The Unfiltered Non-Profit: Leaders Share It All

In this episode, we sit down with Claude-Paul Boivin to talk honestly about the path into nonprofit leadership — and what it really takes to lead well once you're there.  Claude-Paul shares how his career didn't follow a straight line, and how early exposure to public service helped shape his understanding of impact, responsibility, and decision-making. As the conversation unfolds, he reflects on the moment he realized that strong governance, financial clarity, and internal systems aren't "behind-the-scenes" work — they're what make meaningful mission work possible.  We dig into the realities of stepping into senior leadership, including the pressure to have all the answers, the isolation that can come with the role, and the importance of learning to ask better questions instead of trying to do everything alone. Claude-Paul speaks candidly about how leadership shifts when you move from doing the work to creating the conditions for others to succeed.  The conversation also tackles the role of finances in nonprofit sustainability. Claude-Paul explains why understanding your numbers — even at a high level — leads to better decisions, stronger board conversations, and less reactive leadership.  This episode is a grounded, practical listen for nonprofit leaders at any stage — especially those navigating growth, responsibility, and the quieter challenges that come with leading purpose-driven organizations. 

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, our conversation with Angela Fenton, former board Chair of Pleo, went well beyond board mechanics. What really surfaced was the hidden cost of instability — not just to organizations, but to the people leading them. Angela spoke candidly about Executive Directors living in a constant cycle of "we have funding / we don't have funding," and how that emotional whiplash becomes a health risk, not just a leadership challenge. That framing matters. When boards delay decisions around sustainability, they aren't just managing cash — they're transferring pressure directly onto one person.  Another underappreciated insight was how boards often misjudge risk. Angela described situations where boards hesitated to spend reserves on a fractional fundraiser because of fear — fear of depleting cash, fear it wouldn't work, fear of being wrong. But she reframed the real question: what is the risk of not investing? Staying understaffed, relying on an already stretched ED, and hoping the funding picture improves on its own isn't neutral — it's a decision with consequences. In this case, the board accepted short-term discomfort to create long-term capacity, giving leadership space to plan instead of constantly react.  The episode also highlighted something boards rarely formalize: who carries the thinking load. Angela described how, without intentional support, EDs become the default strategist, fundraiser, operator, and emotional shock absorber. Her board made deliberate choices — allocating professional development funds, embedding future-focused conversations into performance reviews, and involving finance partners early — to redistribute that load. Not because it was generous, but because it was necessary for sustainability.  The real insight here is this: good governance isn't about control, and it isn't about caution. It's about absorbing risk at the board level so it doesn't collapse onto staff, and making investments before burnout or crisis forces your hand. For boards and leaders reading this, the harder question isn't "Can we afford to do this?" It's "Who is paying the price if we don't?" 

  This episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast features an honest, open conversation with Traci Spour-Lafrance, Executive Director of the Ottawa Community Housing Foundation — the team supporting 33,000 people across 155 communities, including 12,000 kids and youth. Traci walks us through what it really looks like to keep programs running at that scale, especially when funding shifts and the needs in the community keep growing.  A few years ago, their biggest programs were funded by government grants that suddenly disappeared. Instead of cutting back, Traci and her team rebuilt their whole model. Now they stretch every donated dollar into $3 of programming by stacking subsidies, partnering with local recreation providers, and working with corporate groups who actually build the bikes, pack the backpacks, and help fund the programs they're supporting. Their leadership program brings in 150 youth a year, and their recreation program gets kids into activities they never thought they'd access.  Traci also shares a moment many nonprofit leaders will relate to — realizing not enough people even knew the Foundation existed. That pushed her to join AFP Ottawa, start showing up at events, and talk about their work one conversation at a time. The result? Their fundraising revenue has more than doubled, their donor base is stronger, and the team has grown from "fundraising on the side of a desk" to a full resource development crew.  We wrap the interview with a very real conversation about balance: leading a busy nonprofit, raising two kids, and finding routines that keep her grounded. It's a down-to-earth look at what nonprofit impact really takes when the need is huge, the dollars are tight, and you decide to keep going anyway. 

