Food, Family, & Philanthropy

Michael Nathanson
  • 5.0 (25)
  • Sports
  • Updated Monthly

Hello and welcome to Food, Family, and Philanthropy, the podcast that combines my passions for real estate, family, food, sports, and most importantly, giving back to the community. I'm Michael Nathanson, and for nearly two decades, I've been working in the real estate business in beautiful South Florida. Throughout my career, I have found that the most rewarding experiences are those that involve giving back to the community. And that's why I decided to create this podcast: to explore how we can all make a difference through the many aspects of our lives. Whether it's supporting local businesses, connecting with loved ones, or getting involved in philanthropic endeavors, I believe we all have the power to positively impact the world. In each episode, I'll be joined by amazing guests – from restaurant owners to real estate professionals, to family members, friends, and mentors. We will discuss how we can use our passions and resources to create meaningful change in our communities. And, of course, we'll indulge in some delicious food along the way! So, whether you're a foodie, a philanthropist, a sports fan, or just someone who wants to make a difference in the world, I invite you to join me on this exciting journey. Follow us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and let's explore the many ways we can positively impact the world through food, family, and philanthropy!

  1. Aug 3

    Ep. 54 - From Cuba to Carnegie Hall and a Mission to Give Back

    Music education can shape a child's confidence, creativity, and future. For Yalyen Savingon, that belief became the driving force behind the Volta Music Foundation, where she is creating opportunities for underserved youth to discover the life-changing power of music. Michael Nathanson sits down with Yalyen to explore her remarkable journey from studying music in Havana, Cuba, to performing with renowned orchestras across the United States before launching a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to music education. She shares how her experiences inspired Volta Music Foundation's mission to provide free instruments, after-school music programs, cultural exchanges, mentorship, and unforgettable performance opportunities for young musicians. The conversation highlights the foundation's partnership with Carnegie Hall through the Link Up program, its after-school string education initiatives, and the impact of giving thousands of students the chance to perform on stage for the very first time. Yalyen also reflects on her family's support, the role music has played throughout her life, and why collaboration is essential to creating opportunities for the next generation. Whether you're passionate about music, education, philanthropy, or helping children reach their potential, this conversation is a powerful reminder that one opportunity can change the course of a young person's life. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

  2. Jul 27

    Ep. 53 - Why Investing in Local Nonprofits Changes Entire Communities

    Real community change doesn't happen by accident. It happens when people invest in local organizations that understand the needs of the neighborhoods they serve. Michael Nathanson sits down with Shannon Hawkins, Director of Community Engagement at the Quantum Foundation, to explore how the foundation supports grassroots nonprofits across Palm Beach County through strategic grantmaking, community partnerships, and its Quantum in the Community initiative. Shannon shares how the foundation looks beyond traditional healthcare by investing in organizations addressing food insecurity, housing, transportation, financial assistance, and other basic needs that directly impact health and well-being. They also talk about the importance of community engagement, why unrestricted funding can transform small nonprofits, how local organizations identify needs before anyone else, and why volunteering and giving back creates a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities. Along the way, Shannon shares stories about family, favorite local restaurants, basketball, music, and the experiences that inspired her career in philanthropy. If you're part of a nonprofit, looking for ways to get involved, or simply want to make a greater impact where you live, this conversation offers an inspiring look at how collaboration and local leadership can create meaningful, lasting change. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

