Christina Payton
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
I moved to Naples from Chicago in 2015 with no clients, one salon chair, and $1,000 in my bank account. I didn't have any investors or a blueprint. Just a passion for the beauty industry and a strong belief that education, integrity and hard work could build something meaningful. Over time, that small chair grew into The House of Blondes, a salon known for specialized blondes and all advanced color techniques. What I'm most proud of isn't the business itself, but the team and culture we have built—one focused on growth, mentorship and creating long-term career stylists and changing the game for our industry.
Have you had any female mentors or role models who shaped your path?
I've been fortunate to learn from many strong women throughout my career, both inside and outside of the beauty industry. Early on, I looked up to artists and educators who showed me that mastery of your craft and commitment to education can open incredible doors. But I've also been inspired by the women around me every day—my team, our clients, and even the women in our community who are doing remarkable things in their own spaces. Building a clientele and business from the ground up required the same discipline, faith and persistence. That experience taught me that when you stay committed and consistent, incredible opportunities can grow from even the smallest beginnings.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar path?
Focus on your craft. Stay humble, and never stop learning. Success rarely happens overnight, but consistency and passion compound over time. Surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow and who genuinely want to see you win.
Are there any local organizations, initiatives, or causes that are especially meaningful to you?
Giving back is something that's very important to me. I'm a proud supporter of organizations like Path2Freedom and StarAbility, both of which do incredible work empowering individuals and creating opportunities within our community. Through House of Blondes, we also host makeover giveaways—we call it 'Gifting Day'—where community members nominate someone who rarely takes time for themselves.
Rhonda Rabold
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
I serve as the Brand Director for Azul Cosmetic Surgery and Medical Spa, a practice that has delivered exceptional cosmetic and aesthetic services to our community for more than 25 years. My professional journey has enabled me to oversee a variety of specialties, instilling in me compassion, gratitude, and resilience. At this stage in my life and career, empowering and uplifting women is a central focus, and this field provides a meaningful platform to support that mission.
Have you had any female mentors or role models who shaped your path?
I have been fortunate to be surrounded by exceptional women throughout my life, starting with my mother and sister. Today, I continue to learn from my adult daughters, both of whom serve in the healthcare profession where compassion, resilience and critical thinking are so important. I also had a manager who taught me the value and importance of diplomacy in leadership and communication.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar path?
Healthcare management is less about managing processes and more about leading people. Those who succeed in this field understand the importance of clear communication, strong relationship-building, patience, and compassion.
If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of life advice, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to break through the boundaries others set and never settle for limitations placed upon you. Learn to recognize the difference between expectations and true requirements, and stand firm in your principles.
What's a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
I once worked under a manager who lacked care, compassion, and understanding. As a single mother working full time, there were moments when my children needed to come first, yet that reality was not acknowledged. That experience ultimately shaped my leadership perspective and taught me the kind of leader I never want to become.
What's a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?
Hope is not a strategy in life, business, or relationships. Progress and success require clarity, commitment, and purposeful action.
Ana Oates
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
Design has always been something that felt instinctive to me, but my professional journey has been shaped over more than fourteen years of working in the luxury residential design industry. During that time, I've had the privilege of collaborating on exceptional custom homes and learning from incredibly talented architects, builders, and craftspeople. What has always inspired me most is the process of bringing a home to life—studying the architecture, understanding how a family lives, and carefully layering materials, textures, and furnishings to create something that feels both beautiful and deeply personal. Today my work continues to focus on creating sophisticated yet livable interiors that feel timeless, comfortable, and tailored to the people who inhabit them.
Have you had any female mentors or role models who shaped your path?
I wouldn't say there has been one specific mentor who shaped my path. Much of my journey has come from learning alongside and observing talented people—both men and women—who brought incredible skill and dedication to their work. That collaborative environment has been one of the most valuable aspects of my career.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar path?
My advice would be to stay curious, work hard, and truly immerse yourself in the craft. Design is an industry where experience is incredibly valuable, and so much of what you learn comes from being in the room, asking questions, and paying close attention.
What's a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
A defining moment was realizing that growth often comes through the challenges and uncertainties along the way. Over the years I learned that trusting my instincts and remaining passionate about the work were just as important as the technical aspects of design. That perspective shaped the way I approach both my career and my life—with patience, resilience, and a commitment to creating work that is thoughtful and meaningful.
