49. Why Creativity and Curiosity Matter in Leadership | Jennifer Deery | B Student

Today on the B-Student Podcast, Ashley Billings interviews Jennifer Deery, Executive Director of the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens, about her journey from corporate banking leadership to nonprofit arts and culture leadership in Winter Park, Florida.Jennifer shares how growing up moving frequently helped shape her adaptability, curiosity, and leadership style. She opens up about earning her Fine Arts degree, working as an art director in the corporate world, and eventually transitioning into museum leadership and nonprofit management.This episode explores:Career pivots and professional reinventionLeadership lessons from corporate and nonprofit spacesWhy arts and culture matter to local economiesThe impact of museums and cultural institutionsThe story and legacy of sculptor Albin PolasekCreativity, curiosity, and lifelong learningHow art inspires innovation and community connectionWinter Park’s thriving arts and culture sceneStroke awareness and resilience through creativityAdvice for young creatives and aspiring leadersJennifer also shares exciting updates about upcoming exhibits, educational programming, collaborations with local organizations, and the museum’s vision for the future as it celebrates 65 years.If you’re passionate about leadership, creativity, entrepreneurship, nonprofit work, museums, community development, or personal growth, this conversation is packed with valuable insight.Time Stamps:00:00 – Introduction to Jennifer Deery & the Polasek Museum02:08 – Childhood influences, travel, and discovering museums04:12 – Jennifer’s first year leading the museum06:18 – The future vision for the Polasek Museum08:03 – Transitioning from board member to Executive Director10:38 – Why arts and culture are economic drivers in Winter Park13:02 – Collaboration between local museums and cultural organizations15:02 – Jennifer’s career path from art school to corporate leadership17:20 – Creativity, psychology, and leadership in business18:55 – Museum tourism and attracting visitors from around the world20:02 – Upcoming exhibits, events, and community programming23:24 – Albin Polasek’s resilience after stroke & advice for creativesListen to more episodes of The B-Student Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.Like this video, subscribe, and comment your favorite London spot or what city has most transformed you.-----------------------------------Connect with our Jennifer:Website:  https://polasek.org/LinkedIn: @jennifer-deeryInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/polasekmuseum/-----------------------------------Learn More about Winter Park Chamber of Commerce: https://www.winterpark.org/Podcast produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/