Hart & Hustle Podcast

Heather Lee from Effective Leadership Academy shares how she transformed her career path from aspiring journalist to Chief Operating Officer of a nonprofit dedicated to empowering students with essential life skills.

This is the story of discovering one's true passion amidst uncertainty— and what overwhelmed operators can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ The pivotal moment that shifted Heather's career focus and how saying "yes" can open unexpected doors.

✅ Key strategies for fostering essential skills in students, such as communication and collaboration.

✅ Insights into the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in education and leadership.

This episode is for overwhelmed operators who are seeking innovative ways to enhance their organization's impact and foster a culture of growth.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Welcome to Hart & Hustle with Heather Lee

0:06 – Heather's journey from Cleveland to diverse experiences

1:00 – The value of traveling and cultural exposure

2:15 – Parenting decisions and encouraging independence

3:40 – Heather's unexpected path to nonprofit education

5:15 – The influence of internships on career choices

6:45 – A day in the life of a nonprofit COO

7:30 – Exploring emotional intelligence in education

9:00 – The transformative power of core success skills

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Embrace the unexpected paths that lead to your true calling.

- Develop core success skills in youth to prepare them for the future.

- Emotional intelligence is a critical component of both personal and professional development.

- The importance of adaptability in the ever-changing landscape of education.

- Create environments where both students and adults can thrive together.

👤 ABOUT HEATHER LEE:

Heather Lee is the Chief Operating Officer at Effective Leadership Academy, known for her commitment to enhancing educational outcomes through vital life skills training.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-lee-55300550/

🔗 Organization Website: https://effectivela.org

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EducationReform

Kevin Dahill-Fuchel from Counseling in Schools shares how he transformed his passion for service into a thriving nonprofit in New York City.

This is the story of awakening possibilities for young people — and what visionary executives can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ The importance of meeting young people where they are and providing opportunities for growth.

✅ How personal experiences can shape a mission-driven career in nonprofit leadership.

✅ The keys to navigating organizational growth without losing sight of your mission.

This episode is for visionary executives who want to foster a culture of support and innovation within their organizations.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Introduction to Kevin and his journey in nonprofit leadership

4:00 – The driving force behind his commitment to service

7:30 – How personal values shape organizational missions

10:15 – The evolution of his role at Counseling in Schools

13:45 – The impact of mentorship and seizing opportunities

16:00 – Celebrating 40 years of Counseling in Schools

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Kevin emphasizes the significance of providing equal opportunities for young people.

- He discusses the evolution of his role from counselor to executive director and the lessons learned along the way.

- The importance of a supportive network in nonprofit leadership is highlighted.

- Understanding the broader context of nonprofit work can lead to greater impact.

- Kevin shares insights on maintaining a mission-driven focus while scaling operations.

👤 ABOUT KEVIN DAHILL-FUCHEL:

Kevin Dahill-Fuchel is the Executive Director at Counseling in Schools, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing educational success for young people in New York City. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Kevin is known for his commitment to awakening possibilities for youth through community engagement and support.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-dahill-fuchel-5418185a/

🔗 Organization Website: https://counselinginschools.org

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #YouthEmpowerment #CommunityService

Dan Stabb from Zip Code Wilmington shares how they are transforming lives through innovative workforce development in tech.

This is the story of empowerment and opportunity — and what **mission-driven leaders** can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ How Zip Code Wilmington is bridging the skills gap in tech through a unique 12-week program.

✅ The importance of integrating AI into coding education and how to leverage it ethically.

✅ Proven strategies for facilitating transformational learning experiences that cater to diverse backgrounds.

This episode is for **mission-driven leaders** who are passionate about creating impactful educational programs that adapt to the evolving job market.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Kickoff: Meet Dan and his journey into game shows

1:00 – The dream of being on a game show

2:00 – Zip Code Wilmington: Workforce development and tech skills

3:00 – The role of AI in coding education

4:00 – The importance of professional development and soft skills

5:00 – Facilitating transformation: Insights from teaching improv

6:00 – The impact of personalized coaching on students' success

7:00 – The significance of empathy in facilitation

8:00 – The challenges and rewards of working in a nonprofit

9:00 – Connecting students to job opportunities

10:00 – Future growth of Zip Code Wilmington

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- A unique approach to workforce development that prioritizes both technical and soft skills.

