Best The Bonnell Foundation Podcasts (2025)

1
Nonprofit Branding: Why a Tangled Brand Could Be Holding You Back - Lyn Wiseman, KidGlov 26:38

Play Pause

9d ago26:38

26:38

You might not see it happening, but a tangled, unclear brand could be quietly holding your nonprofit back. Supporters don’t connect. Volunteers lose steam. Fundraising feels harder than it should. So what role should leadership play in bringing clarity back to your message? What conversations need to happen to bring leadership and teams together? A…

1
Singing, Acting and Advocacy: It's in Julia Rae's DNA! 39:44

14d ago39:44

39:44

“I always say that singing and performing was as much a part of my DNA as cystic fibrosis.” Julia Rae From the moment Julia Rae could speak, she was singing, and from the moment she could dream, she was already imagining a bigger stage. As her mother fondly recalls, at just two years old, Julia was watching Barney on TV and asked, “How do I get in …

1
Sophie Holmes: 36 marathons in 36 days 36:59

25d ago36:59

36:59

Never Just Surviving: Sophie Holmes on Running 36 Marathons with Cystic Fibrosis Despite a schedule packed with training, advocacy, and breaking world records, Sophie Holmes of the U.K. always makes time to share her story, and we’re so grateful she did. Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just four months old, Sophie was told she might not live past…

1
Advocacy in Action: From the Front Lines 52:28

1M ago52:28

52:28

“It’s an honor to be an advocate,” says Laura Bonnell, founder of The Bonnell Foundation. “We are the government—people are. If we don’t fight for fair laws that help the people they’re meant to serve, who will?” In this episode, Laura is joined by five passionate advocates—some seasoned, some new—who recently traveled to Washington, DC, to meet wi…

1
Donor Retention: How to Maximize Donor Retention and Overcome the Loss of Recurring Givers - James Misner, The Kipos Group 26:45

2M ago26:45

26:45

Recurring donors are the backbone of sustainable fundraising, but keeping them isn’t always easy. From inconsistent communication to a lack of personal connection, there are small missteps that can lead to big losses over time. So, why do recurring donors stop giving? How can you create an experience that keeps supporters engaged? And what practica…

1
The power of yes: it saves lives (Mike Walters and Jason Vandiver) 47:00

2M ago47:00

47:00

We have a powerful conversation about dedication, innovation, and impact in the cystic fibrosis community in this podcast. I’m joined by two incredible guests from MVW Nutritionals: Mike Walters and Jason Vandiver. Mike Walters is a true pioneer in pharmaceutical business and innovation, with nearly four decades of experience. He began his career a…

1
How to provide lung health everyday 40:53

2M ago40:53

40:53

Substack is where I discovered Dr. MeiLan Han! I was browsing through and was pleasantly surprised to read an article, and learn that she wrote a book called, Breathing Lessons. And to top it off, she’s from my home state of Michigan. I also learned the Dr. Han’s book was “a passion project during the pandemic.” I’m delighted to share a conversatio…

1
Personalized Mission: The Rosenau Family Foundation story 34:10

3M ago34:10

34:10

"Oh, the people you’ll meet, and the places you’ll go..." That classic Dr. Seuss line couldn’t have been more true when I found myself at a rare disease conference, taking with Dr. Gabriel Cohn. A quiet presence with a resume that reads like a roadmap through the last 30 years of rare disease breakthroughs, Dr. Cohn is the kind of person who remind…

1
Nonprofit Marketing: Why Video Storytelling for Nonprofits Works and How to Do It Well - Pat Taggart, SkyBlue Creative 29:47

3M ago29:47

29:47

Every nonprofit has powerful stories to tell, stories that invite people in, build empathy, and fuel generosity. Video storytelling unlocks a uniquely human way to bring those stories to life and deepen connections with supporters. But doing it well, especially with limited resources, can feel overwhelming. So, how can your organization create auth…

1
Costco to Connection: Magazine to Mic with Michelle Glogovac 47:44

3M ago47:44

47:44

From Costco to Connection: Podcast Advice That Changed Everything When I spotted a feature on podcasting in The Costco Connection, I was excited. When I saw Michelle Glogovac featured? I knew I had to reach out. That decision turned into one of the best moves I’ve made for growing my podcast. Michelle, THE Podcast Matchmaker®, publicist, and author…

