Through the Noise

We're excited to welcome Thomas Raffa, founder of Raffa, PC, an accounting firm servicing nonprofit, governmental, and other clients while maintaining a firm commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Prior to forming Raffa, PC, Mr. Raffa had a career at one of the "Big Four" accounting firms but became dissatisfied with the pursuit of profit above all else. With a desire to use his skills for the greater good, he founded Raffa PC in 1984 with a model that today fits under the banner of "B Corporation" with a focus on social responsibility. The firm donates 10% of revenue to charitable causes and continues to grow. Find out how they are working to change the face of business to encourage social engagement and community involvement. Could their model help you attract and retain employees and grow your business or organization? Tom founded Raffa, P.C. over a quarter century ago to service the needs of the nonprofit community. As an owner-partner, Tom turned his vision into reality by building a company designed to improve the business of nonprofits and to focus on its corporate and civic responsibility. Today, the foundation that Tom began laying in 1984 is solid and the business which grew from two to 250 employees has never lost sight of its overarching goal – to strengthen the social fiber of its community. With nearly 250 on-staff professionals and 17 partners, Raffa is now recognized as one of the 100 largest and best-managed accounting firms in the U.S. They are among the first Washington DC area businesses to earn B Corporation Certification. Serving as advisors and back office solution providers to nonprofit organizations and businesses, Raffa's client-centric, customized approach helps each client meet its potential and ensures that each client's success is sustained and maintained.

Lori Anderson, President and CEO of the International Sign Association joins us today to talk about the organization that "points the way for communities to thrive." The International Sign Association is an organization whose work is crucial, omnipresent, and almost totally inconspicuous to the public. Though signs are an essential aspect of modern life -- without which most of us would find ourselves lost almost constantly -- their success is rarely noticed while failures become the fodder of internet memes. Ms. Anderson's passion for way finding and signage is palpable and not to be missed. Bring your sense of curiosity and learn a little bit more about the curious world in which we all live. Lori Anderson is President & CEO for the International Sign Association (ISA), which serves the international on-premise signage and visual communications industry. ISA's programs include educational conferences, government relations, technology research and the ISA International Sign Expo, which attracts some 20,000 signage and graphics professionals annually. Prior to joining ISA in 2004, Lori was Strategic Planning and Industry Relations Officer for the Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc. (SPI) in Washington, DC, where she was responsible for a number of programs, including government and public affairs, industry statistics, international trade policy and strategic planning. ISA and its Affiliated Associations work to support, promote, and improve the worldwide sign and visual communications industry, which employs more than 200,000 American workers and has an economic impact of $37.5 billion.

We keep it local again today with Arlington County, Virginia's newest County Board Member, Christian Dorsey, who started his term on January 1. Arlington is just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC and at 26 square miles is the smallest county in the nation in size but one of the most dense and diverse and home to the world's largest office building, the Pentagon, and National Airport. As a lifelong activist, Mr. Dorsey explains that running for County office was the next step for him in becoming more deeply involved in the community where he's lived since 1993, although he jokes that you "must disassociate yourself from rational thought in order to run." While working to set an example for his kids on how to be involved and active in their community, he is working for all residents, with a special focus on affordable housing -- which is increasingly becoming more rare around the country, but especially in the Washington, DC area. To learn more about this fascinating place and hear more about Mr. Dorsey's strong background in public service, don't miss this episode. Christian Dorsey has dedicated his efforts to improving our community, most recently as a new member of the Arlington County Board beginning in November 2015. Mr. Dorsey has a focus on continuing to enhance the quality of life for all Arlingtonians by charting a course toward sustainable growth, to figure out how we meet our present needs and overcome current challenges without compromising the ability of current and future residents to enjoy our great community. The Arlington County Board is composed of five at-large members that establish policies, and oversee governance, growth and development.

After a couple of trips around the world with Global Communities and USAID, we return back to our neighborhood and welcome Justin Wilt, Executive Director of the Arlington Soccer Association. Not to be confused with Arlington, TX or Arlington, MA -- as happens with some regularity by enthusiastic parents from the south and north -- this Arlington Soccer Association is based in Virginia and organizes a league for kids as young and tiny as 3 years old up to 19-20. Soccer has been growing in popularity in the US in recent decades and is one of the most accessible and egalitarian sports available. Requiring little equipment -- so, a limited financial investment -- it breaks down barriers and builds friendships and skills. With 9,000 kids playing soccer in Arlington, there's a real need for an official organizational structure. And we're excited to speak with Justin Wilt about making a real difference in the life of kids. Justin Wilt has more than 30 years of experience leading & improving operations across a variety of industries. In his 7th year as the Executive Director of Arlington Soccer, Justin combines his passion for youth development and the sport of soccer with a strong business drive & discipline."}" The Arlington Soccer Association offers recreational, developmental and travel soccer, as well as a number of camps, clinics and other programs serving over 9,000 children each year. We provide quality soccer programs and experiences for people of all abilities, backgrounds and financial means to encourage personal growth, promote a love for the game, and advance soccer in Arlington and surrounding communities.

Today on Through the Noise we bring you collaborators from different parts of the development world -- Alexis Bonnell from USAID, who is an "Innovation Evaganelist" and Steven O'Connor, Communications Director of DAI -- an employee owned global development firm. Ms. Bonnell is part of USAID's new Global Development Lab which is undertaking the challenge of eradicating extreme poverty by 2030. Technological advancements have made unprecedented changes possible while harnessing the collective brilliance of humanity. Listen up to learn more about their plans to change the world and maybe some of the strategies they emply will be useful in your own work. Alexis Bonnell is the Head of Applied Innovation at USAID and is focused on harnessing innovation to address humanities greatest challenges. Alexis has delivered over one billion dollars in development and humanitarian programming in over 25 countries, working with over 200 partners across all sectors of aid. USAID is the lead U.S. Government agency that works to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential. Steven O'Connor is DAI's Senior Director for Corporate Communications. He oversees internal and external communications for the company, which currently employs some 2,500 people on 150 projects in 92 countries. DAI is an employee-owned international development company dedicated to shaping a more livable world.