- The integration of AI as a learning tool rather than a replacement in tech education.

- Insights on how to facilitate meaningful transformations in students' lives.

- The importance of empathy and adaptability in teaching.

- A commitment to supporting students until they secure employment.

👤 ABOUT DAN STABB:

Dan Stabb is the Director of Admissions and Professional Development at Zip Code Wilmington, known for his innovative approach to workforce training and student empowerment.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danstabb/

🔗 Organization Website: https://zipcodewilmington.com/

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #WorkforceDevelopment #AIinEducation

Harold Turner from Ivy Hill Prep shares how he transformed educational experiences for his students through innovative leadership.

This is the story of building community and fostering individual growth — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ How to create a nurturing environment that prioritizes student welfare

✅ Effective strategies for fostering community involvement in education

✅ Techniques for adapting leadership styles to enhance teaching effectiveness

This episode is for mission-driven leaders who seek to improve educational outcomes and create meaningful connections within their communities.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Welcome to Ivy Hill Prep: A Community-Centric Approach

0:45 – The Unique Atmosphere of Brooklyn's Educational Landscape

4:00 – The Role of Community in Shaping Student Experience

7:30 – Understanding the Impact of Class Size on Learning

10:15 – The Importance of Nurturing Educators for Student Success

12:00 – Passion for Education: Insights from Harold's Journey

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Building a supportive community is essential for student success.

- Smaller class sizes lead to better understanding and relationships between students and teachers.

- Investing time in student curiosity fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.

- Leadership style should adapt to meet the needs of both educators and students.

- Personal passion for education can inspire transformative practices in schools.

👤 ABOUT HAROLD TURNER:

Harold Turner is the Head of School at Ivy Hill Prep, a charter school in Brooklyn dedicated to nurturing the whole child. With years of experience in educational leadership, Harold is passionate about fostering community and individual growth in students. Ivy Hill's mission: Every child will know who they, whose they are, and who they have the potential to become. 

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haroldjturner/

🔗 Organization Website: https://ivyhillprep.org/

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #Education #CommunityDevelopment

Karen Towery from Evergreen Life Services reveals how to effectively navigate the complexities of nonprofit leadership during challenging times. This is the story of resilience and innovation — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ The critical importance of advocacy for funding in nonprofit organizations.

✅ Innovative strategies for utilizing volunteers to maximize impact without breaking the bank.

✅ How to pivot your organization’s mission in response to changing circumstances while keeping your purpose intact.

This episode is for mission-driven leaders who want to enhance their organization’s effectiveness and ensure they meet the needs of those they serve.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Welcome and Introduction to Karen Towery

0:06 – Exciting Updates from the Nonprofit Sector

0:59 – Navigating Challenges in Nonprofit Leadership

1:26 – Advocacy and Funding: A Lifeline for Nonprofits

2:29 – Understanding Evergreen Life Services and Its Mission

3:46 – A Day in the Life of a Nonprofit Leader

5:54 – The Role of Volunteers in Nonprofit Success

9:24 – Creative Problem Solving in Resource-Limited Environments

10:48 – Building a Supportive Team Culture

12:47 – Reflecting on Past Influences and Future Aspirations

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Advocacy for Medicaid funding is crucial for supporting vulnerable populations.

- Leveraging community volunteers can significantly enhance your organization’s capabilities.

- Adaptability and creativity are key in addressing the challenges faced by nonprofits today.

- The importance of maintaining a mission-driven focus even amid operational pivots.

- Building a cohesive team culture is vital for sustaining motivation and effectiveness.

👤 ABOUT KAREN TOWERY:

Karen Towery is the State Director for Evergreen Life Services in Texas, dedicated to providing essential services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With over 27 years of experience in the field, Karen is known for her passionate advocacy and commitment to enhancing the lives of those she serves.

🔗 Organization Website: https://evergreenlifeservices.org

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #MissionDriven #Advocacy

Deborah Tepley from the Anglican Church in North America shares how she discovered her calling and transformed her career to lead faith-based organizations effectively.

