Beyond Giving

The Boost Network
  • 0.0 (0)
  • NON-PROFIT

Beyond Giving is the podcast that goes beyond traditional philanthropy to spotlight the changemakers, visionaries, and organizations making a real impact in communities around the world. Hosted by Zac Brown, this inspiring series dives deep into the missions, challenges, and successes of nonprofits driving meaningful change. Sponsored by NonprofitsHQ, Beyond Giving features candid conversations with nonprofit leaders, social entrepreneurs, and community advocates who are redefining what it means to give back. Whether you’re a donor, volunteer, or nonprofit professional, this podcast offers valuable insights and inspiring stories that showcase the power of generosity in action.

  1. Episode 14: Tech Gladiators: Engineering the Next Generation with Zeo Infinite Robotics

    FEB 4

    Episode 14: Tech Gladiators: Engineering the Next Generation with Zeo Infinite Robotics

    Episode Summary Founder Thomas James joins the show to discuss Zeo Infinite Robotics, a San Antonio-based nonprofit transforming STEM education through combat robotics. By engaging students in the "Tech Gladiator Challenge," Thomas is bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world manufacturing careers. Host:  Zac Brown: "The Non-Profit Guy" Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guests:  Thomas James, Founder of Zeo Infinite Robotics Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zeo-infinite-robotics/ Find Us:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50nKlDy81jHuoobIFLwiHy Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-giving/id1803474427 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBoostChannel Website: https://theboost.fm/beyond-giving/ Key Highlights 🌟The Mission: Giving students a "first shot" at engineering roles by teaching CAD, mechatronics, and manufacturing before they even reach college. 🌟The Tech Gladiator Challenge: A multi-month program where students design, build, and battle robots, learning to troubleshoot mechanical and software errors under pressure. 🌟The Power of Teamwork: Thomas emphasizes that robotics is 10% hardware and 90% strategy and collaboration. Students must reconcile different perspectives to build a winning machine. 🌟The Pipeline: From Gunpla (Gundam model building) for elementary kids to high-stakes combat for high schoolers, the curriculum scales with the students' development. Current Needs & Growth Thomas is currently in the foundational "building block" phase and is seeking community support for: 🌟Board Recruitment: Specifically looking for a Treasurer and members with business or financial expertise. 🌟Sponsors & Grants: Funding for robot kits, materials, and travel costs to keep the program accessible. 🌟School Outreach: Introductions to districts in San Antonio (Northside/Northeast) and to underserved areas such as the South Side and rural South Carolina. Connect with Zeo Infinite Robotics LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zeo-infinite-robotics/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeoinfiniteroboticsFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/466679857200055/ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBTFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069503631464

    29 min
  2. Episode 13: The Startup Accelerator for Democracy: How Bridge is Changing Texas Nonprofits

    JAN 21

    Episode 13: The Startup Accelerator for Democracy: How Bridge is Changing Texas Nonprofits

    Episode Summary Drew, founder of Bridge, shares how his organization serves as a "startup starting startups" for democracy and justice initiatives across Texas. From his unexpected journey (farmer to sommelier to civic leader) to building a support system for early-stage nonprofits, Drew reveals what it takes to scale impact in the civic engagement space. Host:  Zac Brown: “The Non-Profit Guy” LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guest Drew Galloway - Founder & Executive Director, Bridge LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hdrewgalloway/ Impact (4 Years) 🟢36 organizations started/scaled 🟢$9M in new funding to Texas 🟢First state-based democracy startup accelerator in US Bridge Programs 🟢Incubator: 15 weeks, $5K grant 🟢Accelerator: $50K funding + $50K+ fundraising campaign 🟢Rest Residency: Sabbaticals for burned-out founders 🟢Collective: Ongoing alumni support Drew's Journey Wine sommelier (10 years) → Experienced housing discrimination (2011) → White House intern → MOVE Texas ED (120K voters registered) → Founded Bridge Key Insights 🟢Fundraising Reality "Fundraising problems" are usually identity/clarity issuesPractice matters most: dedicate 10-20 hours/weekTreat fundraising like organizing: "Do you want to join us?"Can't outsource donor relationships🟢Leadership Evolution: Founders must shift from programmatic work to strategic/fundraising focus as organizations grow 🟢Money Mindset: Reshape your relationship with money to confidently ask for support 🟢Alternative Revenue: Nonprofits are experts, consider co-working spaces, consulting, event venues Top Quotes "Strong leaders build strong movements." "Fundraising is a full-time plus job." "All politics are retail." Support Bridge 🟢Volunteer: Mentor founders (few hours/quarter) 🟢Websites: bridgeinfrastructure.org  bridgemovements.org 🟢Social: @BridgeMovements Takeaways Clarify identity before fundraisingBlock 10-20 hours/week for fundraisingEmbrace strategic leadership transitionExplore ethical alternative revenuePrioritize rest

