Nardi Media's Purposeful Podcast

In this episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Kara Logan-Berlin, founder of Harvest, a leadership development and consulting practice that helps nonprofit leaders become bold, capable, and confident change-makers.Kara brings deep experience in nonprofit development, fundraising strategy, donor relationships, executive coaching, board strategy, and organizational growth. In this conversation, she shares what it really takes to lead a nonprofit with clarity, accountability, courage, and impact.For nonprofit CEOs, executive directors, development professionals, mission-driven leaders, and social impact organizations, this episode offers practical insight into how strong leadership directly affects fundraising, team performance, donor trust, and long-term mission success.In this conversation, Ashley and Kara discuss:• What makes nonprofit leadership different• Why nonprofits still need to be run with business discipline• How Kara helped increase nonprofit revenue by 400% early in her career• Why systems, goals, accountability, and hard conversations matter• How nonprofit CEOs can make better leadership decisions• Why development teams need structure and strategy• How to build stronger donor relationships• Why listening is one of the most important fundraising skills• The difference between a fundraising event and a party• How nonprofit leaders can work more effectively with their boards• Why many leaders struggle when they are promoted without training• The value of coaching for nonprofit CEOs and senior leaders• How female CEOs face different leadership expectations• Why leaders need AI literacy, financial literacy, and adaptability• Kara’s work supporting the Obama Presidential Center fundraising strategy• Why “hope is not a strategy” in fundraising or leadershipThis episode is a powerful reminder that organizations are only as strong as the leaders guiding them. Leadership is not a destination. It is a practice, and every step toward becoming a stronger leader creates greater opportunities for impact.Learn more about Kara Logan-Berlin and Harvest at harvestklb.com.

In this deeply meaningful episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with James Dismond, CEO of MiraSol Health, for a powerful conversation about hospice care, grief support, end-of-life planning, serious illness, and what it means to care for people with dignity and compassion.James shares how his own early experiences with loss shaped his journey from fearing death to finding purpose in helping families navigate some of life’s most vulnerable moments. Through his leadership at MiraSol Health, he is helping shift the conversation around hospice and end-of-life care from fear and avoidance to understanding, connection, and compassionate support.For mission-driven leaders, healthcare professionals, caregivers, families, and anyone navigating grief, this episode offers a deeply human reminder that difficult conversations can be an act of love.In this conversation, Ashley and James discuss:• How hospice care can support patients and families with dignity• Why we need to talk more openly about death and end-of-life care• How grief can begin at the point of diagnosis• The importance of serious illness planning before a crisis happens• How families can start difficult conversations about care wishes• Why grief is different for every person• How to support someone who is grieving• The power of being present without trying to fix• Why saying a loved one’s name matters after loss• How specific help is more meaningful than “let me know if you need anything”• Compassionate accountability in healthcare leadership• How MiraSol Health is expanding care beyond traditional hospice• Why caring for others is one of the most powerful expressions of purposeThis episode is a powerful reminder that while we cannot always control the circumstances life brings, we can choose how we care for one another through them.Learn more about MiraSol Health at mirasolhealth.org

In this inspiring episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Erich and Dani Sanchack, the father-daughter co-author team behind DES Press and the bestselling fantasy series, The Nosam Chronicles.Together, they share how a family love of reading, tabletop gaming, creativity, and storytelling grew into a bestselling book series, a passionate reader community, and a larger mission to give back.For mission-driven authors, leaders, and creatives, this conversation is a powerful reminder that storytelling can do more than entertain. It can build connection, strengthen family bonds, create community, support meaningful causes, and turn a passion project into a platform for impact.Erich and Dani discuss how their creative collaboration began, what it has taught them about trust and compromise, and why themes like leadership, courage, resilience, found family, service, and looking beyond yourself are woven throughout their work. They also share how proceeds from their books support deployed service members, military families, and veteran organizations.In this conversation, Ashley, Erich, and Dani discuss:• How a father-daughter creative collaboration became a bestselling fantasy series• The role of family, trust, and creativity in co-authoring a book• How tabletop gaming inspired The Nosam Chronicles• Why storytelling can become a platform for purpose and impact• The leadership lessons hidden inside fantasy fiction• How resilience, sacrifice, courage, and found family shape the series• What it takes to build a reader community around a book• How authors can use their platform to support causes they care about• Giving back to deployed service members, military families, and veterans• What aspiring authors can learn about creativity, patience, and building a teamThis episode is a powerful reminder that great stories do not only live on the page. They can bring people together, inspire readers, support communities, and create a legacy that reaches far beyond the book itself.Learn more about The Nosam Chronicles at https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/249103441

