The Discovery Pod

The Sarah McLachlan School Of Music offers an inclusive barrier-free musical program to more than a thousand kids. Dan Cleland, Executive Director, joins Christoph Clodius , VP, The Discovery Group, to discuss an exciting new opportunity at this world-class organization. Now, to support the School’s planned growth and ensure its long-term sustainability, the Sarah McLachlan School Of Music is recr...

In this episode we dive deep into employment trends and best practices with Christoph Clodius , VP, The Discovery Group. Christoph delves into the issues of recruitment retention and career building while providing insights into what leaders should do to recruit qualified and committed employees and board members. Before you look for a job, listen to Christoph as he shares elements of what makes a...

In today's episode of The Discovery Podcast we bring you into the financial back office of a social profit organization. Douglas Nelson welcomes Omar Visram , the CEO and Co-Founder of Enkel Backoffice Solutions , to take us into the delicate and essential relationship between finance committees, board directors, CEOs and CFOs. Omar talks about how leaders in the social profit sector can better en...

For the past 23 years, CanadaHelps has been the leading online platform for charitable donations, assisting Canadians in discovering and supporting causes close to their hearts. Join Douglas Nelson in conversation with Duke Chang , the CEO and President of CanadaHelps , as they delve into the organization's pivotal role in the sector. Duke shares insights on fundraising strategies and the digital...

In this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, Adrienne Skinner , Executive Director of Development at UBC Okanagan , joins Christoph Clodius to discuss an exciting new leadership role - Associate Director of Development. UBC Okanagan campus has the remarkable advantage of having a world-class university in the Okanagan, an unparalleled experience in Canada. Based in Kelowna, is a comprehensive, resear...

In this episode, Teresa Virani , the Executive Director of Philanthropy, Nicola Wealth , discusses the main pillars of Nicola Wealth, the significance of corporate philanthropy, and the changes it has undergone. She emphasizes the importance of presenting a positive story to attract attention and donations for their cause and sheds light on how Nicola Wealth collaborates with the organizations it...

Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare philanthropy, visionary leadership serves as the compass towards a brighter and healthier future for all. Kelly Cole , President and CEO of Sunnybrook Foundation , joins Douglas Nelson , host, to share insights into her journey from post-secondary to healthcare. Together, they dive into Sunnybrook Foundation 's strategic growth plan and fundraising,...

On this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, Dominic Rockall , CEO, Clements Centre for Families, joins Christoph Clodius to discuss an exciting new role, Director of Development. Clements Centre for Families  is creating a community in which all individuals are included, valued, and celebrated, supporting people “from twinkle to twilight” - living with disabilities from birth through adulthood...

Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario is improving Ontario’s mental health and addiction services for youth by providing the right services at the right time through an impressive a network of 22 hubs. In this episode, Dr. Jo Henderson , Executive Director of Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario , discusses how the organization balances program fidelity and community customization. They share advice on dealing with...

Foundry is revolutionizing mental health treatment for young people by taking a holistic approach. In this episode, we have Dr. Steve Mathias , Executive Director, discuss the pioneering work of Foundry , a groundbreaking initiative in British Columbia that is leading the way of how young people receive mental health care. Dr. Steve Mathias speaks with Douglas Nelson , host, about the origins of t...

Reflecting on 2023: Where others see weakness, we find strength. In the social profit sector, challenges are opportunities, diversity is power, and authenticity builds lasting impact. Join us for a special year-end episode where our Host, Douglas Nelson , and our Director of Communications & Producer, Alex Wilson , take a look back at the remarkable year that was 2023. Together, they reflect o...

What does it take to build a next-level social profit organization? Dr. Chris Lambert , CEO and Founder of the Detroit based Life Remodeled , joins the podcast to share how he built an innovative organization through four essential elements: team unity, a compelling vision, a sound strategy, and efficient execution. In his book, Next Level Nonprofit , breaks down the strategies that he applied. Pr...

