Social Impact Level Up

Wendie Veloz
Social Impact Level Up Podcast

We empower social entrepreneurs & nonprofit leaders to transcend capitalism and grow world-changing ideas. We inspire you to expand your growth mindset, build a sustainable social enterprise, create true social impact, balance your wellness, and integrate holistic practices. The Social Impact Level Up Collective elevates thought leaders, experts, and successful social entrepreneurs to share their passions, solutions, and action-provoking impact ideas. Our goal is to create sustainable, long-term change by leveling up your ability to drive social impact. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

  1. Social Enterprise Secrets with Jim Kucher

    SEP 6

    Social Enterprise Secrets with Jim Kucher

    Dr. Jim Kucher shares his extensive knowledge and experiences, providing invaluable insights into the world of social enterprises. Learn about the essential strategies for success, the challenges social entrepreneurs face, and the impact these enterprises can have on communities. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for anyone interested in social entrepreneurship. Key Takeaways: The importance of understanding the market and creating value for the community. Strategies for scaling social enterprises while maintaining their mission. Overcoming common challenges in the social entrepreneurship space. The role of innovation and adaptability in the success of social enterprises. Inspirational Moments: [00:04:15] – Jim discusses his journey into social entrepreneurship and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. [00:12:30] – Insightful stories of social enterprises that successfully navigated challenges and created significant impact. [00:22:45] – Jim shares his thoughts on the future of social entrepreneurship and the trends to watch. Meet Our Guest - Jim Kucher Dr. Jim Kucher earned a Doctorate in Public Administration with a concentration in Social Entrepreneurship, as well as an MBA with an Entrepreneurship specialization from The University of Baltimore. He holds a B.A. from Kean University and has also earned certification as a project management professional and a new product development professional. Jim has been recognized as a Baltimore Renaissance Seed Scholar, an Unsung Hero of Small Business, and a Fulbright Specialist Scholar in Social Entrepreneurship. Inside Scoop:  Jim emphasizes the importance of aligning business strategies with social missions, highlighting real-life examples of social enterprises that have achieved sustainable success. He shares practical advice on how to balance profitability and impact, the significance of community engagement, and the need for continuous innovation. Jim also discusses the role of leadership and the unique challenges faced by social entrepreneurs. Important Links: Get courses, templates and more at our online store- Learn Grow Thrive: https://learngrowthrive.wendieveloz.com Get our FREE Revenue for Impact Guidebook: https://wendieveloz.com/guide Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

    32 min
  2. Integrative Wellness & Community Impact with Musu Wheeler

    AUG 23

    Integrative Wellness & Community Impact with Musu Wheeler

    Client Musu Wheeler, founder of Integrative Health Recreation, shares her comprehensive approach to integrative wellness that focuses on helping people move well, live well, and achieve a pain-free life. Through a holistic model incorporating movement, restorative therapy, and mental well-being, Musu offers unique services like body sculpting, light therapy, and personalized wellness plans.  Musu highlights her commitment to giving back to the community by providing affordable health wellness educational programs and services to underserved populations. She discusses the importance of small wins in business growth and the value of making a lasting impact on both clients and the broader community. This episode is packed with valuable insights for health and wellness small business owners who are passionate about giving back. Key Takeaways: The Importance of Movement: Musu emphasizes the significance of functional movement in daily life, such as getting out of bed or adjusting one's posture at a desk. Proper movement is crucial for preventing pain and maintaining overall well-being. Comprehensive Wellness Approach: Musu describes her integrative model that includes mind, body, spirit, and restorative therapy.  Community Impact and Business Philosophy: Musu discusses her dedication to giving back to the community by offering affordable wellness programs, advocating for health education, and addressing the needs of underserved populations. Inspirational Moments: [00:00] Introduction to Integrative Wellness [00:21] Meet Musu Wheeler: Impact and Expertise [01:29] Holistic Wellness Approach [02:39] Integrative Health and Business Model [06:08] The Role of Pilates in Wellness [09:44] Community Impact and Business Philosophy [13:27] Entrepreneurial Journey and Advice [27:15] Personal Wellness and Self-Care Meet Our Guest - Musu Wheeler:  Musu Wheeler has a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology & Health Science. Proficient in pre/post-rehab corrective exercise. Specializes in the cervical spine, neck, and hip alignment corrective exercises. Certified in integrative nutrition lifestyle practices. She is extremely passionate about facilitating nutrition meal prep planning programs. Over ten years’ experience in corporate health & Fitness. I have attained various positions such as Group Exercise specialist, Personal trainer Director, Nutrition wellness coach, and Global Health specialist. Proficient in international/global health addressing underserved populations poverty and the health of people living in lower income communities and countries. Her impact mission is to advocate for affordable health wellness educational programs for all.  Website: Integrative Health Recreation- https://musuwellness.com LinkedIn: Musu Wheeler  Inside Scoop:  Musu Wheeler’s passion for integrative wellness is rooted in her belief that functional movement and restorative therapy are keys to a healthy life. She integrates these practices with modern therapies like light therapy and body sculpting, offering a comprehensive approach to wellness. Musu’s emphasis on personalized care ensures that her clients receive tailored solutions to their health challenges, whether it’s through ergonomic consultations for corporate employees or individualized Pilates sessions. Her dedication to community impact through accessible wellness programs sets her apart as a leader in the field. Important Links: Join the Social Impact Level Up Collective for community and support: https://wendieveloz.com/collective  DIYers dream- hop in our University for templates and FREE resources: https://wendieveloz.com/university  Our website: https://wendieveloz.com/podcast Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

