The Unfiltered Non-Profit: Leaders Share It All (Cherry Chan)

In this inaugural episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we welcome Tracy Folkes Hanson, President and CEO of the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE). Tracy, a visionary leader with extensive experience in both the private and nonprofit sectors, shares her journey from a marketing communications background to her current role in nonprofit leadership. Her diverse career path includes roles at MasterCard International and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce before taking the helm at CSAE in 2017.

We dive into Tracy's leadership experiences, the challenges of transitioning from corporate to nonprofit sectors, and the importance of maintaining corporate culture in a virtual environment. Tracy discusses CSAE's adaptation to virtual operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the innovative strategies they have implemented to foster collaboration and inclusivity. She also highlights a new policy at CSAE allowing employees to swap statutory holidays for ones of personal significance, reflecting the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Listen to gain valuable insights into effective nonprofit leadership and the significance of creating a supportive work culture. Tracy’s emphasis on embracing change, recognizing the importance of mental health, and leveraging technology to maintain team cohesion in a virtual setting provides practical takeaways for leaders in the nonprofit sector. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and drive positive organizational change.

Connect with Tracy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyfolkeshanson/

Learn more about CSAE Here: https://csae.com/

In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Lori Prospero, the CEO of Rising Oaks Early Learning Ontario. Lori’s career didn’t exactly follow a straight line—she started out thinking she’d be a chemist, but a few twists and turns later, she found herself leading a nonprofit that serves 15,500 families. Along the way, she picked up her Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation and a treasure trove of lessons on leadership and governance.

Lori shares how she’s helped transform Rising Oaks into a stronger, more focused organization. One of her coolest tricks? A board color card system that keeps meetings on track. Here’s how it works: everyone gets green, yellow, and red cards. If the conversation starts creeping into operations, someone quietly flashes a yellow card. If things get way off track, out comes the red card. It’s like a governance traffic light, and it’s been a total game-changer for fostering trust and keeping everyone in their lane.

We also get into one of Lori’s most stressful moments as a leader—a governance session that went sideways and led to a confidence vote on her leadership. Yep, it was intense. But Lori pushed through, leaned on her champions, and came out the other side with a stronger board and a clearer vision for the future. Her story is proof that tough times can lead to amazing results if you’re willing to stick with it.

If you’ve ever wrestled with governance challenges, struggled to engage your board, or wondered how to balance the big picture with day-to-day operations, this episode is for you. Lori’s got practical tips, relatable stories, and a whole lot of heart. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Jessie Card, Executive Director of Youth Ottawa, to discuss how nonprofits can move beyond grant dependency and adopt a social enterprise mindset. Under Jessie’s leadership, Youth Ottawa transformed its funding model—growing from 0% earned revenue in 2018 to 18% of total revenue generated through paid programming with school boards. This shift has not only strengthened the organization's sustainability but also reinforced its impact, proving that nonprofits can thrive by thinking like businesses while staying mission-driven.

Jessie shares how his own experiences with learning challenges inspired him to empower youth through skills development, media literacy, and entrepreneurship. He discusses the crucial role of prevention—investing in young people early yields long-term benefits, with research showing every $1 spent on youth programs can save $5 to $7 in future social costs. Youth Ottawa's innovative approach actively involves young people in shaping and delivering programming, ensuring they gain leadership experience and economic opportunities while driving community change.

Beyond financial sustainability, Youth Ottawa has created flagship initiatives like the RBC 21 Under 21 Awards and the Mars Charity Golf Classic, which not only recognize and celebrate young changemakers but also serve as key revenue streams to fund impactful programs. Jessie’s insights challenge traditional nonprofit mindsets, emphasizing that organizations must embrace sales, marketing, and business acumen to survive and scale their missions.

This conversation is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders looking to innovate their funding models, maximize social impact, and turn financial challenges into opportunities. If you’re navigating similar struggles, this episode provides actionable insights on how to leverage partnerships, rethink revenue strategies, and build a financially resilient nonprofit.

