The Discovery Pod (Douglas Nelson)

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted almost every single aspect of our lives, and everything has to be put on hold as we struggle to survive the crisis. Burnaby Hospital Foundation had just launched the largest campaign in their history, raising $30 million for redevelopment, when the pandemic struck and forced them to shift focus. Kristy James was right there at the forefront of the pivot as the foundation’s CEO. With its dedicated team, magnanimous board, and generous donors, the hospital was able to launch an unprecedented emergency response that showcased the power of a cohesive community. Kristy tells the story of how they managed to do this as she joins Douglas Nelson in this episode.

Founded at a time when social media was limited to Friendster and MySpace, Stupid Cancer soon grew to become the largest cancer support community for young adults in the world. Diagnosed with cancer when he was 21, Matthew Zachary did not set out to start an organization, but to spearhead a movement, an edgy, disruptive brand that has never existed before in the world of cancer. As you will soon find out, Stupid Cancer is the best name there could ever be for this platform without having to cuss. But boy was he, in his own account, the most unqualified person for the job! Joining Douglas Nelson on the podcast, he shares how he eventually learned the ropes of running a nonprofit, the things that he learned along the way, and the future directions the organization is going.

Many organizations are confounded with the problem of having their boards support them. Judy Savage, the CEO of Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, has successfully veered from that by building credibility through campaigns and letting the boards actively engage. The meteoric rise of Judy’s foundation over the last number of years shows this, and she lets us in on how they have nurtured the relationships from campaigns with the donors and boards. Moving us into what happens behind the scenes, Judy shares the structure of their high-level discussions and how they get the very best out of the boards.

Education isn't just about acquiring knowledge; it's also about building bridges between classrooms and boardrooms, between theory and practice, and between students and the careers. In this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, Brian Bowman, AVP, Advancement, of SAIT, shares the future of the organization and the pivotal role that industry engagement will play. SAIT, a renowned polytechnic institute in Canada with a 100-year history of excellence, is seeking a passionate leader as its first-ever Director of Industry Engagement. This is your chance to build a career by creating something entirely new. Be a part of shaping the future of education and industry collaboration. Tune in to learn more!

Nothing beats a comeback more than becoming a CEO of an organization you used to work in. That is exactly what Jonny Morris’ story looks like. Having worked at the Canadian Mental Health Association for a number of years, Jonny left to work at the provincial government and came back as the CEO. He narrates his fascinating story of rising to the top while maintaining a heart that is passionate for service and advocacy. Sharing the challenges he needed to overcome, Jonny lets us in on how he positioned himself as the new leader along with some pieces of advice on in-service leadership mentality and organizational assessment. He also talks about the complexities that come with being a leader and how the organization is raising consciousness on mental and public health issues.

In the social profit sector, there can be an aversion to the word “profit.” But this week’s guest on The Discovery Pod believes profit is a critical component in addressing societal issues that should not be ignored.

Virginia Wilson, CEO of Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong, shares how aligning profit with purpose is a better route for making systemic change. In this episode, she joins host Douglas Nelson to enlighten us more about the meaning of shared value, how it differs from corporate social responsibility, and why it is the way to go. Tune in to this conversation to learn fresh insights on leadership in the social profit sector.

The less we understand what philanthropy is all about, the less our ability to have the impact that we want. Guest Phil Buchanan, the President of The Center for Effective Philanthropy, greatly advocates for the importance of philanthropy and the nonprofit sector and helps foundations and individual donors to maximize their impact. Today on The Discovery Pod, Phil dives deep into the link between thoughtful leadership and effective philanthropy, giving advice to leaders who are being pulled into starting their own organization. He lays down the difference between social profit and philanthropy and shares his perspectives on the “right” indicators of performance, the importance of “getting proximate” to the people within and without the organization, and the challenge of creating an organizational culture and processes to identify and pursue the best ideas.

There are a lot of means to develop a community, but it is incomparable to build one through the power of food. David Long, the CEO of the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, walks us through how he became the leader of a donor-centric organization. As he recounts the compassionate people who helped through donations and other assistance, he shares what the perception of the food bank is and how he sees it in the upcoming years. On top of that, learn how David’s leadership has changed from Terminal City Club to where he is now, and find out how he defines leadership and how to keep board members engaged.

The awareness of philanthropy has changed over the past couple of years. There is a much greater general awareness and a higher level of sophistication now in the wealth environment with the available resources and the understanding that people have about being philanthropic. Philanthropic advisor Malcolm Burrows from Scotia Wealth Management says more and more people are showing up and saying, “I want to do that.” Malcolm is also the Founder of Aqueduct Foundation In today’s show, he takes a deep dive into donor-advised funds and the changes in philanthropy. He also talks about the fundamental shifts in the way people could support charities, and sheds light on the conversations that people on the charity side are wanting to have with donors over their lifetime.

Not all social profit organizations have massive attention. Some are focused on the youth while others are dedicated to environmental issues. United Way of the Lower Mainland is an organization who is not only focused on one but three areas – the youth, the unfortunate, and the senior citizens. Michael McKnight, CEO of United Way of the Lower Mainland, shares how he faced the biggest challenge of changing the value proposition that people have with their organization from a workplace fundraiser to one that creates value in their community. Discover how they managed to remake the business model of the United Way and the feedback they got on their brand new marketing campaign.

Raising money, for whatever purpose, is an inspirational act anyone can and should be proud of. Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation CEO Jeff Norris has dedicated his life to enhancing hospital care and improving its fundraising strategies. Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation is a provincial and regional independent charitable foundation that raises millions of dollars annually to help fund priority healthcare needs. In this episode, Jeff sits with Douglas Nelson to share his mission as a leader in the health philanthropy sector. Listen in as Jeff takes us on a little walk through his career journey towards thriving in the social-profit sector.

As one of the largest serving agencies in Metro Vancouver, YWCA Metro Vancouver provides a wide range of services to help address the economic, social and physical challenges facing women. Erin Seeley, CEO joins host Douglas Nelson to share how the YWCA Metro Vancouver continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the region. With over 200 employees and 75 programs, Erin leads a large, diverse organization committed to achieving gender equality. Listen as she shares about her career journey, the lessons she has learnt along the way and her transition into role of CEO. 