What's a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?
I've always believed in the idea reflected in the quote often attributed to Confucius: 'Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.' When you're passionate about your craft, the work never really feels like work.
Krista Arsenault
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
Our newest project, Ce Soir, is an upcoming modern French restaurant at Bayfront in Naples that will feature a moody, elegant dining room, a vibrant bar, and a beautiful raw bar. The restaurant will also showcase a Josper oven from Spain—a unique charcoal oven known for bringing incredible depth of flavor to both seafood and meats. The goal is to create a sophisticated yet welcoming space where people can gather for a memorable dinner and stay to enjoy the energy of the evening. My path into the hospitality world really began when I met my husband, John, who has spent many years in the restaurant industry. Through him I was introduced to the creativity, excitement, and dedication that go into building restaurants, and over time I developed a real passion for food, dining, and the experience hospitality can create.
Have you had any female mentors or role models who shaped your path?
While I didn't follow a traditional mentorship path, I've always been inspired by women who build meaningful lives and communities around them. I admire women who lead with confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose—whether that's in business, family life, or philanthropy.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar path?
Don't be afraid to take opportunities even if you don't feel completely ready. Many of the most rewarding experiences in life come from learning along the way and growing into new challenges. Stay curious and surround yourself with people who inspire you.
Are there any local organizations, initiatives, or causes that are especially meaningful to you?
As a parent of a child with autism, initiatives that support neurodiverse children and their families are especially meaningful to me. One organization that is very close to my heart is Autism Collier Charter School, which provides specialized education and opportunities for children on the autism spectrum. We are currently helping raise funds for the school, and it's incredibly inspiring to see the community come together to support a cause that can make such a meaningful difference.
Linda Celauro
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
I was a single mom working almost every day to take care of myself and my daughter. I worked at Verizon for many years as well. Through it all, the experience shaped me into who I am—resilient, resourceful, and deeply grateful for every opportunity.
Have you had any female mentors or role models who shaped your path?
One of my first bosses told me she'd rather be happy than sad, so I've learned to incorporate happiness in my life. That simple philosophy has stayed with me ever since.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar path?
Listen to your inner voice always! If you feel something is right, don't let anyone talk you out of it. Go for it!
Are there any local organizations, initiatives, or causes that are especially meaningful to you?
Women Empowering Women and anything to do with protecting children.
If you could master any skill overnight, what would it be?
Technology, hands down.
What's a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
Becoming a mother. The world's perspective changes completely when you have a child to love and protect.
What's a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?
I always said to myself early in the morning, 'I'm such a mess!'—and by the end of the day I realized I was doing better than I gave myself credit for. That reminder keeps me grounded.
What's the legacy you hope to leave for the next generation of women in Naples?
Be your true, authentic self. People love real, genuine people.
What's been your proudest moment—personally or professionally?
Becoming a mom. And having amazing promotion opportunities over the years—but I turned down most of them to stay close to home and raise my child. Family always first.
What's one luxury you allow yourself, guilt-free?
A good massage and time to myself—both are non-negotiable.
Erin Leigh Lintz
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
I'm the founder of Leigh Luxe Upholstery, where we specialize in automotive, marine, and commercial upholstery, blending craftsmanship with custom design and restoration. Originally from New Jersey, I eventually made Florida home, and much of what I love personally now overlaps with the work I do professionally. I'm an avid car enthusiast and a Florida girl at heart, so from custom interiors to marine projects, the lifestyle here naturally aligns with the work I create. Naples is a place that values beauty, detail, and experience, which reflects the standard I bring to every project. As a single mother, building this business has been deeply personal, and that same journey also led me to create the Unbreakable Mothers podcast—a space for honest conversations around motherhood, growth, faith, and identity.
What's a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
Becoming a mother changed the way I approach everything. It gave me clarity, discipline, and a deeper sense of purpose. As a single mother, you learn quickly how to lead even when life feels uncertain—and that mindset shaped both my business and the way I show up in the world.
What's a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?
Faith first, excellence always. I believe in trusting God fully while still doing the work with discipline, integrity, and intention.
Where do you see the future of women in leadership, business, or community involvement heading?
