Episode 143

The ROI of Investing in Creativity with Theresa Smith-Levin

What if the arts are about far more than entertainment? Theresa Smith-Levin, Founder and Executive Director of Central Florida Vocal Arts, sees the arts as a powerful way to build connection, confidence, and community. We explore how her organization has expanded access to arts education and performance opportunities while growing into a lasting community presence. Theresa shares lessons on leading with clear values, building authentic relationships, and continuing forward even when the path feels daunting.

We also discuss the challenges of balancing leadership, motherhood, passion, and burnout and why communities benefit from investing in arts and culture. We close by considering what it means to make choices that reflect who we are and the future we want to build.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Building community through the arts
  • Leading with clear values and authentic relationships
  • Balancing passion, leadership, motherhood, and burnout
  • The role of arts education in confidence, courage, and belonging
  • Investing in arts and culture to strengthen communities
  • Making long-term choices that align with your values

Resources from this Episode

amycalandrino.com

creorlando.com

thecalandrinofoundation.org

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Episode Credits

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About the Podcast

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Commercial Real Estate, Business & Long-Term Thinking

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About your host

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Amy Calandrino

Amy Calandrino, SIOR, CCIM, is a Director at Cushman & Wakefield with deep experience representing small and mid-sized businesses, family enterprises, and private investors throughout Central Florida and beyond. She is known for being a thoughtful listener, a creative problem-solver, and a strategic advisor who helps clients make informed decisions that support both their business goals and long-term wealth creation.

With a career rooted in guiding entrepreneurs and families through pivotal real estate moments, Amy brings clarity, structure, and actionable strategy to every assignment. She has completed hundreds of transactions across office, flex, and retail properties, and clients rely on her strong command of market trends, valuations, and space needs particularly within Winter Park and Greater Orlando. Her experience is backed by the SIOR and CCIM designations, reflecting her commitment to expertise and excellence in the industry.

In addition to her advisory work, Amy is the author of From Perfect to Real: Ditch Perfection, Shift Your Mindset, and Thrive on Your Terms, where she shares her SPORT Success System® for high performance. She is also the host of The Performance Mindset Show, a podcast featuring candid conversations with leaders in business, real estate, and entrepreneurship.

Committed to strengthening her community, Amy co-founded the Calandrino Foundation with her husband, Phil, to equip youth with the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurship and financial empowerment. She also serves on the Park Avenue District Board in Winter Park.

Amy lives in Central Florida with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, running, and staying active with her two children. Her faith, family, and dedication to helping others grow continue to guide her both personally and professionally.