Working in any mental health organization in itself is technically challenging and keeps any worker emotionally invested where focusing on the mission can be more challenging. Darrell Burnham, the CEO of a community-based mental health organization called Coast Mental Health, talks about how he manages to stay connected with the mission while working with the staff and board. He shares that he’s been able to accomplish these goals by always coming back to the organization’s mission. For anyone vying to be a CEO, Darrell suggests understanding the full context of the work by taking time to do so. This includes meeting everyone involved in the organization, particularly the staff, family members, and people being served.

Bringing cultures together is one of the challenges a newly appointed leader experiences. Andrea Seale, the new CEO of the Canadian Cancer Society, is the right person to walk us through such encounters after being appointed as an Executive Director and then permanent CEO of CCS. As a top leader, being able to approach anyone and any issues is quintessential. Sharing how she handles the management team as well as organization issues at work, Andrea discusses her approaches in working with the board and her ways of handling varied problems. Learn more about this woman’s dynamic role and how she is helping millions through her leadership.

Leadership guidance is a fundamental key to effective board engagement. Douglas Nelson talks with Margaret McNeil about creating alignment in an organization. Clearly, during the pandemic, there were uncontrollable impacts on the management for board engagements. Margaret shares about significant guidelines and crafting the right solutions to develop great collaboration among a company’s members. Join Douglas Nelson and Margaret McNeil in this episode and enrich your mind with board engagement’s elements and benefits.

Dr. Anson Wong is the Campaign Director at The Discovery Group. He joins this episode to discuss exceptional Asian fundraising strategies influenced by his lifetime of experience. Joining Douglas Nelson, Dr. Wong shares insights guided by positive impact and social change on building an effective Asian fundraising program in your organization. He also delicately dives into the art and science of engaging donors with respect and finesse. If you are thinking of raising money in Asia or working with Asian donors, you don’t want to miss this insightful episode with Dr. Wong. Tune in now!

All of us are capable of doing extraordinary things that help and uplift other people. Bringing this to healthcare and philanthropy, Karen Jeu – President of California Pacific Medical Center Foundation – takes us into the final stages of a really important campaign which aims to open two brand new hospitals within the whole Bay Area. Karen talks about the importance of the conversation on philanthropy and bringing that to the community. Going deeper within herself as well, Karen shares how the mission of the organization she has worked with has helped her develop as a fundraiser and a leader. Karen touches on the role of the rest of her team, sharing how she is doing well at building teams and mentoring them from the start to the last phase of the campaign.

Douglas Nelson sits down with Christoph Clodius, Vice President of The Discovery Group, to explore the essentials of board recruitment. Together, they delve into how organizations can bring new perspectives to their boards, discussing everything from selecting candidates who reflect the community’s diversity to creating value-added boards that drive impact. Christoph shares practical insights on modern recruitment practices, explaining why boards should be intentional and proactive in their approach. Whether you are a part of a nonprofit or looking to strengthen your organization’s leadership, this episode offers valuable advice on building a committed and dynamic board.

What happens when you center youth voices in the climate movement? In this episode, Cory Witter, Executive Director of Youth Climate Lab, shares how the organization empowers young leaders to drive systemic change. Cory breaks down the principles of radical collaboration — from fostering creativity to intentionally disrupting the status quo — and explains how Youth Climate Lab partners with over 100 organizations to create space for youth to influence policy and lead innovative projects. They also discuss the importance of radical rest to prevent burnout and sustain long-term impact in such emotionally charged work. Whether you’re in advocacy or just passionate about change, this conversation is a powerful reminder of how youth energy, paired with thoughtful strategy, can transform the future.

Empowering young people is the key to a promising future in the world. That is why encouraging them to take charge of their lives should be everyone’s focus. CEO of Asante Africa Foundation, Erna Grasz built a non-profit organization that is intimately-focused on the academic education of young people in East Africa with the purpose to help them develop the skills that will launch them into a career they love and enjoy. In fulfilling this mission, Erna shares her remarkable transition from being a high-powered corporate executive to becoming the CEO of a non-profit organization. Learn how she managed the complexity in managing boards in three countries and how she built that commitment in the communities that they are working on.

"As a fundraiser at a university, there's everything…It provides this incredible opportunity to be a matchmaker between the needs of an institution and the philanthropic aspirations and goals of donors." - Erin Morantz.

Erin Morantz, Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Engagement of Simon Fraser University, shares what it's like to build a coalition of collaboration and philanthropy for a significant comprehensive campaign. She highlights the value of the connection between leaders and those outside the organization to share experiences and gain advice. If you are interested in knowing what it takes to lift a large campaign and build an exceptional team, then don't miss this opportunity. Tune in to find Erin's expertise in fundraising and team-building in this episode! 

You can’t eliminate risks because some of them can help you reach your objectives, but you can minimize them. Douglas Nelson’s guest in this episode is Francis Liska, the CEO of OTUS Group. Francis discusses with Douglas about creating a risk-aware culture, where an organization can recognize the risk before it threatens, mitigate a risk when it arises, and recover from damages from risks that might happen. Being aware of risks is never a one man’s job. Everyone in the organization needs to understand risk management and why it’s important for everyone. Tune in to learn more about risk management in the social profit sector! 

Losing a loved one can be tragic and traumatic. It takes a lot of courage and determination to bounce back from the grief that it takes along. Patrick Sullivan, Founder and President of Team Finn Foundation, shares how losing his son to cancer changed his life. A lawyer by profession, Patrick walks us through his transition from leading a journey to conquer cancer and making scientists more aware and motivated to improve their expertise in Oncology to playing significant roles in numerous boards of organizations with the same purpose. Learn the number one mistake he sees CEOs and executive directors are making and the problem with starting a new organization.

The social profit sector is the backbone of Canadian society. As its champion, Imagine Canada is committed to helping its leaders navigate the challenges and changes they face. In this episode, Bruce MacDonald, CEO of Imagine Canada, joins host Douglas Nelson as he delves into the state of the social profit sector in Canada. With years of experience, Bruce discusses the challenges facing leaders and shares his unique perspective of the sector. He offers advice on how to navigate these challenges and emphasizes the importance of adapting to the changing landscape. Bruce emphasizes that the end goal is finding innovative solutions that strengthen the sector while continuing to make positive impacts communities. Listen to learn more about the social profit sector's current situation and how its leaders can guarantee that their organizations prosper in the future.

