Missions to Movements How Surfrider Foundation's CEO, Chad Nelsen Amplifies Impact Through Thought Leadership (From TEDx, Podcasts, Social Media & More)
Get ready to explore the vibrant world of ocean and beach conservation! Chad Nelsen, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation, leads one of the most impactful environmental nonprofit organizations.
Today, Chad shares his 27+ years of turning surfing culture into a powerful force for environmental stewardship, now with over 200 chapters and thousands of volunteers.
You’ll hear everything from how Surfrider aligned corporate partnerships with brands like Alaska Airlines, GoPro, and Pinterest, and how advanced technologies like Fundraise Up are helping them revolutionize their donor retention and monthly giving.
Chad’s mission-driven leadership led him to a life-changing speaking opportunity with TEDx, and he shares how he prepared for his 11-minute talk and WHY he hired a storytelling coach.
Using platforms like LinkedIn and the newly trending Bluesky, Chad also highlights how Surfrider has tapped into cultural moments to amplify its brand identity and impact.
Resources & Links
Learn more about Surfrider Foundation on their website and connect with Chad on LinkedIn or Bluesky.
Check out Chad’s TEDx talk, How To Scale Community-Led Advocacy.
This show is brought to you by GivingTuesday! GivingTuesday is a global generosity movement that started in 2012 with a simple idea: a day to do good.
This year, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, join the conversation: share your favorite nonprofit’s campaign, volunteer for a cause you care about, share an act of kindness, or encourage your audience to do the same.
Use #GivingTuesday, tag @GivingTuesday, and visit GivingTuesday.org/Participate to get involved and inspire others!
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