Simply Support Local was created for one purpose: a support local movement to foster community connection and share the passion behind the purpose. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how positive change often begins with passion, told through impactful stories.
I hope you enjoy these snapshots of people and brands who inspire others through their unique purpose and passions.
“One day, someone driven by purpose, creativity, and bold ideas decides, ‘I can make a difference. I’m worth it.” — Sonya Bradley
Bill Berry, a three-time World Juggling Champion and Guinness World Record-holding sword swallower, has traveled to more than 80 countries and every U.S. state, sharing his talents in over 7,000 performances. Author of two books and a resident of St. Pete, Florida, Bill also cultivates innovation at home with his microfarm while inspiring the community through mentorship, entrepreneurship, and embracing fear as fuel for growth.
How I Met Bill Berry: World-Class Entertainer, Writer, Connector, and Motivator
Ever had that colleague who always made you smile? I’ve always aimed to build teams filled with talent, positivity, and people who genuinely enjoy serving others.
I met Bill through my dance sister and friend, Maggi, in 2019. Maggi is a Contemporary instructor at Hip Expressions Belly Dance Studio and a professional stilt walker. I had just landed my first big marketing campaign, Late Nites at Westfield, a series that successfully ran for four years, during which I hired hundreds of talented local entertainers.
Bill stood out immediately: a sword swallower, world-class juggler, fire handler, clown, and crowd favorite who never hesitated to go the extra mile to make every event memorable.
Bill’s journey blends creativity, resilience, and a commitment to helping others shine. Originally from San Diego, he now calls St. Petersburg home. Today, he’s focused on writing his third book and mentoring others to embrace their fears, find focus, and move with intention—a wisdom earned from performing across 80 countries and holding multiple world records.
A Not-So-Hidden Micro Farm in St. Pete
A few years into our friendship, Bill invited me to his annual Christmas party, known in the entertainment community as the potluck not to miss. Until then, I knew him mainly as an exceptional performer. Yet arriving at his home, I was struck not only by the joy flooding the house but also by the lush garden wrapping around it.
Bill quietly nurtures one of St. Pete’s most impressive microfarms, featuring more than 80 varieties of fruiting trees and shrubs. His creativity thrives far beyond the stage. Bill continuously cultivates new roots, feeds his passion, and inspires joy in community through connection.
Passion Sparks Movement, Which Sparks Momentum
Since November 2024, our shared passion for writing has deepened our bond and fueled growth. Bill has become an outstanding accountability partner, encouraging me to face fears and build mental strength. When I’m in my mental gladiator arena, Bill is exactly the kind of momentum builder you want on your team.
Intention, movement, and momentum are planned into Bill’s daily life, along with a dedication to community and the belief that we learn from shared experiences. His first book, Stories That Move, reveals his lifelong fascination with movement, beginning as a baby intrigued by space and evolving into a career as a professional juggler, world champion, and Guinness World Record holder. For Bill, movement is more than physical; it’s a wellspring of creativity driving his storytelling, performances, and support for others.
“Write down your dreams, then dream even bigger.” — Bill Berry
Advice from a World Record Holder: Dream Bigger Than You Think Possible
Bill encourages those on creative paths to dare boldly: write down your dreams and dream even bigger. With decades of experience, multiple published books, and ongoing mentorship, he reminds us that what seems impossible today can become tomorrow’s reality.
Mission and Motivation
Bill’s why centers around helping others move past fear and self-sabotage by sharing his journey. From escaping dead-end jobs to cultivating “magical moments” in Stories That Move, he hopes readers will find solutions and guide others through similar challenges.
Favorite Memories
Two memories with Bill stand out. One is from the Late Nites pirate party when he handed me what appeared to be a five-foot sword he had swallowed. I laugh every time it pops up on Facebook. The other is his kindness; he often stayed late or came early to help me, gestures I value as much as his performances.
Bill recalls teaching balloon twisting to a fellow performer in a park. What began as a simple lesson quickly drew curious children, turning a practice session into a spontaneous moment of community connection. These experiences show how everyone longs to be seen; sometimes, one small invitation breaks down walls and creates a real connection.
Tampa Bay, a Community That Shapes Creatives and Entertainers
St. Petersburg’s vibrant arts scene, murals, and welcoming spirit have inspired both of us. For Bill, supporting local is more than a slogan; it’s a lifestyle. He champions a similar Simply Support Local movement and is a familiar presence at creative coworking spaces like Sumitra, Cozy Kava, The Blend, and Steep Station.
“The best part of creating outward in the world is sparking connection and collaboration among local creatives,” says Bill.
Supporting local means coming together with like-minded people, exchanging ideas, growing collectively, and celebrating every step of the journey.
Featured Projects & Ongoing Inspiration: Embracing the Flame
Bill’s latest book combines memoir with lessons from fire performance, using safe fire handling as a metaphor for facing fears and rethinking assumptions. He believes it is vital to continuously reevaluate what we think we know and remain open to new possibilities.
Behind the Scenes & How to Support
Bill’s life as a working artist is full of surprises and lessons, enough to fill many books. Now, he dedicates himself to mentoring others, forging their creative careers.
- Want to learn more or show your support?
- Find his books, Stories That Move and Embracing the Flame, on Amazon.
- Access exclusive content or coaching at patreon.com/mrbillberry.
- Follow him on social media @MrBillBerry.
Looking ahead, Bill is working on his third book, remodeling his home into a creative retreat for writers and artists, and continuing to inspire the community.
Why These Stories and Yours Belong Here
We cherish the things we love because of their stories. Stories inspire, create belonging, and fuel positive change. Bill’s journey demonstrates how purpose, creativity, and community combine to make a difference. Simply Support Local exists to amplify stories like his, turning local energy into lasting impact.
If you want to be featured, support our mission, or learn how to grow your brand authentically, connect with us at Simply Promotions. Together, we keep local businesses thriving, one story, one collaboration, and one sparkle of positivity at a time.
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