E62: Turning Personal Loss Into Community Impact with Susan Combs from Pancakes for Roger

Lead with Heart | Philanthropy, Nonprofit Leadership, Nonprofit Management & Fundraising

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Today’s guest is Susan Combs - the founder of the nonprofit organization Pancakes for Roger. Her journey began with a heartfelt tribute to her father, Major General Roger Combs, a Vietnam War veteran who battled throat cancer due to Agent Orange exposure.
From a simple wish for pancakes to a nationwide movement, Susan has turned a personal loss into a mission of giving back to the brave men and women who serve our country. Her innovative approach to fundraising and community engagement has propelled Pancakes for Roger to incredible heights, making a tangible difference in the lives of veterans.
I’m honored that she is sharing her story with us today.
In this episode:

• [02:34] The emotional journey that led Susan to create Pancakes for Rogers
• [07:51] Overcoming the challenges that accompany grief
• [12:25] How to navigate difficult conversations
• [17:21] The differences between starting a nonprofit and a for-profit organization
• [21:12] Using social media to create a sense of community
• [24:52] Upcoming initiatives for Pancakes for Roger

RESOURCES
Pancakes for Roger: A Mentorship Guide for Slaying Dragons by Susan Combs

CONNECT WITH SUSAN
LinkedIn: Susan L Combs
Instagram: @combsandcompany and @pancakesforroger
Website: pancakesforroger.org

My book, Sow, Grow, Lead is live on Amazon! It shares my journey of starting a nonprofit in Malawi and offers practical strategies to help nonprofit leaders turn visions into reality, and create meaningful impact

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CONNECT WITH HALEY
Haley is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Stress Management Coach, and EmC trainer. She founded The Savvy Fundraiser, a nonprofit consulting and coaching business, and has experience with nonprofits in human services, homelessness, and youth sectors. Specializing in EmC, leadership, board development, and fundraising, Haley is dedicated to empowering nonprofit leaders to create thriving organizations.
Instagram: @thesavvyfundraiser
LinkedIn: Haley Cooper, CFRE
Website: thesavvyfundraiser.com
Produced by Ideablossoms