We've recently had David Humphries and Nancy McDonald of Global Communities on the show and today we are pleased to welcome Milton Funes who is the Director of Program Impact and Learning at Global Communities. An engineer by training, he originally became involved in international aid work when Hurricane Mitch struck Honduras in 1998. Global Communities has been operating in Honduras for 35 years and is extremely effective in not only assisting people impacted and traumatized by disaster -- but also giving local people the tools and education necessary to rebuild their lives, livelihood, and communities. A number of aid organizations have made the mistake of going to a country and just talking and talking -- forgetting the importance of listening to learn. Milton Funes has 15 years of international development experience, with expertise in NGO capacity building, health, social infrastructure, urban/rural planning, micro-finance and economic development. In his current role as Director of Program Impact and Learning, he leads a team focusing on taking lessons learned in the field and disseminating across the development field and other interested parties.

Today we're pleased to welcome Caroline Scullin, Vice President of External Relations for the Wilson Center -- the nation's premier nonpartisan think tank based in Washingon, DC. Created to honor the memory of President Woodrow Wilson, the Center is a place where scholars and experts from around the world gather to do and present research and to make the knowledge of academia more relevant, digestible, and useful for public policy makers, the media, as well as the general public. Ms. Scullin helps explain the role and value of the Center through the recent Iran agreement. The Center has the influence and the means to convene diverse voices and perspectives, ensuring that the research produced incorporates multiple viewpoints. Caroline Scullin is the Vice President for External Relations at the Wilson Center. Caroline had over 20 years of experience in strategic communications in the public, private and non-profit sectors tackling complex issues and conveying them to a wide range of audiences and stakeholders. The Wilson Center is a non-partisan think tank and living national memorial to President Woodrow Wilson. The Center addresses global issues through independent research and open dialogue to inform actionable policy ideas.

Today we're excited to present a show with two guests we've had previously, Robert Shea of Grant Thornton and John Porter of ACT for Alexandria. When they joined us before, we learned of their collaborative relationship so we're pleased to bring them together to pick their brains and talk about their experience and ideas for engaging their community. While they are based in Alexandria, VA, these concepts can be used anywhere. Robert Shea explains the crucial role of being a good corporate citizen in recruiting and retaining talented employees and says it is now an "essential" part of the recruitment process. Having a relationshilp with an organization like ACT for Alexandria allows the company to contribute financially while offering their staff a way to give back to their community with their time, energy, skills, and enthusiasm. John retired from the Alexandria City Public Schools in 2009 after a distinguished career with the Alexandria City Public Schools, which was highlighted by his twenty-two year tenure as principal of T. C. Williams High School of Remember the Titans movie fame. After retirement, John continued his work in Alexandria and is presently serving as president and CEO of ACT for Alexandria, Alexandria's community foundation. ACT's mission is to increase the level and effectiveness of giving and engagement in Alexandria. Robert Shea is a principal and a member of our Global Public Sector practice. He is on the organizational improvement team and has conducted performance management engagements with the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs, as well as the National Endowment for the Arts. He was most recently at the U.S. Office of Management and Budget as associate director for administration and government performance. Before joining OMB, Shea served as counsel to the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs. Grant Thornton works with a broad range of publicly and privately held companies, government agencies, financial institutions, and civic and religious organizations. Core industries served include consumer and industrial products, financial services, not-for-profit, private equity, and technology. Grant Thornton focuses on serving dynamic organizations that pursue growth holistically — whether through revenue improvement, leadership, mission fulfillment, or innovation.

Maria Morukian, the president and founder of MSM Global Consulting joins us today to talk about organizational culture change and manages to convert Blake into a giant fan of consultants. She works with organizations that are undergoing (or planning to undergo) a major cultural revamp -- revising and rewriting the norms, values, and behaviors of that organization by including the perspectives of everyone on staff impacted by the transition. Emphasizing the necessity of creating / maintaingin a connection to the organization between staff at all levels, MSM Global Consulting's focus is on developing sustainable change for the long-term. Maria Morukian is a leadership consultant, coach, and trainer who has spent the last fourteen years helping to grow thoughtful, influential, and inclusive leaders at all levels and to build organizations that maximize the diverse talents of their workforce. She is an adjunct professor at American University's School of International Service. MSM Global Consulting is a professional services firm that partners with organizations of every size and sector, specializing in organizational culture change and leadership development.

Nick DeSarno joins us today from the Public Affairs Council where he manages the grassroots and communications department. The Public Affairs Council is a nonpartisan association assisting, eductating, training and advocating for public affairs professionals around the world. The public affairs field is comprised of people who work to engage influencers and public officials and the Council is a membership association representing 700 different organizations that are primarlily trade associations. If you have struggled to effectively convey your message to lawmakers, this episode will help point you in the right direction. Nick DeSarno is the manager, grassroots and communications for the Public Affairs Council. In this capacity, he is the Council's lead expert on digital communications and its intersection with advocacy. The Public Affairs Council is the leading nonpartisan, nonpolitical association for public affairs professionals worldwide. The Public Affairs Council is the leading nonpartisan, nonpolitical association for public affairs professionals worldwide.

Nancy McDonald joins us from Global Communities where she works to implement creative programs with youth around the world through community-based solutions. A Senior Technical Specialist, her focus is to give youth a voice in their communities and help create educated, driven, and skilled leaders for the next generation. Like many working in international development, Global Communities recognizes what may work stunningly well in one country could be an offensive, cultural failure in another -- so they partner with community leaders on the ground who have roots where they work. Nancy McDonald is the Senior Technical Specialist for Youth at Global Communities, where she provides technical support to Global Communities youth programming. Nancy started her career in international development managing and designing girls' scholarship programs and has worked and lived in the West Bank and Gaza, Macedonia and Jordan leading vocational education and scholarship programs. Global Communities is an international non-profit organization that works closely with communities worldwide to bring about sustainable changes that improve the lives and livelihoods of the vulnerable.

Shari Turitz of the American Jewish World Service joins us to talk about international development and the human rights work they are doing in 19 countries. The AJWS partners with strong, effective locally-based organizations in the developing world and provides them with resources to make them stronger and even more effective. Their large donor base is driven by the desire for social justice, empowering them to work directly with grassroots organizations on the ground that know and understand local conditions. Shari Turitz is the Vice President for Programs at American Jewish World Service, leading the Programs Division and overseeing AJWS's grantmaking, domestic and international strategy. She brings with her more than 20 years of experience in human rights grantmaking, capacity building and advocacy, and 15 years of senior management and program development experience. Inspired by the Jewish commitment to justice, American Jewish World Service (AJWS) works to realize human rights and end poverty in the developing world. Learn more at www.ajws.org.

