DISCOVER THE KEYS TO ACHIEVING SUCCESS!

The NextGen™ Speaker Series brings together business and community leaders to foster Leadership, Mentorship, Empowerment and Philanthropy. Engage with local business professionals and be inspired by the remarkable stories of success from world-renowned entrepreneurs and CEOs.

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NextGen™ Speaker Series

The prestigious NextGen™ Speaker Series brings together some of America's most distinguished business leaders in the beautiful city of Naples, Florida. This exceptional event features keynote speakers who are globally recognized entrepreneurs and CEOs, generously sharing their remarkable life journeys with a select audience by exclusive invitation.

The NextGen™ Speaker Series began when Michael Benson, Managing Partner of Benson Blackburn, invited industry leaders to his office for a mentorship session with his team. Even though Michael was familiar with the stories, he was so moved by the experiences shared that he felt compelled to extend this wisdom and inspiration to the wider community. And so the NextGen™ Speaker Series was established.

As the founder, Benson Blackburn has, along with the Visionary Sponsors, successfully hosted 35 NextGen™ Speaker Series events, drawing over 6,000 attendees.

In an effort to engage with and guide the community, the NextGen™ Speaker Series collaborates with Naples Comprehensive Health, the Greater Naples Chamber, the Community Foundation of Collier County, the Immokalee Foundation, Florida Gulf Coast University and Ave Maria School of Law. These partnerships aim to inspire business executives, aspiring business professionals, deans, and students by inviting them to learn from these influential industry leaders. As lifelong learners, speakers will often return to NextGen™ events to hear the stories of their peers.

During each session, Benson Blackburn selects a "focused charitable organization" in tribute to the featured speaker. These chosen charities have included The Shelter for Abused Women and Children, The First Tee of Naples, The Immokalee Foundation, American Cancer Society, NCH Healthcare System, the Naples Children & Education Foundation, and Leadership Collier Foundation. To date, NextGen™ has donated over $150,000 to local charities.

2026 Season

Marillyn A. Hewson

Jan 21
Former Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer at Lockheed Martin

BIO
Jay & Patty Baker

Feb 18
He’s the former CEO of Kohl’s, she’s a Broadway Producer, and together they are Superstar Philanthropists

BIO
Rusty Wallace

Mar 18
NASCAR Legend & Hall of Famer

BIO

MEMBERSHIP

Join an exclusive circle of leaders, innovators, and decision-makers. A NextGen Membership offers unparalleled access to high-calibre speakers, cutting-edge ideas, and the connections that move business forward.

Get unlimited yearly access to the entire NextGen Speaker Series Library, including upcoming and past events.

By invitation only.

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A copy of The Power of Connection, by Joe Sweeney (our guest speaker on 2/12/25) - five-time NY Times Best-selling Author and Executive Coach.
NextGen Membership gives you a seat at this season’s live events on January 21st, February 18th, and March 18th.
Get on-demand access to our video archive of past events.
Connect with community of leaders, innovators, decision-makers, and make high-value business connections.