Hart & Hustle Podcast

Brian Miller from Nonprofit Vote shares how building powerful community partnerships and emphasizing voter engagement can significantly expand a nonprofit's program reach. This is the story of how strategic collaboration and civic involvement transform community impact — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

In this episode, you'll discover:

* How nonprofits can leverage partnerships with local organizations to amplify their message and expand influence
* The crucial role of asking — and how the simple act of making an ask can unlock new resources and support
* How voter engagement drives program success by empowering communities and increasing organizational influence

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 – The power of community partnerships in nonprofit program expansion
3:12 – Brian's journey from advocacy to civic engagement and the importance of asking
5:46 – Effective outreach strategies: Word of mouth, partnerships, and community involvement
7:11 – How nonprofits can diversify funding sources beyond foundations and grants
8:00 – The importance of making the ask and overcoming fundraising challenges
9:36 – Personal stories of victories and why celebrating wins fuels nonprofit momentum
11:03 – Building emotional stamina for outreach and asking in community organizing
13:25 – Inspiring stories of community wins, including environmental justice victories
15:58 – Brian’s personal calling: From privilege to purpose — and the power of lived experience
17:42 – The profound impact of tragedy and social injustice on social activism
19:32 – Creating lasting change through systemic work and upstream impact
21:02 – The importance of cultural values and shaping collective realities
24:29 – How nonprofits can fill information gaps around local elections and policies
26:23 – Engaging communities in candidate forums and local voter education campaigns
28:16 – The art of storytelling and how relatable content breaks through the noise in the digital age
30:20 – How nonprofits can influence local policy and drive systemic change
32:13 – The difference between nonprofit and partisan voter engagement efforts
34:16 – The measurable impact of nonprofit-led voter outreach on community participation
37:07 – Practical steps for nonprofits to engage in policy advocacy and civic life
37:58 – Connecting communities through digital and social media strategies

ABOUT BRIAN MILLER:
Brian Miller is the Executive Director of Nonprofit Vote, leading efforts to help nonprofits engage their communities in civic participation. With over 30 years of experience in advocacy, coalition-building, and voter engagement, he exemplifies how strategic relationships and civic action can create a broader program reach and deeper community impact.

Brian's Band: https://www.facebook.com/knottedpineband
Organization Website: http://nonprofitvote.org

ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:
Hart & Hustle delivers weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders tackling real challenges across healthcare, education, and community services. Keenan Hart and Efrain connect with nonprofit pioneers, innovators, and operators to share practical strategies that scale mission impact.

CONNECT WITH US:

* FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #CommunityImpact #VoterEngagement

Wendy Kelley from Augustana College shares how her love of plants mirrors her approach to leadership and community-building—fostering growth, resilience, and transformation. This is the story of a purpose-driven leader who turned her passion into a career that shapes student success—and what mission-driven leaders can learn from her journey.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How Wendy’s plant care philosophy parallels her leadership style—building resilient teams and nurturing potential
• Practical strategies for engaging parents and students in higher education communication
• The role of authentic relationship-building in creating a supportive, inclusive campus culture

This episode is for mission-driven leaders in education who want to deepen student engagement, foster meaningful connections, and lead with purpose.

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 – The symbolism of plants in Wendy’s leadership and life philosophy
1:00 – How resilience in plants reflects resilience in leadership teams
2:12 – Building community through outdoor and indoor gardening passions
4:24 – The significance of local traditions like tug of war in creating community bonds
6:33 – Wendy’s journey from aspiring park ranger to college admissions leader
8:02 – The power of “one person, one moment” in shaping career paths
9:37 – Navigating career pivots and following passions in higher education
12:43 – Involving parents in student success and decision-making processes
15:15 – Leveraging human connection over AI-driven marketing in college recruitment
21:18 – Addressing challenges in higher ed retention amid social media and shifting demographics
24:14 – How Wendy’s family’s college journeys embody the impact of education
31:43 – Supporting first-generation students: overcoming financial and confidence barriers
34:00 – The importance of support systems and scholarship programs in student retention

ABOUT WENDY KELLEY:
Wendy Kelley is Director of Admissions at Augustana College, known for her passionate advocacy for student success and community engagement. With over 20 years in higher education, she’s dedicated to creating accessible pathways for first-generation students and fostering campus cultures rooted in purpose and resilience.

