Hart & Hustle Podcast

Hosted by Keenan Hart

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371

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Jun 2026

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Hart & Hustle delivers real conversations with nonprofit and healthcare leaders who are scaling mission-driven impact through strategic innovation. Hosted by Efrain Lozada, each 45-minute episode explores leadership, operations, technology adoption, and practical strategies for mission-based organizations. Learn from executives who've transformed accessibility, efficiency, and community engagement while staying true to their values. For nonprofit directors, operations leaders, and healthcare innovators who hustle with heart. New episodes weekly.

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June 15, 2026Episode 36536 min

The Hidden Power of Relationships in Scaling a Nonprofit Mission

Many students enter college with enthusiasm but leave without retaining their faith or sense of community. Trace Hamiter from The Oaks Collaborative shares how his Christ-centered ministry is transforming the way college students transition into faith and community. This episode explores scaling a faith-based mentorship network that connects students, prevents faith fallaways, and nurtures lifelong relationships.In this conversation, you'll learn:Creating a Christ-centered transition program across 25+ campusesStrategies for scaling a nonprofit while safeguarding mission impactImportance of relationship-driven fundraising aligned with biblical principlesRecruiting and empowering student leaders to grow your missionInsights into scaling wisely without compromising your core missionPerfect for mission-driven leaders who want to expand reach and deepen impact in higher education communities.TIMESTAMPS:0:00 – Introducing college ministry impact1:07 – The Oaks Collaborative's nationwide reach2:27 – Student transition from high school to college3:56 – Christ-centered retreat supports and prevents faith fallaway4:36 – Sustainable faith programs and leadership development5:37 – Student involvement: awareness to participation6:02 – Nonprofit structure: faith-based nonprofit7:03 – Lessons from nonprofit vs. for-profit worlds8:57 – Role of relationships in nonprofit success10:30 – Fundraising as a core mission impact11:21 – Vision for expanding to every major university12:17 – Balancing growth with wisdom13:20 – Growth challenges and mission integrity14:20 – Building a strong leadership team15:40 – Importance of humility in leadership17:00 – Managing weaknesses through partnerships20:23 – Biblical leadership lessons: Moses’ framework22:03 – Redefining the role of a biblical pastor24:37 – Fundraising as ministry, not just necessity25:21 – Fund allocation: contributions, scholarships, overhead28:24 – Storytelling to inspire giving30:45 – Impact stories from changed lives33:04 – Connecting faith seeds with growth environment34:12 – Supporting or starting similar programsABOUT TRACE HAMITER:Trace is the founder of The Oaks Collaborative, a nonprofit ministry supporting college students in their faith journey. With years of experience, Trace has scaled his organization to serve multiple campuses nationwide.Organization Website: https://oakscollaborative.comABOUT HART & HUSTLE:Hart & Hustle brings weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders transforming healthcare, education, and community service.CONNECT WITH US:FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.aiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis#NonprofitLeadership #FaithInEducation #ScalingWithWisdom

June 8, 2026Episode 36029 min

Inside a Local Nonprofit’s Secret: How They Serve Hundreds of Families Without Limits | Sarah Lundin

Sarah Lundin from Freeport Community Services shares how a simple, human connection can create profound community impact.This is the story of how genuine engagement shifts organizational purpose — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from it.In this episode, you'll learn:✅ How empathetic conversations build trust and strengthen programs for community impact✅ The importance of storytelling to reinforce purpose and inspire action among stakeholders✅ Practical ways to foster authentic connections in community outreach and organizational cultureThis episode is perfect for mission-driven leaders who want to deepen their impact by cultivating real, human-centered relationships.⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 – The power of storytelling in community service leadership1:21 – The impact of a homeless man's story on higher education students2:48 – Building community programs that break barriers and access basic needs5:05 – The significance of visibility and human connection in community engagement7:45 – Pivoting during crises: collaborative strategies for nonprofit resilience8:52 – Serving hundreds of households monthly: a model for mission-driven outreach10:05 – The role of authentic storytelling in overcoming imposter syndrome and inspiring staff11:38 – The roots of Sarah’s heart for service—family influences and early volunteer experiences15:27 – Combining passions: from stained glass to animal rescue and community programs16:41 – How personal love for animals shapes leadership and community outreach initiatives18:30 – Overcoming challenges: from science classes to sociology—finding your true calling20:41 – The deeper meaning of caring for pets and how loss teaches resilience and compassion21:06 – Reflecting on the evolution of leadership through personal stories and community impact25:26 – Connecting passions with organizational missions through innovative engagement approaches27:06 – How to get involved: volunteering, donations, and social media outreach at FCS👤About the Guest:Sarah Lundin is the Executive Director at Freeport Community Services, dedicated to serving her local community for over a decade. Her leadership is rooted in authentic connection, storytelling, and a mission to ensure everyone feels seen and heard.Freeport Community Service: https://fcsmaine.org/Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-lundin-33596396/About Hart and Hustle:Hart & Hustle hosts weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real-world challenges in healthcare, education, and community services. These practical insights help leaders amplify their impact and build capacity in meaningful ways.Connect with Us:* FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.ai* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis#MissionLeadership #CommunityImpact #AuthenticConnections