In this deeply personal episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Tamra Sipes, President of Gold Star Spouses of America, for a moving conversation about military loss, surviving military spouses, remembrance, advocacy, and the power of community after unimaginable grief.As a Gold Star daughter, Ashley brings her own lived experience to this conversation, having lost her father while he was serving on active duty in the U.S. Army. Together, Ashley and Tamra discuss what it means to be part of a Gold Star family, why surviving military spouses need continued support, and how Gold Star Spouses of America is helping military widows and widowers find connection, purpose, and a voice.Tamra shares her own story of losing her husband in 1995 while raising three young children, the lack of resources available at the time, and why peer connection, remembrance, education, and advocacy are so essential for surviving military families.In this conversation, Ashley and Tamra discuss:• What it means to be a Gold Star spouse• The mission of Gold Star Spouses of America• Why community is essential after military loss• The unique challenges surviving military spouses face• The importance of remembrance and honoring fallen service members• How Gold Star Spouses of America supports military widows and widowers• Advocacy work for surviving spouses and their families• The Love Lives On Act and remarriage-related benefit challenges• Why surviving spouses need education, leadership, and connection• How the public can better support Gold Star families• Why honoring fallen heroes also means caring for the families they left behindThis episode is a powerful reminder that remembrance is not only about looking back. It is about showing up in the present, ensuring no sacrifice is forgotten, and supporting the families whose lives were forever changed by military service.Learn more about Gold Star Spouses of America at goldstarspouses.org

In this powerful episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Nicholas Janni and Amy Elizabeth Fox, internationally recognized leadership experts and co-authors of Leading in Chaos: A Clarion Call to a New Future.Today’s leaders are navigating uncertainty, polarization, disruption, AI, change fatigue, and what many describe as a polycrisis. Nicholas and Amy argue that the leadership models of the past are no longer enough. To lead effectively now, mission-driven leaders need more than strategy and linear thinking. They need presence, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, embodiment, intuition, courage, and human connection.Together, Ashley, Nicholas, and Amy explore what it means to bring our full humanity into leadership and why the inner work of leadership is no longer optional.In this conversation, Ashley, Nicholas, and Amy discuss:• How mission-driven leaders can lead through chaos and uncertainty• Why traditional leadership models are no longer enough• The impact of change fatigue and adaptive exhaustion• How AI, polarization, and global disruption are changing the workplace• Why leaders need presence, emotional intelligence, and deeper self-awareness• The role of embodiment, intuition, emotion, and spirit in leadership• How organizations can create more trust, creativity, and psychological safety• Why leaders must slow down to truly listen and see what has been normalized• The cost of numbing, self-abandonment, and emotional disconnection at work• Why inner work matters for leaders, teams, families, and future generations• What more human-centered workplaces could look like in the futureThis episode is a powerful reminder that leading in chaos does not require more control. It requires more consciousness, connection, courage, and humanity.Learn more about Leading in Chaos at leadinginchaosbook.com

In this meaningful episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Denise Chadwick Wright, CEO of Birmingham Green, to discuss mission-driven leadership, senior care, dignity, community impact, and the future of long-term care.For more than 90 years, Birmingham Green has served seniors in Northern Virginia through a mission rooted in compassion, accessibility, and respect. What began as a commitment written into Virginia law has grown into a 54-acre senior living campus in Manassas, providing assisted living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and supportive housing for older adults, including those who may not otherwise have the financial resources to access long-term care.Denise shares how Birmingham Green continues to honor its historic mission while preparing for the future of senior living. She also discusses what dignified care looks like in practice, the role of public-private partnerships, the growing needs of an aging population, and why connection, community, and compassion matter so deeply in care for older adults.In this conversation, Ashley and Denise discuss:• Mission-driven leadership in senior care• The history and purpose behind Birmingham Green• What dignified long-term care looks like in practice• How public-private partnerships can support accessible care• Why financial resources should not determine dignity in aging• The greatest needs facing today’s aging population• Loneliness, connection, and community among older adults• How residents continue to learn, contribute, and give back• The future of senior living and long-term care• How volunteers, donors, and community members can support Birmingham GreenThis episode is a powerful reminder that senior care is not only about services. It is about dignity, belonging, community, and honoring the people who helped build the communities we live in today.Learn more about Birmingham Green at birminghamgreen.org

