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Food, Family, & Philanthropy

Food, Family, & Philanthropy

By: Michael Nathanson
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Hello and welcome to Food, Family, and Philanthropy, the podcast that combines my passions for real estate, family, food, sports, and most importantly, giving back to the community. I'm Michael Nathanson, and for nearly two decades, I've been working in the real estate business in beautiful South Florida.


Throughout my career, I have found that the most rewarding experiences are those that involve giving back to the community. And that's why I decided to create this podcast: to explore how we can all make a difference through the many aspects of our lives. Whether it's supporting local businesses, connecting with loved ones, or getting involved in philanthropic endeavors, I believe we all have the power to positively impact the world.


In each episode, I'll be joined by amazing guests – from restaurant owners to real estate professionals, to family members, friends, and mentors. We will discuss how we can use our passions and resources to create meaningful change in our communities. And, of course, we'll indulge in some delicious food along the way!


So, whether you're a foodie, a philanthropist, a sports fan, or just someone who wants to make a difference in the world, I invite you to join me on this exciting journey. Follow us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and let's explore the many ways we can positively impact the world through food, family, and philanthropy!

© 2026 Food, Family, & Philanthropy
Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Ep. 51 - Frank Ramos on Water Contamination and the Future of Clean Water
    Jun 22 2026

    Most of us never think twice about turning on the tap. But what if the water we rely on every day contains far more than we realize?

    Michael Nathanson sits down with Frank Ramos, Founder and CEO of Save the Water, to discuss the growing challenges surrounding water quality, contamination, and public awareness. Frank shares his remarkable journey from immigrating to the United States from Cuba to becoming a chemical engineer, environmental advocate, and founder of a nonprofit dedicated to identifying and removing harmful contaminants from water sources.

    The conversation explores the Everglades Clean Drinking Water Initiative, forever chemicals, endocrine disruptors, water testing, and the science behind protecting drinking water for future generations. Frank also reflects on family, a 60-year marriage, volunteerism, fishing, community involvement, and why clean water is one of the most important issues facing our world today.

    Whether you're concerned about environmental protection, public health, water quality, or simply want to learn how one person can make a lasting impact, this conversation offers an eye-opening look at a resource many of us take for granted.

    Contact Michael Nathanson:
    Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com
    Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

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    47 mins
  • Ep. 50 - Protecting Children and Strengthening Families with HomeSafe CEO Matthew Ladika and COO Amanda Stone
    May 25 2026

    When thousands of children and families in Palm Beach County hit a crisis, HomeSafe is often the first call. On this milestone 50th episode, host Michael Nathanson welcomes Matthew Ladika, CEO of HomeSafe, and Amanda Stone, LMHC, the organization's Chief Operations Officer, for a candid conversation about what it truly takes to protect children and rebuild lives in South Florida.

    Matthew walks through HomeSafe's full range of services: four specialized therapeutic group homes for youth with significant trauma histories across Boca Raton, Lake Worth, and West Palm Beach; their domestic violence program Safety Net; and Pond Place, an independent living facility near Palm Beach State College for young adults aging out of the foster care system. In one small but telling moment from the episode, Matthew describes a young man from their program who stopped by the office on the way to his own high school graduation, needing someone to help him tie his tie.

    Amanda brings the clinical lens, talking about her background as a licensed mental health counselor and how a trauma-informed, strength-based philosophy shapes every program HomeSafe runs. The conversation also covers their Healthy Beginnings birth-to-five program, which reaches nearly every new family born in Palm Beach County, and a new initiative to help childcare directors and teachers better support children with challenging behaviors before they face expulsion.

    The episode also explores a shared connection to the Y: Matthew spent six years at YMCA of the USA in Chicago before coming to Palm Beach County, while host Michael Nathanson currently serves as board chair of the YMCA of Boca Raton and hosts Shoot for a Change, his annual two-day basketball fundraiser benefiting the Y's financial assistance program. HomeSafe's signature Classic Rock and Roll Party returns January 30, 2027 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, featuring Billy Joel guitarist Mike DelGuidice. Volunteers are welcome for Safety Net groups on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. To learn more or connect with HomeSafe, visit helphomesafe.org or call 561-383-9800.

    Contact Michael Nathanson:
    Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com
    Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

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    48 mins
  • Ep. 49 - Why Laura Reiss Believes Kindness Starts With the Little Ones
    May 4 2026

    What happens when a barefoot hippie mom moves to a community that feels cold and decides to do something about it? That's exactly how Laura Reiss, founder of Kindness Matters 365, got started — not with a grand plan, but with a simple afterschool program and a deep belief that if you reach kids early, you change everything.

    Michael and Laura cover a lot of ground in this one. They talk about the humble beginnings of Kindness Matters 365 at a Boca Raton elementary school, how the program has grown to reach schools across the United States and into Cameroon, Africa, and why Laura remains laser-focused on children over adults. She shares how the curriculum has evolved to include nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and monthly themes — and why she's watched the school bully walk out of a program as a leader. Laura also opens up about being nearly a year and a half sober, navigating menopause, and what it took to rebuild her own capacity for kindness from the inside out.

    The conversation winds through food, music (she's a hardcore Deadhead), marriage, parenting three grown daughters, and Michael's upcoming milestone of sending his son off to the University of Florida. Underneath all of it is a shared belief that kindness is a choice, community is everything, and small acts really do ripple outward.

    If you want to get involved with Kindness Matters 365 — as a volunteer, ambassador, or donor — visit km365.org. Their next fundraising event is June 20th at Crazy Uncle Mike's in Boca Raton, 12 to 3 PM.

    Contact Michael Nathanson:
    Email: Michael@soldbythebros.com
    Website: https://soldbythebros.com/

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 14 mins
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