As we learn today from Andy Polk, you could be 3-D printing your own shoes in 10-15 years, but until then most Americans are dependent on imported shoes – like the 99% of all footwear worn in the United States. Andy Polk is Senior Vice President of the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America which represents the entire footwear supply chain from designers all the way to the retailers. Working in an industry that is based almost exclusively abroad presents challenges that most organizations will never face but the FDRA is working to bring manufacturers and others in the supply chain to a baseline of standards to protect worker health and safety. As FDRA's Vice President, Andy Polk oversees the associations communications, marketing, reports, and events. Previously, he served as a Director of Communications and Public Affairs and Senior Advisor to a Member of Congress from 2002-2011. Founded in 1944, the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America (FDRA) is the oldest, largest, and most effective footwear trade association in the U.S.

Today's guest on Through the Noise is Reggie Henry, the Chief Information Officer for ASAE, the American Society of Association Executives. You may remember our previous discussion with ASAE President and CEO, John Graham, but if you need a refresher or missed it last time, find it here. Reggie Henry manages the technology for ASAE and ensures that it is integrated into the marketing and business plans. For those responsible for technology purchases, he advises never buying anything that's not mobile ready. ASAE operates with a "Work Out Loud" policy so that all of their members can see what their doing and how to replicate it so no one wastes time reinventing the wheel. Get these and other essential tips today on Through the Noise. Reggie Henry joined ASAE in November of 1994. His responsibilities are to implement "exemplary" systems at ASAE that can serve as a model to the rest of the association community and to "ratchet-up" the use and understanding of technology among ASAE members. In 2009 he was invited by the Secretary of Smithsonian to participate in Smithsonian 2.0, a Gathering to Re-Imagine the Smithsonian in the Digital Age. Reggie was recently named one of the top 40 CIOs in DC-MD-VA area. ASAE is a membership organization of more than 21,000 association executives and industry partners representing 9,300 organizations. Its members manage leading trade associations, individual membership societies and voluntary organizations across the United States and in nearly 50 countries around the world.

Today's guest is Brian Lagana who represents the American Trucking Associations, uniting state associations, conferences and individual members under a national umbrella organization. While a large portion of the public is anxious about getting their packages faster and faster, the ATA is responsible for ensuring that safety and regulations are adhered to in the face of growing pressures. An important component of their work is advancing the sustainability of the trucking industry and helping it grow in stewardship. Brian Lagana is currently the Executive Director of the American Trucking Associations' Safety Management Council and Transportation Security Council. He has spent the past 26 years in association management, including 18 of those years as an association Executive Director with government relations involvement. The Safety Management Council and Transportation Security Council, part of the American Trucking Associations federation, are THE national non-profit organizations dedicated to professionals involved in safety and human resources, and security functions with commercial motor carriers.

Today we sit down with Richard G. Thissen & Jessica Klement who represent 225,000 members of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association. The majority of the federal workforce is spread out all over the country although many people have the wrong impression that people who work for the government only live in Washington, DC. Ms. Klement is part of the lobbying faction to ensure that Congress does cut into the benefits of retired members, amongst other issues concerning the millions of Americans that fit under the heading of retired federal workers. Though their membership is quite a bit larger than many nonprofits we have on Through the Noise, they are striving to go bigger and are aiming to have Congress fear their NARFE voting record the way they fear their NRA record. Is this a target for your organization? Listen up for tips. "Richard G. Thissen is the National President of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), one of the largest federal employee and retiree organizations dedicated to protecting the earned rights and benefits of America's active and retired federal workers. Dick spent 27 years in federal service as a civilian employed by the Department of the Army before taking on various roles within NARFE and ultimately being elected as National President of NARFE in 2014. Jessica Klement is the legislative director of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) and is responsible for carrying out the legislative and political strategies of the organization, as well as taking NARFE members' concerns to Congress as the association's chief lobbyist. Jessica's policy analysis on federal employee and retiree issues has been featured in The Washington Post, NPR, USA Today and the Associated Press and she is a regular guest on Federal News Radio." The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the earned pay, retirement and health care benefits of federal employees, retirees and their survivors.

Today's guest, Jonathan Zuck, is President of the App Association, a trade organization representing the interests of 5,000 companies working in the mobile economy. While the word "app" replaced the word application in the popular lexicon less a decade ago, it's been in circulation in the tech world since the 80s and represents more than just the "apps" on smartphones. Jonathan Zuck has been active in the field for decades and worked on the programmer side prior to joining the Association. Join us for a conversation about a robust and growing industry. A former software developer and teacher of international renown, Jonathan Zuck is currently the President of ACT |The App Association where he advocates for an environment that inspires and rewards innovation. Jonathan is also an award winning photographer and filmmaker whose work has been shown around the world. ACT | The App Association represents more than 5,000 app companies and information technology firms in the mobile economy. In addition to its advocacy around the world, ACT provides resources to help its members leverage their intellectual assets to raise capital, create jobs, and continue innovating.

Courtney B. Spaeth is Chief Executive Officer of Growth, a consultancy that works with nonprofits and businesses to create plans for sustainable and measurable growth. Today's conversation is packed with valuable ideas you can take back to your own office ranging from company culture to hiring. Business development is "a lot like dating," and needs to be approached thoughtfully. Starting her career in Fortune 100 companies, Ms Spaeth brings an different approach to the nonprofit worth and her insights are invaluable. Courtney B. Spaeth, founder and CEO of growth.[period], is a recognized expert in public and private business development, corporate growth, and mergers and acquisition support, as well as a sought after speaker on a broad range of business and leadership issues. Through her leadership, growth.[period] has cultivated a proven track record of success helping companies, including Fortune 100 firms, in both the Federal and commercial sectors achieve smart growth. The most important issue for companies in today's challenging business environment is intelligent expansion, with CEO's vying for that special edge that will help them achieve and sustain growth; growth.[period] is the professional expert and the partner that helps companies realize that success, and has served a broad range of clients, including Lockheed Martin, Verizon, Genesys, Stanley Black & Decker, and Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, since its inception in 2007.

On Through the Noise today we're joined by Ian McLeod, Founder of Cleod9, a music production firm that specializes in the outdoor adventure field. Ian is a nontraditional guest as we don't sit down with many people from start-ups but he has some creative approaches to generating clients and buzz that could be valuable to nonprofits ready to think and work outside the box. One of his secrets to success is working from a weekly work plan of deliverables, rather than a daily list. What about you? Any useful tips you'd like to share with fellow listeners? Ian McLeod was born and raised in the Washington, D.C area. He graduated JMU in 2013 with a degree in Communications and Music Business. In 2014, he left his job at an ad agency to put his musical/business skills to use by starting Cleod9 Music. Cleod9 is a music production company that creates original/licensed music for commercials, digital shorts, documentaries and film. Our business reach is on a national basis.

If anyone has ever told you to focus on your developing your weaknesses instead of your strengths, you won't want to miss David Wakeman's thoughts on the subject. Principical of the Wakeman Consulting Group, David Wakeman works with nonprofits to help remember and amplify the value they add to the world in order to become not only more profitable but also more successful. Bringing a business approach to nonprofit goals is a switch that would benefit a great number of nonprofits and today's episode is packed with useful information and ideas to revamp and reinvigorate your work. Dave Wakeman is known as "The Revenue Architect." His firm works with organizations to maximize their revenue structures. Dave writes a weekly newsletter all about value creation in your organization

Is your website running too slowly? Are you missing upgrades from your CMS? We check in with this common issue during our Problem of the Day. Don't leave your organization vulnerable to hacking. Today's guest is Mary Hynes who has been making waves and creating positive change in Arlington County during most of her 27 years there. Initially elected to the Arlington County School Board, Mary Hynes' story is a great example of recognizing a problem, thinking "someone should do something," realizing you are that someone and then committing fully to making the changes necessary. We catch up with her after she concludes a two-term, eight year tenure on the Arlington County Board, including time as the Board Chair. Learn some lessons in collaboration, communication, and getting things done from Mary Hynes. Mary Hynes has been a civic activist and public servant for more than 30 years including 20 years as an elected official serving on both the Arlington County School Board and County Board. She has consistently and effectively led Arlington's efforts to strengthen its government by enhancing civic participation, improving government management, and increasing investment in Arlington's public physical infrastructure. The Arlington County Board is composed of five at-large members that establish policies, and oversee governance, growth and development.

As the United States continuously frets about the constantly rising prices of college education, we speak to Lindel Fields who is taking a decidedly different approach. As Superintendent and CEO of the Tricounty Technology Center, Lindel Fields' life work is to provide educational and vocational opportunities for high school students and adults who are hoping to provide a better life for themselves or their family. The Tricounty Technology Center, based in Oklahoma, is excellent option for those who don't have the means or time to enroll in an expensive, four-year college and has a goal of graduating all their students debt-free. Ten months and $3,000 later, adults who had previously been trapped in minimum wage jobs are qualified for positions starting at $40,000 -- making the vast difference between a family stuck in the relentless cycle of poverty, and one that has some breathing room. Don't miss the chance to hear from our passionate guest today who has been part of the Center since he was a student at age 19. Lindel Fields has been a Career Tech educator for 25 years. He leads one of Oklahoma's premier Technology Centers - Tri County is known throughout the country for innovation and student success. Tri County is one of Oklahoma's 29 Technology Centers serving High School and Adult student in Northeast Oklahoma.

"You could be drinking dinosaur pee," Melissa Meeker points out at the start of today's episode. Executive Director of both the WateReuse Association and WateReuse Research Foundation, Melissa Meeker has decades of experience working with water in the public and private sectors. One of the Association's main objectives -- and struggles -- is educating the public about the range of possibilities for reusing water and that there is no such thing as "new water." Water is necessary for everything and we need to use it more effectively. Melissa is a seasoned water executive with more than 20 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, with a broad range of expertise that includes regulatory issues, policy development, and executive management. She previously served as executive director of the South Florida Water Management District and as deputy secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, with responsibility for overseeing statewide water and environmental restoration policy. WateReuse is internationally-recognized as a thought-leader on alternative water supply development. It is the go-to organization for applied research, policy guidance and educational tools on water reuse as well as the principal influencer of public opinion, lawmakers and policymakers on policy and projects related to water reuse.

The Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad has a special place in host Ernesto's heart -- he volunteered there for six years. Today's guest is his friend from that time -- Gamunu Wijetunge, President of the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad, who has been deeply involved in the Squad for 21 years. Despite having "volunteer" in the title, there's a common misconception about how the Rescue Squad works -- it's not funded by taxes, major donors, or foundations -- even Gamunu Wijetunge volunteers in his role as President. If you're looking for a new way to get involved in your community, you won't want to miss this episode. Gamunu Wijetunge is President of the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad, Inc. (WVRS) based in Montgomery County, Maryland. He has volunteered with the WVRS since 1995, where he still serves as an active paramedic and firefighter. The WVRS is a volunteer, not-for-profit corporation whose mission is to protect the public's health and safety by providing emergency services to any person in need who calls 9-1-1.

Today on Through the Noise we are joined by Paul Pomerantz, CEO of the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Managing a large association with 53,000 members with different specialties presents a number of challenges but one problem facing the ASA is the need to educate the public about their work. A large percentage of the public isn't aware of the responsibilities of anesthesiologists and do not realize the scope to which an anesthesiologist is involved in keeping patients alive and well during surgical procedures. You can find them on their website or on Twitter with #PhysAnesWk16. Paul Pomerantz has more than two decades of executive experience in the health care association sector. Prior to joining ASA in March 2013, Mr. Pomerantz served as the Executive Director of the Drug Information Association (DIA), an 18,000-member international nonprofit organization for the medical products industry. Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is an educational, research and scientific society with more than 52,000 members organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology. ASA is committed to ensuring that physician anesthesiologists evaluate and supervise the medical care of patients before, during, and after surgery to provide the highest quality and safest care that every patient deserves.

Mary Collins and Stefan Woehlke founded Carpe DC Food Tours as a way to communicate the history and culture of Washington, DC through food. Focusing on the dynamic neighborhoods of Shaw and U Street, the start-up gives tourists and locals a deeper understanding of the streets and people that have made Washington, DC such a creative and fascinating place, rich with arts and literature and often obscured by the federal government's prominent influence. We sit down with Mary Collins and Stefan Woehlke and delve into some of these stories and get some mouth-watering food descriptions that will make you want to sign up for a food tour in DC or wherever you call home. Mary Collins and Stefan Woehlke started Carpe DC Food Tours after years of traveling the world, learning about communities through their food and heritage. When they're not touring or traveling, Stefan is working towards his phD in Archaeology at the University of Maryland, and Mary works for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Carpe DC Food Tours tells the stories of DC's iconic neighborhoods through food and they are the district's only one-for one food tour, which means for every ticket purchased they provide food for a day to someone in need through their partnership with Bread for the City.

