IMPACTability: The Nonprofit Leaders' Podcast

Soukup Strategic Solutions
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IMPACTability: The Nonprofit Leaders’ Podcast is a dynamic and insightful series dedicated to helping nonprofit professionals navigate the challenges of leadership, fundraising, and organizational growth. Season 1 was hosted by Joe Turner, followed by Josh Hirsch, MS, in Season 2. Now in Season 3, Sheryl Soukup, President of Soukup Strategic Solutions, takes the helm, bringing her extensive nonprofit experience and deep industry insights to each episode. Sheryl engages with experts from across the sector to provide valuable perspectives and practical solutions for nonprofit professionals. From leadership and strategic planning to fundraising, operations, and more, IMPACTability delivers knowledge and inspiration to help nonprofits grow and make a lasting impact. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, discover fresh ideas, or tackle challenges with confidence, this podcast is your trusted resource for nonprofit excellence.

  1. From Stage to Strategy: Using Creativity to Strengthen Communities

    10/21/2025

    From Stage to Strategy: Using Creativity to Strengthen Communities

    Creativity is more than expression—it’s impact. In this episode, United Arts Collier CEO Elysia Dawn shows how arts organizations can build stronger, more inclusive communities by using creativity as a bridge between people, cultures, and causes. Her story reminds nonprofit leaders that when we remove barriers to participation, we create space for connection, healing, and shared purpose. A former professional ballet dancer turned arts leader, Elysia has dedicated her life to sharing the transformative power of creativity. Drawing on her experiences performing with world-class companies and curating programs at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, she now leads a movement in her hometown to make the arts accessible for all—championing collaboration, advocacy, and community pride through United Arts Collier. Along the way, she opens up about the realities of nonprofit leadership—funding, inclusivity, and sustainability—and how creative problem-solving and storytelling can help organizations thrive. Whether you lead a nonprofit, support the arts, or believe in the power of creativity, this episode is a reminder that the arts don’t just enrich lives—they strengthen communities. Prefer Video? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_fWCJdZtCEI Standout Quotes “The arts are for everybody—we’re here to lower barriers and bring people together.” (28:10) “Creative collaboration is how we stretch our reach and resources—it’s what keeps nonprofits sustainable.” (35:42) “Follow your heart, but keep your eyes and ears open to how you can serve your community.” (48:08) Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to IMPACTability® 01:04 – From Ballet to Boardroom: Elysia’s Journey into Nonprofit Leadership 06:10 – Lessons from The Met: Blending Art, Strategy, and Audience Growth 12:44 – Returning Home: Leading Through Creativity in Collier County 17:59 – The Mission: Arts Education, Advocacy & Access 22:20 – Building Community Through Collaboration & Inclusion 29:10 – The Healing Power of the Arts: Wellbeing and Connection 34:33 – Funding, Sustainability & Creative Problem-Solving in the Arts 42:45 – Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future: The Collier Arts Archive Project Guest Bio Elysia Dawn believes in the power of creativity to connect people and strengthen communities. A Naples native and former professional ballet dancer, she knows firsthand how the arts can shape lives—and she’s made it her mission to ensure those opportunities are accessible to everyone. Today, as CEO of United Arts Collier, Elysia leads with both artistry and strategy, bringing people together across Collier County through arts education, community partnerships, and advocacy. Her journey from performing with Boston Ballet and Complexions Contemporary Ballet to curating performances at the Metropolitan Museum of Art taught her that creativity isn’t just about performance—it’s about purpose. Elysia’s leadership reflects her belief that the arts can be a force for unity, healing, and economic growth. She continues to serve on statewide and regional councils that champion arts and culture, while keeping her focus rooted in community—using collaboration and inclusion to turn creative vision into real-world impact. Learn More & Connect Website: a...