1
Nonprofit Growth: Why Seeing Nonprofits As Corporations Is Important For Change and Growth - Laura Bonnell, The Bonnell Foundation 26:51

3M ago26:51

26:51

In today's nonprofit landscape, success goes beyond merely passion. It requires strategic planning, solid financial management, and a mindset that treats the organization like a thriving business. Nonprofits need to view themselves as more than just mission-driven. They must adopt corporate best practices to grow, sustain, and scale their impact. B…

1
Voices of Care: A Live and Unfiltered Conversation 1:16:39

3M ago1:16:39

1:16:39

Live from Mix and Mingle Education Day: A Powerful Conversation with Caregivers In this deeply moving live episode recorded at the Mix and Mingle Education Day, we brought together a powerful group of caregivers—grandparents, parents, stepparents, dads, and friends—for a heartfelt discussion about the emotional journey of caring for a loved one wit…

1
Obesity in CF: A New Challenge in a Healthier Future 38:12

3M ago38:12

38:12

Cystic Fibrosis and obesity? Until recently this has not been a topic of conversation for the CF community. The reason for obesity in the CF community is better health and longer lives, so the concern is now a reality. University of Michigan CF doctor, Carey Lumeng is researching the issue. As he says in this podcast, researchers have a lot to lear…

1
70 years strong: The Luanne McKinnon story. 1:03:30

4M ago1:03:30

1:03:30

A 70-year-old person with cystic fibrosis. It’s a phrase that wasn’t just uncommon a few decades ago—it was virtually unheard of. When Luanne McKinnon was diagnosed in 1969 at just 13 years old, doctors told her parents she might live to be 19 years old. Today, Luanne stands on the edge of her 70th birthday—a milestone that not only redefines possi…

1
Live Fearlessly: Jacob Venditti 31:54

4M ago31:54

31:54

Eight miles. Two friends. One cause. This episode now holds even deeper meaning. Jacob Venditti, who has since passed away from complications of cystic fibrosis (August 16th 2025), shares his story with a raw honesty that feels like a gift. He opens up about life with CF, the daily challenges he faced as he prepared for a lung transplant, and the v…

1
Nonprofit Board: How to Build a Diverse, High-Impact Board of Directors - Chief Joe Allio and General Maryanne Miller, Leaven Kids 40:19

4M ago40:19

40:19

Building a diverse, high-impact board isn’t just the right thing to do. It’s one of the most strategic moves a nonprofit can make. When your board reflects a range of perspectives, skills, and lived experiences, your organization is better equipped to lead with purpose and connect with the communities you serve. But how do you find the right people…

1
From Bulky to Breakthrough: The Future of Airway Clearance 27:37

4M ago27:37

27:37

From Clunky to Cutting-Edge: The Evolution of Airway Clearance with Nicole Dunn When our daughters first received their vest machines, they felt like they weighed a hundred pounds and had to be plugged into the wall. The vests didn’t fit well—riding high in the armpits and leaving much to be desired in comfort and function. Fast forward 25 years, a…

1
Milestones, Medicine, and the CF Community with Siri Vaeth 53:36

5M ago53:36

53:36

CFRI’s Executive Director, Siri Vaeth is sunshine to me. She’s a dear friend. We met after Siri took on her role with the Cystic Fibrosis Research Institute. I consider Siri a dear friend, and a mentor. Siri is truly among the smartest people I know. She is an advocate for her daughter Tess, who has CF, and is an incredible advocate for the CF comm…

1
Nonprofit Funding: Why Nonprofits Need to Build Diverse Revenue Streams for Sustainability - Ciara Byrne, Green Our Planet 31:05

5M ago31:05

31:05

What if the funding your nonprofit relies on suddenly disappears? Too many organizations face this risk by depending on a single revenue source. Diversifying revenue streams not only safeguards financial stability but also opens the door to growth and innovation. So, what are the best ways to expand and balance revenue streams while staying mission…

1
Aaron Trumm: living his best life! 45:23

5M ago45:23

45:23

I love that I was able to bump into Aaron Trumm via an email. He reached out to check in about our scholarship program for college. We only award grants to undergrad students, but I was intrigued by all I learned about him. Aaron has CF, he is post-transplant, he started a recording label, he plays the piano and wraps, And he worked with the man kn…