NPPD: Nonprofits get free google apps in the U.S. but the process is a bit more complicated for international nonprofits. If you need help signing up for these useful apps, contact Infamia, and they'll give you a hand, for free. Today we chat with Debra S. Satkowiak of The Institute of Makers of Explosives, an organization representing the commercial explosives industry, including mining, blasting, and construction. The members of IME do essential work most of us are unaware is happening but without which, our lives would be a lot more treacherous. They have been working for over a decade to ensure that explosives that are used commercially are safe for the public and that products in our every day lives are also safe. To find out more about this fascinating world, settle in for our conversation with Debra S. Satkowiak! Debra Satkowiak became the President of IME on April 14, 2014. Prior to her position with the IME, Deb served 23 years with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Deb began her career with ATF as an inspector in Michigan in 1991, and a decade later transferred to ATF headquarters to develop advanced explosives training. She also served as an Area Supervisor and the Chief, Explosives Industry Programs Branch, as well as held responsibilities in ATF's Office of Public and Governmental Affairs. She acted as the Chief of Staff in the Office of the Director, and most recently served as the Chief, Firearms and Explosives Industry Division, responsible for developing policy, drafting regulations, and providing technical support on explosives to the Bureau, industry members, the public, and other Federal, State and local agencies. The IME is the Safety and Security Institute of the commercial explosives industry. The Institute represents U.S. manufacturers of high explosives and other companies that distribute explosives or provide related products and services. An average of 3 million metric tons of explosives are consumed annually in the United States, of which IME member companies produce over 95 percent. They are essential to energy production, highway and building construction, and the manufacture of almost all metal and mineral products.

Today we sit down with Shaun Masavage, the CEO/Founder of Edge Tech Labs, a product development firm that recently launched their first product, DrinkMate, a personal, portable breathalyzer that works with your smartphone. Now available for Androids and iPhones, this compact tool has a great back story which we hear some of today. If you have a fantastic idea for a new tool, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Learn the ins and outs of working with manufacturers in China, why that approach might (or might not) work for you, and the inspiration behind the compact design which played such a crucial role in making this a feasible option for everyone looking to stay safe and legal. Shaun Masavage is an engineer, entrepreneur and the inventor of DrinkMate, the world's smallest portable breathalyzer which plugs directly into your Android phone

Today's problem of the day is how to rectify a protected Twitter account with the need to reach a wide audience. And this ties right into our guest, Horacio Gavilán, Executive Director of AHAA, the largest national trade organization "representing the entire Hispanic marketing, communications and media industry." The word Hispanic was invented in 1972 by the U.S. Census Bureau to encompass 37 different nationalities and the population of those who would check that box in the Census is now 57 million in the United States. We learn the vast buying power of the Hispanic population in the U.S. which nearly every major industry has missed out on until recently. The IME is the Safety and Security Institute of the commercial explosives industry. The Institute represents U.S. manufacturers of high explosives and other companies that distribute explosives or provide related products and services. An average of 3 million metric tons of explosives are consumed annually in the United States, of which IME member companies produce over 95 percent. They are essential to energy production, highway and building construction, and the manufacture of almost all metal and mineral products. Horacio Gavilan has more than 20 years of experience in association management. In addition to his role as president of Gavilan & Associates, he serves as executive director of AHAA: The Voice of Hispanic Advertising, a position he has held since 1999. In this capacity, he has lead the board to achieve a membership that encompasses 97% of the total billings into the Hispanic market.

We start today's episode by checking in with Mickey of Infamia for the Nonprofit Problem of the Day. Now that you have a Member Community, the challenge is to integrate it into your CRM so your users (and staff) have full functionality. Today is a bit of a departure as we sit down with Robert Shea of Grant Thornton, one of our rare guests from the private sector. In the Washington region though, even the private sector is deeply embedded in public for the public, as are most of our guests. As the fourth largest employer in Alexandria, VA, Grant Thorton is focused on employee engagement and works with local nonprofits like Act for Alexandria (whose President, John Porter) was previously a guest on Through the Noise) to provide creative and useful ways for employees to contribute their time and energy to making a difference in the community. We also touch on the sometimes confusing concepts of cost and indirect cost for nonprofits. Don't miss this episode to grab some insights from a different perspective. Robert Shea is a principal and a member of our Global Public Sector practice. He is on the organizational improvement team and has conducted performance management engagements with the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs, as well as the National Endowment for the Arts. He was most recently at the U.S. Office of Management and Budget as associate director for administration and government performance. Before joining OMB, Shea served as counsel to the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs. Grant Thornton works with a broad range of publicly and privately held companies, government agencies, financial institutions, and civic and religious organizations. Core industries served include consumer and industrial products, financial services, not-for-profit, private equity, and technology. Grant Thornton focuses on serving dynamic organizations that pursue growth holistically — whether through revenue improvement, leadership, mission fulfillment, or innovation.

Our latest Nonprofit Problem of the Week: setting up a Member Community. How could a Member Community benefit your organization?Today we have a very timely guest -- Dr. Shawn DuBravac, Chief Economist of the Consumer Technology Association, the organization responsible for the world's largest technology trade show which just wrapped up in Las Vegas. With over 150,000 attendees and 3500 exhibitors, it's hard not to hear the breathless reports all over mainstream media as people gush about the newest gadgets. Beyond organizing the wildly popular Consumer Electronics Show every January, the Consumer Technology Association is a trade organization working on policy and representing its 2200 members. Don't miss today's episode as we talk technology in 2016. Dr. Shawn DuBravac is chief economist of the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), where he provides crucial economic analysis to association and industry leaders regarding future economic activity and the relative health of the technology industry. DuBravac is the author of CEA's third book Digital Destiny: How the New Age of Data Will Transform the Way We Work, Live, and Communicate (Regnery, 2015), which explores how the world's mass adoption of digital technologies portends the beginning of a new era for humanity in the realms of economics, health, travel and culture. CEA is the U.S. trade association representing more than 2,000 consumer electronics companies, which owns and produces CES, the world's largest gathering place for all who thrive on the business of consumer technologies.