Explore various social media strategies with Douglas Nelson in this masterclass episode with Tom Plasteras and Jamie Harrison, seasoned media veterans and the founders of Verito Communications & Media Strategies. Tune in as they explore the most common pitfalls organizations face when marketing themselves and discover effective approaches to conveying your message to your target audience. Tom and Jamie also emphasize the importance of storytelling, targeted messaging, and a holistic approach that touches both traditional and digital media. Master these efficient tools to transform your media strategies and amplify your organization’s impact.

Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare philanthropy, visionary leadership serves as the compass towards a brighter and healthier future for all. Kelly Cole, President and CEO of Sunnybrook Foundation, joins Douglas Nelson, host, to share insights into her journey from post-secondary to healthcare. Together, they dive into Sunnybrook Foundation's strategic growth plan and fundraising, emphasizing the importance of aligning values and fostering collaboration within the team. Kelly also discusses the unique challenges of healthcare philanthropy, including the need for sustainable operations and diversified revenue streams. Tune in now for a glimpse into the dynamic world of fundraising for a leading healthcare institution, appreciating the dedication to excellence, meaningful collaboration, and the impactful journey toward advancing healthcare innovation.

On this episode Mike Peters, the CEO of the International Paralympic Committee, joins host Douglas Nelson from Germany to explain the role that his organization plays in the world of sports and inclusion. Mike’s unique experience of being a former athlete and as a highly educated executive, has provided him with the leadership tools to create an exceptional organization. He shares his perspective on the future of the disability movement, his approach to diversity and how to align your team with the greater vision. Tune in to this episode to hear what great leadership looks like.

Attention all nature enthusiasts and conservation heroes! Join us for an exciting episode of Opportunity Spotlight featuring Allison Colina, the passionate VP of Development, Marketing, and Communications of the Pacific Salmon Foundation. Immerse yourself in the inspiring culture that drives Pacific Salmon Foundation's mission to protect and restore the wild Pacific salmon. Allison reveals their latest and most innovative campaign yet, outlining how you can become a vital part of the solution as Director of Development. Learn if the Pacific Salmon Foundation is your next career move.

You have to identify problems first before you plan your future-forward decisions. Join your host Douglas Nelson as he sits down with the Vice President of Corporate Development at Carbin Minerals Inc., Sean Lowrie. Sean is the Director and founding CEO of The Start Network, a global network of non-governmental organizations that tackle crises through innovation, funding, early action, and localization. Sean helped the international aid system adapt to a rapidly changing world after leaving that role in 2019. Listen to Sean as he shares his experience with Start Network and how they would work with partnerships to solve big universal issues. 

Like all forms of education, music education has been deeply affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the closure of physical campuses and the increased reliance on distance and online learning. How do music schools manage to do this? The Sarah McLachlan School of Music is such a success story in this regard, as Interim Executive Director, Jen Rose, relates in this interview with Douglas Nelson. Jen attributes their successful pivot to a culture of transparency, which pervades every aspect of the organization. Using the tools and resources that they have at their disposal, Jen and her team did not let the pandemic stop their passion for bringing music to the young people in their community.

Building a strong and inclusive community requires expanding our services to support all newcomers and to meet the evolving needs of those we serve, overcoming challenges with resilience. In this episode, we have Michael Itti, Executive Director of the Chinese Information and Service Center (CISC Seattle) in Seattle, Washington join us for a discussion on the evolution of social profits and adapting to changing environments. Michael shares how CISC Seattle has expanded its services to support all new immigrants, and the challenges they've faced during the current pandemic. He also discusses how he's brought together a coalition of organizations and the board to meet the needs of their community. Michael generously shares valuable insights and advice for anyone building organizations that serve their community. Tune in now and learn from Michael's experience and leadership in the social profit sector.

Constructing a new public gallery covers considerable funding and solid credibility of the people involved in the development. Joining Douglas Nelson in this episode is the Curator and Director of The Polygon Gallery, Reid Shier. Shier explains what The Polygon Gallery is all about and the purpose of the facility. He also talks about its history and the journey in planning the new gallery in North Vancouver. In this conversation, understand the value of credibility, reputation, and establishing relationships in getting the support you need to further your organization’s goals.

With all the facts around us in this age of information, have you ever wondered why we're still not any better at changing the world in terms of climate change, social equity, and the likes? Maybe facts are just not enough to nudge us to do the right thing. Maybe we need a different way to process this information. Denise Withers, award-winning storyteller, filmmaker, author, and leadership coach, believes in the power of storytelling to create transformation. She talks about how stories enable us to experience something new and bring together emotion and intellect so we can rationalize and understand it. Offering advice, Denise then shares some tips on how organizations can tell these stories—from focusing on purpose rather than a problem to strengthening your narrative intelligence. Join in on this episode to gain some more insights on how you can share a bigger message to all and spark change for good.

More and more unfortunate patients are spending their final weeks, days, and minutes of life hidden away from the people they love, and sometimes they are in significant amounts of pain. Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider, a physician and a palliative care activist, believes that a new day of medicine is coming where the end of life is not a medical issue to be solved, but rather something that all human beings should be reflecting on personally and talking about in their own lives. Struck by the number of older, more frail adults ending up in the ICU where the most aggressive, invasive care gets provided, Shoshana realized that her passion in life was making sure that her patients and their families’ end-of-life experience was in line with their goals and values. Today, Shoshana joins host Douglas Nelson in examining illness in the context of the whole picture of someone’s life and how physicians, nurses, and other providers of healthcare can come up with a plan of care that focuses on having them live their best day every day, no matter how many days they have left.

As Season 8 of the Discovery Pod draws to a close, join us for a reflective wrap-up with your host Douglas Nelson and special guest Alex Wilson, Director of Communications and Producer of the Discovery Pod. In this finale, we dive into the heart of the social profit sector, exploring the top challenges leaders face today and the strategic insights from our most inspiring guests. From staff retention to the critical role of board engagement, we cover it all. Get ready for a deep dive into the lessons learned and what leaders should prioritize as they prepare for a dynamic fall. Tune in and let's take stock of our sector's pulse together.

To earn the award AFP Outstanding Corporation, one must demonstrate an outstanding commitment to supporting the community financially and through encouragement and motivation of others to take leadership roles toward philanthropy and community involvement. In today’s episode, Lawrence Eade, the President of Purdy’s Chocolatier, shares many of his insights about the connection between community and building community and being an effective organizational leader. He also shares why giving back to the community is good for business. Adding value to your community also gives value to your organization. So, if you are a leader, you may want to listen to his insights and get a sense of how Purdy’s Chocolatier approaches giving back to the community.

