Karen S Wells: Make-A-Wish America
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Karen S. Wells, Chief Operating Officer at Make-A-Wish America, about leadership, nonprofit management, and the transformative power of granting wishes. Karen shares her journey from corporate leadership to the nonprofit world, offering insights on adapting to a mission-driven environment. She also discusses overcoming leadership challenges, the emotional impact of a wish, and how nonprofits can engage communities more effectively.
Alice Sima – Friends of Imiliwaha
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Alice Sima, Board President of Friends of Imiliwaha, about the life-changing impact of Friends of Imiliwaha. Alice talks about the organization’s evolution, the partnerships that help sustain their mission, the nonprofit’s all-volunteer structure, and the ongoing need for financial and volunteer support.
Jenny Kopach – Science Olympiad
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Jennifer Kopach, CEO and SVP of Marketing Communications at Science Olympiad, about the transformative power of Science Olympiad in STEM education. Jennifer discusses the organization’s growth from a basement startup, the depth of educational opportunities it offers, how alumni chapters contribute to the ongoing passion for STEM and community service, and the impact of the Science Olympiad Foundation’s grants on STEM research.
Sr. Anthony Veilleux – St. Patrick’s Residence
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Sr. Anthony Veilleux, Director of Mission Integration at St. Patrick’s Residence, about the mission-driven work in senior care. Sr. Anthony discusses her inspiring faith-based journey from childhood calling to joining St. Patrick’s Residence, the Carmelite Sisters’ core values, mission, and their integral role in caregiving, the services and care provided by St. Patrick’s Residence, and how the organization overcame its challenges.
Gabi Vargas – National Hispanic Suicide Prevention Network
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Gabi Vargas, Founder of the National Hispanic Suicide Prevention Network, about her work in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy for Hispanic communities. Gabi shares her journey and struggles of identity and mental health as an immigrant, the inception of The Poiema Studio, the founding and mission of the NHSPN, and tips for overcoming challenges in the nonprofit world.
Carolyn Wahlskog – Youth Outlook
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Carolyn Wahlskog, Director of Operations and Programming at Youth Outlook, about creating supportive environments for LGBTQ youth. Carolyn discusses the inception of Youth Outlook and its evolving impact on the LGBTQ+ community, its drop-in center’s structure and purpose, how the Rainbow Sprouts program supports younger LGBTQ+ kids and their parents, and the ongoing struggles and importance of allyship for the LGBTQ+ community.
Alison Paul – The Conservation Foundation
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Alison Paul, Vice President of Community Conservation at The Conservation Foundation, about connecting communities with the environment. Alison discusses the linkage between social issues and environmental conservation efforts, The Conservation Foundation’s mission to protect green spaces through community engagement, and the challenges of remaining inclusive, relevant, and impactful in changing demographics.
Kay McKeen – SCARCE
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kay McKeen, Founder and Executive Director of SCARCE, about environmental education and resource rescue. Kay discusses how her family values and career led her to environmental advocacy and SCARCE, the nonprofit’s unique approach to rescuing resources and promoting reuse before recycling, how its rescue program gives new life to resources and helps those in need, and how SCARCE overcomes operational challenges.
Vicky Joseph – Families Helping Families
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Vicky Joseph, Founder of Families Helping Families, about tackling homelessness through community support and mentorship. Vicky shares the origins of her lifelong dedication to social work, the start of Families Helping Families, the services the organization offers, and the program’s challenges and successes.
Amy Rasmussen – Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Amy Rasmussen, Executive Director of Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education (CAPE), about the importance of arts in educational enhancement. Amy shares her musical beginnings and how they fueled her journey in nonprofit management and arts education, CAPE’s mission to intertwine the arts with academic goals in the classroom, and the challenges and realities of sustaining arts programs in structured school systems.
Paul Feith – Navigating Nonprofit Success in a Changing World
Paul uses his passion for volunteering at mission-based organizations by sharing his expertise in technology and marketing at various nonprofit organizations, including serving on the boards for Habitat for Humanity of Illinois, Giving DuPage, The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, and Social Responsibility Chicago. He is also active with The Rotary Club of Naperville.