    38 min
  3. Episode 12: Saving Backs One Worker at a Time with the Industrial Athletic Trainer Society

    JAN 7

    Episode 12: Saving Backs One Worker at a Time with the Industrial Athletic Trainer Society

    When you think of an athletic trainer, you probably picture the sidelines of an NFL game or a college dugout. But what happens when you bring that same level of elite healthcare to a construction site, a warehouse, or a manufacturing plant? In this episode, Susan from the Industrial Athletic Trainer Society (IATS) joins Zac to discuss the "Industrial Athlete", the American worker whose physical body is their paycheck. Susan shares how IATS advocates for proactive healthcare, shifting the focus from reactive "sick care" to preventative wellness that keeps workers healthy, mobile, and out of the ER. Host:  Zac Brown: “The Non-Profit Guy” Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guests:  Susan Taah, President of Industrial Athletic Trainers' Society Website: https://www.industrialats.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iatsofficial/ Find Us:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50nKlDy81jHuoobIFLwiHy Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-giving/id1803474427 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBoostChannel Website: https://theboost.fm/beyond-giving/ Key Takeaways What is an Industrial Athletic Trainer? Unlike nurses or EMTs who are often called only when something goes wrong, Athletic Trainers (ATs) are embedded in the workforce. They are there when workers are healthy, observing biomechanics and identifying risks before injuries occur. The "Door to the Injury": Susan shares a fascinating story about how recurring shoulder injuries in beer delivery drivers weren't just a physical issue; they were caused by malfunctioning trailer doors. By fixing the equipment, they fixed the healthcare problem. Beyond Musculoskeletal Care: Industrial ATs tackle everything from heat stress (a major risk in construction) to "Gen-Med" issues like gout, hypertension, and diabetes, often serving as the first point of medical contact for workers who haven't seen a doctor in years. The "Fruit Tuesday" Success: Learn how a simple wellness survey led to a company-wide fruit delivery program, introducing workers to healthy nutrition and closing the gap between education and accessibility. A Holistic, Zero-Cost Model: Because these services are typically funded by employers or through insurance premiums, they are free to the employee, allowing ATs to focus purely on the person rather than billing codes. The Industrial Athlete's Health Hierarchy Prevention: Ergonomic assessments and "warm-up" routines for the job. Immediate Care: On-site response to acute injuries (e.g., concrete burns or heat exhaustion). Treatment/Rehab: Getting workers back to full function without the need for expensive off-site physical therapy. Wellness: Mental health support, financial education, and nutritional guidance. Resources Mentioned Industrial Athletic Trainer Society (IATS): www.industrialats.com NIOSH WellBQ: A survey tool used to assess worker well-being. Upcoming Event: The IATS Virtual Summit (Held annually in March). Connect with IATS LinkedIn: Industrial Athletic Trainer Society Facebook/Instagram: @IndustrialATSociety Website: industrialats.com

    36 min
  4. Episode 11: Inside 10Bitworks Makerspace: San Antonio’s Nonprofit Makerspace Built on Community

    12/17/2025

    Episode 11: Inside 10Bitworks Makerspace: San Antonio’s Nonprofit Makerspace Built on Community

