Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Cause Leadership Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thriving in Uncertainty: The Key to Transformational Leadership | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:18:47 | |
https://causeleadership.com/leadership-podcast/Hosted on March 27, 2025, the purpose of The Charity Leader Summit was to provide charity leaders with examples of the best mindsets for overcoming leadership challenges.
At Cause leadership, we have helped 100s of charities find their next senior leader, and we have learned firsthand how the right leadership mindsets help shape the strongest team cultures and dynamic.
In this episode, Dave Hutchinson speaks with Fred Witteveen, CEO of Children Believe on the topic of Adaptive Resilience – Thriving through change and leading organizational change.
In this conversation, Fred discusses the significant changes and challenges faced by the organization, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares insights on navigating organizational change, adapting culture, and the importance of financial resilience through diversification of funding sources. Fred highlights that embracing uncertainty requires recognizing opportunities amidst challenges and can lead to innovative solutions. He also emphasizes the need for strong leadership, celebrating wins, and fostering a collaborative environment to thrive in uncertain times.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Fred Witteveen and Children Believe | |||
| Adaptive Resilience in Charity Leadership | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:17:59 | |
Summary: Hosted on March 27, 2025, the purpose of The Charity Leader Summit was to provide charity leaders with examples of the best mindsets for overcoming leadership challenges. At Cause leadership, we have helped 100s of charities find their next senior leader, and we have learned firsthand how the right leadership mindsets help shape the strongest team cultures and dynamic. In this episode, Dave Hutchinson speaks with Stacey Palmer, President & CEO of Prison Fellowship Canada on the topic of Adaptive Resilience – Thriving through change and uncertainty and overcoming team conflict. In this conversation, Stacey shares her insights on leadership in the charitable sector, particularly in navigating change and conflict. She discusses the challenges faced during the pandemic, the importance of innovation, and strategies for fostering a positive organizational culture. Stacey emphasizes the need for adaptability and resilience in the face of external pressures. She highlights the significance of investing in people and relationships as crucial for organizational success. Stacey also stresses the importance of building a positive attitude toward change which leads to better outcomes, and she explains why leaders should prioritize mission over method.
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Leadership in Charity
Connect with Stacey:
The Charity Leader Summit full video: | |||
| Balancing Good: Supporting Parental Leave and Strengthening Organizations | 01 Feb 2025 | 00:25:58 | |
Introduction Welcome to the Cause Leadership Podcast with host Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Lacey Kempinski. As Founder and CEO of Balanced Good, Lacey and her team works with non-profits and charities to help increase fundraising capacity and help fundraising organizations find balance in their day-to-day and strategic activities. Balanced Good provides hands-on parental leave coverage and planning for roles within the non-profit sector. From leadership to generalist “do-it-all” roles, Balanced Good team members integrate into organizations to make sure all deadlines are met and projects are completed. Their objective is for parental leave to be a celebrated life milestone, not a feared employment gap.
Summary In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, Dave Hutchinson interviews Lacey Kempinski, Founder and CEO of Balanced Good, a pioneering organization that provides parental leave coverage in the nonprofit sector. Lacey shares her journey into entrepreneurship, the challenges faced by leaders in the charitable sector, and the importance of supporting employees during maternity leave. The conversation highlights the realities of burnout, the need for realistic workloads, and the significance of creating a supportive work environment for parents. Lacey emphasizes the importance of boundaries and self-care, and discusses how Balanced Good is addressing these issues while fostering a values-driven culture.
Chapters
Connect with Lacey: https://www.linkedin.com/company/balanced-good/ https://www.instagram.com/balancedgood/
| |||
| From Digital to Intelligent: The AI-Driven Future of Transformation | 03 Jan 2025 | 00:46:27 | |
Introduction: Welcome to the Cause Leadership Podcast with host Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Smita Challu Tulsani.
Smita is a purpose-driven accomplished executive leader with 20 years of global corporate experience, specializing in data-driven transformative consulting, strategic marketing, and human-centered customer experience. With a sharp focus on digital-first, data-led methodologies, Smita stands out for her proficiency in advising c-suite executives on revenue generation, business strategy, and sustainable business outcomes.
As a Global MarTech Leader, she drives the integration of AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics to revolutionize customer experiences and operational efficiency.
With a diverse background spanning sectors like social impact, telecom, manufacturing, and media, Smita's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement shines through her involvement in various boards such as the Cambridge Memorial Hospital Foundation and industry bodies like the Canadian Marketing Association, Women in AI, and the Canadian Australian Chamber of Commerce. Recognized for her contributions, she has received multiple industry awards and was shortlisted for the Women of the Year award by Women in IT.
