In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Mike Sutton, the President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties to discuss the non-profit organization’s impactful work. 

Mike shares how Habitat for Humanity's mission goes beyond simply building homes — delving into its holistic approach to empowering families through affordable homeownership. He explains how Habitat's sustainable housing model and comprehensive support system, including financial education and sweat equity programs, drive lasting community transformation. Their conversation also highlights the importance of aligning one's career with a sense of purpose and the ability to change lives, rather than solely focusing on monetary gain.

Tune in with Dr. Tonjua and Mike and discover how Habitat for Humanity is transforming communities and breaking the cycle of poverty, one family at a time. 

KEY POINTS: 

[00:51] Introduction of Mike Sutton and his son

[02:48] The start of Habitat for Humanity and its impact 

[05:22] Examples of Habitat for Humanity transformative journeys

[09:27] Habitat for Humanity's approach to building partnerships

[11:02] The vision of families breaking the cycle of poverty

[13:22] The process and average applicants for Habitat for Humanity

[14:37] How Habitat for Humanity builds partnerships

[15:52] How SPC and Habitat can support each other

[18:11] What other voluntary activities Mike are active in

[19:53] Mike’s advice to students interested in joining a non-profit 

[23:13] Balancing happiness and financial stability in career

[30:15] Ways of sustaining Habitat for Humanity 

QUOTABLES: 

"Habitat for Humanity — they have the secret sauce. And so, if you are looking for a home and an opportunity; and you're willing to work and make those changes and adjustments, you could do that through this amazing organization.” – Dr. Tonjua Williams

“I joke that you'll never be a millionaire working in the nonprofit sector, but the enrichment that it gives you, in terms of giving back to the community — feeling good about what you do—changing people's lives." – Mike Sutton

GUEST RESOURCES:

Mike Sutton 

LinkedIn | @mesutton

RESOURCES:

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/ 

In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Braulio Colón, Executive Director of the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), to discuss the pressing issues and innovative solutions in Florida's education system. Colón sheds light on the persistent gaps in access and achievement for Black students and emphasizes the need for targeted, data-driven strategies to address these disparities. The conversation highlights the promising initiatives in place, including the Promise Scholarship at St. Petersburg College, which offers free education to students from poverty-stricken high schools. Colón also advocates for community-wide efforts to support education and tackle generational poverty, ultimately aiming to enhance Florida's workforce and economic growth. Tune in to explore how strategic leadership and community engagement are paving the way for a more equitable educational landscape.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/14-empowering-floridas-future-addressing-skills-gap/id1736752420?i=1000669774442

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4m20XmRJCieyEvMaQO51t7?si=cdf000744f21486c

Youtube: https://youtu.be/ImA8S2gHfiE?si=z5jyuaKoS2W-D4B2

GUEST RESOURCES: 

Braulio Colón

LinkedIn |@/braulio-col%C3%B3n-509406a/ 

RESOURCES:

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/ 

In this powerful episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with The Honorable Patrice Moore, the first African American female judge in Florida's Sixth Circuit. Judge Moore opens up about her inspiring journey from aspiring electrical engineer to becoming a respected judge. She shares the challenges of law school, the moments that shaped her career, and the unwavering faith that carried her through it all.

With heart and candor, Judge Moore discusses the weight of making life-changing decisions in the courtroom, her commitment to fairness, and the importance of prayer. She also reflects on the importance of giving back to the community, particularly through youth engagement, and how higher education institutions can better support their local communities.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a trailblazing judge who balances justice with compassion. Don’t miss Judge Moore’s reflections on her path, her faith, and her legacy.

KEY POINTS: 

[01:40] - Hon. Moore’s journey to becoming a Judge 

[03:38] - How Mr. Bob Dillinger inspired Hon. Moore to be a Judge

[05:10] - On balancing Judicial responsibilities and personal life

[06:42] - The importance of fairness, integrity, and respect in Judicial decisions

[10:47] - Hon. Moore’s passion to help the community

[12:16] - Judge’s POV: The pivotal role of support in education

[14:43] - Giving back to others with faith and gratitude

[16:14] - Ways to Stand In The Gap – generational understanding

[22:23] - On addressing challenges in childcare

QUOTABLES: 

“Dare to dream. There's nothing special about me. It was the favor and grace of God. I would tell you to please, pursue your dreams —because being the first should not mean that I am the last.” – Hon. Patrice Moore

“You have to give back to the community that was so good to you in order for you to be true to the community. And so, it is a must.” – Hon. Patrice Moore

GUEST RESOURCES:

Judge Patrice Moore  | @the-honorable-patrice-moore/ 

RESOURCES:

