The Unfiltered Non-Profit: Leaders Share It All – Details, episodes & analysis

This episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast features an honest, open conversation with Traci Spour-Lafrance, Executive Director of the Ottawa Community Housing Foundation — the team supporting 33,000 people across 155 communities, including 12,000 kids and youth. Traci walks us through what it really looks like to keep programs running at that scale, especially when funding shifts and the needs in the community keep growing. 

A few years ago, their biggest programs were funded by government grants that suddenly disappeared. Instead of cutting back, Traci and her team rebuilt their whole model. Now they stretch every donated dollar into $3 of programming by stacking subsidies, partnering with local recreation providers, and working with corporate groups who actually build the bikes, pack the backpacks, and help fund the programs they're supporting. Their leadership program brings in 150 youth a year, and their recreation program gets kids into activities they never thought they'd access. 

Traci also shares a moment many nonprofit leaders will relate to — realizing not enough people even knew the Foundation existed. That pushed her to join AFP Ottawa, start showing up at events, and talk about their work one conversation at a time. The result? Their fundraising revenue has more than doubled, their donor base is stronger, and the team has grown from "fundraising on the side of a desk" to a full resource development crew. 

We wrap the interview with a very real conversation about balance: leading a busy nonprofit, raising two kids, and finding routines that keep her grounded. It's a down-to-earth look at what nonprofit impact really takes when the need is huge, the dollars are tight, and you decide to keep going anyway. 

Every nonprofit wants to build something that lasts — but sustainability can feel like a moving target. 

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Cherry Chan sits down with Melissa Shahin, Chief Strategy Officer at AFMC, to talk about what sustainability actually looks like when strategy meets execution. 

Melissa shares how AFMC shifted from being heavily grant-funded to running a successful social enterprise — the AFMC Student Portal — that now fuels its mission while reducing government reliance to under 20%. She explains how the team links board priorities to measurable outcomes using scorecards and indicators, helping them make faster, data-driven decisions. 

The conversation dives deep into what makes nonprofit sustainability strategies work: 

• tracking what truly matters instead of chasing every initiative, 

• being transparent about change and earning staff buy-in, and 

• building flexibility into work culture to protect teams from burnout. 

For any nonprofit leader wondering how to turn a solid plan into lasting impact — this episode is a masterclass in staying mission-driven and financially resilient. 

What happens when the demand for your services grows faster than your funding? In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I sit down with Michelle Crogie, Executive Director of PLEO (Parents' Lifeline of Eastern Ontario), to talk about the real challenges of leading a high-impact nonprofit through growth, heartbreak, and hustle. From securing grants to launching events, we explore real-world nonprofit revenue growth strategies that go beyond the theory.

Michelle shares how PLEO's services—like their helpline and support groups—are at full capacity, even though core funding only covers about 25% of their budget. The rest? It's a constant effort: grant writing, donor campaigns, and creative fundraising like their first-ever gala, which raised $12,000. Ever tried to expand a mental health program with year-to-year money? That's the juggling act—and Michelle's approach offers important lessons for nonprofit revenue growth strategies in action.

One of the most compelling parts of our conversation is PLEO's Youth-Nominated Support Team program. Early results show a sharp drop in suicidal ideation after just six weeks—a powerful reminder of why sustainable funding matters. With 26 partner agencies backing their Health Canada grant application, Michelle is building momentum for scale. If you've ever had to chase dollars while trying to make a difference, this episode gives you a raw, honest look at nonprofit revenue growth strategies that are rooted in purpose—not just spreadsheets.

About OTUS Financial Solutions:

At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.

If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit's financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let's make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, I sit down with Caitlin Morrison, Executive Director of the Matthew Perry Foundation, to talk about the bold, love-fueled journey behind Matthew Perry House — a groundbreaking initiative offering long-term recovery housing and support for people struggling with substance use.

We explore how Caitlin and the Matthew Perry Foundation, along with a powerful coalition of local organizations, are redefining what recovery can look like in Canada. This episode dives into why three years of care is the magic number, and how Caitlin's nonprofit journey—sparked by a temporary job and a deep love for people—has led to building something extraordinary in her brother's name.

This isn't just about bricks and mortar. It's about people. It's about healing. It's about changing the system, one community at a time.