Smita holds a Chartered Marketer designation, in addition to her bachelor's degree in engineering and MBA, adding to her well-rounded skillset and dedication to continuous growth.
Summary In this conversation, David Hutchinson and Smita Challu Tulsani discuss the critical role of digital transformation in the charitable sector. Smita shares her journey from technology to social impact, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology for fundraising and communication. They explore the integration of AI in nonprofits, the challenges of cybersecurity, and the need for effective change management. Smita also highlights the importance of talent acquisition and the evolving landscape of skills required in the sector. The discussion concludes with advice for smaller organizations on how to navigate digital transformation effectively.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Digital Transformation in Charities 03:11 Smita's Journey from Technology to Nonprofit 05:38 The Blurring Lines Between CTOs & CMOs 08:53 The Role of AI in the Charitable Sector 11:41 Governance and Ethical Use of AI 14:27 Cybersecurity Concerns in Nonprofits 17:08 Questions for C-Suite and Board Members 24:01 Embracing AI in the Charitable Sector 27:27 Talent Acquisition Challenges in Nonprofits 30:28 Building a Data-Driven Culture 33:43 Competing for MarTech Talent 38:44 Navigating Change Management 41:50 Strategies for Smaller Organizations
Connect with Smita https://www.linkedin.com/company/linkloop-ai/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/smitachallutulsani/
| |||
| Embracing Ambition | 30 Nov 2024 | 00:44:44 | |
Introduction: Welcome to the Cause Leadership Podcast with host Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Jenny Mitchell. Founder and President of Chavender, Jenny Mitchell (CFRE, DMA), works closely with not-for-profit leaders to change the world - one mission at a time. Chavender assists clients, across Canada and the U.S., to inspire their donors and achieve their fundraising goals through personalized fundraising coaching and training. Jenny is a speaker, author, executive coach, podcaster, and professional fundraiser who is passionate about inspiring the very best in others. She completed her Executive Coaching Training at Royal Roads University. She has worked with hundreds of CEOs, executive directors, and high-profile executives on boards of directors across Canada. With Jenny’s coaching and consulting help, her clients have raised millions of dollars in support of their charitable missions. A sought-after keynote speaker, Jenny has presented at major Fundraising Leadership Conferences across North America. She launched her solo podcast in July 2022 entitled Underdog Leadership. Through this platform, she brings stories about the power of leadership, and fundraising as agents of change for the world that we live in. Jenny is a lifelong learner, and actively seeks out people and situations that expand her experiences and her knowledge. Jenny’s book, Embracing Ambition which is available on Amazon, launched in March 2024 and features stories and research from 12 women CEOs across North America. Before completing her CFRE (certified fund raising executive) Jenny trained as a classical musician and earned her Doctor of Musical Arts. She brings her creative approach, her drive for excellence, and her passion for people to the world of not-for-profits.
Summary: In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, host Dave interviews Jenny Mitchell, an accomplished artist, fundraiser, author, and executive coach. They discuss Jenny's journey from a classical musician to a leader in the nonprofit sector, exploring themes of ambition, underdog leadership, and the complexities of fundraising. Jenny shares experiences as a board chair, her insights on the importance of reflection, the challenges women face in leadership roles, and the significance of adaptability in both personal and professional growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for bold leadership, the complexities of fundraising, and the evolving definition of ambition, particularly for women in leadership roles.
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Jenny Mitchell
Resources Mentioned: https://chavender.com/embracing-ambition-the-book/ https://chavender.com/the-penthouse/
Connect with Jenny: | |||
| Harnessing the Power of Data and Analytics in Fundraising | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:53:06 | |
Introduction: Welcome to the Cause Leadership Podcast with host Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Allen Davidov.
Allen is the Senior Vice President, Sales Practice & Marketing Leader at Environics Analytics, where he focuses on the not-for-profit, energy, transportation, and public sectors. With nearly two decades of experience in marketing, analytics, and fundraising, Allen has a proven track record of helping organizations unlock the value of information for smarter decision-making and strategic growth.
Before his role at Environics Analytics, Allen led impactful marketing and fundraising initiatives at esteemed organizations like the Sinai Health Foundation and Habitat for Humanity GTA, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation Ontario Region, St. John’s Rehab Hospital Foundation at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and North York General Hospital Foundation.