    32 min
  3. Impact Investing Insider Tips with Janine Firpo

    AUG 9

    Impact Investing Insider Tips with Janine Firpo

    Janine Firpo, a pioneer in values-aligned investing, shares her journey from technology and social entrepreneurship to advocating for financial decisions that reflect personal values. Janine offers practical advice and tools to help you navigate the world of impact investing, empowering you to align your investments with your values and make a meaningful impact. Key Takeaways: The importance of aligning your investments with your personal values for meaningful change. How small groups and community support can enhance your confidence and knowledge in investing. Practical tools and resources for identifying and selecting values-aligned investments. How women taking control of their financial decisions can drive social change Inspirational Moments: [00:07:45] – Janine discusses her transition from a career in technology to becoming a leader in impact investing and how personal values play a crucial role in investment decisions. [00:22:10] – Take a deep dive into the importance of creating small, supportive groups to foster learning and confidence in values-aligned investing. [00:38:25] – Janine shares powerful stories of women who have transformed their financial lives and driven social change through impact investing. Meet Our Guest - Janine Firpo:  Janine Firpo is a seasoned values-aligned investor and social innovator, with a long history of working at the intersection of women and their money. From the early years of Apple Computer to senior positions with Hewlett-Packard, the World Bank, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Janine has always found herself making an impact. In 2017 she left a successful 35-year career in technology and international development to focus on how women can create a more just and equitable society through their financial investments. Her book, Activate Your Money: Invest to Grow Your Wealth and Build a Better World, a collaborative effort that involved almost 150 women (and a few men) was published in May 2021 by Wiley. Later that year, Janine co-founded Invest for Better, a non-profit organization that helps women invest their money in ways that align with their values.  Janine walks her talk. She is taking action to move all her own assets into investments she feels good about and is watching them grow with market-rate returns. Website: Invest for Better LinkedIn: Janine Firpo Inside Scoop:  Janine Firpo has made it her mission to empower women to become confident investors who align their financial decisions with their values. Through her nonprofit, Invest for Better, she creates small groups where women can openly discuss and learn about investing. Her approach emphasizes the importance of personal values in investment choices, advocating for a personalized definition of sustainability and impact. Janine also shares practical tools and resources, such as ethos ESG and As You Sow, to help individuals make informed investment decisions. Important Links: Get courses, templates and more at our online store- Learn Grow Thrive: https://learngrowthrive.wendieveloz.com DIYers dream—hop in our University for templates and FREE resources: https://wendieveloz.com/university Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

