Social Impact Leader

In this episode, Jeff chats with Chip Patterson, entrepreneur and friend of Plywood People, about his remarkable business journey. Chip shares stories of navigating the unexpected, trusting the process, and learning valuable lessons along the way. He delves into the art of motivating, inspiring, and guiding as a leader, while emphasizing the significance of giving back to the community that suppor...

In this episode, Jeff sits down with Josh Jackson, longtime friend and co-founder of Paste Magazine , to explore the dynamic intersection of technology, journalism, AI, and leadership. Josh shares the compelling journey behind founding Paste Magazine and the challenges that come with transforming passion into product. They discuss the highs and lows of leadership, particularly in challenging times...

Important topics are hit this week as Jeff interviews Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, author of "Sacred Rest" and creator of the Rest Quiz, on how to identify your rest needs and shift your perspective on fixing burnout. She offers insights on combating hustle culture, integrating restorative practices into your routine, and maintaining work-life balance to pursue your passions effectively. This is one...

This week's episode is an inspiring display of differing perspectives on the themes of trust, expectations, and generosity in life and in work. Author, speaker, and founder of Headbands for Hope, Jess Ekstrom, provides shocking personal anecdotes revealing unique insights about loss and new beginnings, motivation versus validation and giving versus receiving. Listen in to see how Jeff and Jes...

In this episode, we chat with Mel Miles, social impact leader, author, and co-founder of the OneThousandClub, about mental health, managing anxiety, and living peacefully. Mel discusses the importance of experimenting with life, investing in yourself, and how self-care boosts your contributions to others and the world. We also explore themes of resiliency, transformation, work-life balance, and ho...

This week Jeff speaks with long time friend and owner of 3 Parks Wine Shop, Sarah Pierre and explores the essence of self-care and authenticity while sharing the story behind her brand's image and values. She delves into leading with empathy, allowing her work to speak for itself, and navigating the complexities of notoriety in the wine industry. Follow along for insights on balancing perception,...

In this episode, we speak with Jill Savitt, President and CEO of The National Center for Civil and Human Rights , and a dedicated human rights activist. Jill delves into various forms of advocacy, exploring deeper layers of action and the search for real solutions. She discusses how to genuinely make a difference, measure and deliver justice, and effectively lead social activists. Additionally, Ji...

Tune in this week for an insightful episode with David Allman, Founder and Chairman of Regent Partners , as he discusses the intricacies and rewards of his organization's work. Explore themes of purpose, community development, and navigating uncertainties as David shares his journey in fostering socioeconomic growth as a non-profit leader working across the globe. The Social Impact Leader Podcast...

In this episode, delve into a compelling interview with Caitlin Crosby, CEO and Founder of The Giving Keys, as she discusses the profound impact of human connection and the resilience needed to stay true to one's mission amidst hardship. Caitlin emphasizes the importance of self-care in enabling meaningful giving, while also sharing insights on finding and maintaining sustainable team dynamics.&nb...

TW// Talk and mention of suicide.  Join us as we explore the journey of Gloria Umanah, creator of The Hope Booth, who envisioned a beacon of hope for those grappling with mental health challenges. Through personal anecdotes, Gloria shares the creation of her business and the real impact of extending compassion to others. Delving into themes of organizational goals, loneliness, and resilience,...

In this special episode, Jeff speaks with the author of “How to Buy Essentially Nothing for a Year,” Elizabeth Chai, about her story and path to minimalism. They discuss important topics like consumerism, usage, meaning, and what it means to live life well within your own frame of reference. Learn what ‘essential’ really means to you.  The Social Impact Leader Podcast explores the ambitious w...

This week, Sports and Performance Psychologist, Dr. Kensa Gunter speaks with Jeff about the concept of health; physical, mental, environmental, and how leaders can create a culture where wellness can flourish. They touch on managing expectations and compromises, the role of empathy in a productive workplace, and how important health is for showing up in the ways you want to. Gain personal and prof...