Today, we’re diving deep into the world of nonprofit leadership with none other than Jason Burggraaf, Executive Director of the Greater Ottawa Home Builders' Association (GOHBA). 

Jason's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From studying political science at Carleton and volunteering on Parliament Hill to turning GOBHA from a one staff member organization during pandemic (because almost all his staff left for various reasons), to leading GOHBA winning the prestigious Home Builder Association of the Year and he himself winning the Executive Officer of the Year at the Canadian Home Builder Association Leadership Awards, Jason's story is a masterclass in dedication, strategy, and resilience.

I’m excited to dive into our conversation today where we’ll explore Jason’s journey, his insights on having the opportunity to build the organization from ground up, strategies that he used to increase membership revenue by 33% and his personal hacks on maintaining his work life balance.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sat down with Tim Hudak, the former CEO of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA). After spending over 20 years in politics and even leading Ontario's Progressive Conservative Party, he made a big leap into nonprofit leadership. Making a major career shift can be daunting, and Tim’s journey is full of insights that could help anyone facing similar challenges.

When Tim took over at OREA, he walked straight into a big challenge—losing their role as the certification body for real estate agents in Ontario. This wasn’t just a small bump in the road; it meant losing 60% of their revenue. For any nonprofit leader, that’s a nightmare scenario. But instead of letting this crisis knock them down, Tim guided OREA through a careful and resourceful transformation. They had to make tough decisions, including downsizing, but they also refocused on what really mattered. Today, OREA is stronger and more effective than ever. If you’ve ever had to make hard choices to keep your organization afloat, Tim’s experience is both relatable and inspiring.

We also talked about OREA’s new insurance program, which has been a hot topic lately. Many real estate agents didn’t have any health or life insurance—a situation a lot of small nonprofits and independent workers can relate to. While there’s been some pushback, Tim is focused on the bigger picture: helping those who really need it. If you’ve ever rolled out a new initiative that didn’t sit well with everyone, you’ll understand the balancing act Tim is doing here. His dedication to doing what’s best for the members, even when it’s tough, really stood out to us.

This episode is full of down-to-earth advice and real-world examples of how to turn setbacks into opportunities. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit through challenging times or trying to introduce new programs while dealing with pushback, there’s a lot you can take away from our chat with Tim.

I am thrilled to welcome Beth McMahon, CEO of the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP). Beth’s extensive executive experience and dedication to non-profit leadership make her a powerhouse in the sector.

Beth’s story is one of bold moves and relentless dedication. Imagine driving across the country for a part-time role that demanded double the effort – that’s how Beth started her journey. She grew an organization from her living room into a major player in the non-profit sector.

Connect with Beth McMahon on LinkedIn: Beth McMahon Learn more about CIP: Canadian Institute of Planners

When Beth joined CIP in 2016, the organization was on the brink of collapse. Through her visionary leadership, she revitalized CIP, increasing membership by over 40% and significantly boosting financial stability.

Beth isn’t just about big-picture ideas; she’s about getting things done.  For this episode, Beth brought in a large laminated table mat, instantly sparking our curiosity.  This mat, she explained, is her secret weapon for keeping her board and management team laser-focused on their strategic plan. This simple yet effective tool has been a game-changer in maintaining cohesion and direction within her organization.  

In 2024, Beth received the Social Innovation Leader Award from the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE). This award recognizes leaders who are dedicated to exploring new ideas and promoting sustainable inclusive and collaborative practices by adopting innovative and creative strategies and initiatives to leverage CSAE’s community.  

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking for straightforward, actionable advice to boost your non-profit. Tune in to hear Beth’s journey, her challenges, and the incredible success stories that will motivate you to take your organization to the next level..

