Explore every episode of the podcast TNC Talks NonProfit with Mercedes & Scott

What if the biggest thing holding nonprofits back isn't a lack of funding—but the way we've been taught to think?

In this special episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes Alhaj and Scott McAninch welcome bestselling author, TED speaker, and nonprofit thought leader Dan Pallotta for a powerful conversation about why the "overhead myth" still persists, why nonprofits should stop apologizing for investing in people, and why the sector needs the courage to dream far bigger.

Dan shares the deeply personal story behind Uncharitable, reflects on the mindset that keeps nonprofits playing small, discusses the evolution of his advocacy through film and music, and challenges leaders to pursue what once seemed impossible.

If you're a nonprofit executive, board member, funder, or anyone passionate about social impact, this is a conversation that will challenge your assumptions and inspire a new way of thinking.

🎧 Listen now on all major podcast platforms and streaming on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.

#TNCTalksNonprofit #DanPallotta #Uncharitable #NonprofitLeadership #NonprofitInnovation #Fundraising #SocialImpact #Philanthropy #Leadership #NonprofitSector

What happens when someone who once lived on the streets becomes a nonprofit leader transforming lives every day?

In this powerful episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Hamilton Barton, CEO of Pay It Forward SA, to discuss his remarkable journey from addiction, homelessness, and recovery to leading an organization that helps hundreds of people find stability through sober living scholarships and recovery support. Hamilton shares how his personal experiences shaped his passion for helping others, the life-changing impact of community and accountability, and Pay It Forward SA's innovative work supporting individuals and families affected by substance use disorders. Plus, hear about their exciting vision to help parents stay connected with their children while seeking treatment.

🎙️ A conversation about second chances, resilience, recovery, and the power of paying it forward.

#TNCTalksNonprofit #NonprofitLeadership #RecoveryJourney #PayItForwardSA #SubstanceUseRecovery #CommunityImpact #NonprofitPodcast #LeadershipWithPurpose #SanAntonioNonprofits #HopeAndHealing

What does it take to lead an organization that has been transforming lives for 75 years? In this inspiring episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Simon Salas, CEO of Good Samaritan Community Services, to explore his remarkable journey from growing up in the very neighborhood Good Sam serves to leading one of San Antonio's most impactful community organizations.

Simon shares how dedicated teachers, a set of World Book encyclopedias, and a passion for education shaped his path from the West Side of San Antonio to Columbia University, law school, public policy, and ultimately nonprofit leadership. Along the way, he reflects on the power of mentorship, the importance of community, and why investing in people—especially young people—can change the trajectory of entire neighborhoods.

Join us for a powerful conversation about service, opportunity, and what it means to give back to the community that helped shape who you are.

#NonProfitLeadership #TNCTalks #GoodSamaritanCommunityServices #CommunityImpact #EducationMatters #NonProfitPodcast #LeadershipJourney #SanAntonioNonprofits #Mentorship #CommunityDevelopment #TNCNetwork #PurposeDrivenLeadership

What happens after a life-changing injury—and who helps pick up the pieces? In this episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Dawn Dixon of ConnectAbility to explore how communities can step in when individuals and families need it most.

From navigating the aftermath of traumatic injuries to creating spaces for connection and long-term support, Dawn shares how ConnectAbility is redefining care coordination and building true community for people with disabilities. Along the way, the conversation blends real-world challenges, nonprofit leadership insights, and a few laughs that remind us why this work matters.

💡 If you're passionate about impact, collaboration, and meeting people where they are—this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Listen now and be inspired to build stronger, more inclusive communities. #Nonprofit #CommunityImpact #DisabilitySupport #TNCTalks

What does it take to turn a childhood marked by foster care into a life of purpose and leadership?

In this powerful episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Dr. Angie White, President & CEO of Child Advocates San Antonio (CASA). From her deeply personal journey through the foster system to leading one of the most impactful child advocacy organizations in the country, Dr. Angie shares how resilience, truth, and connection shaped her path.