Plastic waste is undeniably one of the greatest problems we are facing today. Despite this, efforts at mitigating this problem are uneven across the globe, especially when you factor in poverty levels. This dual problem of addressing plastic pollution and poverty makes the task even more crucial. This is where the Plastic Bank Foundation comes in. With its dual mission, they aim to address poverty to create a cleaner ocean. Daniel Rotman, Executive Director, joins Douglas Nelson in this episode to shine a light on these issues and how he is leading the organization to realize its mission. From working with communities to engaging with granting partners, Daniel shows us what it takes to build an organization into a global force for positive change. Tune in and discover the journey of leading a global fight for a better world.

Foundry is revolutionizing mental health treatment for young people by taking a holistic approach. In this episode, we have Dr. Steve Mathias, Executive Director, discuss the pioneering work of Foundry, a groundbreaking initiative in British Columbia that is leading the way of how young people receive mental health care. Dr. Steve Mathias speaks with Douglas Nelson, host, about the origins of the organization and his personal journey in the sector. He also shares his sources of guidance—trustworthy colleagues and a network extending beyond the medical community. Tune in now and learn how Foundry is changing lives.

The UHN Foundation is a global leader in healthcare innovation, and a critical part of that capability is the support given by philanthropic donors. Stepping into her new role as CEO, Julie Quenneville makes sure that donors and prospects understand the measurable impact they’re making with their generous gifts. In this conversation, she shares how she prepares for donor conversations and how she leads her team to stay aware and ready so they can create maximum impact. Tune in for more!

Founders are those people who saw a need and filled it. Someone who has done that in the area of brain health is the Founder of Watson Centre for Brain Health, Mark Watson. Many of us may have been planning to create and start something – be that a business, a cause, a company, or others. Giving us a look of that, Mark talks about what it means to form an organization and everything that’s involved in it. Mark shares his own journey from being introduced to people with brain injury to taking that first big step of starting his own brain center, outlining the transition from being the day-to-day leader of the organization to having an active management role on the board.

“Mothers are the first teachers” - they are the initial figures in a child’s life who nurture and prepare them for the world. In this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, Christoph Clodius is joined by Bruce Flexman and Julia Kim Chair and Vice Chair, respectively, of Mothers Matter Centre. Together, they share the important work being done across Canada in support of vulnerable mothers. They also discuss the exciting opportunity to lead the organization as they search for a CEO. Listen to this conversation and discover if this CEO opportunity could be your next role!

In this world full of trials, shining light and supporting others who are facing huge ordeals is a great thing we could do. After all, the world is much bigger than us, so we must contribute and give back to the world. In this episode, Chantelle Krish, a passionate and experienced community leader, talks about her work in bringing people together to reach out and serve the community. Chantelle is the Executive Director of Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland, a non-profit organization providing volunteer mentors to Lower Mainland girls needing a positive role model. Big Sisters is on the cusp of some significant changes. Tune in to this inspiring episode to find out what more needs to be done in the social profit sector and what Big Sisters is looking forward to.

Kevin Keohane, the CEO of Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Foundation, talks about CHEO Foundation’s mandate and how they strive to serve the community and help CHEO deliver the care that children need. Kevin shares the fundraising strategies and activities that keep the Foundation moving forward, and discusses the importance of building a diverse foundation around the community it serves. Learn how Kevin approaches leadership, and why he believes that aligned leadership and being on “the trailing edge” is critical to the Foundation’s success.

A registered non-profit based in Victoria, Power To Be creates nature-based activities for vulnerable populations, focusing on children, youth, and families living with cognitive, physical, financial, and social barriers. Joining Douglas Nelson on the show today is Tim Cormode, the CEO of Power To Be. Tim has been involved in youth work and the non-profit sector for nearly 30 years. He shares the story of how their charity began and grew into a community. He also talks about their programs and how they’re created to use nature as a vehicle to see what's possible and to inspire others to think beyond their barriers and be great citizens in the community.

On today's episode Douglas Nelson, host, speaks with Lisa Hoglund, Executive Director, Delta Hospital & Community Health Foundation, about her organization's innovative approach to improving healthcare. The conversation highlights the importance of building a strong board, fostering a supportive team environment and partnering with community members. Lisa Hoglund shares inspiring stories of leadership and philanthropy, along with practical insights in how to create deep meaningful relationships with donors.

Music is becoming an antidote to COVID-19 and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra takes the challenge of keeping its traditions in a radically changing world. When the pandemic hit us in early 2020, organizations all around the world have been evaluating their mission and aligning it with changed circumstances. Nowhere is this more obvious than in the performing arts, as the pandemic took away the very basis of their existence – their audience. Having been thrust into leadership just when the world began to shift, VSO President and CEO Angela Elster led the orchestra in steadfastly committing to their mission of creating, curating, and connecting irresistible musical experiences for their audiences in whatever form. Thus was born TheConcertHall.ca, the VSO’s new virtual home for a virtual season. Listen in as Douglas Nelson quizzes Angela about the genesis of this virtual solution as well as her other brilliant initiatives inside the organization.

Taking the philanthropic road can be challenging, especially when finding the resources to support your mission. One of those is the power imbalance between a funder and the charitable sector. Our guest in this episode found a way around it through trust-based philanthropy. Susan Byrom, the Executive Director of First West Foundation, joins Douglas Nelson to share how they are embracing that at First West. She shares the unique challenges of working with a credit union along with removing the barriers between funders and charities. Susan then talks about how they are creating a safe space for partners to have open and candid conversations, particularly around the accelerator program versus the granting program. Are you ready to explore a potential partnership with trust-based philanthropy? Don't miss out on this conversation as Susan tells us more!

STARS Air Ambulance has been saving and changing many lives. Not only by way of responding to medical emergencies but also through Philanthropy, inspiring others to help as well. The CEO behind this great organization, Andrea Robertson, is here in this episode to talk with Douglas Nelson about the origin story of STARS and how it maintains its enviable model and loyalty from corporate partners within the sector. She takes us across the art of fundraising, working with the board, and staying within your niche. What is more, Andrea then reveals some of the secret sauce that put their organization up with success.

What changes can you implement in your organization so you can make a difference? Listen as your host Douglas Nelson sits down for a conversation with Malcolm Berry on BC Children’s Hospital Foundation’s philanthropic success. Since March 2021, Malcolm Berry has led the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation as president and CEO, bringing with him a proven track record of philanthropy and leadership accomplishments in pediatric health care. In this episode, he stresses the importance of a purpose, vision, making an impact, and changing the community for the better. Tune in as he brings in powerful messages that could help you take your leadership to the next level through a practical approach designed for success.

