has played in her life.

3 Takeaways

1. (13:10) Be bold, you know more than you think you do
2. (13:50) Being able to recognize talent in others is a key leadership trait
3. (19:00) Make sure the right people are in the room

Timestamps

(00:00) This episode is sponsored by Kerkering Barberio!
(00:30) Introducing Marlene Spalten, President and CEO of Community Foundation Tampa Bay
(10:45) Becoming CEO of CFTB
(12:45) What have you learned from mentors?
(14:55) What do you look for in leaders?
(18:05) Setbacks you learned from
(20:45) What is coming for CFTB in 2025?

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