💡 Hear how CASA gives a voice to children in the courtroom
💬 Why nonprofit leadership must be both personal and strategic
❤️ And how understanding your story can transform the way you serve others

This is a conversation about courage, identity, and the belief that where you start isn't where you finish.

🎧 Listen now and be inspired to lead with purpose.

#NonprofitLeadership #CASA #FosterCareAwareness #PurposeDriven #LeadershipJourney

What happens when one moment in a classroom turns into a global movement? 🌍

On this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Amir Samandi, founder of Students of Service (SOS), to explore how a simple question—"Can we go there?"—sparked a life-changing nonprofit.

From empowering students through leadership, service, and international travel to awarding scholarships and creating future changemakers, SOS is transforming lives one experience at a time.

Hear powerful stories of resilience, growth, and the impact of believing in young people—and what's next as SOS looks to expand nationwide.

🎧 Tune in now and get inspired by the next generation of leaders!

#TNCtalks #NonprofitPodcast #YouthLeadership #StudentsOfService #CommunityImpact

In this episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Neale Parker, CEO of the Chromosome 18 Registry & Research Society, to explore the powerful impact of a "small but mighty" nonprofit making waves around the world.

From supporting families navigating rare genetic conditions to advancing critical research and building a global community, Neale shares how this San Antonio-based organization is transforming lives—one connection at a time.

💙 Learn how personal stories sparked a worldwide movement
🌍 Discover how they serve thousands of families across the globe
⭐ Hear why "the power of one" drives everything they do

This conversation is a moving reminder that even the rarest challenges can unite people in extraordinary ways.

#NonprofitPodcast #RareDiseaseAwareness #TNCtalks #NonprofitLeadership #CommunityImpact

What does it take to transform early childhood education across an entire city?

In this episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Mark Larson, Executive Director of Early Matters San Antonio, to talk about building systems that support children from birth to kindergarten — and the massive collaboration it takes to make it happen.

Mark shares:
✔️ What it really means to be a "collective impact backbone"
✔️ How San Antonio increased quality-rated childcare centers from 19% to 84%
✔️ The launch of a first-of-its-kind childcare access platform in Texas
✔️ Why early childhood is critical to workforce development
✔️ His journey from teacher to KIPP leader to systems-level change maker

With 700+ childcare centers, 70+ partners, and a $20M impact plan, Early Matters is working behind the scenes to align policy, funding, data, and community leadership to ensure every child enters kindergarten ready to thrive.

This conversation is about leadership, collaboration, and why early childhood isn't just a family issue — it's an economic and community imperative.

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation.

#TNCTalksNonProfit #SanAntonioNonprofit #EarlyChildhoodEducation #CollectiveImpact #NonprofitLeadership

What if a donated wheelchair could completely change someone's life?

On this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Cathy Valdez, CEO of Project MEND, to talk about 20 years of innovation, impact, and restoring independence for Texans with disabilities.

Project MEND (Medical Equipment Network for Those with Disabilities) refurbishes and redistributes durable medical equipment—like wheelchairs, walkers, and shower chairs—ensuring mobility isn't a barrier to living with dignity. From hospital-grade UV sanitizing robots to 3D-printing replacement parts and even generating earned income through eBay sales, this San Antonio-based nonprofit is redefining what sustainability and service look like.

✨ Hear how a "temporary consulting project" turned into a 20-year mission
✨ Learn why the right wheelchair fit truly matters
✨ Discover how innovation is helping them serve more people than ever

This is a story of leadership, resilience, and building something that lasts.

🎧 Listen now and get inspired by what's possible when purpose meets persistence.

#TNCTalksNonprofit #NonprofitLeadership #ProjectMEND #SanAntonioNonprofits #MobilityMatters #SocialImpact

What does it mean to truly serve the least served?

In this powerful episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries (MHM). Jaime shares the incredible story of surviving stage 4 cancer, discovering his "why," and answering a calling that led him to lead one of the largest charitable healthcare organizations in Texas.