He’s not only a dedicated professional in his field but also an active contributor to the community, serving on the Canadian Marketing Association’s Not-For-Profit Council, volunteering with the Canadian Association of Gift Planners, and a member of Seneca College’s Marketing Advisory Council.
Allen holds an MBA from the University of Liverpool, a Bachelor of Commerce from Toronto Metropolitan University, and a Creative Advertising diploma from Centennial College, and a Chartered Marketer certificate from the Canadian Marketing Association, showcasing his commitment to excellence in marketing.
Summary: In this insightful episode, Dave sits down with Allen to explore his career journey through the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing emerging leaders in the charitable space, focusing on how they can make a meaningful impact.
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 07:13 Challenges and Opportunities for Emerging Leaders 15:18 Environics Analytics and Data Analytics in the Nonprofit Sector 22:11 Key Takeaways from the CanadaHelps Giving Report 27:00 Rethinking Fundraising Strategies and Building Connections 30:27 Understanding Donor Base and Connecting to Their Values 32:19 Talent Shifts and Opportunities in the Charitable Sector 46:23 Partnerships for Sustainability and Social Impact 51:43 Investing in Career Development and Mentorship in the Sector
Resources Mentioned: Canada Helps Giving Report: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/the-giving-report/ Environics Analytics: https://environicsanalytics.com/en-ca/home
Connect with Allen: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allendavidov E-mail: Allen.Davidov@environicsanalytics.com
| |||
| Engaging Next Gen Leaders in Charity | 26 Aug 2024 | 00:53:19 | |
Introduction: The Cause Leadership Podcast with host Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Andy Harrington, the Executive Director of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. The Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of 15 Canadian church denominations and agencies with a goal to end global hunger. Partnering with locally based organizations in majority world countries, the organization seeks to meet emergency food needs in crisis situations, achieve long term sustainable solutions to hunger, and works to foster informed action by Canadians and governments to support relief and development efforts around this international cause. Andy has over thirty five years of experience working in international development and with youth and young adults around the world. Prior to joining the Foodgrains Bank, he was the CEO of the Wellspring Foundation for Education, an organization with a mission to transform education in East Africa and to foster vibrant communities that address poverty in all its forms. He and his wife Helen along with their two children spent two years during the conflict in Croatia and Bosnia, working with children traumatized by the war, and he has led projects in a number of other countries, including as part of the relief efforts for the Asian Tsunami disaster. Andy, writes and speaks extensively on a number of issues including the need for a just society and respectful leadership. He has a Masters degree in Missiology and can regularly be found motorbiking or hiking in places like Alaska and Africa.
Summary Our guest, Andy Harrington, the Executive Director of the Canadian Food Grains Bank, discusses his role and the organization's mission to end global hunger. He shares his career journey in the charitable sector, from working with at-risk youth to leading education initiatives in Africa. Andy highlights the challenges and opportunities in the charitable sector, including the breakdown of civil discourse and the need for flexibility, authenticity, and trust in organizations. He also emphasizes the importance of engaging younger generations in leadership roles and board positions to ensure the future success of charities. Dave and Andy discuss the importance of leadership in the nonprofit sector. Andy emphasizes the need for leaders to engage their teams and build trust, especially during times of crisis. Harrington shares his experiences in Sri Lanka and Bosnia, highlighting the importance of caring for the team while dealing with a crisis. Dave and Andy also speak about the significance of self-care for leaders and offer advice on transitioning into a new leadership role. Harrington concludes by discussing the value of mentorship and how younger leaders can seek guidance and support.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Andy Harrington's Role and Canadian Food Grains Bank 13:03 Challenges in the Charitable Sector 15:47 Opportunities in the Charitable Sector 18:15 Engaging Younger Generations in Leadership Roles 21:38 The Importance of Flexibility, Authenticity, and Trust in Leadership 25:39 Diversity and Effective Governance in Charities 28:19 Engaging Teams and Building Trust 30:07 Leadership in Extreme Situations 34:29 Caring for Staff in Charitable Work 36:44 Creating a Supportive Work Environment 39:18 The Importance of Self-Care 42:56 Transitioning into a New Leadership Role 50:56 The Value of Mentorship | |||
| Collaboration, Digital Transformation & Sustainable Growth for Charities | 27 Jun 2024 | 00:45:30 | |
Introduction The Cause Leadership Podcast with host Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Duke Chang, President and CEO of CanadaHelps.