Kelly Knox – Special Spaces Illinois
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kelly Knox, Illinois Director of Special Spaces, about transforming spaces for children with cancer. Kelly discusses what Special Spaces does and its impact on families, the one-day transformation journey of a bedroom makeover, the logistics of coordinating thousands of volunteer hours to execute multiple projects simultaneously, and the cost and the financial backbone behind each makeover.
Taylor Endicott – Giving DuPage
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Taylor Endicott, Community Program Manager at Giving DuPage, about connecting volunteers with meaningful opportunities and supporting nonprofits. Taylor shares her inspiring journey into nonprofit leadership, the biggest challenges facing Giving DuPage today, how it connects volunteers with nonprofits, and how Giving DuPage Days supports local nonprofits’ fundraising.
Chad Pedigo – DuPage Pads
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Chad Pedigo, Vice President of Development at DuPage Pads, about innovative homelessness solutions. Chad introduces DuPage Pads’ mission and innovative approach to tackling homelessness, the transformation from temporary shelters to permanency, DuPage Pads’ funding sources and their strategic allocation, and the partnerships it fosters to address complex issues associated with homelessness.
Mary Kerbs – Naperville Elderly Homes
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Mary Kerbs, Executive Director at Naperville Elderly Homes, about creating purposeful and affordable senior living communities. Mary discusses Naperville Elderly Homes’ history and its relation to Martin Avenue Apartments, the vital importance of affordable senior living in Naperville, how Martin Avenue goes beyond housing to offer dignity and a sense of home for the seniors, and the challenges of maintaining a thriving senior community.
Jenifer Fabian – People’s Resource Center
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Jenifer Fabian, CEO of People’s Resource Center, about community impact and evolution. Jenifer discusses PRC’s origin story and its powerful mission, the nonprofit’s transition from challenge to agility during the pandemic, its expansion plans, and the importance of community partnerships to its service delivery.
Molly Beck Dean – WeGo Together for Kids
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Molly Beck Dean, Director of WeGo Together for Kids, about building collaborative networks for community impact. Molly talks about WeGo Together for Kids and its 20-year impact, the challenges of sustaining a nonprofit organization, WeGo Together for Kids’ engagement and outreach strategies, and advice for other nonprofit directors.
Kendra Connor – Treasure Chest Foundation
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kendra Connor, Executive Director of the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation, about leading a nonprofit with passion and purpose. Kendra discusses how the Treasure Chest Foundation helps children undergoing cancer treatment, its funding model, tips on leadership and nurturing a team with a mission-focused mindset, and her vision for expanding the foundation sustainably.
Kimberly White – Career & Networking Center
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kimberly White, Executive Director of the Career & Networking Center (CNC), about transforming lives through community engagement and career empowerment. Kimberly shares her journey with CNC, her creative approach to helping soldiers with their career transitions, how the 2007 economic downturn expanded CNC’s networking groups to support the community, and her journey as the first black president of the Rotary Club focusing on DEI.
Nina Menis – KidsMatter
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Nina Menis, CEO and Executive Director of KidsMatter, about empowering youth and nurturing their mental well-being. Nina shares the journey that led her to KidsMatter, how KidsMatter pivoted to address the emerging challenges in youth mental health, the shift towards proactive conversations about mental health among young people, and KidsMatter’s funding model and program development.
Marc Kalan – The Essence of Marketing
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Marc Kalan, Associate Professor of Professional Practice at Rutgers Business School, about the unalterable core of marketing principles. Marc shares the dynamic, diverse environment of Rutgers Business School and his educational contributions, the constant evolution of marketing, the critical role of solving customer needs in successful marketing, and the importance of adapting to the dynamic marketing environment.
Luke Greeley – Social Mobility in the Rutgers Business School
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Luke Greeley, Associate Dean for the Rutgers Business School Undergraduate Program, about transforming the educational experience and social mobility. Luke discusses the role of Rutgers Business School in driving its students’ success, how the institution emphasizes social mobility, achieving an 85-90% job placement rate for its postgraduates, and strategies to incorporate AI effectively into the learning process while guarding against dependency.
Kara Murphy – DuPage Health Coalition
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kara Murphy, President of DuPage Health Coalition, about leading a purpose-driven healthcare organization. Kara talks about the countywide impact of Access DuPage and DuPage Health Coalition services, the collaborative models in the nonprofit sphere, the funding models that support DuPage Health Coalition, and the strategy for community outreach to spread awareness about healthcare resources.