Every nonprofit wants to build something that lasts — but sustainability can feel like a moving target.  In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry Chan sits down with Melissa Shahin, Chief Strategy Officer at AFMC, to talk about what sustainability actually looks like when strategy meets execution.  Melissa shares how AFMC shifted from being heavily grant-funded to running a successful social enterprise — the AFMC Student Portal — that now fuels its mission while reducing government reliance to under 20%. She explains how the team links board priorities to measurable outcomes using scorecards and indicators, helping them make faster, data-driven decisions.  The conversation dives deep into what makes nonprofit sustainability strategies work:  tracking what truly matters instead of chasing every initiative,  being transparent about change and earning staff buy-in, and  building flexibility into work culture to protect teams from burnout.  For any nonprofit leader wondering how to turn a solid plan into lasting impact — this episode is a masterclass in staying mission-driven and financially resilient. 

 In this Unfiltered Nonprofit conversation, Cherry sits down with Tara Shannon, Executive Director of the Ottawa Festival Network (OFN), which represents more than 100 festivals across arts, music, and culture. A lifelong entrepreneur and artist, Tara brings a rare 360° view—she's built private companies (including scaling to 120 employees), founded Willow Sound Records in 2014, wrote You in the Music Business, and still coaches creators on building sustainable careers.  The thread through it all: sustainability without losing soul. Tara breaks down why owned audiences matter more than ever—email lists beat social algorithms for consistency, control, and conversion. Using a relationship model (introduce → educate → permission → nurture), she explains how nonprofits can communicate weekly without burning out their lists: give value 80% of the time, ask 20%.  We also get real about volunteers—the lifeblood of the festival sector. The organizations that retain volunteers year after year do two things exceptionally well: create an emotional connection to the mission and deliver a fair value exchange (access, perks, food, community). That same mindset fuels growth in nonprofit sponsorship—where authentic engagement now matters more than logo placement.  Looking ahead, OFN is building a sponsor-match "Tinder for festivals" (name TBD) to help connect mission-driven organizations with private-sector partners. It's a fresh, technology-driven approach to nonprofit sponsorship that aligns shared values and real audience data. Combined with peer learning—like financial literacy workshops featuring Bluesfest's Mark Monahan—it's a practical blueprint for any nonprofit rethinking its sponsorship strategy and navigating uncertainty with creativity and consistency. 

What if the secret to securing major gifts and building stronger donor relationships isn't about having the biggest database or slickest pitch—but about simply listening?  In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry Chan sits down with Chris McGarvey, CEO of the Canadian Nurses Foundation, to unpack nearly 30 years of nonprofit fundraising leadership. Chris shares how listening first—to staff, boards, and donors—has shaped his career and why it remains the most powerful strategy for cultivating trust and raising significant funds.  You'll hear how CNF pivoted during the pandemic to launch mental health programming, diversifying both its programs and donor base. Chris breaks down the realities of major gift fundraising, from the 70/30 hospital funding split to the patience required for $25k+ gifts that often take 18–24 months to secure.  For nonprofit CEOs, fundraisers, and board members, this episode is a reminder that sustainable revenue growth comes from more than one funding source. With practical insights on donor diversification, board engagement, and balancing the demands of leadership, Chris offers a roadmap for thriving—even in uncertain times.  You'll learn:  Why listening is the cornerstone of major gifts fundraising  How to diversify programs to attract new donors and revenue streams  The realistic timeline for $25k+ major gifts (18–24 months)  How to build a business case your board will support  Why strong leaders build teams that don't depend on them  If you're ready to strengthen your nonprofit's fundraising pipeline, this conversation is packed with strategies you can put to work right away. 