In this timely episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Bill Eddy, co-founder of the High Conflict Institute, attorney, therapist, mediator, bestselling author, and one of the world’s leading experts on high-conflict personalities and disputes.For mission-driven leaders, authors, advocates, executives, and organizations, conflict is often unavoidable. But when conflict becomes chronic, destructive, and fueled by blame, unmanaged emotions, and extreme behavior, it can damage teams, families, workplaces, communities, and trust.Bill shares practical insight into what high-conflict behavior looks like, why it seems to be increasing, and how leaders and individuals can respond without escalating the situation. He also explains how to set boundaries, communicate more strategically, and avoid being pulled into cycles of blame, polarization, and emotional reactivity.In this conversation, Ashley and Bill discuss:• What defines a high-conflict personality• The difference between difficult behavior and high-conflict behavior• Why high-conflict behavior may be on the rise• How social media and public behavior shape conflict patterns• How high-conflict people influence families, workplaces, and communities• What leaders can do to prevent conflict from taking over a culture• How to avoid escalating difficult conversations• The four things not to do with a high-conflict person• How to set healthier boundaries in work and personal relationships• Bill’s CARS method: connecting, analyzing, responding, and setting limits• Workplace bullying, adult bullies, and how organizations can respond• How education and communication skills can help build healthier relationshipsThis episode is a powerful reminder that understanding conflict is the first step to transforming it. While we cannot always control another person’s behavior, we can learn how to respond with clarity, boundaries, and purpose.Learn more about Bill Eddy and the High Conflict Institute at highconflictinstitute.comLearn more about Conflict Influencer at conflictinfluencer.comExplore Bill’s books, including Our New World of Adult Bullies and 5 Types of People Who Can Ruin Your Life, wherever books are sold.

In this thoughtful episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Janet Jumper, nurse practitioner, coach, Air Force veteran, and communication educator, for a conversation about how mission-driven leaders can build trust through communication, compassion, resilience, and human connection.For leaders, founders, healthcare professionals, advocates, and purpose-driven organizations, communication is not just about what you say. It is about how you help people feel seen, valued, heard, and supported, especially in high-stakes moments.Janet shares how her background in nursing, critical care, military service, and healthcare communication shaped her approach to helping people communicate with more clarity, care, and confidence. She also opens up about her personal health journey with Crohn’s disease, the role of food as medicine, and the importance of creating small moments of connection in everyday life.In this conversation, Ashley and Janet discuss:• How mission-driven leaders can build trust through communication• Why compassionate communication matters in leadership, healthcare, and family life• What difficult conversations can teach us about care and connection• How to help people feel seen, valued, and heard• Janet’s experience as a nurse practitioner and Air Force veteran• The connection between communication and resilience• Food as medicine, gut health, and family nutrition• Janet’s personal journey with Crohn’s disease• How parents and leaders can create more intentional moments of connection• The “communicate, connect, care” framework• Finding micro-moments of joy, peace, and meaning in everyday lifeThis episode is a powerful reminder that the way we communicate shapes more than a single conversation. It shapes trust, relationships, leadership, health, and legacy.Learn more about Janet Jumper at janetjumpernp.com

In this inspiring episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Pam Sherman, founder of Sherman Edge, global leadership coach, actor, writer, and author of Play You: The Role of a Lifetime.For mission-driven leaders, authors, executives, and advocates, showing up with confidence is not about performing as someone else. It is about becoming more fully yourself and communicating in a way that builds trust, connection, and believability.Pam shares how her background as an actor and leadership coach shaped her work helping leaders bridge what she calls the “believability gap,” the distance between who we truly are and how we think we are supposed to show up. Together, Ashley and Pam explore how the tools actors use on stage can help leaders communicate with greater authenticity, presence, clarity, and impact. In this conversation, Ashley and Pam discuss:• Executive presence for mission-driven leaders• How to communicate with confidence and authenticity• The connection between leadership, storytelling, and trust• What the “believability gap” is and why it matters• How acting techniques can help leaders become more real, not less• Why self-awareness is the foundation of strong communication• How leaders can identify their core values and purpose• The importance of being fully present with your audience• How to overcome outdated stories and limiting beliefs• Why leadership is not about playing someone else’s role, but fully owning your ownThis episode is a powerful reminder that confidence is not about becoming someone different. It is about understanding who you are, owning your story, and showing up with clarity, conviction, and humanity.Learn more about Pam Sherman at thepamsherman.comOrder Play You: The Role of a Lifetime wherever books are sold.

In this powerful episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Sara Connell, five-time bestselling author, speaker, founder of Thought Leader Academy, and author of The Download: Train Your Brain, Unlock Your Genius, Create Miracles.At a time when artificial intelligence can generate content, answers, and ideas in seconds, this conversation explores what still belongs only to human beings: original insight, lived experience, creativity, intuition, and purpose. For mission-driven leaders, authors, founders, and organizations, thought leadership is not about producing more content. It is about knowing what only you can say.Sara shares the deeply personal story behind The Download, including her journey through infertility, loss, grief, walking, motherhood, and the breakthrough idea that changed her life. She also explains the “download walk,” a practical method for creating the conditions where original ideas, clarity, and creative insight can emerge.In this conversation, Ashley and Sara discuss:• How mission-driven leaders can access original ideas in the age of AI• Why human insight matters more than ever for thought leadership• The difference between AI-generated content and human creativity• How to protect your voice, story, and message in a world of sameness• Sara’s personal journey through infertility, loss, and motherhood• The story behind The Download• How walking can help unlock clarity, creativity, and breakthrough ideas• The neuroscience and psychology behind creative insight• Why leaders, authors, and changemakers need to make space before asking AI• How to build a thought leadership platform rooted in lived experience and purposeThis episode is a powerful reminder that the future belongs to people who can offer what technology cannot: original human insight, imagination, compassion, and a message rooted in purpose.Learn more about Sara Connell at saraconnell.comOrder The Download: Train Your Brain, Unlock Your Genius, Create Miracles wherever books are sold.