    50 min
  2. Turning Grief Into Impact: From Personal Loss to Purpose-Driven Leadership

    10/14/2025

    Turning Grief Into Impact: From Personal Loss to Purpose-Driven Leadership

    When tragedy strikes, few people find the strength to turn it into something greater—but that’s exactly what Casey McGovern, Executive Director of Every Child a Swimmer, has done. After losing her daughter in a preventable drowning, Casey made a promise to dedicate her life to saving others. Today, that promise has become a powerful movement to make water safety education and swim lessons accessible to every child. In this heartfelt conversation, Casey shares the story behind her mission, the challenges of growing a grassroots program into a national initiative, and the leadership lessons that have guided her along the way. From advocacy and legislation to fundraising and team building, this episode offers nonprofit leaders a rare blend of personal insight and professional wisdom. Whether you lead a nonprofit, support one, or care deeply about community safety, this conversation is a reminder that even the deepest pain can inspire purpose—and that one person’s promise can ripple into impact for generations to come. Prefer Video? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/B-vAovTqePQ Standout Quotes “When times get tough, I use my pain for a greater purpose—to help someone else. That’s what keeps me going.” (10:21) “Reaching a zero drowning rate would be my ultimate dream come true.” (08:12) “You may hear ‘no’ repeatedly, but just keep trying to figure out the solution—don’t give up.” (23:24) Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to IMPACTability® 01:17 – From Tragedy to Advocacy: Casey’s Promise Begins 04:30 – Building Every Child a Swimmer: Access Meets Advocacy 08:12 – The Dream of Zero Drownings 10:21 – Turning Pain Into Purpose: Finding Strength Through Service 13:15 – Leading with Heart: Building a Passion-Driven Team 19:48 – Fundraising with Purpose: Growing a Mission That Saves Lives 23:24 – Lessons in Leadership: Resilience, Faith & Authenticity 37:11 – Empowering Boards to Champion the Mission Guest Bio Casey McGovern leads with extraordinary courage and compassion. As Executive Director of Every Child a Swimmer, a division of the International Swimming Hall of Fame, Casey has dedicated her life to preventing the heartbreak her own family endured. After the loss of her 19-month-old daughter, Em, in a tragic drowning accident, Casey made a promise to turn her pain into purpose. That promise evolved into a mission—first through her work with the Florida Department of Health, and now through Every Child a Swimmer, where she champions legislation, education, and access to swim lessons for families in need. Today, Casey’s advocacy reaches across states, communities, and generations. Her leadership is both personal and powerful—a reminder that one mother’s determination can transform grief into a movement that saves lives. Learn More & Connect Website: https://everychildaswimmer.org LinkedIn (Casey): https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-mcgovern-234b9b23a/ LinkedIn (Organization): https://www.linkedin.com/company/every-child-a-swimmer/ Facebook: a...

