Introduction

Jo-Lynn Brown is the managing editor at Tampa Bay Business & Wealth Magazine. She is a native of St. Petersburg and graduated from University of South Florida St. Petersburg with a B.A. in journalism. Brown graduated from Leadership Tampa Bay in 2020, and is currently on the communications committee for the organization. Before being named chairwoman of the ISPS board, in August 2022, she was on its strategic planning committee.

Years in St. Pete

Organizations involved in

ISPS and Leadership Tampa Bay

What gets you out of bed every day?

My alarm clock? I’m half joking … I truly love the work I do, the people I do it with and the audience I do it for. I get to meet, and befriend, some of the most generous, intelligent people in our community. And I’ll be honest, I get to have a lot of fun. I’m truly spoiled. 

Why St. Pete?

St. Petersburg is a special place and continues to evolve as the years go by. I’ve spent time in other metros and always end up back here. It’s beautiful and such a fun place to work, live and play. 

What is one habit that you keep?

Friend’s birthdays. I like to go overboard and do silly things to make them smile. I have the best friends one could hope for and they deserve to feel special. Whether they like it or not. Sometimes they would rather me not, but I don’t listen well …

Who are some people that influence you?

Goodness, how much space do you have for this? I could list so many. But the one that comes to mind is my boss, mentor and friend, Bridgette Bello. She has a wealth of knowledge on so many human experiences, both personally and professionally. In the 12 years I’ve worked alongside of her, I’ve learned so much. She will give you tough love when needed, but you’ll be better for it. 

What is one piece of insight - a book, methodology, practice - that you would share with our readers?

This is a new insight. As a writer, I fell out of reading for “fun” some time ago because my brain is often mush by the time my day is through, but have recently picked up the hobby again. Read three books, at any given time. One for your mind, one for your craft and one for fun. Stimulate all those parts of your brain. It’s good for you! 

What is one thing you wish you knew about your work 3 years ago?

It’s not going to get easier. But that’s not a bad thing! I think we believe there will be a point where you’ve figured it out and can relax a bit, but that is just not the case in what I do. My calendar, and priorities, change minute-to-minute. Best to embrace it and be nimble. Take your work seriously, but never take yourself seriously. Laugh at the absurdity and find a tribe that laughs with you. 

What’s next?

I”m pretty sure I’m on deadline for something …