In this moving episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Luba Patlakh, speech-language pathologist, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Kidology, Inc., to talk about helping children find their voice, build confidence, and understand that their differences can become their greatest strengths.After years of supporting children and families through speech, occupational, physical, and developmental therapy, Luba has built Kidology, Inc. into a nationally recognized pediatric therapy practice dedicated to accessible, family-centered care. Now, she is bringing those lessons beyond the therapy room through her new children’s book, Bobo Wears a Bowtie.Luba shares how her work as a therapist, mother, entrepreneur, immigrant, and daughter shaped her mission to help children communicate with confidence and courage. She also opens up about the personal inspiration behind Bobo Wears a Bowtie, including the influence of her late mother and the powerful message of seeing the good in every day.In this conversation, Ashley and Luba discuss:• Why helping children find their voice is about more than speech• The connection between communication, confidence, identity, and emotional well-being• What parents should watch for when a child may be struggling• Why early intervention and trusting parental instinct matters• The emotional reality of supporting children with developmental differences• How parents can help shape a child’s inner voice• Luba’s journey building Kidology into a nationally recognized pediatric therapy practice• The inspiration behind Bobo Wears a Bowtie• Grief, resilience, entrepreneurship, and leading with purposeThis episode is a powerful reminder that courage does not always mean being fearless. Sometimes courage simply means showing up as yourself.Learn more about Kidology, Inc. at kidologyinc.comLearn more about Bobo Wears a Bowtie at bobowearsabowtie.com

In this thought-provoking episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Jamie Metzl, futurist, bestselling author, technology expert, and founder of One Shared World, to explore one of the biggest questions of our time: how do we use powerful technology to help humanity become wiser?Jamie’s latest book, The AI Ten Commandments: A New Moral Code for Humanity, explores the intersection of artificial intelligence, ethics, spirituality, responsibility, and human flourishing. In a groundbreaking move, Jamie publicly credits GPT-5 as a co-author, opening an important conversation about transparency, creativity, and the future of human-AI collaboration.In this conversation, Ashley and Jamie discuss:• Why AI is one of the most significant technological shifts of our time• The promise and risks of artificial intelligence• Why values, ethics, and governance matter as technology accelerates• Jamie’s decision to credit GPT-5 as a co-author• What human-AI collaboration can look like when done transparently• The role of spirituality, morality, and shared human wisdom in the AI era• How parents and families can think about AI at home• Why purpose must come before technology•What it means to remain deeply human in a rapidly changing worldThis episode is a powerful reminder that the future of AI is not only about machines. It is about humanity, wisdom, responsibility, and the values we choose to carry forward.Learn more about Jamie Metzl at jamiemetzl.comLearn more about The AI Ten Commandments at theaitencommandments.com

In this powerful episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Casey Caston, co-founder of Marriage365 and author of The Marriage Habit, to talk about what it really takes to build a thriving marriage in today’s busy, high-pressure world.After facing deep struggles in their own marriage, Casey and his wife, Meygan, made the decision to rebuild from the inside out. What began as their personal journey toward healing and repair became Marriage365, one of the most influential relationship platforms online, helping millions of couples create stronger, healthier, and more intentional relationships.Casey shares why strong marriages are not built by accident. They are built through habits, systems, repair, communication, and the willingness to do the work within ourselves first. In this conversation, Ashley and Casey discuss:• Casey and Meygan’s marriage story• Why a better marriage starts with becoming a better version of yourself• The power of the weekly marriage “business meeting”• How small habits can prevent emotional distance over time• Why apology and repair are essential to long-term connection• What thriving marriages actually look like in everyday life• The common patterns that create tension between couples• Why strong marriages and families matter for future generations• How The Marriage Habit gives couples practical tools to reconnect and growThis episode is a powerful reminder that love is not only a feeling. It is a practice, a choice, and a set of habits we return to again and again. Learn more about Marriage365 at marriage365.com

