Millan Foundation Conversations

In Episode Five of Cost of Admission, Nick Lavery sits down with Gary and Mari Linfoot to explore what happens when life changes in ways we never expected. After a 2008 helicopter crash left Gary paralyzed below the waist, the couple faced a new reality that would reshape their lives. Years later, Mari's Parkinson's diagnosis brought another unexpected challenge. Through it all, their faith and commitment to helping others have remained central to how they move forward. Together, they founded the American Mobility Project, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people with disabilities access the equipment and resources they need to live more independently. What began with a desire to help one person has grown into a mission that provides far more than mobility equipment. It offers people a connection to others who understand what they're going through. Together, Nick, Gary, and Mari discuss: • Why adapting to change is an ongoing process, not a one-time decision • The mental challenges of rebuilding your identity after a life-altering injury • How the American Mobility Project grew out of Gary and Mari's personal experiences • Why access to mobility equipment can restore independence and open new possibilities • The importance of connecting people who might otherwise feel alone in their circumstances • How faith helps them keep moving forward when life takes an unexpected turn Gary and Mari remind us that we don't always get to choose the circumstances we face, but we can choose how we respond. Their story is a powerful look at the purpose that can emerge from unexpected change and the difference we can make when we use our experiences to help someone else. The Cost of Admission is presented by the Millan Foundation, sharing real stories of purpose, service, and the price of giving back.

In Episode Four of Cost of Admission, Nick Lavery welcomes Jenn Miller, an ER nurse and co-founder of the disaster response nonprofit Beacon Rescue, for a raw conversation about what it takes to serve communities in their darkest moments. From hurricane-ravaged towns in North Carolina to earthquake zones in Turkey, Jenn opens up about the training, the faith, and the personal cost behind a life devoted to showing up for others. Together, Nick and Jenn discuss: • The difference between wanting to help and being equipped to help • Why self-reliance is a responsibility, not just a personal choice • The power of partnership when coordinating disaster relief • Humility as the foundation of any strong, high-performing community • The physical and emotional toll of frontline service • Faith, recovery, and knowing when to rest As communities across the country continue to face disaster and disruption, this episode is a reminder that the people who show up first are often the ones who've quietly paid the greatest cost to be ready.

In Episode Three of Cost of Admission, Nick Lavery sits down with retired Green Beret Terry Pevehouse for a powerful conversation about freedom, sacrifice, leadership, and family.   Drawing from decades of military service, combat deployments, and life after the Army, Terry shares what he’s learned about responsibility, intentionality, and the unseen costs carried not only by those who serve — but by the families who stand beside them.   Together, Nick and Terry discuss: • The true meaning of freedom • The sacrifices military families make behind the scenes • Balancing service, fatherhood, and professional life • The importance of being fully present at home • Why growth requires discomfort and responsibility • The choices and consequences that shape a meaningful life   As Memorial Day approaches, this episode serves as a reminder that freedom is never free — and that the greatest legacies are often built through quiet sacrifice, discipline, and service to others.

What does leadership really cost?   In this episode of The Cost of Admission, host Nick Lavery sits down with entrepreneur, Air Force veteran, and founder Leo Millan for a powerful conversation on what it takes to lead, build, and give back.   From scaling a multi-million dollar business to launching a foundation impacting lives locally and globally, Leo shares hard-earned lessons on trust, sacrifice, and the reality behind success that most people never see.   This episode dives into: The true definition of leadership (and why it’s not what you think) The “80/20 rule” of empowering people and letting go Why trust matters more than talent The sacrifices required to build something meaningful How purpose and service shape long-term success The real “cost of admission” to a life of impact If you’re chasing growth, building a team, or searching for purpose, then this conversation is for you.

Welcome to The Cost of Admission, a new podcast mini-series under Millan Foundation Conversations, hosted by Nick Lavery — active-duty Green Beret, leader, and advocate for purpose-driven living.   In this introductory episode, Nick shares the heart behind the series, the mission of the Millan Foundation, and the personal story that gave rise to the phrase “The Cost of Admission.”   This podcast is about more than inspiration — it’s about the real costs that come with living a life of purpose, service, and conviction. Through authentic conversations with veterans, community leaders, and everyday heroes, we explore resilience, sacrifice, discipline, faith, and the willingness to keep going when things get hard.   In Episode 1, Nick poses two foundational questions that will guide this entire series: • What is your mission? • And how far are you willing to go to make it real?   New episodes coming soon.

