In this episode of IMPACTability®, Steve Brooder, CEO of St. Matthew’s House, shares how he led one of Southwest Florida’s most impactful nonprofits through explosive growth, a global pandemic, and a legacy-defining transition. His story is a masterclass in nonprofit leadership, strategic growth, and faith-driven service.

From scaling food assistance from 300 to 4,000 families in a single month to launching transitional housing and workforce development programs, Steve’s tenure shows what’s possible when mission meets momentum — and when leadership is rooted in purpose.

Whether you're navigating succession planning, building community partnerships, or leading a faith-based organization, this episode offers powerful insights for nonprofit leaders who want to make a lasting impact.

Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/wnEsuymNXuI

“What if there was no St. Matthew’s House?” — [21:53]

“We accept people because of who we are, not because of who they are.” — [25:38]

“Loneliness is one of the leading causes for homelessness and addiction. People need to feel connected.” — [30:23]

00:00 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast

01:05 – From Business to Mission: Steve Brooder’s Nonprofit Journey

03:00 – Meeting the Moment: Scaling Food Assistance During Crisis

05:51 – Addiction Recovery: Faith-Based Success & Alumni Impact

09:02 – Workforce Development Through the Empowerment Hub

14:49 – Transitional Housing: Preventing Relapse & Supporting Stability

21:07 – Leading with Faith: Values-Driven Nonprofit Leadership

24:55 – Succession Planning: Preparing for a Sustainable Future

31:59 – Legacy Leadership: Reflections on Retirement & Impact

Steve Brooder has spent more than a decade leading St. Matthew’s House with a rare blend of business strategy and heart. As CEO, he guided the organization through extraordinary growth and unprecedented challenges — including a global pandemic, natural disasters, and rising community needs — all while staying grounded in faith and mission.

Under his leadership, St. Matthew’s House served nearly 890,000 households with groceries, graduated nearly 1,000 individuals from its recovery program, and created transitional housing solutions to prevent relapse and homelessness. His legacy is one of impact, integrity, and unwavering commitment to those in need.

Now entering retirement, Steve leaves behind a nonprofit built to thrive — and a leadership model rooted in purpose, compassion, and community.

Website: https://stmatthewshouse.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stmatthewshouse

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stmatthewshouseswfl/

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new listeners discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability® on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

For more nonprofit leadership insights, visit https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com

We specialize in helping nonprofits thrive. From strategic planning and grant writing to fundraising strategies and operational support, our team provides the expertise you need to maximize your nonprofit’s impact. Let’s connect: https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com/contact-us/

Nonprofit leadership isn’t easy. It takes grit, resilience, and the courage to keep showing up when challenges stack up. In this episode of IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast, Becca Bryan, Board Chair of Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge (National Wildlife Refuge), shares what it means to fight for the underdog and lead with perseverance.

From rescuing stranded dolphins and whales in the Florida Keys to championing conservation for Florida’s endangered panther, Becca’s journey shows how passion, commitment, and advocacy shape strong nonprofit leadership. Her story is a reminder that you may not change the whole world — but you can change your part of it.

Packed with lessons on Board service, community engagement, and staying the course, this conversation is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders who want to make a lasting impact.

Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/5HiaUWcHc-Y

“I’m a strong fighter for the underdog… any animal that needs a champion and someone to speak for them when they can’t speak for themselves.” — [03:23]

“Stay the course. Fight through the weeds.” — [25:25]

“You may not be changing the world, but you are changing this one part of the world — and that can mean so much more.” — [26:39]

00:01 – Welcome to IMPACTability®: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast

01:06 – From Dolphins to Panthers: Becca Bryan’s Path into Nonprofit Work

04:05 – Inside Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge: Mission & Board Snapshot

08:09 – What Keeps Leaders Going: Belief in the Mission & Community Outreach

11:05 – Visibility Wins: SEO, “Path of the Panther,” and Nationwide Awareness

17:20 – Resources That Lift Leaders: CORFA, Mentors, and Peer Networks

21:02 – Hard Lessons in Volunteer Management: Communication, Authority & Safety

25:16 – Perseverance & Commitment: Board Advice, Getting Started, and How to Connect

Becca Bryan is a writer, editor, and passionate wildlife advocate serving as Board Chair of Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge. Based in Fort Lauderdale, she blends storytelling with leadership to raise awareness for one of Florida’s most endangered species.

