Podcasts by Nonprofits Are Messy: Lessons in Leadership | Fundraising | Board Development | Communications

Ep 193: Is“Martyritis”Killing Your Organization? (with Kishshana Palmer) from 2023-12-02T15:00

In our sector, time often feels like a scarce resource. You're likely juggling countless tasks, believing that maximum productivity is the key to fulfilling your mission. But what if we're approach...

Ep 192: Embracing Our Finite Time (with Oliver Burkeman) from 2023-11-18T15:00

In our sector, time often feels like a scarce resource. You're likely juggling countless tasks, believing that maximum productivity is the key to fulfilling your mission. But what if we're approach...

Ep 191: How to Build Amazing Work Relationships (with Michael Bungay Stanier) from 2023-11-04T14:00

Great work relationships lead to greater job satisfaction and higher employee retention. Michael Bungay Stanier shares with us his recipe for designing our work relationships to thrive.

Ep 190: Nonprofits Turn Cities Into Communities (with Mayor Ras J. Baraka) from 2023-10-21T14:00

In this episode, Mayor Ras J. Baraka of Newark, NJ shed light on a beautiful partnership dance between city government and nonprofits. These organizations, he shared, often handle tasks the city ca...

Ep 189: Is a 5-Star Development Director a Needle in a Haystack? from 2023-10-07T14:00

Organizations often stay with a subpar development director because they don't believe they could get someone better. Let's explore this assumption.

Ep 188: Can A Teen Be Your Next Executive Director? (with Sarah Hernholm) from 2023-09-23T14:00

How do we ensure that the next generation of nonprofit leadership is prepared? Sarah Hernholm shares her groundbreaking work with WIT.

Ep 187: Don’t Be a Mission Creep! from 2023-09-09T14:00

Mission creep is a big problem for many nonprofits. Here’s some practical advice on how to prevent it.

Ep 186: Emotional Intelligence is the Key to Better Leadership (with Daniel Goleman) from 2023-08-26T14:00

How can we improve our emotional intelligence and become better leaders as a result? Daniel Goleman, author of"Emotional Intelligence", explains.

Ep 185 - The Surprising Impact of a Strong Organizational Value Statement (with Lindsay Hoffman) from 2023-07-29T14:00

Let's bring your organizational values to life in a tangible way. Join me and Lindsay Hoffman as we transform vague concepts into a potent value statement that drives your nonprofit's mission.

Ep 184: Nobody Told Me I’d Have to Fundraise! from 2023-07-15T14:00

Let’s unpack the truth about board fundraising expectations…

Ep 183: ​​The Nonprofit Superhero's Guide to Mindful Leadership (with Dan Harris) from 2023-06-17T14:00

Tune in as Dan Harris from 10% Happier and I explore meditation as a vital tool for mindful leadership, helping you control ego and anxiety for a greater impact.

Ep 182: Why Every Nonprofit Leader Needs a Coach (with Laura Zielke and Darien Heyman Rodriguez) from 2023-06-03T14:00

Nonprofit coaching can be transformative, but there are different styles as my guests Laura Zielke and Darien Heyman Rodriguez demonstrate in this compelling and actionable episode.

Ep 181: How Hybrid Meetings Can Be Remarkably Effective (with Priya Parker) from 2023-05-20T14:00

Tune in as Priya Parker uncovers the treasure within hybrid meetings and shares golden nuggets to transform your hybrid gatherings from'awkward'to'awesome'.

Ep 180: Tackling Internal Conflict–Strategies for Nonprofit Organizations (with Aarati Kasturirangan) from 2023-05-06T14:00

When fierce advocates clash, who you gonna call? Nonprofit internal conflict busters! Tune in to learn how Aarati Kasturirangan, Senior Partner and Managing Director of Dragonfly Partners, navigate...

Ep 179: Why is My Board SO Dysfunctional? (with Rob Acton) from 2023-04-22T14:00

Board dysfunction driving you bonkers? Join Rob Acton and me as we unravel the causes and offer practical solutions to get your nonprofit board of directors back on track!

Ep 178: My Foolproof Team-Building Icebreaker for Nonprofits from 2023-04-08T14:00

Enough with the bland icebreakers! Join me as I share a game-changing team-building icebreaker that will change your nonprofit's group dynamics for the better. Less cringing, more connection.

Ep 177: Building Vibrant Volunteer Communities: Tobi Johnson’s Guide to DEI and Empowerment (with Tobi Johnson) from 2023-03-25T18:06:59

Ready to transform your volunteer community? Join me and the queen of the power of volunteerism, Tobi Johnson, as we explore DEI strategies and share practical advice to help you build a diverse an...

Ep 176: Why the Nonprofit Sector Needs a Publicist from 2023-03-11T13:58:43

It can be frustrating to see people overlook the incredible impact of our organizations. We're constantly fighting against stereotypes and misconceptions, but I believe we can change the narrative ...

Ep 175: Are Crypto Donations the Future of Charitable Giving? (with Pat Duffy) from 2023-02-25T15:00

Crypto donations guru Pat Duffy shares his expert insights and debunks some of the myths around crypto donations. We discuss the benefits of accepting crypto donations, how to reach potential donor...

Ep 174: Creating a Board That Reflects the Needs of Your Community (with Whitley Richards) from 2023-02-11T20:24:53

In this episode, we discuss a critical topic for every nonprofit that wants to effectively serve their community: board composition.

Ep 173: Good Fortune, Celebrity Philanthropy, and the Quest to End Poverty (with Jessica Seinfeld) from 2023-01-30T03:25:44

What happens when purpose and celebrity status join forces? Join me as I sit down with Jessica Seinfeld — bestselling author, founder of the powerhouse nonprofit, Good+ Foundation, and wife of come...

Ep 172: How Public-Private Partnerships Create Real and Lasting Change (with Chelsea Peters) from 2023-01-14T15:00

Tune in as collaboration evangelist and Walton Family Foundation CSO, Chelsea Peters and I uncover the power of public-private partnerships. Spoiler alert: it's all about combining your superpowers!

Ep 171: True Confessions of a Nonprofit Volunteer (with Eileen Opatut) from 2022-12-17T15:00

A very special guest joins me in this episode to share her journey from burned out realtor to ignited volunteer. Tune in to learn how to find volunteer opportunities that fuel you.

Ep 170: The Top Nonprofit Sector Trends and Takeaways of 2022 (with Stacy Palmer) from 2022-12-03T15:00

What were your biggest takeaways from 2022? Tune in as Stacy Palmer, editor of the Chronicle of Philanthropy, and I discuss some of the nonprofit sector’s biggest headlines, trends, and takeaways o...

Ep 169: When Your ED Has a Low Appetite For Fundraising (with Kishshana Palmer) from 2022-11-12T15:00

Does your organization have an ED with a low appetite for fundraising? Tune in to learn how strengthening the partnership between your ED and development director can help!

Ep 168: Hamza Khan’s Recipe for Preventing Burnout (with Hamza Khan) from 2022-10-22T13:44:06

Feeling the heat lately? You are not alone… burnout impacts many of us in the nonprofit sector. Tune in to learn best-selling author and global keynote speaker, Hamza Khan’s strategies for preventi...

Ep 167: For the Love of Strategic Planning (with Robert Raben) from 2022-09-24T14:00

In this episode, my guest compares strategy to love — tune in as Robert Raben and I dig deep into the topic of nonprofit strategic planning and how the right approach can help promote diversity, eq...

Ep 166: Uncovering New Nonprofit Funding Sources (with Ann Mei Chang) from 2022-09-10T14:00

Are there nonprofit funding sources out there that are not being sufficiently taken advantage of? According to my guest, Candid CEO, Ann Mei Chang, the answer is yes. Tune in to learn more.