Caitlin shares how a full year of support can triple someone's chances of long-term recovery, and how reaching the three-year mark brings that number to 83%. With 167 residential units planned in Ottawa, the first Matthew Perry House is designed to provide not just treatment, but a true home—where community, mentorship, and individualized care come together to create lasting change. The Matthew Perry Foundation is already breaking ground on this project, less than a year after the first conversation, showing what's possible when collaboration replaces competition.

Whether you're in nonprofit leadership, recovery support, or just curious about what's possible when community and purpose collide — this episode will leave you inspired by the impact the Matthew Perry Foundation is creating.

💬 "It's all love. It's him. And that's why we're doing this."

About OTUS Financial Solutions:

At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.

If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit's financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let's make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we speak with Nick Neuheimer, CEO of the Canadian Association of Radiologists, about his path into nonprofit leadership and why he helped start the Ottawa Association Executive Network (OAEN).

Nick shares how he moved from a career in economics to association management, eventually becoming a CEO and earning his Certified Association Executive(CAE) designation along the way. Through that journey, one theme kept coming up: the importance of connection.

After years of virtual meetings and isolated leadership roles, Nick saw a clear need for a space where nonprofit and association professionals could meet face-to-face, learn from each other, and build relationships. That's what led to the launch of OAEN. More than just networking events, the sessions are focused on real issues—like advocacy, governance, and succession planning—offering practical insights and a chance to talk honestly with peers.

In this conversation, Nick and Cherry discuss:

• How peer networks can support leaders through tough decisions
  
  

• Why in-person connection still matters, especially in hiring
  
  

• The role of OAEN in helping leaders at all stages of their careers
  
  

• And how creating space for shared learning can strengthen the entire sector
  
  

If you're looking for a community of nonprofit and association leaders who are open, curious, and committed to learning—this episode is for you.

About OTUS Financial Solutions:

At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.

If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit's financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let's make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

Welcome to the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast. Today, we are  joined by Emily Jones, co-founder of Connected Canadians, a nonprofit that has successfully turned corporate training into a sustainable revenue stream while helping seniors build digital literacy skills.

What started as a self-funded initiative quickly evolved when Emily and her team recognized the need for a more reliable funding model. They leveraged their expertise in digital literacy and developed training programs for major corporations, securing partnerships with Rogers, Amazon, TD Canada, and Best Buy. Their breakthrough deal with Rogers resulted in over 2,000 training licenses sold, equipping technicians with the skills to better assist senior customers. This success validated their model and led to further collaborations with other industry leaders, helping them build sustainable revenue beyond grants and donations.

By monetizing their knowledge, Connected Canadians established a scalable funding approach that not only supports free digital literacy services for seniors but also enhances corporate interactions with older adults. Their programs help bridge the generational tech gap while ensuring businesses are equipped to meet the needs of a growing senior population. In addition, their cybersecurity training initiative empowers seniors to navigate the digital world safely, addressing a critical concern in an era of increasing online fraud and scams. Their ability to generate sustainable revenue from training ensures they can continue offering these vital programs without financial instability.

This episode delves into how nonprofits can monetize their expertise and build sustainable revenue streams without relying solely on grants. Emily shares how strategic partnerships, a compelling value proposition, and a commitment to mission-driven business practices have allowed Connected Canadians to grow while staying true to its purpose.

Visit Connected Canadians to learn more about their innovative funding model and impact. Subscribe to the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast for more insights from nonprofit leaders who are redefining sustainability in the sector.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, host Cherry Chan sits down with Rob Henderson, President & CEO of BioTalent Canada, to discuss how he successfully transitioned his nonprofit from government dependency to financial sustainability. Rob shares the hard decisions, bold strategies, and entrepreneurial mindset that helped BioTalent Canada diversify its revenue and thrive.

Overcoming the Challenge of Lost Government Funding
When BioTalent Canada received news that their federal funding would be cut, they faced a critical turning point. Instead of scaling back, Rob took a bold, business-driven approach to nonprofit revenue diversification—building industry partnerships, offering consulting services, and creating a self-sustaining funding model.

Lessons in Leadership and Change Management
Rob doesn't shy away from the reality of leading through change. He shares how nonprofit leaders must adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, make tough staffing decisions, and embrace revenue diversification to ensure long-term impact.

• Practical Strategies for Nonprofit Revenue Diversification
  In this episode, Rob breaks down actionable steps for nonprofits looking to diversify revenue, including:
  Establishing corporate partnerships that bring in recurring revenue
  Creating value-driven sponsorship models
  Leveraging government funding for specific projects instead of relying on operational grants
  Developing consulting or training services as additional income streams

The Intersection of DEI and Financial Sustainability
Rob also shares how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) plays a role in nonprofit success. Through initiatives like the IDEA Committee and the Ideal Bioscience Employer designation, BioTalent Canada ensures that its workforce and funding strategies align with its mission.

