ALC ChangeMakers Podcast

Jennifer Sconyers

This podcast showcases organizational leaders who are effecting positive change in the world and in their work. Each guest has a compelling story and key lessons learned on ways to make positive change happen.

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 24 - Donald Wells - Compassion Meets Compliance: Rethinking Nonprofit Mergers Before Starting Something New

    Episode Summary What if the best way to make a difference isn't starting another nonprofit, but strengthening the organizations already doing the work? In this episode of the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jennifer Sconyers welcomes Donald Wells, owner of Wells CPA LLC, to explore the challenges facing today's nonprofit sector and why collaboration, mergers, and fiscal sponsorship may be essential to long-term sustainability. Drawing on decades of nonprofit accounting experience, Don shares insights on funding pressures, organizational duplication, and the importance of balancing compassion with compliance. He also reflects on his own leadership journey, the power of relationships, and why sustaining a mission matters more than sustaining an organization. Connect with Donald Website LinkedIn About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 24 - Donald Wells - Compassion Meets Compliance: Rethinking Nonprofit Mergers Before Starting Something New
  2. Oct 29

    Episode 23 - Sierra Thomas - From Avoidance to Ownership: How Founders Can Build a Healthier Relationship with Their Finances

    What does it take to build a sustainable business when the economy keeps shifting and the numbers feel overwhelming? On this episode of the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jennifer Sconyers talks with Sierra Thomas, founder of Touche Financial Solutions, about her journey from corporate accounting to entrepreneurship and why understanding your numbers is essential for making confident business decisions. Sierra shares how she helps business owners move past fear and shame around finances, create systems that give them a clearer picture of their business, and make strategic choices during uncertain times. From simplifying operations to watching expenses and knowing when to pivot, Sierra offers practical insights for building a business designed for sustainability and long-term growth. Her message for entrepreneurs navigating uncertainty is simple: stay the course, know your numbers, and remember your why. Connect with Sierra Website About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 23 - Sierra Thomas - From Avoidance to Ownership: How Founders Can Build a Healthier Relationship with Their Finances
  3. Oct 15

    Episode 22 - Dr. Chelsea Mooreland - Why Direct Primary Care Is Redefining Community Health Equity

    What if better healthcare isn't about adding more complexity, but rebuilding the relationship between patients, physicians, and their communities? In this episode of the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jennifer Sconyers talks with Dr. Chelsea Mooreland, founder of Lifecycle Direct Primary Care, about how she's creating a more accessible, relationship-centered approach to healthcare. Dr. Mooreland shares why she stepped outside the traditional healthcare model, how direct primary care can help remove financial and systemic barriers, and why equitable care requires listening to patients and understanding the communities they live in. Their conversation explores what it looks like to build a mission-driven medical practice where patients aren't simply receiving care. They're part of a community working toward better health outcomes for everyone. Connect with Dr. Mooreland Website About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 22 - Dr. Chelsea Mooreland - Why Direct Primary Care Is Redefining Community Health Equity
  4. Oct 1

    Episode 21 - Maritza Nelson - AI Risks Every Nonprofit and Small Business Needs to Know (From a Lawyer's Perspective)

    What happens when the world around your organization changes faster than your plans can keep up? In this episode of the ALC ChangeMakers, host Jennifer Sconyers talks with Maritza “Shay” Nelson, founder of MSN Law Office and longtime General Counsel for ALC, about leading through uncertainty while protecting the mission that inspired your work in the first place. Shay shares her journey from corporate law to building a practice dedicated to small businesses and nonprofits, along with timely insights on funding challenges, AI, employment practices, legal risk, and organizational decision-making. It’s a practical conversation about navigating change without losing sight of your purpose, your people, or the impact you’re working to create. Connect with Shay Website LinkedIn About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 21 - Maritza Nelson - AI Risks Every Nonprofit and Small Business Needs to Know (From a Lawyer's Perspective)
  5. Sep 17

    Episode 20 - Kobe Collins - Rapid Response & Real Change: Inside Ohio's Environmental Advocacy

    Rapid Response & Real Change: Inside Ohio's Environmental Advocacy How do you inspire people to take action when the challenges feel overwhelming? In this episode of ALC ChangeMakers, Jennifer Sconyers talks with Kobe Collins, Campaign Communications Manager for the Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund, about building advocacy from the ground up, connecting people to causes they care about, and why every voice has the power to influence change. From rapid response communications to engaging the next generation of advocates, Kobe shares how strategic communication can turn concern into action.    Connect with Kobe   LinkedIn Website   About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 20 - Kobe Collins - Rapid Response & Real Change: Inside Ohio's Environmental Advocacy
  6. Sep 3