    In this episode, we sit down with Connor and Greg from 10Bitworks Makerspace, San Antonio’s largest member-supported nonprofit makerspace. They break down what a makerspace actually is, why people join for the tools but stay for the community, and how mentorship makes big equipment like CNC routers, laser cutters, and 3D printers approachable and safe. Connor shares how a shuttle bus conversion project led him to the space and how he learned metalworking from other members to build a custom solar roof rack. Greg shares how he found 10Bitworks Makerspace through a simple DIY project and now uses his marketing background to help keep the organization thriving, including fundraising and community outreach. They also talk candidly about the realities of running a 100 percent volunteer organization, the need to move into a more comfortable space, and how supporters can help them reach a fundraising goal of up to $45,000. Host:  Zac Brown: "The Non-Profit Guy" Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guests:  Connor Doherty: Board members at 10Bitworks Makerspace Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omnipassion/ Greg Thibodeaux: Board members at 10Bitworks Makerspace Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregthibodeaux/ Website: https://10bitworks.com/ Find Us:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50nKlDy81jHuoobIFLwiHy Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-giving/id1803474427 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBoostChannel Website: https://theboost.fm/beyond-giving/ What you will learn • What a makerspace is and why it works like a tool library and community workshop  • Why mentorship matters when members have access to powerful equipment  • What a CNC router is and what it can help you build  • How 10Bitworks Makerspace operates as a 501c3 and why that helps long-term stability  • Membership options and what 24-hour access means in real life  • What it takes to move a makerspace and why climate control is a big deal  • How volunteers can make a real impact beyond just using the tools Membership and pricing mentioned • Individual membership: $75 per month  • Household membership: $100 per month  • Business membership: $150 per month  • Access: 24/7 for trained members using tools they are cleared on Support the move and equipment upgrades They estimate the move at about $17,000 and are working toward a larger fundraising goal to cover moving costs, upgrades, and breathing room. Donate: https://10bitworks.com/donate Visit and tours Weekends are best, generally Saturday and Sunday mornings through early afternoon. Members can also call ahead and leave a message if nobody picks up, and the team is responsive through the website. About 10Bitworks Makerspace 10Bitworks Makerspace is a member-supported 501 (c) (3) makerspace in San Antonio offering access to tools and equipment like wood and metal shop tools, 3D printing, CNC routing, laser cutting, and more, supported by a hands-on, mentor-driven community.

    40 min
  5. Episode 10: Teaching Teens to Build Real Businesses with Youth Business Services

    09/10/2025

    Episode 10: Teaching Teens to Build Real Businesses with Youth Business Services

    On this episode, Zac sits down with the team behind Youth Business Services (YBS) — founder Joseph Treviño, education director Rosie Baumgartner, and bookkeeping lead Bernadette — to unpack how their eight-module, hands-on program is helping high schoolers and young adults turn ideas into real, sustainable businesses. They cover mindset (self-efficacy), financial literacy, legal compliance, presentation skills, and why asking better questions is the ultimate startup advantage. YBS is launching inside Comal ISD and building a statewide mentor network so students can learn directly from operators and founders. Host:  Zac Brown: “The Non-Profit Guy” LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guests Joseph Treviño — Founder, Youth Business Services Rosie Baumgartner — Former educator (30+ years); Education Director, YBS Bernadette — Bookkeeping & accounting specialist; builds YBS’ financial literacy track Top takeaways Belief → Behavior → Outcomes: Self-efficacy is the foundation students need before tactics will stick. (Rosie)Structure wins: YBS runs an 8-module curriculum covering operational plans, financial literacy, legal compliance, marketing, and presenting.Bookkeeping is non-negotiable: Debits/credits, P&L, AR/AP, and categorization are taught in plain language with daily practice — because funding, forecasting, and decisions depend on clean books. (Bernadette)Ask better questions: Students are trained in Socratic questioning and must prepare questions for panels and mentors. Curiosity drives alignment and progress.Pragmatic capital: YBS emphasizes non-dilutive paths (loans, grants, community funding, SBA) and mentorship over “raise first” mindsets.Whole-student support: Business skills + soft skills + mental health awareness for students — and, when possible, families.Fail = First Attempt In Learning: “END” = Effort Never Dies. “NO” = Next Opportunity. (Joseph) Memorable quotes “Fail means First Attempt In Learning… ‘END’ is Effort Never Dies, and ‘NO’ is your Next Opportunity.” — Joseph“Belief in your capabilities, self-efficacy, is what unlocks everything else.” — Rosie“Clean books are the foundation. Loans, planning, decisions — they all start there.” — Bernadette What YBS teaches (the 8-module spine) 🎯 Mindset & goal setting 📊 Market research & operational planning 💵 Financial literacy & bookkeeping fundamentals 🏷️ Pricing, costs, and unit economics ⚖️ Legal & compliance (EIN, LLCs, records) 🚀 Marketing & go-to-market basics 📈 Execution systems & tracking 📣 Pitching & presentation (with recorded feedback) How to support or get involved ✅ Mentor a student (3–6 months), sit on a founder panel, or host a student group on-site to show the reality of operations. ✅ Offer non-dilutive support: grants, micro-loans, equipment, or services. ✅ Schools & districts: inquire about bringing the 8-module program to your classes.