In this powerful episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Dr. Hassan Tetteh, thoracic surgeon, retired U.S. Navy captain, healthcare leader, author, and board member for the American Heart Association in the Greater Washington region.Together, they discuss Dr. Tetteh’s extraordinary life of service, from military medicine and trauma surgery to transplant care and organ donation. Dr. Tetteh shares the deeply human stories behind his book, From Death to Life, and offers a moving perspective on resilience, grief, hope, and the profound gift of organ donation.Ashley and Dr. Tetteh also explore the lifesaving work of the American Heart Association, the importance of CPR readiness, and what women need to know about cardiovascular health, including why symptoms of heart disease can look different for women.This conversation is a reminder that life is fragile, purpose matters, and sometimes the smallest action can become someone else’s second chance at life.In this episode, you'll learn:• Dr. Tetteh’s path from the Navy to transplant surgery• The human side of organ donation• The story behind From Death to Life• Why CPR training matters• Women’s heart health and overlooked symptoms• How to get involved with the American Heart Association• Living with purpose, gratitude, and service

In this episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Tom Davis, Vice President of Corporate Development and Partnerships at Good360, a nonprofit organization leading the way in product philanthropy.Good360 helps redirect excess and surplus goods from corporations to nonprofits and communities that need them most, keeping usable products out of landfills and getting essential items into the hands of families, disaster survivors, shelters, schools, and organizations serving vulnerable populations.Tom shares how Good360 works with major retailers, manufacturers, logistics partners and nonprofit partners to match donated products with real needs on the ground. From disaster relief and hygiene products to school supplies, toys, home goods, and corporate surplus, this conversation explores how everyday items can become powerful tools for dignity, recovery, and hope.Ashley and Tom also discuss the importance of listening before helping, why disaster response requires coordination, and how corporations, nonprofits, and individuals can all play a role in building smarter, more compassionate systems of giving. In this episode, you'll learn:• What product philanthropy means• How Good360 redirects surplus goods to communities in need• Why listening matters in disaster relief• How corporate donations can support dignity and recovery• The hidden impact of excess inventory and returns• How nonprofits can become Good360 members• Ways individuals and companies can get involved• The future of circularity, social impact, and responsible givingLearn more about Good360:https://good360.orgLearn more about Nardi Media:https://www.nardimedia.comListen to more episodes of Purposeful:Subscribe for conversations with leaders, changemakers, and mission-driven voices using their platforms to move the world forward.

In this episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Casey Erin Clark and Julie Fogh, co-founders of Vital Voice Training, to explore the power of voice, authentic communication, and what it really means to show up as yourself in leadership. Casey and Julie help leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, authors, TEDx speakers, and organizations communicate with more confidence, presence, authenticity, and connection. Drawing from their backgrounds in professional theater, voice coaching, leadership development, and public speaking, they challenge the outdated idea that leaders need to sound a certain way in order to be taken seriously.Together, Ashley, Casey, and Julie discuss why communication is not about perfection or performance. It is about humanity, embodiment, trust, and genuine connection.In this conversation, they explore:• How to find and trust your authentic voice• Why women’s voices are often scrutinized in leadership spaces• The communication barriers that keep people from speaking up• How theater and voice training can help leaders communicate with more presence• Why “just be confident” is not helpful advice• The role of voice, embodiment, and connection in public speaking• Why human communication matters even more in the age of AI• How leaders can create safer environments for people to use their full voice• Why authenticity is not the opposite of intentionality• What it means to lead, speak, and communicate as your real selfThis episode is a powerful conversation for leaders, communicators, founders, speakers, and anyone who wants to speak with more clarity, courage, and connection.Learn more about Vital Voice Training at vitalvoicetraining.com.

In this moving episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Camille Fortunato, mother, advocate, and founder of The Anthony Filippazzo Grant for Williams Syndrome Research, to share her family’s journey with Williams syndrome and the mission that grew from it.When Camille’s son, Anthony, was born, doctors immediately knew something was wrong. After years of medical complications, uncertainty, and searching for answers, Anthony was diagnosed with Williams syndrome, a rare genetic condition that can affect development, learning, cardiovascular health, and multiple organ systems.Camille shares what those early years were like, how her family found community after diagnosis, and why she turned pain into purpose through advocacy, awareness, and medical research. In this conversation, Ashley and Camille discuss:• Anthony’s diagnosis journey• What Williams syndrome is and why awareness matters• The emotional reality of navigating a rare disease as a family• The importance of community and connection• The need for more research into Williams syndrome and cardiac complications• How The Anthony Filippazzo Grant for Williams Syndrome Research is helping fund meaningful progress• The joy, empathy, love, and humanity often found within the Williams syndrome communityThis episode is a powerful reminder that awareness is more than information. It is connection, advocacy, and hope.Learn more about The Anthony Filippazzo Grant for Williams Syndrome Research at wsresearch.org.Subscribe to Purposeful for more conversations with mission-driven leaders using their voices, platforms, and stories to create meaningful change.