    Episode 19 - Melanie Houston - It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint: Melanie Houston on Environmental Advocacy

    It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint: Melanie Houston on Environmental Advocacy  What does it take to lead meaningful environmental change during uncertain times?  Jennifer Sconyers sits down with Melanie Houston, Vice President of Programs at the Ohio Environmental Council, to explore how mission-driven organizations stay focused, resilient, and effective even when political landscapes shift. Melanie shares her leadership journey, the power of state-level advocacy, and why sustainable leadership starts with taking care of yourself.    Connect with Melanie LinkedIn Website   About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 19 - Melanie Houston - It's a Marathon, Not a Sprint: Melanie Houston on Environmental Advocacy
  7. Aug 20

    Episode 18 - Maria Kammur - Beyond the Platform: Human-Centered Technology for Mission-Driven Organizations

    Beyond the Platform: Human-Centered Technology for Mission-Driven Organizations Technology should empower people, not complicate their work. But how do organizations choose the right solutions? In this episode of the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jennifer Sconyers talks with Maria Kammur, co-founder of stradaji, about taking a human-centered approach to technology. Maria shares how nonprofits, government agencies, and growing businesses can move beyond simply buying software to building thoughtful technology strategies that improve operations, strengthen teams, and prepare organizations for the future. Together, they explore AI, digital transformation, strategic planning, and why successful technology projects always begin with understanding people. Connect with Maria and stradaji Website: https://stradaji.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-kammur/   About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 18 - Maria Kammur - Beyond the Platform: Human-Centered Technology for Mission-Driven Organizations
  8. Aug 6

    Episode 17 - Elaine Birks-Mitchell - Making a Living from your Giving

    Making a Living from your Giving What happens when purpose and profit work together? On this episode of the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast, host Jennifer Sconyers sits down with social entrepreneur Elaine Burks-Mitchell, founder of The Bra Recyclers, to explore how businesses can create meaningful social impact while remaining financially sustainable. Elaine shares how a simple question about what to do with unwanted bras grew into a national social enterprise that supports women and girls in need, diverts textiles from landfills, and creates employment opportunities for people with disabilities. She also offers practical insights into building sustainable business models, adapting during economic uncertainty, and weaving purpose into every aspect of an organization. Connect with Elaine and The Bra Recyclers   Facebook: The Bra Recyclers Instagram: thebrarecyclers LinkedIn: The Bra Recyclers YouTube: BraRecyclers The Undie Chest: https://undiechest.org/ About Abundance Leadership Consulting The ALC ChangeMakers Podcast is brought to you by Abundance Leadership Consulting (ALC), a certified MBE/WBE consulting firm helping nonprofits, foundations, associations, and mission-driven organizations navigate change with confidence. At ALC, we specialize in strategic planning, leadership development, organizational change management, board governance, facilitation, and nonprofit mergers, acquisitions, and mission continuity planning. Through our proprietary F.A.B.R.I.C.™ Framework - Fairness, Accountability, Belonging, Relationships, Inclusion, and Collaboration - we help organizations strengthen culture, build sustainable systems, and achieve long-term impact. Exploring a Nonprofit Merger, Partnership, or Sustainability Strategy? The nonprofit sector is facing unprecedented challenges, from funding uncertainty and leadership transitions to increased operational demands and shifting community needs. Sometimes the most strategic path forward is deeper collaboration, shared services, a formal partnership, or a merger. ALC helps organizations assess opportunities, manage stakeholder engagement, navigate complex transitions, and protect mission impact throughout the process. Our approach centers people, culture, and community alongside financial and operational considerations. Learn more about our nonprofit mergers and acquisitions services at: https://nonprofit-ma.com/   Connect with Us If today's conversation sparked new ideas for your organization, we'd love to hear from you. Visit: Abundance Leadership Consulting Learn about nonprofit mergers and mission continuity: https://nonprofit-ma.com/ Connect with Jennifer Sconyers on LinkedIn Subscribe to the ALC ChangeMakers Podcast for conversations with leaders creating lasting change in their organizations and communities. Because sustainable organizations create sustainable impact.

    Episode 17 - Elaine Birks-Mitchell - Making a Living from your Giving

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

This podcast showcases organizational leaders who are effecting positive change in the world and in their work. Each guest has a compelling story and key lessons learned on ways to make positive change happen.

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