I think women are redefining leadership in a powerful way—leading businesses, families, and communities without having to choose just one identity. Strength and softness can coexist, and that's where real influence lives.
What's the legacy you hope to leave for the next generation of women in Naples?
I hope my legacy shows that women can build something meaningful without losing who they are—that you can be feminine, resilient, ambitious, and grounded all at once.
What's been your proudest moment—personally or professionally?
Launching Leigh Luxe Upholstery as a single mother and watching it grow into something real and respected in this community. Every project completed and every client who trusts my work is a proud moment.
What's one luxury you allow yourself, guilt-free?
Time alone to recharge—whether that's a quiet morning, a long drive, or just space to think. As a mother and a business owner, silence is the ultimate luxury.
Noel King
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
I'm a biotech talent strategist for high-impact startups turned Naples-based founder, building a life and business at the intersection of science, luxury, and wellness. After two decades in biotechnology, my adult diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes and autoimmune challenges revealed how true wellbeing demands a holistic blend of pristine organic nutrition, cutting-edge science, and an active lifestyle. This philosophy birthed Hibiscus Market, my haven of elevated essentials where Naples tastemakers source local organic harvests and global treasures via seamless VIP concierge service—it's wellness as ritual, where science fuels longevity and coastal elegance thrives.
What's a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
My diagnosis completely reframed my sense of purpose. When your body demands that you pay attention, you stop moving through life on autopilot. I stopped optimizing for external success and started building around what truly sustains me—and that shift became the foundation for everything I do now.
What's a personal mantra or philosophy you live by?
Science and soul are not opposites—they're partners. I believe in using every tool available, from data and research to intuition and faith, to build a life that is both high-performing and deeply meaningful.
Where do you see the future of women in leadership, business, or community involvement heading?
I think women are redefining what influence looks like. We're leading in spaces that weren't built for us and building new ones where everyone is welcome. The future belongs to women who are unapologetically whole—ambitious and grounded, scientific and spiritual, strong and soft.
What's the legacy you hope to leave for the next generation of women in Naples?
I hope to leave a legacy that shows Naples' next generation of women that there is no ceiling on what you can create when you align your gifts with your values. Wellness, beauty, and purpose are not indulgences—they are foundations.
What's been your proudest moment—personally or professionally?
Creating Hibiscus Market while managing a chronic illness and building a new life in Naples. Every order fulfilled and every client I serve is proof that your hardest season can birth your greatest work.
What's one luxury you allow yourself, guilt-free?
Organic wine, sunshine, and doing absolutely nothing on a Tuesday afternoon—guilt-free.
Lauren Rossi
Tell us about yourself and your business. Can you share a bit about your journey—what led you to where you are today?
I’m the team lead of Gulf Coast Luxury Group at John R. Wood Properties here in Naples, where I lead a team of eight incredible real estate professionals. I’ve been in real estate for six years, but my foundation started with a decade-long background in marketing, which has been instrumental in how I position properties and build our brand.
Originally, I’m from New York, but Naples and Marco Island were always part of my life growing up. My family and I vacationed here for years before officially planting roots in 2013. That connection made the transition into selling luxury real estate here feel very natural.
Over time, what started as a personal leap into real estate evolved into building a team and a business that focuses not just on transactions, but on relationships, strategy, and delivering a high-level experience. Today, we’re proud to serve clients across Southwest Florida, from first homes to luxury properties.
What advice would you give to young women looking to follow a similar path?
Start now. Bet on yourself sooner.
I spent years pouring my energy into building other people’s businesses before I finally took that leap for myself. I wish I had done it earlier. There’s never going to be a “perfect” time, and waiting for one only delays your growth.
If you have the drive and the vision, take the risk. You’ll figure things out along the way, and the lessons you learn along the way will always outweigh the comfort of staying where you are.
What’s a defining moment in your life that shaped your perspective or approach?
Losing my younger brother completely shifted my perspective on life.
It was a reminder that time isn’t promised, and it changed the way I approach everything, from my career to my relationships.
In many ways, I feel like I’m living not just for myself, but for both of us. That mindset has made me more intentional, more driven, and more appreciative of every step along the way. He was a go-getter and so intelligent, creative, and funny. I hope to honor his legacy daily!