In this deeply moving episode of Purposeful, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America, to discuss the organization’s powerful mission to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.Karen shares the origin story of Wreaths Across America, from one family’s simple act of remembrance at Arlington National Cemetery, to a national, year-round movement led by volunteers across the country.Ashley also shares her personal connection as a Gold Star daughter, reflecting on how Wreaths Across America helps her honor her father’s legacy and teach her children about service, sacrifice, and remembrance. Together, Ashley and Karen explore:• The story behind Wreaths Across America• Why saying the names of fallen service members matters• The role of volunteers in carrying the mission forward• How the organization teaches children about service, civics, and freedom• Why remembrance is about individual stories, not just symbolic acts• How families, schools, veterans, and communities can get involved year-roundThis conversation is a heartfelt reminder that remembrance is not limited to one day. It is something we carry forward through stories, service, education, and community.Learn more about Wreaths Across America and how to get involved at WreathsAcrossAmerica.org.Subscribe to Purposeful for more conversations with mission-driven leaders using their voices, platforms, and leadership to make a meaningful impact.

What if kindness isn’t a soft skill… but one of the most powerful leadership tools we have? In this episode of the Purposeful Podcast, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Ian Sandler, co-chair of Riley’s Way, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering young leaders to create meaningful change through kindness, empathy, and connection.Ian’s journey is deeply personal. After the sudden loss of his daughter Riley at just nine years old, he and his family chose to honor her legacy by building something that would impact generations to come. What began in a hospital room has grown into a national movement, equipping young people with the tools, resources, and support to lead with purpose. This conversation goes beyond grief.It’s about redefining leadership. It’s about empowering the next generation. And it’s about recognizing that kindness, empathy, and emotional intelligence are not optional—they are essential in today’s world. A central truth from this episode: Kindness isn’t passive. It’s an active, strategic force for real change. What You’ll Learn:- Why kindness is a powerful (and overlooked) leadership skill- How Riley’s Way is empowering the next generation of change-makers- The importance of emotional intelligence in a world driven by AI- How young people are already creating meaningful impact- Why leadership needs to shift from authority to service- How to get involved and support the movement

What if animal welfare isn’t just about animals… but about people too? In this episode of the Purposeful Podcast, Ashley Bernardi sits down with Stella Hanly, CEO of the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, to explore how the field of animal welfare is evolving from shelter-based services to a more holistic, community-centered model.Stella’s journey from corporate consulting to nonprofit leadership is rooted in a desire to create meaningful impact. Today, she leads an organization that is redefining what it means to support animals by also supporting the people who care for them.Because one truth is becoming increasingly clear: Where there’s an animal in need, there’s often a human in need too.In this conversation, we explore how removing judgment, increasing access to resources, and strengthening community partnerships can keep families and pets together—and why that matters more than ever.A central truth from this episode: Animal welfare is not just about rescue. It’s about prevention, support, and strengthening the communities that care for both people and pets. What You’ll Learn:- Why animal welfare is shifting toward a community-centered model- The connection between housing, economic hardship, and pet surrender- How removing judgment helps families seek support earlier- Why pets are essential to human well-being, not a luxury- How local partnerships expand impact across communities- What “more than a shelter” really means in practice- How you can support animal welfare in your own communityLearn more or support:https://alexandriaanimals.org

What if the most powerful thing you could do right now… is pause?In this episode of the Purposeful Podcast, Ashley Bernardi sits down with keynote speaker, TEDx presenter, and author Effie Santos to explore the transformative role of pausing in leadership, decision-making, and personal growth.Effie’s story is deeply personal.After the devastating loss of her 19-year-old daughter, Maddie, she chose to turn grief into purpose by founding Maddie’s Movement—an organization that supports teens and young adults aging out of foster care with the tools, community, and confidence to build independent, thriving lives.But this conversation goes beyond grief.It’s about how we lead.It’s about how we respond to uncertainty.And it’s about learning to create space for clarity, courage, and intentional action—especially in life’s most difficult moments. A central truth from this episode:Confidence doesn’t come before action. Courage does. And often, it begins with the decision to pause.🎧 What You’ll Learn:-What it really means to pause and why it’s not about doing nothing- How to turn pain into purpose in a meaningful, lasting way- Why courage comes before confidence in leadership- How pausing creates clarity in high-pressure environments- Why constant action can limit effective decision-making- How Maddie’s Movement is creating real impact for young adultsLearn More About Effie Santos:Website: https://effiesantos.comMaddie’s Movement: https://maddiesmovement.org

