The Discovery Pod

Douglas Nelson visits his hometown Calgary, Alberta and sits down with Christy Holtby, Vice President of Development of the Alberta Cancer Foundation. She talks about the billion-dollar partnership between their foundation, the Government of Alberta, and Siemens Healthineers, aimed at significantly investing in Alberta's healthcare system. Christy looks back on how this groundbreaking partnership came together and how it could potentially elevate cancer care and research. She also explores their recent fundraising campaigns and the importance of aligning stakeholders and donors with a single, purpose-driven goal.

What if leading one of North America's largest United Ways meant revolutionizing charitable work itself? Michael McKnight, CEO of United Way British Columbia, reveals the hunt for a visionary Chief Development Officer, a role that's not just about fundraising, but about reshaping the future of philanthropy. Forget dusty traditions; this is about leveraging cutting-edge tech like Food Link, fostering deep community trust, and igniting province-wide impact. Michael shares why the perfect candidate will dive into a world where collaboration isn't just encouraged, it's essential, and where every day offers the chance to transform lives. This isn't just a job—it's a chance to be at the forefront of a movement, pushing a 95-year-old institution into a bold new era and asking, what could charity truly achieve with the right leader at the helm?

What does it take for a 140-year-old organization to stay relevant, radical, and rooted in justice?Today, we sit down with Amanda Burrows, Executive Director of First United, a cornerstone of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. From providing essential services like food, water, and shelter to driving real policy change through data-backed advocacy, Amanda shares how First United continues to evolve—without ever compromising its values.We explore the tension between frontline service and systemic reform, celebrate community resilience, and dig into how their legal advocacy led to groundbreaking housing legislation in BC. Plus, Amanda unpacks how deep-rooted integrity builds bridges with donors and fuels their powerful partnerships in the fight against poverty.Tune in to hear how one organization blends compassion, courage, and conviction to make meaningful impact—generation after generation.

Many indigenous students still struggle to get access to proper education even in these modern times. In Canada, registered charity Indspire is making a real difference by investing in the education of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people. Sitting down with Douglas Nelson is their president and CEO Mike DeGagné who talks about their noble mission as the largest non-government funder of indigenous education in Canada. Mike talks about their efforts to vastly improve their reach and overcome their biggest financial barriers by partnering with the right organizations. He also discusses the importance of indigenizing universities, creating indigenous student centers, and boosting student's intellectual capacity for economic development and self-determination.

Almost everyone spends a huge chunk of their days glued to their phones and scrolling through endless online content. This engagement-rich virtual world must be leveraged by non-profit organizations when gathering charitable donations. Douglas Nelson sits down with Wen-Chih O'Connell, executive director of PayPal Giving Fund Canada, who supports charities raising funds through PayPal and other technological platforms. She explains why bringing your fundraising projects online is highly attractive to the younger generation, who desire transparency and speed above anything else. Wen-Chih also discusses how to overcome barriers to fundraising digitization and make online giving smoother and safer than ever before.

Covenant House Vancouver has been serving young people to help them get out of homelessness and provide them with everything they need to enjoy a comfortable life. Its CEO, Deb Lester, provides a glimpse of what they are doing behind the scenes to make a real difference for youth at risk. In this conversation with Douglas Nelson, she shares what it takes to be a leader in an already effective organization and what it takes to bring it to the next level. Deb talks about the role of her experiences on the frontlines of health, education, and social services in bringing people together to protect and safeguard the youth.

The Equality Fund is redefining the way we invest in gender justice by combining philanthropy, grant-making, and impact investing. Join Douglas Nelson as he sits down with Jess Tomlin, CEO of the Equality Fund. In this insightful conversation, they explore the transformative power of feminist philanthropy, the importance of funding women-led initiatives, and the role of the Equality Fund in reshaping global investment strategies to drive gender justice. Tune in and be inspired by the challenges and exhilarating possibilities of building a truly equitable world!