Duke is an accomplished executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in financial services and technology, transforming businesses through innovation and product-led growth. Before joining CanadaHelps, Duke served as the Worldwide Head of Product, Business Development, and Customer Experience for Lenovo Solutions and Services Group where he built and scaled the broad solution portfolio to support Lenovo's $3 billion business.
Duke He has endless enthusiasm to diversify the impact of CanadaHelps’ technologies and drive innovation. He focuses his priorities at CanadaHelps on enhancements that will empower Canadians to easily support their favourite causes and delivering real value in particular to small- and medium-sized charities, allowing them to grow their fundraising results and advance on their digital transformation journeys.
Summary Our guest, Duke Chang, President and CEO of CanadaHelps, discusses his transition from the corporate space to the charitable sector and the challenges and opportunities he has encountered.
Dave and Duke speak about the need for collaboration and centralization in the charitable sector, and the goal of CanadaHelps to assist with economies of scale for charities. Duke also highlights the importance of digital skills and capabilities in the sector, particularly in terms of cybersecurity.
Dave and Duke discuss the talent pool in the charitable sector and the need for organizations to offer meaning, purpose, and work-life balance to attract and retain talent. They also address the leadership transition from Boomers to Millennials and the role of mentorship in developing emerging leaders.
In this conversation, Duke discusses the challenges and opportunities in the charitable sector. He emphasizes the importance of leadership during times of adversity and highlights the need for leaders to have a clear North Star for their teams.
Dave and Duke also review the key elements of success for fundraisers, including the ability to communicate the impact of donations and the importance of diversifying revenue streams. They explore the value of corporate partnerships and the alignment between sustainability and the charitable sector.
Duke concludes by sharing his excitement about CanadaHelps' mission to build generosity in Canada and make the sector more operationally efficient.
Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Transition: Corporate Space to Charitable Sector 02:25 Challenges and Opportunities in the Charitable Sector 06:15 The Impact of Technology and Digital Skills 12:40 Talent Market Dynamics in the Charitable Sector 25:30 Navigating Adversity: Leading Teams Through Tough Times 29:00 The Future of Fundraising: Key Elements of Success 30:30 Corporate Partnerships: Building True Alliances 35:15 Revenue Diversification and Talent Development in the Charitable Sector
| |||
| Taking a Chance on Emerging Leaders | 03 Jun 2024 | 00:50:34 | |
Introduction The Cause Leadership Podcast with host, Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Jeff Beach, the CEO of Asthma Canada.
Jeff is a seasoned leader in the Canadian non-profit sector with over 25 years of experience in management, community, and fund development. Jeff has held prominent roles in various organizations, including the Canadian Spondyloarthritis Association and the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. He has also contributed significantly to causes like youth mentoring, arthritis support, breast cancer awareness, and cystic fibrosis advocacy.
Jeff is deeply committed to volunteering and sits on several boards, including the Women's Brain Health Initiative and Federated Health Charities. Known for his dedication to empowering individuals facing health and social challenges, Jeff is driven by a passion for helping others achieve their full potential.
Summary Our guest, Jeff Beach, CEO of Asthma Canada, shares his leadership journey and insights into the charitable sector. He emphasizes the importance of having the right people in the right roles and prioritizing the organization's mission and values.
Jeff and Dave also discuss the evolving landscape of fundraising and the challenges faced by the sector, such as declining giving and increased demand for services. Jeff highlights the need for organizations to adapt to changing donor expectations and build strong relationships.
Jeff offers advice for emerging leaders, including being open to opportunities and investing in professional development.
Dave and Jeff consider the role of boards and the importance of succession planning. They discuss the need for adding new board members and succession planning in nonprofit organizations. Jeff suggests bringing people onto committees as a way to get to know them and assess their leadership skills before considering them for a board role.
Jeff and Dave emphasize the need for organizations to consider talent from outside the charitable sector and the potential benefits of mergers and amalgamations. Additionally, they address the issue of sector compensation and the importance of fair compensation for nonprofit professionals.
Finally, Jeff shares insights into the work of Asthma Canada, including their focus on patient education, advocacy, and research.