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I'm sitting down with Krista Gionet, the Chief Executive Officer at the helm of the Windsor-Essex County Association of Realtors. Having been with this organization for more than 35 years, Krista will share an amazing career path—from age 18 in the MLS Department to over 21 years as CEO. Her story is one of hard work, adaptability, and giving back to the community. 

She talks about some of the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry and the big decision to leave her union job to advance her career. She credits her success to her work ethic and the people who supported her along the way.

One of the major highlights of her career was leading the 100-Mile Peninsula Initiative, which positioned Windsor-Essex as a top choice for retirees and boosted the local economy. This 11-year initiative shows Krista's long-term focus on making a real difference in the community. 

Throughout the episode, Krista shares how she empowers her team and fosters respect in the workplace. She notes that her entire staff has been with her long-term, and she attributes her leadership success to treating everyone equally and creating a space where people enjoy coming to work. Her leadership style is inspiring and offers valuable lessons for anyone stepping into the nonprofit world. Whether you're curious about building a successful nonprofit or leading and motivating a team for the long haul, this episode is packed with insights from Krista's years of experience. Tune in for practical advice to inspire your own nonprofit journey.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, host Cherry Chan sits down with Rob Henderson, President & CEO of BioTalent Canada, to discuss how he successfully transitioned his nonprofit from government dependency to financial sustainability. Rob shares the hard decisions, bold strategies, and entrepreneurial mindset that helped BioTalent Canada diversify its revenue and thrive.

Overcoming the Challenge of Lost Government Funding
When BioTalent Canada received news that their federal funding would be cut, they faced a critical turning point. Instead of scaling back, Rob took a bold, business-driven approach to nonprofit revenue diversification—building industry partnerships, offering consulting services, and creating a self-sustaining funding model.

Lessons in Leadership and Change Management
Rob doesn’t shy away from the reality of leading through change. He shares how nonprofit leaders must adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, make tough staffing decisions, and embrace revenue diversification to ensure long-term impact.

• Practical Strategies for Nonprofit Revenue Diversification
  In this episode, Rob breaks down actionable steps for nonprofits looking to diversify revenue, including:
  Establishing corporate partnerships that bring in recurring revenue
  Creating value-driven sponsorship models
  Leveraging government funding for specific projects instead of relying on operational grants
  Developing consulting or training services as additional income streams

The Intersection of DEI and Financial Sustainability
Rob also shares how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) plays a role in nonprofit success. Through initiatives like the IDEA Committee and the Ideal Bioscience Employer designation, BioTalent Canada ensures that its workforce and funding strategies align with its mission.

💡 If your nonprofit is struggling with funding challenges, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how an entrepreneurial mindset and revenue diversification can create financial stability while staying true to your mission.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Non-Profit Podcast, we’re joined by Jean-François Champagne, President of the Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA). JF opens up about a major challenge his team faced while trying to launch a certification program for collision repair shops. Despite the support they received and the huge investment—both in time and money—the program struggled due to competition from car manufacturers offering their own certifications. Ultimately, JF made the tough call to shut it down, teaching him a valuable lesson about understanding the market and adapting when things don’t go as planned.

JF also shared how embracing technology helped AIA Canada during the pandemic. The organization had already started using remote work tools, which made the shift to fully virtual work much smoother for their 30-person team. This forward-thinking approach not only kept the team productive but also helped them attract and keep top talent during a time when many companies were struggling.

A big part of the conversation was JF’s commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. He shared stories about how AIA Canada’s culture has helped team members, like their VP of Finance, step into leadership roles. For JF, diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s about making sure everyone has a chance to succeed.

From dealing with tough advocacy challenges to building a strong team, JF’s leadership journey is packed with valuable insights for anyone working in the nonprofit world. Tune in to hear more about how he handles setbacks and leads with purpose.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we speak with Nick Neuheimer, CEO of the Canadian Association of Radiologists, about his path into nonprofit leadership and why he helped start the Ottawa Association Executive Network (OAEN).

