Episode Details

In this episode of the She Supply Chains Podcast, Batala McFarlane, Executive Director of Friends of the Children Twin Cities, joins hosts Katie and Courtney to share how a community can build a resilient "supply chain of care." Batala discusses her inspiring transition from a 25-year career in media—where she helmed her family’s historic newspaper—to leading a visionary, long-term mentoring nonprofit.

She breaks down the profound generational impact of committing to a 12-year professional mentorship for youth facing systemic barriers, highlighting why investing in people (from salaried mentors to strategic partners) is the ultimate foundation for community resilience. Beyond the logistics of nonprofit operations, Batala shares her deep passion for literacy and leadership development, emphasizing why creating space for rest, joy, and authenticity is vital to building healthier communities.

✨ Connect with Batala!

📱LinkedIn | Batala McFarlane

💻 Learn more on the topics discussed here: * Friends of the Children - Twin Cities Chapter & Impact Model

• Stanford Social Innovation Review - Building Lifelines: The Power of Long-Term Youth Mentorship

• Harvard Business Review - The Power of Rest: Why Leaders Need Space for Joy and Authenticity

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