This is the story of a remarkable journey from teaching English in Russia to becoming an executive director — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ The pivotal moment that reshaped Deborah's career path

✅ How international experiences broadened her leadership perspective

✅ Concrete strategies to professionalize and elevate faith-based organizations

This episode is for mission-driven leaders who aspire to create impactful change within their communities and organizations.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Welcome to the Hart & Hustle Podcast with Deborah Tepley

0:21 – Deborah's passion for purpose-driven work

0:33 – Overview of the Anglican Church in North America

0:50 – Deborah's early calling to ministry

1:47 – The role of the Peace Corps in shaping her outlook

2:29 – Insights from teaching English abroad

3:10 – Understanding the American perspective through global experiences

4:37 – Transitioning to organizational leadership

5:00 – Lessons learned from teaching in a foreign system

6:31 – Day-to-day responsibilities as an executive director

7:23 – Defining a new vision for faith-based service

8:48 – The importance of reevaluating your calling

9:17 – How to elevate your organization through professionalization

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- A transformative experience can lead to unexpected career paths.

- Understanding different cultures enhances leadership effectiveness.

- Organizational development requires a blend of faith and strategy.

- Professionalizing leadership roles can drive mission impact.

- Continuous self-evaluation is crucial for fulfilling one's calling.

👤 ABOUT DEBORAH TEPLEY:

Deborah Tepley is the Executive Director at the Anglican Church in North America, where she leads efforts to support over a thousand churches across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. With a rich background in both education and ministry, she brings a wealth of experience in organizational leadership and community service.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahtepley/

🔗 Organization Website: https://acna.org

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #MissionDriven #LeadershipInsights

Glennda Testone from the Nonprofit Leadership Lab reveals how to navigate challenges in the nonprofit sector with confidence and innovation. This is the story of transforming panic into purpose — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ How to build a supportive community among nonprofit leaders.

✅ Effective strategies for engaging with stakeholders during uncertain times.

✅ Essential resources to empower your nonprofit organization.

This episode is for mission-driven leaders who seek actionable insights to enhance their organization’s impact.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – The quiet before the storm: An introduction to Glenda's current situation and the nonprofit landscape.

2:02 – Meet Glennda Testone: CEO of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab and her mission.

3:05 – The importance of trust in nonprofits: Insights from recent studies.

4:20 – Glennda's journey through the nonprofit sector and her commitment to service.

5:32 – Resources available to nonprofit leaders: How to access tools and templates.

7:12 – Building community and communication strategies in a digital-first world.

9:01 – The balance between virtual and in-person connections in nonprofit leadership.

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Building a strong community among nonprofit leaders can lead to shared successes and solutions.

- Utilizing available resources can prevent leaders from feeling overwhelmed.

- Understanding the unique challenges of the nonprofit sector is crucial for effective leadership.

- Trust in nonprofit organizations can enhance engagement and collaboration.

- Adapting to a hybrid model of communication is essential for contemporary nonprofit leadership.

👤 ABOUT GLENNDA TESTONE:

Glennda Testone is the CEO of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab, dedicated to empowering nonprofit leaders with resources and community support. With over 26 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she is a passionate advocate for effective nonprofit leadership.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenndatestone/

🔗 Organization Website: https://nonprofitleadershiplab.com

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #CommunityBuilding #MissionDriven

Brock Yetso from the Ulman Foundation shares how he transformed personal grief into a mission to support young adults facing cancer.

This is the story of resilience and community — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ How Brock’s personal experiences shaped the Ullman Foundation’s mission to ensure no one faces cancer alone.

✅ The importance of feedback and collaboration learned from sports that can be applied to nonprofit leadership.

✅ Strategies for building a strong team when scaling a mission-driven organization.

This episode is for mission-driven leaders who want to create lasting impact and support within their communities.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Setting the stage: Brock’s journey from soccer player to nonprofit leader

0:20 – The Ullman Foundation’s mission and its origin story

1:00 – The personal loss that ignited Brock’s passion for community support

2:00 – Building a strong organization: Lessons from the field

3:00 – The role of teamwork and feedback in nonprofit growth

4:00 – Future plans for the Ullman Foundation and scaling impact

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Brock Yetso emphasizes the importance of having a community to support young adults during their cancer journey.