    42 min
  3. From Struggle to Service: Lessons in Authentic Leadership

    10/07/2025

    From Struggle to Service: Lessons in Authentic Leadership

    Authentic leadership grows from lived experience—and the courage to share it. What does authentic leadership look like when your story begins with struggle? In this episode, Maricela Morado, President & CEO of the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, shares how her lived experiences as a young parent became the foundation for a career built on compassion and impact. From serving thousands of older adults and people with disabilities to navigating hurricanes, funding shifts, and community partnerships, Maricela offers a heartfelt look at what it means to lead with empathy. She opens up about finding strength in vulnerability, the importance of asking for help, and why listening and mentorship are essential for every nonprofit leader. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, supporting one, or simply passionate about community impact, this episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about service, authenticity, and leaving people better than you found them. Prefer Video? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PWrAeJe0xKM Standout Quotes “Leadership isn’t about being the smartest person in the room—it’s about creating space where everyone’s wisdom can emerge.” (18:53) “Your story can inspire someone to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to share it.” (34:22) “Don’t be afraid to ask questions—you don’t have to know it all.” (34:46) Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to IMPACTability 01:10 – From Teen Parent to Nonprofit CEO: Maricela’s Journey 03:45 – Finding Purpose and Leading with Heart 06:40 – Inside the Area Agency on Aging: Mission & Community Impact 10:15 – Stories of Hope: How Nonprofits Change Lives 14:00 – Authentic Leadership: Building Trust and Empowering Teams 20:15 – Mentorship, Peer Networks & Growth for Nonprofit Leaders 25:45 – Diversifying Funding & Sustaining Community Programs 32:40 – Lessons for Nonprofit Leaders and Board Members Guest Bio Maricela Morado leads with heart and purpose. As President and CEO of the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL), she works every day to ensure that older adults and people with disabilities have the resources, dignity, and independence they deserve. Her path to leadership didn’t start in a boardroom—it began with personal experience. As a teen parent who once turned to nonprofits for help, Maricela saw firsthand how compassion and community can change lives. That experience became her calling. Today, she oversees an organization serving seven counties across Southwest Florida, connecting thousands of people to meals, housing, health programs, and hope. Under her guidance, AAASWFL has expanded its reach, built partnerships, and responded to community crises with empathy and innovation. Named to Gulfshore Business’s 40 Under 40 and honored as one of the Community Foundation of SWFL’s Top 30 Nonprofit Leaders, Maricela continues to champion collaboration, mentorship, and leadership that makes space for every voice. Her story is a reminder that impact begins when we turn our struggles into service. Learn More & Connect Website: https://aaaswfl.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maricelamorado Facebook: a...

    41 min
  4. Grounded Leadership: Resilience, Legacy & Clarity in Crisis

    09/30/2025

    Grounded Leadership: Resilience, Legacy & Clarity in Crisis

    Nonprofit leadership is never just about the mission—it’s about the people leading it, the clarity they bring, and the balance they maintain along the way. In this episode of IMPACTability®, Dastan Khalili, CEO of Cal Earth, shares how continuing his father’s legacy taught him that true leadership requires more than vision: it requires resilience, self-care, and staying grounded in purpose. From Super Adobe technology that equips communities with sustainable shelters after disasters, to the personal lessons of balancing service with well-being, Dastan offers a roadmap for nonprofit leaders navigating growth, transition, and impact. His story is both practical and inspiring—reminding us that innovation and legacy can work hand-in-hand when leaders stay clear about why they serve. Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KFGf851jOEw Standout Quotes “If you believe, it will always work out.”— [04:26] Dastan reflects on the uncertainty after his father’s passing and how trusting the work and service helped guide their path forward. “Are you looking for the footprints of the lion or are you a lion hunter?” — [21:00] Dastan shares a Rumi-inspired story to illustrate the importance of authentic service in nonprofit leadership. “Drop by drop the water gathers until suddenly it becomes an ocean.” — [30:30] Dastan describes the long-term nature of Cal Earth’s mission and the generational impact of sustainable housing solutions. Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast 01:10 – A Legacy of Sustainable Shelter 04:20 – Trusting the Work: Lessons in Leadership 08:02 – Daily Inspiration & Community Empowerment 10:58 – SuperAdobe Explained: Building with Earth 14:19 – Global Impact: From Haiti to Hormuz 17:24 – Are You a Lion Hunter? Leadership Lessons from Rumi 22:11 – Self-Care & Balance in Nonprofit Leadership 28:12 – Riding the Waves: Disaster Recovery & Long-Term Vision Guest Bio Dastan Khalili is the President of Cal Earth Institute of Earth Art & Architecture, where he continues the visionary work of his father, Nader Khalili. From the age of four, Dastan was immersed in the world of earth architecture, traveling alongside his father on a mission to solve global housing challenges. Today, he leads Cal Earth with a deep commitment to sustainability, education, and service. Under his leadership, the Institute has expanded its reach worldwide, empowering individuals to build disaster-resistant shelters using SuperAdobe technology. Dastan is also an award-winning filmmaker whose documentaries on his father’s work are part of Cal Earth’s curriculum. His passion for service, storytelling, and harmony with nature drives everything he does. Learn More & Connect Website: https://calearth.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calearth/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/calearth/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calearthinstitute/ Love What You Heard? Help Us...