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/

In this insightful segment, Ryan Quattlebaum discusses how Advent Health is embracing emerging technologies in healthcare. He shares the innovative ways technology is being integrated into patient care, from AI-enhanced tools to robotic surgery, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a balance between technology and human connection. Ryan illustrates how partnering cutting-edge technology with skilled professionals can revolutionize patient outcomes, making care more efficient and recovery times shorter, all while ensuring that the personal, compassionate aspect of healthcare remains at the forefront.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/13-from-the-ground-up-choosing-courage-over-comfort/id1736752420?i=1000668115121

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2mHWrn52Q9fi0nxyMwWdF2?si=efb0dbd2abec41a0

Youtube: https://youtu.be/7k9k6oUNpyk?si=tbunhCsxOTro6Bin

GUEST RESOURCES:

Ryan Quattlebaum 

LinkedIn | @ryan-quattlebaum-1382b23/ 

RESOURCES:

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/ 

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams engages with Joshua Bomstein, the President of Creative Contractors Inc., for a thought-provoking conversation about leadership, organizational culture, and the significance of community engagement.

Josh shares his inspiring journey from Dunedin, Florida, discussing how his parents instilled in him a commitment to giving back to the community. He reflects on his volunteer work with the Holocaust Museum and the St. Petersburg College Foundation, underscoring the mission of his company to create impactful structures, such as schools and hospitals, that serve the community.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into talent acquisition in the construction industry, the critical importance of hiring for core values, and how family support has been instrumental in his success. Join Dr. Tonjua Williams and Joshua Bomstein as they explore the essential role of strong leadership and community involvement in building a thriving organization. 

KEY POINTS: 

[01:09] - Joshua’s background and family influence on community giving

[02:52] - Holocaust museum board and the importance of their mission

[04:40] - More examples of Joshua’s volunteerism in the community, including SPC

[07:14] - Creative Contractors' job opportunities beyond construction

[10:03] - Challenges of finding talent in the construction industry

[13:47] - What’s the most prideful moment of Joshua as a CEO? 

[15:14] - The importance of people and culture for company reputation 

[17:54] - How Joshua trains a new member of the team 

[21:31] - Key traits to look for when hiring a talent

QUOTABLES: 

"Whether it's creative contractors or volunteering at the college or the Holocaust Museum or other entities, it really comes down to people. All of the volunteer work is to impact human lives." – Joshua Bomstein 

“Your people help build your reputation. And if the people are not good, then the reputation suffers. You do need to understand that you are who you work for and what you do.” — Dr. Tonjua Williams 

"Being a good leader, in a lot of ways, is a simple thing. It's just about being a good-natured human being, connecting with others, and listening — really listening—because listening is an important skill and very valuable to be a good leader." – Joshua Bomstein 

GUEST RESOURCES:

Joshua Bomstein 

LinkedIn | @joshua-bomstein-leed-ap-6389952 

RESOURCES:

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/ 

In this segment, we delve into St. Petersburg College's leading role in workforce development and economic mobility. Join Dr. Tonjua Williams and the SPC faculty as they discuss the college’s initiatives to bridge the gap between education and career success. They explore the college's partnerships with industry leaders like Bank of America, which have led to high job placement rates and innovative learning environments like the Chris Sprowls Workforce Innovation Hub. They emphasize the importance of teamwork, community, and leveraging advanced technology to prepare students for lucrative and fulfilling careers. Discover how SPC is redefining higher education and workforce readiness.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/12-testimonials-with-spc-faculty-from-workforce/id1736752420?i=1000665958265

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5ObApLjspnswOPFeJeu96P?si=48147b8baa38438c

Youtube: https://youtu.be/D8JiyCKjKM0?si=TBR68OkVjXxP4F7o

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Mary Pat King, CEO of Girl Scouts of West Central Florida, to explore the profound and lasting impact of Girl Scouts on young girls’ lives.

Together, they delve into how the organization fosters confidence, leadership, and essential life skills, empowering girls to reach their fullest potential. From the entrepreneurial lessons of the iconic Girl Scout Cookie program to the critical importance of family engagement, Mary Pat shares insights into how Girl Scouts equips girls for success. They also discuss the organization's efforts to expand its reach to underserved communities, ensuring every girl has the opportunity to thrive.

Join Dr. Tonjua and Mary Pat for an inspiring conversation on how Girl Scouts is shaping tomorrow’s leaders and creating a ripple effect of positive change in the lives of young women.

