The Art of Good

In this episode of The Art of Good, I sit down with Brad Calhoun, a man whose life journey has spanned acting, ministry, academia, and now psychology. Brad shares his fascinating story—growing up in a family deeply rooted in service, navigating careers in film, faith, and education, and his ongoing pursuit of a PhD in psychology.

Together, we explore the science behind doing good—why acts of kindness and service positively impact both the giver and the receiver, and how behavioral psychology supports the idea that giving is essential for well-being. 

00:00 Introduction and Mission

00:18 Meet Brad Calhoun

01:49 Brad's Upbringing and Family Values

05:33 College and Career Path

10:17 The Intersection of Faith and Acting

14:20 The Science of Doing Good

19:47 Behavior and Cognitive Therapy

23:27 Encouraging the Next Generation

36:40 The Importance of Mental Health

40:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka

Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/

Follow Brad on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/P3flvIvVq6Ul9CHoba5sAztRsDh2

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

"You can’t just put someone in housing and expect them to get better. They need community, support, and purpose." Today, we have an incredible conversation lined up with my good friend Brian Ulf. Brian is the CEO of SHARE!, the Self-Help and Recovery Exchange, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing housing and self-help support for people in need. But before taking on this role, Brian was one of Los Angeles’ top commercial real estate brokers.

During our conversation, Brian shares his personal story of growing up in a high-pressure environment, struggling with addiction, and ultimately finding recovery. He talks about his passion for helping others, the importance of self-help, and how SHARE! is making a real impact by providing immediate housing and peer support. If you're looking for an insightful conversation on transformation, leadership, and making a difference, this is the episode for you.

00:00 Introduction

00:47 Meet Brian Ulf

07:25 Struggles and Turning Points

09:08 Brian's Involvement in Nonprofits

14:26 Transition to CEO of SHARE!

19:47 The Mission and Impact of SHARE!

26:23 Building Social Connections Through Shared Activities

27:03 Promoting Self-Help and Support Groups

27:55 Collaborative Housing and Its Impact

28:31 Challenges and Adaptability in Nonprofit Work

30:16 Understanding and Leading with Empathy

35:56 Funding Streams and Strategic Pivoting

38:01 Highlighting Other Nonprofits

42:28 Support During Disasters

44:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with the causes that mean the most to Brian: 

Homeboy Industries: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-4800735

West Coast Care: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/20-5340904 

Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka

Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/

Follow SHARE! On Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-6092809-1

Check out SHARE! on: https://shareselfhelp.org/

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Branding is more than a logo – It’s about awareness, perceived quality, associations, loyalty, and a clear value proposition. In this episode of The Art of Good, I have an incredible conversation with entrepreneur, philanthropist, and branding expert RJ Murray. RJ shares why branding is much more than just a logo and how nonprofits can leverage brand strategy to elevate their mission. Whether you’re leading an organization, sitting on a board, or simply passionate about making a difference, RJ’s insights will help you improve your communication strategies. 

00:00 Welcome

00:30 Guest Introduction: R.J. Murray

01:26 R.J.'s Background and Family Influence

04:53 College Years and Early Career

07:21 Acquiring and Running Murray Brand Communications

09:16 Branding Essentials for Nonprofits

19:08 Key Questions for Nonprofit Leaders

29:31 Importance of Social Media in Branding

33:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with the causes that mean the most to RJ: 

Salvation Army: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/94-1156347

American Red Cross: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/53-0196605 

St. Jude Memorial Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3607229 

Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka

Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/

Follow Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-1648180

Check out RJ on: https://murraybrand.com/

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In this episode of The Art of Good, I’m thrilled to sit down with Ronnetta Johnson, CEO of Waymakers, a transformative nonprofit based in Orange County, California. With decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Ronnetta has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families overcome challenges, find hope, and build better futures.

Our conversation spans Ronnetta’s inspiring journey—from growing up in the Rocky Mountains and discovering her passion for service to her current role leading a 368-member team at Waymakers. Ronnetta shares insights about the power of community, the importance of personalized support, and how nonprofits can embrace change and technology to amplify their impact.