Our latest Nonprofit Problem of the Week involves an association management system that was acquired and installed without proper integration into the association's website, leaving members unable to login and interact with the organization. Don't let your members or donors down with a compromised system, contact Infamia today to ensure your processes are working smoothly. Today's guest is Cynthia Woodroof of the American Art Therapy Association that works to support the young but fast-growing field of art therapy. Engaged in lobbying, outreach, and education, the staff of AATA is dedicated to making art therapy not only known, but also accessible to people around the country who require mental health support. Many people assume that anything involving art -- including the recent trend of adult coloring books -- can be considered art therapy, but in order to qualify, one must work with a therapist who also has a masters in art therapy from one of forty different master's programs around the country. Don't miss this episode if you'd like to learn more about this revolutionary approach to treating mental health. Cynthia spent first half of her professional journey working for major media networks and decided to give up the corporate world in 2007 to pursue a more personally rewarding career in non-profit. She is currently the Executive Director of the American Art Therapy Association, a 5000 member associations that is the leading voice for art therapy in the US. For your audience that may not be aware, Art Therapy which is a form of psychotherapy that uses art media as its primary mode of communication commonly practiced in clinical settings with veterans, children, seniors, etc.

Today's Nonprofit Problem of the Week addresses CRMs. Are you pleased with the technology you're using to manage your member and donor relationships? Do you have all the functionality you require -- without tons of extraneous options? Call Infamia if you are ready to stop struggling with this essential part of nonprofit management. And our guest is Joseph Doss of the International Bottled Water Association who helps dispel some of the rumors about the bottled water industry. Did you know that most bottled water manufacturers are small businesses? 90% of IBWA's members have revenue under $10 million, and a large number are multi-generational family businesses that have been filling water coolers and stimulating office conversation for decades. The water bottle industry has greatly reduced their impact over the last 15 years while working to shrink their bottles and cut back on waste. If you're a devoted tap water drinker or a lover of bottled water, you won't want to miss the insights in this episode. Joe Doss is President and CEO of the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA). He has extensive experience in food and drug issues, government relations, public affairs, association management, and legal matters. Joe has a B.A. in government from The College of William and Mary and a J.D. from George Mason University School of Law, and he is a member of the Bar in Virginia and the District of Columbia. The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is the authoritative source of information about all types of bottled waters, including spring, mineral, purified, artesian, and sparkling. Founded in 1958, IBWA's membership includes U.S. and international bottlers, distributors and suppliers.

Today's nonprofit problem of the week: Wonky mobile apps that inexplicably changed fonts. Have you had issues with your mobile app behaving erratically? Infamia can help... Join us today for a conversation with Kris Admundson, the Executive Director of the National Association of State Boards of Education as we explore some of the new "No Child Left Behind" law and what it means for state boards of education, local community organizations, teachers, and students. Representing the Education Boards of 37 states, the NASB walks a difficult line -- working to emphasize the skills necessary for all students to thrive while respecting the idiosyncratic characteristics of wildly different areas across our diverse country. Kristen Amundson is executive director of the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE). She is a former member of the Virginia House of Delegates (D-Fairfax) and former chair of the Fairfax County School Board. The National Association of State Boards of Education is the only national organization giving voice and adding value to the nation's state boards of education. A non-profit organization founded in 1958, NASBE works to strengthen state leadership in educational policymaking, promote excellence in the education of all students, advocate equality of access to educational opportunity, and ensure continued citizen support for public education.

Levanto of Obadal, Filler, MacLeod and Klein, a law firm specializing in public policy and association management. Many quite small nonprofits don't have the ability to maintain a full-time staff -- or hire one person who can wear every hat -- and that's where association management firms come in. We explore different reasons nonprofits would have a lawyer on staff and how a single issue organization can avoid putting itself out of business. You may recognize this as a regular theme among guests on Through the Noise. What are your thoughts today? Brett Levanto is vice president of operations of Obadal, Filler, MacLeod and Klein, PLC managing firm and client communications in conjunction with regulatory and legislative policy initiatives. He provides strategic and logistical support for the Aeronautical Repair Station Association, Associated Equipment Distributors and the Aviation Technician Education Council. Obadal, Filler, MacLeod and Klein, Professional Limited Liability Company (PLC) is a boutique law firm that provides legal, legislative and administrative services to individuals, businesses, industry coalitions and trade associations. It has an impressive track record of shaping laws and regulations that impact its clients.

Do you feel the stress of working in an office, huddled over a computer is taking a toll on your body? Or worry about that old running injury that keeps flaring up? Today's guest, Michael Bowers of the American Physical Therapy Association has some ideas for you -- and 95,000 people at his fingertips that can help you address problems of your physical body so that your mind can work freely without worry. He has seen the wonders that physical therapy can offer to people of all ages through the tremendous success the therapy has had with his three year old granddaughter who was born prematurely. First developed to treat wounded warriors during World War I, physical therapy has grown and evolved, and continues to improve dramatically as a non-invasive way to treat people's injuries and maintain health throughout the aging process. After listening to this inspiring episode, you might find yourself calling one of the members of the American Physical Therapy Association. Your body would probably appreciate it. Bowers, is the recently appointed chief executive officer for the American Physical Therapy Association. He holds a bachelor's and master's degree from Harding University in Seacry, Arkansas, as well as having prior experience as a therapist in the justice system and as a minister. His most recent experience is that of CEO at the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Bowers worked for AAMFT for over 25 years in a variety of leadership positions where he developed expertise in many aspects of association management, including advocacy, governance, volunteer development, financial management, and member relations. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) is an individual membership professional organization representing more than 90,000 member physical therapists (PTs), physical therapist assistants (PTAs), and students of physical therapy. APTA seeks to improve the health and quality of life of individuals in society by advancing physical therapist practice, education, and research, and by increasing the awareness and understanding of physical therapy's role in the nation's health care system.

Today we take another cultural departure from Washington, DC and chat with Jon Pratt of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. The Council exists to make nonprofits more effective and helps share resources, education, and training among nonoprofits working in Minnesota. This helps their member organizations stay current on trends and technology even while focusing primarily on their core issues. Minnesota as a whole and the nonprofits working there benefit from a unique state tradition -- the Keystone Awards. Find out how charitable organizations are supplementing their fundraising and maybe something you hear in today's episode will trigger a great actionable idea for your organization. Jon Pratt is the executive director of the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. He has worked at Minnesota Public Interest Research Group as an attorney and lobbyist, as regional director at the Youth Project, and as director for the Philanthropy Project. The Minnesota Council of Nonprofits (MCN) was founded in 1987 to meet the increasing information needs of nonprofits and to convene nonprofits to address issues facing the sector. It is the largest state association of nonprofits in the U.S. Through MCN, nonprofits join together across interest areas to work on issues of common concern to all.