KEY POINTS: 

[02:07] - Mary’s introduction to Girl Scouts 

[03:09] - The passion for building youth confidence and potential

[07:00] - How Girl Scout programs develop skills in STEM, health, and outdoors

[13:25] - The entrepreneurial learning in the Girl Scout cookie program

[18:17] - Some public community events hosted by Girl Scouts

[20:43] - Concerns about social media's impact on youth mental health

[24:19] - Mary's leadership development through Positive Intelligence program

[32:07] - The role of mentorship and high awards coaches in Girl Scouts

[41:34] - Mary Pat's advice for aspiring leaders on humility and self-care

QUOTABLES: 

"I love to see confidence grow. I love to see youth who didn't think they could do something, and then they do it." - Mary Pat King

"Girl Scouts is one of the few programs where the mother, the grandmother, the aunt, the sister, can be side by side, experiencing things for the first time together." - Mary Pat King

GUEST RESOURCES:

Mary Pat King 

LinkedIn | @marypatking

RESOURCES:

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/ 

In this segment, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Dawn Joyce, a communications professor at SPC, to explore the integration of emerging technologies like ChatGPT and AI in writing instruction. Dawn addresses the challenges faced by adult learners, emphasizing the importance of understanding and utilizing these tools responsibly. Through engaging analogies and practical advice, she highlights how these technologies can assist students while underscoring the irreplaceable value of genuine learning and critical thinking. Tune in to discover strategies for embracing AI in education and helping students navigate the evolving landscape of writing and technology.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/11-helping-students-cross-the-stage-how-dawn-joyce-is/id1736752420?i=1000664437440

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6NaWlah3f0EvdpDvNITY5H?si=5c0f041b329948d2

Youtube: https://youtu.be/VZY6FQ5vm50?feature=shared



RESOURCES:

GUEST RESOURCES

Dawn Joyce

LinkedIn | @dawn-joyce

RESOURCES

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/ 

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Braulio Colón, Executive Director of the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), for a powerful discussion on education, equity, and economic growth.

FCAN is dedicated to achieving Florida's ambitious goal of ensuring that 60% of adults hold high-quality degrees, credentials, or training by 2030. Under Braulio's leadership, the organization is at the forefront of bridging the skills gap and enhancing access to postsecondary education across the state.

Their conversation dives deep into the critical connection between educational attainment and economic prosperity. Braulio highlights Florida’s growing skills gap, the long-term impact this has on the economy, and the financial challenges faced by high-achieving, low-income students. They also explore the essential policies needed to break down barriers and provide meaningful support to students on their path to success.

Join us as we uncover how education, policy, and economic development intersect, and why ensuring access to quality education for all is key to a thriving future.

KEY POINTS: 

- [1:29] Colón’s journey to being a leader in education and career development

- [05:52] FCAN's efforts to support learners and collaborate with communities

- [12:21] Upcoming programs from SPC for students

- [13:19] Addressing barriers to college completion for adult learners in Florida

- [15:40] Navigating college value, short-term credentials, and workforce needs

- [21:21] Aid program and its potential expansion to help more students with scholarships

- [26:30] How education and community support can help families out of poverty

- [31:43] The pivotal role of having a mentor and education 

- [44:04] One of the ways how SPC stands in the gap: Promise Scholarships

QUOTABLES: 

“I have experienced the transformational power of education. I think for all first-generation students who have succeeded in this. They are the ambassadors, they understand.” — Braulio Colón

“When you get that opportunity, make sure you take that opportunity. Whether you're going to be the mentor or the person who needs to be mentored.” –  Dr. Tonjua Williams

“There's a role for employers to play here. Whether it's a tuition, reimbursement program, or some flexibility in their work week to allow — perhaps online course taking or things like that, it's a partnership that allows a whole family to win in this space. FCAN wants to make it about community.” — Braulio Colón

GUEST RESOURCES: 

Braulio Colón

LinkedIn |@/braulio-col%C3%B3n-509406a/ 

RESOURCES:

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/ 

In this segment, Gary Hartfield delves into the inevitability of failure and adversity in leadership and entrepreneurship. He shares personal anecdotes and powerful stories, including the challenges faced by Pastor TD Jakes, to illustrate how resilience and faith can help overcome setbacks. Gary emphasizes the importance of enduring trials as a necessary component of success and leadership.

Listen to the full episode here

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/10-leading-with-heart-gary-hartfield-on-service/id1736752420?i=1000663048345

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7MDIR5Rnc7B5TzN1gYgocL?si=5c0b1a8cbf2f495f

Youtube: https://youtu.be/3sVfyMVmUMQ?si=207oDNJkqJpCpiqW

RESOURCES:

GUEST RESOURCES

Gary Hartfield

Website | https://garyhartfield.com/ 

RESOURCES

St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege 

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC 

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college 

X | @spcnews 

Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/