Mary is joined by Kelly Thompson, Daisy Moran (Quad Cities Community Foundation), and Evette Cardona (Polk Bros. Foundation) for a powerful conversation on the philosophies and practices of philanthropy.

They reflect on their personal paths into the sector, the shift from charity to solidarity, and what it means to fund with equity, trust, and imagination. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating, challenging, or reimagining the philanthropic space.

Episode Highlights:
- How Kelly, Daisy, and Evette each found their way into philanthropy and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
- The growing call for philanthropy to move beyond charity toward solidarity, trust, and systems change.
- What gives each guest hope for the future of the sector, from young leaders to activist-informed grantmaking.

Links and Resources:
- Polk Bros. Foundation – www.polkbrosfdn.org
- Quad Cities Community Foundation – www.qccommunityfoundation.org

In this special live episode of “Gathering Ground,” Mary sits down with journalist Natalie Moore to talk about her new podcast, “Making: Stories Without End.” The series explores the cultural and political power of soap operas—yes, soap operas—and why they deserve a second look.

Episode Highlights:
- The untold history of Erna Phillips and the women behind soap opera innovation
- How soaps pioneered social issue storytelling through shows like “One Life to Live” and “Guiding Light”
- Natalie’s behind-the-scenes experience at “Days of Our Lives” and her journey creating this podcast passion project

Links and Resources:
- Making: Stories Without End – www.wbez.org/making-stories-without-end
- WBEZ – www.wbez.org
- Natalie Moore – www.natalieymoore.com

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Gathering Ground and leave us a review! Follow Morten Group, LLC on Instagram @mortengroup for more updates.

In this episode of “Gathering Ground,” host Mary Morten speaks with Juan Pablo Torres-Meza and Shirlonda Brooks from Elevate. In this third and final episode in our series with Elevate, the three discuss how equity and sustainability intersect in workforce development. This conversation dives into how Elevate is equipping individuals and small businesses with the tools, training, and long-term support to thrive in the clean energy economy—especially those from communities historically excluded from these opportunities.

Episode Highlights:
- How Elevate provides mentorship, skills training, and access to capital for workforce and business development
- Shirlonda’s insights on flexible program design and holistic support for reskilling and upskilling
- Juan Pablo’s breakdown of the Clean Energy Business Accelerator and how it removes barriers for small contractors

Links and Resources:
- Elevate –www.elevatenp.org
- Clean Energy Workforce Development –www.elevatenp.org/workforce

In this episode of "Gathering Ground," host Mary Morten sits down with two influential figures in the arts: Esther Grimm, Executive Advisor and former Executive Director of 3Arts, and Avery R. Young, Chicago’s Poet Laureate. Together, they discuss the power of mentorship, the evolving role of social media in the arts, and the lasting impact of creative expression in shaping our world.

Esther reflects on her two decades at 3Arts, advocating for underrepresented artists and transitioning into a new phase of creative exploration. Avery shares his journey as a poet, educator, and mentor, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, artistic resilience, and community engagement.

Episode Highlights:

- Esther Grimm’s reflections on leading 3Arts and her transition into new creative pursuits
- Avery R. Young’s journey as a poet and mentor, and his commitment to community storytelling
- The evolving role of social media in promoting artists and connecting communities

Links and Resources:

- Learn more about 3Arts: www.3arts.org
- Follow Avery R. Young: www.averyryoung.com

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to “Gathering Ground” and leave us a review! Follow Morten Group, LLC on Instagram @mortengroup for more updates.

Visit ignitepromise.org to learn more about Ignite’s upcoming Ignite and Shine Gala on April 5th, which plays a crucial role in sustaining their vital work!

In this episode of “Gathering Ground,” host Mary Morten sits down with Stephanie Piccirilli, CEO of Ignite, a Chicago-based organization dedicated to supporting housing-insecure youth. They discuss Ignite’s holistic approach to youth services, the importance of unrestricted funding, and the organization's mission to empower young people toward independence.

Episode Highlights

- Stephanie Piccirilli’s journey from fine arts and hospitality to leading a transformative youth organization.
- Ignite’s approach to outreach, housing, and long-term youth support.
- The Ignite and Shine Gala on April 5th and how it helps fund life-changing resources.

In this episode of Gathering Ground, host Mary Morten is joined by two powerhouse journalists, Natalie Moore and Tracy Baim, to explore the shifting landscape of media, the critical role of local journalism, and how storytelling continues to shape public discourse.

Together, they discuss the urgency of supporting independent journalism, the power of community-driven storytelling, and how media can evolve in the face of growing misinformation and disinvestment.

Episode Highlights:
- Tracy’s journey in LGBTQ journalism, from co-founding Windy City Times to leading Press Forward Chicago.
- Natalie’s work challenging racial bias in media and her approach to storytelling beyond traditional journalism.
- The increasing role of social media and media literacy in combating misinformation.

Links and Resources:
- Press Forward Chicago – www.cct.org/press-forward
- Natalie Moore’s Work – www.natalieymoore.com
- Windy City Times – www.windycitytimes.com

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Gathering Ground and leave us a review! Follow Morten Group, LLC on Instagram @mortengroup for more updates.

In this special bonus episode of "Gathering Ground," we take a look back at some of our favorite conversations from 2024. Join us as we revisit the stories that moved us, the insights that challenged us, and the ideas that inspired us.

Visit the "Gathering Ground" show page: gatheringgroundpodcast.com.

In this special year-end episode of "Gathering Ground," host Mary Morten is joined by longtime friends of the podcast Angelique Power and Tracie Hall for the fifth annual Fireside Chat.

Together, they reflect on the challenges, resilience, and triumphs of Black women in leadership, sharing insights into their lived experiences navigating systemic inequities, fostering self-care, and building community in their work.

Episode Highlights
- Tracie Hall’s reflections on taking a sabbatical for rest and recovery, the importance of self-care, and navigating personal loss.
- Angelique Power’s deep engagement with Detroit’s history and community during her time at the Skillman Foundation and lessons in fostering trust and creating lasting change.
- The systemic barriers Black women face in leadership roles, including the unrealistic expectations placed on "George Floyd hires."