    34 min
  5. Mission Over Tradition: Rethinking Fundraising and Board Leadership

    09/23/2025

    Mission Over Tradition: Rethinking Fundraising and Board Leadership

    What happens when a nonprofit leader brings financial expertise, deep compassion, and a flexible support model to one of life’s hardest battles—cancer? In this episode of IMPACTability®, Neftali Feliciano, CEO of Cancer Alliance Network, shares how his organization is transforming lives through non-medical financial aid, community partnerships, and mission-first fundraising. From navigating Board dynamics to rebranding for regional impact, Neftali offers real-world insights into governance, sustainability, and leadership transitions. If you're a nonprofit professional looking for actionable strategies to strengthen your Board, diversify funding, or lead with purpose, this episode delivers the clarity and inspiration you need. Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NoM2tv2ZXnc Standout Quotes “We helped them with financial aid, but we got our hearts full. That’s the real impact.” — [06:52] “Once the Board votes, that’s it. You fall in line and show unity—because it’s not about you, it’s about the mission.” — [16:07] “Don’t underestimate the power of taking the shackles off. Let’s focus on what we can do.” — [41:10] Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast 01:39– Leading Cancer Support with Compassion and Strategy 08:27 – From Wall Street to Nonprofit CEO: A Purpose-Driven Pivot 12:59 – Board Leadership: Time, Talent, and True Commitment 16:07 – Governance That Works: Unity and Focus on the Board 22:21 – Staying Mission-First Through Organizational Growth 31:33 – Funding Real Impact: Diversifying Revenue for Sustainability 39:02 – Rethinking Fundraising: Mission-First Events That Engage 45:29 – Rebranding for Regional Reach and Community Connection Guest Bio Neftali Feliciano leads with heart, strategy, and a deep commitment to community. As CEO of Cancer Alliance Network, he’s at the helm of a nonprofit that provides non-medical financial aid to cancer patients across Southwest Florida—meeting families in crisis with compassion and flexibility. Before stepping into nonprofit leadership, Neftali built a successful career in financial services. But it was personal loss and a calling to serve that led him to pivot from Wall Street to mission-driven work. Today, he blends business acumen with faith-based service, mentoring at-risk youth, serving on regional advisory committees, and championing equity through organizations like 100 Black Men of America SWFL and the Freedom and Virtue Institute. A music educator, saxophonist, and audio engineer, Neftali brings creativity and soul to everything he does. He lives in Fort Myers with his wife and four children and is an active member of New Life Christian Church. His leadership is rooted in the belief that investing in people always pays off—and his story is proof. Learn More & Connect Website: www.canceralliancenetwork.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cancer-alliance-network/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/neftalifeliciano X (Twitter): @Nef_CEO Love What You...

