#178 "The Kind Driver": Shelley Williams (VP, Sales for F1 Arcade) on Leading with Vision and Heart

🎙️ Episode Summary: In this emotionally resonant and energizing interview, Bart Berkey welcomes longtime friend and powerhouse hospitality leader Shelley Williams, who currently serves as VP of Sales for F1 Arcade. The episode unpacks her leadership journey, personal philosophy, and how her values align with her newest venture. From her early dreams of diplomacy to teaching English abroad, Shelley shares how her path organically led her to hospitality—driven by a deep-rooted desire to serve and elevate others. With a remarkable resume and leadership credibility, Shelley talks about what fuels her: kindness, vision, drive, inclusion, and the joy of helping people win. 🔑 Major Takeaways: 1. The Power of Kind Leadership Shelley leads with both vision and empathy—a rare combination. She believes in doing the right thing for the right people at the right time, often putting others first. Her drive is not about external recognition but internal fulfillment—“It’s selfish to help people because it makes me feel good.” 2. Winning Together Is the Goal Shelley’s leadership style is based on inclusive success: “I want everyone to win.” She emphasizes recognizing blind spots, supporting others from behind the scenes, and “bringing people under her wing.” 3. Deliberate Self-Improvement Shelley wakes up each day trying to beat herself from the day before. Her commitment to growth is rooted in honest self-reflection and personal alignment: “Are you really doing the right thing for your true self?” 4. F1 Arcade – More Than Just Fun As VP of Sales, Shelley is spearheading F1 Arcade's expansion in the U.S. It’s not just racing simulators—it's competitive socializing designed for multi-generational, inclusive team-building experiences. F1 Arcade merges high-energy engagement with luxury hospitality (think champagne and caviar), creating safe spaces for connection in today’s fragmented, tech-saturated world. 5. Visionary Leadership in Action Shelley absorbs insights through active listening and strategic thinking. She doesn’t just toss out blue-sky ideas—she presents well-processed, researched visions that inspire trust and action. 6. Authenticity is the Ultimate Destination Bart encourages Shelley (and listeners) to recognize when they're already “there”—living their purpose, adding value, and being aligned. The conversation ends on a powerful note of affirmation and appreciation for Shelley’s strength, kindness, and impact. 🧡 Final Gems: Most People Don’t… Think of others first – Shelley’s answer to Bart’s signature closing question. Bart reminds us that you can be both strong and soft, visionary and empathetic, driven and kind—and that’s what makes Shelley Williams exceptional. Plus Shelley is hiring to expand her team. Reach out to her here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleylwilliams/ Learn more about F1 Arcade here: https://f1arcade.com/us/ More about "Most People Don't": https://mostpeopledont.com