Explore every episode of the podcast Civic Warriors

In this episode of Civic Warriors, host Brad Caruso sits down with Jennifer Owens, President and CEO of the Arlington Community Foundation, to discuss how community foundations help donors maximize the impact of their charitable giving and strengthen local communities. The conversation explores the growing importance of legacy planning, the ongoing transfer of wealth and how individuals, families and organizations can create lasting philanthropic impact. Jennifer also shares how community foundations work alongside professional advisors, support planned giving efforts and serve as connectors between donors, nonprofits and community needs in Arlington, Virginia.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, Brad welcomes Katie Palenzuela and MyLinh Shattan of The Night Stalker Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the soldiers and families of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR). Together, they discuss the Foundation’s mission, the unique culture of the Night Stalkers and the programs that help strengthen military families, including scholarships, resiliency initiatives, spouse support and youth camps. Katie and MyLinh also share stories about the Foundation’s growth, the impact of its work and how supporters can help preserve the legacy of those who serve.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors as we sit down with Carlos Bosques, CEO of the Food Allergy Science Initiative (FASI), a nonprofit dedicated to accelerating breakthrough discoveries that improve the lives of those living with food allergies. Listen in as Carlos discusses the growing prevalence of food allergies, current treatment options, the science behind allergic reactions and how FASI is driving innovative research through collaboration with leading laboratories across the country. Carlos also shares his personal journey to FASI, what fuels his passion for the mission, and how individuals can support the organization’s work to advance food allergy research and strengthen the community it serves.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, Brad sits down with Burton Li, CEO and Founder of Sutro Li, a professional services firm dedicated exclusively to serving nonprofit organizations. They discuss his journey into the nonprofit sector, the firm’s mission-focused approach to accounting and finance, and the evolving challenges and opportunities facing nonprofit organizations today. Burton shares insights on purpose-driven leadership, practical advice for nonprofit leaders and the personal passions that influence his work, offering a thoughtful perspective on helping mission-based organizations grow and thrive.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Scott Jackson, President and CEO of Global Impact, and Abdechafi (Chafi) Boubkir, Director of Programs at Geneva Global. Both organizations are part of Global Impact Ventures — a family of mission-driven entities working across the philanthropic ecosystem.

Scott and Chafi share their personal journeys into the not-for-profit sector and their work with Global Impact Ventures, while exploring the current landscape of international giving. They discuss the key challenges facing the global relief and development space, along with encouraging areas of progress, and highlight the effectiveness of the Speed School model. The conversation concludes with reflections on their legacies and hopes for the next generation of leaders in charitable giving.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Steve Rosenbaum, Executive Director of the Sustainable Media Center (SMC), to explore how the organization is empowering Gen Z to take an active role in shaping today’s digital world. SMC serves as a catalyst for change by partnering with young people and giving them agency over the platforms and technologies they navigate every day—from social media to generative AI.

Steve shares the journey that led him to found SMC, the mission and passion driving its work, and the evolving landscape of social media regulation. He also dives into SMC’s programs and how they’ve adapted over time, introduces his new book How AI Reshapes Reality, and reflects on Gen Z’s unique relationship with digital platforms in an increasingly AI-powered world. 

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Michael Pearson, President and CEO of Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC), a not-for-profit organization and one of the nation’s largest public health institutes.

Michael shares insights from his career, discusses his passion for PHMC’s mission to create and sustain healthier communities and highlights the wide range of programs the organization offers. He also provides advice for emerging nonprofit leaders, discusses trends shaping nonprofit mergers and acquisitions, and emphasizes the importance of strong board communication and balancing mission, strategy and execution in leadership.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Anne Grey, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.  The conversation highlights how fulfilling wishes for children with critical illnesses goes far beyond a single moment of joy—these experiences can inspire hope, strengthen families, and even encourage kids to better engage with their medical treatment. Anne shares her personal journey, insights into how the organization operates, and behind-the-scenes stories of creating meaningful wishes, while also emphasizing the broader impact on communities and how others can get involved. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Alik Hinckson, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors (RPA), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that helps donors create thoughtful, effective philanthropy. 

Alik shares his professional journey, offers his perspective on what philanthropy means today, and explains how RPA accelerates impact through advisory, management and implementation services. The conversation also explores current trends shaping the philanthropic landscape, the role and benefits of fiscal sponsorship, and how RPA’s “Philanthropy Roadmap” helps support aspiring philanthropists.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Jason Shames, President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey. Jason will discuss his professional background and journey to the Federation, as well as his personal connection to its mission. He will highlight key programs and their impact on the community, share what a typical day looks like as CEO, and emphasize the importance of strong board and staff support. Jason will also explore how he builds and cultivates leadership within his team, offer his top management insights, and reflect on what lies ahead for the Federation’s future.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Aaron Francois, CEO and Founder, and Shaq Lawson, COO, of Black Visionaries, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering Black professionals through access to networking, resources, and professional development. Aaron and Shaq share their personal journeys, the inspiration behind launching Black Visionaries, and how the organization has grown into a fully volunteer-run community creating meaningful opportunities across industries. You’ll hear about the impact of their signature events, real success stories from attendees, how strategic partnerships are formed, and what’s ahead for Black Visionaries in 2026 and beyond.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Mathieu Nelessen, President and CEO of the Princeton Area Community Foundation, a nonprofit focused on advancing philanthropy through education, grantmaking, and a strong network of donors, advisors, and community organizations. Mathieu shares his background and passion for the sector, offers insight into today’s not-for-profit landscape, and explores what meaningful “impact” truly means. He also discusses how donors can make informed giving decisions and why storytelling and effective marketing are vital to nonprofit success, highlighting powerful examples of the Foundation’s work across Princeton and the surrounding community.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Steve Maislin, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF), to explore how community foundations drive meaningful, lasting impact. Steve shares his journey to The Community Foundation and discusses how the organization partners with local nonprofits and stewards charitable assets to strengthen the Houston region. We’ll dive into the role of donor advised funds (DAFs), the importance of strategic philanthropy, and how The Community Foundationis celebrating 30 years of inspiring generosity and community collaboration.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Kate Duggan, Executive Director, and Paul Shackford, Board President & Trustee of Family Promise of Bergen County.  Kate and Paul share how they became involved with the organization and the impact it has on families facing housing and food insecurity.

