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 Museum

02:08 – Childhood influences, travel, and discovering museums

04:12 – Jennifer’s first year leading the museum

06:18 – The future vision for the Polasek Museum

08:03 – Transitioning from board member to Executive Director

10:38 – Why arts and culture are economic drivers in Winter Park