Phoenix Pod

Hosted by Phoenix Club of Nashville

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Dec 2025

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Official podcast of The Phoenix Club of Nashville. www.phoenixclubofnashville.org Music Credit: Chill Circles by Brent Hunter

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28 recent

December 30, 2025Episode 2843 min

#028 | The PCON Endowment

What if nonprofits didn’t have to scramble for funding every time a good opportunity appeared?In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Rohit Padmanabhan, CFA, founder of Lotus Asset Management, to unpack why the Phoenix Club created an endowment and how it fundamentally changes the way the organization supports nonprofits.Rohit shares the thinking behind moving beyond one-off fundraising, the challenges of building an endowment from the ground up, and the guardrails required to protect capital while still putting it to work. Together, they explore how permanence, predictability, and disciplined stewardship allow the Phoenix Club to fund grants faster, partner more effectively with nonprofits, and build long-term community impact that outlasts any single board or donor.🎧 Topics: nonprofit funding, endowments, long-term capital strategy, stewardship, governance, community philanthropy, and sustainable grantmaking.GUEST:Rohit Padmanabhan, CFAFounder, Lotus Asset ManagementPast President, Phoenix Club of NashvilleCONNECT WITH PHOENIX CLUB:Website: phoenixclubofnashville.orgLinkedIn: The Phoenix Club of Nashville

October 28, 2025Episode 2750 min

#027 | Riki Rattner | BeWell in School

What if every classroom taught kids how to breathe, regulate, and belong?In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Riki Rattner, founder of Be Well in School, a Nashville nonprofit redefining mental health and mindfulness in education.Riki shares her journey from growing up in a high-pressure academic environment to creating a program that helps students and teachers manage stress, build emotional resilience, and foster real connection. Together, they explore how Be Well is transforming school culture by cutting discipline issues, boosting learning outcomes, and reminding us that it’s okay to not be okay.🎧 Topics: education reform, student mental health, mindfulness, emotional regulation, trauma-informed teaching, and community impact.GUEST:Riki RattnerFounder, Be Well in SchoolLearn more or get involved: bewellinschool.orgCONNECT WITH PHOENIX CLUB:Website: phoenixclubofnashville.orgLinkedIn: The Phoenix Club of Nashville

May 30, 2025Episode 2641 min

#026 | Empowering Students Through Financial Literacy

In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Thomas Magevney, a former teacher and current program lead at Junior Achievement of Middle Tennessee. They unpack why hands-on financial education matters, how programs like JA BizTown and JA Finance Park bring real-world economics to life for students, and the power of exposing kids to career possibilities early on. From funny classroom moments to eye-opening lessons in budgeting, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about youth empowerment, education reform, or giving back through mentorship.KEY TOPICS COVERED:Why JA BizTown and JA Finance Park create lightbulb moments for studentsThe transition from teaching in schools to educating through nonprofit workHow socioeconomic background and geography affect student mindsets around moneyWhy middle school is the most critical—and underappreciated—stage for financial literacyThe surprising impact of volunteer stories and community representationChallenges JA faces and how to get involvedGUEST:Thomas MagevneyProgram Manager, Junior Achievement of Middle TennesseeLearn more or get involved: nashville.ja.orgCONNECT WITH PHOENIX CLUB:Website: phoenixclubofnashville.orgLinkedIn: Phoenix Club of Nashville

March 27, 2025Episode 2542 min

#025 | Sam High | 2025 President-Elect

In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Sam High, President-Elect of the Phoenix Club of Nashville, to talk about his journey from Birmingham to Nashville, with a surprising detour working on a ranch in Wyoming.Sam shares how he found his way into the Phoenix Club, why volunteering and venture philanthropy are at the core of his involvement, and what motivated him to take on the challenge of a three-year leadership role. They dive into the importance of service, the impact of stepping outside your bubble, and why giving back is key to becoming a better leader.This episode is packed with insights on leadership, community impact, and the future of the Phoenix Club—whether you’re a current member, a prospective member, or just someone who wants to get more involved in giving back, this one’s for you.The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to benefit underserved youth in Middle Tennessee while developing its members into community and business leaders.📍 Website: phoenixclubofnashville.org📍 LinkedInLearn more about Sam High:📍 LinkedIn: Sam High

February 28, 2025Episode 2343 min

#024 | Blake Hogan | Nashville Door Closer

In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Blake Hogan, a legacy member of the Phoenix Club of Nashville, Marine veteran, and former CEO of Bunker Labs. Now leading Nashville Door Closer, Blake is focused on growing a 50-year-old company while reconnecting with the city he’s called home for nearly a decade.Blake and Jovica dive into his transition from running a national nonprofit for veteran entrepreneurs to leading an established business in a hands-on industry. They explore the challenges of leadership—whether it’s building something from scratch or stepping into an organization with deep roots. Blake also reflects on the impact of fatherhood, how stepping away from Bunker Labs led to a hard reset, and the lessons he’s learned about balancing ambition with being present for his family.From career shifts to community building, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of showing up.The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to benefit underserved youth in Middle Tennessee while developing its members into community and business leaders.📍 Website: phoenixclubofnashville.org📍 Instagram: @phoenixclub_nashvilleLearn more about Blake Hogan:🌐 Nashville Door Closer📍 LinkedIn: Blake Hogan