Support the show

In this episode, William Negley shares his personal journey and motivation behind founding Sound Off, a non-profit dedicated to breaking down the cultural, bureaucratic, and psychological barriers that often prevent veterans and service members from seeking mental health support. He explains how Sound Off’s unique model and innovative app are transforming access to care, connecting previously unserved populations with the help they need. William also highlights the organization’s partnerships with other groups to maximize impact and reach more veterans in need. 

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors as we speak with Angie Carmignani, Executive Director of the California Fire Foundation (CFF). CFF is a nonprofit that provides emotional and financial assistance to fallen firefighters’ families, active firefighters, and the communities they serve. Angie shares how CFF supports California communities before, during, and after disasters, funds safety-focused projects, and ensures both professional and volunteer firefighters get the help they need. She also discusses the power of philanthropy in the firefighter community, the importance of connecting with donors, and how the foundation is responding to the recent LA fires. To learn more or support their work, visit cafirefoundation.org. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, hosts speak with Ellie Moss and Dagny Tucker, Co-Founders and Co-Executive Directors of Perpetual Use, a nonprofit organization tackling the challenge of single-use waste through immersive reuse systems. They share the story behind launching Perpetual, their innovative approach to reducing waste and the cities they’re currently partnering with. The conversation also explores the process of implementing a large-scale reuse infrastructure and its projected outcome.

4o

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we sit down with Emily Rasmussen, Founder & CEO of Grapevine Giving, to explore the power of collective philanthropy through the Giving Circle movement.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors as we welcome back Carmine Deo, CEO of Community Hope, a New Jersey-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals through mental health, housing, and veteran support programs. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we discuss VEXAS syndrome with Joe Holman, Sustainability and ESG Services Practice Leader at Withum and President of the VEXAS Foundation.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Ed Brady, President and CEO of Home Builders Institute. 

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Tierra Dorsey, President of Central Scholarship Bureau. 

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Donald Overton, National Executive Director of Blinded Veterans Association. 

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with James Corbett, Co-Founder of Project Refit. 

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Melany Duval, Senior Vice President and Chief Philanthropy Officer of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Support the show

Join us for this episode of Civic Warriors, where we speak with Sherry Wheelock,
President and CEO of Special Olympics Florida, and Maryann Gonzalez, a Coordinator
of Sports and an athlete in Special Olympics Florida. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Rob Zochowski, President and CEO of International Foundation for Valuing Impacts (IFVI). 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, Brad sits down with Vince Giardino, Founder of The Wake Up Project.

Support the show

Join us for an exciting episode of Civic Warriors with our guest Larry Abrams, Founder of BookSmiles, a 501c3 not-for-profit organization that distributes new and gently used children's books to children and families living in underserved communities.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, Brad sits down with Valerie Sellers, Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Association of Community Providers (NJACP).

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Tom Tice, Chief Executive Officer of Warrior Strong. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with David Manchon, Executive Director of the Epilepsy Association.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Carol Sainthilaire, Executive Director, and Lissette Diaz, Legal Director, of The Waterfront Project, Inc.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Angela Krukauskas, Founder and Director, of No1HungryinEHC.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Kaitlyn Newman, Director of Development, from She Should Run. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Donna McGowan, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter, and Stephanie Mansour, Senior Manager at Withum and Board member of the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Maria Spina, Manager of the PSEG Foundation.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Elizabeth Yntema, President and Founder, of Dance Data Project (DDP).

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Stacy Kreizman, Senior Manager of Patient and Community Outreach, from The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Rebeca Romero Rainey, President & CEO, of Independent Community Bankers of America - ICBA.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Amanda Ferraro, a two-time cancer survivor and patient advocate for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Sheri Kirkpatrick, Campaign Development Manager, from The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Cindi Love, CEO, from Out for Undergrad(O4U). We are also joined by Bill Bradshaw, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from Withum.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Bob Hutchins, CEO, from Ellavoz Impact Capital 

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Megan Golden, Co-Founder & CEO, from Mission:Cure.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Arthur Aston, Executive Director, from Build Jake’s Place. Listen to learn how Build Jake’s Place spreads awareness through education and advocacy efforts, the costs associated with building an inclusive playground, and how they raise funds to build these playgrounds.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Hailey Breitenfeld, Founder & Executive Director of Strong Starts for Success.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Dot Sheehan, Founder & President of Operation Hat Trick.

Support the show

On this episode of Civic Warriors we speak with Assistant Chief, Jon Kessler, of the Montgomery Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 1. October is fire prevention month – so he shares some top fire prevention tips everybody should know.

Support the show

In this episode of Civic Warriors, we speak with Mike O’Connell, President & CEO, and Dave Raetz, Vice President & COO, from the Irvine Ranch Conservancy.

Support the show