00:00 Introduction and Mission Statement

00:21 Meet Ronnetta Johnson: CEO of Waymakers

02:57 Early Career and Inspiration

04:36 Joining Waymakers and Career Growth

09:18 Waymakers' Mission and Impact

16:41 Challenges and Leadership Insights

28:59 The Importance of Technology and Community Support

34:07 Conclusion and Call to Action

Connect with the causes that matter most to Ronnetta:

Fieldstone Leadership Network: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/33-0103025 

OneOC: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-2021700 

Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka

Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/

Follow Ronnetta on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3167866

Check out Ronnetta on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronnetta-johnson-82aba98/

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

There’s power in loving what you do. In this episode of The Art of Good, I have the honor of sitting down with Rich Lyons, the Chancellor of UC Berkeley. Rich is an economist, an academic, a musician, a father—and above all, a visionary. From his early days growing up in Los Altos to his groundbreaking work shaping the culture at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, Rich shares insights about leadership, resilience, and how UC Berkeley fosters resourcefulness, and a sense of agency in its students. His reflections on “confidence without attitude” and “questioning the status quo” show why Berkeley stands out as an institution.

00:00 Introduction

00:29 Meet Rich Lyons

07:17 Returning to Berkeley: A Dream Come True

09:07 The Unique Culture of Haas School of Business

12:53 Berkeley's Commitment to Free Speech

15:00 Institutional Neutrality and Reinvention in Education

23:21 The Importance of Optimism and Empathy

26:38 Balancing Leadership and Presence

33:15 Embracing Technology in Nonprofits

35:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka

Check out John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/

Check out Rich on: https://haas.berkeley.edu/faculty/lyons-richard/

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

This week on The Art of Good, I had the absolute privilege of speaking with John Shertzer, the Executive Director of the Medal of Honor Foundation. Let me tell you, this conversation is one for the books. John is a passionate nonprofit leader, a community builder, and someone deeply committed to shaping lives of honor and service.

Together, we explored the transformative power of storytelling, the humbling experiences of working alongside Medal of Honor recipients, and how nonprofits can stay true to their mission while evolving to meet the needs of future generations.

Support the Causes that matter most to John Shertzer:

The Gary Sinise Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/80-0587086 

Tunnel to Towers: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/02-0554654 

Bob Woodruff Family Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/26-1441650 

00:27 Guest Introduction: John Shertzer

01:06 John's Early Life and Influences

03:36 Leadership and Compassionate Skills

05:24 Journey to Nonprofit Career

09:13 Medal of Honor Foundation: Mission and Impact

13:40 Stories of Valor and Humility

17:02 Challenges and Vision for the Future

24:25 Encouragement for Nonprofit Leaders

27:21 Importance of Technology in Nonprofits

29:24 Recognizing Other Great Organizations

31:47 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka

Send John an Email: [email protected] 

Follow John Shertzer on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/mohf

Check out John on: https://www.cmohs.org/foundation/overview

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In this episode, I sit down with Fatima Djelmane Rodriguez, the powerhouse CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California. Fatima’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—starting as a passionate volunteer and development associate, she has risen to lead one of the largest chapters of RMHC in North America.

We discuss her early days in the nonprofit world, the pivotal moments that shaped her path, and her innovative approach to leadership and fundraising. Fatima opens up about the challenges of balancing family and a demanding career, how her spiritual and cultural influences drive her mission, and her commitment to empowering underserved communities. 

Support the causes that matter most to Fatima: 

Proyecto Pastoral: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3213958 

Homeboy Industries: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-4800735 

Dolores Huerta Foundation: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/91-2145992 

YMCA: https://www.ymca.org/ 

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern CA: https://rmhcsc.org/;  https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-3167869 

Follow John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka 

Send us an email: [email protected] 

Follow Fatima Djelmane Rodriguez on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/kK3hKUh9T3YFbmIuxdGDSMcLtvM2

Check out Fatima on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatimadr

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

Want to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In today’s episode, I had the honor of sitting down with my longtime friend, Michael Young. Michael’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary, and I’m so excited to share his inspiring story with you.

