The Discovery Pod

A community transforms and thrives when everyone's health are top priority. Strengthening that foundation enables children, families, and seniors to thrive in the future. In this enlightening episode, Heidi Worthington , CEO and President of YMCA BC , vividly illustrates efforts to create vibrant and healthy communities by bringing everyone equal access to health. Covering a broad spectrum of regi...

We are kicking off season 8 with a Canadian icon – the  Terry Fox Foundation . In this episode, we are joined by  Michael Rossi , the Chair of the Terry Fox Foundation , to discuss the foundation's enduring legacy and the remarkable impact it continues to make in cancer research and treatment. As an experienced leader in both the corporate and social sectors, Michael sheds light on the p...

JDRF has a bold vision of creating a world without suffering from Type 1 diabetes. It does this by funding world-class research that will lead humanity to better management of the disease. In this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, host Christoph Clodius is joined by JDRF Canada VP Development, Kim Lacombe to share JDRF's history, its vision and an exciting new role - Regional Director. The role of...

Through their unwavering commitment to fundraising for the betterment of healthcare in the South Okanagan region, the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation (SOS Medical Foundation) has bridged the gap between aspiration and realization, channeling our collective strength to build a healthier future for all. In this episode, Peter Steele, the esteemed Chair of the Foundation's board, takes...

Discover the inspiring world of Royal Roads University as your host Christoph Clodiu s sits with Rebecca Sharma , the Director of Advancement, to discuss the university's growth, it's ambitious plans and a new role - Manager, Major Gifts. Rebecca shares the dynamic team culture, transformative projects, and the crucial role of equity, diversity, and inclusion in creating an inclusive and diverse w...

The Director of Advancement at Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School will have the power to kindle the flames of opportunity, spark the spirit of innovation, and lead the way to a future where every student can reach their full potential. Today, we have a special guest Suzanne MacLeod , the Head of School at Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School joining host Christoph Clodius to discuss a new role to the scho...

It seems like it was just yesterday when the Discover Pod started and now, we’re down to the final episode of our seventh season! We have gained so much wisdom from our guests who have joined us from around the world sharing their insights, challenges, and successes. What better way to wrap up the season than to reflect on the lessons we have learned! In this special finale episode, Host Douglas N...

On this episode Mike Peters , the CEO of the International Paralympic Committee , joins host Douglas Nelson from Germany to explain the role that his organization plays in the world of sports and inclusion. Mike’s unique experience of being a former athlete and as a highly educated executive, has provided him with the leadership tools to create an exceptional organization. He shares his perspectiv...

In the social profit sector, there can be an aversion to the word “profit.” But this week’s guest on The Discovery Pod believes profit is a critical component in addressing societal issues that should not be ignored. Virginia Wilson , CEO of  Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong , shares how aligning profit with purpose is a better route for making systemic change. In this episode, she joins hos...

The social profit sector is the backbone of Canadian society. As its champion, Imagine Canada is committed to helping its leaders navigate the challenges and changes they face. In this episode, Bruce MacDonald , CEO of Imagine Canada , joins host Douglas Nelson as he delves into the state of the social profit sector in Canada. With years of experience, Bruce discusses the challenges facing leaders...

As the largest foundation in Canada and the fifth largest in the world, the Mastercard Foundation seeks a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper. With this ambitious mission, it may not come as a surprise to find an equally aspirational leader. In this episode, Douglas Nelson is joined by CEO and President, Reeta Roy , to tell us about the important work the Mastercard Found...

In this episode, Febe Voth , the Author of The Case for Your Cause , offers advice on messaging, storytelling, and writing a support case. She shares some examples to walk us through the framework she presents from her book. This episode is for individuals who need to craft a case as a tool to move donors and create a bigger impact on those who benefit from the work of the organization. Take notes...