    50 min
  6. Leading Through Crisis & Growth: Empowering People from Within

    09/16/2025

    Leading Through Crisis & Growth: Empowering People from Within

    In this episode of IMPACTability®, Steve Brooder, CEO of St. Matthew’s House, shares how he led one of Southwest Florida’s most impactful nonprofits through explosive growth, a global pandemic, and a legacy-defining transition. His story is a masterclass in nonprofit leadership, strategic growth, and faith-driven service. From scaling food assistance from 300 to 4,000 families in a single month to launching transitional housing and workforce development programs, Steve’s tenure shows what’s possible when mission meets momentum — and when leadership is rooted in purpose. Whether you're navigating succession planning, building community partnerships, or leading a faith-based organization, this episode offers powerful insights for nonprofit leaders who want to make a lasting impact. Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/wnEsuymNXuI Standout Quotes “What if there was no St. Matthew’s House?” — [21:53] “We accept people because of who we are, not because of who they are.” — [25:38] “Loneliness is one of the leading causes for homelessness and addiction. People need to feel connected.” — [30:23] Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast 01:05 – From Business to Mission: Steve Brooder’s Nonprofit Journey 03:00 – Meeting the Moment: Scaling Food Assistance During Crisis 05:51 – Addiction Recovery: Faith-Based Success & Alumni Impact 09:02 – Workforce Development Through the Empowerment Hub 14:49 – Transitional Housing: Preventing Relapse & Supporting Stability 21:07 – Leading with Faith: Values-Driven Nonprofit Leadership 24:55 – Succession Planning: Preparing for a Sustainable Future 31:59 – Legacy Leadership: Reflections on Retirement & Impact Guest Bio Steve Brooder has spent more than a decade leading St. Matthew’s House with a rare blend of business strategy and heart. As CEO, he guided the organization through extraordinary growth and unprecedented challenges — including a global pandemic, natural disasters, and rising community needs — all while staying grounded in faith and mission. Under his leadership, St. Matthew’s House served nearly 890,000 households with groceries, graduated nearly 1,000 individuals from its recovery program, and created transitional housing solutions to prevent relapse and homelessness. His legacy is one of impact, integrity, and unwavering commitment to those in need. Now entering retirement, Steve leaves behind a nonprofit built to thrive — and a leadership model rooted in purpose, compassion, and community. Learn More & Connect Website: https://stmatthewshouse.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stmatthewshouse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stmatthewshouseswfl/ Love What You Heard? Help Us Grow! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new listeners discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders. Subscribe to IMPACTability® on a...

    49 min
  7. Fighting for the Underdog: Leading with Perseverance

    09/09/2025

    Fighting for the Underdog: Leading with Perseverance

    Nonprofit leadership isn’t easy. It takes grit, resilience, and the courage to keep showing up when challenges stack up. In this episode of IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast, Becca Bryan, Board Chair of Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge, shares what it means to fight for the underdog and lead with perseverance. From rescuing stranded dolphins and whales in the Florida Keys to championing conservation for Florida’s endangered panther, Becca’s journey shows how passion, commitment, and advocacy shape strong nonprofit leadership. Her story is a reminder that you may not change the whole world — but you can change your part of it. Packed with lessons on Board service, community engagement, and staying the course, this conversation is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders who want to make a lasting impact. Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/5HiaUWcHc-Y Standout Quotes “I’m a strong fighter for the underdog… any animal that needs a champion and someone to speak for them when they can’t speak for themselves.” — [03:23] “Stay the course. Fight through the weeds.” — [25:25] “You may not be changing the world, but you are changing this one part of the world — and that can mean so much more.” — [26:39] Chapters & Timestamps 00:01 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast 01:06 – From Dolphins to Panthers: Becca Bryan’s Path into Nonprofit Work 04:05 – Inside Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge: Mission & Board Snapshot 08:09 – What Keeps Leaders Going: Belief in the Mission & Community Outreach 11:05 – Visibility Wins: SEO, “Path of the Panther,” and Nationwide Awareness 17:20 – Resources That Lift Leaders: CORFA, Mentors, and Peer Networks 21:02 – Hard Lessons in Volunteer Management: Communication, Authority & Safety 25:16 – Perseverance & Commitment: Board Advice, Getting Started, and How to Connect Guest Bio Becca Bryan is a writer, editor, and passionate wildlife advocate serving as Board Chair of Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge. Based in Fort Lauderdale, she blends storytelling with leadership to raise awareness for one of Florida’s most endangered species. Her journey into conservation began in the Florida Keys, where she volunteered thousands of hours rescuing stranded dolphins and whales. That experience shaped her relentless commitment to protecting animals who can’t speak for themselves. Today, she leads Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge, guiding a diverse Board, educating the public, and supporting conservation efforts across the state. Becca’s writing has been featured in National Geographic’s Voices Blog, USO On Patrol, and VeteransEnterprise.com. Whether through her published work or her nonprofit leadership, she continues to champion wildlife, inspire communities, and prove the power of commitment in driving nonprofit success. Learn More & Connect Website: http://floridapanther.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FOFPR...

