Millan Foundation Conversations

United in Hope: Building Resilience After Hurricane Helene

Join us in this episode of Mion Foundation Conversations as host Rylan Kean sits down with Sherry Nicholson from YAIPak and Robert Pasquale from Beacon Rescue. Together, they delve into the vital roles their organizations play in disaster relief and community rebuilding efforts, particularly following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
Discover the inspiring stories of volunteers, the strategic partnerships formed to tackle immediate and long-term needs, and the challenges of delivering aid to remote areas affected by the storm. Learn how both organizations are committed to providing hope and essential resources to those impacted and how the community's resilience shines through in the aftermath of disaster.
Whether you're looking to volunteer, donate, or simply understand the impact of your support, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of coming together in times of need. Don't miss the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of compassion and collaboration driving recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Faith with Action: Mary Phil & Ralph Illges of Emmanuel Haiti

In this deeply heartfelt episode of Millan Foundation Conversations, we sit down with Mary Phil and Ralph Illges, the founders of Emmanuel Haiti, whose story will touch your soul. More than ten years ago, Mary Phil’s first trip to Haiti changed her life forever. She returned with an unshakable conviction: to build an orphanage for the children who had captured her heart. That dream became a reality thanks to the generosity of an anonymous $50,000 donation—a gift that was the beginning of something extraordinary.
Mary and Ralph share how the mission of Emmanuel Haiti grew, not just from a desire to help, but from the deep relationships they built. As they say, it wasn’t about the work itself—it was about being present. “We are here, and we’re coming back,” was their promise to the people of Haiti. Over the years, their belief in showing up for these children, who have so little yet are filled with joy, faith, and kindness, has driven every step they’ve taken.
Now, more than a decade later, Emmanuel Haiti has not only provided a home for orphaned children but has empowered the community to thrive. They’ve built businesses run by the very people they serve, including a bakery, a sewing shop, and even a radio station broadcasting Christian hope to millions. They’ve created a school for over 600 students and a Widow Village where women start their own businesses with loans—every single one repaid in full. The children they’ve helped raise have become entrepreneurs, and Emmanuel Haiti continues to create sustainable opportunities for them through livestock farming, transportation services, and more.
One of the most heartwarming stories they share is of a little girl back in the U.S., who, with the faith of a child, raised $28,000 selling apple cider to build four churches in Haiti. This episode is filled with moments like this—testimonies of how love, faith, and dedication can move mountains. Mary and Ralph have even helped send six young Haitians to medical school in Cuba, so they can return and care for their communities.
The work of Emmanuel Haiti is not just a mission, it’s a calling. Mary and Ralph have poured their hearts and souls into Haiti, leaving no stone unturned to create lasting change. Their story is one of faith, hope, and love in action. If you’re inspired by life-changing work and the power of human connection, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Answering the Call: Steve Moore's Journey from CEO to Lifesaver

In episode 4 of the Millan Foundation Conversations podcast, we are privileged to have Steve Moore, Founder and Chairman of The Shalom Foundation, join us for an unforgettable conversation. Hosted by Rylan Kean, Vice President of Real Estate at Millan Enterprises, this episode uncovers the remarkable journey of a man whose life was forever changed by a single mission trip to Guatemala.
Steve's story is nothing short of inspiring. From his influential role as CEO of the Country Music Association to founding a state-of-the-art medical facility, Centro Moore, in the heart of Guatemala, his path has been guided by a profound calling to serve others. It all began during Memorial Day weekend in 1998 when Steve set foot in Guatemala, not knowing that this trip would ignite a passion that would lead to the creation of The Shalom Foundation—a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to providing critical medical and nutritional care to underprivileged children.
In this episode, Steve shares his profound reflections on the power of mission trips, calling them the “best-kept secret.” He explains, "For me—you experience the presence of God in those places like you never have before, anywhere. Not in church, not in Bible study, not driving down a dirt road. You just don't experience it like you do there. It's very... it's dominant. It's heavy and it's emotional. So, that was my experience in 1998. And so, 26 years later, what I didn't know was, what God knew was, He was planning all of this back then—for this—for this day here where we would celebrate 10,000 surgeries—20-something years later."
For over 25 years, The Shalom Foundation has been a lifeline for countless families, bringing hope where there was none and healing where it was desperately needed. In this episode, Steve opens his heart, sharing the raw and emotional moments that have shaped his journey. He talks about experiencing the overwhelming presence of God during that first mission trip, a feeling so powerful that it changed the course of his life. Steve's humility shines through as he recalls questioning his own qualifications, only to find comfort in the words, "God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called."
Steve's message is clear: everyone has the power to make a difference. You don’t have to do everything, but you can do something. His story is a testament to the impact one person can have when they choose to follow their calling.
If you’re passionate about philanthropy, global missions, or simply want to hear a story that will move your heart and inspire your soul, this is an episode you cannot miss. Tune in to witness how one man’s vision has brought light, hope, and healing to those who need it most. Let Steve Moore’s journey remind you that we all have the ability to change the world—one act of kindness at a time.

