Claim OwnershipThe Discovery Pod
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© 2019-2025 Douglas Nelson, The Discovery Group
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The Discovery Pod features conversations with leaders in non-profit/social sector. Join former CEO Douglas Nelson as he talks with CEOs, Board Chairs, Founders and other senior leaders about how they got started in the sector, how they work with their boards, and what remains to be done. As Managing Director of The Discovery Group, a philanthropy and governance consulting firm based in Vancouver, BC., Doug understands the complexity of leading organizations and institutions and the challenges of aligning governance and philanthropic performance. Doug has been called a ‘fundraising phenom’ by the Vancouver Sun and ‘a true innovator for a sector that can do so much more.’ Learn from the brightest and the best in the industry so you can accomplish what is most important by tuning in to The Discovery Pod today.
317 Episodes
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The current landscape of mental health support in Canada is more critical and complex than ever, with Canadians continuing to struggle under economic pressures and global uncertainty. To explore the path forward, we’re joined by Akela Peoples, CEO of Mental Health Research Canada and a leader twice recognized as one of Canada’s most powerful women.In this essential conversation about the future of mental health leadership, Akela shares her insights on transforming the national approach to mental health. She emphasizes the urgency of collaboration among organizations, advocating for “authentic points of intersection” to achieve collective impact. Akela also discusses how leaders can foster a resilient workforce by embracing flexibility as a key element of mental wellness, drawing on MHRC’s experience of going fully decentralized in 2025, and the critical role of data and evidence-based digital solutions in meeting the country’s rising mental health needs.
The global landscape of humanitarian aid is facing unprecedented challenges, marked by increasingly complex, protracted crises and massive funding disruptions. How do organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), or Doctors Without Borders, navigate this new reality, especially when core principles like neutrality are tested and government support is pulled?In this powerful conversation, Sana Bég, Executive Director of MSF Canada, offers a compelling perspective on leading through global crisis and funding disruption. She details the profound ripple effects of crises and cuts—such as the disruption in USAID funding—even on independently funded organizations like MSF.Sana shares her insights on:The critical mission to “bear witness” to suffering, balancing impartiality with the responsibility to speak out.The moral hazards of having to stretch resources to fill gaps left by others, and challenging the assumption that “growth equals impact”.The role of “hopeful optimism” in leadership, and the urgent need to disrupt entrenched mindsets to ignite a new era of truly equitable humanitarianism.Dive into this essential discussion about strategic leadership, maintaining integrity under pressure, and how MSF Canada is mobilizing global action in a world that is attempting to normalize the removal of humanitarian norms.
Tired of working in silos? For over two decades, the Center for Social Innovation (CSI) has shown that collaboration—and the power of social capital—is the engine of change. In this deep-dive conversation, CSI Co-founder and CEO Tonya Surman shares the journey of building one of the world’s first co-working spaces—a home for changemakers where “the chaos is everywhere” and “the forks do not match.”Discover how CSI evolved from a simple idea about shared space into a pioneering Collaborative Infrastructure Organization (CIO), designed to build the trust, relationships, and social capital needed to tackle the world’s biggest challenges. Learn why Tonya believes the future of social impact lies in moving beyond convening to true collective action—and why investing in long-term infrastructure is key to creating regenerative, movement-building solutions.If you’re a leader, social innovator, or simply someone trying to make a difference, explore the power of intentional community design—and how strengthening social capital can shift the sector from scarcity to abundance.
In the world of sports leadership, few organizations embody dedication, impact, and pure joy like Special Olympics Canada. But what does it take to lead a movement of over 40,000 athletes and 20,000 volunteers across a country as vast as Canada?In this exclusive conversation, we sit down with Gail Hamamoto, CEO of Special Olympics Canada, to explore her leadership journey. Gail shares how she centers the athletes’ experience, not just on the field of play, but as a catalyst for health, employment, and inclusion across the entire community. Discover how Special Olympics Canada leverages a powerful Social Return on Investment (SROI) of 8.76:1 to transform “charity thinking” into “abundance thinking,” making a compelling case for investment, not just donation.Join us as Gail reveals the power of authentic storytelling, the surprising impact of their Healthy Athletes program, and why a culture rooted in joy and supported by a solid foundation allows her team to boldly say “yes” to new opportunities. This is a masterclass in servant leadership, abundance mindset, and building an organization where the ultimate metric of success is the life-changing impact on every athlete.