Heisman Winner and Executive Director of Desire Street, Danny Wuerffel joins Jeff in this week's episode with his personal experiences and insights into the importance of authenticity, community, and self-care as a leader and an individual. Danny shares his own anecdotes about burn-out, self-care, and how to navigate these challenges to better show-up in your organization. We invite you to listen...

This week Jeff catches up with old friend and KIVA co-founder, Jessica Jackley. Together they discuss the affordances, challenges and fulfillment that comes with social work. Hear how empathy, in and out of the workplace, and embracing the spontaneity of change in your career have helped Jessica prioritize as a Social Impact Leader.  The Social Impact Leader Podcast explores the ambitious wor...

Today, we hear from Chick-Fil-A’s Senior Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, Brent Fielder on leveraging your business and leadership to do good for your community while staying true to organizational values. Join Jeff and Brent as they discuss changing cultures, long-term goals, and not only investing in what you’re good at, but investing in what you can.  The Social Impact Lea...

Personal growth can be incredibly challenging, but also equally beneficial to the development of your business.  Laura Quick , founder of  Good Grit Magazine,  joins Jeff to discuss her struggles and successes as a leader and an individual, balancing work and life, empathy and productivity, and supporting herself and those around her. Take a break and reflect with this week’s e...

President and CEO of Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) , Jay Bailey, discusses his own calling to entrepreneurship, community development, and the role passion plays in your career. Together, he and Jeff Shinabarger dive into the systemic challenges black business owners and communities face in Atlanta, as well as the changing landscape of economics brought on by technological and...

In a candid and insightful episode of acclaimed filmmaker  Rudy Valdez  discusses his creation process and story. Valdez, a two-time Emmy Award winner, shares about his most recent project with Disney+,  Choir . The conversation is unique because Jeff and Rudy were childhood friends. Rudy shares how he won Sundance with a personal story "The Sentence", his personal journey of hard w...

Jamie Tworkowski, the founder of  To Write Love on Her Arms , shares his personal journey and mission. The organization helps people worldwide dealing with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. In this interview, Jeff Shinabarger digs deep into how relationships have impacted both of their nonprofit journeys and how community is what changes everything. You will love this...

We have officially changed the name and direction of this podcast and are excited to announce a new partnership with  WABE  and  The   NPR Podcast Network ! The Social Impact Leader  delves into the ambitious world of social entrepreneurship. Hosted by Jeff Shinabarger, Founder of  Plywood People , bestselling author and expert mentor to thousands of startup lead...

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Plywood Podcast featuring Wes Jones, the Co-Founder of Honeysuckle Gelato and a valued member of Plywood Place. Wes takes us on an insightful journey, sharing the story of how friends joined forces to create something truly sweet. From the humble beginnings of Honeysuckle to its evolution into a multi-location business, Wes dives into the challenges and dedi...

Today, we have a special guest, the renowned author, entrepreneur, and speaker, Dan Pallotta. Dan offers profound insights into the nonprofit sector, urging us to challenge the status quo and redefine the norms of how nonprofits operate. His thought-provoking ideas will undoubtedly inspire you to think differently and drive positive change in your community. Are you ready to embark on a transforma...

Welcome to the Plywood Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have the talented Amena Brown, a poet, writer, entrepreneur, and all-around creative, sharing her incredible journey with us. Amena's passion for writing was ignited by her mother's influence and her deep love for books. Her inquisitive nature led her to seize countless opportunities that have shaped her remarkable career. Tune in...

Jason DeMeo, Contemporary Artist, and Co-founder and CEO of We Are Curio, engages in a candid conversation with the Plywood team, delving into his journey as an entrepreneur, artist, and CEO. Jason discusses the impact of renovating one's life and embracing risks as essential ingredients for achieving success. Tune in to discover how this creative visionary manages the delicate balance between art...

Our team is really excited to tell you about an all-new community-building tool for the Plywood Community! Introducing Plywood+ In this episode, the Plywood team shares how to use the tool and what we are most excited about. Plywood+ is an online community where leaders connect and learn while growing together toward positive impact. 🚀Navigate leadership: Access tools, resources, and strategies f...