  3. Jul 6

    Ep. 52 - How Love Serving Autism Is Changing Lives Through Tennis

    Finding the right place for a child with autism to feel included isn't always easy. That's exactly why Lisa Pugliese-LaCroix, Founder and Executive Director of Love Serving Autism, and Mara Friedman, Coach and Therapist Outreach Coordinator, have dedicated their work to creating welcoming sports programs where every athlete has the opportunity to grow. Michael Nathanson sits down with Lisa and Mara to talk about how Love Serving Autism has expanded across the country through tennis, pickleball, and padel while helping participants build communication skills, confidence, friendships, and independence. They share how speech therapy and adaptive coaching work together on the court, why evidence-based programming matters, and the life-changing impact these programs have on children, adults, and their families. The conversation also explores the organization's 10-year journey, the importance of trained coaches and volunteers, upcoming expansion, fundraising efforts, and why access to inclusive sports has never been more important. Along the way, they share stories about family, favorite restaurants, music, tennis, and the passion that continues to drive their mission forward. If you'd like to support Love Serving Autism, learn about volunteer opportunities, attend the annual gala, or help expand inclusive programming, this conversation is a great place to start. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

  4. Jun 22

    Ep. 51 - Frank Ramos on Water Contamination and the Future of Clean Water

    Most of us never think twice about turning on the tap. But what if the water we rely on every day contains far more than we realize? Michael Nathanson sits down with Frank Ramos, Founder and CEO of Save the Water, to discuss the growing challenges surrounding water quality, contamination, and public awareness. Frank shares his remarkable journey from immigrating to the United States from Cuba to becoming a chemical engineer, environmental advocate, and founder of a nonprofit dedicated to identifying and removing harmful contaminants from water sources. The conversation explores the Everglades Clean Drinking Water Initiative, forever chemicals, endocrine disruptors, water testing, and the science behind protecting drinking water for future generations. Frank also reflects on family, a 60-year marriage, volunteerism, fishing, community involvement, and why clean water is one of the most important issues facing our world today. Whether you're concerned about environmental protection, public health, water quality, or simply want to learn how one person can make a lasting impact, this conversation offers an eye-opening look at a resource many of us take for granted. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/ Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

  5. May 25

    Ep. 50 - Protecting Children and Strengthening Families with HomeSafe CEO Matthew Ladika and COO Amanda Stone

    When thousands of children and families in Palm Beach County hit a crisis, HomeSafe is often the first call. On this milestone 50th episode, host Michael Nathanson welcomes Matthew Ladika, CEO of HomeSafe, and Amanda Stone, LMHC, the organization's Chief Operations Officer, for a candid conversation about what it truly takes to protect children and rebuild lives in South Florida. Matthew walks through HomeSafe's full range of services: four specialized therapeutic group homes for youth with significant trauma histories across Boca Raton, Lake Worth, and West Palm Beach; their domestic violence program Safety Net; and Pond Place, an independent living facility near Palm Beach State College for young adults aging out of the foster care system. In one small but telling moment from the episode, Matthew describes a young man from their program who stopped by the office on the way to his own high school graduation, needing someone to help him tie his tie. Amanda brings the clinical lens, talking about her background as a licensed mental health counselor and how a trauma-informed, strength-based philosophy shapes every program HomeSafe runs. The conversation also covers their Healthy Beginnings birth-to-five program, which reaches nearly every new family born in Palm Beach County, and a new initiative to help childcare directors and teachers better support children with challenging behaviors before they face expulsion. The episode also explores a shared connection to the Y: Matthew spent six years at YMCA of the USA in Chicago before coming to Palm Beach County, while host Michael Nathanson currently serves as board chair of the YMCA of Boca Raton and hosts Shoot for a Change, his annual two-day basketball fundraiser benefiting the Y's financial assistance program. HomeSafe's signature Classic Rock and Roll Party returns January 30, 2027 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, featuring Billy Joel guitarist Mike DelGuidice. Volunteers are welcome for Safety Net groups on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. To learn more or connect with HomeSafe, visit helphomesafe.org or call 561-383-9800. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/ Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