Kandice Henning – Alive Center
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Kandice Henning, Founder and Executive Director of the Alive Center in Naperville, about teens leading change and her blueprint for youth empowerment. Kandice delves into the inception of the Alive Center, shares her career trajectory that led to an unexpected calling, and her dedication to teen empowerment — emphasizing confidence building, leadership skills, and the freedom to fail — underpinning the center’s success in nurturing the next generation of compassionate leaders.
Rebecca Malotke-Meslin: Developing and Retaining Women Leaders
In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, Paul Feith interviews Rebecca Malotke-Meslin, Owner and Coach at Pleasantly Aggressive, about empowering women to lead with confidence, authenticity, and conviction. Rebecca explores the common challenges women leaders encounter, the disparity between women in staff versus head roles, and strategies for gaining clarity in leadership to unleash potential beyond conventional titles.
Bob Kopach – The Eco-Friendly Mobile Farm Stand Project
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Bob Kopach, Founder and Executive Director of the Eco-friendly Mobile Farmstand Project, about how electric mobile farm stands are revolutionizing the urban farming approach to food insecurity. Bob articulates the issue of food deserts in low-income neighborhoods, the benefits of electric mobile farm stands and fresh produce delivery, and the significance of community involvement in the project’s success.
Nicki Anderson – Love-Led Leadership
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith hosts Nicki Anderson to discuss the power of leading with love. Nicki explains how she navigated leadership challenges early in her career, how to build a company around love, and the difference between service and love-led leadership.
Dylan Ladd – Illinois Conservatory for the Arts
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Dylan Ladd, the Co-founder and Executive Director of the Illinois Conservatory for the Arts, to discuss his journey as an educator and leader in the arts community. Dylan shares his experiences as a mission-driven leader, the roadblocks faced by a new nonprofit in fundraising, and insights into his creative process for maintaining effective operations despite the challenges of leading a startup.
Janell Robinson – Hope’s Front Door
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Janell Robinson, the Executive Director of Hope’s Front Door, to talk about how everyone can contribute to society through nonprofit organizations. She explains how small actions can make significant differences, Hope’s Front Door’s service offerings and programs, and how generational philanthropy has influenced her career.
Joel Friend – A Philanthropic Guide to the Gems of Aurora, IL (Paramount)
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith chats with Joel Friend, the Director of Corporate Giving and Sponsorships at Paramount Theatre, about forming partnerships that serve both business objectives and nonprofit goals. He provides insights into corporate giving, the comprehensive offerings of the Paramount enterprise, and his journey in performing arts management.
Andrea Ingram – Cultural Integration for Children and Families (DuPage Children’s Museum)
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith hosts Andrea Ingram, the President and CEO of DuPage Children’s Museum, to discuss her role in fostering cultural engagement in her community. Andrea talks about the museum’s programs, how she overcame challenges during her professional development, and why she joined the organization.
Chase Harmer – Disrupting the Charitable Giving Space
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Chase Harmer, the Founder of Wishes Inc, about his mission to reinvent charitable giving. Chase describes the Wishes Inc platform, its revenue model, and his inspiration to build it.
Shelley Taylor – Reinventing a Nonprofit Organization
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith sits down with the Executive Director of the Catalyst for Educational Change, Shelley Taylor, to discuss how she rebuilt a nonprofit organization. Shelley describes the CEC’s mission, her educational journey inside and out of the nonprofit space, and the organizations she trusts.
Dorri McWhorter – Social Enterprise With the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago
In this episode of the Mission Matters podcast, Paul Feith hosts Dorri McWhorter, the President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, to talk about social enterprise with the Chicago YMCA. Dorri discusses what a social venture entails, the different services offered by the YMCA, and how the YMCA is embracing the digital landscape.
Clara Lucia Jaramillo-Carrier – Living With Purpose
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Clara Lucia Jaramillo-Carrier, a renowned speaker and Brand Strategist at Paul Gregory Media, for a conversation about embracing purposeful living and leadership. Clara shares insights on overcoming fear, understanding personal yearnings, and making intentional choices aligned with one’s deepest desires. Her leadership style emphasizes humility, continual learning, and personal development as keys to influence.