    34 min
  4. Volunteer Power with Cristin Caine

    JUL 26

    Volunteer Power with Cristin Caine

    Cristin Caine (Charity Connect) shares her journey from special events fundraising and teaching to creating a nonprofit that specializes in matching volunteers with the perfect opportunities. Discover the transformative power of volunteering and how Charity Connect helps individuals find fulfilling and impactful volunteer roles. Uncover how one woman's pursuit of purpose led her to create a thriving business while staying true to her values and finding joy in unexpected places, like pickleball. Key Takeaways: Embrace diverse forms of giving: Cristin highlights the importance of volunteering time and skills, not just money, to make a meaningful impact. Prioritize work-life balance: Learn how balancing entrepreneurship with family life is achievable through intentionality and flexibility. Discover creative volunteering ideas and the benefits of corporate social responsibility initiatives. Inspirational Moments [00:05:12] – Cristin discusses her early experiences with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and how they shaped her approach to volunteerism. [00:9:43] - Cristin shares the importance of volunteering, why you should volunteer and what her clients get out of the experience of volunteering.   [00:15:30] – The story of a volunteer who found a perfect match through Charity Connect and the profound impact it had on both their life and the community. [00:27:45] – Cristin shares her insights on the meditative and energizing effects of volunteering and its potential to address personal struggles. Meet Our Guest- Cristin Caine Cristin’s background in special events fundraising and as a public school teacher combined with her fulfilling volunteer positions led to her creation of the nonprofit Charity Connect. Cristin engages individuals in customized community service by building relationships with her clients (potential volunteers) and organizations that utilize volunteers. In addition to individual consultations, Cristin conducts workshops to promote strategic volunteering; service which incorporates personal and professional goals. Website: https://www.charityconnect.us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charity_connect/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristincaine/ Inside Scoop Discover the art of impactful giving and work-life harmony with Cristin. She emphasizes the value of diverse contributions beyond financial donations, advocating for volunteering time and skills. Balancing entrepreneurship and family, Cristin illustrates the power of intentional time management and flexibility.  Cristin leverages a self-inventory form to start the personalized volunteer matching process, ensuring that each volunteer finds a role that aligns with their passions and skills. She also highlights innovative ways to volunteer, such as social volunteering and parties with a purpose, making it easier for busy individuals to integrate volunteering into their lives. Cristin emphasizes the importance of a good match between volunteers and nonprofits to maximize impact and personal fulfillment, sharing stories and insights that illustrate the profound effects of thoughtful and strategic volunteerism. Important Links Join the Social Impact Level Up Collective for community and support: https://wendieveloz.com/collective  DIYers dream- hop in our University for templates and FREE resources: https://wendieveloz.com/university  Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

    32 min
  5. Changemakers Guide to Funding

    JUL 12

    Changemakers Guide to Funding

    Jump into the essentials of non-profit funding for changemakers looking for resources to do good. Learn the importance of a diversified funding plan using the DPTD framework: Dollars, People, Time, and Donations. Wendie shares actionable strategies for maximizing funding sources, whether you are a non-profit or a social business owner. Discover how to create a sustainable impact by leveraging both restricted and unrestricted funding streams. Key Takeaways: Understanding Funding Streams: Learn the difference between restricted (e.g., grants, contracts) and unrestricted funding (e.g., donations, earned income). Diversified Funding Plan: Explore the DPTD framework for creating a comprehensive funding strategy. Earned Income Strategies: Discover ways non-profits and businesses can generate earned income, such as leasing space or offering services. Grants and Beyond: Gain insights into obtaining grants and other funding resources while understanding the importance of aligning these with your organization's goals. Inspirational Moments: [00:00:02] – Wendie emphasizes the importance of sustainability beyond just funding. [00:02:00] – Introduction to the DPTD framework and how it can help in maximizing resources for impact. [00:04:00] – Insightful discussion on earned income as a crucial unrestricted funding source for non-profits and businesses. [00:06:30] – Highlights the importance of grants and other restricted funding sources for long-term sustainability. [00:09:03] – Other income sources beyond grants, contracts, and earned income sources: donors, events, partnerships, and crowdfunding. Meet Our Host: Wendie Veloz Wendie Veloz is a social impact strategist, coach, and consultant with over 20 years of experience. She has a passion for helping communities and entrepreneurs create sustainable change. Wendie brings a unique perspective to her work with a background in government funding, nonprofit management, and social entrepreneurship. Wendie’s expertise helps small business and nonprofit clients develop and implement new solutions to age-old problems: ideas, impact, influence, and income.  Wendie also uses her skills as a reiki and sound healer to help social entrepreneurs break mindset barriers and change the world. Wendie is the producer and host of the Social Impact Level Up podcast building synergy and impact between nonprofits, businesses, and communities. Wendie holds a Master's Degree in Social Work Policy from Columbia University and a Bachelor's of Psychology from the University of California, Irvine. Wendie resides in Germantown, MD with her 9-year old labrador retriever Asha. Website: https://wendieveloz.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendieveloz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendieveloz Episode Transcript Highlights: Introduction to Funding Streams [00:00:02] – Welcome and episode overview by Wendie Vee. [00:00:12] – Discussion on the importance of funding for non-profits and social businesses. DPTD Framework for Diversified Funding [00:01:50] – Detailed explanation of the DPTD framework. [00:03:00] – Importance of each component: Dollars, People, Time, and Donations. Earned Income Strategies [00:04:30] – Exploring ways non-profits can generate earned income. [00:05:30] – Benefits of earned income as an unrestricted funding source. Grants and Restricted Funding [00:06:30] – Key insights into obtaining and utilizing grants for non-profits. For more detailed discussions and to dive deeper into effective funding strategies, read the full blog post: https://wendieveloz.com/nonprofit-funding Important Links: Get our FREE Revenue for Impact Guidebook: https://wendieveloz.com/guide Access our grant writing course here: https://wendieveloz.com/grants Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services --

