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.

Gary and Mari LinFoot, founders of the American Mobility Project (AMP), share their inspiring journey and the transformative mission of their organization to provide life-changing mobility equipment to individuals with disabilities. After Gary, a former Army helicopter pilot, was severely injured in 2008, he turned his personal challenge into a powerful mission. Using advanced mobility technologies like the iBot wheelchair and exoskeletons, Gary and Mari have helped over 60 individuals regain their independence, autonomy, and quality of life. Founded in 2019, AMP has grown significantly with the support of both national partners and local communities. The LinFoots discuss the tangible impact of their work—transforming lives by restoring access to mobility and enabling full integration into the community. Their story is a testament to the profound difference that hope, technology, and human connection can make in people’s lives.

🌎Clarksville Feeds The World🌎 Can you believe it? Clarksville is coming together to FEED THE WORLD! In this special podcast episode, we’re joined by Mike Burnette, pastor of LifePoint Church, dear friend of our founder Leo Millan, and a dedicated servant to our Clarksville community.💛 How YOU Can Help: 1️⃣ Pray: Lift up this event in prayer. Pray for those we’re serving, for our volunteers, and for the lives that will be changed across the globe.🙏 2️⃣ Give: Help us grow this mission! Whether you’re an individual or a business, your support can make a lasting impact. Become a sponsor or donate today! 👉 Donate here! 3️⃣ Share: Spread the word! Tell your friends, family, and network about Clarksville Feeds The World. Together, we can extend our reach and amplify our impact. This is just the beginning, and the future is even brighter. Clarksville, you’re making history—one act of love at a time.

In this episode of 'Millan Foundation Conversations,' we engage with the founders of Coalition for Cause and Judy's Hope, two nonprofits dedicated to supporting women and children in Clarksville, Tennessee. They share their personal journeys, the challenges they've faced, and their unwavering commitment to making a difference in the community. Through candid discussions, we explore how these organizations have transformed skepticism into success, built supportive communities, and provided essential resources to those in need. Their stories are a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of collective action. Tune in to be inspired by their dedication and learn how you can get involved in supporting local nonprofits that are changing lives every day. Your participation can help continue the mission of hope and empowerment within our community.

In our newest episode of Millan Foundation Conversations, our team who recently returned from a life-changing community mission trip to Guatemala, reflect on the profound experiences that shaped their journey, from building connections with local communities to witnessing the resilience and hope of those they served. This episode offers a glimpse into the transformative power of service and the importance of giving back. It’s a call to action for anyone inspired to help, whether through future mission trips, donating resources, or simply spreading awareness. Tune in to hear how this team turned compassion into action—and learn how you can join them in making a lasting impact. Together, we can build bridges of hope, one trip, and one heart at a time.