Welcome to the Purposeful Podcast. Purposeful is a podcast by Nardi Media, created to amplify the voices of leaders, advocates, and changemakers who are uplifting the world through courage, service, and truth.In this episode, host Ashley Bernardi, Founder and CEO of Nardi Media, sits down with Jeeyun (Jee) Lee, CEO of Maui United Way, to discuss the devastating flooding currently impacting communities across Hawaii.This conversation is deeply personal. Ashley’s own family is directly affected, and what is unfolding on the ground has not yet received the level of national attention it deserves.Historic flooding has swept across parts of the Hawaiian islands, destroying homes, disrupting supply chains, and leaving families without access to basic necessities like food, fuel, and shelter. Communities on islands like Maui and Molokai are facing urgent challenges while navigating limited infrastructure, delayed federal aid, and the realities of island life.In this episode, Jeeyun (Jee) Lee, shares what is truly happening right now, the immediate needs facing families, and how organizations like Maui United Way are working to support recovery efforts in real time.This is more than a conversation. It is a call to awareness, compassion, and action. A central truth from this episode:In times of crisis, the most effective support is not always more “things.” It is the right resources, delivered at the right time, through trusted community networks.What You’ll Learn:-What is happening right now on the ground in Hawaii following the floods- The real challenges island communities face during disaster recovery-Why FEMA aid delays are impacting immediate relief efforts-The most urgent needs families are facing today- Why financial support is more effective than physical donations-How Maui United Way is coordinating community-led recovery- How you can make a meaningful impact from anywhere

Welcome to the Purposeful Podcast!Purposeful is a podcast by Nardi Media, created to amplify the voices of leaders, advocates, and changemakers who are uplifting the world through courage, service, and truth.In this episode, host Ashley Bernardi, Founder and CEO of Nardi Media, sits down with Dorothy “Doro” Bush Koch, daughter of the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush, and former First Lady Barbara Bush, who devoted much of her life to championing literacy in America.Barbara Bush believed that literacy is one of the most powerful tools for opportunity, saying that if we could solve literacy in America, we could address many of the challenges facing our society, from poverty to educational inequality.Today, that mission continues through the work of the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, where Doro Bush Koch plays an important role in carrying forward her mother’s legacy.In this conversation, Ashley and Doro explore the power of reading within families, the importance of early literacy, and why helping both parents and children develop literacy skills can transform entire communities.From personal stories of growing up in a home filled with books to practical advice for parents raising children in a screen-driven world, this episode highlights how reading can shape confidence, curiosity, and opportunity for generations.A central truth from this episode:When families read together, they don’t just build literacy, they build connection, confidence, and opportunity for the future.What You’ll Learn:- Why literacy is one of the most powerful drivers of opportunity in society- The role Barbara Bush played in elevating family literacy across America- Why parents learning to read alongside their children changes entire families- The current literacy challenges facing children and adults in the United States- How parents can encourage a love of reading, even in a screen-filled world- Practical ways families can make reading joyful and part of everyday life- Why it’s never too late to start reading together

Welcome to the Purposeful Podcast.In this episode, Ashley Bernardi, CEO of Nardi Media, reflects on the power of storytelling, resilience, kindness, and personal growth in shaping both our inner world and our communities.At the heart of this conversation is the recent Walk for Peace, a 2,300-mile journey led by Buddhist monks, completed over 109 days to spread nonviolence, mindfulness, and hope. Their message was simple but profound: peace is not achieved in leaps, it is cultivated through small, consistent actions.This episode explores:- Why storytelling is essential in building hope and community- How resilience is strengthened through daily practice- The role of mindfulness and meditation in personal growth- Why kindness—especially self-kindness—is foundational to leadership- How small steps toward peace can create powerful ripplesAs Ashley shares, “Peace begins within.” And, “Stories are how we build hope.”If you’re searching for:How to find inner peaceHow to practice mindfulness in difficult timesHow to build resilience and hopeThe power of storytelling in leadershipWays to create change through small actionsThis episode offers practical reflection and encouragement.

Welcome to the Purposeful Podcast. Purposeful is a podcast by Nardi Media, created to amplify the voices of leaders, thinkers, and change makers who are using their platform to shape a better future.In this episode, host Ashley Bernardi, Founder and CEO of Nardi Media, is joined by Caroline Levander, a leader in higher education at Rice University and author of Invent ED: How an American Tradition of Innovation Can Transform College Today.If you’ve ever questioned whether college is truly preparing students for the real world, especially in an era shaped by rising costs, rapid technological change, and artificial intelligence, this conversation is for you. Caroline’s work sits at the intersection of creativity, discovery, and the future of learning. In Invent ED, she explores how higher education can move beyond box-checking and rankings to help students develop curiosity, confidence, and the ability to connect ideas across disciplines, skills that matter more than ever in an AI-enabled workforce. Together, Ashley and Caroline discuss why creativity has been sidelined in education, how academic culture can unintentionally limit innovative thinking, and what students, parents, and institutions often misunderstand about what college is really for. A core takeaway from this episode: College isn’t just about getting in, it’s about learning how to use the opportunity wisely for decades to come. What You’ll Learn: - Why creativity is essential, not optional, in the age of AI- How higher education drifted away from its innovation roots-What parents can do now to support creative, risk-tolerant learners- Why grades and rankings don’t tell the full story of success- How growth mindset shapes long-term career adaptability- What colleges must rethink to prepare students for the future- Practical advice for students navigating college with intentionAbout the Guest:Caroline Levander is a leader in higher education at Rice University and the author of Invent ED. Her work focuses on innovation, interdisciplinary learning, and helping institutions and students rethink how education prepares graduates for an evolving world.

