Navigating Leadership and Change: A Conversation with Michael Braithwaite
Release Date: 04/30/2025
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info_outlineIntroduction
Michael Braithwaite has over 30 years of experience creating innovative solutions to better support vulnerable people. Michael joined Blue Door in March of 2019 as CEO and has since helped launch Blue Door’s first employment social enterprise called Construct, three supportive housing programs including the first safe space for 2SLGBTQ+ youth in York Region, a national housing and homelessness podcast, a merger with Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold, and is currently executing a Solutions Lab in collaboration with SHS Consulting and Habitat for Humanity to explore the journey from homelessness to homeownership.
Previously Michael worked at Raising the Roof and 360kids in York Region. As CEO of the national organization Raising the Roof, Michael launched Reside, a program to transform underutilized properties into affordable housing by engaging the social enterprise Building Up.
As Executive Director at 360kids, Michael lead the development of several innovative and collaborative initiatives including the development of the new Youth Hub, an Anti-Human Trafficking Program, the first Nightstop Housing Program in Canada, and in partnership with the York Region District School Board developed iGrad a classroom-based program whereby a teacher uses an e-learning platform to help youth complete high school.
Summary
In this episode of the Cause Leadership Podcast, Dave Hutchinson interviews Michael Braithwaite, the Chief Executive Officer of Blue Door, an organization focused on addressing homelessness and related issues in the North Toronto area. They discuss the challenges and uncertainties faced by nonprofit leaders, the importance of mentorship and governance, and the need for effective succession planning. Michael shares insights on investing in people, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the qualities that make effective leaders. The conversation also highlights Blue Door's innovative programs aimed at tackling homelessness and engaging communities in the trades, as well as the importance of long-term solutions to social issues.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Michael Braithwaite and Blue Door
03:03 Navigating Uncertainty in Nonprofit Leadership
06:22 Mentorship and Support for Emerging Leaders
09:00 The Importance of Succession Planning
12:13 Investing in People and Professional Growth
15:15 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Leadership
18:09 Qualities of Effective Leaders
21:08 Understanding Blue Door's Mission and Impact
28:09 Addressing Homelessness: Long-Term Solutions
30:12 The Importance of Skilled Trades
35:24 Success Stories in the Construct Program
38:51 Supporting Blue Door: How to Get Involved
41:50 Innovative Fundraising and Community Engagement
Connecting with Michael: