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/ 

Welcome Dave Levan, Dave shares his inspiring journey from high-profile roles at Kraft Heinz and Walmart to his current position as CEO of LifeWater International and Water for Good. We dive into the critical importance of corporate social responsibility, the transformative power of clean water and sanitation, and the fascinating merger of two impactful nonprofits. This episode highlights the essence of making a difference, the power of storytelling, and how you can contribute to impactful causes. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, Dave's story is sure to inspire and inform. 00:18 Meet Dave Levan: Businessman Turned Nonprofit Leader 01:27 Dave's Personal and Professional Journey 02:35 Transition from For-Profit to Nonprofit 05:45 The Importance of Corporate Social Responsibility 08:50 Understanding Consumer Awareness and Impact 14:45 LifeWater International and Water for Good: Mission and Impact 21:31 The Merger: Strengthening Nonprofit Efforts 26:15 Storytelling and Technology in Nonprofits 34:01 Future Goals and How to Get Involved 40:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Check out Dave Levan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidlevan 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 interview Shane Foley, a successful businessman and former USC quarterback. Shane, alongside his wife Farrell, founded the nonprofit 'Rainy Day Pennies' aimed at supporting underprivileged children in Southern California. We talk about Shane's background, his motivation behind starting the nonprofit, his family's involvement, and the importance of giving back. Shane shares insights on the significance of the charity's mission, overcoming challenges, the broader impact of their work, and some inspirational advice for those looking to make a difference in their communities. 00:37 Meet Shane Foley: From USC Quarterback to Philanthropist 01:31 Shane's Journey: High School to USC 03:09 The Seeds of Philanthropy 06:43 Professional Career and Philanthropic Involvement 09:43 The Birth of Rainy Day Pennies 16:18 Growing Up and Family Values 17:06 Starting a Nonprofit: Challenges and Strategies 20:27 Adapting to Change: The Impact of COVID-19 21:25 Community Involvement and Outreach 24:16 The Importance of Giving Back 27:20 Encouragement for Aspiring Philanthropists 29:02 Future Vision for Rainy Day Pennies 30:45 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks Follow John Cervenka: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-k-cervenka-32615413/ Check out Shane Foley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanefoley/ 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/