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry sits down with Vaia Dimas, Executive Director of the Almonte General Hospital–Fairview Manor Foundation. With 20 years in fundraising, Vaia shares how small teams can punch above their weight by getting disciplined, streamlining events, and collaborating—even with "competitors." She explains why hospital equipment isn't government-funded, how donor education unlocks giving, and what it takes to stay motivated when leadership feels isolating.  You'll hear a practical playbook: trim what doesn't move the needle (like time-sucking auctions that underperform), refocus golf tournaments around one or two high-yield mechanics, and convert "nice to have" add-ons into mission-critical gifts. Vaia also breaks down a donor-sparked joint lottery between two nearby hospitals—new money neither could access alone, shared workload, and a stronger community message.  If you're an ED or fundraiser feeling stretched thin, this conversation shows how discipline beats motivation, how to build a personal leadership circle, and how diversified revenue gives you stability when the economy wobbles.  Highlights  Why donors fund what's inside the hospital walls—and how to explain it simply  The small-shop advantage: deeper relationships, faster learning loops  Event redesign that saves staff time and raises more (fewer raffles, clearer case for support)  Diversifying revenue beyond galas to reduce risk  Collaboration that creates net-new dollars (and shares the workload)  Mindset shift: discipline over motivation when leadership feels isolating  Practical Tips You Can Use This Quarter  Audit one signature event: cut low-yield tasks (e.g., sprawling auctions) and add a direct "fund the equipment" paddle raise/auction  Teach the need: make "what government funds vs. what donors fund" a standard one-pager  Diversify lightly: add one new stream (vendor program, planned giving starter, small lottery/pilot raffle) without blowing up your calendar  Form a leadership circle: three peers you can call for gut-checks and confidential problem-solving 

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry Chan talks with Nicole Thibeault, former National Executive Director of Canadian Parents for French, about the strategies that helped her achieve nonprofit revenue growth and long-term sustainability. Over 10 years, Nicole successfully doubled organizational revenue by diversifying funding streams, charging modest fees for programs, and turning small donations into a culture of philanthropy. From $5 monthly donors to securing major grants, her approach shows that every dollar counts. She also ensured a 100% giving rate from her board of directors, proving that leadership in fundraising starts at the top. Nicole shares how she rallied her 5–7 staff team and a national network across provinces to align with strategic goals. Her staff training sessions grew from just 5 participants to more than 30, demonstrating how culture change is built step by step. She also provides a roadmap for succession planning, describing her two-year retirement transition that included 18 months of transparency and a 3-week overlap with her successor — ensuring stability and confidence across the organization. If you're an Executive Director, CEO, board member, or nonprofit professional, this episode is packed with real-world strategies to strengthen your nonprofit's fundraising, leadership, and sustainability.  

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, host Cherry Chan sits down with Peter Costello, Executive Director of Eden Food for Change, to discuss a powerful example of nonprofit revenue generation in action. Eden, originally a traditional food bank, now generates 42% of its operating budget through an innovative commercial kitchen model. By launching a social enterprise for nonprofits that includes meal production, corporate team-building events, and a partnership with Meals on Wheels, Eden Food for Change turned its underutilized kitchen into a revenue-driving asset. With over 100,000 meals produced annually, and 120+ companies participating in team experiences each year, the model demonstrates that earned income strategies can fuel mission-driven impact without relying solely on grants or donations. Peter shares the story of how they started with a $166,000 investment and grew the kitchen into a three-quarter-of-a-million-dollar operation. He also explores how financial sustainability for nonprofits depends not just on creative ideas—but on building relationships, leveraging existing assets, and staying flexible through funding shifts. Whether you're leading a food program or just exploring revenue diversification, this episode is packed with lessons for any organization aiming to transform and grow.  

Innovative Funding from the Ottawa Community Land Trust In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry Chan speaks with Mike Bulthuis, Executive Director of the Ottawa Community Land Trust (OCLT), about how his organization is rethinking nonprofit fundraising. Founded in 2021, OCLT is part of a growing network of community land trusts in Canada working to preserve and expand affordable housing in perpetuity. Instead of relying solely on grants or charitable donations, OCLT uses community bonds—a nonprofit fundraising alternative that invites individuals to invest in their mission. Investors receive a modest return, while OCLT gains the flexibility to move quickly on real estate opportunities. This strategy enabled the organization to secure its first property purchase by combining community investments with an anonymous gift. It's a model that aligns capital with community impact, offering a new path forward for organizations seeking a sustainable nonprofit real estate strategy. Despite operating with a lean team of just three staff members, OCLT is building toward long-term financial sustainability. With leadership from a board that includes nonprofit veterans, economists, and private sector developers, the organization is uniquely positioned to blend mission and business thinking. Their approach shows that nonprofits don't need to wait for grants—they can raise capital directly and act with urgency. In Summary The Ottawa Community Land Trust is showing what's possible when a nonprofit thinks like a social enterprise. By using community bonds to fund affordable housing acquisitions, OCLT avoids traditional barriers like slow-moving grants and limited donations. For nonprofits exploring fundraising alternatives, this episode is a clear example of how innovation, community support, and financial strategy can come together to create real impact.  