1
Nonprofit Branding: How to Build a Strong Brand That Inspires and Drives Impact - Howard Adam Levy, Red Rooster Group 54:45

6M ago54:45

54:45

In today’s nonprofit world, building a meaningful connection with supporters requires more than just good intentions. It takes a brand that tells a compelling story. A nonprofit’s brand isn’t just a logo, but a representation of its mission, vision, and the change it’s working to achieve. But how can organizations ensure their brand cuts through th…

1
Bob Coughlin, CF Dad: from Congress to Science 45:50

6M ago45:50

45:50

CF Dad Bob Coughlin see's a cure in the future for his son, and all of our kids. His high energy in this podcast is contagious. In this conversation, Laura Bonnell and Bob Coughlin discuss the journey of Bob's son, Bobby, who has cystic fibrosis. They explore the advancements in treatment, the importance of advocacy, and the intersection of policy …

1
Michael Armstrong, wise beyond his years 26:45

6M ago26:45

26:45

Michael Armstrong is a 25-year-old pre-law student. He loves to read, paint, play card games and video games. He was diagnosed with CF as an infant. We’re going to talk about his CF journey and how life took a turn when he was being evaluated for a lung transplant in 2023 and 2024. Michael was featured in the 2025 Portraits of cystic fibrosis calen…

1
Social Enterprise Nonprofit: Market-Driven Strategies for Mission Success - Dan Rhoton, Hopeworks 25:13

6M ago25:13

25:13

Some nonprofits go beyond relying on donations and grants by generating their own revenue while still driving meaningful social change. Social enterprise nonprofits blend business strategies with social impact, creating a sustainable approach to mission-driven work. But balancing financial sustainability with a nonprofit mission isn’t easy. How do …

1
Life after the death of a child to CF 42:53

7M ago42:53

42:53

If you lose a child to CF, what does that do to parents? To their identity? And their place in the CF community. These are hard discussions to have, but for a couple years now Peggy Hawkins has want to share her story on this podcast. Peggy talks about the toll waiting for a transplant takes on a family. One of the issues was that one of them alway…

1
How AI Can Empower Nonprofit Organizations to Achieve Their Missions More Effectively - Albert Chen, Anago 46:14

7M ago46:14

46:14

Artificial intelligence is transforming industries, but what does it mean for the nonprofit sector? From streamlining processes to improving donor engagement, AI for nonprofits has the potential to revolutionize how organizations operate. So, how can nonprofits get started with AI, and what steps can they take to approach this technology practicall…

1
Advocate, Amanda Boone 1:05:19

7M ago1:05:19

1:05:19

Saving yourself by way of advocacy. Living with cystic fibrosis podcast host, Laura Bonnell talks to CF advocate, Amanda Boone about the fight that grew from a threat to her medications in Colorado. Amanda has led the way against the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB). Amanda, who has CF, was struggling prior to 2019 because her health wa…

1
BreatheStrong CF 44:09

7M ago44:09

44:09

I have known Becky Penuel for many years. Becky used to run Miles for cystic fibrosis and then merged her nonprofit with Brian Callanan’s nonprofit, CF Life Fitness. After the merger, the nonprofit name is now: BreatheStrong. Becky is the Executive Director and was not able to join us today but, her Director of Operations is with us . Shawna Gray i…

1
NonProfit Spot, Heather Carmona 38:25

8M ago38:25

38:25

The NonProfit Spot: a wealth of resources and classes about how to grow your board, fundraise and make strategic decisions that will change the trajectory of your Foundation for the better. They have an excellent newsletter too. Heather Carmona, the Managing Director (and co-founder) of NonProfit Spot is a great friend and I am honored to share all…

1
Rare Disease Diversity, Jenifer Waldrop 34:48

8M ago34:48

34:48

I encourage everyone to attend conferences when you can. I meet the most interesting experts in the field of the nonprofit world. From scientists, to pharma, to other nonprofit execs like me. I was thrilled to meet Jenifer Waldrop. She joined the Black Women’s Health Imperative as the Executive Director of the Rare Disease Diversity Coalition (RDDC…