Have you ever wondered what it's like to work alongside local communities and businesses in far reaching corners of the world? How to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS across villages in Malawi? Talk about access to justice with indigenous tribes in Timor-Leste? Spread amessage of peace on the ground in Papua New Guinea? Find out from the experts in the second half of our two-part series with leaders from Counterpart International, a development organization that for 50 years has been working in close partnership with people and communities in more than 65 countries around the globe. In this episode, you'll hear from three of Counterpart's country directors – Bedilu Shegen, Steve Wisman and Carolyn Tanner – who share a bit about their experiences working in some of the world's most challenging places to bring life-changing health and justice programs directly to the doors of those who need them most. Best of all, when you're finished this episode and eager to hear more, take a listen to our recent conversation with Counterpart leaders from Guatemala and the Dominican Republic (episode #132) and with Counterpart President and CEO Joan Parker (episode #84).

This holiday season, we invite you to sit back and enjoy a stimulating two-part series addressing today's leading development issues: from climate change and capacity building to education and health and nutrition. Our conversations will engage experts, working on the ground, from Counterpart International, an international nonprofit that's been working for 50 years – and in more than 65 countries – to help people build better lives and more durable futures. In our first episode, you'll meet Maria Esther Bucaro, Counterpart's Country Director for Guatemala, and Paul Guggenheim, Country Representative for the Dominican Republic. In their lively conversation, Maria and Paul share insights into some of the challenges facing local communities in the regions where they live and work. Maria explains an innovative strategy for equipping farmers in rural Guatemala to overcome malnutrition and earn sustainable incomes. Paul speaks about efforts in the DR to improve climate resiliency, including a recent national action plan drafted in collaboration with the DR's Climate Council and presented last week at the COP21. Next up, remember to check back for our follow-up episode with Counterpart's Bedilu Shegen, Steve Wisman and Carolyn Tanner representing Malawi, Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste respectively. In the meantime, dive into our archives for our chat in May with Joan Parker, Counterpart's President and CEO (Episode #84).

Have you struggled to make connections to your supporters? Found visitors to your website visit a single page or two before leaving? You won't want to miss today's episode when we talk with online communications consultant and the founder of EPolitics, Colin Delaney. Many nonprofit organizations get buried in the details of their own work that they have limited time to seek out techniques to amplify their work and make sure it gets in front of the right people. If your organization is humming along perfectly and you have as many supporters and money as you need, congratulations! Check out some of our archives and tell us your secrets -- want to be a guest on the show? For everyone else, welcome! Colin Delany is a twenty-year veteran of internet politics, a digital strategy consultant, the founder/editor of EPolitics.com and a columnist for Campaigns & Elections. Delany is the author of several ebooks, including the digital campaigning guide "How to Use the Internet to Win in 2016" and a definitive overview of Barack Obama's groundbreaking 2008 online campaign for president. Epolitics.com is an award-winning, multi-author website that analyzes the tools and tactics of online politics and digital advocacy.

Today we're excited to welcome Cost Tree as a new sponsor. You may recall their appearance on episode 124. Thanks to their generous support, we're able to sit down today with Stephanie Berkowitz of the Northern Virginia Family Service. The NVFS is an organization working to strengthen communities in Northern Virginia by providing life-saving tools, resources, and training to those who need it most. NVSF provides a vast array of services to families in need and is constantly searching for additional revenue streams. Stephanie Berkowitz shares some of the struggles her catch-all organization faces and reiterates a point made by many guests on Through the Noise: storytelling is powerful and is the secret to connecting with your audience. Stephanie Berkowitz, M.S.W., was selected to lead NVFS in 2015 after a nationwide search. Stephanie's 16-year career with NVFS included leading the Survivors' Fund Project for victims of the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon, along with a diverse spectrum of programs serving clients in workforce development, health and mental health, legal assistance and housing programs. Prior to her promotion to president and CEO, Stephanie was Senior Vice President of Programs. Northern Virginia Family Service serves more than 34,000 individuals each year, providing essential programs to lift families above the poverty line and secure brighter futures. NVFS manages three local shelters, offers health and mental health services, runs youth prevention programs, coordinates foster care with local jurisdictions and provides early childhood education.

Providing a life-saving and life-changing service is something many organizations strive to do -- but once you've hit gold and have found a solution, the challenge becomes how to let potential clients know it exists. This is a good problem to have and one currently facing Code of Support, a four-year old organization based in Washington, DC. Code of Support is something of a "matchmaking organziation" which works to connect vets with essential services. Today we speak with Kristy Kaufman, Code of Support's Executive Director about the "Code" and learn ways to support the men and women who make up the Armed Services. This young nonprofit is making a big splash -- don't miss this episode to find out their secret to success. Kristy has served as an advocate for military and veteran families for over 12 years and is a subject matter expert regarding the mental health impacts of war on military families. Her publications and media appearances include the Washington Post, New York Times, NPR, CNN, NBC and ABC. Kristy has been a speaker and panelist at numerous conferences across the country, and has addressed congress about the gaps in military mental health challenges facing military and veteran family members. The Code of Support Foundation (COSF) provides essential and critical one-on-one assistance to those struggling service members, veterans and their families (SMVF) who have the most complex needs. We are dedicated to leveraging the nation's full spectrum of resources to ensure all members of our military, veterans and their families receive the support services they need and, through their collective sacrifice, have earned.

We were lucky to get David Humphries in the studio today -- he's not traveling to all corners of the earth facilitating community-based education and development right now. We had a great conversation that goes from Kenya to Colombia to Liberia and connects the dots between vastly different communities to find a common thread of success. We've heard this from previous guests on Through the Noise: development specialists widely recognize the crucial need to involve the local community in education and health-transformation efforts. Even if your organization has a wildly different focus, there's still much to learn that can be widely applied across all fields. Don't miss this conversation or David's melodic Scottish accent today on Through the Noise. David Humphries is Vice President for Communications & Public Affairs at Global Communities, where he oversees all aspects of outreach from branding to media and government relations across 25 countries. David has lived and worked in the USA, Japan and the UK, is a prize-winning playwright, a 2011 Aspen Ideas Scholar, and a 2013 recipient of PR Week's 40 Under 40 award. Global Communities is an international non-profit organization that works closely with communities worldwide to bring about sustainable changes that improve the lives and livelihoods of the vulnerable.