Support If you would like to follow or support Asthma Canada: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asthma-society-of-canada/
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Jeff Beach 01:45 Embracing Opportunities and Challenges in Your Leadership Journey 06:23 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Fundraising 08:08 Building Strong Relationships with Donors and Volunteers 09:10 Transitioning into Leadership in Today’s Environment 13:45 Advice for Emerging Leaders 21:58 The Importance of Succession Planning in the Charitable Sector 30:15 Succession Planning and Talent Acquisition 32:19 Exploring Mergers and Amalgamations 38:19 Compensation in the Charitable Sector 44:41 Asthma Canada: Patient Education, Advocacy, and Research | |||
| Growing Your Team Internally | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:37:58 | |
Introduction The Cause Leadership Podcast with host Dave Hutchinson. In this episode, Dave is joined by Sandra Hawken, the CEO of Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation. Sandra is a values-based leader, who is dedicated to inclusivity and empowerment. Since joining Holland Bloorview in 2015, Sandra together with her team has spearheaded remarkable growth, increasing the supporter base by over 1000% and doubling annual fundraising. Her visionary leadership launched ground-breaking initiatives like the Capes for Kids program, raising over $7 million dollars and inspiring a national movement for disability inclusion. With a track record of raising over $150 million for equity-focused charities, Sandra's impact resonates beyond her role at Holland Bloorview. If you would like to support Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, visit Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation Summary Sandra shares her career progression from the private sector to the charitable sector, specifically in feminist organizations and the transition into healthcare philanthropy. She discusses the challenges she faced in transitioning to the healthcare sector and the importance of diversity and inclusion in leadership. We asked Sandra to share about her hiring practices, including the focus on values alignment and creating growth opportunities for younger talent. She emphasizes the need for organizations to invest in their employees' careers and cultivate a culture of belonging. Sandra shares her perspective on leadership in the charitable space today and the complexities it entails. We discuss the importance of building a strong organizational culture and investing in leadership development. Sandra emphasizes the value of open communication, mentorship programs, and continuous learning opportunities. We also address the challenge of compensation in the charitable sector and learn how Holland Bloorview addresses it through transparency and non-monetary benefits. Hear about Holland Bloorview’s mission to increase disability inclusion and reduce stigma, and the impact they make through healthcare, research, and community programs. Sandra's leadership and collaborative approach contribute to the success of Holland Bloorview and the sector as a whole. Chapters 05:50 - What is it like to lead in the charitable space today? 09:20 - Advice for those looking to make the shift into senior executive roles in the charitable sector. 10:50 - Perspectives & practices for growing talent & hiring from within. 15:20 - Attracting younger talent and helping them transition to this space. 23:20 - Addressing the limiting factor of charity budgets. 26:37 - Non-monetary incentives for employees.
Mentioned in this Show Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation
| |||
| Global Values, Local Action: Aki Temiseva’s Journey to Purpose-Driven Leadership | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:40:45 | |
Summary In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, Dave Hutchinson interviews Aki Temiseva, the President and CEO of the United Nations Association in Canada. Aki shares his diverse background, including his upbringing in Zambia and extensive experience in both the corporate and charitable sectors. The conversation explores Aki’s leadership journey, the importance of youth engagement in the charitable sector, and the challenges faced by leaders today. Aki emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt and rethink their structures to attract and retain talent, particularly younger generations. He also discusses the role of the United Nations Association in Canada and its mission to promote peace, human rights, and sustainable development.
Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aki Temiseva and Leadership Journey 05:56 Early Leadership Experiences and Youth Engagement 11:01 Transition from Corporate to Charitable Sector 18:48 Navigating Cultural Differences in Leadership 26:52 The Role of the United Nations Association in Canada 34:57 Challenges in the Charitable Sector and Future Leadership
Guest Bio: Aki Temiseva, President & CEO, United Nations Association in Canada. Born in Finland and raised in Zambia, Aki Temiseva is a visionary leader with over 30 years of experience building businesses and non-profits across four continents. Aki thrives in organizations that, like him, dare to dream big and disrupt the status quo for a reason: to create tangible solutions that measurably improve people’s lives and build a more peaceful world for everyone.
Aki was named as the President and CEO of United Nations Association in Canada September (2024). Aki has served as Chief Marketing and Development Officer for Children Believe, a cutting-edge leader in children’s education worldwide, where he led their fundraising, marketing, communications and public relations. Before Children Believe, Aki served as Global Vice President, Philanthropy at Right to Play, a Toronto based global INGO using the power of play to transform lives of children and youth across the globe. Before coming to Canada, he ran both local and global corporations and organizations in US, UK and the Nordics, delivering unprecedented growth from start-ups to Fortune 500 corporations (Procter & Gamble, Publicis Group) and global development organizations like World Vision and ChildFund, as well as his own consultancy out of London, UK.
