This episode of “Gathering Ground” explores strategies, challenges, and considerations for foundations planning to spend their endowments down and sunset. Host Mary Morten welcomes Heather D. Parish, Marianne Philbin, and Malila Becton-Consuegra, three leaders with firsthand experience in sunsetting foundations.

Read the episode transcript here: https://www.studiocchicago.com/gathering-ground-episode-57-transcript

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This time on "Gathering Ground," Mary delves into the power of storytelling! Guests Julie Ganey, Terrence Chappell, and Willa Taylor unpack its impact on building communities, social justice, and how we're talking about our organizations.

You'll hear personal journeys into storytelling, tips for crafting powerful narratives, and learn how to navigate sharing vulnerable stories. Discover the power you hold as a storyteller and be inspired to share your voice authentically.

Visit the "Gathering Ground" page: gatheringgroundpodcast.com

This time on "Gathering Ground," Mary's guests each succeeded a long-time leader when they entered their roles — Joe Hollendoner, CEO at Los Angeles LGBT Center; Jose M. Muñoz, CEO at La Casa Norte; and Carol J. Sharp, President/CEO at The Night Ministry. They discuss the challenges, opportunities, and surprises of honoring a legacy while creating a new vision.

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This time on “Gathering Ground,” Mary engages in an insightful conversation with Akaya Windwood and Rajasvini Bhansali, authors of "Leading with Joy." They discuss the power of joy in leadership and team-building, creating supportive work environments, generational leadership succession, and much more.

In this episode, Mary and her guests, Sean Thomas-Breitfeld and Frances Kunreuther, co-directors of Building Movement Project, dive into the challenges and triumphs of BIPOC leadership in nonprofits. Centering data from the most recent Race to Lead Report, they explore data on racial equity and the importance of mentorship for future leaders.

This time on "Gathering Ground," Mary delves into the transformative equity work happening in Montana. She sits down with Montana's first openly transgender legislator, State Representative Zooey Zephyr, and Dani Hess, Community Engagement Coordinator at the City of Bozeman. They spend the episode unpacking their efforts at the state and municipal levels, particularly through initiatives like the "Belonging in Bozeman" Equity and Inclusion Plan. The episode also explores Representative Zephyr's reflections on running for political office and the importance of mentorship and self-love in navigating challenging spaces.

For more information on Morten Group's work with the City of Bozeman in creating their equity and inclusion plan, follow us on LinkedIn and check out the rest of our "Blueprint for Belonging" series with “Gathering Ground” Producer Vince Pagán-Hill!

Mary and guest Nina Rose Fischer explore the pursuit of safer communities through innovative programs such as the Youth Police Initiative. She guides us through the strategies that underpin these programs and foster positive relations between youth and police, including alternative incarceration, motivational interviewing, and de-escalation techniques.

In this episode, Mary dives into the world of Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, exploring her journey from law to politics and the unique perspective she brings to leadership. They delve into Stratton's initiatives like "We Thrive" and discuss the power of inclusive language in the fight for reproductive rights.

Filled with insights for BIPOC women and calls to action for all, this episode is an inspiring exploration of impact, community, and building a more equitable future.