June 11, 2026Episode 36442 min

How Missteps Can Turn Into Motivation: The Power of Belief and Resilience

Kevin P. Thomas from the University of Central Arkansas shares how overcoming early missteps fueled his success in higher education. Discover how perceived failures can become motivation and what leaders can learn from it.Key Insights:Reframing Missteps: Turn setbacks into success.Power of Affirmation: Words influence performance.Culture of Care: Build trust and engagement.Underrated Programs: Explore essential pathways.Support for Students: Engage first-generation students.Who Should Listen:Mission-driven leaders, education administrators, and student success champions.Timestamps:0:00 – Embracing authenticity in leadership1:24 – Kevin’s journey from a 16 ACT score to a doctorate2:39 – Turning doubts into motivation3:50 – Affirmation boosts success4:43 – Building a culture of care6:01 – Navigating college for first-generation students7:27 – Impact of believing in potential9:00 – Lessons from fast food leadership10:38 – Guiding children through education decisions12:31 – Influence of mentors and teachers13:49 – Importance of encouragement15:19 – Personalized care for teams16:42 – Leading with empathy17:41 – Preparing children for college19:00 – Demystifying college applications20:28 – Storytelling in education marketing23:04 – Shifting campus culture24:53 – Value of college beyond degrees27:23 – Underrated degrees for success29:11 – Encouraging exploration in college31:50 – Education’s impact on lives33:21 – Kevin’s leadership collection36:35 – Encouragement for educators39:31 – Connect with Kevin on LinkedInAbout Kevin P. Thomas:Associate VP of Enrollment at the University of Central Arkansas, known for transformational leadership.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinpthomasUniversity of Central Arkansas: https://uca.eduAbout Hart & Hustle:Weekly conversations with leaders tackling real-world problems in education and community services.Connect with Us:FRANSIŞ™ Website: https://fransis.aiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis#HigherEducation #MissionDrivenLeadership #StudentSuccess

June 10, 2026Episode 36337 min

Why Higher Ed Needs to Reframe Its Marketing — Focus on Connection, Not Just Conversion

Join Matthew from the University of South Alabama as he shares insights from his journey through five institutions, revealing transformative strategies for leaders in higher education. Discover how to deepen student belonging and engagement, balance family involvement, and leverage data for success.In this episode, you'll learn:- ✅ How belonging can revolutionize student retention- ✅ The role of family in student success- ✅ Using data and AI to meet students' needs- ✅ Sustaining growth with a clear end-in-mind philosophy- ✅ Creating lifelong alumni through campus cultureIdeal for visionaries in higher education, this episode offers strategies to foster relationships, improve program reach, and adapt to change.**⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:**- 0:00 – Career beginnings in higher education- 1:00 – Journey across states and institutions- 1:53 – Balancing passions with growth- 2:44 – Relocation decisions and cultural shifts- 3:33 – Family involvement in college choice- 4:26 – Parenting and leadership lessons- 5:51 – Kids' work ethic and leadership- 6:36 – Secrets to long-lasting relationships- 7:50 – Building community in higher ed- 8:54 – Impact of COVID and data-driven decisions- 10:12 – Authentic campus visits- 11:20 – Evolving role of parents in decisions- 12:25 – Focusing on purpose and belonging- 13:42 – Leadership and enrollment advice- 14:50 – Supporting diverse backgrounds- 16:02 – Involving families in student journeys- 17:33 – Overcoming barriers with empathy- 18:36 – AI and data in recruitment- 19:58 – Prioritizing relationships over numbers- 21:00 – Parent’s perspective on college search- 23:09 – Fostering belonging through culture- 25:54 – Supporting financial diversity- 28:01 – Clarity in application process- 30:42 – Marketing and authentic conversations- 32:12 – From data to belonging- 34:41 – Staying mission-focused**👤 ABOUT MATTHEW:**Matthew Cox, with over three decades in enrollment and student affairs, exemplifies authentic leadership at the University of South Alabama.🔗 Connect with Matthew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathew-cox-37048b97/🔗 University of South Alabama: [https://southalabama.edu](https://southalabama.edu)**🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE:**Hart & Hustle features conversations with leaders breaking barriers in healthcare, education, and community service. Hosted by Keenan Hart and Efrain, each episode offers strategies to elevate leadership and impact.🔗 Connect with us:- Website: https://fransis.ai- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis#HigherEdLeadership #StudentBelonging #MissionDrivenLeadership

June 8, 2026Episode 36138 min

The Unexpected Lessons from a Pharmacy Tech Turned Healthcare CEO

Andrew Lovewell from Columbia Orthopedic Group shares how strategic growth and authentic leadership helped navigate healthcare’s pandemic challenges.This is the story of agile adaptation — and what mission-driven leaders can learn from Andrew’s approach to healthcare innovation and resilience.⚠️ In this episode, you'll learn:✅ How to leverage private practice agility for rapid expansion during times of crisis✅ The importance of humility and honest mentorship in executive leadership✅ Practical ways to integrate AI and digital content into patient education and outreachThis episode is for visionary executives and mission-driven leaders committed to scalable, patient-centric growth in healthcare or community services.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 – Strategic leadership during COVID: How Columbia Orthopedic Group expanded amid crisis2:00 – Pivoting operational models: From hospital-based to outpatient care4:00 – Building a comprehensive musculoskeletal platform for holistic patient care6:30 – Embracing AI: Practical applications and limitations in healthcare8:00 – Lessons from failure: The value of humility and honest mentorship10:00 – Growth during uncertainty: Navigating industry shifts in outpatient and outpatient setting12:00 – Creating patient-centric content: The power of educational videos in health promotion14:00 – The future of healthcare: Digital transformation and operational agility16:00 – Leadership in the next generation: Grit, resilience, and innovation👤 ABOUT ANDREW LOVEWELL:Andrew Lovewell is CEO of Columbia Orthopedic Group, a regional leader in high-value, patient-centered musculoskeletal care. With over a decade in healthcare leadership, Andrew is recognized for his innovative approach to growth and operational excellence.🔗 Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlovewell/🔗 Organization Website: https://columbiaortho.com🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE: Hart & Hustle delivers weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems across healthcare, education, and community service. Hosts Keenan Hart and Efrain explore practical strategies with nonprofit executives, healthcare innovators, and community builders committed to scaling impact.Subscribe now for insights into nonprofit leadership, operational growth, and mission-driven success.🔗 CONNECT WITH US:FRANSiS™ Website: https://fransis.aiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis#HealthcareLeadership #MissionDrivenGrowth #HealthcareInnovation

June 9, 2026Episode 36230 min

The Power of Belonging: How One Adult's Simple Gesture Transforms a Child's Life

Transforming youth programs through authentic leadership — Craig Baker, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, shares how intentional relationships and innovative fundraising are expanding program reach and impact. This is the story of turning a personal passion into a community-wide movement.In this conversation, you'll learn: ✅ How a childhood experience at the Boys & Girls Club inspired Craig to lead with purpose ✅ Strategies for creating a welcoming environment where every kid feels seen and supported ✅ Innovative fundraising approaches, including community events and local donor relationships ✅ Why viewing youth as infrastructure is key to future societal growth ✅ How authentic leadership and resilience fuel long-term impactThis episode is for visionary executives and mission-driven leaders who want to scale their programs and deepen community impact.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 – Craig Baker's Journey with the Boys & Girls Club 1:03 – How Attending the Club Shaped Craig's Mission 2:41 – Creating a Sense of Belonging in Youth Development 3:48 – Building a Culture of Inclusion and Support 5:22 – Running a $5 Million Nonprofit: Challenges & Focus 6:54 – Customizing Programs to Community Needs 8:36 – Innovative Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofits 10:00 – Partnering with Local Influencers & Corporate Supporters 12:14 – Overcoming Rejection: Resilience in Fundraising 13:08 – Success Stories: Youth Who Flourished 14:17 – Leadership Lessons Learned from Parenting 15:38 – Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders 16:08 – Youth as Infrastructure: Addressing Societal Challenges 19:21 – Evolving Parental Involvement & Community Support 21:17 – Mentorship, Growth & Lessons from Craig's Mentors 23:07 – Facing Challenges with Resilience 28:16 – Future Plans: Expanding Services & Meeting Demand 29:12 – How to Support the Boys & Girls Club📊 KEY TAKEAWAYS:Long-term mentorship transforms lives — as seen in Tatiana's journey from shy member to college leaderIntentional staff behaviors (smiling, greeting by name) create truly welcoming environmentsFundraising success hinges on authentic relationships, not just events or grantsViewing youth as infrastructure means investing in tomorrow's societal leadersResilience through rejection is what enables sustained mission-driven impact👤 ABOUT CRAIG BAKER: Craig Baker is CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, with 30+ years in youth development and nonprofit leadership. His work focuses on building inclusive, supportive communities where every young person can thrive.🔗 Organization: https://bgcastamford.org🎙️ ABOUT HART & HUSTLE: Weekly conversations with mission-driven leaders solving real problems in healthcare, education, and community services — with practical strategies to help nonprofit leaders scale impact with integrity and purpose.🔗 CONNECT:FRANSiS™: https://fransis.aiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fromfransis#NonprofitLeadership #YouthDevelopment #CommunityImpact #BoysAndGirlsClub #MissionDriven