Created by the Houssian family in 2005, The Houssian Foundation  is one of the few private foundations that practices trust-based philanthropy. Douglas Nelson , host, is joined by Mira Oreck , Executive Director, to discuss how she is leading the foundation through the lens of trust and partnership. She talks about the foundation’s three portfolios and how they help raise awareness about soci...

Granting wishes isn't just about creating moments; it's about igniting a lifetime of hope, one heartfelt dream at a time. Join us in exploring Make-A-Wish Canada with Christie Buono , the dedicated Chapter Director of BC & Yukon. In this episode, Christie shares her magical journey from the high-stakes world of sports marketing to the heartwarming and impactful field of social profit. Christie...

Plastic waste is undeniably one of the greatest problems we are facing today. Despite this, efforts at mitigating this problem are uneven across the globe, especially when you factor in poverty levels. This dual problem of addressing plastic pollution and poverty makes the task even more crucial. This is where the Plastic Bank Foundation comes in. With its dual mission, they aim to address poverty...

Our youth is the catalyst for change. But what kind of future will we have if the catalyst of change grows in an environment flooded with insecurities, violence, and trauma? In this episode, Trenton Alenik , the CEO of Inspiring Children Foundation , joins Douglas Nelson , host, to share his personal story of overcoming adversity to becoming the CEO of the organization that helped him when he was...

The recently opened  Chinese Canadian Museum  in Vancouver celebrates the contributions and sacrifices of Chinese Canadian communities across the country. The museum’s CEO  Dr. Melissa Lee  joins Christoph Clodius to talk about their new role, the Director of Development. She explains the responsibilities of the person who will be hired for this position, as well as the require...

Dr. Jane Goodall is the iconic and inspiring figure behind Jane Goodall Institute Canada . As the Founder, she created a better, more sustainable world through a community-centered conservation program. Turning hope into action is Bella Lam , the CEO of Jane Goodall Institute Canada , who takes us into her role in leading an environmental organization so tightly connected to individuals. She share...

Leaders must learn how to conduct their meetings, breakouts, and training sessions not only in an engaging manner, but more importantly, in an effective way. Author and podcaster Beth Cougler Blom is here to discuss facilitating on purpose with Douglas Nelson . She explains how bringing such an approach to your team’s learning experience can revitalize leadership, making them more intentional and...

On this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, Christoph Clodius , host, is joined by Dr. Tahmeena Ali , Board Chair of   BC Family Doctors to discuss an exciting new opportunity, Executive Director. Dr. Tahmeena shares the organization's vision, mission and successes as well as the challenges the healthcare system faces. She also dives deep into the impact that the new Executive Director will be...

Turning dreams into reality: where determined optimism meets unwavering action. In this inspiring episode, we have  Nisha Anand  to dive into the world of  Dream. Org , a remarkable organization that’s making waves at the intersection of criminal justice reform and climate change. At the heart of this conversation is Nisha’s unique perspective on leadership. With a focus on fosterin...

The fight for reproductive justice is an ongoing struggle that continues to face political and philosophical challenges despite the rise of movements in support of this cause. As the Executive Director of  Planned Parenthood Toronto ,  Mohini Datta-Ray  is at the forefront of carrying out programs that aim to advance reproductive health and the overall well-being of young people. In...

A warrior’s quest to defeat mental illness can be quite tough, especially if you are a lone warrior. But having someone behind your back, providing you with the essential pillars of recovery makes a difference. Leading the quest is Keir Macdonald , the CEO of Coast Mental Health , who brings valuable insights into what it’s like to be a new CEO at one of BC's most respective social profit organiza...

Empowering African youth to thrive against all odds, Asante Africa Foundation pioneers change through education, leadership, and a shared vision for a brighter future. In this episode, Erna Grasz , CEO of Asante Africa Foundation, takes us through the evolution of an organization that's changing lives in East Africa, one community at a time. Erna reveals their pioneering model, a Global Alliance o...

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