Welcome to The Route to Success with Sarah Orellana.

In this episode, Sarah sits down with David Bakelman, a seasoned nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience leading regional, national, and global organizations. Known for stepping into complex environments and driving transformational growth, David shares practical leadership lessons that apply whether you are early in your career or running a multi million dollar organization.

This conversation dives into what it really takes to scale impact without losing culture, burn out, or clarity.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• Why infrastructure determines whether growth will succeed or collapse
• What strong nonprofit foundations actually look like behind the scenes
• How to hire high performing teams that align with mission and values
• Why hiring is the most important responsibility of any leader
• How to balance aggressive growth goals with long term stability
• The truth about career transitions and why moving every few years is not failure
• How to avoid complacency and stay challenge driven
• Practical habits that build resilience during layoffs, setbacks, and pressure
• How AI and technology are transforming nonprofit fundraising
• Why data analysis and predictive donor research are game changers
• The role of mentorship in building a sustainable leadership career
• Why leadership can feel lonely and how to protect your mental clarity

David also shares candid reflections on being let go, leaving roles during family caregiving seasons, and how resilience is built through adaptation rather than avoidance. His perspective reframes setbacks as strategic pivots instead of personal defeat.

If you work in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, executive management, or are building your career in mission driven organizations, this episode offers actionable insights you can apply immediately.

Topics covered include nonprofit growth strategy, board development, hiring best practices, fundraising innovation, AI in nonprofits, executive leadership, resilience mindset, work life balance, mentorship, and career development.

Connect with David Bakelman on LinkedIn - [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/)

Subscribe to The Route to Success for real conversations on hope, resilience, leadership, and building impact that lasts.

In this special episode of The Route to Success, Sara Orellana shares her journey of leadership through storytelling, resilience, and the importance of hope as a skill. She discusses how her childhood experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and the power of narratives in connecting with others. The dialogue explores the dynamics of leadership, the costs associated with it, and the significance of creating safe spaces for team members. Sara emphasizes the importance of bridging storytelling with data to drive action and the necessity of supporting leaders through challenges. Ultimately, she defines success not by personal achievements but by the positive impact one can have on others.

What you'll learn:

Hope is a skill that can be developed.
Storytelling is a powerful tool in leadership.
Creating safe spaces fosters better leadership.
Leadership often involves making difficult decisions.
Success is defined by the impact on others, not personal gain.
Building resilience requires small, actionable steps.
Investing in others can lead to personal healing.
Data enhances the power of storytelling.
Leadership is about creating environments for solutions.
Courage in leadership often means facing fears. 

Connect with Sara via https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/

In this conversation, Toivo E Halvorsen shares his journey as a hospitality entrepreneur shaped by economic challenges and personal growth. He discusses the importance of resilience, the value of human connections in business, and the lessons learned during the pandemic. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of a mission-driven approach to entrepreneurship, the necessity of embracing challenges, and the role of physical movement in leadership.

In this episode, you'll learn :

Toivo's journey reflects the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship.
Human connections are crucial for business success, especially during crises.
The pandemic highlighted the value of relationships over mere financial transactions.
A mission-driven business can thrive even in challenging times.
Embracing challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Personal growth is a continuous journey for both individuals and organizations.
Physical movement and mindfulness practices are essential for effective leadership.
Understanding the cycle of life helps in navigating business challenges.
It's important to discern the voice that says you don't have time for self-care.
You are not defined by your thoughts; awareness is key to personal growth.

Connect with Tovio via https://www.linkedin.com/in/toivohalvorsen/

In this conversation, Matt Tanner, Executive Director of United Against Poverty, shares his journey from Peace Corps volunteer to nonprofit leader. He discusses the importance of community relationships, the challenges faced during COVID-19, and the effectiveness of wraparound services in addressing poverty. Matt emphasizes the need for dignity in service, the value of humor in emotionally demanding work, and the lessons learned from diverse experiences that shape his leadership style. He also offers advice for those looking to enter the nonprofit sector, highlighting the importance of due diligence and finding the right fit in volunteer opportunities.