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-kelley-31b6009b/
Organization Website: https://www.augustana.edu

ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:
Hart & Hustle brings mission-driven leaders in healthcare, education, and community service together to share real-world strategies for transforming lives. Hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain dive into practical leadership insights that you can implement today to scale your impact.

CONNECT WITH US:

• FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#HigherEducationLeadership #StudentSuccess #CommunityBuilding

Mike MacLeod from the Boys and Girls Club shares how investing in community youth creates lasting impact.

This is the story of how dedicated leadership transforms young lives — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

Timestamps:

0:00 – The mission behind the Boys and Girls Club in West Springfield

1:14 – The importance of purpose-driven work rooted in community service

2:36 – Representation and male role models in youth development

3:12 – Cultivating future staff and fostering career paths in community work

4:02 – Unique programs and resources offered, including tech, drones, and emerging AI initiatives

5:02 – The challenge and opportunity of integrating AI education

6:18 – Building spaces for esports and digital skills training

7:00 – The importance of recognition and mentorship roles in community impact

8:17 – Consistency in mentorship and leadership’s role in building trust

9:34 – Listening to youth and following through on commitments

10:06 – The significance of impact-oriented staffing and program delivery

11:32 – Tracking long-term outcomes and alumni success stories

12:09 – Addressing the middle school gap and early intervention strategies

13:40 – The importance of community feedback and youth-led program design

14:12 – Expanding facilities and programming to meet growing demand

15:01 – Resources for youth after hours and online engagement options

16:43 – Adapting and growing facilities to serve more kids

17:16 – Future goals for expansion, program evolution, and workforce development

18:35 – Unique enrichment programs and tailoring offerings to community needs

19:19 – The scale of operations and impact of the Boys and Girls Club

20:40 – Funding sources, community partnerships, and sustaining programs

22:07 – Overcoming campus limitations and providing safe youth spaces

23:14 – Strategic board engagement rooted in community representation

24:21 – Leadership growth and the vision for the next five years

26:47 – Mentoring youth without a father figure and fostering hope

27:17 – The power of persistence, community support, and investing in youth

27:56 – Final inspiration: Keep going, the impact is worth it

About Mike MacLeod:
Mike is the Director of Operations at the Boys and Girls Club in West Springfield, Massachusetts. Known for his focus on youth development, purpose-driven leadership, and community partnership, Mike has dedicated his career to empowering young people with critical skills and mentorship.

Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-macleod-857997a/
Organization Website: https://wsbgclub.org

About Hart & Hustle:
Hart & Hustle brings weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders transforming healthcare, education, and community services. Keenan Hart and Ephraim uncover practical strategies to help nonprofit leaders and social entrepreneurs scale their impact.

Connect with us:

• Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #YouthDevelopment #CommunityImpact

This is the story of a first-generation, low-income student turned nonprofit leader—showing mission-driven leaders how resilience and resourcefulness can create profound community impact. Cara Magliaro from Peninsula College Fund shares how her journey from imposter syndrome to empowering underserved students exemplifies the true potential of persistence.

⚠️ In this episode, you'll learn:

✅ Practical strategies for boosting college access and success for first-gen, low-income students
✅ How to leverage alumni networks for ongoing mentorship and fundraising
✅ Creative engagement tactics—like SMS and newsletters—that effectively communicate with students and alumni

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 – The transformational power of persistent leadership in education
1:00 – Cara Magliaro’s journey from first-gen student to nonprofit founder
3:00 – Overcoming imposter syndrome and financial barriers in college
6:00 – The importance of strong community and alumni networks
9:00 – Fundraising challenges and the role of foundations in nonprofit success
13:00 – How to effectively reach and engage high school students and their families
16:00 – Strategies for scaling support without federal funding
20:00 – The power of persistence and grit—stories of students overcoming adversity
23:00 – Preparing students for AI and technological advancements
27:00 – Vision for the future: expanding program services and community impact

📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Strong alumni networks serve as vital support systems for both mentorship and fundraising
• High engagement with concise, impactful digital communication increases program participation
• Funding continuity hinges on diversifying sources—private donors and community partnerships are critical
• Persistence and resilience are key to student success—many students need more time and support than traditional pathways allow
• Tech literacy, especially AI, must be integrated into educational programs to prepare students for the future

👤 ABOUT CARA MAGLIARO:
Cara Magliaro is the Executive Director of Peninsula College Fund, leading a mission to empower first-generation, low-income students from the San Francisco Bay Area to complete college and thrive. With over six years at the helm, she leverages her own experience as a first-gen graduate to inspire the next generation of leaders.

