The Discovery Pod

The Discovery Pod features conversations with leaders in non-profit/social sector. Join former CEO Douglas Nelson as he talks with CEOs, Board Chairs, Founders and other senior leaders about how they got started in the sector, how they work with their boards, and what remains to be done. As Managing Director of The Discovery Group, a philanthropy and governance consulting firm based in Vancouver, BC., Doug understands the complexity of leading organizations and institutions and the challenges of aligning governance and philanthropic performance. Doug has been called a ‘fundraising phenom’ by the Vancouver Sun and ‘a true innovator for a sector that can do so much more.’ Learn from the brightest and the best in the industry so you can accomplish what is most important by tuning in to The Discovery Pod today.

The Discovery Pod is a business podcast hosted by Douglas Nelson, with 338 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Douglas Nelson hosts The Discovery Pod, a business show with 338 episodes published.

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  Episode #5

  Finding The Right Pace As A New CEO With Brian Torrance, President & CEO Of ParticipACTION

  Sep 30, 202631 minS11

  Stepping into a major leadership role is a thrilling milestone, but finding the right pace can be one of the greatest challenges for any incoming executive. Striking the balance between executing bold, decisive actions and taking the time to listen, learn, and absorb organizational history is crucial for long-term sustainability. In this episode, host Douglas Nelson sits down with Brian Torrance , the President and CEO of ParticipACTION , to discuss the delicate art of executive transition. Brian shares his personal reflections on taking the helm of an iconic Canadian national charity, managing board dynamics, and the critical importance of a “cadence check” to ensure the entire team is aligned. He also outlines how ParticipACTION is connecting with a new generation of Canadians through “new nostalgia” and family-centered physical activity initiatives.

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  Episode #4

  AI, Creativity, And The Future Of Art Education: Dr. Trish Kelly, President + Vice-Chancellor, Emily Carr University Of Art And Design

  Sep 23, 202634 minS11

  As post-secondary institutions navigate a rapidly changing landscape, leaders are called to think outside the box to secure a sustainable future. Leading Canada’s number-one art and design institution, Emily Carr University of Art and Design , requires a unique blend of creativity and strategic foresight. In this episode, host Douglas Nelson sits down with Dr. Trish Kelly , President and Vice Chancellor of Emily Carr University, to explore the intersection of practice-based education and organizational leadership. They discuss how the rise of artificial intelligence is shaping art and design education, the value of community-centered connection, and how institutions can preserve humanity in the digital age. Dr. Trish Kelly also shares invaluable advice for new presidents, highlighting why patience and trust are essential to driving meaningful change.

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  Episode #3

  Donor Advised Funds In Canada With Jo-Anne Ryan, VP, Philanthropic Advisory Services, TD Wealth

  Sep 16, 202633 minS11

  Philanthropy is undergoing a major shift across Canada as donor preferences evolve and strategic giving structures become essential. Navigating options like donor advised funds allows individuals, families, and organizations to maximize their long-term impact on the causes they care about most. In this episode, Jo-Anne Ryan , Vice President, Philanthropic Advisory Services at TD Wealth and Executive Director of the Private Giving Foundation, shares invaluable insights into the rapidly expanding role of DAFs in the Canadian charitable sector. She breaks down actionable strategies for board members and social profit leaders to cultivate DAF-friendly organizations, engage financial advisors effectively, and adapt to emerging trends driven by self-made donors and women in philanthropy.

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  Episode #2

  Building For The Future With Andrea Seale, CEO Of The Canadian Cancer Society

  Sep 9, 202634 minS11

  Navigating a complex healthcare landscape requires bold leadership, strategic clarity, and a deep commitment to collective action. As CEO of the Canadian Cancer Society , Andrea Seale has guided the organization through a transformative era to maximize its national reach and impact. In this conversation, Andrea shares how her team crafted an ambitious strategic plan aimed at increasing cancer survival, expanding prevention efforts, and improving the quality of life for millions facing a diagnosis. She offers valuable insights into balancing long-term research investments with immediate advocacy wins and building diversified, sustainable funding models. Tune in to discover how visionary social profit leadership can unite partners coast to coast to tackle one of Canada’s greatest health challenges.

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  Episode #1

  Donor Research In The Age Of AI With Elanna Giang, Director Of Research & Analytics, The Discovery Group

  Sep 2, 202629 minS11

  Nonprofit leaders often struggle to identify and engage the right supporters, leaving valuable philanthropic opportunities untapped. Building sustainable donor growth requires a grounded approach to prospect research that goes far deeper than net worth or basic online search results. In this episode, Elanna Giang , Director of Research and Analytics at The Discovery Group , shares actionable insights on how fundraising teams can transform raw data into meaningful relationships. She explores the practical applications and hidden dangers of AI in donor identification, why values alignment outweighs financial capacity, and how involving researchers in early strategy sessions empowers organizations to connect with confidence.

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