💡 If your nonprofit is struggling with funding challenges, this episode is a must-listen. Learn how an entrepreneurial mindset and revenue diversification can create financial stability while staying true to your mission.

In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Jessie Card, Executive Director of Youth Ottawa, to discuss how nonprofits can move beyond grant dependency and adopt a social enterprise mindset. Under Jessie's leadership, Youth Ottawa transformed its funding model—growing from 0% earned revenue in 2018 to 18% of total revenue generated through paid programming with school boards. This shift has not only strengthened the organization's sustainability but also reinforced its impact, proving that nonprofits can thrive by thinking like businesses while staying mission-driven.

Jessie shares how his own experiences with learning challenges inspired him to empower youth through skills development, media literacy, and entrepreneurship. He discusses the crucial role of prevention—investing in young people early yields long-term benefits, with research showing every $1 spent on youth programs can save $5 to $7 in future social costs. Youth Ottawa's innovative approach actively involves young people in shaping and delivering programming, ensuring they gain leadership experience and economic opportunities while driving community change.

Beyond financial sustainability, Youth Ottawa has created flagship initiatives like the RBC 21 Under 21 Awards and the Mars Charity Golf Classic, which not only recognize and celebrate young changemakers but also serve as key revenue streams to fund impactful programs. Jessie's insights challenge traditional nonprofit mindsets, emphasizing that organizations must embrace sales, marketing, and business acumen to survive and scale their missions.

This conversation is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders looking to innovate their funding models, maximize social impact, and turn financial challenges into opportunities. If you're navigating similar struggles, this episode provides actionable insights on how to leverage partnerships, rethink revenue strategies, and build a financially resilient nonprofit.

In this episode of The Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, Susan Ingram, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa, shares how her leadership helped turn a small idea into a thriving social enterprise. Thrive Select Thrift started with just three clothing bins and a $5,000 investment in 2015. Today, it has grown into a successful thrift store that has diverted over 1.5 million pounds of clothing from landfills, generated nearly $500,000 in revenue, and provided 4,448 hours of job training for youth. Beyond raising funds, Thrive Select Thrift has become a key part of their mission, offering mentorship and a safe space for young people to learn and grow.

Susan's leadership played a big role in making this happen. With a background in operations and business, she brought practical skills to the nonprofit world, combining strong planning with a "start small" approach. She credits partnerships with organizations like RBC and a supportive board of directors for helping her overcome challenges. Susan also shares how nonprofits often shy away from risks, but by taking small, thoughtful steps—like piloting with a few bins before opening a store—she was able to build confidence in the project and make it work.

For Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa, Thrive Select Thrift is more than just a revenue stream. The store provides a physical space for the community to connect with their mission, meet the youth they support, and see their impact firsthand. Susan explains how this has helped showcase their work, which is often hard to "see" since mentorship relationships happen privately. The store also gives young people real-world job training, helping them build skills and a sense of belonging that will stay with them long after their time in the program.

Are you looking for new ways to support your nonprofit's mission and diversify your revenue? What small steps could you take to test an idea and build toward something bigger? This episode is full of insights for nonprofit leaders ready to take the leap into social enterprise.

What does it take to advocate for 65,000 grain farmers across Canada? In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of Grain Growers of Canada, to explore the realities of nonprofit leadership and advocacy in a constantly shifting political landscape. Representing farmers who produce 70% of Canada's grain exports, Kyle shares how his team works tirelessly on Parliament Hill to address issues that directly impact Canadian agriculture.

We discuss Kyle's journey into nonprofit leadership, his strategies for aligning advocacy with government priorities, and the importance of adapting to change—whether it's in policies, leadership, or public focus. One standout success Kyle shares is his role in creating the third-ever national college in Canada for intellectual property agents, a multi-year achievement that highlights the power of persistence and collaboration.

Kyle also opens up about the challenges he faced as a young leader, including overcoming age-related biases early in his career. His advice? Trust your expertise and stay confident, even in uncertain times.

If you've ever wondered how political change impacts nonprofits—or how to stay focused when the ground shifts beneath you—this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world lessons. Tune in to learn how advocacy evolves and why it matters for everyone