Oak Leyden The Intersection #11 Marilynn Gardner Full Episode

Описание: Episode 11 of The Intersection features R.J. McMahon (CEO of Oak Leyden) in conversation with Marilynn Gardner, the President & CEO of Navy Pier—one of Chicago’s most iconic brands and a mission-driven nonprofit destination.

What does it take to lead “The People’s Pier” with purpose—while protecting an institution that represents Chicago to the world? In Episode 11 of The Intersection, host R.J. McMahon, CEO of Oak Leyden, sits down with Marilynn Gardner, President & CEO of Navy Pier, to explore leadership, community impact, and what’s next for one of the Midwest’s most visited cultural destinations.

Marilynn shares what’s new and evolving at Navy Pier—from year-round programming and partnerships to the bigger vision of keeping the lakefront welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive for everyone. She also opens up about “doing good works” through a nonprofit lens, how purpose-driven leadership shapes decisions, and why investing in experiences for Chicago youth matters for the city’s future.

Navy Pier’s impact is massive: its 2024 report highlights 8.5 million guests welcomed and 342 free arts, culture, and tenant partnership programs delivered in a single year—proof that “destination” and “community benefit” can live in the same place. If you care about civic leadership, Chicago’s cultural economy, or building brands that serve people (not just metrics), this episode is for you.

About Marilynn Gardner -
Marilynn Gardner has led Navy Pier as President & CEO since 2011, after rising through leadership roles across programming, operations, and communications. She’s widely credited with helping drive Navy Pier’s major redevelopment and guiding its transition into an independent nonprofit organization.

Navy Pier by the numbers-
8.5 million guests welcomed in 2024 (Navy Pier “2024 at a Glance”).
342 free arts, culture, and tenant partnership programs in 2024.
Navy Pier is described as drawing over nine million visitors annually and as Chicago’s second most visited tourist attraction.

The Intersection podcast, Oak Leyden, R.J. McMahon, Marilynn Gardner, Navy Pier President and CEO, Navy Pier nonprofit, Chicago leadership, purpose-driven leadership, Chicago tourism, community impact, civic leadership, Chicago youth programs, Navy Pier events, cultural destination Chicago, nonprofit executive leadership.

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