From a 10-year career in the NFL to leadership roles with the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Dodgers, to serving as Executive Director at the Foundation at Hearst Castle, Michael has always found ways to make an impact both on and off the field. In our conversation, we explored themes of patience, perseverance, and the power of giving back—qualities that resonate deeply with nonprofit leaders and anyone working to create meaningful change.

00:32 Guest Introduction: Michael Young's Accomplishments

01:35 Michael Young's Early Life and High School Journey

04:32 College Years at UCLA

06:13 Transition to Professional Sports

08:48 Challenges and Lessons Learned

11:43 Advice for Nonprofit Leaders

16:45 Philanthropy and Giving Back

22:13 Hearst Castle Foundation: Vision and Impact

29:51 Embracing Technology in Nonprofits

32:47 Documentary on Emmett Ashford

38:33 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Connect with John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka 

Send us an email: [email protected] 

Support the causes that matter most to Michael: 

Called Up Documentary: https://calledupdocumentary.com/ 

The Foundation at Hearst Castle: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/77-0068533 

Boys and Girls Club of America: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/35-2129067 

Young Life: https://www.starfishapp.com/non-profit/84-0385934 

Are you a non-profit that wants to connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In this episode of The Art of Good, I’m joined by Heidi Johnson, author of the newly released book Change for Good, which explores the transformative power of service. After a life-altering family tragedy, Heidi turned her grief into a force for positive change, founding the Spiritual Care Guild to provide much-needed support for families in crisis. Heidi shares what she’s learned about resilience, purpose, and the unique healing that comes through helping others. Through her book Change for Good, Heidi offers readers practical ways to transform their own pain into purpose by making an impact in their communities. Tune in to hear her insights on moving forward, creating positive change, and inspiring hope, even in the face of loss.

00:28 Meet Heidi Johnson: A Multifaceted Career

01:30 Heidi's Early Career in the For-Profit Sector

03:58 A Life-Altering Tragedy

06:12 Founding the Spiritual Care Guild

08:52 The Healing Power of Service

13:45 Charity Matters: Sharing Stories of Nonprofit Founders

18:40 Leading with Service: The TASC Journey

22:59 Faith and Leadership

24:21 Embracing Technology in Nonprofits

25:24 Empowering Youth Through Social Media

27:20 Introducing the New Book: Change for Good

28:35 The Transformative Power of Service

35:12 Pride in Family and Philanthropy

39:19 Supporting Various Causes

42:06 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/

Connect with Heidi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-mcniff-johnson-7758b225/

Buy Change for Good: https://buy.stripe.com/6oE7sOazuahBbpm144

Website: https://charity-matters.com/

Listen to Charity Matters: https://open.spotify.com/show/5PWzaK5N0ljyU7MPfT7iMx?si=c1d8da88b03a4f64

Support the causes that mean the most to Heidi:

Spiritual Care Guild: https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/20-0872821

Cristo Rey Network of Schools: https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/04-3730980

Miracle Messages: https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/82-4179328

Are you a non-profit that wants to Connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

In this episode of The Art of Good, I sit down with Rob Valencia, an attorney and nonprofit consultant with over 30 years of experience, to uncover the often-overlooked importance of governance in the nonprofit world. We talk about how solid governance is the backbone that keeps organizations thriving, even when they’re laser-focused on their mission. Rob shares his personal journey, from pro bono legal work to serving on nonprofit boards, and why educating board members is critical to avoiding costly mistakes. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, sitting on a board, or just passionate about the sector, you’ll walk away with actionable insights on how to strengthen your organization and make a bigger impact.

Connect with John Cervenka on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/johncervenka

Connect with Rob Valencia on Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/profile/j09cWODNmXP6T5FjXIBt13UtfAo2

Support the causes that mean the most to Rob:

Food Forward, https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/90-0678872

Foothill Family, https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/95-1690990

Curebound, https://share.starfishapp.com/non-profit/46-0552414

Are you a non-profit that wants to Connect with current supporters, amplify your marketing efforts, and attract new supporters and new donors to your cause? Check out starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/ 

What to start your philanthropic journey? Find, connect, and support the causes that mean the most to you with Starfish: https://www.starfishapp.com/