  6. May 4

    Ep. 49 - Why Laura Reiss Believes Kindness Starts With the Little Ones

    What happens when a barefoot hippie mom moves to a community that feels cold and decides to do something about it? That's exactly how Laura Reiss, founder of Kindness Matters 365, got started — not with a grand plan, but with a simple afterschool program and a deep belief that if you reach kids early, you change everything. Michael and Laura cover a lot of ground in this one. They talk about the humble beginnings of Kindness Matters 365 at a Boca Raton elementary school, how the program has grown to reach schools across the United States and into Cameroon, Africa, and why Laura remains laser-focused on children over adults. She shares how the curriculum has evolved to include nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and monthly themes — and why she's watched the school bully walk out of a program as a leader. Laura also opens up about being nearly a year and a half sober, navigating menopause, and what it took to rebuild her own capacity for kindness from the inside out. The conversation winds through food, music (she's a hardcore Deadhead), marriage, parenting three grown daughters, and Michael's upcoming milestone of sending his son off to the University of Florida. Underneath all of it is a shared belief that kindness is a choice, community is everything, and small acts really do ripple outward. If you want to get involved with Kindness Matters 365 — as a volunteer, ambassador, or donor — visit km365.org. Their next fundraising event is June 20th at Crazy Uncle Mike's in Boca Raton, 12 to 3 PM. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/ Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

  7. Apr 20

    Ep. 48 - Fighting Hunger in Palm Beach County: Feeding South Florida’s Impact, Food Insecurity & How You Can Help

    In this powerful episode of Food, Family, and Philanthropy, we dive into the reality of food insecurity right here in Palm Beach County. Many assume South Florida is thriving—but behind the scenes, families are making impossible choices between rent and food. Host sits down with Tony Hopper of Feeding South Florida and advisory council member Kye Akavia to uncover how this organization is providing millions of meals, supporting over 250 nonprofit partners, and creating real solutions through programs like culinary job training. From eye-opening stories about hunger in our own neighborhoods to actionable ways you can make a difference, this episode highlights the true impact of community, compassion, and giving back. If you’ve ever wondered how to help—or why it matters more than ever—this conversation will inspire you to take action. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/ Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

  8. Apr 13

    Ep. 47 - Sherri Divband On Rethinking Education For Kids With Autism And Anxiety

    What if the way we’ve always done school just isn’t working for a lot of kids? Michael sits down with Sherri Divband, founder of Aramis Creative Learning Center, to talk about a different path for children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other developmental differences. Her approach centers on helping kids feel safe, confident, and empowered through animal connection, project based learning, and health and wellness. They explore how traditional education can leave kids behind, especially those who don’t fit the standard mold, and why anxiety in children has become such a growing concern. Sherri shares how her own daughter’s experience led her to question everything and ultimately build a new model that gives kids more choice, creativity, and real world connection in how they learn. The conversation also touches on parenting unique children, the impact of COVID on kids’ social development, biofeedback and holistic healing, and why helping children understand themselves emotionally can change their entire future. Sherri also shares details about launching the first Aramis center in Palm Beach and how the community can support the mission through events and donations. Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/ Contact Michael Nathanson: Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

See All (55)

5
out of 5
25 Ratings

About

Hello and welcome to Food, Family, and Philanthropy, the podcast that combines my passions for real estate, family, food, sports, and most importantly, giving back to the community. I'm Michael Nathanson, and for nearly two decades, I've been working in the real estate business in beautiful South Florida. Throughout my career, I have found that the most rewarding experiences are those that involve giving back to the community. And that's why I decided to create this podcast: to explore how we can all make a difference through the many aspects of our lives. Whether it's supporting local businesses, connecting with loved ones, or getting involved in philanthropic endeavors, I believe we all have the power to positively impact the world. In each episode, I'll be joined by amazing guests – from restaurant owners to real estate professionals, to family members, friends, and mentors. We will discuss how we can use our passions and resources to create meaningful change in our communities. And, of course, we'll indulge in some delicious food along the way! So, whether you're a foodie, a philanthropist, a sports fan, or just someone who wants to make a difference in the world, I invite you to join me on this exciting journey. Follow us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and let's explore the many ways we can positively impact the world through food, family, and philanthropy!

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Nathanson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Food, Family, & Philanthropy
  • Show Website
    Food, Family, & Philanthropy