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In a world where public funding for healthcare often covers the essentials but leaves a gap for transformative growth, how can philanthropy become the true catalyst for change? Today, we connect with Paul Rossmann, President and CEO of the Calgary Health Foundation. Paul leads one of Alberta’s most significant healthcare fundraising organizations. He reveals how his team is strategically bringing together donors and clinicians to drive profound improvements in patient care and outcomes. Paul discusses his journey from financial services to post-secondary, and now into the rewarding, high-impact world of major gift fundraising in health. He shares the secrets to fostering a culture of giving—one grounded not in transactional asks, but in genuine, long-term relationship-building. Learn how the Foundation is prioritizing opportunities based on where they can achieve the biggest impact and why donations are essential for funding the innovation that goes ‘beyond the daily operation of the healthcare system.’ If you’re interested in building a successful social profit organization, or if you simply want to understand the powerful link between community support and cutting-edge health delivery, you won’t want to miss Paul’s candid insights on leadership, collaboration, and his ambitious plans for growing the Calgary Health Foundation to secure a better future for healthcare in Calgary and beyond.

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

The current landscape of mental health support in Canada is more critical and complex than ever, with Canadians continuing to struggle under economic pressures and global uncertainty. To explore the path forward, we’re joined by Akela Peoples, CEO of Mental Health Research Canada and a leader twice recognized as one of Canada’s most powerful women. In this essential conversation about the future of mental health leadership, Akela shares her insights on transforming the national approach to mental health. She emphasizes the urgency of collaboration among organizations, advocating for “authentic points of intersection” to achieve collective impact. Akela also discusses how leaders can foster a resilient workforce by embracing flexibility as a key element of mental wellness, drawing on MHRC’s experience of going fully decentralized in 2025, and the critical role of data and evidence-based digital solutions in meeting the country’s rising mental health needs.

The global landscape of humanitarian aid is facing unprecedented challenges, marked by increasingly complex, protracted crises and massive funding disruptions. How do organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), or Doctors Without Borders, navigate this new reality, especially when core principles like neutrality are tested and government support is pulled? In this powerful conversation, Sana Bég, Executive Director of MSF Canada, offers a compelling perspective on leading through global crisis and funding disruption. She details the profound ripple effects of crises and cuts—such as the disruption in USAID funding—even on independently funded organizations like MSF. Sana shares her insights on: The critical mission to “bear witness” to suffering, balancing impartiality with the responsibility to speak out.The moral hazards of having to stretch resources to fill gaps left by others, and challenging the assumption that “growth equals impact”.The role of “hopeful optimism” in leadership, and the urgent need to disrupt entrenched mindsets to ignite a new era of truly equitable humanitarianism. Dive into this essential discussion about strategic leadership, maintaining integrity under pressure, and how MSF Canada is mobilizing global action in a world that is attempting to normalize the removal of humanitarian norms.

Tired of working in silos? For over two decades, the Center for Social Innovation (CSI) has shown that collaboration—and the power of social capital—is the engine of change. In this deep-dive conversation, CSI Co-founder and CEO Tonya Surman shares the journey of building one of the world’s first co-working spaces—a home for changemakers where “the chaos is everywhere” and “the forks do not match.” Discover how CSI evolved from a simple idea about shared space into a pioneering Collaborative Infrastructure Organization (CIO), designed to build the trust, relationships, and social capital needed to tackle the world’s biggest challenges. Learn why Tonya believes the future of social impact lies in moving beyond convening to true collective action—and why investing in long-term infrastructure is key to creating regenerative, movement-building solutions. If you’re a leader, social innovator, or simply someone trying to make a difference, explore the power of intentional community design—and how strengthening social capital can shift the sector from scarcity to abundance.

Imagine a conservation portfolio the size of 180 Stanley Parks, and then imagine being the person tasked with growing it. The Nature Trust of British Columbia is at a critical crossroads, moving from government-heavy funding to a future driven by private philanthropic vision. To lead this evolution, they are searching for a Director of Development, Marketing, and Communications, a role designed for a leader who wants to deliver results that can be seen, felt, and protected for generations. Join CEO Dr. Jasper Lament as he discusses the urgency of the biodiversity crisis and the “conservation toolbox” that makes the Trust unique. From the Salish Sea to the Kootenays, discover how this organization is using data-driven science to pick the “best of the best” lands and why they need a sophisticated communicator to bridge the gap between ecological need and donor passion. Ready to leave a legacy that truly lasts forever? Tune in for an inside look at this rare leadership opening, hosted by Christoph Clodius of The Discovery Group, and find out if you have the vision to help protect the nature of BC before it’s too late.

In the high-stakes world of healthcare philanthropy, few opportunities offer the chance to build a legacy from the ground up. Lions Gate Hospital Foundation (LGHF)—a small but mighty team responsible for massive capital campaigns like the $127 million Paul Myers Tower—is creating a Director of Philanthropy role. This isn’t just a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of major gift fundraising and transform patient care for the entire North Shore community. In an exclusive interview, LGHF President and CEO Judy Savage shares why now is the time for this new role, how a $25 donor once became a $10 million one, and what it takes to join a culture built on unwavering trust, transparency, and a shared passion for making a tangible difference. Are you ready to broker transformational gifts, lead a program with a proven track record, and work alongside one of the most respected leaders in Canadian philanthropy? Tune in for the insights you need to know about this rare and compelling leadership opportunity.