    20 min
  6. Untapped Funding with Devin Thorpe

    JUN 28

    Untapped Funding with Devin Thorpe

    Explore of the power of crowdfunding with Devin Thorpe as your guide. Transform innovative ideas and compassionate action into meaningful change worldwide. Devin inspires listeners to harness their entrepreneurial spirit for the greater good, demonstrating that impactful leadership knows no bounds. Crowdfunding is just a part of a healthy capital stack, listen to find out how to grow your revenue and impact. Key Takeaways: Thorpe shares how businesses can drive positive social change while still generating profit. Thorpe highlights the significance of community involvement in fostering sustainable development, illustrating how grassroots initiatives can catalyze impactful change at the local level. Learn the value of innovation and adaptability in addressing evolving social challenges. How interconnectedness enables individuals and organizations to make a difference on a worldwide scale. Inspirational Moments [00:05:35] - Gathering community was a natural step from a growing podcast to Superpowers for Good, Devin’s network of changemakers is epic.  [00:8:53] - Devin shares the power of generative AI tools and how these tools are shaping what’s in store for the future.  [00:25:43] - Wendie and Devin discuss how crowdfunding can be combined with collaboration to bring together investors and those seeking funding.  Meet Our Guest- Devin Thorpe Devin is the CEO of The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation helping diverse founders and social entrepreneurs raise capital via impact crowdfunding. He is also a bestselling author who calls himself a champion of social good. He travels extensively as a volunteer doing service, as a new-media journalist finding heroes and as a speaker sharing what he’s learned.  As a Forbes Contributor, he covered social entrepreneurship and impact investing, reaching an audience of over 2 million people. He has produced over 1,200 episodes of his podcast featuring luminary change agents, including Bill Gates. His books—read over 1 million times—help people do more good. He has helped nonprofits raise millions of dollars via crowdfunding. He draws on his experience as an investment banker, CFO, treasurer and U.S. Senate staffer. He earned an MBA at Cornell. Frequently finding himself on airplanes, Devin is grateful to be middle-seat-sized. Website: https://www.superpowers4good.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devindthorpe/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devinthorpe/ Inside Scoop Devin Thorpe shares his expertise on purpose-driven entrepreneurship and social impact. He emphasizes the vital role of aligning business endeavors with a greater mission, illustrating how profit and purpose can harmoniously coexist.  Thorpe's advocacy for community engagement resonates strongly, highlighting how grassroots initiatives can drive meaningful change at the local level.  His emphasis on innovation and adaptability underscores the dynamic nature of social entrepreneurship, showcasing how creative solutions can address complex societal challenges.  Through Thorpe's engaging dialogue, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the global impact of social entrepreneurship and the transformative power of purpose-driven business models.  This conversation serves as a compelling call to action for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a positive difference in the world. Important Links Join the Social Impact Level Up Collective for community and support: https://wendieveloz.com/collective  DIYers dream- hop in our University for templates and FREE resources: https://wendieveloz.com/university  Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

