In this episode of the Unfiltered Nonprofit Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Elizabeth Fowler, the Executive Director of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS). For Elizabeth, running is more than just a way to stay in shape—it’s her go-to for clearing her mind, reflecting on decisions, and thinking through the big stuff. It’s no surprise she compares leadership to long-distance running: both require endurance, focus, and the grit to push through challenging moments.

Elizabeth’s journey to nonprofit leadership wasn’t a straight path. She started out in exercise science before moving into health policy consulting. A pivotal moment came when she chose to walk away from a role she loved because the leadership there wasn’t open to feedback. That experience shifted her approach—now, as a leader, she makes it a point to listen and collaborate. For her, it’s about creating harmony within the team, much like finding your rhythm during a long run.

At COS, Elizabeth has led initiatives that extend far beyond day-to-day operations. She’s launched a health fund aimed at supporting employees’ physical and mental well-being, working to make COS one of the top places to work in Ottawa. But, like running, leadership has its tough moments—Elizabeth has had to make difficult calls that affect the future of the organization, all while keeping her team motivated and supported.

In this episode, we explore how Elizabeth juggles the demands of leading a national nonprofit while staying grounded, both through her running and through the deliberate, thoughtful decisions that help move her organization forward. It’s a conversation packed with insights for anyone trying to find their rhythm in leadership—or in life.

About OTUS Financial Solutions:

At OTUS Financial Solutions, we specialize in general accounting and CFO services for nonprofits and associations. With over 18 years of experience, we provide tailored solutions that help your organization grow and stay sustainable. We offer everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to big-picture financial planning, all designed to meet the unique needs of nonprofits like yours.

If you want to learn more about how we can support your nonprofit’s financial journey, visit our website or book a no-obligation 20-minute consultation with us today. Let’s make your accounting easier and help you reach your goals.

Click below to listen to the episode now!

iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-unfiltered-non-profit-leaders-share-it-all/id1749147957

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3JNb1VTvPIncILczhZCgzQ

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/247b628f-f9df-42eb-84ef-ae1471ae24e3/the-unfiltered-non-profit-leaders-share-it-all

Audible: https://www.audible.ca/podcast/The-Unfiltered-Non-Profit-Leaders-Share-It-All/B0D5JP698Z

Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGtGUb4qhBg

Download as an MP3:  https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/20ea8b0c-3c2a-4ee6-b92d-9d3cd6b1f1f7/Elisabeth_Fowler_Full.mp3