Her journey into conservation began in the Florida Keys, where she volunteered thousands of hours rescuing stranded dolphins and whales. That experience shaped her relentless commitment to protecting animals who can’t speak for themselves. Today, she leads Friends of the Florida Panther Refuge, guiding a diverse Board, educating the public, and supporting conservation efforts across the state.

Becca’s writing has been featured in National Geographic’s Voices Blog, USO On Patrol, and VeteransEnterprise.com. Whether through her published work or her nonprofit leadership, she continues to champion wildlife, inspire communities, and prove the power of commitment in driving nonprofit success.

Website: http://floridapanther.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FOFPR

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new people discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability® on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

For more nonprofit leadership insights, visit https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com

We specialize in helping nonprofits thrive. From strategic planning and grant writing to fundraising strategies and operational support, our team provides the expertise you need to maximize your nonprofit’s impact. Let’s connect, https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com/contact-us/

Nonprofit leadership isn’t just about managing resources — it’s about vision, resilience, and the bold action it takes to solve the toughest challenges in our communities.

Dr. Dawn Belamarich, CEO of Collaboratory, is leading a bold mission to solve Southwest Florida’s biggest social challenges by 2040. With roots as a therapist and the discipline of a business leader, Dawn shares how she blends compassion with strategy to drive impact.

From data-driven initiatives to scholarships that change lives forever, her leadership lessons resonate with nonprofit executives, Board members, and emerging leaders alike.

Why every nonprofit must be run like a business to sustain its mission

How optimism became Dawn’s leadership superpower—and why it matters

The power of scholarships and community funding to change lives

Straight talk for Board members and CEOs navigating tough times

Why knowing your “why” is essential for every nonprofit professional

If you’re ready for practical wisdom, candid insights, and real inspiration to lead with courage, this episode is for you.

Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/9IXlGHn0eQY.

“A nonprofit is a business. If there’s no money, there’s no mission.” — [18:03]

“It’s the game changer of game changers when you see a life transformed by a scholarship.” — [15:43]

“Know your why. Write it on your mirror, remind yourself every day, because many things will try to take you off course.” — [40:12]

00:00 – Welcome & Collaboratory’s Bold 2040 Mission

01:05 – From Therapist to Nonprofit CEO: An Unexpected Journey

07:15 – Finding Inspiration in People, Innovation, and Optimism

13:42 – Scholarships & Success Stories That Change Lives

18:03 – Running Nonprofits Like a Business

21:39 – Navigating Funding Challenges with Collaboration

24:21 – Straight Talk for Board Members and Nonprofit CEOs

29:47 – Failures, Lessons, and Surprising Leadership Insights

38:12 – Final Advice for Nonprofit Leaders: Know Your Why

Dr. Dawn Belamarich is President & CEO of Collaboratory, Southwest Florida’s regional community foundation with a bold mission to solve the area’s biggest social challenges by 2040.

A licensed mental health therapist with a doctorate in business and leadership, Dawn brings a unique blend of compassion and strategy to her work. Before joining Collaboratory, she held senior leadership roles at Recovery Centers of America, where she led clinical and operational excellence for a national addiction treatment provider. Her career spans both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, giving her a distinctive perspective on driving impact with business discipline.

Dawn also serves on the Board of the ARCHway Institute, a national organization providing education and resources for those impacted by addiction. Originally from New Jersey, she now calls Cape Coral, Florida home, where she enjoys the outdoors, spending time with family, and life with her husband Dave and their adopted dog, Manny.