Immigrating to another country is no easy feat—from the time you’ve decided to move to the moment you finally arrive. How do you settle down? How can you create new relationships? How can you start on the path towards the life you want? Olga Stachova, CEO of MOSAIC, helps people who are in this challenging journey. MOSAIC is one of Canada’s largest settlement organizations supporting newcomers as they’re building their new life in the country. Olga sits down with host, Douglas Nelson, to share with us the wonderful work they have been doing and how they are coping with the pandemic and moving forward. She taps into the many weaknesses of the society that have been revealed during this time, providing us great information about the many inequities faced by newcomers, especially when it comes to scarce job opportunities. She then shares with us how they have been keeping the team working together and reaching out to the board. Tune into this episode to learn more about the amazing work over at MOSAIC and gain wisdom on treading the rough waters brought on by the pandemic.

No one is insignificant in driving forward that sense of mission and purpose when you are part of a social profit organization. Barbara Grantham, CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, dives into the power of healthcare philanthropy as she instills the vision and mission of their organization. Accentuating their purpose to allow people to show a different side of them, Barbara shares how they built their hospital foundation organically and identified the points of leverage which contributed to their expansion. In this interview, explore the myth around healthcare philanthropy and how it is changing over time, and discover how ruthless execution with some room for opportunism can create a significant impact as an organization.

The Museum of Vancouver is Canada's largest civic museum that runs in partnership with the City of Vancouver. It stewards a collection of artifacts and belongings on behalf of the city to tell stories about Vancouver through material culture and digital content. Douglas Nelson's guest is Mauro Vescera, the CEO at the Museum of Vancouver. In this episode, Douglas and Mauro discuss handling tensions within the organization, partnering and collaborating with other organizations within the social profit sector, and the museum's response to the pandemic. Join in the conversation and discover how Mauro approaches the common challenges that social profits face within the context of art and storytelling. 

The establishment of Canada's first Chinese Canadian Museum showcases how cultural institutions can uphold and honour the diversity of our communities. It shows the importance of representation in shaping our shared history. In this episode, Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee shares the significance of the Chinese Canadian Museum and her passion for startup organizations in the cultural space. As a female leader, Dr. Lee discusses the importance of setting an example for her two daughters as a working mom. She also discusses her strategies for building great organizations from a human-centred perspective. Tune in to hear how all about this historical cultural initiative.

The COVID-19 Pandemic has undeniably disrupted almost all of our lives. Along with the rest of the world’s business sectors, many social service organizations have found themselves operating with far from normal business models. This episode is very timely with the current situation. Host, Douglas Nelson, talks with the Executive Director of the BC Center for Disease Control Foundation for Public Health, Kristy Kerr. Here, Kristy shares with us the response that her organization has been taking in the face of the COVID-19 Pandemic. She takes us to the early days of planning and preparation for the emergency situation and the ways they have been motivating their donors to make gifts to the emergency response fund. In this time of uncertainty, organizations such as the BCCDC Foundation must hold up and show people that there is light at the end of the Pandemic. Tune in to this insightful conversation.

A strong community can shape the future of healthcare, and Jennifer Gillivan, President and CEO of IWK Foundation, knows this firsthand. Their organization has become a driving force in improving specialized care for women, children, and families across the Maritimes. In this conversation, Jennifer shares how the foundation connects donors with bold healthcare initiatives, the power of community-driven philanthropy, and the challenges of leading in the social profit sector. She also dives into the importance of advancing research in women's healthcare and what it takes to build a sustainable impact. Join this inspiring discussion as Jennifer and host Douglas Nelson explore what it takes to create lasting change.

In this episode, Neelam Sahota, CEO of DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society joins Douglas Nelson to discuss the value of immigration to all Canadians. Neelam touches on the Canadian immigration system, the services desperately needed, and the importance of alignment and strong governance in any social profit organization. Tune in now to learn how DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society helps newcomers and diverse communities thrive in 2023.

On today's episode Sharlene Rutherford, CEO, Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation, joins Douglas Nelson, host, to discuss her leadership journey and the creation of the Alberta Women’s Health Foundation. In this episode, she walks us through the challenges of running both organizations, including engaging donors and boards to buy into their initiatives, leading a committed team to excellence, and doing advocacy work for better healthcare provision. Join in for an exciting conversation!

The Calgary John Howard Society (CJHS) is a charity that has been reducing crime and making Calgary communities safer since 1949 by helping youth and adults make positive changes and move away from criminal behavior. They do this by addressing the root causes of crime through education, employment programs, housing, and support so individuals have alternatives to breaking the law. Joining Douglas Nelson today to share what the charity is all about is Leslie McMechan, the Executive Director at CJHS. She also gives some insight into the great work that they do. 

Public health covers many different areas that are crucial to address. Equally crucial are the partners involved. In this episode, Kristy Kerr, the Executive Director of BCCDC Foundation for Public Health shares how the foundation, BCCDC, upholds to serve the community through disease surveillance, detection, treatment, prevention, and consultation. Strengthening the hallmarks of a strong and inclusive community and workforce is crucial in this sector. So how did the foundation fortify these hallmarks to serve the community better and protect the country’s asset, the public’s health? Tune in to this episode with Kristy Kerr to hear more from her!

All youth deserve an opportunity to improve their lives and explore their potential. In this episode, Douglas Nelson interviews the CEO of Take a Hike Foundation, Gordon Matchett, who provides some information about his wonderful and helpful program for the youth to help them work through whatever issues are holding them back. Reflecting on his own experiences, Gordon shares some wonderful advice on exploring the youth’s potential and talks about how his program has expanded and its personal impact to him.

In a world that often overlooks women’s health needs, we must advocate for a future where women’s health is prioritized and celebrated. Christoph Clodius is joined by Cally Wesson, BC Women's Health Foundation President & CEO and Women's Health Collective Canada Founding Member & Board Director. They discuss the initiative’s evolution, from its inception to its current role in amplifying the visibility and funding of crucial research. Cally highlights national collaboration, upcoming opportunities and the role that the new Executive Director’s will play in leveraging existing momentum. Tune in to learn about this exciting career opportunity.

