The Discovery Pod

In a rapidly changing global landscape marked by shifting geopolitical priorities and reductions in international aid, protecting vulnerable children requires bold leadership and authentic storytelling. Danny Glenwright, President and CEO of Save the Children Canada, shares how his organization centers child rights and empowers youth-led initiatives in crisis zones across the globe. In this conversation, Danny discusses balancing long-term community development with rapid emergency response, navigating aid cuts through localization, and communicating complex humanitarian challenges with clarity and empathy.

A successful healthcare foundation relies on strong trust between clinical leaders and executive visionaries. Establishing an effective CEO-physician partnership can transform how hospitals engage donors and elevate patient care across an entire region. In this episode, host Douglas Nelson welcomes Avery Brohman, Chief Executive Officer at Victoria Hospitals Foundation, and Dr. Jeff McCracken, Chief Urologist and Head of Robotics at Royal Jubilee and Victoria General Hospitals. Together, they discuss how their close collaboration became the strategic catalyst behind raising tens of millions of dollars for surgical innovation. From breaking down administrative silos to uniting physicians, executives, and donors around...

Healthcare is changing rapidly, demanding that organizations look past traditional fundraising to build deep, trust-based community relationships. At the forefront of this shift is the KGH Foundation, an organization redefining how healthcare philanthropy operates both inside and outside hospital walls. In this conversation, host Douglas Nelson sits down with Allison Young, the outgoing CEO of KGH Foundation, to explore her decade of transformative leadership. Allison shares her insights on challenging long-held assumptions about hospital foundations and how to lead with courage when pioneering new collaborative models. She also discusses the creation of Thrive Okanagan and the revolutionary Jim Pattison...

How do we move from simple, transactional giving to creating real, lasting change in our communities? The answer lies in the shift toward relational philanthropy, a concept that is redefining how modern foundations operate and support their partners. Host Douglas Nelson is joined by Hilary Pearson, the founding president of Philanthropic Foundations Canada and author of the 2022 book From Charity to Change: Inside the World of Canadian Foundations. In this episode, Hilary unpacks the transition from traditional, top-down funding models to a collaborative approach built on trust, shared learning, and deep community partnerships. They explore the unique role of...

How can we shift the perception of the social profit sector from being seen as a charitable afterthought to essential civic infrastructure? At the forefront of this movement is the Nonprofit Chamber, which is driving groundbreaking research and partnerships to demonstrate the indispensable role organizations play in community development. Host Douglas Nelson is joined by Angie Gélinas, the President and CEO of the Nonprofit Chamber, to explore how data and advocacy can transform public perception. In this episode, they discuss the innovative “Invisible Anchor” project, which models the economic and social impact of nonprofits on local real estate, and d...

Building an impactful philanthropic strategy requires visionary leadership at the intersection of donor insights and data science. Selecting the right leader to drive research and prospect analytics is essential for elevating fundraising pipelines and accelerating mission-critical initiatives. In this Opportunity Spotlight episode, Becky Yost, Executive Director of Development at the BC Cancer Foundation, breaks down the key priorities for the Associate Director, Research and Prospect Analytics role. She discusses how this reconfigured position will lead business intelligence initiatives, empower fundraising teams, and leverage modern donor analytics. Tune in to discover what makes this strategic leadership role an extraordinary opportunity...

Stepping into a major leadership role is a thrilling milestone, but finding the right pace can be one of the greatest challenges for any incoming executive. Striking the balance between executing bold, decisive actions and taking the time to listen, learn, and absorb organizational history is crucial for long-term sustainability. In this episode, host Douglas Nelson sits down with Brian Torrance, the President and CEO of ParticipACTION, to discuss the delicate art of executive transition. Brian shares his personal reflections on taking the helm of an iconic Canadian national charity, managing board dynamics, and the critical importance of a “ca...

