{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Nonprofit Entrepreneurship, Promoting Literacy and Transforming Grief into Inspiration with Brian Floriani, Founder and Chief Advancement Officer of Bernie\u2019s Book Bank","description":"Throughout life, we all have foundational experiences that shape who we are. Sometimes, those experiences can even change our career trajectories or instill a deeper sense of purpose within us.   For Brian Floriani, the death of his father was such an experience. It was not only an emotional turning point, but it also gave him the inspiration and courage to change careers. As a result, Brian founded Bernie\u2019s Book Bank, a nonprofit that sources, processes and distributes free children\u2019s books to under-resourced children. Originally having served the greater Chicago area, but now going beyond.   In this episode of The Chief\u2019s Table, Kim and Brian discuss how grief can be manifested in positive ways, as well as the importance of increasing book ownership and literacy in America.   They also discuss Brian\u2019s new venture to support literacy, Freadom Promotions, a for profit company which dedicates 100% of it\u2019s profits back to bold literacy initiatives throughout America, Bernie\u2019s Book Bank included.  Freadom Promotions takes its cues from the \u201cconsumerism as activism\u201d trend made popular by brands such as TOMS, Bombas, Newman\u2019s Own Dressing and others.    While factors such as the rise of corporate social responsibility will likely continue to play a vital role in the future of Bernie\u2019s Book Bank and Freadom Promotions, Brian also highlights the importance of living a purpose-driven life. Through his work, Brian says he hopes to help others find their purpose as well.   About Brian Floriani   Prior to founding Bernie\u2019s Book Bank, Brian was a lead instructor for Golf Digest Schools in Lake Tahoe and West Palm Beach. After leaving his job in the golf industry, Brian began working with struggling readers. He then started to envision a business that would distribute children\u2019s books to under-served families. He first collected children\u2019s books in his garage and distributed them in age-appropriate bags to local children. Since then, Bernie\u2019s Book Bank has distributed over 23 million books to children and families in Chicago. The nonprofit aims to increase book ownership and improve literacy among those it serves. Brian served as executive director of Bernie\u2019s Book Bank until 2018 when he transitioned into the role of chief advancement officer. In his current role he supports Bernie\u2019s Book Bank by cultivating strategic relationships with partners across various industries.   About Kim Stapleton Kim Stapleton is the host of The Chief\u2019s Table and a sales manager in Ice Miller's Chicago office, where she matches attorney skillsets with the needs of existing and prospective clients. Prior to transitioning into her role in client services, Kim was a firm consultant for five years. In that role, she helped attorneys develop their networks and expand their business development capabilities. Kim has previously worked with several other law and accounting firms to identify key targets, perform business intelligence and prioritize business development.   Learn more at www.icemiller.com ","author_name":"The Chief's Table, An Ice Miller Podcast","author_url":"https:\/\/sites.libsyn.com\/415016","html":"