Nick shares how he moved from a career in economics to association management, eventually becoming a CEO and earning his Certified Association Executive(CAE) designation along the way. Through that journey, one theme kept coming up: the importance of connection.

After years of virtual meetings and isolated leadership roles, Nick saw a clear need for a space where nonprofit and association professionals could meet face-to-face, learn from each other, and build relationships. That’s what led to the launch of OAEN. More than just networking events, the sessions are focused on real issues—like advocacy, governance, and succession planning—offering practical insights and a chance to talk honestly with peers.

In this conversation, Nick and Cherry discuss:

• How peer networks can support leaders through tough decisions
  
  

• Why in-person connection still matters, especially in hiring
  
  

• The role of OAEN in helping leaders at all stages of their careers
  
  

• And how creating space for shared learning can strengthen the entire sector
  
  

If you’re looking for a community of nonprofit and association leaders who are open, curious, and committed to learning—this episode is for you.

About OTUS Financial Solutions:

At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.

If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit’s financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let’s make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I sit down with Caitlin Morrison, Executive Director of the Matthew Perry Foundation, to talk about the bold, love-fueled journey behind Matthew Perry House — a groundbreaking initiative offering long-term recovery housing and support for people struggling with substance use.

We explore how Caitlin and the Matthew Perry Foundation, along with a powerful coalition of local organizations, are redefining what recovery can look like in Canada. This episode dives into why three years of care is the magic number, and how Caitlin’s nonprofit journey—sparked by a temporary job and a deep love for people—has led to building something extraordinary in her brother’s name.

This isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about people. It’s about healing. It’s about changing the system, one community at a time.

Caitlin shares how a full year of support can triple someone’s chances of long-term recovery, and how reaching the three-year mark brings that number to 83%. With 167 residential units planned in Ottawa, the first Matthew Perry House is designed to provide not just treatment, but a true home—where community, mentorship, and individualized care come together to create lasting change. The Matthew Perry Foundation is already breaking ground on this project, less than a year after the first conversation, showing what’s possible when collaboration replaces competition.

Whether you're in nonprofit leadership, recovery support, or just curious about what’s possible when community and purpose collide — this episode will leave you inspired by the impact the Matthew Perry Foundation is creating.

💬 “It’s all love. It’s him. And that’s why we’re doing this.”

About OTUS Financial Solutions:

At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.

If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit’s financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let’s make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

Welcome to the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast. Today, we are  joined by Emily Jones, co-founder of Connected Canadians, a nonprofit that has successfully turned corporate training into a sustainable revenue stream while helping seniors build digital literacy skills.

What started as a self-funded initiative quickly evolved when Emily and her team recognized the need for a more reliable funding model. They leveraged their expertise in digital literacy and developed training programs for major corporations, securing partnerships with Rogers, Amazon, TD Canada, and Best Buy. Their breakthrough deal with Rogers resulted in over 2,000 training licenses sold, equipping technicians with the skills to better assist senior customers. This success validated their model and led to further collaborations with other industry leaders, helping them build sustainable revenue beyond grants and donations.

By monetizing their knowledge, Connected Canadians established a scalable funding approach that not only supports free digital literacy services for seniors but also enhances corporate interactions with older adults. Their programs help bridge the generational tech gap while ensuring businesses are equipped to meet the needs of a growing senior population. In addition, their cybersecurity training initiative empowers seniors to navigate the digital world safely, addressing a critical concern in an era of increasing online fraud and scams. Their ability to generate sustainable revenue from training ensures they can continue offering these vital programs without financial instability.

This episode delves into how nonprofits can monetize their expertise and build sustainable revenue streams without relying solely on grants. Emily shares how strategic partnerships, a compelling value proposition, and a commitment to mission-driven business practices have allowed Connected Canadians to grow while staying true to its purpose.

Visit Connected Canadians to learn more about their innovative funding model and impact. Subscribe to the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast for more insights from nonprofit leaders who are redefining sustainability in the sector.