1
Melissa Yeager, Claire's Place Foundation 44:58

9M ago44:58

44:58

Melissa Yeager, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Claire’s Place Foundation Since the planning stages of Claire’s Place Foundation, Melissa has spent countless hours working for the cause and, of course, raising her two children, Claire (the foundation’s namesake) and Ellie. With many years’ experience in project management and event planning, s…

1
Rock Star, Emily Schaller: one on one. 30:39

9M ago30:39

30:39

Emily Schaller, 42, is a heroine with one goal in mind, to Rock CF. A lot of laughs on this podcast with my friend Emily! She talks about her health, the Foundation, new and old legislation and what's coming up in 2025! Equal parts spark, wit and humor, Emily is claiming her victories against cystic fibrosis having launched the Rock CF Foundation i…

1
Healthcare funds you could be eligible to get, but probably don't know about. 35:39

9M ago35:39

35:39

“Charity Care is the best kept secret in healthcare.” says Eli Rushbanks "Only 29 percent of the people who should be helped by 340B, are helped." If, like me, you have not heard about Charity Care or Dollar For, I am glad you're here! This podcast will tell you about both Charity Care and the nonprofit, Dollar For. I learned about the program duri…

1
Rare Disease Ph.D. Beth Vanstone and Laura Bonnell 27:39

9M ago27:39

27:39

Are titles important? As a rare disease parent, we think you're worthy of a Ph.D. Listen to our fun conversation about all things rare and the much needed title we may need (or not) to get things done. As a reminder, Beth Vanstone is the mother of two daughters, one who has CF. Madi is 23 years old. Beth is a huge advocate in Canada, and much of th…

1
How to Scale a Nonprofit: Strategies for Expanding Your Local Model - Elana Frank, Jewish Fertility Foundation 27:22

9M ago27:22

27:22

Expanding a nonprofit from a local focus to a broader regional or national presence is a bold move that comes with many challenges. From maintaining core values to adapting programs for new communities, nonprofits must navigate complex decisions to ensure successful growth. So how can nonprofits ensure their mission remains intact as they expand? A…

1
Private Patient Advocate offers you help 31:46

10M ago31:46

31:46

What is a Private Patient Advocate? Do you need one? Laura talks to Dr. Elena Borrelli who is a Doctor of Medical Science and a Board-Certified Patient Advocate who helps people and families with their health care journey. She practices in Shelby Township, Michigan. Dr. Borelli manages their healthcare as she tries to help them live their healthies…

1
Running a marathon with CF: Dylan Mortimer 35:10

10M ago35:10

35:10

Dylan Mortimer did the NYC Marathon. If you know him, you know that he had two double lung transplants. One in 2017 and one two years later in 2019. His second transplant was in NYC and Dylan talks about what it was like to go back to the streets he could barely walk, pre-transplant. It so touching as Dylan chairs his story with us. I appreciate al…

1
Nonprofit Community Collaboration: Increasing Impact Through Partnerships - Mark Lillis, Leaven Kids 34:05

10M ago34:05

34:05

Building a thriving nonprofit isn’t just about what happens within its walls. It’s rooted in the power of community collaboration. Community collaboration can drive significant impact, helping organizations expand their reach and foster long-lasting change. So, how can nonprofits find the right partners and cultivate meaningful relationships? And w…

1
Partnership to Improve Patient Care: legislation explained! 43:51

10M ago43:51

43:51

Patient rights: do you know about the rights you have in regard to healthcare? There is a lot of information for you that Sara and Thayer serve to you here, in terms you can understand. They both work for the Partnership to Improve Patient Care, or PIPC (a coalition). Sara Traigle van Geertruyden is the Executive Director at PIPC. Thayer Roberts is…

1
Heather Trammell: CF and finding your voice 37:53

10M ago37:53

37:53

Life with CF is different for everyone. We have a lot of the same challenges, but we do grow with the disease differently. Heather Trammell, CF Mom to 7 year old Charlie is married to Christopher, (for 13 years now). Heather is a legal assistant in the compliance department at Credit Acceptance. Heather has so much CF Mom wisdom. I am glad to call …