🔗 Learn more about Peninsula College Fund: https://www.peninsulacollegefund.org/

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle delivers weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real-world problems in education, health, and community service. Keenan Hart and Efrain interview nonprofit executives, innovators, and operators to uncover actionable strategies for scaling impact.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

• Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #EducationEquity #MentorshipMatters

Cat from Be Nice shares how their evidence-based mental health programs are breaking down stigma and empowering youth and communities to prioritize mental well-being. This is the story of a nonprofit's journey to create lasting culture shifts — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from this transformative work.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

• How early education can reduce mental health stigma and foster openness in youth
• The five-step Be Nice Action Plan to challenge stigmas and foster psychological safety
• Strategies for building community ownership and leadership around mental health topics

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 – Introduction to Be Nice’s mission and the founder's journey
1:14 – Evolution of mental health conversations in schools over 14 years
1:52 – Cultural differences in stigma and language around mental health
2:19 – Impact of social media and self-diagnosis on stigma
3:04 – Moving from shame to openness in understandings of ADHD, anxiety, and depression
4:36 – The importance of ongoing conversations and future initiatives
5:26 – The Be Nice Action Plan: notice, invite, challenge
6:40 – How generational perspectives on mental health shape current attitudes
8:16 – Finding purpose in nonprofit work inspired by personal and family experiences
9:43 – Building confidence and storytelling skills as young leaders
11:46 – The power of shared stories in healing and leadership development
13:13 – Facilitating brave conversations about mental health in schools
15:22 – Lessons learned from public speaking and leadership growth
19:10 – The importance of intentional boundaries for mental health
20:42 – The ripple effect of changing just one life
22:50 – How outdoor activities like sailing and hiking nourish mental well-being
23:47 – The value of silence, solitude, and self-care for mental health
25:18 – Practical tips for communicating about mental health and self-advocacy
27:10 – The impact of authentic connection and assessing new social environments
29:36 – Staying motivated amid funding challenges and mission fatigue
37:22 – How community donations support early prevention programs
38:52 – Spreading awareness: social media, leadership groups, and young influencers
39:30 – Maintaining the "why" through feedback, celebration, and purpose
40:57 – Closing thoughts: leadership, legacy, and the power of storytelling

ABOUT CAT LANTING:
As Director of Programs and Expansion at Be Nice, Cat leads evidence-based mental health initiatives that have changed thousands of lives. With over a decade of experience, she is passionate about fostering safe spaces where youth and communities can discuss mental health openly and without shame.

Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catlanting/
Organization Website: https://benice.orgABOUT

HART & HUSTLE:
Hart & Hustle delivers weekly stories of mission-driven leaders transforming healthcare, education, and community services. Hosts Keenan Hart and Ephraim uncover practical insights from nonprofits and social innovators to scale your organization’s impact.

CONNECT WITH US:

• FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #MentalHealthAdvocacy #CommunityImpact

This is the story of a motivated COO who transitioned from social work intern to leader, driven by a passion to make a tangible difference — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from her journey.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Robin Senss shares her journey from social work intern to COO of Friends Association

1:10 – How Friends Association’s programs prevent and end family homelessness

2:16 – The impact of community engagement and open-door policy in organizational growth

3:03 – Transitioning from micro social work to macro community strategies

4:41 – The importance of storytelling and relationship-building for fundraising success

6:00 – The history and legacy of Friends Association, founded over 200 years ago

7:37 – A day in the life of Robin as COO: balancing strategy, operations, and team leadership

8:45 – Managing multiple shelters and scaling affordable housing solutions

10:18 – Upcoming fundraising events, including galas, runs, and sleep-outs

11:14 – How to set realistic fundraising goals and build relationships with donors

12:36 – The emotional challenge of organizing impactful nonprofit events

13:28 – The role of transparency and feedback from families in building trust

15:37 – Debunking myths about homelessness and understanding the role of compassion