Website: https://www.collaboratory.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnbelamarich

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/collaboratory

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collaboratory

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new people discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability® on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

For more nonprofit leadership insights, visit https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com

We specialize in helping nonprofits thrive. From strategic planning and grant writing to fundraising strategies and operational support, our team provides the expertise you need to maximize your nonprofit’s impact. Let’s connect, https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com/contact-us/

Nonprofit leadership is about balancing mission, people, and authenticity. In this inspiring episode of IMPACTability®, Frank Bartoli, founder and CEO of PA Inclusive, shares his journey from father and advocate to leader of a thriving nonprofit.

Frank opens up about the challenges of staffing shortages, the shifting culture of volunteerism, and why authenticity is the most important leadership trait. He also reveals the surprising success of Coffee Inclusive—a social enterprise employing people with disabilities that has become a model for community engagement.

From organizational design and Board responsibilities to evolving fundraising strategies, Frank offers invaluable insight for nonprofit leaders, staff, and Board members alike.

Whether you’re facing staffing struggles, engaging volunteers, or seeking new ways to stay mission-driven, this episode is packed with lessons for leading with heart and strategy.

Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/nfWMofU-nwI

“It’s harder to recruit engaged volunteers. The culture of people is really changing.” — on today’s biggest nonprofit challenge (18:36)

“Nonprofit CEOs need to be very well versed in organizational design.” — on what leaders must master to succeed (29:27)

“Authenticity is key to our success.” — on the most important leadership trait (39:51)

00:00 – Welcome & Frank’s Journey to Nonprofit Leadership

04:32 – Inclusion in Action: Understanding IDD Services

10:09 – What Inspires the Work: Lessons from Family & Community

14:09 – The Realities of Nonprofit Leadership

18:36 – Staffing Shortages & Volunteer Engagement Challenges

25:29 – Coffee Inclusive: A Nonprofit Success Story

29:27 – Essential Advice for Nonprofit CEOs & Boards

36:16 – Fundraising Trends & the Power of Authenticity

41:21 – Boundaries, Training, and Final Takeaways

Frank Bartoli is the founder and CEO of PA Inclusive and Coffee Inclusive, organizations dedicated to building inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities. With more than 30 years in nonprofit leadership—including roles with The Arc, the YMCA, and multiple Boards—Frank has consistently championed innovation and community engagement.

Inspired by his daughter Ellie, who has Down Syndrome, Frank created PA Inclusive to ensure that people with disabilities can live and work in truly inclusive communities. Under his leadership, Coffee Inclusive has become a successful social enterprise, training and employing people with disabilities while reshaping perceptions in the community.

Frank has also served on the Governor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities and continues to advocate nationally for authentic leadership and inclusion. His journey offers nonprofit leaders practical lessons on staffing, fundraising, Board engagement, and the power of authenticity in driving real change.

Asking (book) by Jerold Panas: https://www.amazon.com/Asking-Minute-Everything-Volunteers-Secure/dp/1889102323

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-bartoli

Facebook (PA Inclusive): https://www.facebook.com/PAInclusive

Facebook (Coffee Inclusive): https://www.facebook.com/CoffeeInclusive

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coffeeinclusive

Websites: https://frankbartoli.com | https://painclusive.org | https://coffeeinclusive.org

Subscribe to our channel on your favorite podcast app. For more nonprofit leadership insights, and visit https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com to learn how we help nonprofits thrive with strategic consulting and outsourcing support.

What does it take to grow a grassroots idea into a mission-driven nonprofit on the verge of ending veteran homelessness? In this episode, Vietnam veteran and retired executive Dale Mullin shares how he built Warrior Homes of Collier County from a single golf fundraiser into a thriving organization providing safe housing and support services for veterans.

Dale opens up about the realities of nonprofit leadership—from asking for his first major gift to building donor trust, navigating collaborations, and planning for succession. He shares practical insights on fundraising, donor trust, succession planning, and collaboration — the exact lessons nonprofit leaders want. His work with Warrior Homes is a living example of measurable impact: $9M raised, six housing properties, and a mission on the verge of ending veteran homelessness in Collier County.