In the complex, high-stakes arena of environmental action, how do leaders sustain momentum when public attention shifts and funding remains a challenge? We sat down with Chris Severson-Baker, Executive Director of the Pembina Institute, a leading Canadian clean energy think tank, to explore the critical tension between deep, foundational research and the sustained, repetitive advocacy needed to drive policy change.For decades, Pembina has shaped Canada’s energy landscape, moving from proving the viability of clean tech to actively dismantling the barriers to a net-zero economy. Chris shares his candid insights on navigating the political headwinds, the necessity of integrated fundraising—especially in a competitive philanthropic space—and the surprising discipline required to repeat a message until it finally sticks.Whether you’re a non-profit leader, an advocate for change, or simply interested in how big-picture environmental goals translate into real-world progress, this conversation offers invaluable lessons on strategy, focus, and the art of leading with both science and conviction.
What does it take to build the right social impact partnerships? Douglas Nelson talks all about it with Sarah Saso, VP of ESG & Social Impact at Meridian Credit Union. She explains the importance of strategically aligning core business interests and maintaining open communication at all times in developing fruitful partnerships in the social profit sector. Sarah also talks about Meridian’s innovative programs focused on helping professionals build financial confidence and overcome economic barriers. Discover the right way to secure meaningful and long-term partnerships in order to move the needle on community impact.
A wish is far more than a fleeting moment of joy; it is a scientifically-backed medical intervention that can fundamentally alter a child’s healing journey. Meaghan Stovel McKnight, Chief Executive Officer of Make-A-Wish Canada, joins the conversation to dismantle the “last wish” myth and replace it with the Wishes are Medicine framework, which highlights the measurable clinical impact of hope on critical illness. Beyond the mission, she offers a candid look at leading a national transformation—moving the organization from a post-pandemic scarcity mindset to a culture of abundance by investing in technology, talent, and a “constellation of leaders.” From the logistical challenge of granting wishes in nearly 700 unique communities to the vulnerability required to lead from the C-suite, this discussion bridges the gap between high-level operational strategy and the raw, emotional heart of the social profit sector.
Nearly one in three Canadians reported having their human rights violated in 2024. Because of this alarming reality, the mission of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights has never been more important. Douglas Nelson sits down with Mena Gainpaulsingh, CEO of the Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, to share their fundraising efforts for this national institution fighting for survivors and bravely advancing women’s rights. Discover how they bridge the tension of raising money for a sensitive topic like human rights by grounding conversations in the fundamental principle that “everyone is born free and equal in dignity and rights”.
The landscape of local philanthropy and social change is constantly evolving, requiring organizations to innovate and adapt. Douglas Nelson has a great conversation with Dan Clement, President & CEO of United Way Centraide Canada, about the organization’s unique role as a “local impact, national platform” backbone for social good. Dan shares the three core pillars of their work—engaging Canadians, investing in frontline services, and community planning—and discusses how the movement is strategically renewing its business model to meet current challenges like the national housing crisis and shifting philanthropic trends. He also emphasizes the critical need for an “abundance mindset” within the social profit sector to drive resilient and long-term positive change across the country.
Navigating the complexities of fundraising leadership in a changing donor landscape requires both unparalleled expertise and a dedication to constant evolution. We sit down with Roger D. Ali, the second Canadian and current AFP Global Chair, to discuss his remarkable career and the key insights he’s gathered from the sector. Roger shares the biggest concerns he’s heard from AFP members, including the critical challenge of donor retention, the role of technology in a relationship-based field, and how to best equip the new generation of fundraisers. We also dive deep into the perils of transactional matching campaigns versus long-term stewardship, what it takes for a fundraiser to successfully transition into a CEO role, and Roger’s powerful leadership concept for uncertain times: “Leading Lightly.”
How do you maintain momentum after the record-setting success of a $600 million campaign? Learn the critical role of organizational readiness and strategic ambition in this master class on philanthropic leadership. Douglas Nelson sits down with Anne-Marie Newton, President & CEO of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) Foundation, who openly shares her experience navigating the transition from Chief Philanthropy Officer to CEO. She discusses how to successfully lead a team through the crucial “retool and refuel” phase that follows a major campaign, the importance of consistent, authentic donor stewardship, and how the Foundation partners with the hospital to drive system-wide advancements in mental health—the defining public health challenge of our time.
Osteoporosis may seem like a normal part of aging, but it is actually a sign of some internal problems that you must address at once. Dr. Famida Jiwa, President and CEO of Osteoporosis Canada, joins Douglas Nelson to share how they are raising awareness about the wrong perceptions about bone health and fractures. She discusses how their team balances real science with real human stories, the unique challenges of fundraising for a national healthy charity, and what it takes to lead with a strong identity and purpose.