What you'll learn :
Community service is about building relationships and trust.
The Peace Corps experience teaches humility and the importance of listening.
Navigating career transitions can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Wraparound services provide comprehensive support for those in need.
Dignity and respect are essential in service work.
Humor can lighten the emotional weight of challenging work.
Effective leadership involves empowering team members and valuing their strengths.
Continuous professional development is crucial for nonprofit staff.
Not all volunteer experiences are equal; find the right fit.
Community needs are evolving, and organizations must adapt to serve effectively.

Connect with Matt via https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtanner1/

In this conversation, Mario Articona, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Miami, shares his journey from government and real estate to nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the importance of hope, resilience, and community service. He discusses the philosophy of providing a 'hand up' rather than a 'handout' and the emotional impact of homeownership on families. Mario highlights the significance of building a mission-driven culture within his organization, navigating challenges, and maintaining healthy board engagement. He concludes with a call to action for kindness and service in everyday life.

Connect with Mario here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-artecona-3347545/

Takeaways

Mario's journey reflects a commitment to meaningful work over lucrative opportunities.
Habitat for Humanity focuses on providing opportunities, not just housing.
The emotional impact of homeownership can transform families' lives.
Building a strong team culture is essential for nonprofit success.
Navigating challenges requires a supportive and solution-oriented approach.
Healthy board engagement is crucial for organizational effectiveness.
Leaders should prioritize kindness and service in their communities.
Maintaining a clear mission helps prevent burnout and mission drift.
Fostering a nurturing environment leads to low employee turnover.
Acts of kindness can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.

What does it take to bring high-speed internet to communities often overlooked in America’s infrastructure plans?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Colin Garner, an expert in rural broadband and infrastructure, to explore the challenges and transformative opportunities of connecting underserved areas. Colin shares how his journey from mining engineering led him into the world of broadband construction, where geography, cost, and technical hurdles create unique obstacles—but also profound rewards.

Through stories from rural communities, Colin highlights how broadband transforms education, agriculture, and daily life. He emphasizes that resilience, curiosity, and problem-solving are critical to success, and he offers practical advice for aspiring engineers seeking fulfilling careers. Colin also reflects on the future of infrastructure in America, stressing the importance of digital equity and the human impact of connectivity.

In this episode, we cover:

Colin Garner’s path from mining engineering to rural broadband infrastructure

Unique challenges of building broadband networks in underserved areas

The transformative impact of connectivity on education, agriculture, and community life

Lessons in resilience and problem-solving through complex construction projects

Decisions in infrastructure design, like burying lines vs. using existing poles

Heartfelt community reactions to access and connectivity

The future of rural infrastructure and emerging technologies

Advice for aspiring engineers and the importance of finding passion in your work

Why digital equity is critical for thriving communities

The growing dependency on internet connectivity in modern life

Colin reminds listeners that hope alone isn’t enough—it must be paired with skill, persistence, and enjoyment of your work. His insights provide both inspiration and actionable advice for engineers, leaders, and anyone invested in building stronger, connected communities.

👉 Learn more about Colin Garner:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingarnerpeng/

What does it take to turn personal adversity into lifelong advocacy and meaningful change?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Michael J. Langley, executive director of the Florida Justice Institute, to explore the power of resilience, grit, and community-focused leadership. Michael shares how growing up in a challenging environment shaped his lifelong commitment to supporting marginalized communities and closing opportunity gaps.

Through stories from his upbringing in rural Virginia, his civic engagement with the NAACP, and interactions with civil rights leaders like the late Muhammad Ali and Dr. King’s family, Michael illustrates the lessons that guide his work today. He explains how small, persistent actions compound into real change, and why showing up authentically is critical when leading organizations that serve vulnerable populations.

In this episode, we cover:

Michael’s early experiences with adversity and the growth mindset lessons they inspired

How personal resilience translates to leadership and advocacy

The importance of seeing and giving a voice to marginalized individuals

How the Florida Justice Institute empowers communities through access to justice, housing, and resources for people with disabilities

Practical ways listeners can support systemic change through time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony

Strategies for maintaining hope and self-care while working with vulnerable populations

How setbacks and challenges strengthen grit and reinforce leadership principles

The role of public-private partnerships, faith leaders, and community engagement in social change

Upcoming opportunities to support Florida Justice Institute, including Miami Gives Day

Michael emphasizes that no action is too small—from volunteering, sharing connections, or donating, every contribution fuels transformative progress. His insights are a blueprint for anyone looking to make a tangible impact while cultivating empathy, resilience, and leadership in their own communities.