From addressing social determinants of health and 20-year life expectancy gaps in San Antonio zip codes, to investing $200+ million annually into communities across 74 counties, MHM is redefining what community health looks like.

This conversation is about faith, leadership, advocacy, and building healthier communities before people ever get sick.

🎧 Tune in and discover your "why."

The 2026 Bexar County Judge Nonprofit Forum hosted by The Nonprofit Council held on February 11, 2026 in San Antonio featuring the two leading Bexar County Judge candidates - incumbent Judge Peter Sakai and former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. Moderated by Texas Public Radio broadcaster David Martin Davies.

On this episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes & Scott welcome Charlie Blank, Founder and Executive Director of RiverAid San Antonio, for an inspiring conversation about environmental stewardship, volunteer power, and building a nonprofit that creates real, measurable impact.

Charlie shares the story behind RiverAid's founding, how the organization helped revitalize the iconic Basura Bash, and why turning a once-a-year cleanup into a year-round mission has transformed San Antonio's waterways. From removing millions of pounds of trash to deploying innovative litter boom systems and training citizen scientists, RiverAid is proving what's possible when community passion meets smart systems.

If you care about nonprofits, collaboration, sustainability, or how to scale impact without losing heart, this is an episode you don't want to miss. 🌱🎧

On this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Chris Martin, President & CEO of United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, to explore what it truly takes to build long-term community impact.

With more than 36 years at United Way, Chris shares his career journey, how United Way uses data-driven impact councils to address everything from early childhood development to crisis response, and why collaboration, volunteers, and adaptability are essential to nonprofit success.

From the power of 2-1-1 to rethinking grantmaking and leadership development, this conversation offers valuable insight for nonprofit leaders, funders, and anyone passionate about strengthening their community.

🎧 Listen now and learn how United Way is bringing people and organizations together to create lasting change.

Denise Barkhurst didn't set out to lead a nonprofit—she found her purpose through her own story. In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Denise (President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas) shares how growing up with scarcity and responsibility shaped her drive to serve, why mentorship can change a child's entire trajectory, and what 28 years inside one mission teaches you about impact, resilience, and leadership.

This week on TNC Talks Non-Profit with Mercedes & Scott, we sit down with Katie Wilson, Executive Director of Close to Home, for a deep dive into how San Antonio is tackling homelessness through collaboration, coordination, and compassion.

Katie shares her inspiring journey—from dance team captain to leading a community-wide movement ensuring everyone has a place to call home. Learn how Close to Home brings together 77 partner organizations, aligns local and federal efforts, and turns data into real impact for our unhoused neighbors.

🎧 Tune in to hear how systems thinking, advocacy, and heart are reshaping what it means to serve our community.

💙 Special thanks to our sponsor, Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, for supporting TNC Talks Non-Profit and helping us shine a light on the change-makers building a better tomorrow.

When a child is fighting cancer, the battle goes far beyond the hospital. 🎗️ On this episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes & Scott sit down with Jason Massiatte president of Hope at Heart Foundation, to talk about covering the non-medical essentials—rent, utilities, fuel cards, even end-of-life support—so families can focus on their child. Hear how partnerships across South Texas, relentless advocacy, and community micro-events are filling a critical gap for kids and young adults up to 26. It's candid, moving, and a powerful call to action.

In this inspiring episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes and Scott sit down with Dona Kotzur, CEO of The Arc of San Antonio, to explore her incredible journey from a 25-year career at H-E-B to leading one of San Antonio's most impactful organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Dona shares how her heart led her from corporate success to nonprofit service, the challenges families face navigating IDD care systems, and the joyful, purpose-filled community The Arc creates every day. ❤️

👉 Tune in to hear how Dona found her calling — and how The Arc helps others live their best lives.
🎧 Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas.

What do Guam, English literature, and a 5K full of cheering girls have in common? They're all part of Minka Misanji's incredible journey to founding and leading Girls on the Run Bexar County.