People often come together in public spaces, and Jen Angel ensures that these areas are functioning at their utmost best to foster healthy, long-lasting connections. In this conversation, Douglas Nelson sits down with the CEO of Evergreen Canada as she shares their mission of building spaces centered on community building, social interaction, and diversity. Jen talks about the necessary leadership approach to get everyone on common ground and rowing in the same direction. She also discusses how public spaces can reach the fullest potential by making everyone feel welcomed and inspired.

What does it take to lead meaningful change in healthcare philanthropy? In this episode, we go behind the scenes of one of BC's premier healthcare foundations with two powerhouse leaders shaping the future of giving at VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation.Join us as we speak with Liza Jerome, Senior Vice President of Community Giving and Engagement, and Samantha Rogers, Director of Community Giving. Together, they offer a compelling look at the foundation's culture of collaboration, innovation, and impact—and introduce a pivotal new role: the Associate Director of Legacy Giving.You'll hear how this opportunity isn't just about fundraising—it's about shaping donor journeys, building deep community connections, and becoming a strategic voice in legacy and planned giving. Whether you're a seasoned development professional or curious about working at the intersection of philanthropy and healthcare, this conversation offers a rare peek inside a mission-driven team with heart and vision. Tune in to discover how you could be the next chapter in this legacy.

The Canadian Climate Institute is at the forefront of research and policy solutions for a sustainable future. In this episode, Douglas Nelson welcomes Rick Smith, President of the Canadian Climate Institute, for a compelling conversation on the future of climate policy in Canada. As a leading voice in environmental advocacy, Rick shares insights on the urgent actions needed to drive meaningful change, the role of innovation in sustainability, and how businesses and policymakers can collaborate for a greener future. Tune in and be part of a vital discussion that offers clarity and real-world solutions for one of our planet's most pressing challenges.

Ready for impact? Journey with us into the heart of the Pond-Deshpande Centre, where groundbreaking ideas ignite real-world change! In this captivating episode, Douglas Nelson sits down with the dynamic Vanessa Paesani, the Pond-Deshpande Centre's Executive Director, to unravel the powerful connection between innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact. Prepare to discover how they're fostering collaboration, sparking systemic shifts, and empowering the very individuals who are shaping a better tomorrow. Get ready for an engaging conversation packed with insights on leadership, resilience, and the incredible power of turning bold visions into lasting impact – you won't want to miss this!

Dive into the world of university development and philanthropic partnerships at the University of Victoria. In this Opportunity Spotlight episode, Christoph Clodius speaks with Jane Potentier, Associate Vice President, Alumni and Development, and Laura Milligan, Director of University Development. They discuss the new Associate Director, Philanthropic Partnerships position and UVic's strategic goals. Jane and Laura highlight UVic's unique strengths, commitment to indigenous communities, and leadership in climate research and integrated learning. Discover the collaborative culture and compelling opportunities that make UVic a standout institution and a place where individuals can make a real impact, especially in supporting the university's ambitious fundraising campaign and health and wellness initiatives.

CILAR isn't just a name—it's a movement. In this episode, Douglas Nelson engages in a compelling conversation with Serena Nguyen, Founding Executive Director of the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Advancing Respect (CILAR). Delve into the captivating story of CILAR's evolution into a dynamic platform actively shaping a better future. Serena candidly shares the ambitious vision, the challenges encountered, and the profound influence of their groundbreaking work, revealing how CILAR is actively molding innovation, cultivating genuine inclusion, and forging a new era of leadership. Prepare to be captivated by a story of dedication and real-world impact!

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.

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.

Community engagement and strategic communication are essential for building trust and a lasting reputation. In this episode, Aleece Laird, CEO of Amplify Consulting Inc., shares her insights on helping organizations connect with their stakeholders and turn feedback into meaningful change. She breaks down the three key steps to effective engagement: being brave enough to hear the hard truths, knowing what you want to learn, and being ready to act on the results. Aleece's thoughtful approach and deep experience working with nonprofits, foundations, and communities make this conversation a must-listen for leaders looking to build lasting impact.

At the heart of this episode is Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS), where Douglas Nelson talks with CAIS Executive Director Anand Mahadevan. Anand paints a vibrant picture of CAIS as a diverse archipelago united by excellence, continuous improvement, and a strong belief in student empowerment. He shares the unique qualities that define CAIS schools, emphasizing their focus on fostering confident, engaged learners. They discuss the challenges and opportunities facing independent schools, including funding, accessibility, and preparing students for an unpredictable future. Anand also reflects on the importance of storytelling, community, and the joy of learning within the CAIS network.

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.

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.

Brilliant minds, global challenges, collaborative solutions – these are the power of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR). In this episode, Douglas Nelson speaks with their President and CEO Stephen Toope who unveils how CIFAR is breaking down research silos to tackle the world's most complex problems, one brilliant collaboration at a time. He shares their approach to bringing together top researchers, fostering long-term partnerships, and empowering early-career researchers to pursue transformative knowledge. Dive into the innovative discoveries happening at CIFAR, from quantum physics to AI safety, and learn why advanced research is more critical than ever.

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.

Change is inevitable, but resistance does not have to be. In this episode, Douglas Nelson speaks with Jan Kaderly, author of Change Killers: Managing Resistance So People and Organizations Thrive. Together, they dive into the human factors that often stand in the way of organizational transformation and how to better navigate these obstacles with confidence. Jan also shares eye-opening insights on why resistance is built into organizations and how leaders unknowingly create their own roadblocks. Whether you are leading a nonprofit organization or at the helm of a corporate team, this conversation will challenge the way you think about change – and give you the necessary tools to make it happen more effectively.

Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities has been a cornerstone of youth support in Canada for two decades. In this episode, Douglas Nelson talks with Marco Di Buono, President of Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, about the organization's 20-year history of supporting Canadian youth through sport and recreation. Marco highlights the importance of centering youth voices in program design, Jumpstart's innovative approach to addressing mental health challenges in sports, and the development of a social value model that demonstrates a remarkable $13 return for every dollar invested in communities. Learn more about how Jumpstart is making a difference and get involved today!

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.

The social economy is a powerful driver for systemic change and inclusion in any community, and this is the central focus of this conversation. Douglas Nelson sits down with Victor Beausoleil, a dedicated leader in the social profit sector, to discuss innovative ways to build resilient communities. From addressing economic inequities to fostering collaboration, the executive director of Social Economy Through Social Inclusion (SETSI) shares his journey and insights on making a lasting impact. Together, they explore how meaningful relationships, bold ideas, and sustainable practices transform lives and create opportunities for those on the margins. Do not miss this inspiring look at how collective efforts can shape a better future.

Pearson College is more than just an educational institution—it's a global community committed to fostering peace and sustainability through diversity and opportunity. Host Christoph Clodius welcomes Jason McBride, Head of College at Pearson College, to discuss how this unique institution shapes young leaders from around the world. From its inspiring mission to its rich scholarship program, discover what makes Pearson College a standout in international education. Jason shares insights on creating impactful student experiences, embracing cultural diversity, and preparing future changemakers for a more connected world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about education and global impact.

Due to an earlier than planned release of this podcast, Seeds of Transformation: a loving framework for equity, reconciliation and belonging is not yet available. Watch Tamarack's social media, website and newsletters for its release soon, or reach out to tamarack@tamarackcommunity.ca if you'd like to be alerted when it posts.Tamarack Institute is a leading organization dedicated to making community action toward lasting societal transformation. Danya Pastuszek, its president and CEO, joins Douglas Nelson to share her bold vision to end poverty. Learn how Tamarack Institute is igniting real action within various communities and transforming systems to create a more equitable world. Danya also shares her insights on the importance of collaboration, challenging traditional narratives, and embracing transparency in leadership.

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.