Tara Beth – Good Shepherd Church – A New Leader
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast with Paul Feith, he hosts Tara Beth Leach, Senior Pastor at Good Shepherd Church, for a candid discussion about women in ministry. Tara reflects on her calling to serve as a pastor, how she pursued her passion without a roadmap, her multifaceted roles in ministry, and her background in writing.
Marcela Sweeney – Educare West DuPage: Early Learning Matters
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith engages in an enlightening conversation with Marcela Sweeney, the Executive Director of Educare West DuPage, exploring the significance of early learning. Marcela shares her journey in education, discussing her motivations and the allure of Educare compared to traditional daycare centers. Through her perspective, listeners gain valuable insights into the distinctive features and benefits of Educare’s approach to early childhood education.
Megan Pennington – CASA of River Valley
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast with Paul Feith, Megan Pennington, Advocate Supervisor at CASA of River Valley, shares the role of a CASA advocate. Megan explains CASA’s mission in supporting foster children, explores the reasons behind children entering foster care, and provides insights on how listeners can become CASA volunteers.
Amy Van Polen – Bridge Communities
In this recent episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, host Paul Feith sits down with Amy Van Polen, CEO of Bridge Communities. Amy delves into the organization’s mission to end homelessness, highlighting Bridge Communities’ programs and efforts to empower families facing homelessness. Additionally, Amy shares her insights on effective leadership strategies and techniques for successful fund development.
Nancy Wiersum – Loaves & Fishes Community Services
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith hosts Nancy Wiersum, Executive Vice President of Advancement for Loaves & Fishes Community Services, to explore the profound impact of food pantries on communities. Nancy delves into the mission of Loaves & Fishes, highlighting its services and CARES programs. She also shares valuable insights gained from navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, highlighting the organization’s resilience and adaptability.
Mike Briggs – Little Friends
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith sits down with Mike Briggs, President and CEO of Little Friends, delving into the organization’s profound impact on individuals with intellectual disabilities. Mike navigates through his career trajectory and transition into the nonprofit sector, shedding light on Little Friends’ mission, its extensive range of services, and the pivotal role of the family care team and additional support groups.
Jung Family Painting: A Community Partner
On today’s episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith engages in a dynamic conversation with Bob and Judy Jung, the Founders and Co-owners of Jung Family Painting. Beyond the strokes of paint, the Jungs unravel the art of community engagement, discussing their philanthropic endeavors, leadership triumphs, and the transformative role of a business coach in the entrepreneurial journey.
Ashley Abraham – Ride Assist Naperville
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Ashley Abraham, the Executive Director of Ride Assist Naperville, to delve into the program’s mission, services, target audience, and future goals.
Geri Kerger – NAMI DuPage – A Leader in Mental Health Support
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Geri Kerger, Executive Director of NAMI DuPage, for an in-depth conversation about the organization. Geri provides valuable insights into the diverse range of programs NAMI offers and sheds light on DuPage County’s impactful role as an advocate and support system for mental health initiatives.
Michael Sitrick – The DuPage Foundation: DuPage County’s Philanthropic Leader
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Michael Sitrick, President and CEO of the DuPage Foundation, for an in-depth conversation about the foundation. In addition to sharing the foundation’s mission and its growth over the years, Michael expounds on the DuPage Community Transformation Project and the challenges of implementing year-end giving initiatives.
Mark Buschbacher – Serenity House Programs and Leadership
On today’s episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith converses with Mark Buschbacher, the President and CEO of Serenity House Counseling Services. Mark delves into Serenity’s dedication to aiding long-term substance abusers to achieve and maintain sobriety through a holistic approach. He also shares what attracted him to joining Serenity House’s team, the facility’s services and programs, and how they differentiate themselves from other recovery programs.
Joan Wincentsen – The American Hearing Research Foundation
Join Paul Feith on today’s episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, where Joan Wincentsen, Executive Director of the American Hearing Research Foundation, joins the show. Joan shares her inspiration for joining AHRF, the organization’s mission, and why research and funding are imperative to curing and treating hearing loss.