In this uplifting episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit with Mercedes & Scott, Minka shares how a magazine blurb sparked a movement that's helped thousands of girls build confidence, connection, and courage. From teaching emotional literacy and leadership skills to crossing the finish line (literally), Girls on the Run is much more than an after-school program—it's a life-shaping experience.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.gotrsanantonio.org

How do you go from part-time nonprofit staffer to CEO of one of Texas' fastest-growing child and family well-being organizations?

In this powerful episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, Mercedes & Scott sit down with Tara Roussett, CEO of SJRC Texas / Belong, to hear how she helped transform a small residential program into a region-wide movement reshaping foster care across South Texas. With 800+ staff and a new contract to serve Bexar County, Tara shares the behind-the-scenes story of splitting from a national brand, embracing community-based care, and building a future where kids don't just survive — they belong.

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, systems change, and the heart behind the hustle.
🔗 Learn more: https://sjrcbelong.org

How does someone go from running a barbecue joint and working at Six Flags… to leading one of the most beloved nonprofits in Texas?

In this heartfelt and often hilarious episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes & Scott sit down with Vincent Ferris, CEO of Meals on Wheels San Antonio, to unpack his journey from food service to frontline advocacy — and what it takes to feed thousands of homebound neighbors every single day.

🎧 Tune in for a conversation that's equal parts leadership, laughter, and legacy.
🔗 Learn more at: https://www.mowsatx.org

From fountains and food trucks to family picnics and meditation gardens—Hemisfair is becoming the gathering place for San Antonio. In this episode of TNC Talks Non-Profit, Mercedes & Scott sit down with Susan Thompson, President of Hemisfair Conservancy, to explore how visionary park development, historic preservation, and philanthropic investment are transforming 40 acres into a vibrant, inclusive downtown oasis.

🌳 Hear how Civic Park, Yanaguana, and Tower Park each tell a different story
🏀 Learn about the Spurs-backed community court and age-inclusive fitness zones
🌆 Discover how Hemisfair's economic model is building toward long-term sustainability

🎧 Tune in for a conversation about leadership, legacy, and making public space personal.
🌐 Learn more: https://hemisfair.org

In this candid behind-the-scenes episode, Mercedes & Scott reflect with producer John Largent on the unexpected joy (and chaos) of launching a podcast, why "winging it" works, and how storytelling is reshaping how the nonprofit sector connects. From mimosas in the studio to surprise CEO stories and future episodes "on the road," it's a relaxed, insightful peek into the heart of a podcast that's all about people first.

🎧 Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a little behind-the-curtain magic.

#TNCtalks #NonprofitLeadership #PodcastHosts #BehindTheScenes #StorytellingMatters #NonprofitCouncil #PodcastRealTalk #CommunityVoices

From a small-town upbringing to leading one of Texas' most unique shelters, Rebecca Helterbrand shares how faith, resilience, and mentors shaped her unexpected journey to the helm of Respite Care of San Antonio. Hear how this one-of-a-kind nonprofit is providing emergency shelter, inclusive education, and wraparound care for children with complex needs and their families — and how dreaming big sometimes starts with just one person believing in you.

🔗 Learn more: https://respitecaresa.org

#NonprofitLeadership #ChildAdvocacy #RespiteCare #SanAntonioNonprofits #TNCtalks

What happens when an oilfield entrepreneur takes the reins of a struggling ballet company? You get Alamo City Arts—a multidisciplinary nonprofit that's 10x'd its size, absorbed multiple organizations, and redefined what community arts can be in South Texas.

In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit with Mercedes & Scott, we sit down with Executive Director Cory McRae to explore his unconventional path into the arts, how mergers have strengthened the local creative scene, and why leading with abundance—not scarcity—is the key to nonprofit growth.