Whether you’re a nonprofit executive, fundraiser, or Board member, this conversation will inspire and equip you with practical strategies for sustainable leadership, effective fundraising, and mission-driven growth.

Prefer video? Watch the full episode on YouTube, https://youtu.be/S7eYxPHLte8.

“We’re not selling anything but advocating. All we’re doing is selling hope.” — on the heart of nonprofit work (16:37)

“The more you communicate with donors, the more they feel part of your strategy.” — on building donor trust (19:18)

“It breaks my heart to think that men and women who served our nation would be sleeping on the streets.” — on the mission to end veteran homelessness (28:55)

00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to IMPACTability

01:10 – From Retired Executive to Nonprofit Founder

05:43 – How Warrior Homes Evolved to Meet Veteran Needs

09:40 – Building Community Support and Strategic Partnerships

12:11 – Nonprofit Leadership Lessons Learned Along the Way

17:41 – Overcoming Fundraising Challenges & Securing Major Gifts

21:26 – Collaboration Failures, Pivots, and Adaptability in Nonprofits

24:33 – Succession Planning: Knowing When to Pass the Torch

28:28 – Driving a Mission to End Veteran Homelessness

31:54 – Communicating Impact & Strengthening Donor Trust

38:17 – Advice for New Nonprofit Leaders

Dale A. Mullin is the President and Founder of Warrior Homes of Collier County, a nonprofit dedicated to ending veteran homelessness through housing, education, and mental health support. A Vietnam veteran and retired Fortune 500 executive, Dale turned his “second retirement” into a mission of service. Since founding Warrior Homes in 2010, he has raised over $9 million, acquired and operates six veteran housing properties, and mobilized broad community support to ensure veterans always have a safe place to call home.

Beyond Warrior Homes, Dale serves on local committees addressing mental health and addiction in Collier County and is active in the Healthy Minds Coalition. Known for his relentless commitment and community-driven leadership, Dale is now focused on ensuring a strong succession plan so the mission to end veteran homelessness continues for generations to come.

Website: wwcollier.org

Facebook: Warrior Homes of Collier | Naples FL

Instagram: @warriorhomes_collier

YouTube: Warrior Homes of Collier

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new people discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

Our team offers consulting and outsourcing services tailored to help nonprofits achieve both short-term results and long-term success. From fundraising and grant writing to strategic planning, Board development, and marketing—we provide expert support to help your nonprofit thrive. Learn more at soukupstrategicsolutions.com.

How can one yoga class change a life? This episode reveals how a single idea grew into a global movement — and the leadership lessons behind it.

Kayoko Mitsumatsu, Founder & Executive Director of Yoga Gives Back, shares how she turned her passion for yoga into a mission that empowers thousands of women and children each year. From navigating fundraising challenges to building an engaged Board and sustaining momentum for nearly two decades, Kayoko offers practical strategies every nonprofit leader can use.

Along the way, discover how mission clarity, a strong network, and passion for impact can turn a grassroots effort into a worldwide force for change. Whether you’re launching a new nonprofit or scaling an established one, this conversation delivers real-world insight to help you grow your mission and your movement.

“For the cost of one class, you can change a life.”

—Kayoko Mitsumatsu on Yoga’s Power to Uplift Communities

→ 03:32 – The Birth of Yoga Gives Back

“The eyes of the women and children in India give me so much energy — they remind me why I can’t stop.”

—Kayoko Mitsumatsu on Staying Motivated Through Challenges

→ 21:18 – The Mission That Fuels Her Work

“When women are empowered, the country is empowered.”