Ep 165: Eye-Opening Tales of a Board Nominations Committee Chair (with Daryl Messinger) from 2022-08-27T13:25:39

Getting the right people on your nonprofit board is no easy task. Tune in to this episode to learn how one nominations committee chair helped her org build the board of its dreams!

Ep 164: A 7-Step Succession Planning Process for Nonprofits from 2022-08-14T16:02:34

Want to leave your nonprofit in good hands even after you move on to your next adventure? Tune in to discover the 7 crucial steps to a successful succession planning process.

Ep 163: What It Takes to Be a Successful Director of Development (with Lori Abrams) from 2022-07-30T14:00

Join me for an eye-opening conversation about fundraising mistakes, fundraising anxiety, and what it actually takes to be a first-rate development director for your nonprofit.

Ep 162: Inside the Heart&Mind of a Program Officer (with Rebecca Cokley) from 2022-07-16T14:00:51

What does an ideal relationship between a program officer and a grantee actually look like? Experienced program officer, Rebecca Cokley, joins me in this episode to answer this frequently asked que...

Ep 161: Inclusion is About More Than Diversity (with Daisy Auger-Domínguez) from 2022-06-18T14:00:28

In this episode, author and Chief People Officer at Vice Media Group, Daisy Auger-Domínguez to talk about the best starting place for nonprofit leaders who want to dismantle racial inequity and fos...

Ep 160: Corporate Philanthropy and the Paul Newman Foundation (with Miriam Nelson) from 2022-06-04T14:00:06

In this episode, Miriam Nelson, CEO of the Newman Foundation, joins me to talk about corporate philanthropy, purpose-driven work, and shameless exploitation for the power of good…

Ep 159: Helping Veteran Volunteers Find Their Next Mission (with Art delaCruz) from 2022-05-21T14:00:56

My guest in this episode is Team Rubicon CEO, Art delaCruz. Listen in as we chat about the positive impact of volunteerism — particularly for military veterans.

Ep 158: 3 Big Trends That Are Altering the Nonprofit Sector (with Eric Nee) from 2022-05-07T14:00:33

Eric Nee, Editor in Chief of SSIR, joins me to talk about what’s going on in our world and how it impacts social change and the work nonprofit leaders do every single day.

Ep 157: How Equitable Technology Can Supercharge Your Mission (with Amy Ward and Afua Bruce) from 2022-04-23T14:22:17

Technology for nonprofits is often thought of as being external to the work that goes on inside the sector. In this episode, Amy Ward and Afua Bruce join me to talk about how equitable technology c...

Ep 156: How Leaders Can Promote Belonging In the Workplace (with Rhodes Perry) from 2022-04-09T14:00:37

In this episode, guest Rhodes Perry joins me touncover the role inclusive leaders play when it comes to building belonging cultures in the nonprofit workplace.

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Ep 155: A Once-In-A-Generation Opportunity to Shape the Future of Nonprofit Work (with Allison Fine and Beth Kanter) from 2022-03-26T14:00:35

What is smart technology? And what does it look like in the nonprofit sector? Beth Kanter and Allison Fine join me for a deep dive into human-centered software and how to use it ethically, respo...

Ep 154: The Nonprofit Business Model is Broken (with Vu Le) from 2022-03-12T15:00:34

What does the ideal nonprofit business model look like? Does it bear any resemblance to the model we have today? Listen in as guest Vu Le and I paint the picture of an evolved nonprofit sector.<...

Ep 153: Supervision vs. Management – What’s the Difference? (with guest Rita Sever) from 2022-02-26T15:00:34

Is there really a difference between leadership and management? And what about supervision and management? In this podcast, Rita Sever and I discuss why these skills are actually quite different...

