Beyond The Blog

The Patterson Foundation
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Beyond the Blog is an evolution of The Patterson Foundation’s storytelling approach focused on creating and sharing engaging content featuring the people, organizations, and communities strengthened through the Foundation’s work. This idea began and grew in 2022 with strategic oversight from MagnifyGood, guidance from Debra Jacobs, and content planning, coordination, and production by Kellie Alexander and Rachel Hettinger. 

  1. DEC 17

    Diversifying Revenue Without Losing the Mission: Lessons from Resilient Retreat

    In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrivability Podcast, Read Corley sits down with Lisa Intagliata, CEO of Resilient Retreat, to unpack how a young nonprofit built a mission-aligned social enterprise to diversify revenue and protect its ability to offer free, confidential healing programs for adult survivors of trauma and abuse, including first responders and helping professionals.  Lisa shares how Margin & Mission Ignition helped turn an idea into The Retreat Sarasota, an earned-revenue event rental venture, and why clear internal and external communication became the make-or-break factor for alignment. You’ll hear practical lessons on launching a business plan, managing systems, and calendaring to keep mission first, and expanding into wellness retreats without losing staff buy-in or community trust. Timestamps  00:00 - Introducing Lisa Intagliata, CEO, Resilient Retreat04:30 - Margin & Mission Ignition and the commitment required06:30 - Building The Retreat Sarasota from concept to business plan08:30 - A major misconception about fundraising and earned income10:15 - Donor excitement, staff caution, and early tension13:00 - Choosing event rentals as the first social enterprise16:30 - Expanding into wellness retreats using existing strengths20:30 - Leadership lessons on communication and internal alignmentLinks to Learn More  Resilient Retreat WebsiteThe Retreat Sarasota WebsiteBlog: Building Earned Income Without Losing Trust: Lessons from Resilient Retreat’s Work with Margin & Mission IgnitionConnect Beyond The Blog Lisa Intagliata LinkedinRead Corley LinkedinWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Join The Journey

    28 min

  2. DEC 16

    Connecting and Collaborating with our Communities on Disasters 

    The Patterson Foundation’s Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency (CPR-R) initiative is really starting to get its footing as it continues to uncover areas of need in the disaster ecosystem. Most notably, CPR-R has chosen to focus its current efforts on strengthening Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs). Karen Windon, CPR-R Initiative Lead, joined host Leah Verier-Dunn on Rising Resilience, a Beyond The Blog Podcast, to share more about what focusing on CERTs looks like.  Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Karen Windon, Initiative Lead03:01 - Why CPRR Was Created06:48 - What Are CERT Teams?13:12 - Disaster Ecosystem Overview16:33 - CERT Summit AnnouncementLinks to Learn More: Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency Community Emergency Response Teams2026 CERT Summit: Rising Resilience - Ready TogetherBlog: Getting to Know the Community Preparedness, Recovery, and Resiliency InitiativeWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Join The Journey

    25 min

  3. DEC 11

    Discover DeSoto: Bridging the Digital Gap in DeSoto County with Maribel Martinez

    On this episode of Discover DeSoto, Alicia Exantus speaks with Maribel Martinez, a consultant with The Patterson Foundation’s Digital Access for All initiative.  Although Maribel isn’t from DeSoto County, she has spent three years working closely with the community and has seen it shift from a rural area facing major challenges to one energized by new investments, partnerships, and growing momentum. The episode highlights DeSoto’s progress in expanding digital access. More residents now have broadband or are seeking devices and training, yet affordability and rural terrain remain major barriers. Maribel emphasizes that access isn’t meaningful unless families can actually afford to get online. This is why the Digital Access for All initiative focuses on three essentials: connectivity, devices, and digital skills. A key effort is the Digital Navigator Program, which trains community members to help residents secure affordable internet, obtain refurbished devices, and build confidence in using technology. A new cohort is now being developed specifically for DeSoto, inviting both organizations and individual residents to get involved. Spanish-speaking navigators are especially needed to support those who learn best from someone who shares their language and culture. The episode also spotlights Suncoast Digital Inclusion Month and a device-refurbishing partnership with STUG. We encourage you to stay connected through DeSotoCountyAhead.org Timestamps  00:38 - Introduction to Maribel, consultant with The Patterson Foundation01:18 - Maribel shares what makes DeSoto special03:07 - Maribel clarifies and explains Access vs Adoption04:30 - Maribel talks about the importance of affordability4:45 -Maribel defines “lighting up a house.”5:50 - Maribel defines and explains to listeners more about the digital divide8:35 - Maribal goes into detail about the DA4A (Digital Access for All) initiative and the DN (Digital Navigator) programs13:41 - Maribel describes the 4 levels of participation in the Digital Navigator program20:22 - Maribel highlights the Suncoast Digital Inclusion Month as well as the Device Drive24:00 - Maribel wraps up this episode by sharing her Discover Desoto Gem, The Yellow DeliLinks to Learn More  Digital Access for All initiativeDigital Navigator ProgramBlog: Discover Desoto: Bridging the Digital Gap in Desoto County With Maribel MartinezWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Join The Journey