The establishment of Canada's first Chinese Canadian Museum showcases how cultural institutions can uphold and honour the diversity of our communities. It shows the importance of representation in shaping our shared history. In this episode, Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee shares the significance of the Chinese Canadian Museum and her passion for startup organizations in the cultural space. As a female lea...

In anticipation of the Coronation of King Charles III, Douglas Nelson sits down with Farah Mohamed , CEO of the Prince’s Trust Canada . She talks about their development programs for veterans leaving active service and equity-deserving youth looking for employment. Farah explains how their work investing in these amazing people helps them pursue promising opportunities and serve society in fulfill...

Being in the social profit sector requires embracing the ever-changing needs of the community. You must be nimble in order to respond to create a bigger impact. Younger foundations have the advantage of embodying these qualities. They can navigate the present and future without the weight of history. One of the new entrants as a community foundation here in Canada is the  Toronto Foundation ....

“Mothers are the first teachers” - they are the initial figures in a child’s life who nurture and prepare them for the world. In this episode of Opportunity Spotlight,  Christoph Clodius  is joined by  Bruce Flexman  and  Julia Kim  Chair and Vice Chair, respectively, of  Mothers Matter Centre . Together, they share the important work being done across Canada in...

Leaders in social profit have a unique opportunity to drive positive change and create a better future for all. Through philanthropy and education, we can inspire the next generation of leaders to make a difference in the world and leave a lasting impact on our communities. In this episode, Douglas Nelson speaks with Dr. Jacline Nyman , Vice President of External Relations at the University of Ott...

Building a strong and inclusive community requires expanding our services to support all newcomers and to meet the evolving needs of those we serve, overcoming challenges with resilience. In this episode, we have Michael Itti , Executive Director of the Chinese Information and Service Center (CISC Seattle) in Seattle, Washington join us for a discussion on the evolution of social profits and adapt...

"As a fundraiser at a university, there's everything…It provides this incredible opportunity to be a matchmaker between the needs of an institution and the philanthropic aspirations and goals of donors." - Erin Morantz.   Erin Morantz , Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Engagement of Simon Fraser University , shares what it's like to build a coalition of collaboration and philanthropy fo...

In this episode, Christine McIver Founder and CEO of Kids Cancer Care Foundation , shares how the programs she started over 28 years ago has helped thousands of kids and families on their cancer journey. She provides some insights on how she leads and sets the standards on board governance. Leading a social profit organization can be challenging, but Christine always gets the job done. Be inspired...

As one of the largest serving agencies in Metro Vancouver, YWCA Metro Vancouver provides a wide range of services to help address the economic, social and physical challenges facing women. Erin Seeley , CEO joins host Douglas Nelson to share how the YWCA Metro Vancouver continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the region. With over 200 employees and 75 programs, Erin leads a large, d...

Building strong communities is key to driving better outcomes in the social profit sector. By bringing together essential partners, boards, and teams, we can create a unified force to make a meaningful impact in the world. In this episode, Zahra Esmail , the CEO of Vantage Point , shares her invaluable insights into leading communities in the social profit sector. Zahra emphasizes the importance o...

In honour of International Women's Day, Paulette Senior CEO of the Canadian Women’s Foundation joins the podcast to discuss empowering women to assert their rights and advocating for gender justice. Paulette shares the unique ways her organization have helped women from vulnerable sectors, as well as her career journey through her work in women’s shelters to leadership roles in the Canadian govern...

In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Alex Wilson , Director of Communications of The Discovery Group , sits down with Douglas Nelson to ask him questions submitted from our listeners. Doug shares the insights and wisdom that he has gathered over his 20 year career in the social profit sector. The two touch on the recession, donor communication and the best approach in recruiting and retaining...

On this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, we shine a light on the Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island with special guest Shelley Engelhardt , Director of Development. Shelley Engelhardt joins Christoph Clodius to discuss an exciting new leadership opportunity – Events & Annual Giving Manager. Listen as they delve into the details of the role and the critical work that the Children...