—Kayoko Mitsumatsu on the Ripple Effect of Change

→ 27:40 – Gender Equality and Social Impact

00:00 – Welcome & The Mission Driving Yoga Gives Back

01:02 – Founder’s Journey: Turning Passion into a Nonprofit Vision

03:40 – Building a Global Network to Amplify Impact

06:04 – Case Study: Gurprasad’s Rise from Poverty to Surgeon

09:38 – Going All-In: The Leap to Full-Time Nonprofit Leadership

13:46 – Leveraging Networks and Boards for Strategic Growth

17:02 – Fundraising Hurdles and How to Navigate Them

20:14 – Leading with Purpose: Advice for Founders and Board Members

24:00 – Sustaining Inspiration & Advancing Gender Equality

28:28 – Core Traits for Success & Advice for Emerging Leaders

Kayoko Mitsumatsu is the Founder & Executive Director of Yoga Gives Back (YGB), a global nonprofit dedicated to empowering women and children in India through microloans and education. Since 2007, YGB has grown to support more than 3,000 women and children annually, creating generational change in underserved communities. Inspired by Nobel Peace Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus’s microfinancing work, Kayoko launched YGB with the idea: “For the cost of one yoga class, you can change a life.”

Before moving to the U.S. in 1992, Kayoko worked as a producer/director for NHK Japan’s National Public Broadcaster and served as Cultural Attaché at the Embassy of Japan in London. She has produced numerous YGB Films documenting the real-life stories of transformation in India, and since 2016 has led YGB full-time, expanding its reach to over 30 countries.

Website: https://yogagivesback.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yoga-gives-back

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YogaGivesBack

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogagivesback

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new people discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

Our team offers consulting and outsourcing services tailored to help nonprofits achieve both short-term results and long-term success. From fundraising and grant writing to strategic planning, Board development, and marketing—we provide expert support to help your nonprofit thrive. Learn more at https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com.

Captain Daniel Andrews didn’t plan to run a nonprofit—he just wanted to protect the waters he grew up on. But what started as one fishing guide’s frustration became a movement. In this powerful episode, the co-founder and executive director of Captains for Clean Water shares how he built one of Florida’s most effective environmental advocacy nonprofits from the ground up.

Daniel reflects on early challenges, game-changing wins, and the relentless public mobilization that helped them push back against powerful interests. He also opens up about how a personal family health crisis revealed deeper connections between environmental degradation, the sugar industry, and public wellness—strengthening his resolve to fight for systemic change.

Whether you’re launching a nonprofit, navigating advocacy work, or simply passionate about impact, this episode delivers hard-won leadership insights, practical lessons, and the conviction it takes to lead with purpose.

💬 Standout Quotes

“We’ve watched our estuary, our office, everything that we love die right in front of our eyes.”

—Captain Daniel Andrews on What’s at Stake in the Fight for Clean Water

“You don’t need to exist as a nonprofit unless you’re willing to put all your chips on the table every single time.”

—Captain Daniel Andrews on Leading with Relentless Commitment

“Surprises happen all the time in advocacy, and those challenges keep us energized and inspired.”

—Captain Daniel Andrews on Turning Obstacles into Fuel

🕒 Chapters & Timestamps:

01:07 – From Fishing Guide to Nonprofit Leader

04:55 – Founding Captains for Clean Water

07:36 – Mobilizing the Public & Driving Awareness

09:44 – Advocacy Wins: Beating the Odds in Policy Battles

15:22 – Florida’s Water Crisis Explained

20:04 – Lessons in Leadership: Failure, Growth & Team Building

31:33 – Balancing Passion with Sustainability

35:41 – Health, Purpose & What It Really Takes to Lead

41:27 – Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Leaders

📍 Guest Bio:

Captain Daniel Andrews grew up in Southwest Florida and spent more time on the water than on dry land. By the age of 25, he had built a successful career as a fishing guide—but his future was threatened by toxic discharges from Lake Okeechobee that were destroying the estuaries he depended on.

Refusing to sit back and watch the waters he loved deteriorate, Daniel co-founded Captains For Clean Water in February 2016 to fight for the ecosystems and communities affected by poor water management. Just one year later, he made the heart-wrenching decision to leave his thriving charter business and step into the role of Executive Director full-time.

Daniel believed there were plenty of fishing guides in Southwest Florida—but not enough people fighting to protect the water. Today, he leads a powerful movement that combines grassroots advocacy, science, and policy to preserve Florida’s waters for future generations.