    26 min

  4. NOV 21

    It’s Time to Learn & Explore at The Soar Lab – A Museum-like Experience for Children Featuring Sheila Halpin and Angela Knapek

    In this episode of Connecting Communities, Leah Verier-Dunn talks with Sheila Halpin and Angela Knapek from Soar in 4 about the opening of their new children’s museum-like learning lab. Soar Lab is a new Manatee County neighborhood gem that families must check out! With a focus on the importance of family engagement, the three discuss all that one can expect when they show up at the Soar Lab.  Timestamps  00:30 - Intro01:24 - Sheila talks about the history of Soar in 4 and how she got here03:40 - Angela discusses how she became involved in Soar in 405:51 - Sheila shares the mission of Soar in 4 09:15 - Angela talks about why this work is so important for the community10:05 - Sheila gives information about their Pop-up events at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature12:22 - Sheila opens up about what sparked the idea for the Soar Lab16:09 - Sheila talks about the journey of the Soar Lab21:01 - Angela reveals some of the interactive exhibits at the Soar Lab 24:19   Hours and ways to come to the Soar Lab with your family26:35 - Big Picture Small Steps27:03 - Angela and Sheila share their long-term goals for the Soar Lab29:24 - Angela and Sheila discuss the importance of hands-on learningLinks to Learn More Soar in 4 WebsiteSoar in 4 events at The Bishop Museum of Science and NatureSoar in 4 - Soar LabSuncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading WebsiteThe Patterson Foundation WebsiteMore Connecting Communities podcastsBlog: It’s Time to Learn & Explore at The Soar Lab – A Museum-like Experience for ChildrenConnect Beyond The Blog Soar in 4 InstagramManatee County Schools InstagramSoar in 4 FacebookManatee County Schools FacebookWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Join The Journey

    35 min

  5. NOV 12

    The Ripple Effect of Learning: How One Course Transformed the Literacy Council of Sarasota's Fundraising Results

    In this episode, we explore how "Principles & Techniques of Fundraising," a four-day, in-person training of Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy's The Fund Raising School, equips nonprofit leaders with practical, research-backed tools to strengthen fundraising efforts.   Tom Melville, Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Sarasota, and Board President Laura Randall, who attended the course through TPF's Fueling Dynamic Fundraising initiative, share how the program helped them refine their case for support, engage their board more effectively, and take a more strategic approach to donor stewardship. With insights from both a seasoned fundraiser and a former development director, this conversation highlights how the right training can drive clarity, confidence, and measurable results. Timestamps  00:00 – Intro to Fueling Dynamic Fundraising and guest introductions03:40 – Laura on learning something new after 15 years in fundraising06:30 – Tom on the power of peer learning in the cohort model09:50 – Rethinking their case for support and internal culture13:06 – A $100K donor becomes a $150K donor19:45 – Board chair + ED: why attending together mattered26:10 – Strategic planning, rebranding, and ongoing TPF support Links to Learn More  Fueling Dynamic FundraisingLiteracy Council of Sarasota WebsiteBlog: Fueling Dynamic Fundraising Lessons That Stick With Experienced Leaders Connect Beyond The Blog Laura Randall LinkedInThe Literacy Council of Sarasota LinkedIn Want to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Join The Journey

    39 min

  6. NOV 12

    Discover Desoto: Building a Stronger Desoto County Through Mentorship and Momentum With Crystal Walter