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry Chan speaks with Hailey Hechtman, Executive Director of Unsinkable, a national nonprofit mental health organization founded by Olympian Silken Laumann. Hailey shares how Unsinkable launched a national campaign, Fragments: Stories That Heal, using in-kind contributions and partnerships instead of large funding. The campaign featured: 25 billboards across the GTA, including Dundas Square Audio stories broadcasted via radio, podcasts, and digital ads A 45% increase in direct website traffic in a single month This conversation is packed with ideas for nonprofit leaders who are navigating lean budgets, trying to grow their audience, or build partnerships. What You'll Learn: How a nonprofit mental health leader built a crisis line in the Yukon from scratch How to use in-kind donations and local partnerships to create national impact Why storytelling is a critical tool for advocacy, fundraising, and brand-building Why it's okay if your career path isn't linear—and how to lead through uncertainty Hailey's Quote to Remember: "Some of our biggest wins came from someone we met at a conference or a LinkedIn post we followed up on." If you're leading a nonprofit mental health organization or any nonprofit with a powerful story, this episode is full of practical, creative takeaways.  

In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I sit down with Erin Benjamin, President and CEO of the Canadian Live Music Association, to talk about what it really takes to build something from nothing. Erin launched the association in 2014 with no staff, no logo, and no office—and today, it has over 400 members nationwide. We dive into what industry advocacy actually looks like behind the scenes. How do you keep small venues and major players aligned under one roof? What does it mean to use your personal voice in service of a collective mission? Erin shares how she's stayed grounded in purpose, even when the work is nonstop and the path forward isn't always clear. We also explore the CLMA's latest economic impact report, which found that live music contributed over $10 billion to Canada's GDP in 2023 and supported more than 100,000 jobs. Erin explains how this kind of data fuels stronger industry advocacy and helps push for policies that actually support the people doing the work. If you've ever tried to rally a sector, juggle a small team, or build a brand that's bigger than one person—this conversation will hit home.  

What happens when the demand for your services grows faster than your funding? In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I sit down with Michelle Crogie, Executive Director of PLEO (Parents' Lifeline of Eastern Ontario), to talk about the real challenges of leading a high-impact nonprofit through growth, heartbreak, and hustle. From securing grants to launching events, we explore real-world nonprofit revenue growth strategies that go beyond the theory. Michelle shares how PLEO's services—like their helpline and support groups—are at full capacity, even though core funding only covers about 25% of their budget. The rest? It's a constant effort: grant writing, donor campaigns, and creative fundraising like their first-ever gala, which raised $12,000. Ever tried to expand a mental health program with year-to-year money? That's the juggling act—and Michelle's approach offers important lessons for nonprofit revenue growth strategies in action. One of the most compelling parts of our conversation is PLEO's Youth-Nominated Support Team program. Early results show a sharp drop in suicidal ideation after just six weeks—a powerful reminder of why sustainable funding matters. With 26 partner agencies backing their Health Canada grant application, Michelle is building momentum for scale. If you've ever had to chase dollars while trying to make a difference, this episode gives you a raw, honest look at nonprofit revenue growth strategies that are rooted in purpose—not just spreadsheets. About OTUS Financial Solutions: At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours. If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit's financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let's make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I sit down with Caitlin Morrison, Executive Director of the Matthew Perry Foundation, to talk about the bold, love-fueled journey behind Matthew Perry House — a groundbreaking initiative offering long-term recovery housing and support for people struggling with substance use. We explore how Caitlin and the Matthew Perry Foundation, along with a powerful coalition of local organizations, are redefining what recovery can look like in Canada. This episode dives into why three years of care is the magic number, and how Caitlin's nonprofit journey—sparked by a temporary job and a deep love for people—has led to building something extraordinary in her brother's name. This isn't just about bricks and mortar. It's about people. It's about healing. It's about changing the system, one community at a time. Caitlin shares how a full year of support can triple someone's chances of long-term recovery, and how reaching the three-year mark brings that number to 83%. With 167 residential units planned in Ottawa, the first Matthew Perry House is designed to provide not just treatment, but a true home—where community, mentorship, and individualized care come together to create lasting change. The Matthew Perry Foundation is already breaking ground on this project, less than a year after the first conversation, showing what's possible when collaboration replaces competition. Whether you're in nonprofit leadership, recovery support, or just curious about what's possible when community and purpose collide — this episode will leave you inspired by the impact the Matthew Perry Foundation is creating. 💬 "It's all love. It's him. And that's why we're doing this." About OTUS Financial Solutions: At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours. If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit's financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let's make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.  

