What does it take to turn personal adversity into lifelong advocacy and meaningful change?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Michael J. Langley, executive director of the Florida Justice Institute, to explore the power of resilience, grit, and community-focused leadership. Michael shares how growing up in a challenging environment shaped his lifelong commitment to supporting marginalized communities and closing opportunity gaps.

Through stories from his upbringing in rural Virginia, his civic engagement with the NAACP, and interactions with civil rights leaders like the late Muhammad Ali and Dr. King’s family, Michael illustrates the lessons that guide his work today. He explains how small, persistent actions compound into real change, and why showing up authentically is critical when leading organizations that serve vulnerable populations.

In this episode, we cover:

Michael’s early experiences with adversity and the growth mindset lessons they inspired

How personal resilience translates to leadership and advocacy

The importance of seeing and giving a voice to marginalized individuals

How the Florida Justice Institute empowers communities through access to justice, housing, and resources for people with disabilities

Practical ways listeners can support systemic change through time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony

Strategies for maintaining hope and self-care while working with vulnerable populations

How setbacks and challenges strengthen grit and reinforce leadership principles

The role of public-private partnerships, faith leaders, and community engagement in social change

Upcoming opportunities to support Florida Justice Institute, including Miami Gives Day

Michael emphasizes that no action is too small—from volunteering, sharing connections, or donating, every contribution fuels transformative progress. His insights are a blueprint for anyone looking to make a tangible impact while cultivating empathy, resilience, and leadership in their own communities.

👉 Learn more about Michael J. Langley and the Florida Justice Institute:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelangleyfl/

https://fji.law/

How do you take a personal tragedy and turn it into a movement that supports families and accelerates pediatric cancer research?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Oscar Ortiz, co-founder of Sebastian Strong, to explore his journey from the devastating loss of his son to creating a nonprofit that fills critical gaps in childhood cancer care. Oscar shares the inspiration behind the foundation, the development of the innovative Navigator program, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit with a mission-driven, business-minded approach.

Oscar dives deep into how Sebastian Strong focuses on:

Accelerating pediatric cancer research

Providing comprehensive resources for families

Raising awareness of the critical gaps in treatment

Building sustainable, mission-driven nonprofit operations

Throughout the conversation, Oscar emphasizes the moral imperative of prioritizing children’s health over profit, the importance of authentic messaging, and the power of community support to create meaningful change.

In this episode, we cover:

The personal journey that led to founding Sebastian Strong

Gaps in pediatric cancer treatment and research funding

The moral obligation of healthcare systems for children

Lessons in building a nonprofit that functions like a business

How the Navigator program helps families navigate complex care

Strategies for raising awareness and increasing support

The importance of authentic, heartfelt communication

Practical ways listeners can get involved and make an impact

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in childhood cancer advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and making a real difference in the lives of families affected by pediatric cancer. Oscar’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of loss, purpose and action can create lasting change.

👉 Learn more about Oscar Ortiz and Sebastian Strong:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscarportiz/

https://sebastianstrong.org/

Discover how true workplace flexibility transforms productivity, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build a judgment-free work culture - one where employees are empowered to work in the ways that serve them best. From remote work freedoms to respecting personal commitments, this conversation breaks down the difference between saying you offer flexibility and actually creating an environment where people can thrive.

You'll hear why clear boundaries matter, how trust fuels better results, and why honoring individual needs—from kids’ events to caring for pets—creates a happier, more productive team. Whether you're a leader shaping company culture or a professional seeking a healthier work environment, this episode offers valuable insight into building a workplace that genuinely supports people.

Topics Covered:
✔ Real flexibility vs. performative flexibility
✔ Empowerment and autonomy at work
✔ Creating a judgment-free, trust-driven environment
✔ Remote work and results-focused productivity
✔ Work-life balance without guilt
✔ The power of strong boundaries
✔ Improving client satisfaction through empowered teams

If you care about better workplaces, modern culture, and happier teams, this conversation is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Christine on : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarney/