The Make Good Project with Sandra D'Souza

We talk about purpose driven organizations all the time on this podcast, but how can a regular organization transition into a more purpose driven one? And how do you know when you have become a purpose driven organization? In this episode, I'll be addressing this matter of purpose, becoming more purposeful and even how it relates to employee engagement and your effectiveness as a business. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3xUHNKl 

Does your business or organization have what it takes to keep employees around long-term? This is a really important topic to discuss, especially in today's job market where more and more people are resigning and changing jobs for something that feels “right”. In this episode, I'll share some key points that will affect your staying power and what you can do to keep (the best) employees working for you. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3mGBV20

I read a few things recently that raised some interesting questions regarding corporate activism. Increasing numbers of people seem to be showing that they expect CEOs to help shape policy discussions and speak out about controversial issues, so today, I'll share how things are changing in business and activism. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3LG80kH

For those feeling burnt out, unfulfilled, and lacking in purpose, a move into the non-profit sector often seems like a positive shift. I have talked with a few senior people in my network lately who have been considering new opportunities in this sector, and in this episode, I'll be sharing about that. Regardless of your motivations for wanting to transition from corporate to non-profit, there are some important things to know and keep in mind before making the leap. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3L7rmzI

How do we create workplaces that people want to be part of? LinkedIn Talent Solutions recently published a report on the Reinvention of Company Culture as part of their 2022 Global Talent Trends series, and in this episode, I'll go over the three main things impacting company culture. I also cover how we can use this information to create more successful and impactful companies. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3jh4zVG

Fraud and misrepresentation are unfortunately common problems in the social purpose space. As we wrap up Fraud Awareness month in Canada, I think it's important to touch on how to better ensure that companies are actually doing the social or environmental things they claim to do. The popularity of social purpose in business has brought a lot of great changes—and it has also turned into a marketing ploy, so it's important that we know how to tell who is legit. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3NiOz3i

This year, as of January 31st, it was reported that $34 million has already been lost to fraud—just here in Canada! Given this staggering statistic (and that it also happens to be Fraud Prevention Month), I want to share some ways that small businesses can set themselves up to minimize the risk of fraud in their organizations. Anyone can be affected by fraud, so listen in to hear what you need to be aware of on both a personal and professional level. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3I9zq0h

As we witness the trucker convoy happening, the strong views on all sides, and the issues arising over monetary or vocal support, it's evident that things like this have an effect on reputation. So, in this episode, I'll discuss how a business or social enterprise can avoid or minimize reputational risk. From assessing the situation to putting in place procedures, I'll share some tips on how to not get caught up in something that could negatively affect your business. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3JWkwfj

I started a discussion about The Great Resignation back in June, and today I'll be continuing that conversation with some new updates. If you missed the first one, be sure to go back and check out episode 19 to get the big picture of this issue. This time, I'll share some more current data with you and the changes that have been affecting both the workers who left and the workers who stayed. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3uOoHpa

Is purpose-driven capitalism worth it? Will pursuing a purpose for your business beyond profit make a difference? I recently read two interesting articles that argued the opposite sides of these questions, and I wanted to bring that discussion to you today. It's truly an interesting dilemma when purpose seems to be able to make or break a business. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3reJujq

I don't usually talk much about my day job on this podcast, but given the time of year and some of the discussions I have been having over the last few weeks, I thought it would be worthwhile to do a quick episode on how to work with me—or with recruiters in general—from both the employer/client perspective and from the employee/candidate perspective. If you're interested to hear how a recruiter could help you find the best options out there, then this episode is for you. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/33AIVqI

A pandemic project took me out of my comfort zone and helped me chase some important goals. That project just so happened to be this podcast! So, in this first episode of the new year, I'm going to review 2021 and the incredible lessons I learned alongside the inspiring and uplifting guests who joined me on the show. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3EQLZfx

At the end of the year, I usually sit down and start working ahead at creating a new plan for the coming year. Many of us can benefit from a little more discipline, especially after the unpredictability we've seen due to the pandemic. So, in this episode, I'll be sharing what an annual plan consists of, how to build your own annual plan, and tips for troubleshooting and moving forward with your plan effectively. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3p08LNc

How you handle change, uncertainty, and ambiguity has a big effect on your personal life and your business. So, in this episode, I'm breaking down the concept of the Adaptability Quotient (AQ) and how it can help us in all areas of life. Knowing how to determine your AQ—or someone else's—and being able to develop and grow your AQ is extremely important in today's world, so make sure to tune in. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3DvWR1O

This is an exciting week because the first ever Propelling Purpose Summit was held in Canada. This summit comes from The Social Purpose Institute and aims to focus in on learning about, growing, and building the social purpose movement in Canadian businesses. I will be sharing some exciting information and details on this new opportunity and my thoughts on where it's headed. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/32efhXI

November is Financial Literacy Month in Canada! On this podcast, I usually like to highlight business owners who believe business is a force for good and promote the message of profits and purpose, but today's episode is all about profits. The financial side of business is key to success, so I'm going to give you insight into how you can build and share financial literacy within your business and community. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/31HWlAx

October is small business month in Canada, so it's a great time to recognize the contributions that the Canadian small business sector makes to the overall economy, as well as the local impact they make on their communities. In this episode, I'll be taking you on a quick dive into the world of small business and how it has been such a pivotal part of Canada's economy and culture. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3Ghurek

Today, you'll get to hear from the awesome mother-daughter duo Kim Hickman and Katie Thompson, who are the masterminds behind DIOSA Designs Inc. They share their passion for supporting women and how they do just that with thoughtfully designed, multi-functioning backpacks specifically designed to serve women. They also share many of the lessons and insights they have gained through building the business and finding ways to make an impact on a global scale. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3iBU7IE

As an executive recruiter, I've been having a lot of conversations with parents who are worried about their kids and what the job market will look like for them. So, in this episode, I'm going to share my thoughts on the prospects for careers and the job market for Gen Z, including the paths I've seen people taking to succeed, the common themes amongst successful students, and the opportunities that I see opening up. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3nql5pP

Abygail and Ashleigh Montague are two of the three sisters who founded Blk Owned HAMONT, an open resource to find and support black-owned businesses in the Greater Hamilton, Ontario area. Their mission is to celebrate, showcase, explore, and support black-owned businesses by creating a sustainable and thriving black-owned economy. In this episode, we're diving into what prompted the launch of Blk Owned HAMONT and how it has grown to go above and beyond just promoting black-owned businesses. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/2WI7XRK 

Social procurement is something I've touched on before, but in this episode, I'll be going into more detail about how it is done in various industries. You'll get a glimpse of what social procurement looks like when it comes to different areas of business and get insight into how it can have a huge impact not only on your business, but also on the world. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3iPLHhn

Today, I am joined by the founders of SideBiz Studio, an online marketplace that showcases products and services offered by the Canadian Arts community. Kelsey Verzotti and Jacob Sheffield started SideBiz just over a year ago, and in this episode, they share how they are encouraging it to evolve as a marketplace and a business. Listen in as Kelsey and Jacob give some great insight into how they have navigated the hurdles of growing a new business during a pandemic. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/2VjMfmj

There's a world of opportunity to rethink and redesign the way we make things. Unlike the current wasteful industrial model, a circular economy aims to redefine growth, focusing on positive society-wide benefits. Basically, the idea is to eliminate waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the design stage. So, in this episode, I want to share with you some of my recent findings on the topic. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3hW2Hli  

Our guest today is Renee Devereaux, who serves as Executive Director at EDGE, the impact entrepreneurship hub at Sheridan College. EDGE, in collaboration with partners, provides new and growing ventures with mentorship, learning programs and support to access funding. In this episode, Renee discusses why she sees entrepreneurship as a powerful tool for shaping a more sustainable and prosperous society—and her advice for becoming a more impactful leader. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3ADvpPn 

While this podcast is typically focused on purpose driven, for-profit businesses, I am currently working on a project geared toward non-profit organizations, and the concept of purpose is relevant there, as well. I came across an article entitled “The Four Principles of Purpose Driven Board Leadership,” and one of the main questions asked is whether non-profit boards (as they exist today) are equipped to govern the social good organizations for which they are responsible. So in this episode, I will be going over the research I found in relation to this question so we can draw up a conclusion of our own. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3dDXGvh  

We often discuss finding purpose within your business, but what about the desire to find purpose in your personal life too? After the year we have had, a lot of people are re-evaluating what is important to them—where they want to reside, the kind of work they pursue, and the people they surround themselves with. So in this episode, I'll be discussing two articles I recently read that verbalize my own feelings about what I think will change in the coming years. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3vEtiqS  

As the world begins to come out of lockdown and things start opening up, it's worthwhile to take a moment and think of all the local small or medium businesses that have struggled throughout these tough times. Now that we can actually go places again, at least in limited numbers, we need to make an effort to actively support these local businesses. So in this episode, I will be sharing how I have supported local businesses throughout this pandemic and how you can implement this into your daily life too. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3zjnwxN 

Big lofty goals to change the world are admirable, but if you aren't creating a healthy workplace for your employees, does it even matter? Today we will be discussing how organizations can define purpose by creating a healthy workplace. To share her expertise in this area is Liza Provenzano, founder and principal consultant of SparkHR. In this episode, she will be describing steps your company can take now to make the biggest difference. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3urHm6k 

As I have mentioned before, I work as an executive recruiter. If there is one thing that is true for every position where you are working with people, it is that you can't prepare for everything. However, with the right strategies in place you are more likely to attract the right candidates. So, in this episode, I want to share some insights for hiring and interviewing candidates as well as how to clearly define your expectations. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3brdekT 

Today we will be taking a different approach to this podcast. Tracey Bissett, President and Founder of Bissett Financial Fitness, the host of the Young Money podcast and my friend, is going to be interviewing me to get a better sense of who I am and how this podcast came to be. In this episode, you will hear me discuss everything from my favorite childhood memories to my most memorable academic accomplishment growing up. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3b4mr2C 

No one has ever said creating and running your own company is easy. In many ways, the current beliefs around entrepreneurship are unfathomable compared to previous generations. No one knows this better than Sathish Bala, serial entrepreneur and CEO of Bala Group Inc. In this episode, he shares his advice for anyone looking to follow their passions and start up a business, as well as why it is okay to fail. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3u4f0Q6 

While things seem to be improving in many ways, there are still a lot of challenges out there and the world is certainly not back to business as usual. A lot of businesses are still struggling to stay afloat, and people aren't sure what their jobs are going to look like, or if they are going to have jobs in a few months. So, in this episode, I will be giving you an update on what is happening behind the scenes as my community continues to fight through this pandemic. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3tCnApc

Joining an NFP Board should be more than a resume-building exercise. Unfortunately, that is the main motivation for many and people often forget about the extra time, money, and resources that come with the commitment of being a board member. But if you are not passionate about it, it can become overwhelming very quickly, so in this episode, I want to discuss the nine key roles that are consistent across all NFP Boards to help you better prepare yourself for what may be expected of you if you so choose to go down this road. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3fZaFcL 

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) is a CEO-led organization of almost 200 of the world's most forward-thinking companies working together to accelerate the transition to a sustainable world. In 2010, the WBCSD published their original Vision 2050 that laid out a pathway to a world in which 9 billion people are able to live well, within the limits of the planet by mid-century, and they have since updated it to provide more guidance. In this episode, I will be going over what needs to change for us to reach our sustainable goals, including adjustments to capitalism and how companies are being monitored. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3rIFYuY 

There's no question that the pandemic has changed our opinions in a lot of different areas, and one area, in particular, is that of the traditional workplace. A lot of us are wondering what will happen when the pandemic is under control and we start thinking about going back to normal. In this episode, I'm diving into the results of some notable surveys that asked employees how the last year of remote work has been for them, sharing some things that organizations are doing to make a hybrid workplace a reality.  You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3lFLTzy

You've probably heard me mention SheEO on every episode so far, but there's a reason for that! It's an amazing organization, and today I'm deep-diving into what SheEO is and how I became involved as an Activator five years ago. Listen in as I share how SheEO is impacting the lives and businesses of female entrepreneurs, my favorite SheEO ventures, and the impact they are having in their communities—and the world at large. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3euxSmo

We all know that strong, functioning teams are the building blocks of successful organizations. But what makes for an effective team? And how do you go about building a good one? In this episode, I'm answering these important questions and sharing what makes for a great team, as well as what you need to have in place in order to build that team in the first place. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3kNCc1a

2020 was a crazy year, and it sparked a lot of change in the way we go about our lives and our thoughts on the bigger world from a social and environmental perspective. Responsible investing is gaining more momentum as people aim to “put their money where their values are.” With that in mind, Elyse Crowston joins me today to talk about why impact investing is important to her and why the rest of us need to care. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/2NhpvzB

Many people are starting businesses these days to not only turn a profit, but also to be a force for good in the world. These entrepreneurs are typically called “impact entrepreneurs,” and in this episode, I'm diving into why wealth-creation and making an impact don't have to be mutually exclusive. Listen in as I share why the perception of “purpose-driven” businesses needs to change to better reflect the reality of what makes a business impactful. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/2NgAFnN

2020 was a year that changed all of our lives in many ways we will never forget. Businesses have also had to adapt, and the way they report and manage their environment, social, and governance (ESG) impact and activities has become more of an issue for the average consumer than in the past. Here to discuss why companies of all sizes need to be thinking about how to incorporate strong ESG principles into their day-to-day operations is Dirk Baerts, Founder and CEO of I2ACT Canada. Listen in as we dive deep into who ESG affects most in a company and why it is so relevant in today's world. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/39HT0CZ 

Anu Bidani is the CEO of STEM MINDS, a company that focuses on empowering youth to become fearless leaders by developing agility and a love of learning through STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). She believes in creating our future leaders, game-changers, and problem-solvers to build a better, more agile society for future generations. Today Anu joins the show to share the importance of staying aligned with the ever-evolving and ever-changing technology advancements and how she is helping young children prepare for a brighter future. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3a89Utu 

Entrepreneurs are starting more and more businesses with some kind of social, environmental, or community purpose, where they can do good in the world while still making money. One of the keys to running a profitable and purpose-driven business is being able to track and manage the money that is coming in. So today, Sandra speaks with Tracey Bissett, Founder of Bissett Financial Fitness Inc. and an expert on financial wealth, about the biggest mistakes companies make in terms of profitability versus cash flow—and how to avoid them. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/39IN4bM  

As you may be aware, there is an accelerating momentum around businesses becoming a force for good. Becoming a certified B-Corp is one of the ways that companies are making it known that they want to be a positive force, where profit meets purpose. Today Sandra speaks with Anne Cesak, the Organizational Connection Strategist and Founder of the Continuous Connection System, about how these organizations can increase their chances of being successful in their mission of connecting with their employees and customers in meaningful ways. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3nQRMJu 

Welcome to The Make Good Project podcast, the show that explores the people and trends that are shaping the purpose-driven landscape. Each week, your host Sandra D'Souza will interview influencers and leaders in this space who are making a difference in their communities and the world. In this inaugural episode, Sandra speaks with April Morganti, Executive Director at Advanced Gerontological Education (AGE), about her position with AGE and what working for a social enterprise truly entails. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3sz0lw6 

Listen in with Sandra D'Souza for a hint of what's to come from The Make Good Project podcast! Sandra D'Souza was inspired by the book "What Color is Your Parachute" to take a deeper look into her career and what she had to offer the world. Sandra came across Social Enterprise and aligned very much with this concept... businesses and people who run them that have specific social objectives which serve their primary purposes. Sandra was inspired to get these Do Good/Feel Good/Make Good stories out into the world and thus The Make Good Project with Sandra D'Souza was born. Join Sandra for interesting, inspiring conversations with top social entrepreneurs and business leaders along with practical business tips to create (or transition) your business into a Social Enterprise serving the common good.