The continuous challenge of balancing advocacy, fundraising, and programs is a fundamental tension for leaders in the international development sector. Douglas Nelson explores this dynamic with Allison Alley, President and CEO of World Vision Canada, who oversees efforts to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Allison shares her unique perspective on leading through seismic shifts in the sector, detailing World Vision’s holistic and child-focused approach that encompasses emergency relief, long-term development, and critical advocacy work. She discusses her “bridge year” strategy to ensure the organization remains centered, clear, and cohesive, and reveals how fostering an attentive, “non-anxious presence” guides her leadership and commitment to continuous, incremental improvement.
Uncover the essential nonprofit fundraising insights needed to anchor your organization in abundance for 2026 and beyond. In a special “Ask Doug Anything” session, Douglas Nelson sits down with Samantha Gayfer, Director of Strategic Development at The Discovery Group, to tackle the sector’s most persistent challenges. They dive into critical shifts in donor behavior trends, discussing the intergenerational wealth transfer and the true “next generation” of donors. Doug outlines the most common campaign readiness gaps, emphasizing the focus on top gifts and mid-level giving, and dissects the “great irony” of internal structures that undercut fundraiser success. Finally, they cover strategies for CEOs to navigate board tension and foster deeper board engagement in philanthropy, providing clear guidance for leaders on shaping their next steps.
Hogan’s Alley Society (HAS) is dedicated to advancing the social, political, economic, and cultural well-being of the Black community in Metro Vancouver. Douglas Nelson sits down with their inaugural executive director, Djaka Blais, who talks about their place-making efforts focused on nonprofit housing development and community engagement. Djaka discusses how they embrace Afrocentric governance principles to push their efforts forward and explains how their Community Land Trust model works. She also breaks down the benefits of fostering a culture of care, which helps her team avoid burnout and remain committed to their core mission.
Whenever the economy stumbles or takes a moment to take a breath, the social profit sector gets concerned about what will happen with corporate philanthropy. Douglas Nelson delves into the current state of corporate partnerships in Canada with Adam Starkman, President and CEO of Canada’s Children’s Hospital Foundations. He offers valuable insights on building and driving meaningful change within your own organization while navigating the ever-evolving landscape of corporate philanthropy. Adam also emphasizes the importance of taking an intentional approach to culture building to unlock stability and growth in your team.
Raising money is one of the lifelines of any hospital foundation. It ensures the organization’s longevity and capacity to save many lives. Douglas Nelson offers a glimpse of what it takes to build successful fundraising models with Jennifer Molloy, CEO of the Royal University Hospital Foundation. She shares the challenges and successes of raising money for the largest clinical teaching and research hospital in Saskatchewan. Jennifer delves into the importance of building meaningful relationships with donors and engaging with the next generation of philanthropists. She also talks about their strategies for recruiting and retaining strong teams who can continue crafting and pushing for effective fundraising programs.
To make the social profit sector more equitable, inclusive, and effective, an optimistic vision from a committed leader is necessary. Tanya Rumble, executive director of the Toronto Metropolitan University, takes her social profit leadership approach to the next level to make this dream a reality. She joins Douglas Nelson to share how she promotes inclusive fundraising practices and restorative philanthropy to foster collective community-centered action. Tanya also talks about the importance of constantly revamping your gift acceptance policies to avoid fishy donations and dismantle outdated fundraising practices once and for all.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder which is growing quicker in Canada than many other countries and Jessica Diniz leads the charge in unlocking brand-new health breakthroughs to accelerate the pace of its research. She joins Douglas Nelson to share her experiences and insights as the president and CEO of Breakthrough T1D, one of Canada’s top national health charities dedicated to treating Type 1 Diabetes. Jessica talks about what it takes to lead a distributed team of a global organization and how to maintain a strong community of donors. She also discusses how COVID-19 vastly changed their revenue sources and how she guides her team in staying open to constant change.
Transforming crisis into growth takes bold vision and courageous leadership. Katherine Hay reveals how Kids Help Phone redefined itself as an innovation-driven, data-powered mental health organization. By shifting from a traditional phone service to a leading digital platform, KHP embraced technology to protect its mission and stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. This forward-thinking approach allowed them to scale from 1.9 million interactions to over 22.5 million, maintain quality care during explosive growth, and prepare for challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Katherine also shares lessons from key missteps, why investing in people is critical, and how partnerships—not competition—drive impact. If you want to learn how strategic innovation can future-proof your organization, this conversation delivers powerful insights.
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