On this episode of SIL, we’re joined by the new Executive Director of Plywood People, Matt Reynolds. Matt leads the conversation with a powerful lineup of leaders: Jeff Shinabarger, Founder of Plywood People; Chanel Dokun, co-founder of Healthy Minds NYC, a therapy and coaching practice; and Christina Cummings, Executive Director of Kids2Leaders. Together, they reflect on their experiences in Plywood’s “Layers” program—a space designed to help leaders go deeper, build strong models for their organizations, and face the hard questions that come with leadership. Jeff shares the inspiration behind creating the Layers program, and the group explores the unique sense of community it fosters among both nonprofit and for-profit leaders. If you’ve ever longed for a space where you can be honest about the challenges of leadership, this episode is for you. https://www.plywoodpeople.com/layers Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: Jude ReynoldsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the season finale of the Social Impact Leaders Podcast, host Jeff Shinabarger takes the guest seat as producer LaTasha Brown flips the script and interviews him. They dive into Jeff's journey as the founder and executive director of Plywood People, reflecting on the organization's 15-year impact and the progress it has made. Jeff shares his vision for the future, insights on leadership, and the transformative experiences from his recent sabbatical. Don’t miss this inspiring and candid conversation to close out the season. Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In today’s episode of the Plywood Presents Social Impact Leader Series, we wrap up with our inspiring guest, Chantel Cohen—a licensed therapist and business coach. Chantel shares her insights on the vital connection between maintaining mental health and managing the demands of running a business. She also opens up about the challenges she’s faced as both a business leader and a therapist, explaining how these experiences have shaped her journey and amplified her impact as a Social Impact Leader. Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today’s episode of the Social Impact Leaders Podcast we return to the Plywood Presents SIL Series with an inspiring panel featuring three remarkable social impact leaders: Aaron Fender, Co-founder and CEO of Portrait Coffee; Doug Shipman, President of Atlanta’s City Council; and Ericka Brown, Realtor, Entrepreneur, and Investor. This dynamic discussion explores starting from the ground up, navigating tough leadership decisions, and challenging the status quo. As we approach the conclusion of this series, we hope to leave you with deeper insights into the transformative power of social impact leadership.Tune in and be inspired! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week, we continue our Social Impact Leader series, featuring incredible voices from the Plywood Social Impact Leaders event. Our guest is Leroy Barber, Executive Director of Word Made Flesh Ministries and former president of Mission Year and Focused Community Strategies (FCS) Urban Ministries. Leroy shares valuable insights on sustaining leadership in the nonprofit sector and delivers motivational advice for aspiring social impact leaders. Tune in and get inspired! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn more: southface.org This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, and throughout the next few, we’ll bring you insights from inspiring leaders who spoke at Plywood’s Social Impact Leaders Event. Kicking off this series is Jeff Shinabarger, founder of Plywood and host of the Social Impact Leaders Podcast. Jeff shares valuable lessons on the importance of stepping into the role of a social impact leader and emphasizes why prioritizing mental health is essential for sustaining both yourself and your organization. Don’t miss this impactful series—tune in now! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In today’s episode, Jeff sits down with Mallory Erickson—fundraiser, author, and executive coach—to explore her journey and groundbreaking strategies in the world of fundraising. Mallory delves into the power of aligning fundraising practices with personal values and the value of fostering genuine relationships with donors. She addresses the drawbacks of transactional fundraising methods, shedding light on how they can hinder donor engagement and lead to fundraiser burnout. Together, Jeff and Mallory share their own experiences with burnout and the steps they took to overcome it. Tune in to discover fresh approaches to community-driven fundraising! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: https://malloryerickson.com/book/ This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jeff sits down with Mark Hubbard, the visionary leader behind Renew Venture Capital. Mark shares his deep commitment to social impact investing, aligning venture capital with sustainable growth and measurable positive impact. Together, they dive into his unique approach, blending finance expertise with a passion for empowering underrepresented founders and communities. Curious about how Mark is redefining capital to build a more inclusive and resilient future? Tune in to find out! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: renewvc.com/ This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On today’s episode, Jeff speaks with Kishshana Palmer—speaker, TEDx alum, and author of Busy is a Four-Letter Word. Kishshana dives into reigniting passion, embracing purpose without second-guessing, and navigating the unique tensions faced by social impact leaders. She shares valuable insights on making intentional choices to reduce stress, creating more freedom and impact as a leader. Plus, Kishshana offers an inside look at her new book, exploring how it empowers leaders to thrive in their roles. Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: kishshanapalmer.com/about This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jeff interviews Ali Horriyat, founder of Comppastive, a non-profit focused on building a more compassionate society. Ali reflects on his journey as a successful day trader, how it brought him wealth but not fulfillment, and how his views on money and human value have evolved. He also offers insights on the nonprofit sector, emphasizing the need for long-term, permanent solutions to societal problems. This thought-provoking conversation is a must-listen! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: https://compassiviste.com/ This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In today’s episode, Jeff sits down with Katya Hancock, Executive Director of Young Futures, to explore how her organization is addressing the growing anxiety among young people related to social media. Young Futures stands out by not only supporting youth but also empowering nonprofits and grassroots organizations that share their mission of uplifting families in the digital age. This insightful conversation delves into the profound effects of screen time on young minds and the critical role support organizations play in identifying the root causes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone with youth in their lives—perfect for family listening. Tune in now! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: youngfutures.org This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jeff sits down with James Marlow, President of Southface Institute, to discuss his journey from tech employee to non-profit leader. James reflects on how his experiences in the tech world shaped his path toward the non-profit sector, where his commitment to sustainability now drives his efforts to make other organizations more environmentally responsible. He also highlights the importance of cultivating diverse perspectives and how innovation has been key to his success as a leader. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about leadership, sustainability, and the power of innovation. Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: www.southface.org This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In today's episode, Jeff sits down with Josh Penny, Social Impact Director at Hinge. They dive into how Josh's background in education and community work led him to social impact at Hinge. Josh shares insights on aligning your career with meaningful, impactful work and discusses Hinge's mission to address the loneliness epidemic. This is an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: https://hinge.co/onemorehour This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jeff sits down with Zach Levenenz, CEO of SEED SPOT, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers social entrepreneurs to create products, services, and technologies aimed at improving lives and making the world a better place. Zach shares how his upbringing sparked a transformative shift in his approach to business and leadership. He also discusses the importance of adaptability in an ever-changing world while staying true to your mission. This insightful conversation is packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to make an impact. Tune in and check it out! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: https://seedspot.org/ This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jeff sits down with Shilpa Alva, founder and executive director of Surge for Water, a non-profit dedicated to providing safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health solutions to break the cycle of poverty. Shilpa shares how she was inspired from a young age to make a difference in her country, realizing that many of the challenges her community faced were tied to water access. She reflects on the personal sacrifices she’s made in her journey, yet highlights how her work has transformed lives. Shilpa also shares how she intentionally invests in herself to stay grounded, while leading Surge’s impactful initiatives. Not only has Surge improved the lives of thousands by creating sustainable water solutions, but it has also fostered a system that empowers women to lead in unconventional ways. Want to learn more about Shilpa and how she’s making a global impact? Tune in to this insightful conversation! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: www.surgeforwater.org This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In today’s episode, Jeff sits down with Katharine Wilkinson, author, teacher, and Founder of The All We Can Save Project. Katharine shares how a pivotal moment in her youth ignited her passion for addressing climate change and building a more sustainable future. She explores how humanity can align with nature and life itself. Jeff and Katharine also discuss the significance of human connection and the importance of finding community with like-minded individuals. This insightful conversation touches on the evolving life cycle of Earth and our responsibility as stewards of the planet. Don’t miss it! Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleader socialimpactleader.com Follow: instagram.com/plywoodpeople plywoodpeople.com Learn More: https://www.allwecansave.earth/project This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jeff sits down with Dave Gibbons—speaker, pastor, and author of The Shape of My Eyes. Dave shares his evolving perspective on success and reflects on his fight against injustice as an Asian American. They delve into his experiences with racial and cultural divides in the U.S. and the journey to embrace his full identity. This conversation is powerful and thought-provoking—one you won't want to miss. www.socialimpactleader.com Follow: www.instagram.com/plywoodpeople www.plywoodpeople.com About Dave Gibbons: https://www.davegibbons.org/ This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network. wabe.org/podcasts Edited By: DJ OP Diggy Produced By: LaTasha Brown Music By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jeff sits down with Amanda Rhein, Executive Director of the Atlanta Land Trust. Amanda and Jeff explore the innovative ways she is transforming home ownership in Atlanta, focusing on sustainability and affordability. Amanda shares insights into how her leadership style has evolved and the importance of aligning her intentions with her leadership. She also discusses how she balances the demands of leadership with maintaining personal well-being. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleadersocialimpactleader.comFollow: instagram.com/plywoodpeopleplywoodpeople.comAbout Atlanta Land Trust: https://atlantalandtrust.org/This Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network.wabe.org/podcastsEdited By: DJ OP DiggyProduced By: LaTasha BrownMusic By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Jeff sits down with Afua Bruce, a renowned author, engineer, and thought leader in the realm of public interest AI. Afua shares insights on how we can effectively train individuals on emerging technologies, regardless of their resources or access. Together, they tackle the complex issue of bias in AI, emphasizing the critical need to establish ethical standards for AI tools. The conversation also explores the concept of health, the vital role of community in sustaining well-being, and how technology can enhance these essential relationships.Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleadersocialimpactleader.comFollow: instagram.com/plywoodpeopleplywoodpeople.comGet Afua's Book: The Tech That Comes NextThis Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network.wabe.org/podcastsEdited By: DJ OP DiggyProduced By: LaTasha BrownMusic By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joining us this week is Diana McLain Smith, co-founder of Action Design, author, and Partner at the Monitor Group. Diana's work delves into the complex dynamics of strategic choice and change within organizations, with a particular focus on human behavior. Together, Jeff and Diana explore the impact and causes of fear-driven engagement in news, media, and politics, uncovering the deeper truths behind polarization, extremes, and the erosion of choice. Diana shares her insights on how we can harness conflict productively and foster creativity by learning to disagree in ways that propel us forward, especially among the increasingly divided media, economic, and social landscape of today.The Social Impact Leader Podcast explores the ambitious world of change-makers through interviews with pioneers in business, sports, activism, and entertainment. Hosted by Jeff Shinabarger, founder of Plywood People - get curious about the balance between empathy and productivity. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, or simply curious about making a difference, this podcast will be your guide. Follow: instagram.com/socialimpactleadersocialimpactleader.comFollow: instagram.com/plywoodpeopleplywoodpeople.comMore on Diana McLain Smith and her work: https://actiondesign.com/about/people/smithThis Podcast is brought to you by WABE, part of the NPR Network.wabe.org/podcastsEdited By: DJ OP DiggyProduced By: LaTasha BrownMusic By: DJ OP DiggySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.