1
Touraj Manshadi falling through the gaps in health policy 36:41

11M ago36:41

36:41

We’re in Canada for this podcast. Canadian Advocate Beth Vanstone has two daughters, one with CF and she’s hosting this podcast with Laura Bonnell. Beth is introducing us to 32-year-old To Touraj Dehghan Manshadi who has a CF mutation that is common to Iran, but rare in Canada where he lives. You may be surprised to learn Canada does not have a rar…

1
CURE FOUND MSU EXPANDS TO UM 39:10

11M ago39:10

39:10

I always tell this group of undergrad students that they are our future, and that makes the future look bright. Atef Choudhury and Naim Mashni are incredible people and students. They're both Seniors at Lyman Briggs College -- majoring in Human Biology. They're minor is in business and they're on the pre- med track. Atef and Naim are the co-founder…

1
How to Scale a Nonprofit: Tips to Successfully and Sustainably Scale Your Nonprofit - Sarah Silvestri and Tiferet Sprung, Executive Arm 35:53

11M ago35:53

35:53

Scaling a nonprofit isn’t just about getting bigger.It’s about increasing your impact while remaining aligned with your mission.So, what key steps should nonprofit leaders follow to scale their organization successfully? And how can they ensure this growth is sustainable, healthy, and true to their mission? Learn how to scale a nonprofit with pract…

1
Laura Bonnell - From news reporting, to CF and beyond. 31:04

11M ago31:04

31:04

From news reporting, to CF and beyond. Laura talks about her journey. The Bonnell Foundation: Living with cystic fibrosis is 14 years old. "I was so hopeful all those years ago, that my Foundation would take off, and now look at it! We have helped CF families from Michigan to California with financial assistance, lung transplant grants and Educatio…

1
Sorcha's CF journey: from diagnosis to addiction and discovery 44:28

11M ago44:28

44:28

We discuss suicide in this podcast. This could be a trigger for some for you. Please remember the National Suicide Hotline can be reached via text or by calling 988. Sorcha Slyvester-Martin from diagnosis to drugs and discovery. When she was three days old, she was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. She says she had several near-death experiences. Her…

1
Nonprofit Culture: Using the Power of Play to Positively Shape Nonprofit Culture - Elizabeth Cushing, Playworks 21:28

12M ago21:28

21:28

Utilizing play is an effective tool to connect with people, and is a powerful way to build a healthy and vibrant nonprofit culture. When nonprofits incorporate play into their culture, they can boost creativity, improve morale, and drive productivity and innovation. So, how can nonprofits get started with implementing play into their culture, and w…

1
My brother and me! Rare, a bit of CF & COTA! 41:11

12M ago41:11

41:11

In this podcast you'll meet my brother Noah Teicher, and my nephew Colton Teicher. I have two younger brothers, but my brother Noah (the middle child) has two boys who had a rare disease. And we talk about their journey from having a rare disease to being cured. Noah and Colton talk about their journey with the Children’s Organ Transplant Associati…

1
Nonprofit Innovation: Embracing Innovation as a Discipline for Lasting Impact - Stewart Severino, The Navigators 29:56

1y ago29:56

29:56

Nonprofit innovation goes beyond simply adopting new technology or chasing trends; it’s about integrating a disciplined strategy across your organization. So, why should nonprofits embrace innovation as a strategic discipline, and how can this approach increase nonprofit impact? Discover why nonprofit innovation as a disciplined approach is crucial…

1
Nonprofit Sustainer Programs: How to Develop a Successful Monthly Giving Program - Stephen King, GrowthForce 25:01

1y ago25:01

25:01

A monthly giving program is a sustainable way to fundraise while building a community of loyal supporters for your nonprofit organization. It’s vital for ensuring long-term success and stability for your nonprofit. So, how can nonprofits effectively implement and grow the impact of monthly giving programs? Learn how to grow a monthly giving program…

1
Diary of a Dying Girl, Diane (Mallory) Shader Smith 27:26

1y ago27:26

27:26

Diane Shader Smith’s daughter Mallory died from complications of cystic fibrosis 6 years ago. She was 25 years old. Diane initially published her daughter’s diary, "Salt in My Soul". This book gave insight into how Mallory was feeling during her CF fight. Her deepest thoughts, and life lessons. Diane Shader Smith is now releasing a second book on b…