Aki excels at turning the seemingly impossible into “we did it.” He motivates and unites teams behind a growth vision, simplifying the complex and focusing on what really counts. Aki delivers results founded on innovative, winning strategies, bringing down silos in the process and building bridges where none existed. He has said his current role at UNAC allows him to push his life-long agenda of hope, reconciliation and bringing people together -even from seemingly impossible situations.
Aki holds an MSc in international marketing from Finland’s Aalto University. Tri-lingual in Finnish, Swedish and English, he has lived in Africa, Asia, Scandinavia, the U.K. and the U.S.A. prior to making a home with his family in Toronto.
Connecting with Aki: https://www.linkedin.com/company/united-nations-association-in-canada/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/akitemiseva/
| |||
| The Giving Report 2024: Exploring the Latest Trends in Charitable Giving | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:40:43 | |
Summary In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, David Hutchinson engages with Julie Fiorini, General Manager, Donor Services & Brand at CanadaHelps, and Allen Davidov, Senior Vice President & Practice Leader of Environics Analytics. They discuss the recently published 2024 Giving Report and explore unexpected trends in charitable giving, the impact of economic factors on donor behavior, and the significant shift towards local giving. The conversation also highlights the importance of digital fundraising, geographic patterns in philanthropy, and strategies for improving donor retention. The episode concludes with insights on the future of charitable giving and the role of organizations like CanadaHelps in fostering generosity across Canada.
Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Giving Report 01:21 Unexpected Trends in Charitable Giving 04:12 The Impact of Economic Factors on Donor Behavior 08:10 Shifts in Generosity: Local vs. National Giving 12:41 Digital Transformation in Charitable Donations 23:00 Geographic Patterns in Philanthropy 26:16 Donor Retention vs. Acquisition Strategies 31:58 Metrics for Charity Leaders' Success 33:24 The Rise of Giving Tuesday in Canada 35:44 Insights from the Giving Report 38:31 Understanding Donor Behavior 42:50 Navigating Challenges in the Charitable Sector 44:26 The Importance of Talent in Fundraising
| |||
| Authentic Leadership in Action: From Bargains to Big Impact | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:35:42 | |
Introduction
As President and CBO (Chief Bargain Officer) of the Bargains Group, Jody Steinhauer has mobilized her award-winning discount wholesale and promotional products company to revolutionize the business landscape.
As a Canadian female entrepreneur, Jody uses her network of resources and leveraged buying power to aid every company and not-for-profit agency that she touches to maximize their buying dollar. Since 1988, Jody has grown Bargains Group from her apartment to a multi-million-dollar-a-year business. She is also often sought out for speaking engagements due to her successful entrepreneurial business experience, and has been featured in various media outlets, and is an official Huffington Post blogger.
Pioneering her belief of “giving back makes good business sense”, Jody is a tireless not-for-profit advocate, and the founder of the national charity, Engage and Change, and its two annual initiatives, Project Winter Survival and Project Water. Through these projects, Engage and Change helps thousands of homeless throughout Toronto and the surrounding area survive the extreme weather conditions while engaging and enabling citizens of all ages to donate their time to their local community through sponsored group engagement events.
Jody’s business has expanded to include a social enterprise wing: Kits for a Cause. With a focus on social impact, Jody has built a model for companies to support their local community. Kits for a Cause provides turn-key solutions for businesses to engage their employees while solving local community services’ needs for resources. Her model of “brokering goodness” has worked with some of the top industry leaders in both the corporate and philanthropic spheres.
Summary In this inspiring episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, host David Hutchinson sits down with social entrepreneur Jody Steinhauer, founder of The Bargains Group and Engage and Change. Jody shares her remarkable journey of building a for-profit, for-purpose business that supports countless charitable organizations and communities across Canada. Together, David and Jody explore the real-world challenges of leading in the social impact space—from navigating post-COVID funding gaps to the importance of resilience and authenticity in leadership. Jody also introduces her groundbreaking initiative, Kits For A Cause, which creatively connects corporations with frontline charities to deliver real, tangible help to those in need. Tune in to learn how purpose-driven leadership, meaningful collaboration, and bold storytelling can drive lasting change—and why encouragement and recognition matter more than ever for those leading the charge. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, or changemaker, this episode offers invaluable insights on how to lead with heart—and make a difference.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jody Steinhauer and Her Work 03:02 Navigating Leadership and Resilience 05:51 The Bargains Group: A Purpose-Driven Business 08:54 Engage and Change: A Charity with Impact 11:52 Building a Purposeful Team 14:41 Connecting Corporations and Charities 17:40 Stories of Impact and Learning 20:25 Encouraging Leaders in Challenging Times
Connecting with Jody: https://www.bargainsgroup.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodysteinhauer/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bargains-group/
| |||
| Navigating Leadership and Change: A Conversation with Michael Braithwaite | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:44:39 | |
Introduction Michael Braithwaite has over 30 years of experience creating innovative solutions to better support vulnerable people. Michael joined Blue Door in March of 2019 as CEO and has since helped launch Blue Door’s first employment social enterprise called Construct, three supportive housing programs including the first safe space for 2SLGBTQ+ youth in York Region, a national housing and homelessness podcast, a merger with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold, and is currently executing a Solutions Lab in collaboration with SHS Consulting and Habitat for Humanity to explore the journey from homelessness to homeownership.