In this episode, Cherry sits down with Steven Heckbert, the Executive Director of the Canadian Pork Council. Steven’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—he’s got over 15 years of teaching experience and 20 years working in communications. We talk about how he made the leap from being a professor to leading in the nonprofit world and why he believes communication and genuine connections are at the heart of making a real difference.

Steven shares some amazing insights on how the Canadian Pork Council drives an economic impact of $11.2 billion and supports over 100,000 jobs in rural communities. He talks about the creative ways they’ve been getting the government’s attention, like recently holding 30+ meetings in a single day to make sure pork producers’ voices are heard.

One of the standout stories he shared was about partnering with Rib Fest on Spark Street in Ottawa. They drew in 250 attendees—all while building stronger connections with lawmakers in a really fun, engaging way. He also opens up about how they’re preparing for challenges like African swine fever and working closely with the government to protect the industry.

Steven’s genuine and down-to-earth approach is truly refreshing. We chat about the power of simply saying thank you, valuing your team, and keeping your messaging simple and honest. This conversation is packed with great advice for anyone looking to make a real impact in the nonprofit world.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Elizabeth Fowler, the Executive Director of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS). For Elizabeth, running is more than just a way to stay in shape—it’s her go-to for clearing her mind, reflecting on decisions, and thinking through the big stuff. It’s no surprise she compares leadership to long-distance running: both require endurance, focus, and the grit to push through challenging moments.

Elizabeth’s journey to nonprofit leadership wasn’t a straight path. She started out in exercise science before moving into health policy consulting. A pivotal moment came when she chose to walk away from a role she loved because the leadership there wasn’t open to feedback. That experience shifted her approach—now, as a leader, she makes it a point to listen and collaborate. For her, it’s about creating harmony within the team, much like finding your rhythm during a long run.

At COS, Elizabeth has led initiatives that extend far beyond day-to-day operations. She’s launched a health fund aimed at supporting employees' physical and mental well-being, working to make COS one of the top places to work in Ottawa. But, like running, leadership has its tough moments—Elizabeth has had to make difficult calls that affect the future of the organization, all while keeping her team motivated and supported.

In this episode, we explore how Elizabeth juggles the demands of leading a national nonprofit while staying grounded, both through her running and through the deliberate, thoughtful decisions that help move her organization forward. It’s a conversation packed with insights for anyone trying to find their rhythm in leadership—or in life.

What happens when the demand for your services grows faster than your funding? In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I sit down with Michelle Crogie, Executive Director of PLEO (Parents’ Lifeline of Eastern Ontario), to talk about the real challenges of leading a high-impact nonprofit through growth, heartbreak, and hustle. From securing grants to launching events, we explore real-world nonprofit revenue growth strategies that go beyond the theory.

Michelle shares how PLEO’s services—like their helpline and support groups—are at full capacity, even though core funding only covers about 25% of their budget. The rest? It’s a constant effort: grant writing, donor campaigns, and creative fundraising like their first-ever gala, which raised $12,000. Ever tried to expand a mental health program with year-to-year money? That’s the juggling act—and Michelle’s approach offers important lessons for nonprofit revenue growth strategies in action.

One of the most compelling parts of our conversation is PLEO’s Youth-Nominated Support Team program. Early results show a sharp drop in suicidal ideation after just six weeks—a powerful reminder of why sustainable funding matters. With 26 partner agencies backing their Health Canada grant application, Michelle is building momentum for scale. If you’ve ever had to chase dollars while trying to make a difference, this episode gives you a raw, honest look at nonprofit revenue growth strategies that are rooted in purpose—not just spreadsheets.

About OTUS Financial Solutions:

At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.

If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit’s financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let’s make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we chat with the Executive Director of Jericho Road, a nonprofit that's all about transforming lives through addiction recovery. What makes his story extra special? He was once a participant in Jericho Road’s program himself. His journey from addiction to recovery now fuels his mission to help others. Under his leadership, Jericho Road has hit some amazing milestones.