As post-secondary institutions navigate a rapidly changing landscape, leaders are called to think outside the box to secure a sustainable future. Leading Canada’s number-one art and design institution, Emily Carr University of Art and Design, requires a unique blend of creativity and strategic foresight. In this episode, host Douglas Nelson sits down with Dr. Trish Kelly, President and Vice Chancellor of Emily Carr University, to explore the intersection of practice-based education and organizational leadership. They discuss how the rise of artificial intelligence is shaping art and design education, the value of community-centered connection, and how institutions can preserve hu...

Philanthropy is undergoing a major shift across Canada as donor preferences evolve and strategic giving structures become essential. Navigating options like donor advised funds allows individuals, families, and organizations to maximize their long-term impact on the causes they care about most. In this episode, Jo-Anne Ryan, Vice President, Philanthropic Advisory Services at TD Wealth and Executive Director of the Private Giving Foundation, shares invaluable insights into the rapidly expanding role of DAFs in the Canadian charitable sector. She breaks down actionable strategies for board members and social profit leaders to cultivate DAF-friendly organizations, engage financial advisors effectively, and adapt...

Navigating a complex healthcare landscape requires bold leadership, strategic clarity, and a deep commitment to collective action. As CEO of the Canadian Cancer Society, Andrea Seale has guided the organization through a transformative era to maximize its national reach and impact. In this conversation, Andrea shares how her team crafted an ambitious strategic plan aimed at increasing cancer survival, expanding prevention efforts, and improving the quality of life for millions facing a diagnosis. She offers valuable insights into balancing long-term research investments with immediate advocacy wins and building diversified, sustainable funding models. Tune in to discover how visionary social...

Nonprofit leaders often struggle to identify and engage the right supporters, leaving valuable philanthropic opportunities untapped. Building sustainable donor growth requires a grounded approach to prospect research that goes far deeper than net worth or basic online search results. In this episode, Elanna Giang, Director of Research and Analytics at The Discovery Group, shares actionable insights on how fundraising teams can transform raw data into meaningful relationships. She explores the practical applications and hidden dangers of AI in donor identification, why values alignment outweighs financial capacity, and how involving researchers in early strategy sessions empowers organizations to connect with...

The social profit sector is undergoing significant shifts, demanding that leaders distinguish between what is truly important and what is merely urgent. In this final episode of season 10, host Douglas Nelson reflects on the core themes that have surfaced throughout the season, offering a roadmap for organizations ready to embrace transformation. By anchoring in abundance and rethinking board governance, leaders can move beyond scarcity and build for long-term impact. Join us as we explore how these insights can help your organization find its next gear and thrive in a dynamic environment.

Mastering nonprofit leadership strategies requires a unique blend of emotional intelligence, adaptability, and governance expertise. In this episode, we sit down with four distinguished nonprofit CEOs—Jennifer Gillivan (IWK Foundation), Sharon Avery (Toronto Foundation), Michael McKnight (United Way of British Columbia), and Wendy Beauchesne (Alberta Cancer Foundation)—to explore how the CEO role has evolved over recent years. From navigating the complexities of post-pandemic hybrid work to building trust-based relationships with volunteer boards, these leaders share candid advice on what it truly takes to succeed. Discover the power of creating a “North Star,” the importance of strategic patience, and the art...

Transformational change within the social profit sector is not an overnight success story. It requires a strategic plan, deep internal alignment, and courageous preparation long before the public celebration begins. In this episode, host Douglas Nelson joins senior Discovery Group team members Jen Rose, Christoph Clodius, and Ainsley Dowle to unpack key insights from their recent Discovery Dialogues. They explore the critical role of listening, the necessity of repeating the vision, and why effective leadership is often about empowering your people to execute. Whether you are leading a large organization or a small team, this discussion provides the framework...

Katherine Pui, the Associate Vice-President of Philanthropy at the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, shares her transition from a medical background to full-time healthcare fundraising. She highlights the strategic importance of major gifts and how they drive innovation within the provincial hospital network. Katherine explains the player-coach model of her new leadership role and why it is critical for meeting ambitious campaign goals. She offers a look into the foundation’s collaborative culture and why this position represents a rare, historic opportunity for a fundraising leader. Listeners get a clear picture of what success looks like in this high-impact, donor-focused en...