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we speak with Nick Neuheimer, CEO of the Canadian Association of Radiologists, about his path into nonprofit leadership and why he helped start the Ottawa Association Executive Network (OAEN). Nick shares how he moved from a career in economics to association management, eventually becoming a CEO and earning his Certified Association Executive(CAE) designation along the way. Through that journey, one theme kept coming up: the importance of connection. After years of virtual meetings and isolated leadership roles, Nick saw a clear need for a space where nonprofit and association professionals could meet face-to-face, learn from each other, and build relationships. That's what led to the launch of OAEN. More than just networking events, the sessions are focused on real issues—like advocacy, governance, and succession planning—offering practical insights and a chance to talk honestly with peers. In this conversation, Nick and Cherry discuss: How peer networks can support leaders through tough decisions Why in-person connection still matters, especially in hiring The role of OAEN in helping leaders at all stages of their careers And how creating space for shared learning can strengthen the entire sector If you're looking for a community of nonprofit and association leaders who are open, curious, and committed to learning—this episode is for you.   About OTUS Financial Solutions: At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours. If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit's financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let's make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.  

Welcome to the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast. Today, we are  joined by Emily Jones, co-founder of Connected Canadians, a nonprofit that has successfully turned corporate training into a sustainable revenue stream while helping seniors build digital literacy skills. What started as a self-funded initiative quickly evolved when Emily and her team recognized the need for a more reliable funding model. They leveraged their expertise in digital literacy and developed training programs for major corporations, securing partnerships with Rogers, Amazon, TD Canada, and Best Buy. Their breakthrough deal with Rogers resulted in over 2,000 training licenses sold, equipping technicians with the skills to better assist senior customers. This success validated their model and led to further collaborations with other industry leaders, helping them build sustainable revenue beyond grants and donations. By monetizing their knowledge, Connected Canadians established a scalable funding approach that not only supports free digital literacy services for seniors but also enhances corporate interactions with older adults. Their programs help bridge the generational tech gap while ensuring businesses are equipped to meet the needs of a growing senior population. In addition, their cybersecurity training initiative empowers seniors to navigate the digital world safely, addressing a critical concern in an era of increasing online fraud and scams. Their ability to generate sustainable revenue from training ensures they can continue offering these vital programs without financial instability. This episode delves into how nonprofits can monetize their expertise and build sustainable revenue streams without relying solely on grants. Emily shares how strategic partnerships, a compelling value proposition, and a commitment to mission-driven business practices have allowed Connected Canadians to grow while staying true to its purpose. Visit Connected Canadians to learn more about their innovative funding model and impact. Subscribe to the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast for more insights from nonprofit leaders who are redefining sustainability in the sector.  

