Freedom to Rise

United Way Suncoast
  • 5.0 (5)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From school superintendents to elected officials and business leaders, learn more about the people making a difference in the community with this informative and engaging podcast that highlights United Way Suncoast's lasting impact.

  1. JAN 5

    United Way Suncoast CEO Jessica Muroff

    United Way Suncoast CEO Jessica Muroff describes her six years leading this organization as one of the greatest honors of her life. On this special episode of the Freedom To Rise podcast, host Bronwyn Beightol reviews Jessica's most significant accomplishments during her tenure, and why United Way Suncoast will always hold a special place in her heart. She leaves the organization on Jan. 9 to embark on a new career path as CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

    32 min

  2. 11/12/2025

    Transforming Philanthropy with Go United

    In this episode, the Freedom to Rise Podcast explores how United Way Suncoast is reshaping the future of giving through Go United, a new digital platform built to connect donors more deeply with the causes they care about. Bronwyn is joined by United Way Suncoast Chief of Staff Heather Navratil and Rev Star Consulting Product Manager Priya Rudas about how this innovative portal bridges technology and empathy making philanthropy more personal, transparent, and engaging.

    20 min

  3. 10/14/2025

    Rebuilding Together: Jose Garcia on Revitalizing Communities and Strengthening Resilience

    In this episode of the Freedom to Rise Podcast, Bronwyn chats with Jose Garcia, CEO of Rebuilding Together Greater Florida discussing disaster recovery, affordable housing preservation, and their partnership with United Way Suncoast to create workforce and training opportunities.  For over 25 years, Garcia has led efforts to repair homes and restore hope, expanding the organization from one to six locations, and his team's work has been recognized nationally by Time Magazine. Hear how Rebuilding Together Greater Florida is building stronger, more resilient communities across the state.

    39 min

  4. 09/16/2025

    Tackling Climate Change, Health, and Housing with Congresswoman Kathy Castor

    Bronwyn invites Congresswoman Kathy Castor to the Freedom to Rise podcast to explore the urgent challenges shaping our communities today. With nearly two decades of service in Congress, Rep. Castor shares insights on combating climate change, strengthening disaster resiliency, and creating opportunities for good-paying jobs. She also addresses the rising concerns around healthcare access, veteran support, and the looming threats to essential safety net programs like SNAP and Medicaid. They also discuss housing affordability and highlight the importance of community engagement and bold policy solutions to ensure every Floridian has the freedom to not just survive, but thrive.

    29 min

  5. 08/27/2025

    From Paper Checks to Financial Stability: Navigating the Transition with Bank On Suncoast

    The federal government will stop issuing paper checks for most benefit payments beginning in September. This change could create real challenges for unbanked individuals who rely on check-cashing outlets.  On this episode of the Freedom to Rise Podcast, we explore how the Bank On Suncoast program, a collaborative initiative led by United Way Suncoast and regional partners, is helping ensure everyone has access to safe and affordable banking. Joining us is Mark Smith, Financial Security Manager at United Way Suncoast, and Kathleen Cramer, Executive Director of Turning Points, a Bradenton nonprofit that empowers individuals and families on their path to financial stability and independence.

    31 min

  6. 05/27/2025

    Disaster Preparedness: Building Resilience Before the Winds Rise

    Hurricane season officially begins June 1st; and if you're feeling almost prepared, you're not alone. In this special episode of the Freedom to Rise Podcast, we’re leaning into hurricane preparedness and the power of community partnerships.  Thanks to a grant from Verizon through United Way Worldwide, we're amplifying our efforts during National Hurricane Preparedness Month to ensure that our neighbors are ready. Not just to face storms, but to recover from them stronger than before.  Bronwyn welcomes Vice President of Investments and Partnership Strategies Josh Dunn and Disaster Resilience Officer Heather Koester to discuss getting better prepared, how United Way Suncoast supports long-term recovery, the lessons learned from Hurricanes Debbie, Helene, and Milton, and why resilience starts before the storm hits.

    46 min

  7. 05/12/2025

    Affordable and Workforce Housing with Florida Housing Coalition Chief Legal and Policy Director Kody Glazer

    When we delve into the topic of affordable and workforce housing in this state, issues pop up like dollar weed on a Florida lawn. What can be done to address an issue that weighs on our economy and weakens our labor force? On this episode of the Freedom To Rise podcast, we talk to Kody Glazer, the Florida Housing Coalition's Chief Legal and Policy Director, about this pressing state issue.

    25 min

  8. 04/14/2025

    Employer Provided Childcare with Molly Grant and Madeleine Thankur

    In this episode of the Freedom to Rise Podcast, host Bronwyn Beightol welcomes Molly Grant, Executive Director of the Association of Early Learning Coalitions, and Madeleine Thakur, President and CEO of The Children’s Movement of Florida. Together, they explore Florida’s new 2024 tax credit designed to incentivize employer-supported childcare—whether through on-site facilities or partnerships with community-based providers. This policy aims to support working families, strengthen the state’s workforce, and improve outcomes for children.  Join us as we delve into what this means for Florida’s future and how employers can play a critical role in early learning access and equity.

    33 min
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5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

From school superintendents to elected officials and business leaders, learn more about the people making a difference in the community with this informative and engaging podcast that highlights United Way Suncoast's lasting impact.

Information

  • Creator
    United Way Suncoast
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    58
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Freedom to Rise
  • Show Website
    Freedom to Rise