Freedom to Rise
Podcast
From school superintendents to elected officials and business leaders, learn more about the people making a difference in the community with this informative and engaging podcast that highlights United Way Suncoast’s lasting impact.
In this episode of the Freedom to Rise Podcast, Bronwyn discusses key disaster recovery questions with Brady Penn, a FEMA External Affairs Officer working clsesly with the relief efforts from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. With over $1.8 billion in housing and public assistance granted to Florida communities hit by the recent storms, FEMA is offering critical support; but the application process can feel daunting.
Brady shares expert insights on starting applications, handling denials, and accessing resources for those who need it most; even if you make a mistake. Whether you're navigating recovery yourself or supporting others, tune in for essential information and guidance.
For more information on how you can apply for assistance, visit our website: https://unitedwaysuncoast.org/disaster-resilience/
Host Bronwyn Beightol, United Way Suncoast’s Chief Impact Officer, takes listeners into a deeper dive about the work of our organization and the pertinent issues revolving around our mission, from early learning to affordable housing to disaster recovery. The podcast continues to attract legislative leaders, statewide policy makers, local elected officials and key business leaders. Everyone wants an opportunity to sit with Bronwyn and share their thoughts on how we can amplify the work of United Way Suncoast and enhance the community. The podcast is available on all platforms including Apple, Spotify, iHeart and Stitcher.
Your Host
Bronwyn Beightol
As United Way Suncoast’s Chief Impact Officer, Bronwyn Beightol provides vision, strategy and oversight for the organization’s community impact work. Yet she also adds thoughtful leadership to United Way Suncoast’s programmatic success in its five-county footprint, the single largest population service area among Florida’s local United Ways. She guides her team with an emphasis on process and systemic change, but for Bronwyn, dignity, equity and access matter as much as intelligent efforts. People take precedence over percentages. She eschews “us helping them” attitudes for true partnership approaches that allow every community member to create the life they imagine for themselves. A mother of two favorites and proud Grammie to three, Bronwyn has spent more than two decades in the social impact sector leading innovative, community-level change initiatives to advance the common good. She ends each podcast with “Bronwyn’s Big Takeaway,” a closing commentary.