June 3, 2026Episode 35929 min

How Mentorship Builds Lifelong Bonds and Transforms Communities

In this episode, Susie Gallo, Executive Director of the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance shares inspiring stories from her 30 years, emphasizing the profound impact long-term mentorship has on young lives. She explains how sustained relationships foster resilience, confidence, and community integration, especially for kids facing trauma or social challenges.In this episode:The incredible longevity and impact of mentorship ties, with some relationships lasting over nine yearsHow one mentor’s support can help a young person process trauma, such as immigration fears or past abuseThe unique community dynamics in Sonoma and how local funding keeps mentorship programs thrivingWhy consistency, authenticity, and emotional support are core to effective mentorshipThe importance of mentors supporting social and emotional skills, beyond academic tutoringStrategies for nonprofit leaders to stay motivated amid fundraising challengesPersonal stories of growth, vulnerability, and the importance of authenticity in leadershipThe role of community, volunteers, staff, and boards in sustaining successful programsThe practical advice mentors give about showing up every week and building trustTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance and its mission02:23 - The journey of long-term mentor-mentee relationships05:12 - Impact stories of mentors supporting trauma and life milestones09:01 - The significance of authenticity and showing up as your true self12:25 - Mentorship as a tool for resilience in communities facing socio-political challenges16:11 - The importance of emotional connection over academic support alone19:08 - Fundraising challenges in nonprofits and community support22:23 - The value of consistency and community-funded models29:15 - How social media showcases real mentorship stories and activities31:24 - The enriching experiences of mentorship outings and activities32:02 - What motivates nonprofit leaders and the power of community and kidsConnect with Susie:Sonoma Valley Mentoring AllianceSusie’s LinkedInConnect with FRANSiS:FRANSiS websiteFRANSiS LinkedIn

February 10, 2025Episode 14031 min

Beyond Charity: How Nonprofits Can Drive Real, Measurable Impact

In this episode of The Hart and Hustle Podcast, we sit down with Scott Walker, CEO of Lifewise St. Louis, to discuss what real impact looks like in the nonprofit world. Scott shares how he transitioned from the corporate sector to leading a mission-driven organization, why traditional nonprofit models fail, and how data-driven strategies can create long-term change. If you're a business leader, nonprofit professional, or entrepreneur looking to scale impact, this episode is for you!

December 1, 2024Episode 12645 min

How Women Leaders Redefine Strength in Leadership

Discover the incredible journey of Phyllis Wilson, President of the Military Women’s Memorial Foundation, in this impactful episode of the Hart & Hustle Podcast. Learn how Phyllis’s 37-year military career shaped her leadership, resilience, and mission to preserve the stories of over 3 million women who have served in the U.S. military. From overcoming biases to leading with purpose, Phyllis shares insights on creating a legacy of service, inspiring the next generation, and honoring untold stories. Don’t miss this conversation filled with lessons for leaders and changemakers everywhere.

November 14, 2024Episode 11145 min

Hidden Keys to Balancing Family and Career

In this compelling episode of the Hart & Hustle podcast, we sit down with Tosha Connors, CEO of My Sister's House, as she shares her unique journey through nonprofit leadership, community building, and finding balance between career and family. Tosha dives into the challenges of affordable housing, the importance of authentic connections, and her experiences moving from major cities to Charleston. She also opens up about navigating personal and professional challenges, including the struggles faced by survivors seeking safe spaces. Join us for an insightful conversation on resilience, community support, and redefining success for modern professionals.