Previously Michael worked at Raising the Roof and 360kids in York Region. As CEO of the national organization Raising the Roof, Michael launched Reside, a program to transform underutilized properties into affordable housing by engaging the social enterprise Building Up.
As Executive Director at 360kids, Michael lead the development of several innovative and collaborative initiatives including the development of the new Youth Hub, an Anti-Human Trafficking Program, the first Nightstop Housing Program in Canada, and in partnership with the York Region District School Board developed iGrad a classroom-based program whereby a teacher uses an e-learning platform to help youth complete high school.
Summary In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, Dave Hutchinson interviews Michael Braithwaite, the Chief Executive Officer of Blue Door, an organization focused on addressing homelessness and related issues in the North Toronto area. They discuss the challenges and uncertainties faced by nonprofit leaders, the importance of mentorship and governance, and the need for effective succession planning. Michael shares insights on investing in people, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the qualities that make effective leaders. The conversation also highlights Blue Door's innovative programs aimed at tackling homelessness and engaging communities in the trades, as well as the importance of long-term solutions to social issues.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Michael Braithwaite and Blue Door 03:03 Navigating Uncertainty in Nonprofit Leadership 06:22 Mentorship and Support for Emerging Leaders 09:00 The Importance of Succession Planning 12:13 Investing in People and Professional Growth 15:15 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Leadership 18:09 Qualities of Effective Leaders 21:08 Understanding Blue Door's Mission and Impact 28:09 Addressing Homelessness: Long-Term Solutions 30:12 The Importance of Skilled Trades 35:24 Success Stories in the Construct Program 38:51 Supporting Blue Door: How to Get Involved 41:50 Innovative Fundraising and Community Engagement
Connecting with Michael: | |||
| Leadership for Impact: A Conversation with David Kay | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:17:24 | |
Summary: Hosted on March 27, 2025, the purpose of The Charity Leader Summit was to provide charity leaders with examples of the best mindsets for overcoming leadership challenges.
At Cause leadership, we have helped 100s of charities find their next senior leader, and we have learned firsthand how the right leadership mindsets help shape the strongest team cultures and dynamic.
In this episode, Dave Hutchinson speaks with David Kay, Managing Partner of ProVenture Advisors on the topic of Mission-Driven Thinking – Leading with a relentless focus on impact.
In this conversation, David Kay, discusses the complexities of impact in the charitable sector, emphasizing the dual focus on delivering social needs and satisfying funders. He highlights the importance of strategic direction centered on impact, the challenges of measuring and communicating that impact, and the necessity of crisis management in maintaining public perception. David advocates for a relentless focus on impact and radical transparency for charity CEOs to navigate the evolving landscape of nonprofit work.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to ProVenture Advisors 03:11 Understanding Impact in Charities 06:24 The Complexity of Strategy and Impact 09:34 Challenges in Measuring Impact 12:11 Managing Crisis and Public Perception 17:11 Insights for Charity CEOs
| |||
| Passing the CEO Baton: The Value of a Succession Plan | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:12:17 | |
Summary: Hosted on March 27, 2025, the purpose of The Charity Leader Summit was to provide charity leaders with examples of the best mindsets for overcoming leadership challenges.
At Cause leadership, we have helped 100s of charities find their next senior leader, and we have learned firsthand how the right leadership mindsets help shape the strongest team cultures and dynamic.
In this episode, Dave Hutchinson speaks with Dave Prowten, Former CEO of Junior Diabetes Research Foundation Canada on the topic of Legacy & Succession – Building a leadership pipeline for the future.