This 2025 offers a lot of opportunities for social profit leaders to make a real difference in their communities and even the entire world. In this episode, Douglas Nelson dives deep into his expertise in the social profit sector to share valuable insights on elevating leadership and driving positive change. He shares seven powerful resolutions designed to help maximize your impact and lead your entire organization to success. From rethinking the end of your fiscal year, connecting with two donors per week, to slaying your lingering "zombie issues," Douglas offers practical advice and fresh perspectives that will truly inspire and empower social profit leaders everywhere.

What does it take to empower aspiring women leaders to pursue global education opportunities? The Ching Tien Foundation for Women is dedicated to this very mission, providing scholarships and support to help women access education and become leaders and changemakers. In this Opportunity Spotlight episode, host Christoph Clodius sits down with Ching Tien, the foundation's founder, and Ashleigh Au, the current part-time Executive Director, to discuss their vision and mission, their most impactful programs (including their global scholarship program and leadership development initiatives), and their exciting search for a full-time Executive Director to lead them into the future. Discover how the Ching Tien Foundation for Women is transforming lives and building a legacy of global impact by investing in women's education and fostering the next generation of female leaders.

Trust and reconciliation take center stage in this conversation between Douglas Nelson and Bruce Miller as they explore the transformative power of Indigenous people's resilience. Bruce, a leader with the Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund, shares how restoring fractured relationships and addressing chronic underfunding can unlock opportunities for Indigenous communities. Together, they discuss trust-based philanthropy, cultural safety, and the practical steps needed to move from acknowledgment to action. Whether you're interested in philanthropy or building inclusive relationships, this episode offers inspiring insights and actionable ideas.

Protecting our planet requires legal power, and Ecojustice is leading the charge. In this Opportunity Spotlight episode, host Christoph Clodius sits down with Tracy London, Executive Director of Ecojustice, to discuss the organization's critical work in defending nature, combating the climate crisis, and fighting for a healthy environment for all. Tracy sheds light on Ecojustice's impactful legal actions, collaborative partnerships, and the crucial role of philanthropy in driving their mission forward. Discover how Ecojustice is making a real difference in protecting our planet and how you can get involved.

Strong leadership and a commitment to community can transform lives, and this episode dives deep into the power of immigrant services to do just that. Douglas Nelson welcomes Jonathan Oldman, CEO of Immigrant Services Society of BC, to explore the vital work of supporting newcomers in building secure futures in Canada. Together, they discuss the challenges and triumphs of delivering resettlement and integration programs, adapting to policy shifts, and fostering collaboration within the social profit sector. Discover how values-driven leadership and a focus on organizational culture create lasting impact for individuals and communities alike.

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.

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.

In this episode, host Douglas Nelson welcomes Nicole Robson, President & CEO of the Surrey Hospitals Foundation, to discuss her journey in healthcare philanthropy and her mission to support the thriving Surrey community. Just seven months into her role, Nicole shares her vision for addressing critical healthcare needs in one of Canada's most diverse and rapidly growing cities. Learn how Nicole and her team are inspiring the community to invest in a future of excellence, bridging gaps, and ensuring every donation, big or small, makes a lasting impact.

Douglas Nelson speaks with Joy Bowen-Eyre, CEO of The Alex Community Health Centre in Calgary, Alberta. The conversation centers on community health and Joy's insights into leadership, collaboration, and the importance of serving Calgary's most vulnerable populations. Joy shares the inspiring story of how The Alex provides essential health, housing, and social services to over 15,000 individuals each year, while discussing the power of partnerships and servant leadership. Tune in to hear how Joy's approach is transforming lives and communities.

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.

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.

"Leading transformational change in mental health care—are you ready to be part of it?" In this episode, Christoph sits down with Jonny Morris, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association, BC Division (CMHA), to discuss the critical new role of Senior Director of Development and Communications. Jonny shares the vision behind CMHA's work, the personal passion that drives him, and why this inaugural position is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of mental health in British Columbia. Learn what it takes to succeed in this leadership role and be part of a team making a profound impact.