Rick Lochner – Thinking Like a 21st-Century Non-Profit Leader
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith once again welcomes Rick Lochner, President and Head Coach at RPC Leadership Associates, to discuss the five pillars of thinking like a 21st-century non-profit leader. Rick explains the difference between thinking versus doing, the social enterprise model, and why storytelling is essential to a nonprofit’s mission.
Suzanne Kinsey – Healthy Aging and Ageism
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Suzanne Kinsey, Executive Director of Fox Valley Community Services, to talk about ageism and how it affects individuals’ abilities to age healthily. Suzanne shares what leadership represents, contributing factors to aging positively and negatively, and the resources Fox Valley Community Services provides.
Rich Tatara – Leadership in Rotary
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Rich Tatara, President of the Rotary Club of Naperville, to discuss the organization and its mission. Rich also shares the Rotary Club’s contributions to society, the challenges of leading Rotary, and how people can benefit as members of the organization.
Adam Russo – Processes in Leadership
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith welcomes Adam Russo, Founder of Reliable Coaching and Strategy, to discuss a purposeful people-process strategy. Adam shares his career trajectory and what inspired him to start his coaching consultancy. He also talks about work ethic, employee motivation, and compensation in the wake of inflation, and how workplace culture and operations impact business growth.
Rick Lochner – Thinking Differently About Non-Profit Leadership
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast with Paul Feith, Rick Lochner, President and Head Coach at RPC Leadership Associates, discusses alternative methods to lead nonprofit organizations. Rick shares his leadership background and how he became involved in nonprofits, the differences between social enterprises and traditional charities, and why nonprofits should operate like conventional businesses.
Paul Feith – Pillar-Based Marketing
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Chad Franzen of Rise25 once again flips the script to interview host Paul Feith about pillar-based marketing. Paul discusses the costs of using pillar-based marketing, how AI enhances marketing research, and how companies can benefit from pillar-based marketing.
Sarah Grycko-Oprzedek – The Three Challenges Leaders Face Today
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast with Paul Feith, Sarah Grycko-Oprzedek, President and CEO of United Way of Will County, discusses the challenges leaders face every day. Sarah talks about clawback donations, employment challenges within the nonprofit sector, and the complexities of achieving a work-life balance.
Tim Frick – Digital Sustainability: Crafting a Digital Climate Plan
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast with Paul Feith, Tim Frick, Founder and President of Mightybytes, discusses digital sustainability — the process of incorporating environmental, economic, and social stewardship practices into digital products and services. Tim explains how digital waste impacts the environment, how the internet can be more sustainable, and provides nonprofits with ideas on supporting digital sustainability.
Marissa Schmidt McCoy – The Top Five Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring an Agency
On today’s Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith sits with Paul Gregory Media’s Marketing Director, Marissa Schmidt, to ponder potential clients’ common questions. Together, they address effective methods to promote brand awareness, leading donation platforms, the costs of building a website, and how marketing agencies charge for their services.
Ashley Kratschmer – Programmatic Advertising: A New Frontier Into AI
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Ashley Kratschmer, Digital Marketing Coordinator at Paul Gregory Media (PGM), about programmatic advertising. Ashley explains when and how to use programmatic ads, the difference between geofencing and retargeting, and when to optimize campaigns.
Shefali Trivedi – Lessons From a Leader
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Shefali Trivedi, Founder, President, and CEO of A Better We, about the lessons she’s learned as a servant leader and the importance of having trust in your business model. Shefali shares her career trajectory, the challenges she overcame in her previous roles, and A Better We’s mission.
Katrina Syrris Rathjen – Insights From a Social Media Expert
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, Paul Feith interviews Katrina Syrris, Social Media Manager at Paul Gregory Media (PGM), about how businesses can benefit from social media. Katrina shares strategies for successful campaigns, preferred management tools, and discusses the differences between using social media as a marketing tool and as a sales tool.
Paul Feith – Paul Gregory Media and Social Media
In this episode of the Mission Matters Podcast, host Paul Feith welcomes Chad Franzen of Rise25. Chad flips the script and interviews Paul about the power of social media in digital marketing. Paul discusses Paul Gregory Media’s origin, PGM’s competitive edge, the agency’s preference to work with mission-based organizations, and what inspired him to start a podcast.
Upcoming Guest:
Rick Lochner
RPC Leadership
Shefali Trivedi
A Better We
