Finding Connection and Courage with Tiffaney Schippert Conner Artwork

Beyond The Blog

Beyond the Blog is an evolution of The Patterson Foundation’s storytelling approach focused on creating and sharing engaging content featuring the people, organizations, and communities strengthened through the Foundation’s work. This idea began and grew in 2022 with strategic oversight from MagnifyGood, guidance from Debra Jacobs, and content planning, coordination, and production by Kellie Alexander and Rachel Hettinger.

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Beyond The Blog

Finding Connection and Courage with Tiffaney Schippert Conner

September 18, 2025 • The Patterson Foundation

In this episode of Beyond the Blog: The New Civic Path series, we sit down with Tiffaney Schippert Conner, a former librarian, published writer, and owner of Sobriety Beach, to hear her inspiring reflections on participating in A New Civic Path book circle.

Tiffaney shares how these circles create safe spaces for connection and trust, where vulnerability turns into strength and small actions ripple into meaningful community change. From building friendships across differences to witnessing generosity in action, her story reminds us that every voice matters and one person can make a difference.

Discover why Tiffaney believes these circles are more than discussions—they are practices of belonging, listening, and courage that strengthen civic life.

Timestamps

00:57 - Finding About The New Civic Path Book Circles
2:41 - Benefits to Engaging in A Group Experience
4:46 - Creating Connections Beyond The Circle
6:16 - Bridging Communities in The Suncoast
7:22 - Identifying The Takeaways
9:04 - Restoring Hope & Positivity Again
11:09 - Making Your Community Better
11:49 - Reminders That We Are More Similar Than Apart
12:08 - Using Question of the Day to Break the Ice
14:38 - Why Should Others Do it

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