Hard Work & Faith: The Leo Millan Story

In the latest episode of Millan Foundation Conversations, Leo Millan sits down with his dear friend Jeff Truitt, the Executive Vice President of Operations for SERVPRO, Team Nicholson for an intimate and inspiring discussion.
This episode offers a glimpse into the life of Leo Millan, covering his early years, family background, military service, and the diverse career paths that led him to where he is today.
Leo shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey, including how he discovered his faith and the motivations that drive him and his family. If you've ever wanted to understand the man behind Millan Enterprises and the Millan Foundation, this episode is for you. Don't miss this opportunity to hear Leo Millan's life story, his vision for the future, and the passion that fuels his commitment to making a difference.
Tune in for an episode filled with personal anecdotes, heartfelt reflections, and inspiring lessons. Don't forget to visit MillanFamilyFoundation.org to stay up to date with everything going on at the Millan Foundation and to watch our podcast episodes on our YouTube channel. Thank you for listening to Millan Foundation Conversations, and until next time, Do The Next Kind Thing.

Conversations of Change: Igniting Social Impact

Welcome to Millan Foundation Conversations, where philanthropy meets passion and every episode fuels your drive to make a difference.
Our podcast delves deep into the heart of community engagement, volunteerism, and the transformative power of nonprofit work.
Join us as we sit down with inspiring nonprofits, trailblazing changemakers, and visionary leaders who share their unique insights on creating impactful social change.
Whether it's discussing innovative solutions, mental health initiatives, or the latest in social impact strategies, Millan Foundation Conversations bring you stories that inspire, inform, and ignite your commitment to making the world better.

Empowering Change: Scot Coulter’s Journey with La Via Missions

Welcome to Millan Foundation Conversations, where we talk all things community, philanthropy, and connect people together. We hope you enjoy our show.
In this episode, host Rylan Kean sits down with Scot Coulter, Millan Enterprises Project Manager and a passionate leader who founded La Via Missions. Scot shares his inspiring journey from Clarksville, TN, to leading impactful mission projects in Guatemala. Learn about the heartwarming story of La Via Missions, the challenges faced by communities in need, and how Scot and his team are dedicated to providing hope and lasting change.
Get ready to be moved by the heartwarming tale of this incredible nonprofit. Learn about the struggles faced by communities in need and how Scot and his team are bringing hope and lasting change and empowering locals with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
Join us for this heartfelt conversation and find out how you can support La Via Missions and other initiatives through the Millan Foundation. Visit millanfamilyfoundation.org to stay up to date with everything going on and to explore ways to contribute.
Thank you for listening to Millan Foundation Conversations. Until next time, Do The Next Kind Thing.

You Are Important: Sherry Nicholson with YAIPak Outreach

Welcome to Millan Foundation Conversations, where we talk all things community, philanthropy, and connect people together.
In our inaugural episode, we are joined by Sherry Nicholson, CEO and Founder of YAIPak Outreach, to discuss the powerful mission of the Millan Foundation and its deep connection with her team. Our gracious host for this episode is Reagan Prather, Leadership & Mental Performance Coach at Top Mental Game. Sherry shares her heartfelt journey from discovering an elderly homeless woman on the streets to establishing YAIPAk, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing hope, support, and resources to those in need.
Throughout this episode, you'll hear about the incredible relationships and bonds formed through YAIPak's outreach, as well as the various projects that have grown from addressing gaps in community resources. Learn about the impact of Be the Hope, Project Foster Hope, Project Patriot Hope, and Project Rebuild Hope, each designed to cater to different populations in need.
Sherry emphasizes the importance of respecting and valuing volunteers' time, cultivating genuine relationships, and creating an atmosphere of acceptance. She also shares her vision for the future, including expanding YAIPak to other states and establishing a ranch for children affected by severe trauma.
Join us as we dive into the awe-inspiring stories of transformation, miracles, and the unwavering commitment to loving God's people well. This episode is a testament to the power of Faith, Community, Outreach and Connection and the incredible impact that can be achieved when we come together for a greater cause.
Don't forget to visit MillanFamilyFoundation.org to stay up to date with everything going on at the Millan Foundation and to watch our podcast episodes on our YouTube channel. Thank you for listening to Millan Foundation Conversations, and until next time, Do The Next Kind Thing.