Achieving transformational change is a universal goal for nonprofit leaders, but it requires more than just scaling programs or ambitious growth plans. In this episode, we dive into what it actually takes to navigate organizational shifts, build alignment, and sustain momentum. Join us as we sit down with Kelly Cole, President and CEO of Sunnybrook Foundation, and Aaron Sanderson, CEO of Kids Help Phone Foundation. They share their candid insights on leading through transformation, managing board expectations, and the discipline required to move big ideas forward. Whether you are leading a community-based nonprofit or a national organization, discover how...

It is quite ironic to use AI tools to help human skills, but one company out there is doing exactly just that. Douglas Nelson sits down with Tadzio Smith, Co-Founder and CEO of Rapport, where they tap into the human side of AI to increase the emotional intelligence and people skills within organizations. He explains how technology can help build more timely and effective human interaction to prevent burnout, improve collaboration, and boost productivity. Discover why humans still have a great place to work in today’s highly digital world because of their authenticity and clarity.

Traditional philanthropy in Canada has long been defined by transactions, KPIs, and metrics. But what happens when we shift the focus toward relationships, reciprocity, and the long-term stewardship of the next seven generations?

Today, we sit down with Emily Cabrera, Executive Director of RAVEN (Respecting Aboriginal Values and Environmental Needs), to explore what it truly means to be a “philanthropy-forward” leader in the Indigenous-led sector. As we navigate the complex, often clunky systems of charitable giving, Cabrera offers a roadmap for moving beyond the transactional—advocating for a model rooted in accountability, trust, and shared...

Closing the systemic healthcare gap for First Nations communities requires more than government support; it demands a radical shift toward self-determined, community-led philanthropy. In this conversation, we are joined by Nathania Fung, inaugural CEO, and Dr. Ruth Williams, Board Chair of the First Nations Health Foundation, to explore how they are bridging critical funding and knowledge gaps across British Columbia. By grounding their work in holistic wellness, cultural wisdom, and trust-based relationships, they illustrate how a community-driven approach can accelerate infrastructure development and empower Indigenous leadership. Listeners will gain insights into the necessity of moving beyond traditional funding models...

Building a just future requires commitment, not just a single moment. In this special episode, we sit down with Sarah Midanik, President and CEO of The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, to explore the crucial work of reconciliation in Canada. As a proud member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Sarah is deeply committed to bridging cultural understanding. She discusses the legacy of The Secret Path, the non-linear nature of this work, and how her organization continues building momentum for reconciliation—from classrooms to boardrooms—by providing vital educational tools and fostering “reconcili-actions”. Tune in for a powerful exercise...

The Canadian Mental Health Association BC (CMHA BC) is at a pivotal moment, having grown into a $65 million powerhouse of community care. Now, they are seeking a highly strategic and mission-driven leader to step into the brand-new Chief Programs Officer (CPO) role.

In this exclusive interview, CMHA BC CEO Jonny Morris opens up about the organization’s transformative impact—from innovative, community-led crisis teams that avoid police involvement to provincial-wide employment services. He details why the CPO role is critical, describing it as the “engine of our programs and services,” requiring an agile, strategic collabor...

In the social profit sector, solving the world’s “knottiest problems” requires more than just good intentions—it demands true social profit innovation. But what happens when proven, life-saving solutions exist, yet never reach the millions who need them most?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Karlee Silver, President and CEO of Grand Challenges Canada, an organization that has marshaled over $500 million to support game-changing ideas, touching 100 million lives globally. Dr. Silver challenges the conventional view of innovation, defining it as a broad spectrum that includes social and business ingenuity—not just technology...

Are you looking to transform your organization’s financial future and embed philanthropy into its DNA?

Today, we sit down with Chad Holtum, Head of School at Glenlyon Norfolk School (GNS), to uncover the secrets behind their monumental fundraising success. Chad shares the journey of transforming GNS’s parent participation in annual giving from a modest 10% to over 60%, culminating in the successful completion of a $27 million capital campaign.

Whether you are starting a fundraising program or planning your next multi-million-dollar initiative—like GNS’s forthcoming $30 million Momentum Campaign—you will gain act...