    42 min
  6. Episode 9: How TFII is Changing the Future of Fashion in Texas

    08/28/2025

    Episode 9: How TFII is Changing the Future of Fashion in Texas

    In this episode of Beyond Giving, Zac sits down with Alix Mane von Broock from the Texas Fashion Industry Initiative (TFII) to explore how the organization is shaping the future of fashion in Texas. Alex shares her journey from teen model and actress, mentored by Selena Quintanilla, to becoming a successful entrepreneur, salon owner, and now TFII’s Education Director and Fresh Faces Director. She delves deeply into her passion for helping new talent break into the fashion world and the importance of mentorship, professionalism, and perseverance in a challenging industry. Host:  Zac Brown: “The Non-Profit Guy” LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guests:  Alix Mane von Broock: TFII’s Education Director and Fresh Faces Director LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thealixmane/ Texas Fashion Industry: https://texasfashionindustry.org/ Texas Fashion Industry LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/texasfashionindustry/ What You’ll Hear in This Episode Alex’s early beginnings in fashion and the pivotal role Selena played as her mentor. How her career in modeling and acting evolved into launching her own salon and beauty business. The mission of the Texas Fashion Industry Initiative and the programs they run to support creatives across the state. Inside the Fresh Faces program, designed to mentor aspiring models with no prior contracts or agency backing. How to handle criticism, rejection, and changing beauty standards in the fashion industry. The power of education, consistency, and adaptability in building a career. The community can get involved, including through mentorship, volunteering, or sponsorship. The role of AI and innovation in the future of fashion. Why Listen This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how a nonprofit is strengthening Texas’s creative economy by empowering models, designers, and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re in fashion, beauty, or simply passionate about supporting creatives, Alex’s story offers inspiration on resilience, mentorship, and building opportunities for others. Connect with TFII on social media. https://www.linkedin.com/company/texasfashionindustry/https://www.instagram.com/TexasFashionIndustry/https://www.facebook.com/TexasFashionIndustryhttps://twitter.com/TexasFashionInd Subscribe to Beyond Giving for more inspiring nonprofit stories on the Boost Network.

    35 min
  7. Episode 8: AI for Everyone with Learn2AI

    07/30/2025

    Episode 8: AI for Everyone with Learn2AI

    In this eye-opening episode of Beyond Giving, Zac dives deep into how artificial intelligence is becoming more accessible and why nonprofit leaders, executives, students, and everyday people need to start paying attention. He’s joined by Mihir and Aryan, the dynamic duo behind Learn2AI, a San Antonio-based nonprofit on a mission to make AI literacy mainstream by 2030. Host:  Zac Brown: “The Non-Profit Guy” LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guests:  Guests: Mihir (Founder, Learn2AI) & Aryan (Co-Founder, Learn2AI) Mihir LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mihirshahh/ Aryan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryan-prajapati-783046369/ Learn2AI LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learn2ai/ We talk about: What Learn2AI is and why it was foundedHow AI can empower non-technical usersReal-world AI use cases for youth, executives, and businessesEthical AI practices and data privacyWhy prompt engineering is the key to unlocking AI's potentialThe difference between AI assistants and AI agentsWhat their AI cohorts actually look like and who should join Get Involved Want to support or learn with Learn2AI? Trainers & Volunteers Needed: If you’re passionate about AI and education, reach out to help lead or support future cohorts.Schools, Orgs & Businesses: Host a cohort customized to your team or community's needs.Spread the Word: Recommend Learn2AI to anyone who could benefit — especially those afraid to ask. Visit: https://learn2ai.org/ Follow on LinkedIn: Learn2AI Host’s Take Zac reflects on the importance of AI literacy for the nonprofit sector and opens the door to future collaborations between Nonprofits HQ and Learn to AI. He challenges listeners to volunteer and support the mission to make San Antonio the most AI-literate city by 2030. “If you’re afraid of AI replacing your job, it might not be the AI — it’s the person who knows how to use it.” – Mihir What’s Next for Learn to AI? A Demo Day next week where current cohort participants present AI agents they’ve built.Expansion plans into universities, schools, and businesses across Texas.New cohorts launching soon — stay tuned.Subscribe & Follow for More:  Stay updated with Beyond Giving for more stories at the intersection of nonprofits, innovation, and impact. 🎙️ Beyond Giving – The Best Nonprofit Podcast on the Boost Network.

