The Discovery Pod

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!

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...