17:35 – Addressing gender-specific homelessness and resourcefulness of women-led families

20:07 – The comprehensive array of resources, from mental health to housing partnerships

23:12 – Personal stories of families overcoming homelessness and the importance of ongoing support

24:48 – How society often misjudges homeless individuals and the importance of kindness

27:45 – How organizations can involve volunteers, donors, and community champions

29:05 – The critical need for sustained funding and advocacy support

30:36 – Practical advice for individuals and families seeking help or looking to support others

32:16 – How to get involved, donate, volunteer, or visit Friends Association to see the impact firsthand👤 ABOUT Robin Senss:

Robin Senss is COO at Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children, committed to ending family homelessness. With over a decade of leadership experience, Robin’s passion drives innovative solutions to support families and children in crisis.

🔗 Visit Friends Association: friendsasoche.org
🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: Robin Senss

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle brings you weekly stories of mission-driven leaders transforming healthcare, education, and community services. Join Keenan Hart and Efrain as they uncover practical strategies to scale your organization’s impact and lead with purpose.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

• Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #HomelessnessPrevention #CommunityImpact

Kristen Godin shares how Northeast Health Services grew from 8 outpatient clinics to 41 in just four years. In this conversation, she breaks down the leadership, operations, and mission-driven mindset behind rapid growth — and why access to care remains the guiding principle for every decision.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How a clear mission can drive strategic growth
• How to scale operations without losing quality
• Why collaboration and communication matter across multiple locations
• How innovation in services can improve access and outcomes

Kristen also shares her career journey from therapist to market president, the mentors who shaped her leadership, and how her personal connection to psychology and mental health continues to fuel her work.We also talk about:

• Centralized intake and fast response times
• Building systems that support local clinic culture
• Expanding services like TMS and ketamine for treatment-resistant depression
• Developing leaders from within the organization

If you’re a mission-driven leader looking to grow your impact, this episode offers practical insight into scaling with purpose.

Organization Website: https://www.transformationscarenetwork.com

About Hart & Hustle:
Hart & Hustle features conversations with leaders building real solutions in healthcare, education, and community services.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

• FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #HealthcareScaling #MissionDrivenGrowth

Lauren Herterich from Kids on Point shares how continuous commitment transforms underserved communities. This is the story of long-term leadership and community empowerment — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Introduction: Leadership lessons from Charleston's Kids on Point

1:00 – Building community and local engagement in nonprofit work

2:15 – Lauren’s role as executive director and her 11-year journey

3:20 – The holistic approach: academic, athletic, and nutrition support for students

4:34 – Overcoming capacity limits through strategic growth and fund-raising efforts

5:46 – How data and storytelling fuel long-term impact and donor commitment

7:05 – The importance of leadership consistency and patience in nonprofit success

8:40 – Developing future leaders: empowering high school interns and fostering leadership

10:44 – The power of mentorship and organizational culture in nonprofit growth

13:17 – Leadership evolution: from hands-on work to strategic oversight

15:06 – Raising awareness and building trust in underserved communities

16:42 – Current team size, volunteer impact, and operational leanings

17:10 – Addressing facility capacity and funding goals for expansion

18:37 – The significance of data in long-term planning and securing funding

20:18 – Creative fundraising methods: personal relationships and storytelling

22:26 – The impact of success stories: from galas to community-wide support

23:56 – The importance of manifesting goals and shared vision in leadership

25:10 – Simple yet powerful: keeping the "why" at the core of your mission

26:11 – Collaboration as a force multiplier in nonprofit impactKEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Long-term commitment (15+ years) creates deep community roots and measurable impact
• Collaboration and partnerships are critical to scaling influence and resources
• Data-driven storytelling increases donor engagement and supports strategic growth
• Leadership resilience, patience, and adaptability are essential in navigating challenges
• Building future leaders through early empowerment enhances program sustainability

ABOUT LAUREN HERTERICH:

Lauren serves as the Executive Director of Kids on Point, a Charleston-based nonprofit dedicated to providing holistic after-school and summer programs. Under her leadership for over a decade, the organization has expanded services to 36 schools and 500+ students, emphasizing access, opportunity, and community development.Guest LinkedIn: [Unavailable]

Kids on Point Website: www.kidsonpoint.org

ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle delivers weekly conversations with nonprofit leaders solving real-world challenges in healthcare, education, and community services. Hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain bring practical strategies to help mission-driven organizations scale impact and sustain growth.

