The Art of Good

In this episode of The Art of Good, I sit down with Brad Calhoun, a man whose life journey has spanned acting, ministry, academia, and now psychology. Brad shares his fascinating story—growing up in a family deeply rooted in service, navigating careers in film, faith, and education, and his ongoing pursuit of a PhD in psychology.Together, we explore the science behind doing good—why acts of kindness and service positively impact both the giver and the receiver, and how behavioral psychology supports the idea that giving is essential for well-being. 00:00 Introduction and Mission00:18 Meet Brad Calhoun01:49 Brad's Upbringing and Family Values05:33 College and Career Path10:17 The Intersection of Faith and Acting14:20 The Science of Doing Good19:47 Behavior and Cognitive Therapy23:27 Encouraging the Next Generation36:40 The Importance of Mental Health40:27 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenkaCheck out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/Follow Brad on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/P3flvIvVq6Ul9CHoba5sAztRsDh2Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ "You can’t just put someone in housing and expect them to get better. They need community, support, and purpose." Today, we have an incredible conversation lined up with my good friend Brian Ulf. Brian is the CEO of SHARE!, the Self-Help and Recovery Exchange, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing housing and self-help support for people in need. But before taking on this role, Brian was one of Los Angeles’ top commercial real estate brokers.During our conversation, Brian shares his personal story of growing up in a high-pressure environment, struggling with addiction, and ultimately finding recovery. He talks about his passion for helping others, the importance of self-help, and how SHARE! is making a real impact by providing immediate housing and peer support. If you're looking for an insightful conversation on transformation, leadership, and making a difference, this is the episode for you.00:00 Introduction00:47 Meet Brian Ulf07:25 Struggles and Turning Points09:08 Brian's Involvement in Nonprofits14:26 Transition to CEO of SHARE!19:47 The Mission and Impact of SHARE!26:23 Building Social Connections Through Shared Activities27:03 Promoting Self-Help and Support Groups27:55 Collaborative Housing and Its Impact28:31 Challenges and Adaptability in Nonprofit Work30:16 Understanding and Leading with Empathy35:56 Funding Streams and Strategic Pivoting38:01 Highlighting Other Nonprofits42:28 Support During Disasters44:56 Final Thoughts and EncouragementConnect with the causes that mean the most to Brian: Homeboy Industries: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-4800735West Coast Care: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/20-5340904 Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenkaCheck out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/Follow SHARE! On Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-6092809-1Check out SHARE! on: https://shareselfhelp.org/Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ Branding is more than a logo – It’s about awareness, perceived quality, associations, loyalty, and a clear value proposition. In this episode of The Art of Good, I have an incredible conversation with entrepreneur, philanthropist, and branding expert RJ Murray. RJ shares why branding is much more than just a logo and how nonprofits can leverage brand strategy to elevate their mission. Whether you’re leading an organization, sitting on a board, or simply passionate about making a difference, RJ’s insights will help you improve your communication strategies.  00:00 Welcome 00:30 Guest Introduction: R.J. Murray 01:26 R.J.'s Background and Family Influence 04:53 College Years and Early Career 07:21 Acquiring and Running Murray Brand Communications 09:16 Branding Essentials for Nonprofits 19:08 Key Questions for Nonprofit Leaders 29:31 Importance of Social Media in Branding 33:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with the causes that mean the most to RJ:  Salvation Army: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/94-1156347 American Red Cross: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/53-0196605  St. Jude Memorial Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3607229  Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Follow Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-1648180 Check out RJ on: https://murraybrand.com/ Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  In this episode of The Art of Good, I’m thrilled to sit down with Ronnetta Johnson, CEO of Waymakers, a transformative nonprofit based in Orange County, California. With decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Ronnetta has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families overcome challenges, find hope, and build better futures. Our conversation spans Ronnetta’s inspiring journey—from growing up in the Rocky Mountains and discovering her passion for service to her current role leading a 368-member team at Waymakers. Ronnetta shares insights about the power of community, the importance of personalized support, and how nonprofits can embrace change and technology to amplify their impact. 