How do you lead with purpose and compassion when faced with complex challenges like mental health issues, poverty, and homelessness? Douglas Nelson answers this big question with Wayne Leslie, Executive Director of the non-profit organization The Kettle Society. He shares how their Vancouver-based team provides crucial support and housing assistance to those facing mental illnesses, struggling with substance use, and lacking their own homes. Wayne shares his personal connection to the Kettle Society's mission and the unique challenges of leading this complex organization. Discover how this non-profit balances government funding with private donations while staying focused on the people they serve.

A community transforms and thrives when everyone's health are top priority. Strengthening that foundation enables children, families, and seniors to thrive in the future. In this enlightening episode, Heidi Worthington, CEO and President of YMCA BC, vividly illustrates efforts to create vibrant and healthy communities by bringing everyone equal access to health. Covering a broad spectrum of regions and guided by a comprehensive leadership approach that caters to the unique needs of each community, the YMCA BC's mission is clear. In her role as CEO, Heidi invites us into the heart of the YMCA BC community, where the transformative power of health equity takes centre stage. Tune in to discover how you can stand as a pillar of support alongside the YMCA BC, championing the cause of health equity for all.

There are many ways through which an individual or organization can measure the impact of philanthropy on the lives of the people it purports to affect. But at the end of the day, sometimes, what really matters most is that the change exists and is happening at the moment, and continues to happen. Andrew Chunilall is the Chief Executive Officer of Community Foundations of Canada, which focuses on creating system-level change on the issues that matter to Canadians. Douglas Nelson interviews Andrew about how foundations can create big changes in society. Make a big change in society today!

A leader doesn’t just sit at the top but works as the center of the organization. A great example of this is Sally Ginter. Sally is the CEO of the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation, an organization that fundraises for different interior health facilities in various communities. Sally’s complex role comes with many responsibilities: leading her organization, interacting with patients, and talking with donors. In this episode, she sits down with Douglas Nelson to discuss the value of emotional intelligence in leadership and the importance of keeping your center.

What are the elements of success for fundraisers to transition from raising money door-to-door to building programs and a culture of philanthropy? Douglas Nelson welcomes Ana-Maria Hobrough, the Vice President for Advancement at Sunnybrook Hospital Foundation. The first step is to identify your natural strength and skillset. Then figure out where you want to go with your project. It’s not about the scale but nailing the end game. Stay true to where you want to go. Bring people along and engage them in the mission. If developing a culture of philanthropy is your passion, this episode’s for you. 

There is a better social profit representation in the government with Niki Sharma's election as the Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-Profits. If you're working for the non-profit sector and wish to be recognized more as a partner in the community with the government, then this episode is for you. Due to the increasing recognition of social profits in its indispensable role for the communities' betterment, there are many points of improvement we need to work on. Niki believes that gathering hard data and improving communication are crucial to identify what steps should be taken next. Dive in and listen to Douglas Nelson’s interview with Niki to better grasp the various challenges that face the social profit sector and how best they should be addressed.

Health information is important, especially for first responders. MedicAlert is in charge of all this info. They make sure that first responders get all the health information they need. MedicAlert Foundation Canada is one of the nation’s longstanding health charities. Join Douglas Nelson as he talks to Leslie McGill, the organization’s CEO and President. Leslie's goal is to increase MedicAlert’s charitable impact, and build on a solid foundation with the first responder community. Learn how MedicAlert works and how they will continue to grow in the future.

Appearing defensive in a board meeting can break the trust between members. Learn that it's okay, to be honest, and to say "I don't know" if you really don't know. Join Douglas Nelson and learn five tactics that you can use to avoid being defensive in board CEO relations. As a leader, it's your job to step into these challenging conversations. Your board is just there to help you so that you can all move forward as one company. Stop being defensive and start being honest today!

Many discovery-orientated types of research across the country make the headlines. However, most of these were breakthroughs from a scientific perspective and not from a clinical perspective. This means that the patients don’t benefit from it, and sometimes the discovery doesn’t get translated for quite a long time. This is what the Terry Fox Research Institute or TFRI is trying to solve with their translational cancer research. Dr. Victor Ling takes a deep dive into translational research and how TFRI is figuring out how to translate discoveries so people and patients may benefit from these.

Discover the inspiring world of Royal Roads University as your host Christoph Clodius sits with Rebecca Sharma, the Director of Advancement, to discuss the university's growth, it's ambitious plans and a new role - Manager, Major Gifts. Rebecca shares the dynamic team culture, transformative projects, and the crucial role of equity, diversity, and inclusion in creating an inclusive and diverse workforce. She also talks about her journey as a former student at the university, where she discovered her own leadership practice and redefined her approach. Royal Roads University fosters a culture of appreciation and leverages the strengths of each team member through appreciative inquiry, empowering them with a distributed leadership model. With exciting new projects on the horizon and a team of caring, creative, and courageous individuals, the opportunity of Manager, Major Gifts is one of meaningful impact. Join us in this conversation and prepare to seize your next opportunity for growth.

Do you love skiing and look forward to competing in this sport? Then immerse yourself in an organization with a culture of excellence. Freestyle BC offers freestyle skiing programs in British Columbia, focusing on delivering ski programs that enable the athlete to succeed at the highest level of competition. In today’s episode, Josh Dueck, an aspiring professional skier and coach, shares his ordeals of being a professional skier and his path to becoming a coach. He also shares his insights on how his concept, “Safe Sports, Safe Athlete,” plays out for sports worldwide over the next couple of years. We’re changing culture and how people act and operate across the board regarding coaching and mentoring to protect these athletes with programs that value their physical and mental well-being. Tune in to The Discovery Pod to hear more from this inspirational episode.

Created by the Houssian family in 2005, The Houssian Foundation is one of the few private foundations that practices trust-based philanthropy. Douglas Nelson, host, is joined by Mira Oreck, Executive Director, to discuss how she is leading the foundation through the lens of trust and partnership. She talks about the foundation’s three portfolios and how they help raise awareness about society’s most pressing issues. Mira also shares insights about the negative stories and the common challenges surrounding the social profit sector.

Melissa From, the CEO and President of Calgary Food Bank, joins Douglas Nelson, host, as she candidly shares the experience of taking over a from a long-serving legacy leader. She delves into the principles she follows in building the management team to lead the organization to its new chapter. Melissa From also explains how she aligns the board and her organization in embarking on strategic planning. Check out this episode to collect more nuggets of wisdom from Melissa From. 