One of the coolest things he's done is hiring from within. Many of the top and most dedicated employees at Jericho Road are former clients. These folks bring incredible passion and commitment to their roles because they’ve been there and know what it takes. This hiring approach creates a super supportive and empathetic environment for current program members. Former clients who become employees offer invaluable insights and relatable support, making the program even more effective.

Since taking the reins, the Executive Director has added an extra house, boosting the organization’s capacity by 20% and cutting down the waiting list. He’s also led successful fundraising events like the Coldest Night of the Year walk, pulling in over $50,000 each year. Plus, by implementing a CRM system, donor retention has jumped by 30%, showing how tech can really help an organization grow.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Non-Profit Podcast, we chat with Cheryl Farrow, CEO of the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT).

Cheryl talks about how she guided the association through a big shift in how they operate, focusing on making things more open and getting members more involved. One of the things she’s most proud of is launching “fireside chats,” where OACETT members can ask questions directly. These started small with just over 100 people, but in a few months, they grew to over 800—proof that their new, open approach was really working.

Cheryl also shares how they tackled a tough financial challenge in 2022. When the stock market took a hit, it led to some unexpected losses in their investment portfolio. The association had been depending on those returns to balance the budget, so Cheryl and her team moved quickly to make adjustments. They raised membership dues by about 30%. Although they were bracing for some members to leave, the response was surprisingly positive, and they managed to balance the budget without major losses.

From handling financial bumps in the road to boosting member engagement, Cheryl’s leadership shows how associations can adapt and thrive when things change. Tune in to hear how she’s leading OACETT with openness and a clear vision.

Get ready for an insightful and inspiring episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast! This week we are sitting down with Paul Lansbergen, a Certified Association Executive and seasoned nonprofit leader with over 30 years of experience in public policy, association management, and advocacy. Paul’s journey is proof that with the right mindset, challenges can turn into opportunities.

Paul shares how volunteering kick-started his career, opening doors to his first major role on Parliament Hill and teaching him the power of building strong networks. He also takes us behind the scenes of his transformative work with the Fisheries Council of Canada, where he revitalized their annual conference—rebranding it, boosting sponsorships, and turning it into a significant revenue driver that grew profits to $50,000. Paul’s strategic decisions also doubled the organization’s budget and increased reserves by 50%, showcasing his ability to balance financial growth with mission-driven work.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. Paul opens up about navigating career setbacks, staying resilient through tough transitions, and the lessons he’s learned about persistence and adaptability in nonprofit leadership. He emphasizes the importance of aligning decisions with a clear strategic plan and finding creative ways to make a lasting impact, no matter the resources at hand.

Packed with practical tips, personal stories, and a touch of humor, this episode is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders, executive directors, or anyone passionate about leadership and making a difference. Whether you’re looking to grow your organization, sharpen your leadership skills, or just hear an inspiring career journey, you won’t want to miss this episode.

What does it take to advocate for 65,000 grain farmers across Canada? In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of Grain Growers of Canada, to explore the realities of nonprofit leadership and advocacy in a constantly shifting political landscape. Representing farmers who produce 70% of Canada’s grain exports, Kyle shares how his team works tirelessly on Parliament Hill to address issues that directly impact Canadian agriculture.

We discuss Kyle’s journey into nonprofit leadership, his strategies for aligning advocacy with government priorities, and the importance of adapting to change—whether it’s in policies, leadership, or public focus. One standout success Kyle shares is his role in creating the third-ever national college in Canada for intellectual property agents, a multi-year achievement that highlights the power of persistence and collaboration.

Kyle also opens up about the challenges he faced as a young leader, including overcoming age-related biases early in his career. His advice? Trust your expertise and stay confident, even in uncertain times.