In the world of sports leadership, few organizations embody dedication, impact, and pure joy like Special Olympics Canada. But what does it take to lead a movement of over 40,000 athletes and 20,000 volunteers across a country as vast as Canada? In this exclusive conversation, we sit down with Gail Hamamoto, CEO of Special Olympics Canada, to explore her leadership journey. Gail shares how she centers the athletes’ experience, not just on the field of play, but as a catalyst for health, employment, and inclusion across the entire community. Discover how Special Olympics Canada leverages a powerful Social Return on Investment (SROI) of 8.76:1 to transform “charity thinking” into “abundance thinking,” making a compelling case for investment, not just donation. Join us as Gail reveals the power of authentic storytelling, the surprising impact of their Healthy Athletes program, and why a culture rooted in joy and supported by a solid foundation allows her team to boldly say “yes” to new opportunities. This is a masterclass in servant leadership, abundance mindset, and building an organization where the ultimate metric of success is the life-changing impact on every athlete.

The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) is searching for its next Executive Director—a pivotal role that goes far beyond traditional association management. Are you ready to join a passionate, “fun, nerdy, quirky, cool” team of professionals dedicated to solving some of Canada’s most pressing challenges? In this spotlight episode, CSLA President Matthew Mills and Board Member Teri Cantin peel back the layers on the profession and the association, revealing why this is a unique leadership opportunity. Discover how the new Executive Director will: Lead a Profession in Demand: Navigate rapid growth and the urgent need to train the next generation of Landscape Architects.Drive National Impact: Spearhead initiatives touching on climate change, urban health, reconciliation, and social equity.Embrace Volunteer Addiction: Work with a high-functioning, nationally collaborative board characterized by high passion and low ego. If you are a collaborative leader eager to leverage a strong organizational foundation to “springboard into the next echelon” and make a tangible difference in the built and natural environments, your time is now. Listen to our full interview with Matthew Mills and Teri Cantin to hear more about the CSLA’s exciting strategic vision, the importance of culture alignment, and why the time for landscape architecture in Canada is now.

In the complex, high-stakes arena of environmental action, how do leaders sustain momentum when public attention shifts and funding remains a challenge? We sat down with Chris Severson-Baker, Executive Director of the Pembina Institute, a leading Canadian clean energy think tank, to explore the critical tension between deep, foundational research and the sustained, repetitive advocacy needed to drive policy change. For decades, Pembina has shaped Canada’s energy landscape, moving from proving the viability of clean tech to actively dismantling the barriers to a net-zero economy. Chris shares his candid insights on navigating the political headwinds, the necessity of integrated fundraising—especially in a competitive philanthropic space—and the surprising discipline required to repeat a message until it finally sticks. Whether you’re a non-profit leader, an advocate for change, or simply interested in how big-picture environmental goals translate into real-world progress, this conversation offers invaluable lessons on strategy, focus, and the art of leading with both science and conviction.

What does it take to build the right social impact partnerships? Douglas Nelson talks all about it with Sarah Saso, VP of ESG & Social Impact at Meridian Credit Union. She explains the importance of strategically aligning core business interests and maintaining open communication at all times in developing fruitful partnerships in the social profit sector. Sarah also talks about Meridian’s innovative programs focused on helping professionals build financial confidence and overcome economic barriers. Discover the right way to secure meaningful and long-term partnerships in order to move the needle on community impact.

A wish is far more than a fleeting moment of joy; it is a scientifically-backed medical intervention that can fundamentally alter a child’s healing journey. Meaghan Stovel McKnight, Chief Executive Officer of Make-A-Wish Canada, joins the conversation to dismantle the “last wish” myth and replace it with the Wishes are Medicine framework, which highlights the measurable clinical impact of hope on critical illness. Beyond the mission, she offers a candid look at leading a national transformation—moving the organization from a post-pandemic scarcity mindset to a culture of abundance by investing in technology, talent, and a “constellation of leaders.” From the logistical challenge of granting wishes in nearly 700 unique communities to the vulnerability required to lead from the C-suite, this discussion bridges the gap between high-level operational strategy and the raw, emotional heart of the social profit sector.

Nearly one in three Canadians reported having their human rights violated in 2024. Because of this alarming reality, the mission of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights has never been more important. Douglas Nelson sits down with Mena Gainpaulsingh, CEO of the Friends of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, to share their fundraising efforts for this national institution fighting for survivors and bravely advancing women’s rights. Discover how they bridge the tension of raising money for a sensitive topic like human rights by grounding conversations in the fundamental principle that “everyone is born free and equal in dignity and rights”.

The landscape of local philanthropy and social change is constantly evolving, requiring organizations to innovate and adapt. Douglas Nelson has a great conversation with Dan Clement, President & CEO of United Way Centraide Canada, about the organization’s unique role as a “local impact, national platform” backbone for social good. Dan shares the three core pillars of their work—engaging Canadians, investing in frontline services, and community planning—and discusses how the movement is strategically renewing its business model to meet current challenges like the national housing crisis and shifting philanthropic trends. He also emphasizes the critical need for an “abundance mindset” within the social profit sector to drive resilient and long-term positive change across the country.

Navigating the complexities of fundraising leadership in a changing donor landscape requires both unparalleled expertise and a dedication to constant evolution. We sit down with Roger D. Ali, the second Canadian and current AFP Global Chair, to discuss his remarkable career and the key insights he’s gathered from the sector. Roger shares the biggest concerns he’s heard from AFP members, including the critical challenge of donor retention, the role of technology in a relationship-based field, and how to best equip the new generation of fundraisers. We also dive deep into the perils of transactional matching campaigns versus long-term stewardship, what it takes for a fundraiser to successfully transition into a CEO role, and Roger’s powerful leadership concept for uncertain times: “Leading Lightly.”