BabyGoRound takes center stage as Meghan Neufeld, Executive Director, shares the inspiring journey behind this innovative social-profit organization. Douglas explores how BabyGoRound provides gently used baby gear to low-income families in BC's Lower Mainland, easing household burdens and helping babies thrive. Meghan offers insights into the challenges of working with funders, expanding services, and navigating the growth of a unique nonprofit. Tune in to hear how BabyGoRound continues to transform lives while keeping essential items out of landfills.

In this episode, Doug Nelson interviews Cathryn Wilson, Executive Director of the BC Achievement Foundation. Cathryn shares her insights into the foundation's journey, the importance of storytelling, and how leadership plays a pivotal role in uplifting communities across British Columbia. From growing a team to fostering inclusion and recognition, this conversation delves into the strategies that have helped BC Achievement inspire excellence and drive impactful change. Tune in for a look behind the scenes of leadership in the nonprofit world.

Today, Douglas Nelson sits down with Britt Andersen, the CEO of the Canucks Autism Network. The conversation explores how the Canucks Autism Network is making a profound impact on individuals with autism, ensuring they are understood, accepted, and supported in every community space. Britt shares insights on the organization's growth, challenges, and the programs they offer, from sports and recreation to employment support. Tune in to learn about the vision driving this incredible work and how Canucks Autism Network is transforming lives.

Join Christoph Clodius as he sits down with Maria Howard, CEO of Family Services of Greater Vancouver, as they discuss a new opportunity - Director of Development. Maria delves into the agency's wide range of programs, from youth outreach and family preservation to victim support and financial literacy initiatives, all aimed at assisting the most vulnerable in the community. With nearly a century of dedication to social services, Family Services of Greater Vancouver helps clients reclaim their voices and navigate their paths to healing and stability. Tune in to learn how this impactful organization is transforming lives in the community.

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.

Dive into the inspiring story of the BC Centre for Ability, a beacon of hope for individuals with disabilities. In this insightful episode, Douglas Nelson speaks with Josh Myers, the Executive Director of the BC Centre for Ability, about the organization's journey from its origins in the 1960s to its current role in promoting inclusion and providing vital services. Josh details how the organization has adapted over the decades, including its expansion into new areas and its role in the Foundry Burnaby project, which aims to address mental health needs in the community. Don't miss this episode highlighting the BC Centre for Ability's crucial work and its positive impact on individuals with disabilities.

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.

In the first episode of season 9, Douglas Nelson sits down with Alex Wilson to explore the makings of an effective board retreat . Whether you're a CEO preparing for your retreat or a board member seeking insights, this conversation offers valuable advice and practical tips. Douglas Nelson and Alex Wilson share their experiences and strategies to ensure your next board retreat is not only successful but also sets the stage for a productive year ahead. Tune in to discover how to plan and deliver a board retreat that drives real results!

Breaking down barriers and building bridges, Take A Hike Foundation is a beacon of hope for at-risk youth. In this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, Christoph Clodius speaks with Larissa Hayes, Senior Director of Development, about a new role Director, Individual Giving. Larissa Hayes reveals how Take A Hike Foundation empowers vulnerable youth facing adverse childhood experiences by offering personalized support and integrating therapeutic sports with land-based learning. She also shares insights into the organization's growth, fundraising strategies, and future goals. Larissa also highlights alumni stories that show how Take a Hike helps young people overcome challenges and achieve their dreams. If you are looking for your next opportunity make sure to tune in!

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.

In this episode, Douglas Nelson, host, sits down with Jim Hayhurst, a former CEO, social profit founder, philanthropist, community leader, and advisor to discuss the importance of activating capital for social impact and the need for innovative approaches to philanthropy. Drawing from his experience in both the social profit and tech sectors, Jim highlights the value of embracing failure and normalizing risk when pursuing meaningful change. Jim's passion for catalyzing positive change shines through, offering inspiration and practical wisdom for us to make a difference in our communities.