Ep 152: Secrets of a High-Functioning Board of Directors (with Joan Garry) from 2022-02-12T15:00:47

There is no way your nonprofit organization can thrive without one — but do you know what a high-functioning board of directors actually looks like? Tune in to this episode to crack the code. Listen

Ep 151: Using Pop Culture for Social Good (with Noelani Pearl Hunt) from 2022-01-29T15:00:18

In this episode, my colleague, Noelani Pearl Hunt and I dig into the popular Netflix series, MAID, and how you can use pop culture as a tool for nonprofit storytelling and media advocacy.

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Ep 150: Reflection: How My White Privilege Affects My Leadership from 2022-01-15T15:00:16

In this episode, I reflect on how racial bias impacts the lack of leadership diversity in the nonprofit sector — and my own position as a nonprofit leader who benefits from white privilege.

Ep 149: Can We Fix the Nonprofit Burnout Problem? (with Chris Barlics) from 2022-01-08T15:00:52

In this episode, Health Coach and Personal Trainer, Chris Barlics, and I talk about something many nonprofit leaders put last on their to-do lists — self care. Listen in to learn how it can help...

Ep 148: Why Nonprofits Are Still Messy in 2021 (with Jim Axelrod) from 2021-12-25T15:00:26

It’s the one-year anniversary of the second edition of my book, Nonprofits Are Messy. Listen in as my friend and neighbor, CBS correspondent Jim Axelrod and I chat about my book, nonprofit fundr...

Ep 147: How Powerful Partnerships Drive Innovative Nonprofit Marketing (with Alison Moore) from 2021-12-11T15:00:37

In the digital age, it is nearly impossible to get the word out about your mission without a strategic nonprofit marketing plan. In this episode, Alison Moore, Chief Executive Officer of Comic R...

Ep 146: Why Unbecoming Is the Key to Innovative Leadership (with Kerri Hoffman) from 2021-11-13T15:00:21

In this episode, my guest Kerri Hoffman (CEO of the nonprofit media company, PRX) and I discuss what innovative leadership really looks like in the post-Covid nonprofit sector.

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Ep 145: How Tiny Habits Create Big Change (with BJ Fogg) from 2021-10-30T14:00:36

In this episode, I chat with Stanford professor and author, BJ Fogg about why creating tiny habits is the key to good habit formation and creating change.

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144: A Fresh Perspective on Inclusive Leadership (with Dr. Ella Bell Smith) from 2021-10-16T14:00:06

Inclusive leadership requires more than just attending DEI training and then integrating what you learn into your nonprofit org. Listen in as leadership and DEI consultant, Dr. Ella Bell Smith, ...

Ep 143: Lollipop Moments and Everyday Leadership Lessons (with Drew Dudley) from 2021-10-02T14:20:37

In this episode, everyday leadership expert and inspirational TED speaker, Drew Dudley joins me to share some of the most dangerous leadership lessons you should unlearn and their impact on the ...

Ep 142: How Kindness and Community Empower Today’s Nonprofit Leaders (with guest John Hoffman) from 2021-09-18T14:00:49

Join me and my friend and six-time Emmy winner,John Hoffman, as we discuss his 2020 documentary film, The Antidote, and the role of kindness in the work of today’s nonprofit leader and our socie...

Ep 141: Why So Many Nonprofit Fundraisers Struggle With Donor Stewardship (with Lisa Greer) from 2021-09-04T14:24:39

In this episode, I have an honest conversation about donor stewardship with five-star philanthropist, Lisa Greer. Listen in as we discuss some of the most common mistakes orgs make when it comes...

Ep 140: How to Attract, Develop, and Retain Top Nonprofit Talent (with Gali Cooks) from 2021-08-22T14:13:27

Filling positions in a nonprofit org can be a challenge. Here's how to get the right people in the right seats on the bus (not just butts in seats).

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Ep 139: Interpersonal Skills are Hard Work (with Carole Robin) from 2021-08-07T14:00:22

Nonprofit executive directors, join Joan Garry and award-winning Stanford professor, Carole Robin to learn how your interpersonal skills impact your org’s success.

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Ep 138: Joan’s Favorite Books for Nonprofit Leaders from 2021-07-24T14:00:33

In this episode, the tables turn. Cindy Pereira interviews Joan Garry on her favorite books for nonprofit leaders.