00:00 Introduction and Mission Statement 00:21 Meet Ronnetta Johnson: CEO of Waymakers 02:57 Early Career and Inspiration 04:36 Joining Waymakers and Career Growth 09:18 Waymakers' Mission and Impact 16:41 Challenges and Leadership Insights 28:59 The Importance of Technology and Community Support 34:07 Conclusion and Call to Action Connect with the causes that matter most to Ronnetta: Fieldstone Leadership Network: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/33-0103025  OneOC: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-2021700  Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Follow Ronnetta on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3167866 Check out Ronnetta on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnetta-johnson-82aba98/ Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  There’s power in loving what you do. In this episode of The Art of Good, I have the honor of sitting down with Rich Lyons, the Chancellor of UC Berkeley. Rich is an economist, an academic, a musician, a father—and above all, a visionary. From his early days growing up in Los Altos to his groundbreaking work shaping the culture at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, Rich shares insights about leadership, resilience, and how UC Berkeley fosters resourcefulness, and a sense of agency in its students. His reflections on “confidence without attitude” and “questioning the status quo” show why Berkeley stands out as an institution. 00:00 Introduction 00:29 Meet Rich Lyons 07:17 Returning to Berkeley: A Dream Come True 09:07 The Unique Culture of Haas School of Business 12:53 Berkeley's Commitment to Free Speech 15:00 Institutional Neutrality and Reinvention in Education 23:21 The Importance of Optimism and Empathy 26:38 Balancing Leadership and Presence 33:15 Embracing Technology in Nonprofits 35:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Check out Rich on: https://haas.berkeley.edu/faculty/lyons-richard/ Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  This week on The Art of Good, I had the absolute privilege of speaking with John Shertzer, the Executive Director of the Medal of Honor Foundation. Let me tell you, this conversation is one for the books. John is a passionate nonprofit leader, a community builder, and someone deeply committed to shaping lives of honor and service. Together, we explored the transformative power of storytelling, the humbling experiences of working alongside Medal of Honor recipients, and how nonprofits can stay true to their mission while evolving to meet the needs of future generations. Support the Causes that matter most to John Shertzer: The Gary Sinise Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/80-0587086  Tunnel to Towers: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/02-0554654  Bob Woodruff Family Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/26-1441650  00:27 Guest Introduction: John Shertzer 01:06 John's Early Life and Influences 03:36 Leadership and Compassionate Skills 05:24 Journey to Nonprofit Career 09:13 Medal of Honor Foundation: Mission and Impact 13:40 Stories of Valor and Humility 17:02 Challenges and Vision for the Future 24:25 Encouragement for Nonprofit Leaders 27:21 Importance of Technology in Nonprofits 29:24 Recognizing Other Great Organizations 31:47 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka Send John an Email: info@starfishapp.com  Follow John Shertzer on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/mohf Check out John on: https://www.cmohs.org/foundation/overview Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  In this episode, I sit down with Fatima Djelmane Rodriguez, the powerhouse CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California. Fatima’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—starting as a passionate volunteer and development associate, she has risen to lead one of the largest chapters of RMHC in North America. We discuss her early days in the nonprofit world, the pivotal moments that shaped her path, and her innovative approach to leadership and fundraising. Fatima opens up about the challenges of balancing family and a demanding career, how her spiritual and cultural influences drive her mission, and her commitment to empowering underserved communities.  Support the causes that matter most to Fatima:  Proyecto Pastoral: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3213958  Homeboy Industries: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-4800735  Dolores Huerta Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/91-2145992  YMCA: https://www.ymca.org/  Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern CA: https://rmhcsc.org/;  https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3167869  Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka  Send us an email: info@starfishapp.com  Follow Fatima Djelmane Rodriguez on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/kK3hKUh9T3YFbmIuxdGDSMcLtvM2 Check out Fatima on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatimadr Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  In today’s episode, I had the honor of sitting down with my longtime friend, Michael Young. Michael’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary, and I’m so excited to share his inspiring story with you. From a 10-year career in the NFL to leadership roles with the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Dodgers, to serving as Executive Director at the Foundation at Hearst Castle, Michael has always found ways to make an impact both on and off the field. In our conversation, we explored themes of patience, perseverance, and the power of giving back—qualities that resonate deeply with nonprofit leaders and anyone working to create meaningful change. 