On Through the Noise, we often explore the value of collaboration between individuals and organizations and today we sit down with Burt Edwards whose work with InterAction facilitates collaboration between organizations with similar goals. Operating from the idea that organizations are more successful when working together, InterAction is something of a clearinghouse of information for those working in the fields of international development, sustainability, and humanitarian assistance. We'll examine the role of the media and journalists and how to respond effectively to catastrophes without simply being reactive. Burt joined InterAction in July 2014 and brings over 18 years of experience designing successful strategies to help shape public opinion and influence decision makers on key policy issues from climate change to international conflict. InterAction is an alliance organization in Washington, D.C. of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Our 180-plus members work around the world. What unites us is a commitment to working with the world's poor and vulnerable, and a belief that we can make the world a more peaceful, just and prosperous place – together.

John Porter, today's guest, has been named a Living Legend of Alexandria and has contributed to the success of the community his entire life. He first worked in Alexandria Public Schools as a teacher and was later principal of TC Williams for 22 years. He's well-known around Alexandria and is now helping his hometown in a different manner. As Executive Director of ACT for Alexandria, he helps fund and support other important organizations doing essential work in Alexandria and elsewhere. Last year alone, they helped 130 nonprofits raise money. Maybe they can help you too... John retired from the Alexandria City Public Schools in 2009 after a distinguished career with the Alexandria City Public Schools, which was highlighted by his twenty-two year tenure as principal of T. C. Williams High School of Remember the Titans movie fame. After retirement, John continued his work in Alexandria and is presently serving as president and CEO of ACT for Alexandria, Alexandria's community foundation. ACT's mission is to increase the level and effectiveness of giving and engagement in Alexandria.

Housing insecurity is one of the greatest problems facing millions of Americans today and the lack of safe, quality, affordable housing invites a host of other problems that can affect one's health as well as limit access to employment and healthy food. Fortunately there are many creative and thoughtful people working on this and we have one of them in the studio today. John Paukstis of Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland joins us for a conversation about the unique approach Habitat takes to tackling the problem of housing and how they involve businesses and community members in the solutions. With a massive volunteer base through Habitat for Humanity International, the organization has turned affordable housing on its head. Can you guess how many defaults the Maryland affiliate has faced since they got into the business in 1982? 50? 100? 500? John has served as Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland since 2006. Originally from the South Side of Chicago where he worked in a family owned printing business prior to assuming executive roles at Safeguard Business Systems and becoming CEO of McBee Systems, Inc., a manufacturer of accounting forms, payroll services, and the development of digital printing in partnership with the Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel. As well, he was the facilitator of CEO Roundtable groups in Philadelphia and strategic planning throughout the U.S. John owned and operated building construction businesses in Florida prior to relocating to Maryland. Habitat sells homes to working people in certain income ranges. Habitat provides a long-term zero interest mortgage to qualified families.

Ever wondered where your money is going? Looking through your books at the end of the quarter or end of the year to discover that all your hard-raised money has evaporated into unforeseen costs? This is a common problem for nonprofits who have yet to figure out the difference between direct and indirect costs and how to accurately anticipate and budget for them. If your organization has struggled with these issues before, you won't want to miss this episode with Cathy Galbraith and Nicolie Lettini of CostTree, a software that tackles these issues so you never have to guess again. Getting a firm grasp on these elements will help you sleep better at night and, who knows? Maybe you'll be able to allocate some money for that raise... Overhead on the mind of most nonprofit leaders these days. The new Uniform Guidance, which pulls together eight different OMB circulars, has changed the way federally funded nonprofits get reimbursed for their indirect costs (overhead). For more than 16 years, CostTree's CEO, Nicolie Lettini, has created cost allocation plans and indirect cost rate proposals (ICRP) for government agencies. Now she is bringing that experience to the nonprofit world. According to Lettini, "It's time to stop starving nonprofits and allow them to achieve their true impact. It starts with reimbursing them for their true costs," Cathy Galbraith, Director of Nonprofits, focuses on educating and training nonprofits about cost allocation and cost rates. Her mission is to help nonprofits understand how to create an indirect cost rate, how to use it in everyday strategic development and how to ensure organizational accountability and sustainability. CostTree is a cloud-based cost allocation software that simplifies the process of creating an indirect cost rate and allows for maximum transparency.

Does your branding say what you think it's saying? Today's guest, Danielle Baron of ABET, reveals the problems her organization faced when undertaking a rebranding. As she explains, if you asked 200 people what ABET meant, you could get 200 different answers. By undertaking a massive survey and hiring outside consultants for the rebranding, they were able to craft a uniform message that is direct, easy to remember, and a call to action. Has your organization struggled to project a single idea? Have you lost potential supporters because inconsistent branding left your message muddled? Do you know? Don't miss this episode. Danielle Duran Baron is the Senior Director for Global Communications and Marketing at ABET, the global accreditor of college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering and engineering technology at the associate, bachelor and master degree levels. In her current role, she has led the organization through a massive rebranding initiative to help position ABET as forward-thinking global organization and to align it more closely with the sectors it represents. With ABET accreditation, students, employers, and the society we serve can be confident that a program meets the quality standards that produce graduates prepared to enter a global workforce.

Today's episode is a little different. We're joined by Mehdi Sadaghdar, star of the popular YouTube series, ElectroBOOM. Videos on ElectroBOOM receive hundreds of thousands, if not millions of views, and the success of the series could be a lesson in communication for nonprofits and other organization. ElectroBOOM is valuable and popular, not just for the fascinating and funny way that Mehdi Sadaghdar demonstrates the principles of electrical engineering, but also because of his personality and willingness to show and laugh through failure. Is YouTube a medium that could advance your mission and attract more supporters? I am an Iranian Canadian Engineer at day, and a youtuber at night. I was not born in Canada! Electroboom is dedicated to entertain and somewhat educate at the same time.

The folks at 501cTech describes themselves as "the people who help the people who help the people," and today we sit down with Todd Peterson who runs their Client Services division. Are you storing sensitive data on an Excel spreadsheet or flash drive? It's time to modernize. No matter how many staff an organization has, it will require IT services and 501cTech provides a full-range of services to nonprofits. While providing help-desk and other services to over 70 clients across the DC region, one question comes up again and again. Can you guess the most pressing question? To find the answer and how you could improve the performance of your own organization, don't miss today's episode. As 501cTECH's VP, Client Relations, Todd oversees account management and new client acquisition. Previously, he managed 501cTECH's service desk, network administration procedure and staff—doing everything from developing high-level IT strategy for clients, to managing 501cTECH technical personnel and client projects. 501cTECH, formerly known as NPower Greater DC and previously Technology Works for Good, was created in 1999 by our region's philanthropic and business leaders to serve as a trusted source for the nonprofit community in the critical area of information technology.