The Child Development Institute is making waves in youth mental health and early intervention today, addressing complex challenges many children and their families are struggling with in a post-pandemic world. Douglas Nelson speaks with their CEO Andrew Reddin about their innovative programs that equip young people with essential skills to improve their mental health care. Together, they delve into the post-pandemic surge of mental health needs, the importance of upstream investments, and how collaborative approaches shape better futures for various communities. Tune in as this inspiring conversation highlights the critical role of data-driven solutions and bold leadership in driving meaningful change.

In 2022, the Royal BC Museum faced major challenges due to the cancellation of the downtown campus rebuild. It fell to Tracey Drake, the museum’s CEO, to also rebuild the trust and reputation of the museum, as well as reinvigorate its connection with the community. In this conversation with Douglas Nelson, she provides a glimpse into the life of a CEO who handles such an overwhelming task. Tracey shares her magic trick when talking to their board and team members to avoid controversies without appearing defensive. She also talks about what it is like to be a non-indigenous leader committed to reconciliation, inclusivity, and cooperation.

What does it take to build a next-level social profit organization? Dr. Chris Lambert, CEO and Founder of the Detroit based Life Remodeled, joins the podcast to share how he built an innovative organization through four essential elements: team unity, a compelling vision, a sound strategy, and efficient execution. In his book, Next Level Nonprofit, breaks down the strategies that he applied. Prepare to get into the nitty-gritty because Dr. Lambert is not at all hesitant to share the worst mistakes that he made that gave him the best lessons of all. Tune in!

Money can be a great blessing to the one who gives and receives when it comes out of genuine support. Raising money for a cause is not everyone’s cup of tea. Mike House, however, is an exception. Mike’s fervor rooted from what he went through as a child with some pretty severe health issues. Bringing children’s healthcare forward, Mike became the CEO and President of Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. He lets us in on his big role with the foundation as he reveals the three things where leadership should be based, sharing as well his success and growth strategy. A values-based leader, he tackles the best way to work with your board and how to be most effective in conversations.

One area that contributes to the turnover in the social profit sector is its hesitance to invest in leadership development. Many people who can’t find leadership opportunities in the sector either search for a greener pasture next door or find a different role altogether. Having successfully transitioned in her career from being a fundraiser to CEO in the social profit sector to becoming an executive coach, Diane Lloyd of Inspired Results Group sits down with host Douglas Nelson to share her career journey and what her thoughts are when it comes to closing that gap in leadership training and development. She talks about the skills needed for leaders, the importance of having a coach, and the ways CEOs can go about asking their board for a budget. What is more, Diane also shares her thoughts on the current pandemic and how leaders can navigate in this tough time.

Great communities often have great universities at the heart of them. This has been proven true time and time again, as universities lead the way for development. Douglas Nelson sits down with the University of Calgary’s Interim Vice-President for Development and the leader for the “Energize: The Campaign for Eyes High” campaign that raised $1.41 Billion, Andrea Morris. Andrea talks about philanthropy in general, the challenges the campaign faced due to the global pandemic, and the importance of going back to basics. She also talks about connecting with people and humanizing them, not just as donors or colleagues but as real human beings. 

In this Opportunity Spotlight episode, Christoph Clodius is joined by Adrienne Carruthers, Co-Chair of the Midwives Association of British Columbia (MABC). She shares how she advocates for midwives’ access to proper health benefits, liability insurance, and training opportunities. Adrienne also explains MABC’s work for indigenous midwives and their current search for a new executive director.

Empowering African youth to thrive against all odds, Asante Africa Foundation pioneers change through education, leadership, and a shared vision for a brighter future. In this episode, Erna Grasz, CEO of Asante Africa Foundation, takes us through the evolution of an organization that's changing lives in East Africa, one community at a time. Erna reveals their pioneering model, a Global Alliance of local nonprofits working in harmony to empower individuals from ages nine to twenty-four. Through education, life skills, and livelihood development, Asante Africa equips youth to drive change within their communities. With a remarkable track record of impacting over a million lives and engaging with nearly 500 schools, the organization's achievements are inspiring, to say the least. Erna also explores the concept of "good philanthropy" and how mutual trust and co-creation drive lasting change. Join the vision of a future where African youth lead the charge toward economic empowerment and innovation. Tune in now!

In the social profit sector, trust is the biggest thing that mediates relationships between boards and leadership teams, but it’s not always easy to measure. At the Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation, Scott Elliott believes that the starting point for trust building is authenticity and integrity. Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Scott and his team of silent warriors are waging a softer fight against an older pandemic and the larger social issues that have always gone along with it. Joining Douglas Nelson on the show, he shares some of the challenges of leadership and maintaining board relationships at a time when everyone in the sector is forced to do a lot of things differently.

As the world keeps changing, research continues to provide understanding and knowledge about the things that affect us in our daily lives. It keeps us informed and, in times of crisis, prepared. In a global health crisis, the power of research—especially medical research—is undeniable. However, we can’t deny the fact that it can be quite costly. Responding to this concern, a group of community citizens who believed that investment in research would improve health outcomes created the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation. In this episode, Douglas Nelson invites its CEO, Joanne Bath, to share with us the interesting work they are doing in the organization and how they are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Joanne takes us inside their partnerships and donor relationships, as well as her journey of growing into this space and how she is taking charge of impacting social change and improving people’s lives.

In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Alex Wilson, Director of Communications of The Discovery Group, sits down with Douglas Nelson to ask him questions submitted from our listeners. Doug shares the insights and wisdom that he has gathered over his 20 year career in the social profit sector. The two touch on the recession, donor communication and the best approach in recruiting and retaining qualified talent.

Ever wonder how real environmental change takes root? In this episode, Douglas Nelson talks with Carolyn Scotchmer, Executive Director of TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (TD FEF), about their unique, donor-driven approach to supporting hands-on environmental projects across Canada. Carolyn shares how TD FEF funds grassroots initiatives, emphasizing community engagement and the importance of on-the-ground action, from school ground greening to local stream monitoring. Discover how they're empowering communities and the power of storytelling to amplify their impact.

Foundations and all kinds of charitable institutions are all purpose-driven, collectively moving towards a single goal. But what solidifies organizations like this is the community built upon and around it. Douglas Nelson is joined by Andrea Dicks, President of Community Foundations of Canada, to share how the government required them to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. She explains how they put equity at the center of their work and how they plan ahead while taking care of the wellbeing of their communities. Andrea also bares what she does as a leader when dealing with her frustrations, discussing her team's role in alleviating such challenges.