00:32 Guest Introduction: Michael Young's Accomplishments 01:35 Michael Young's Early Life and High School Journey 04:32 College Years at UCLA 06:13 Transition to Professional Sports 08:48 Challenges and Lessons Learned 11:43 Advice for Nonprofit Leaders 16:45 Philanthropy and Giving Back 22:13 Hearst Castle Foundation: Vision and Impact 29:51 Embracing Technology in Nonprofits 32:47 Documentary on Emmett Ashford 38:33 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Connect with John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka  Send us an email: info@starfishapp.com  Support the causes that matter most to Michael:  Called Up Documentary: https://calledupdocumentary.com/  The Foundation at Hearst Castle: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/77-0068533  Boys and Girls Club of America: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/35-2129067  Young Life: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/84-0385934  Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  In this episode of The Art of Good, I’m joined by Heidi Johnson, author of the newly released book Change for Good, which explores the transformative power of service. After a life-altering family tragedy, Heidi turned her grief into a force for positive change, founding the Spiritual Care Guild to provide much-needed support for families in crisis. Heidi shares what she’s learned about resilience, purpose, and the unique healing that comes through helping others. Through her book Change for Good, Heidi offers readers practical ways to transform their own pain into purpose by making an impact in their communities. Tune in to hear her insights on moving forward, creating positive change, and inspiring hope, even in the face of loss. 00:28 Meet Heidi Johnson: A Multifaceted Career 01:30 Heidi's Early Career in the For-Profit Sector 03:58 A Life-Altering Tragedy 06:12 Founding the Spiritual Care Guild 08:52 The Healing Power of Service 13:45 Charity Matters: Sharing Stories of Nonprofit Founders 18:40 Leading with Service: The TASC Journey 22:59 Faith and Leadership 24:21 Embracing Technology in Nonprofits 25:24 Empowering Youth Through Social Media 27:20 Introducing the New Book: Change for Good 28:35 The Transformative Power of Service 35:12 Pride in Family and Philanthropy 39:19 Supporting Various Causes 42:06 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Connect with Heidi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-mcniff-johnson-7758b225/ Buy Change for Good: https://buy.stripe.com/6oE7sOazuahBbpm144 Website: https://charity-matters.com/ Listen to Charity Matters: https://open.spotify.com/show/5PWzaK5N0ljyU7MPfT7iMx?si=c1d8da88b03a4f64 Support the causes that mean the most to Heidi: Spiritual Care Guild: https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/20-0872821 Cristo Rey Network of Schools: https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/04-3730980 Miracle Messages: https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/82-4179328 Are you a non-profit that wants to Connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In this episode of The Art of Good, I sit down with Rob Valencia, an attorney and nonprofit consultant with over 30 years of experience, to uncover the often-overlooked importance of governance in the nonprofit world. We talk about how solid governance is the backbone that keeps organizations thriving, even when they’re laser-focused on their mission. Rob shares his personal journey, from pro bono legal work to serving on nonprofit boards, and why educating board members is critical to avoiding costly mistakes. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, sitting on a board, or just passionate about the sector, you’ll walk away with actionable insights on how to strengthen your organization and make a bigger impact. Connect with John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka Connect with Rob Valencia on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/j09cWODNmXP6T5FjXIBt13UtfAo2 Support the causes that mean the most to Rob: Food Forward, https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/90-0678872 Foothill Family, https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-1690990 Curebound, https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/46-0552414 Are you a non-profit that wants to Connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Welcome Dave Levan, Dave shares his inspiring journey from high-profile roles at Kraft Heinz and Walmart to his current position as CEO of LifeWater International and Water for Good. We dive into the critical importance of corporate social responsibility, the transformative power of clean water and sanitation, and the fascinating merger of two impactful nonprofits. This episode highlights the essence of making a difference, the power of storytelling, and how you can contribute to impactful causes. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, Dave's story is sure to inspire and inform. 