    34 min
  8. Running Nonprofits Like a Business: Data, Strategy, and Impact

    09/02/2025

    Running Nonprofits Like a Business: Data, Strategy, and Impact

    Nonprofit leadership isn’t just about managing resources — it’s about vision, resilience, and the bold action it takes to solve the toughest challenges in our communities. Dr. Dawn Belamarich, CEO of Collaboratory, is leading a bold mission to solve Southwest Florida’s biggest social challenges by 2040. With roots as a therapist and the discipline of a business leader, Dawn shares how she blends compassion with strategy to drive impact. From data-driven initiatives to scholarships that change lives forever, her leadership lessons resonate with nonprofit executives, Board members, and emerging leaders alike. You’ll learn: Why every nonprofit must be run like a business to sustain its mission How optimism became Dawn’s leadership superpower—and why it matters The power of scholarships and community funding to change lives Straight talk for Board members and CEOs navigating tough times Why knowing your “why” is essential for every nonprofit professional If you’re ready for practical wisdom, candid insights, and real inspiration to lead with courage, this episode is for you. Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/9IXlGHn0eQY. Standout Quotes “A nonprofit is a business. If there’s no money, there’s no mission.” — [18:03] “It’s the game changer of game changers when you see a life transformed by a scholarship.” — [15:43] “Know your why. Write it on your mirror, remind yourself every day, because many things will try to take you off course.” — [40:12] Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Collaboratory’s Bold 2040 Mission 01:05 – From Therapist to Nonprofit CEO: An Unexpected Journey 07:15 – Finding Inspiration in People, Innovation, and Optimism 13:42 – Scholarships & Success Stories That Change Lives 18:03 – Running Nonprofits Like a Business 21:39 – Navigating Funding Challenges with Collaboration 24:21 – Straight Talk for Board Members and Nonprofit CEOs 29:47 – Failures, Lessons, and Surprising Leadership Insights 38:12 – Final Advice for Nonprofit Leaders: Know Your Why Guest Bio Dr. Dawn Belamarich is President & CEO of Collaboratory, Southwest Florida’s regional community foundation with a bold mission to solve the area’s biggest social challenges by 2040. A licensed mental health therapist with a doctorate in business and leadership, Dawn brings a unique blend of compassion and strategy to her work. Before joining Collaboratory, she held senior leadership roles at Recovery Centers of America, where she led clinical and operational excellence for a national addiction treatment provider. Her career spans both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, giving her a distinctive perspective on driving impact with business discipline. Dawn also serves on the Board of the ARCHway Institute, a national organization providing education and resources for those impacted by addiction. Originally from New Jersey, she now calls Cape Coral, Florida home, where she enjoys the outdoors, spending time with family, and life with her husband Dave and their...

    44 min
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About

IMPACTability: The Nonprofit Leaders’ Podcast is a dynamic and insightful series dedicated to helping nonprofit professionals navigate the challenges of leadership, fundraising, and organizational growth. Season 1 was hosted by Joe Turner, followed by Josh Hirsch, MS, in Season 2. Now in Season 3, Sheryl Soukup, President of Soukup Strategic Solutions, takes the helm, bringing her extensive nonprofit experience and deep industry insights to each episode. Sheryl engages with experts from across the sector to provide valuable perspectives and practical solutions for nonprofit professionals. From leadership and strategic planning to fundraising, operations, and more, IMPACTability delivers knowledge and inspiration to help nonprofits grow and make a lasting impact. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, discover fresh ideas, or tackle challenges with confidence, this podcast is your trusted resource for nonprofit excellence.

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