🌐 Website: captainsforcleanwater.org

📸 Instagram: @captainsforcleanwater

📘 Facebook: facebook.com/CaptainsForCleanWater

💼 LinkedIn: Captains for Clean Water on LinkedIn

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new people discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

Our team offers consulting and outsourcing services tailored to help nonprofits achieve both short-term results and long-term success. From fundraising and grant writing to strategic planning, Board development, and marketing—we provide expert support to help your nonprofit thrive. Learn more at soukupstrategicsolutions.com.

What does it really take to lead a nonprofit in today’s world?

In this episode of IMPACTability: The Nonprofit Leaders’ Podcast, host Sheryl Soukup speaks with David Rhode, Deputy Director of PennPAC, about the unique consulting model that utilizes University of Pennsylvania alumni to support nonprofits. They explore the challenges of nonprofit leadership, the importance of strategic planning, and the power of effective Board engagement.

David shares his journey into the nonprofit sector, lessons from founding his own organization, and insights from his new book Passion Isn’t Enough. From the value of mentorship and storytelling to the role of AI in communication, this episode is full of practical wisdom for nonprofit professionals at every stage of leadership.

 

 

00:00 – Introduction to IMPACTability

01:20 – Inside PennPAC: A Unique Nonprofit Consulting Model

05:26 – Why Leadership Can Feel Lonely (and How Coaching Helps)

08:08 – Strategic Planning: Focusing Your Priorities and Engaging the Board

13:00 – Setting Expectations to Improve Board Engagement

18:20 – David’s Journey: From Corporate to Nonprofit Founder

23:57 – Hard Lessons: Early Mistakes and What They Taught

27:40 – Success Stories: Partnerships That Made an Impact

30:08 – The Power of Mentorship and Relationship Building

36:49 – Navigating Today’s Challenges: Fundraising, AI, and Storytelling

 

David Rhode is a nonprofit leader, author, and educator with over 20 years of experience in the sector. He is the author of Passion Isn’t Enough: A Practical Guide for Nonprofit Leaders, winner of the Axiom Business Book Award Gold Medal.

David currently serves as Deputy Director of PennPAC, where he mobilizes University of Pennsylvania alumni as pro bono consultants to support nonprofits. He is also the founder of Dot Dot Org, a consulting firm specializing in CEO mentoring, and teaches Nonprofit Branding and Nonprofit Consulting at the University of Pennsylvania.

Previously, David founded and led Pitch In For Baseball and Softball, a national nonprofit that expanded access to youth sports in underserved communities. He lives in New York City with his family.

📘 Get the Book: Passion Isn’t Enough is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

🔗 Connect with David

Website: dotdotorg.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-rhode-1129183

Facebook: facebook.com/davidericrhode

 

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new people discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

Have a question you’d like to hear answered by a nonprofit expert? Email us at [email protected]—your question might be featured in an upcoming episode!

Our team offers consulting and outsourcing services tailored to help nonprofits achieve both short-term results and long-term success. Learn more at soukupstrategicsolutions.com.

Richard LeBer, President & CEO of the Harry Chapin Food Bank, joins us to kick off Season 3 of IMPACTability: The Nonprofit Leaders Podcast. In this heartfelt conversation, Richard shares his unexpected journey from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership, the critical role food banks play in addressing hunger, and the powerful personal stories that fuel his mission.

He also opens up about navigating growing demand with shrinking resources, why safe peer networks are essential, and how culture and mission alignment drive organizational success. From a surprise $2M bequest to leadership lessons learned the hard way, this episode is packed with wisdom for nonprofit executives and board members alike.

Whether you’re in the trenches of nonprofit leadership or guiding from the Board room, this conversation offers real-world insight, practical advice, and inspiration for leading with purpose.

“Not every nonprofit executive has a safe person to talk to because there’s so much competition.”

“After Hurricane Irma, we overestimated revenue and had to make painful layoffs; we learned to be more frugal and cautious.”

“Working in nonprofits has given me tremendous fulfillment and a different life than the corporate track.”