00:18 Meet Dave Levan: Businessman Turned Nonprofit Leader 01:27 Dave's Personal and Professional Journey 02:35 Transition from For-Profit to Nonprofit 05:45 The Importance of Corporate Social Responsibility 08:50 Understanding Consumer Awareness and Impact 14:45 LifeWater International and Water for Good: Mission and Impact 21:31 The Merger: Strengthening Nonprofit Efforts 26:15 Storytelling and Technology in Nonprofits 34:01 Future Goals and How to Get Involved 40:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Check out Dave Levan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlevan Are you a non-profit that wants to Connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In this episode of 'The Art of Good,' I interview Shane Foley, a successful businessman and former USC quarterback. Shane, alongside his wife Farrell, founded the nonprofit 'Rainy Day Pennies' aimed at supporting underprivileged children in Southern California. We talk about Shane's background, his motivation behind starting the nonprofit, his family's involvement, and the importance of giving back. Shane shares insights on the significance of the charity's mission, overcoming challenges, the broader impact of their work, and some inspirational advice for those looking to make a difference in their communities. 00:37 Meet Shane Foley: From USC Quarterback to Philanthropist 01:31 Shane's Journey: High School to USC 03:09 The Seeds of Philanthropy 06:43 Professional Career and Philanthropic Involvement 09:43 The Birth of Rainy Day Pennies 16:18 Growing Up and Family Values 17:06 Starting a Nonprofit: Challenges and Strategies 20:27 Adapting to Change: The Impact of COVID-19 21:25 Community Involvement and Outreach 24:16 The Importance of Giving Back 27:20 Encouragement for Aspiring Philanthropists 29:02 Future Vision for Rainy Day Pennies 30:45 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Check out Shane Foley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanefoley/ Are you a non-profit that wants to Connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In this episode of 'The Art of Good,' I sit down with Bruce Downes, founder of The Catholic Guy, to discuss the journey of launching and leading an international faith-based nonprofit. Bruce shares personal stories of struggle, perseverance, and success, detailing his path from a teenager passionate about faith to the head of a global ministry. The conversation delves into the importance of embracing pain, holding onto dreams, the critical role of a supportive team, and the rewards of perseverance. Listeners are treated to a raw and inspirational look at the highs and lows of pursuing a mission that makes a significant difference in the world. 00:00 Embracing the Pain of Pursuing Dreams 00:24 Introduction to the Art of Good 00:44 Meet Bruce Downs: Founder of The Catholic Guy 01:23 Bruce's Journey: From Faith to Nonprofit 02:56 The Birth of a Vision 03:59 Building a Global Nonprofit 05:06 The Power of Teamwork and Vision 07:16 Challenges and Triumphs 07:34 The Catholic Guy: A Unique Mission 08:34 Starting from Scratch: The Television Journey 10:55 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Limitations 12:06 The Importance of Perseverance 12:29 Leadership and Team Building 17:47 Stories of Impact 20:26 Facing Challenges and Staying Motivated 27:15 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 29:05 Encouragement for the Journey Ahead 33:42 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/  Check out Bruce Downes work at The Catholic Guy: https://brucedownes.org  Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out Starfish:  https://www.starfishapp.com  Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com

In this episode of The Art of Good, host John Cervenka interviews his friend and accomplished philanthropist John Semcken. They discuss John's transition from a Top Gun fighter pilot to a successful real estate developer and a founder of the Land of the Free Foundation. John shares stories from his military career, his unexpected foray into the entertainment industry, and his impactful work in supporting military and veteran causes through philanthropy. The conversation highlights the importance of strategic giving, the ethics of nonprofit management, and the fulfilling nature of giving back. Listeners are encouraged to find ways to make a positive impact in their own communities. 00:00 Introduction and Mission Statement 00:25 Meet John Semcken: Fighter Pilot to Philanthropist 02:57 Top Gun and Hollywood Adventures 05:45 Transition to Real Estate and Philanthropy 08:53 Founding the Land of the Free Foundation 14:50 Supporting Military and Veteran Causes 23:01 The Role of Private Philanthropy in Supporting Veterans 24:36 Choosing the Right Organizations to Support 25:47 Skills Needed for Successful Nonprofits 27:49 Organizing the Best Golf Tournament for Fundraising 29:15 Heartfelt Stories from Veterans and Their Families 32:01 Supporting Inner City Youth Through Music 36:41 Encouraging Business Leaders to Get Involved in Philanthropy 39:29 The Ripple Effect of Helping Others 42:04 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Check out John Semckens work at Land Of The Free Foundation: https://www.landofthefreefoundation.org/ Are you a non-profit that wants to Connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/  What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Welcome to The Art of Good, the podcast where we dive deep into the stories of non-profit leaders that are making a difference for good and the great causes they support. Join host John Cervenka, co-founder and CEO of Starfish Social Media, as we explore the missions, challenges, and successes of these leaders. Get closer to the heartbeat of goodwill and help uncover the art and science behind how to truly activate a mission that impacts countless others.