🎭 Discover how business strategy meets artistic vision
🎶 Learn how earned income, partnerships, and cultural respect fuel their mission
💡 Get inspired by the power of collaboration in sustaining the arts

🎧 Tune in now and visit https://alamocityarts.org to learn more.
#TNCtalks #ArtsLeadership #AlamoCityArts #NonprofitStrategy #MergersWithImpact #TexasArts #CommunityCulture #BusinessMeetsArts

How do you turn personal pain into purpose—and a borrowed church basement into a beacon of healing? On this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit with Mercedes & Scott, we sit down with Evita Morin, CEO of Rise Recovery, to hear how her journey from trauma survivor to nonprofit leader is fueling nearly 50 years of recovery support for youth and families.

🎧 Listen in for an inspiring conversation about healing, hope, and human-centered systems.
🌐 More about Rise Recovery: https://www.riserecovery.org

#TNCtalks #NonprofitLeadership #RiseRecovery #YouthSupport #SubstanceUseRecovery #RecoveryHighSchool #CommunityHealing #BehavioralHealth #NonprofitInnovation

 In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes Alhaj and Scott McAninch sit down with Justin Holley, CEO of Thrive Youth Center, to explore his surprising transition from the hotel industry to running one of San Antonio's only shelters dedicated to LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness.

You'll hear how Thrive empowers young people with more than just a roof over their heads—offering life skills training, emotional support, and a path to self-sufficiency. Justin shares the personal moments that sparked his career shift, the unique challenges LGBTQ homeless youth face, and the bold funding strategies that keep Thrive's mission alive.

💡 In this episode, you'll learn:

• How personal turning points can redefine professional purpose

• Why LGBTQ youth need specialized support systems

• How innovative fundraising keeps critical programs running

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries - To learn more, click here. 

The Nonprofit Council is a membership organization comprised of the Executive Directors, Presidents and CEO's of 501(c)3 organizations along with nonprofit professionals and for–profit businesses in South Central Texas. Our mission is to SUPPORT, CONNECT and STRENGTHEN the leadership of nonprofit organizations. We strive to accomplish that mission through advocacy, training, resource sharing and the strength and extensive knowledge of our combined membership.

What does it take to turn passion into purpose? In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes and Scott sit down with Maureen DeFelice, CEO of the Daedalion Foundation, to explore how her journey led to supporting the next generation of military aviators. From scholarships to hands-on flight training, the foundation is all about lifting others up—literally and figuratively.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

• Why real flight experience makes all the difference for future aviators

• The often-overlooked power of a strong, supportive nonprofit board

• Practical tips on fundraising and scaling impact without losing your mission

If you're curious about leadership, purpose-driven work, or just love a good story of transformation, this one's for you. Hit play and get inspired!

For more information about The NonProfit Council, go to www.nonprofitcouncil.com

This season is being presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries

How do you lead a 122-year-old nonprofit into the future? In this episode, hosts Mercedes Alhaj and Scott McAninch sit down with Mary Garr, CEO of Family Service Association, to explore her remarkable path from military service to nonprofit leadership. Discover how Family Service is tackling the root causes of generational poverty through bold strategies that focus on social determinants of health.

 Key highlights include:

• How integrated support systems empower families and communities

• The role of partnerships in expanding impact

• Transparent talk on financial challenges and sustainability in the nonprofit world

Whether you're a nonprofit leader, aspiring changemaker, or simply curious about community transformation—this episode will leave you inspired.

👉 Tune in and get inspired by the power of purpose-driven leadership!

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries - To learn more, click here. 

The Nonprofit Council is a membership organization comprised of the Executive Directors, Presidents and CEO's of 501(c)3 organizations along with nonprofit professionals and for–profit businesses in South Central Texas. Our mission is to SUPPORT, CONNECT and STRENGTHEN the leadership of nonprofit organizations. We strive to accomplish that mission through advocacy, training, resource sharing and the strength and extensive knowledge of our combined membership.