We have all felt the pandemic strip out human connection from all of us, but human connection has been in decline for a long time before social distancing made us painfully aware of it. If anything, COVID-19 merely intensified the loneliness pandemic that has been afflicting us for much longer. In his new book, broadcaster and philanthropist Riaz Meghji goes deep into the five habits that we can all start to build in order to improve our relationships, both personal and professional. Every Conversation Counts is a powerful work that every leader in the social profit sector needs to read, especially in these challenging times. Listen in as Riaz shares with Douglas Nelson the rationale behind the writing of the book and the gist of the message contained within it.

Today, we welcome Maureen Young, Vice President of Social Purpose at Coast Capital Savings, to discuss the evolution of social purpose in business. Coast Capital Savings has integrated social impact into its core business model, shifting away from traditional corporate responsibility. Maureen shares insights on how this approach fosters deeper community partnerships and drives meaningful change. Tune in to hear how Coast Capital is setting a new standard in the financial sector by embedding purpose into everything they do, and what this shift means for the future of business.

The fight for reproductive justice is an ongoing struggle that continues to face political and philosophical challenges despite the rise of movements in support of this cause. As the Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Toronto, Mohini Datta-Ray is at the forefront of carrying out programs that aim to advance reproductive health and the overall well-being of young people. In this episode, she sits down with Douglas Nelson to share what it takes to sustain leadership in a challenging environment. Mohini lets us in on her experience leading this organization in the current context, where we are seeing the rolling back of reproductive rights in the United States. Leading through complexity, she also talks about serving from the zone of excellence and learning when to hand over the reins when the season for your leadership is over. Join this conversation and find out how a youth-driven, culturally-responsive community health centre overcomes towering issues and moves forward in the name of reproductive justice.

Your brand should represent your capability of being a leader. That means you have to undergo advanced research and provide innovative solutions to people. In this episode, Douglas Nelson sits down for a conversation with the CEO of Praxis Spinal Cord Institute, Bill Barrable. Bill leads a diverse and multidisciplinary team of experts focused on creating solutions for people with spinal cord injuries. Under his collaborative leadership, the Institute has achieved significant recognition. He discusses the most promising ideas from a lab into clinical practice and the marketplace, and ultimately into the lives of people who need them. He also talks about how investment of resources can help you develop the solutions you want to create for people. Tune into this episode to learn more about research, development and making a huge difference in the world.

Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario is improving Ontario’s mental health and addiction services for youth by providing the right services at the right time through an impressive a network of 22 hubs. In this episode, Dr. Jo Henderson, Executive Director of Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario, discusses how the organization balances program fidelity and community customization. They share advice on dealing with false efficiency narratives, their journey in the social profit sector and the future of mental health care. Tune in to learn more!

Today on Opportunity Spotlight, host Christoph Clodius is joined by the CEO of Beacon Community Services, Tricia Gueulette to discuss a brand new opportunity - Director of Development. Tricia shares her vision for Beacon Community Services and the critical role the Director of Development will play in its future. Tune in now, and find out if this opportunity should be yours!

The Pacific Salmon Foundation is a nonprofit that focuses on rebuilding and improving the ecosystems for salmon. Running a massive organization with such a unique structure as this charity has is a one-in-a-kind challenge. We get taken into the ins-and-outs of the Pacific Salmon Foundation by Allison Colina, Vice President of Development, Marketing, and Communications. In this episode, she talks us through her journey from healthcare to becoming a social profit leader. She also gives insights on how the community and government policy play a part in the charity’s conservation efforts. 

In this episode, Douglas Nelson welcomes Rowena Veylan to discuss the importance of Indigenous Fundraising Protocols and how they shape the future of fundraising in Canada. As the founder of The New School of Fundraising, Rowena shares her journey and the inspiration behind creating a platform that challenges traditional fundraising methods while promoting ethical practices. Tune in to discover how intentionality, continuous learning, and embracing cultural differences can lead to more effective and inclusive fundraising efforts.

Navigating change in healthcare requires bold leadership, deep empathy, and a commitment to ongoing evolution. In this episode, Alexa Pitoulis, Executive Director of BC Family Doctors, shares her experience leading an organization at the forefront of family medicine advocacy. She dives into the longitudinal family physician payment model, the rapid transformations sparked by the pandemic, and the power of iterative change. Alexa also explores how strategic planning can serve as a tool for connection and collaboration — and why creating space for reflection is essential for sustained progress.

One good thing about the pandemic is that it paved the way for giving more importance to health care services for families and communities. In this episode, Douglas Nelson interviews the CEO of Surrey Hospitals Foundation^TM, Jane Adams. Jane has been named one of Canada's most influential CEOs, and she's been a great builder of organizations throughout her career. Today, she shares her leadership journey and the process of establishing the center with help from other professionals. Join Douglas and Jane to learn about her strategy and vision in managing the foundation.

As technology continues to evolve according to the changing demands of users, organizations must learn to go with the flow to stay relevant and visible. And this boils down into two primary focuses: innovation and engagement. Douglas Nelson sits down with Jan Kaderly of A Line Strategy to discuss how organizations can utilize technology and the internet to cause significant shifts in their processes and operations while maintaining the ability to differentiate themselves from the rest. She also goes deep into the right way to drive engagement with a target market, particularly on why it is better to focus on a small number of people that you can truly resonate with rather than aimlessly targeting a huge population.

In anticipation of the Coronation of King Charles III, Douglas Nelson sits down with Farah Mohamed, CEO of the Prince’s Trust Canada. She talks about their development programs for veterans leaving active service and equity-deserving youth looking for employment. Farah explains how their work investing in these amazing people helps them pursue promising opportunities and serve society in fulfilling ways. She also discusses how leaders should approach the war for talent and why she prefers the term social profit over nonprofit.

Barbara Grantham, CEO of Care Canada, is back on the show to discuss the challenges and rewards of transitioning from leading a regional organization to a global one. Barbara reflects on the evolution of her role, emphasizing the shift from local to international leadership and the complexities she has faced. She shares insights into Care Canada's origins, its mission to empower women globally, and the dynamic landscape of humanitarian work. In a world fraught with challenges, Barbara navigates discussions on risk management, cybersecurity, and safeguarding, shedding light on the multifaceted responsibilities of leading a global NGO. With transparency and resilience, Barbara embodies a commitment to nurturing future leaders, delivering significant impact, and advocating for the sector.