00:00 – Welcome & The Mission of Harry Chapin Food Bank

02:25 – From Corporate Executive to Nonprofit Leader

06:05 – Stories That Inspire and Fuel the Work

10:18 – Finding Fulfillment Beyond the Bottom Line

12:28 – Culture, Mission, and Decision-Making in Nonprofits

18:25 – Building Support Networks & Learning from Mistakes

29:15 – Leading Through Uncertainty and Funding Challenges

36:27 – Advice for Nonprofit CEOs and Board Members

41:05 – Reflections on Purpose, Fulfillment, and Community

Richard LeBer is President & CEO of the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, the largest hunger relief organization in the region. Under his leadership since 2016, the food bank has tripled fundraising, increased food distribution by 89%, and now serves approximately 250,000 people each month. Richard has led the organization through major challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, historic inflation, and multiple hurricanes such as Irma and Ian.

His leadership and Board experience includes the Harvard Club of Southwest Florida, Feeding Florida, Atlanta Community Food Bank, and Georgia Mountain Food Bank. In 2023, Richard was named Man of the Year by Gulfshore Life magazine.

Before dedicating his career to the nonprofit sector, Richard served as CEO of National Linen Service and held several executive roles in the for-profit space. He holds a degree from Harvard Business School and the University of Waterloo and enjoys reading, film, food, and running in his spare time.

Website: hcfb.org

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hcfbswfl

Twitter/X: @HCFBSWFL

Facebook: facebook.com/HarryChapinFoodBank

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Reviews help new people discover the podcast and support our mission of empowering nonprofit leaders.

Subscribe to IMPACTability on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.

Have a question you'd like to hear answered by a nonprofit expert? Email us at [email protected]—your question might be featured in an upcoming episode!

With over a decade of experience supporting nonprofits across diverse sectors, Soukup Strategic Solutions offers comprehensive consulting and outsourcing services tailored to achieve both short-term results and long-term success. Learn more at soukupstrategicsolutions.com.

In this episode, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Jillian Vukusich, CAP, Executive Director of Lost Tree Foundation, for a candid and insightful conversation about what it really takes to build strong donor-funder relationships in the nonprofit world. From fostering trust and transparency to understanding the evolving needs of communities, Jillian offers a wealth of practical advice and heartfelt reflections. Together, they explore why small and mid-sized donors are just as crucial as major gifts, how open communication can transform partnerships, and the true value of listening to and engaging all donors. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with actionable tips and thought-provoking ideas to help you create meaningful connections that maximize impact.

Building strong relationships through trust, honesty, and transparency is essential in fundraising and grant-making.

Understanding community needs and fostering open communication lead to more effective partnerships and impactful grant-making.

Small to mid-sized donors play a vital role in nonprofit stability and deserve engagement alongside major donors.

Knowing the decision-making structure in foundations helps nonprofits tailor their approach and maximize opportunities.

Maintaining relationships with all donors builds trust and can lead to significant, long-term funding opportunities.

00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability Podcast

01:32 Understanding the Donor-Funder Relationship

04:22 The Role of Fundraising and Grant Making

08:37 Building Resilient Relationships with Grantees

10:58 The Importance of Transparency in Grant Making

13:27 Navigating Decision-Making in Foundations

22:18 Aligning Community Needs with Donor Intentions

25:39 The Value of Small to Mid-Sized Donors

27:33 Final Thoughts on Fundraising and Relationships

Jillian joined Lost Tree Foundation as Executive Director in 2015. Lost Tree Foundation’s annual grants program provides nearly $4 million for capital projects each year in the areas of health, homelessness, hunger and education. Jillian previously served in leadership roles at the Community Foundation Martin St. Lucie and the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. Jillian is an alumnus of the Hull Fellows Program through Philanthropy Southeast and has served in a variety of capacities for organizations such as the Council on Foundations, Exponent Philanthropy and Florida Philanthropic Network. She holds degrees from American University and University of South Florida as well as the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® designation from The American College.

Leave a review! Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review.

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Got a question that you’d like to ask a nonprofit professional? Email your questions to [email protected] and listen to next episode to see if your question gets answered!