👉 Learn more about Michael J. Langley and the Florida Justice Institute:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelangleyfl/

https://fji.law/

How do you take a personal tragedy and turn it into a movement that supports families and accelerates pediatric cancer research?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Oscar Ortiz, co-founder of Sebastian Strong, to explore his journey from the devastating loss of his son to creating a nonprofit that fills critical gaps in childhood cancer care. Oscar shares the inspiration behind the foundation, the development of the innovative Navigator program, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit with a mission-driven, business-minded approach.

Oscar dives deep into how Sebastian Strong focuses on:

Accelerating pediatric cancer research

Providing comprehensive resources for families

Raising awareness of the critical gaps in treatment

Building sustainable, mission-driven nonprofit operations

Throughout the conversation, Oscar emphasizes the moral imperative of prioritizing children’s health over profit, the importance of authentic messaging, and the power of community support to create meaningful change.

In this episode, we cover:

The personal journey that led to founding Sebastian Strong

Gaps in pediatric cancer treatment and research funding

The moral obligation of healthcare systems for children

Lessons in building a nonprofit that functions like a business

How the Navigator program helps families navigate complex care

Strategies for raising awareness and increasing support

The importance of authentic, heartfelt communication

Practical ways listeners can get involved and make an impact

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in childhood cancer advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and making a real difference in the lives of families affected by pediatric cancer. Oscar’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of loss, purpose and action can create lasting change.

👉 Learn more about Oscar Ortiz and Sebastian Strong:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscarportiz/

https://sebastianstrong.org/

Discover how true workplace flexibility transforms productivity, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build a judgment-free work culture - one where employees are empowered to work in the ways that serve them best. From remote work freedoms to respecting personal commitments, this conversation breaks down the difference between saying you offer flexibility and actually creating an environment where people can thrive.

You'll hear why clear boundaries matter, how trust fuels better results, and why honoring individual needs—from kids’ events to caring for pets—creates a happier, more productive team. Whether you're a leader shaping company culture or a professional seeking a healthier work environment, this episode offers valuable insight into building a workplace that genuinely supports people.

Topics Covered:
✔ Real flexibility vs. performative flexibility
✔ Empowerment and autonomy at work
✔ Creating a judgment-free, trust-driven environment
✔ Remote work and results-focused productivity
✔ Work-life balance without guilt
✔ The power of strong boundaries
✔ Improving client satisfaction through empowered teams

If you care about better workplaces, modern culture, and happier teams, this conversation is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Christine on : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarney/

On this episode of the Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Jose Vazquez-Rojel to explore the world of authentic travel and community-centered tourism. Jose shares his insights on how travelers can move beyond cookie-cutter tourist experiences to truly engage with local cultures, history, and communities.

From understanding the commercialization of tourism to uncovering the secret to meaningful travel, this conversation highlights how authentic experiences can restore your soul, connect you with real communities, and even inspire scalable business models.

Whether you’re a traveler, entrepreneur, or curious about the future of tourism, this episode provides actionable insights on embracing authenticity in travel while respecting the cultures you visit.

Listen in and discover why “the authentic of each destination is how people live.”

🔑 Takeaways

The secret to really good travel is getting off the beaten track.

Experiencing real community is essential for soul restoration.

Tourism is increasingly commercialized and homogenized, losing authenticity.

Many tourist offerings are identical across cities, ignoring local uniqueness.

Authenticity in travel is tied to local history, culture, and daily life.

There’s a growing need for scalable business models in authentic travel.

Travel should reflect how people actually live in a destination.

Commercial tourism often overlooks the unique aspects of local culture.

Authentic experiences lead to more meaningful, transformative travel.

The future of tourism should focus on genuine community engagement.