In this episode of Millan Foundation Conversations, we sit down with Suzanne Adkisson from Blood Assurance, and Sallie Eley from United Community Bank, to explore the life-saving impact of donating blood.   Together, they share why blood drives are so important for Clarksville, how local donations directly support hospitals and emergency services, and what to expect if you’re a first-time donor. From overcoming the fear of needles, to learning how your single donation can help multiple patients, this conversation highlights both the practical and emotional sides of giving back.   We also discuss the upcoming Millan Foundation “Give Back, Give Blood” drive happening October 3rd in The Jude Room, in Clarksville, TN, and how you can join in to make a difference. Whether you’re a seasoned donor or considering donating for the first time, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to take action.   🩸 Sign up today to donate blood on October 3rd! bit.ly/GiveBackGiveBloodClarksville

What started as a dream 15 years ago has become Clarksville's largest food distribution operation. CEO Vicki York shares the inspiring story behind Manna Cafe, from her late husband Kenny's vision to their current mission serving thousands weekly. This episode covers: The real face of homelessness (it's not what you think) How Manna Cafe operates 6 days a week with volunteers The upcoming Manna Market - a free grocery store concept A life-changing moment that sparked decades of service Beyond food distribution, Manna Cafe provides clothing, diapers, culinary training, and connections to other community resources. Want to help? Visit mannacafeministries.com to volunteer your time, make a donation, or support the Manna Market project.

In this episode of Millan Foundation Conversations, we’re diving into a life-changing initiative: Operation Hauling Hope. What started as a single truck of supplies in 2019 has grown into a powerful partnership between YAIpak Outreach, Charlie Koon with Legends Bank, and The Millan Foundation, delivering thousands of pounds of essential goods to military families, veterans, disaster survivors, students, and nonprofits across the region. Learn how this grassroots effort is bringing hope to Clarksville, TN and beyond—one truckload at a time—and how you can be part of it. ✅ Want to sponsor a truck? 💻 DONATE HERE: https://ppay.co/VCRtfkrDjcI 🛠️ Tangible needs: warehouse volunteers, truck sponsors, logistics connections, and community advocates. 🔗 For more, visit: MillanFamilyFoundation.org

In this episode of Millan Foundation Conversations, committee members Christian Christenson, Jim Durrett, Chris Reneau, and Jeff Truitt join us as we dive deeper into the heart of our outreach efforts. From ongoing projects to what’s ahead—including the 2025 Millan Foundation Banquet—this conversation is packed with purpose. Discover the heart of our mission, find meaningful ways to get involved, and make a lasting impact> millanfamilyfoundation.org. Sign up for our newsletter!>mailchi.mp/millanenterprises/foundation-newsletter. #MillanFoundationConversations #TheHeartofService #LiftingVisionsCraftingChange

In this episode, we take a candid look at why giving back matters. Join Mikeila Ramos, Ethan Jan, George Watson, and Jeff Truitt as they share their personal stories and explain the deeper meaning behind their work with the Community Outreach Committee. From eye-opening mission trips to Guatemala to strengthening local nonprofits, and much more, these incredible individuals open up about their why—why they serve, why they’re committed to making a difference, and why you should care, too. What you’ll hear in this episode: ➤ Ethan’s journey of providing medical care in places that need it most ➤ Why Mikeila feels a deep connection to helping kids in need ➤ George’s realization that impactful service doesn’t require big budgets, just heart ➤ Jeff’s perspective on the power of collaboration and how empowering others strengthens the overall impact of the Millan Foundation’s mission It’s an inspiring conversation that will make you think, feel, and maybe even take action. Want to watch along? Head over to our YouTube channel, where you can catch the full interview and explore all of our other powerful conversations with nonprofit leaders and community members who are making a difference every day. Be on the lookout for the second part of this series in our next episode, coming soon! Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7W_ajAkABG4 #MillanFoundation #CommunityImpact #ServiceWithPurpose #MakeADifference #NonprofitLeadership