January 15, 2025Episode 231 hr 2 min

#023 | Shaka Mitchell | American Federation for Children

In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Shaka Mitchell, a legacy member of the Phoenix Club of Nashville and a passionate advocate for education reform and civic growth. With deep ties to the community, Shaka has been at the forefront of conversations about how cities like Nashville can evolve while maintaining opportunities for all. Shaka and Jovica explore the transformation of Nashville—from its modest beginnings to its current status as a booming cultural and economic hub. They discuss the challenges that come with rapid growth, including rising housing costs and the impact on public education. Shaka shares his insights on how the education system can adapt to serve students better and foster opportunities for the next generation. The conversation also gets personal as Shaka reflects on the lessons learned from parenting, how raising kids has influenced his perspective on community and opportunity, and the importance of creating meaningful change for future generations. Whether you’re passionate about education, urban development, or the everyday joys and challenges of parenting, this episode is packed with thoughtful perspectives and practical insights. The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to benefit underserved youth in Middle Tennessee while developing its members into community and business leaders. ⁠Website: phoenixclubofnashville.org ⁠LinkedIn ⁠Instagram: @phoenixclub_nashville Learn more about Shaka Mitchell: ⁠Substack: shaka.substack.com ⁠LinkedIn: Shaka Mitchell

December 23, 2024Episode 2249 min

#022 | Max Rykov | Nashville International Center for Empowerment

In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Max Rykov from the Nashville International Center for Empowerment (NICE)—the largest refugee resettlement agency in Tennessee. NICE has been at the forefront of supporting refugees and immigrants, providing critical services like housing, employment assistance, youth programs, and pathways to citizenship. Max shares his personal story as a refugee from Uzbekistan, his family’s journey to the U.S., and the challenges of adapting to a new life. He also dives into the impactful work NICE is doing, from resettling nearly 50,000 individuals to running programs that promote self-advocacy and trauma-informed care for refugee youth. The conversation highlights the struggles many refugees face, the resilience they show, and the vital role of community in creating a sense of belonging. Jovica and Max discuss the importance of mentorship, shared cultural connections, and what it means to truly support the next generation. They also reflect on the shared experiences of growing up as children of refugees and the sacrifices their families made to provide better futures. Whether you’re interested in immigrant stories, community impact, or how to get involved in supporting refugees in your own area, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and actionable takeaways. The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to benefit underserved youth in Middle Tennessee while developing its members into community and business leaders. ⁠Website: phoenixclubofnashville.org ⁠LinkedIn: Phoenix Club of Nashville ⁠Instagram: @phoenixclub_nashville Learn more about NICE: empowernashville.org Instagram: @nicenashville

November 29, 2024Episode 2152 min

#021 | Garrison Snell | Snell Ventures

In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic sits down with Garrison Snell— founder of Snell Ventures, a values-driven holding company focused on acquiring and preserving family-owned businesses while making meaningful community impacts. They discuss Garrison’s fascinating journey, from selling his first business at 24 to finding a deeper purpose in building businesses that prioritize people and values over profits. Garrison opens up about the lessons he’s learned in leadership, the challenges of maintaining mission-driven operations, and the importance of supporting employees and their families through thoughtful programs. The conversation dives into work-life balance, how Garrison has grown as a leader, and his insights on being present for his family while pursuing big ambitions. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business leader, or someone striving for impact in your own life, this episode is full of lessons on purpose, leadership, and growth. The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization of young men with a dual mission to benefit under-served youth in Middle Tennessee and to develop our members into leaders in their community and in business. Members of the Phoenix Club are actively looking for ways to make a positive and permanent impact on the lives of under-served youth and their community. ⁠https://phoenixclubofnashville.org ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-phoenix-club-of-nashville IG: @phoenixclub_nashville

October 3, 2024Episode 2046 min

#020 | Brandon P. Haskins, Sr., Ed.D | Transformative Learning Advocate

In this episode of the Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic talks with Dr. Brandon Haskins—an educator with over a decade of experience in leadership, program development, strategic planning, counseling, consulting, and student development. Dr. Haskins has expertise in curriculum design and implementation, enhancing academic performance, and promoting diversity in educational environments. They discuss pressing challenges in education, including how traditional schooling falls short of preparing students for real life. Dr. Haskins shares his personal journey from Louisville, Kentucky, highlighting educational disparities and the importance of focusing on the whole child rather than just academics. He offers innovative strategies for improving education, emphasizing key communication and leadership skills. They explore parental involvement, holistic learning approaches, and practical solutions to empower educators and students. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply interested in education, this episode offers insights into bridging education with real-life application. The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization of young men with a dual mission to benefit under-served youth in Middle Tennessee and to develop our members into leaders in their community and in business. Members of the Phoenix Club are actively looking for ways to make a positive and permanent impact on the lives of under-served youth and their community. ⁠https://phoenixclubofnashville.org⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-phoenix-club-of-nashville⁠/⁠ IG: @phoenixclub_nashville

June 28, 202453 min

#019 | Entrepreneurial Wisdom: From Vision to Reality

In this episode of The Phoenix Pod, host Jovica Djurdjevic talks with John Boots, founder of Expedition Group and legacy member of the Phoenix Club; Greg Skloot, President-Elect and managing partner at Bridge Crest Partners; and Rohit Padmanabhan, president of Phoenix Club and founder of Lotus Asset Management. John, Greg, and Rohit discuss their unique entrepreneurial journeys, sharing the motivations that led them to start their businesses and the challenges they've faced along the way. They delve into their specific industries, from real estate development and tech startups to wealth management, highlighting the diverse paths one can take in entrepreneurship. Learn about the importance of self-belief, passion, and adaptability in building a successful business. The panelists also share their insights on managing financial risks, maintaining focus, and the significance of understanding one's goals. The conversation provides a wealth of wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs and offers a realistic look at the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial journey. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired by these leaders who are making a difference in their respective fields. The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization of young men with a dual mission to benefit under-served youth in Middle Tennessee and to develop our members into leaders in their community and in business. Members of the Phoenix Club are actively looking for ways to make a positive and permanent impact on the lives of under-served youth and their community. ⁠https://phoenixclubofnashville.org⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-phoenix-club-of-nashville/⁠ IG: @phoenixclub_nashville