Is your organization truly ready for the big leap? While every leader desires transformation, many are unprepared for the complex commitment it truly demands. In this powerful conversation, two top-tier leaders who have successfully navigated monumental change—Angela Chapman, President and CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, and Deb Lester, CEO of Covenant House Vancouver—share their candid stories. They delve into the distinction between simply wanting change and being strategically prepared to get big things done.

From spearheading a $65 million capital expansion and doubling bed space to leading major institutional development and fundraising for...

In today’s fast-paced world full of unnecessary noise and grind, mentors are expected to give the breather everyone desperately needs. Douglas Nelson is joined by coach, social entrepreneur, and leadership practitioner Ian Chisholm, who explains why mentorship requires silence and calmness. He discusses why mentors should create spaces where everyone can learn with intention, purpose, and gratitude. Ian also talks about the service-first mentality, the Cinderella moment, the Athena signature, Zugunruhe, and other powerful concepts that make mentorship an essential stepping stone towards becoming a more empowered version of yourself.

The role of a Campaign Director is a rare opportunity to move beyond traditional fundraising and lead a transformative shift in how a community addresses mental health and housing stability. Keir Macdonald, CEO of Coast Mental Health, joins the conversation to detail how this specific leadership position will bridge the gap between provincial support and philanthropic vision to create a first of its kind integrated care model. This position is designed for a collaborative strategist ready to move past reactionary crisis response and toward a legacy of prevention and long term recovery. It is a call for someone who va...

In a world where public funding for healthcare often covers the essentials but leaves a gap for transformative growth, how can philanthropy become the true catalyst for change?

Today, we connect with Paul Rossmann, President and CEO of the Calgary Health Foundation. Paul leads one of Alberta’s most significant healthcare fundraising organizations. He reveals how his team is strategically bringing together donors and clinicians to drive profound improvements in patient care and outcomes. Paul discusses his journey from financial services to post-secondary, and now into the rewarding, high-impact world of major gift fundraising in h...

In an era where healthcare demands are outpacing traditional capital and public funding, philanthropic organizations must evolve—and fast. The Oakville Hospital Foundation is doing just that. Join us as CEO Mary McPherson shares the blueprint for their massive revenue growth, transforming from a post-campaign slump of $8-9 million to nearly $23 million annually. Discover how a strategic pivot to Major Gifts and innovative approaches to Planned Giving became the engine of their success. Mary discusses the vital importance of authentic donor conversations, a “no BS” team culture, and a pioneering method of “unlocking assets” to build sustainable, long-term funding for clinical e...

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...

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 independe...

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 ta...

Imagine a conservation portfolio the size of 180 Stanley Parks, and then imagine being the person tasked with growing it. The Nature Trust of British Columbia is at a critical crossroads, moving from government-heavy funding to a future driven by private philanthropic vision. To lead this evolution, they are searching for a Director of Development, Marketing, and Communications, a role designed for a leader who wants to deliver results that can be seen, felt, and protected for generations.

Join CEO Dr. Jasper Lament as he discusses the urgency of the biodiversity crisis and the “conservation toolbo...

In the high-stakes world of healthcare philanthropy, few opportunities offer the chance to build a legacy from the ground up. Lions Gate Hospital Foundation (LGHF)—a small but mighty team responsible for massive capital campaigns like the $127 million Paul Myers Tower—is creating a Director of Philanthropy role. This isn’t just a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of major gift fundraising and transform patient care for the entire North Shore community.

In an exclusive interview, LGHF President and CEO Judy Savage shares why now is the time for this new role, ho...

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 powe...

The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) is searching for its next Executive Director—a pivotal role that goes far beyond traditional association management.

Are you ready to join a passionate, “fun, nerdy, quirky, cool” team of professionals dedicated to solving some of Canada’s most pressing challenges? In this spotlight episode, CSLA President Matthew Mills and Board Member Teri Cantin peel back the layers on the profession and the association, revealing why this is a unique leadership opportunity.

Discover how the new Executive Director will:

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 poli...

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...

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 ri...

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 mind...