Welcome to the Purposeful Podcast — Episode 1!This is the very first episode of The Purposeful Podcast by Nardi Media — a show created to amplify purpose-driven voices, nonprofits, and changemakers who are making the world a better place. Each episode spotlights leaders who are using their platform for good, sharing stories of impact, resilience, and real-world change.In this episode of the Purposeful Podcast, host Ashley Bernardi speaks with Stacey Efaw, Executive Director of Selah Freedom, to uncover how online predators target children—and the single most powerful step parents can take to stop them.Selah Freedom is a faith-based anti-human trafficking nonprofit organization (501c3) based in Florida with a mission to end sex trafficking and bring freedom to the exploited through five powerful programs: Awareness, Prevention, Outreach, Residential, and Consulting.Did you know 90% of traffickers begin their first interaction online? Stacey shares how traffickers identify vulnerable youth, what parents can do to safeguard their children, and why awareness and open communication are our strongest tools for prevention.What You’ll Learn: Why traffickers target children online—and how they choose victimsThe one simple parental action that can prevent exploitationHow education and open dialogue protect youth from online predationWhat parents, educators, and communities can do right nowHow Selah Freedom supports survivors and spreads prevention awareness

Purposeful is a show by Nardi Media created to amplify mission-driven voices and changemakers who are uplifting the world through resilience, service, and impact. Each episode spotlights leaders who choose meaning in the midst of adversity—and share the real stories behind the work.In this episode, host Ashley Bernardi, Founder and CEO of Nardi Media, sits down with Craig Grossi and Nora Parkington—husband and wife, and co-hosts of the Stubbornly Positive Podcast—to explore how one small act of hope can change everything.Craig, a military veteran and author of Craig & Fred, shares the moment in Afghanistan when a stray dog named Fred wagged his tail—an unexpected encounter that became the beginning of a purpose-driven movement rooted in resilience, creativity, and connection. Together, Craig and Nora unpack what “stubborn positivity” actually means (and what it does not), how storytelling and community can help us move through grief, and why their next chapter includes creating healing spaces for veterans and trauma survivors through writing.💬 A central reminder from this conversation:Stubborn positivity is not ignoring pain. It’s facing it—and still finding a reason to “wag your tail.”What You’ll Learn What “stubborn positivity” really is (and why it’s not toxic positivity)How a single moment of hope can create a ripple effect across a lifeWhy creativity and self-expression are powerful tools for healingHow Craig and Nora navigated grief after loss—and kept the bond aliveHow storytelling built a global audience (including the viral Dodo moment)What they’re building next: a writing retreat + nonprofit for healing through community

Welcome to the Purposeful Podcast.Purposeful is a podcast by Nardi Media, created to amplify the voices of leaders, advocates, and changemakers who are uplifting the world through courage, service, and truth.In this episode, host Ashley Bernardi, Founder and CEO of Nardi Media, sits down with Dr. Pamela J. Pine, a global public health leader, professor, bestselling author, and founder of Stop the Silence, a department of the Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma.Dr. Pine has spent decades working in international health, development, and communications. For the past 25 years, her work has focused on preventing and mitigating child sexual abuse and other adverse childhood experiences, an issue affecting millions, yet still surrounded by silence.This conversation explores what happens when we refuse to look away.Together, Ashley and Dr. Pine discuss why child sexual abuse remains so deeply hidden, how shame and discomfort perpetuate silence, where systems continue to fail children, and what parents, educators, leaders, and communities can do to protect young people and support survivors.A central truth from this episode:We know how to talk about difficult topics. We’ve done it before. We simply have to choose to do it again—for our children.What You’ll Learn:Why child sexual abuse remains one of the most under-addressed public health crisesHow silence, shame, and fear prevent disclosure and healingWhy education—not avoidance—is the key to preventionHow courts and institutions often fail survivorsWhat parents and caregivers should say when a child comes forwardHow advocacy, training, and community action can create safer environments What thriving after trauma can look like for survivors