    In the latest episode of Discover DeSoto, host Alicia Exantus sits down with Regional Program Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Crystal Walter, to explore her aspirations for DeSoto County and how her organization’s mentorship programs are empowering local youth. Crystal shares how building strong relationships, nurturing trust, and investing in young people are central to creating the kind of community where everyone can thrive. The conversation dives into how initiatives like DeSoto County Ahead connect local residents, nonprofits, and leaders, ensuring that every story, every effort, and every act of kindness contributes to a shared vision for the county’s future. As Alicia and Crystal reflect on the progress already made and the dreams still ahead, listeners are reminded that change begins with connection. Timestamps  00:50 - Introduction to Crystal, Regional Program Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast.01:25 - Crystal shares what it is like living in DeSoto County and what she loves about it.03:30 - Crystal goes into detail about Big Brothers Big Sisters and what the organization offers to the community.07:00 - Crystal points out what is unique about Big Brothers Big Sisters in DeSoto County.8:35 - Crystal goes into detail about how to become a Big in her program.11:30 - Crystal shares her perspective of the community conversations that have taken place both as a participant and as a facilitator.8:35 - Crystal goes into detail about how to become a Big in her program.17:26 - Crystal shares her small wins from being an exhibitor at the Desoto County Ahead event.20:25 - Crystal wraps up this episode by sharing her Discover Desoto Gem.Links to Learn More  Big Brothers Big SistersCommunity ChampionConnect Beyond The Blog Crystal Walter on LinkedInAlicia Exantus on LinkedInWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Want to hear more? Follow us on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0tVpVxg0SlkdAYDLPUDRwf, Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-blog/id1837266791, iHeartRadio https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-beyond-the-blog-123868571, or visit us Beyond The Blog! https://www.thepattersonfoundation.org/beyond-the-blog.html Join The Journey

    24 min

  7. NOV 8

    How The Center for Digital Equity at Queens University is Creating Digital Access

    In this episode of Digital Access Discoveries, host Read Corley sits down with Bruce Clark, Digital Inclusion Project Manager, Center for Digital Equity at Queens University, to explore how collaborative ecosystems can bridge the digital divide. They dive into the power of trust, community partnerships, and the critical three-legged stool of digital access: connectivity, devices, and skills/support.  Timestamps  (00:00) Introduction to Bruce Clark and the digital equity ecosystem focus(01:34) Suncoast Digital Inclusion Month and national alignment(03:00) Why the conversation centers on digital ecosystems, not just access(03:59) Defining digital inclusion through lived experiences(05:00) The “three-legged stool” of digital access: connectivity, devices, skills(06:32) Collaboration starts by listening to those you’re serving(08:12) Real-life stories: tech access leading to better jobs and healthcare(10:10) Trust moves at the speed of relationships(14:05) Sustainability formula: mindset + support network + infrastructure(24:00) Two powerful ways individuals can support digital equity efforts Links to Learn More  Watch the Webinar with Bruce: https://www.thepattersonfoundation.org/blog/the-gap/the-suncoast-digital-connect-webinar-2-building-a-digital-equity-ecosystem.html  Center for Digital Equity Website: https://thecenterfordigitalequity.org/ DA4A Page: https://www.thepattersonfoundation.org/digital-access-for-all.html  Connect Beyond The Blog Bruce Clark LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ibclark/ Center for Digital Equity LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/centerfordigitalequity/ Want to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Join The Journey

    27 min

  8. OCT 27

    How Big Cat Habitat Turned Passion Into Profit With Margin & Mission Ignition

    In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrivability podcast, Read Corley sits down with Nancy Nallin and Rene Ferreira from Big Cat Habitat to explore how the Margin & Mission Ignition (MMI) initiative from The Patterson Foundation helped them supercharge sustainability. From gift shops to yoga with animals, they've transformed entrepreneurial ideas into mission-driven revenue streams, all while nurturing a new generation of leadership. Hear how this nonprofit is mastering succession planning, strategic revenue generation, and staying deeply mission-aligned. Timestamps  00:05: Introducing Nancy Nallin & Renee Ferreira of Big Cat Habitat03:00: What Margin & Mission Ignition is and why it matters05:17: MMI's impact on team development and admin structure06:17: Success from round one: launching event rentals08:17:  How MMI helped turn ideas into real revenue10:29: Staying focused on mission while growing revenue11:27: Engaging board members and volunteers in earned income ventures14:13:  How MMI shifted their long-term thinking around strategy and income15:20:  The power of Thrive & Dine sessions and ongoing peer learning17:53:  Final advice for nonprofits considering MMILinks to Learn More Margin & Mission IgnitionBig Cat Habitat WebsiteWant to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog! Join The Journey

    21 min
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About

Beyond the Blog is an evolution of The Patterson Foundation’s storytelling approach focused on creating and sharing engaging content featuring the people, organizations, and communities strengthened through the Foundation’s work. This idea began and grew in 2022 with strategic oversight from MagnifyGood, guidance from Debra Jacobs, and content planning, coordination, and production by Kellie Alexander and Rachel Hettinger. 

Information

  • Creator
    The Patterson Foundation
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    94
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Beyond The Blog
  • Show Website
    Beyond The Blog