- Feedback is vital for continuous improvement in any organization, as learned from his sports background.

- The Ulman Foundation has grown from a solo vision to a team of 25 dedicated employees, showcasing successful mission-driven leadership.

- Personal experiences can drive powerful missions that inspire collective action.

- Sports metaphors are not just for athletes; they apply to leadership and organization building in the nonprofit sector.

👤 ABOUT BROCK YETSO:

Brock Yetso is the CEO of the Ulman Foundation, dedicated to ensuring that no young adult faces cancer alone. With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, he has transformed personal loss into a powerful mission of support and community.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brockyetso/

🔗 Organization Website: https://ulmanfoundation.org

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #CancerSupport #CommunityImpact

In this episode, Newman from The Chapel reveals how his journey from a manufacturing career to becoming a missions and outreach pastor transformed not only his life but the lives of those he serves.

This is the story of a man who embraced his calling, overcoming self-doubt and embracing the power of community — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ The importance of building personal connections in large organizations.

✅ How to leverage past experiences in a new role for greater impact.

✅ Effective strategies for fostering community engagement that resonates.

This episode is for mission-driven leaders who seek to inspire their teams and make a lasting difference in their communities.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Meet Newman and his journey from manufacturing to ministry.

0:20 – The calling that led Newman to The Chapel.

1:10 – Insights on personal connections in large organizations.

2:30 – Adapting business skills to nonprofit leadership.

3:45 – The significance of community outreach and engagement.

4:50 – Embracing the challenges of transitioning careers.

6:00 – The role of humility and continuous learning in leadership.

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Building relationships is crucial for effective leadership.

- Past experiences can be leveraged for new opportunities.

- Engaging volunteers requires understanding and appreciation.

- Trust and connection are key to community involvement.

- Embracing challenges can lead to unexpected growth.

👤 ABOUT NEWMAN:

Newman is the Missions and Outreach Pastor at The Chapel, dedicated to bringing the Great Commission to life through community service and outreach. With over 25 years in the manufacturing industry, he brings a unique perspective to mission-driven leadership.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/newman-crook-458b837/

🔗 Organization Website: thechapel.net

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #CommunityEngagement #MissionDriven

Sonia Sifuentes from Bay Area Cancer Connections shares how they provide critical support to cancer patients and their families.

This is the story of compassionate care during a challenging time — and what overwhelmed operators can learn from it.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ How Bay Area Cancer Connections serves thousands of clients annually and the impact of their virtual programming.

✅ The importance of community partnerships in nonprofit success and client referrals.

✅ Strategies for leveraging technology while maintaining a personal touch in client interactions.

This episode is for mission-driven leaders who want to enhance their organization's impact and ensure they are meeting the needs of their communities.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Meet Sonia Sifuentes: A Passionate Advocate for Cancer Patients

1:04 – The Mission of Bay Area Cancer Connections

2:49 – Day-to-Day Operations in Nonprofit Work

4:32 – The Importance of Providing Hope and Resources

5:55 – The Role of Volunteers in Nonprofit Success

6:35 – Adopting Technology While Keeping a Human Touch

7:43 – Navigating Challenges in the Nonprofit Sector

8:37 – Building Relationships with Local Health Systems

10:07 – The Power of Word of Mouth and Community Engagement

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

- Bay Area Cancer Connections serves around 3,000 clients each year, with a total of over 40,000 served since its inception.

- The nonprofit has grown to include 16 staff members and over 300 volunteers.

- Sonia emphasizes the critical role of community partnerships in reaching those in need.

- The organization is adopting new technology while ensuring a personal connection with clients remains intact.

- The episode highlights the challenges nonprofits face and the importance of adaptability and collaboration.

👤 ABOUT SONIA SIFUENTES:

Sonia Sifuentes is the Program Associate at Bay Area Cancer Connections, known for her dedication to enhancing the lives of cancer patients and their families through supportive services.

🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniasifuentes/

🔗 Organization Website: bayareacancer.org

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services. Every week, hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain sit down with nonprofit executives, operations directors, and innovators to uncover practical strategies you can implement in your organization.

Subscribe for weekly insights on nonprofit leadership, operations, and scaling mission impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

- FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #CancerSupport #CommunityImpact