If you’ve ever wondered how political change impacts nonprofits—or how to stay focused when the ground shifts beneath you—this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world lessons. Tune in to learn how advocacy evolves and why it matters for everyone

In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Susan Ingram, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa, shares how her leadership helped turn a small idea into a thriving social enterprise. Thrive Select Thrift started with just three clothing bins and a $5,000 investment in 2015. Today, it has grown into a successful thrift store that has diverted over 1.5 million pounds of clothing from landfills, generated nearly $500,000 in revenue, and provided 4,448 hours of job training for youth. Beyond raising funds, Thrive Select Thrift has become a key part of their mission, offering mentorship and a safe space for young people to learn and grow.

Susan’s leadership played a big role in making this happen. With a background in operations and business, she brought practical skills to the nonprofit world, combining strong planning with a “start small” approach. She credits partnerships with organizations like RBC and a supportive board of directors for helping her overcome challenges. Susan also shares how nonprofits often shy away from risks, but by taking small, thoughtful steps—like piloting with a few bins before opening a store—she was able to build confidence in the project and make it work.

For Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa, Thrive Select Thrift is more than just a revenue stream. The store provides a physical space for the community to connect with their mission, meet the youth they support, and see their impact firsthand. Susan explains how this has helped showcase their work, which is often hard to “see” since mentorship relationships happen privately. The store also gives young people real-world job training, helping them build skills and a sense of belonging that will stay with them long after their time in the program.

Are you looking for new ways to support your nonprofit’s mission and diversify your revenue? What small steps could you take to test an idea and build toward something bigger? This episode is full of insights for nonprofit leaders ready to take the leap into social enterprise.

We are thrilled to feature Heather Norris, President and CEO of the Ottawa Network for Education (ONFE). Heather is a visionary leader known for her significant contributions to the nonprofit sector. In this episode, she shares her diverse career journey, which spans healthcare management and community impact, leading to her current role at ONFE. Heather discusses various ONFE programs, such as the school breakfast program, indoor classroom garden towers, and initiatives supporting financial literacy and youth facing substance use issues.

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic inflation, ONFE continues to serve over 177,000 meals daily, demonstrating resilience and dedication to student welfare. Heather recounts her advocacy efforts, including running 200 laps on Parliament Hill to raise awareness for a national school food program, which led to a historic federal funding commitment.

Heather also offers valuable insights into nonprofit leadership, strategic career moves, and the importance of seeking feedback. She discusses transitioning to a hybrid work environment and maintaining organizational culture and collaboration among a diverse team.

Connect with Heather Norris on LinkedIn: Heather Norris Learn more about ONFE here: ONFE

On this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry Chan dives into a candid conversation with Peter Braid, CEO of the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada (IBAC). Peter didn’t always lead a nonprofit—he actually started in politics, winning his first election by a nail-biting 17 votes! That experience taught him a lot about persistence and connecting with people, lessons he’s carried into his work with IBAC, where he’s been the CEO for the past seven years.

Peter shared how, over the last 35 years, IBAC has built a strong voice for Canada’s insurance brokers by showing up in Ottawa and advocating for things like consumer protection and fair competition. Each year, they host “Hill Day” so that brokers from across the country can meet with MPs, building bridges that help when big issues pop up. With small business owners in every town, insurance brokers bring a relatable, hometown voice to Ottawa, which Peter believes has been key to IBAC’s long-term success.

But managing a national nonprofit isn’t without challenges. Peter explained how he keeps IBAC’s 11 provincial members working together, even when their interests don’t always align. A new national survey has helped everyone stay on the same page, and Peter says open communication has been essential for IBAC’s advocacy work.

Peter wrapped up by sharing his approach to managing stress, a reality for any leader today. From listening to live music to getting out of town, Peter’s all about finding those moments to disconnect and recharge. His journey from Parliament to nonprofit leadership is a reminder that resilience and relationship-building go a long way in making a difference.