    34 min
  7. Retrain Your Mindset with Naheed Oberfeld

    JUN 14

    Retrain Your Mindset with Naheed Oberfeld

    Wendie welcomes Naheed Overfield, a mindset coach specializing in helping entrepreneurs achieve success by cultivating the right mindset. Naheed shares her journey of self-discovery, emphasizing the pivotal role of mindset in overcoming setbacks and achieving fulfillment. She introduces three indispensable steps for mindset transformation: uncovering the problem, releasing limiting beliefs, and reframing thoughts. Through practices like tapping and affirmations, Naheed helps her clients break free from negative cycles and unlock their full potential. Wendie and Naheed discuss the importance of finding the right coach and techniques that resonate personally, highlighting the diverse toolkit available for mindset development. Key Takeaways: Naheed emphasizes the importance of identifying the root causes of mindset limitations that hold entrepreneurs back from success. Naheed introduces tools like tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique) to help individuals release deep-seated emotional resistance stored in the subconscious. Once resistance is released, Naheed guides individuals through the process of reframing their beliefs and retraining their mindset using techniques like affirmations. Nahid advises entrepreneurs to find a coach and techniques that resonate with them personally.  Inspirational Moments [00:03:29] - Naheed walks us through the 3 steps that are indispensable when it comes to retraining and reframing your mindset.  [00:8:53] - Naheed shares the part of the brain that holds the key to breaking the cycles that keep us stuck in a certain mindset.  [00:25:01] - Wendie and Naheed discuss the ways in which we limit ourselves from achieving the growth mindset.  Meet Our Guest- Naheed Oberfield Naheed Oberfeld is a Mindset Coach for financial success and an Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT/Tapping) practitioner. She works with business owners, career professionals, and independent consultants who are ready to achieve greater professional success, more joy, and fulfillment. Naheed’s unique process helps you release feelings of doubt, uncertainty, and even low confidence. She teaches you how to get out of your own way and has helped her clients land their dream jobs and grow successful businesses. Most importantly, they have reclaimed their happiness.  I help you "tap" into your success! Website: https://oberfeldcoaching.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oberfeld_coaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oberfeldcoaching/ Episode Inside Scoop Get into the mindset of entrepreneurship with Naheed Oberfeld, an experienced life coach. Naheed shares her journey of self-discovery, highlighting the pivotal role of mindset in overcoming setbacks and finding fulfillment.  Naheed’s three-step process includes urging entrepreneurs to first uncover their mindset barriers, then release internal resistance using techniques like tapping, and finally reframe their beliefs for lasting change.  Naheed’s emphasis on authenticity and self-compassion resonates as she gives tips for choosing the right coach.  Important Links Join the Social Impact Level Up Collective for community and support: https://wendieveloz.com/collective  DIYers dream- hop in our University for templates and FREE resources: https://wendieveloz.com/university  Podcast audio/video management by Podcast Abundance. Find out more at www.podcastabundance.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

    32 min
  8. Mastering Lean Performance Life with David Hughes

    MAY 31

    Mastering Lean Performance Life with David Hughes

    Embark on a journey to redefine fitness and well-being with David Hughes, Fitness Trainer at Lean Performance Life. Discover the transformative power of a holistic approach to health that goes beyond mere physical fitness. Join us as we delve into the philosophy behind Lean Performance Life and explore how it's reshaping the way we approach wellness. Key Takeaways: Insights into the holistic approach of Lean Performance Life, focusing on both physical fitness and overall well-being The benefits of personalized programs tailored to individual needs and accessible via an intuitive app A discussion on the importance of balance, recovery, and time management in achieving optimal performance Inspirational Moments [00:07:44] - David's insights into the holistic nature of Lean Performance Life and its focus on using personalized, accessible fitness programs to help clients find balance in their everyday routines. [00:18:16] - David's vision for Lean Performance Life and its mission to create realistic content in the age of health information overload on social media. [00:25:01] - Wendie and David discuss the importance of collaborating to build a functional website that combines user experience with visual aesthetics. Meet Our Guest- David Hughes David has over a decade of experience as a personal trainer and coach. With 8 years of competitive swimming including a season of Olympic coaching and over 20 years focusing on athletic strength and performance in the gym, David understands what it takes to achieve high performance goals first hand. David received his Bachelor's in Health and Fitness Management in 2010 and has made a tested and tenured career out of his passion. He is a true professional in his trade and is ready to expand his services and take on new clients. David currently coaches in person in King Farm at Launch Physical Therapy and Fitness Coaching. He also has clients scattered across the country, and many virtually as well  within his company , Lean Performance Life. Clients most often hire David for common goals of fat loss, strength & conditioning programs, fundamentals of athletic performance and even post Physical Therapy maintenance. Website :https://trainlpl.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lean_performance_life/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughesds84/ Episode Inside Scoop Join us for an enlightening conversation with David Hughes, Fitness Trainer at Lean Performance Life, as we explore the revolutionary approach to fitness and well-being offered by the platform.  From personalized programs accessible via an innovative app to a focus on holistic wellness and balance, discover how Lean Performance Life is transforming the way we think about health. Lean Performance Life has benefited from 1:1 individual executive coaching to increase their reach online and increase their aligned clients. Gain insights into the vision behind the brand and its mission to simplify the journey to optimal fitness in today's fast-paced world. Important Links Get our FREE Revenue for Impact Guidebook: https://wendieveloz.com/guide Access our grant writing course here: https://wendieveloz.com/grants Audio/video editing by Podcast Abundance. Find out how they can help you too by visiting www.podcastabundance.com/services --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

    32 min
5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

We empower social entrepreneurs & nonprofit leaders to transcend capitalism and grow world-changing ideas. We inspire you to expand your growth mindset, build a sustainable social enterprise, create true social impact, balance your wellness, and integrate holistic practices. The Social Impact Level Up Collective elevates thought leaders, experts, and successful social entrepreneurs to share their passions, solutions, and action-provoking impact ideas. Our goal is to create sustainable, long-term change by leveling up your ability to drive social impact. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/social-impact-level-up/support

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