Can small in-person storytelling circles drive big change in the nonprofit world? After her own experience with burnout, Jennifer DeCoste founded FireLoch as a place where her fellow burnt out peers in the nonprofit sector could rest and reconnect with their work. In this episode, Jennifer shares how untold stories catalyzed the creation of FireLoch, what kinds of storytelling feel most authentic to her, and why she’s prioritizing intimacy over scale.

00:30 Jennifer DeCoste's Journey and FireLoch's Mission
05:27 The Power of Speaking Up
06:53 Jennifer’s Burnout and Recovery Journey
10:18 FireLoch’s Funding Model - Who Supports Helping the Helpers
14:33 Adapting the Narrative for Government Grant Programs vs Philanthropists
16:01 Collecting Outcome Stories in an Authentic Trust-Forward Way
19:23 Collaboration and Partnership in Atlantic Canada
21:15 Small Group In-Person Storytelling: Prioritizing People Over Promotion
27:22 Evolving Language of Burnout, Wellness, and Success

Find out more about FireLoch

Website: fireloch.com
Facebook: facebook.com/fireloch
Instagram: instagram.com/fireloch
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/fireloch

About the Atlantic IMPACT podcast

Atlantic IMPACT is a podcast that helps nonprofits across Atlantic Canada use storytelling to drive fundraising and awareness. Each episode features conversations with people working in community, sharing how story supports connection, impact, and long-term growth. Whether you're part of a nonprofit or simply care about your community, this podcast invites you to listen, reflect, and engage.

Is your organization ready to tell its story? Take the free Storytelling Readiness Quiz at collaborativecause.ca/stories.

The podcast is hosted by Tanya Wall and Michelle Samson, and is produced by Storied Places Media.