Reflections on the Florida Economic Club in Sarasota

“When good people gather together, a miracle happens.” — Iru.

When I began my professional path in Sarasota about three years ago, I made it a point to attend as many events as possible, not out of obligation, but out of genuine curiosity. I wanted to understand how things moved here, what people valued, and where true energy could be found.

Not every event resonates with me. I always look for spaces that are clear, warm, and intellectually stimulating—where the energy is natural and the conversations have substance. It’s not about scale or polish. It’s about tone—the right people, the proper focus, and an atmosphere that feels both light and meaningful.

I recall the first time I attended a Sarasota gathering of the Florida Economic Club, at one of their early events held at the Gator Club. I was personally invited by Mark Klecka, a well-known real estate agent and the founder of the popular Facebook group "I Love Downtown Sarasota." It was a smaller event—perhaps thirty people—and yet it had clarity. The atmosphere was relaxed but intentional. People were curious, present, and ready to engage. I remember speaking with three individuals that evening who, within a matter of weeks, became collaborators on real projects. That doesn’t happen often. But when the energy is right, things unfold naturally. From that event on, I encountered wonderful people and discovered inspiring future photo and writing projects. Event after event, I continued to meet outstanding individuals with whom I connected and later interviewed for my blog.

Curious to learn more, I looked into how it all began.

The Sarasota chapter of the Florida Economic Club launched over two years ago and holds its Community Leader Socials on the second Wednesday of every month (excluding July) in downtown Sarasota. These are cocktail-style events with a twist: in the middle of the evening, a speaker—always a local leader—delivers a short talk. No panels. No sales pitches. Just fifteen focused minutes, followed by a brief, moderated Q&A (questions and answers).

The founder, Ken Walters, is originally from Tampa and has been visiting Sarasota since childhood. "Back then, it was a little vacation town," he said. "But a few years ago, I started coming downtown again, and I was pleasantly surprised by how it has grown. The city felt so alive.”

Having already launched successful social events in Tampa and St. Pete starting in 2009, Ken saw real potential in Sarasota. He began by rotating events between the two cities. A few years later, the format evolved. “We added a little substance,” he explained. “Two-hour socials, with a community leader speaking briefly about what they know best—just enough to learn something and keep the energy going.”

Ken has always appreciated meaningful conversations and well-organized gatherings. From the outset, his idea was to bring together like-minded individuals and create a space where quality connections could occur naturally. The goal was never just casual networking—it was about thoughtful exchange, learning something useful, and connecting with people who are engaged in their community. “I go to a lot of events,” he said, “and I wanted to create one I’d genuinely enjoy attending.”

That meant keeping things clear and engaging. Speakers are given 15 minutes—just enough to share insights and keep the energy flowing. “If someone’s great, we let it go a little longer,” he added. “But the goal is always clarity. We want everyone to walk away with something valuable.”

The Q&A is also intentional. "We monitor it. Questions need to be interesting for the whole room. No rambling, no personal tangents.”

Speakers have included executives from Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Selby Gardens, and Sarasota-Bradenton Airport, among others. The Club aims for a diverse membership, encompassing nonprofits, tourism, government, and business sectors. As Ken put it, "We want a good mix.”

Membership is not required. General admission is $20. Members are recognized at events and receive access to an annual sunset yacht cruise in August hosted by a board member. Sarasota and Tampa Bay memberships are separate, though some people choose to join both. "We have eight board members here in Sarasota," he said, "local professionals who just enjoy what we’re doing and want to help.”

One of the newest board members, Gina Tedesco, met Jack Glasure, a longtime member, at the Club. They now collaborate on various projects. Connections like these are what the Club is about.

During our interview, Ken mentioned that he keeps a file of places to visit whenever he's in Sarasota. “One of the things in that file is your blog posts on historic homes,” he said. “I keep it because I want to visit those places. I like when storytelling and community intersect.” It was nice to hear Ken follows my blog, Bohemian Sarasota. I appreciated that detail—I also like knowing more about the places and people around me, and being connected.

It’s a simple idea, but it continues to bring thoughtful people into the same room.

The upcoming Florida Economic Club's Community Leader Social in Sarasota is scheduled for Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 5:30 PM at Rose & Ivy Steak, Sushi & Cocktails, located at 1296 1st St, Sarasota, FL. The guest community leader for this event is Adrianne Christy from the Florida Blockchain Business Association.

To learn more about The Florida Economic Club and their upcoming events, RSVP, or browse photos from past events, visit FloridaEconomicClub.org. High-resolution images are available upon request.

Photos: iruphotos.com

More pictures of the Community Leader Social Events can be seen here.