In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit, hosts Mercedes and Scott sit down with Susan Osborne, CEO of CAMP—Children's Association for Maximum Potential. Susan shares her inspiring journey from managing rental properties and running a plumbing business to leading one of the most impactful nonprofits in Texas.

You'll hear how CAMP provides year-round recreation and respite programs for kids and adults with disabilities, how the camp has grown from an old church retreat into a fully-equipped haven, and why Susan believes every child deserves the chance to swing high and play free—regardless of their abilities.

It's a heartwarming, real conversation about purpose, leadership, and why volunteers (even teens!) are at the heart of CAMP's mission.

Presented by Methodist Healthcare Ministries - To learn more, click here. 

The Nonprofit Council is a membership organization comprised of the Executive Directors, Presidents and CEO's of 501(c)3 organizations along with nonprofit professionals and for–profit businesses in South Central Texas. Our mission is to SUPPORT, CONNECT and STRENGTHEN the leadership of nonprofit organizations. We strive to accomplish that mission through advocacy, training, resource sharing and the strength and extensive knowledge of our combined membership.

What does it take to build a meaningful career in the nonprofit world? Armen Babajanian has the answer—one shaped by unexpected turns, international experiences, and a deep commitment to community impact.

In this episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit with Mercedes & Scott, they talk with the CEO of the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, to uncover his incredible path. From volunteering at CASA to leading Big Brothers Big Sisters in Poland, Armen's journey is a testament to the power of relationships, cultural insight, and community-driven leadership.

🎙️ Key Takeaways:
✅ How networking and mentorship shape nonprofit careers
✅ Lessons from leading nonprofits on an international scale
✅ Why local initiatives can create global ripple effects 

Learn more about The Nonprofit Council 

Join hosts Mercedes Allhaj and Scott McAninch as they sit down with Nino Tarantino, board chair and CEO of Chrysalis Ministries, to discuss the powerful work of reintegrating formerly incarcerated individuals into society. From his early career in a crime-ridden neighborhood to leading impactful nonprofit initiatives, Nino shares his inspiring journey of transformation and service.

In this episode, discover the vital role of partnerships in providing comprehensive support, explore innovative workforce reintegration strategies, and gain insight into the deep personal fulfillment that comes from mission-driven work.

This thought-provoking conversation on resilience, second chances, and the power of community in creating lasting change is broaught to you by and Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

More on The Nonprofit Council can be found here: The Nonprofit Council

Hosts:

• Mercedes Alhaj, COO at The NonProfit Council
• Scott McAninch, CEO at The NonProfit Council

 Nonprofit Council

Presented by:
Methodist Healthcare Ministries

Welcome to the inaugural episode of TNC Talks Nonprofit! Join hosts Scott McAninch and Mercedes Alhaj as they delve into their personal journeys within the nonprofit sector and explore what inspired them to launch this podcast. Learn about their mission to uncover unique stories from nonprofit leaders who often find themselves in these roles through unexpected paths.

• Introduction to TNC Talks: Understanding the purpose behind creating a platform for sharing insights from nonprofit executive leadership.
• The Genesis of Their Collaboration: Discover how Scott and Mercedes have worked together for eight years, fostering growth and support among nonprofits.
• Personal Journeys Into Nonprofits:
  • Scott's Transition from Corporate Media: After two decades in TV/radio marketing, an unforeseen career shift led him to lead San Antonio's Nonprofit Council.
  • Mercedes' Path Through Education & Finance: From teaching preschoolers to managing wealth at USAA, her journey eventually crossed paths with nonprofits through serendipitous encounters.

• Insights on how various life events or chance meetings can steer individuals toward impactful careers in nonprofits.
• Reflections on transitioning from corporate environments into more community-focused roles that offer fulfillment beyond traditional job satisfaction.
• An exciting preview of future episodes featuring diverse voices in nonprofit leadership sharing their compelling narratives.

If you're curious about what drives people into rewarding yet challenging roles within nonprofits—or if you seek inspiration for your own career path—this podcast offers candid conversations revealing both heartwarming connections and professional transformations.