    41 min
  8. Episode 7: Y.E.S.! to Youth Entrepreneurs: Empowering the Next Generation

    07/09/2025

    Episode 7: Y.E.S.! to Youth Entrepreneurs: Empowering the Next Generation

    In this inspiring episode of Beyond Giving, host Zac sits down with Jacqueline and Joseph from Y.E.S! (Youth Entrepreneurship Services) to spotlight a San Antonio-based nonprofit that’s shaping the future of youth entrepreneurship. Learn how Y.E.S! blends business mentorship, mental health support, and real-world education to help middle and high school students launch their own business ideas—all while addressing deep-rooted community and family challenges. From mock business simulations to real VC pitch sessions, Y.E.S! empowers youth to not only dream big but also build the skills, mindset, and resilience necessary to execute those dreams. Host: Zac Brown “The Non-Profit Guy” LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/ Guests:  Jacqueline N. Hernandez (Founder & President Y.E.S.! Youth Entrepreneurship Services) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/consult-jacqueline/ Joseph Trevino (Community Engagement Lead Y.E.S.! Youth Entrepreneurship Services) Guest Organization: Y.E.S! Youth Entrepreneurship Services  What You’ll Learn What Y.E.S! Does: A breakdown of Y.E.S!'s 5-month mentorship academies, Saturday tutoring, mental health integration, and pitch-based funding competitions (“Y.E.S! Tank”). Their Mission: Bridging the gap between potential and access for underrepresented youth. Why Mental Health Matters: How trauma, disrupted homes, and lack of family support impact young entrepreneurs—and how Y.E.S! addresses it head-on. Community Impact: Stories of transformation, from students who lacked belief to youth now building parks, smart lawnmowers, and scalable startups. How They Built Their Team: Why passion alone isn’t enough, and how influence, commitment, and community ties matter in nonprofit leadership. The Power of Support: The role entrepreneurs, mentors, and sponsors can play in shaping the next generation of changemakers. Featured Quotes “We want to close the gap between potential and access.” – Jacqueline  “Mental health has to be addressed—because you can’t grow a business when you’re silently struggling.” – Joseph  “We give them tools, not just hope. When they fall, they know how to get back up.” – Jacqueline  “We’re teaching youth how to take something from seed to sprout.” – Joseph How You Can Help Y.E.S! is actively seeking: Entrepreneur MentorsBusiness Owners for Site Tours & ShadowingProgram Sponsors & Financial SupportersYouth Participants (ages 12–18)  If you’ve ever said, “I wish I knew this earlier,” here’s your chance to give that knowledge to the next generation.Connect with Y.E.S!  Website: yesnonprofit.orgInstagram: @yes.nonprofitWant to become a mentor or sponsor? Reach out through their website or DM them on Instagram.

    40 min
See All (15)

About

Beyond Giving is the podcast that goes beyond traditional philanthropy to spotlight the changemakers, visionaries, and organizations making a real impact in communities around the world. Hosted by Zac Brown, this inspiring series dives deep into the missions, challenges, and successes of nonprofits driving meaningful change. Sponsored by NonprofitsHQ, Beyond Giving features candid conversations with nonprofit leaders, social entrepreneurs, and community advocates who are redefining what it means to give back. Whether you’re a donor, volunteer, or nonprofit professional, this podcast offers valuable insights and inspiring stories that showcase the power of generosity in action.

Information

  • Creator
    The Boost Network
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Boost Network, Beyond Giving
  • Show Website
    Beyond Giving