CONNECT WITH US:

• FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #CommunityImpact #ScalingImpact

Unlock the transformative power of early intervention in education with James Aitken from Seeds. His journey from independent schools to leading programs that uplift underserved students shows how targeted support can change lives — and how organizations can scale impact without sacrificing quality.

This episode is a must-listen for mission-driven leaders who want to expand program reach, deepen community engagement, and make a measurable difference in education equity. James shares practical strategies on growth, data, and fundraising that you can apply to strengthen your own mission.

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 – Impact-driven leadership in education nonprofits
1:45 – James’s path from educator to nonprofit leader
4:10 – How Seeds supports underserved students
6:30 – Scaling programs without sacrificing quality
9:00 – Using data to tell compelling stories
12:20 – Engaging schools, communities, and alumni
15:00 – Fundraising events and relationship-building
18:10 – Overcoming capacity challenges
21:00 – Managing growth while maintaining integrity
24:00 – The passion behind mission-driven education
27:00 – Leadership lessons for nonprofit and higher ed professionals
30:00 – How to get involved with Seeds

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Strong impact metrics build donor confidence
• Growth should be strategic and student-centered
• Data sharpens storytelling and fundraising
• Relationships with schools and alumni amplify outreach
• Expansion works best when quality stays high

ABOUT JAMES AITKEN:
James Aitken is Vice President of Admissions and Placement at Seeds, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved students. With over 20 years of experience in independent education, James is passionate about creating pathways for first-generation college students.

Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-aitken-743b22257/

Organization Website: https://seedsaccess.org

ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:
Hart & Hustle connects you weekly with mission-driven leaders solving real-world challenges in healthcare, education, and community services. Hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain share practical strategies and inspiring stories to help you grow your organization’s impact.

CONNECT WITH US:

• FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#NonprofitLeadership #EducationEquity #MissionImpact

In this episode, we explore the impactful work of Erin Sims, a licensed professional counselor and advocate working in Louisiana's crisis support systems. She shares insights on mental health stigma, the importance of authentic connection, and how advocacy transforms lives both on the macro and micro levels.

This episode we discuss:

• The role of Via Link, a crisis call center handling 988 calls in Louisiana, and its impact on mental health crisis intervention.
• Erin's journey into advocacy, driven by personal experiences and systemic understanding.
• The significance of finding the right therapist, emphasizing connection and approach, and breaking the stigma around therapy.
• How advocacy work in schools and communities helps address systemic issues affecting youth and families.
• Personal stories illustrating the ripple effects of showing up and creating meaningful relationships.
• The importance of self-care, emotional regulation, and maintaining motivation in mental health professions.
• Practical tips on supporting mental health through listening, validation, and accessible resources like texting, chat, and 988.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Erin Sims and her work in Louisiana's crisis support system

00:45 - How Via Link operates and why crisis intervention is critical

02:15 - Erin's path to advocacy—personal experiences and macro perspective

04:00 - Breaking the stigma of therapy: finding a good fit and genuine connection

06:30 - The macro impact of advocacy in schools and communities

08:00 - Stories of meaningful relationships and their long-term impact

10:35 - Navigating emotional fatigue and staying motivated

13:00 - The importance of showing up for others and the ripple effect

15:20 - Resources: How 988, chat, and texting support mental health

17:00 - Erin’s favorite spots in New Orleans and cultural insights

19:30 - Daily mindset strategies and emotional self-awareness

22:00 - The significance of community and systemic change through advocacy

24:00 - Practical ways to support loved ones and communities

26:00 - Wrap-up: How everyone can contribute to mental health awareness

• Via Link Website

• LinkedIn

🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:

Hart & Hustle delivers weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders transforming healthcare, education, and community services. Hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain dive into real-world strategies for leaders who want to scale impact without sacrificing authenticity. Subscribe for insights that empower your leadership journey.

🔗 CONNECT WITH US:

• FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis

#MentalHealthLeadership #MissionDrivenImpact #CommunitySupport