In this conversation, Dave Prowten shares his experiences as the former CEO of JDRF, discussing the importance of leadership development, succession planning, and building trust within an organization. Having a strong team is critical to the success today and tomorrow. He reflects on his decade-long journey at JDRF, emphasizing the significance of nurturing emerging leaders and the processes involved in transitioning leadership roles. Dave also highlights the feedback received post-transition and offers insights on fostering trust between board members and organizational leaders.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to JDRF and Leadership Journey 03:09 Developing Emerging Leaders 06:13 Succession Planning Insights 09:00 Transitioning Leadership 12:17 Building Trust in Leadership | |||
| Partnerships in Elder Care: Christie Gardens and U of T's Collaborative Approach | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:12:06 | |
Summary: Hosted on March 27, 2025, the purpose of The Charity Leader Summit was to provide charity leaders with examples of the best mindsets for overcoming leadership challenges.
At Cause leadership, we have helped 100s of charities find their next senior leader, and we have learned firsthand how the right leadership mindsets help shape the strongest team cultures and dynamic.
In this episode, Dave Hutchinson speaks with Heather Janes, CEO of Christie Gardens Apartments & Care Community on the topic of Partnership & Influence - Expanding impact through collaboration without losing mission focus.
In this conversation, Heather discusses the mission of empowering elders to live well, the importance of partnerships, particularly Christie Gardens’ partnership with the University of Toronto, and the challenges and innovations in elder care leadership post-COVID. Effective leadership in elder care requires adaptability and boldness. She emphasizes the need for advocacy against ageism and the value of intergenerational connections.
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Christie Gardens and Elder Care 02:52 Empowering Elders: The Mission of Christie Gardens 05:46 Innovative Partnerships: Collaborating with U of T 07:45 The Impact of COVID-19 on Elder Care Leadership
Connecting with Heather: https://www.christiegardens.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-janes22/ | |||
| Health Partners: A Model for Collaboration & Collective Success | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:16:47 | |
Summary: Hosted on March 27, 2025, the purpose of The Charity Leader Summit was to provide charity leaders with examples of the best mindsets for overcoming leadership challenges.
At Cause leadership, we have helped 100s of charities find their next senior leader, and we have learned firsthand how the right leadership mindsets help shape the strongest team cultures and dynamic.
In this episode, Dave Hutchinson speaks with Kimberley Hanson, CEO of Health Partners on the topic of Partnership & Influence - Expanding impact through collaboration without losing mission focus.
In this conversation, Kimberley shares her diverse career journey from financial services to leading Health Partners, a collaborative of national health charities. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships in the charitable sector, especially in light of changing donor demographics and the challenges faced by leaders in the non-profit space. Partnerships are essential for resource stretching in charities. Kimberley discusses the need for innovation and adaptation to engage new generations of donors while maintaining a focus on collective goals and mutual support among member organizations.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kimberley Hanson and Her Career Journey 05:45 The Role of Health Partners in Charitable Collaboration 10:47 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Philanthropy 14:18 The Future of Mergers and Collaborations in the Nonprofit Sector 15:39 Growth and New Partnerships at Health Partners
Connecting with Kimberley: https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthpartners-partenairesante/posts/?feedView=all https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberley-hanson-a7627420/
| |||
| Financial Stewardship in Action: Leading Food Banks through Crisis | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:21:13 | |
Summary: Hosted on March 27, 2025, the purpose of The Charity Leader Summit was to provide charity leaders with examples of the best mindsets for overcoming leadership challenges.
At Cause leadership, we have helped 100s of charities find their next senior leader, and we have learned firsthand how the right leadership mindsets help shape the strongest team cultures and dynamic.
In this episode, Dave Hutchinson speaks with Meghan Nicholls, CEO of Food Banks Mississauga on the topic of Financial Stewardship – Navigating funding and sustainability wisely.
In this conversation, Meghan discusses the challenges faced by food banks in the context of rising food insecurity in Canada. She shares insights on leadership, financial stewardship, the importance of community support, and the role of government in addressing the root causes of food insecurity. The conversation highlights the need for authentic communication with boards, the mental health challenges faced by nonprofit leaders, and the potential for mergers and collaborations in the nonprofit sector to enhance sustainability.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Foodbanks Mississauga and Leadership Journey 02:15 Challenges of Leading a Food Bank 05:11 Financial Sustainability and Fundraising Strategies 07:52 Mental Health and Support Systems for Nonprofit Leaders 09:42 Advice for Other CEOs in the Nonprofit Sector 11:21 Future of Food Banks: Mergers and Collaborations 14:29 The Role of Government in Food Security 17:48 Current State of Food Banks and Future Concerns | |||