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, host Cherry Chan sits down with Rob Henderson, President & CEO of BioTalent Canada, to discuss how he successfully transitioned his nonprofit from government dependency to financial sustainability. Rob shares the hard decisions, bold strategies, and entrepreneurial mindset that helped BioTalent Canada diversify its revenue and thrive. Overcoming the Challenge of Lost Government Funding When BioTalent Canada received news that their federal funding would be cut, they faced a critical turning point. Instead of scaling back, Rob took a bold, business-driven approach to nonprofit revenue diversification—building industry partnerships, offering consulting services, and creating a self-sustaining funding model. Lessons in Leadership and Change Management Rob doesn't shy away from the reality of leading through change. He shares how nonprofit leaders must adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, make tough staffing decisions, and embrace revenue diversification to ensure long-term impact. Practical Strategies for Nonprofit Revenue Diversification In this episode, Rob breaks down actionable steps for nonprofits looking to diversify revenue, including: Establishing corporate partnerships that bring in recurring revenue Creating value-driven sponsorship models Leveraging government funding for specific projects instead of relying on operational grants Developing consulting or training services as additional income streams The Intersection of DEI and Financial Sustainability Rob also shares how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) plays a role in nonprofit success. Through initiatives like the IDEA Committee and the Ideal Bioscience Employer designation, BioTalent Canada ensures that its workforce and funding strategies align with its mission. 💡 If your nonprofit is struggling with funding challenges, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how an entrepreneurial mindset and revenue diversification can create financial stability while staying true to your mission.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Jessie Card, Executive Director of Youth Ottawa, to discuss how nonprofits can move beyond grant dependency and adopt a social enterprise mindset. Under Jessie's leadership, Youth Ottawa transformed its funding model—growing from 0% earned revenue in 2018 to 18% of total revenue generated through paid programming with school boards. This shift has not only strengthened the organization's sustainability but also reinforced its impact, proving that nonprofits can thrive by thinking like businesses while staying mission-driven. Jessie shares how his own experiences with learning challenges inspired him to empower youth through skills development, media literacy, and entrepreneurship. He discusses the crucial role of prevention—investing in young people early yields long-term benefits, with research showing every $1 spent on youth programs can save $5 to $7 in future social costs. Youth Ottawa's innovative approach actively involves young people in shaping and delivering programming, ensuring they gain leadership experience and economic opportunities while driving community change. Beyond financial sustainability, Youth Ottawa has created flagship initiatives like the RBC 21 Under 21 Awards and the Mars Charity Golf Classic, which not only recognize and celebrate young changemakers but also serve as key revenue streams to fund impactful programs. Jessie's insights challenge traditional nonprofit mindsets, emphasizing that organizations must embrace sales, marketing, and business acumen to survive and scale their missions. This conversation is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders looking to innovate their funding models, maximize social impact, and turn financial challenges into opportunities. If you're navigating similar struggles, this episode provides actionable insights on how to leverage partnerships, rethink revenue strategies, and build a financially resilient nonprofit.

In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Susan Ingram, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa, shares how her leadership helped turn a small idea into a thriving social enterprise. Thrive Select Thrift started with just three clothing bins and a $5,000 investment in 2015. Today, it has grown into a successful thrift store that has diverted over 1.5 million pounds of clothing from landfills, generated nearly $500,000 in revenue, and provided 4,448 hours of job training for youth. Beyond raising funds, Thrive Select Thrift has become a key part of their mission, offering mentorship and a safe space for young people to learn and grow. Susan's leadership played a big role in making this happen. With a background in operations and business, she brought practical skills to the nonprofit world, combining strong planning with a "start small" approach. She credits partnerships with organizations like RBC and a supportive board of directors for helping her overcome challenges. Susan also shares how nonprofits often shy away from risks, but by taking small, thoughtful steps—like piloting with a few bins before opening a store—she was able to build confidence in the project and make it work. For Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa, Thrive Select Thrift is more than just a revenue stream. The store provides a physical space for the community to connect with their mission, meet the youth they support, and see their impact firsthand. Susan explains how this has helped showcase their work, which is often hard to "see" since mentorship relationships happen privately. The store also gives young people real-world job training, helping them build skills and a sense of belonging that will stay with them long after their time in the program. Are you looking for new ways to support your nonprofit's mission and diversify your revenue? What small steps could you take to test an idea and build toward something bigger? This episode is full of insights for nonprofit leaders ready to take the leap into social enterprise.  

What does it take to advocate for 65,000 grain farmers across Canada? In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of Grain Growers of Canada, to explore the realities of nonprofit leadership and advocacy in a constantly shifting political landscape. Representing farmers who produce 70% of Canada's grain exports, Kyle shares how his team works tirelessly on Parliament Hill to address issues that directly impact Canadian agriculture. We discuss Kyle's journey into nonprofit leadership, his strategies for aligning advocacy with government priorities, and the importance of adapting to change—whether it's in policies, leadership, or public focus. One standout success Kyle shares is his role in creating the third-ever national college in Canada for intellectual property agents, a multi-year achievement that highlights the power of persistence and collaboration. Kyle also opens up about the challenges he faced as a young leader, including overcoming age-related biases early in his career. His advice? Trust your expertise and stay confident, even in uncertain times. If you've ever wondered how political change impacts nonprofits—or how to stay focused when the ground shifts beneath you—this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world lessons. Tune in to learn how advocacy evolves and why it matters for everyone