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Ep 137: Cryptocurrency and the Future of Donor Advised Funds (with Robbie Heeger) from 2021-06-26T14:00:14

More and more folks are donating to charity with cryptocurrency. Meanwhile, only a few large nonprofits have any idea what to do with it.

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Ep 136: Who’s Afraid to Return to the Office? (with Ellen LaPointe and Nick Turner) from 2021-06-12T14:00:09

As more and more of us are fully vaccinated, many are getting back into the physical work space. But what do we do when people are afraid to come to work?

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Ep 135: Building Resilience to Withstand a Disaster (with Nina Meehan) from 2021-05-29T14:00:21

Things were going great for Nina Meehan's theater organization. Then disaster struck. Learn how she overcame huge challenges to emerge stronger than ever.

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Ep 134: An Alternative to Strategic Planning (with Lindsay Hoffman) from 2021-05-15T14:00:17

Strategic planning, as a traditional process, can be costly, stressful, and deeply draining. Here’s a better alternative.

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Ep 133: Choosing the Right Nonprofit Business Model (with Rinku Sen) from 2021-05-01T14:00:33

Does it always make sense to organize as a 501c3? How do you decide whether you need a c3, c4 or even a for-profit LLC? What are the pros and cons?

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Ep 132: Let’s Make Program Evaluation Simpler (with Chari Smith) from 2021-04-17T14:00:25

One of the biggest achilles heels in the nonprofit sector is program evaluation. But it’s critical to funders. Let’s make it simpler.

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Ep 131: Becoming a Social Prophet (with Lynne Twist) from 2021-04-03T14:00:04

If you’re struggling with fundraising or having trouble getting people you know to open their hearts and pockets, listen for tips on how you can inspire others to become social prophets.

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Ep 130: A Powerful Approach to Keeping Remote Staff Motivated from 2021-03-20T14:00:04

How do we continue to motivate and appreciate our staff in times of prolonged crisis? It has been over a year since the world shut down due to the pandemic and it has been challenging to stay mo...

Ep 129: Finding the Right Leader For Your Org from 2021-03-06T15:00:55

An org is most vulnerable when the CEO decides to move on. In this episode, we discuss the right way to conduct a search for a new leader.

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Ep 128: Making Beautiful Music With Community-Driven Partnerships from 2021-02-20T15:00:11

Learn how Save the Music Foundation creates long-term renewable relationships that lead to multi-year investments from philanthropic funders.

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Ep 127: Building a Grassroots Movement From Scratch from 2021-02-06T15:00:02

In the year 2000, Donna Dees rallied hundreds of thousands of people to march on Washington. How did she build such a large grassroots movement from scratch in only 9 months?

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Ep 126: Creating 5-Star Special Events in the Virtual Age from 2021-01-23T15:00:13

How do you create a truly successful virtual event? My guests share with us how intimate a virtual event can actually be!

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Ep 125: What Will You Carry Into 2021? from 2021-01-09T15:00:10

As we close out a most devastating year, I’d like to offer you my own reflections on the things I am carrying into 2021.

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Ep 124: The 5 Giving Trends That Will Define Online Fundraising (with Scot Chisholm) from 2021-01-02T15:00:41

Where is online fundraising headed post-pandemic? Scot Chisholm, founder of fundraising software platform Classy, looks into his crystal ball and tells us what he sees.

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Ep 123: The Single Best Sign of a Healthy Nonprofit (with Carlos de la Rosa and Rosanne Siino) from 2020-12-19T15:00:46

Do you know the single best indicator of the health of a nonprofit? There is one KEY ingredient for a healthy nonprofit. And it’s even more important during a crisis. In this episode I talk with...

Ep 122: How to Use Artificial Intelligence to Improve Donor Retention (with Allison Fine and Beth Kanter) from 2020-12-05T15:00:01

This episode is about the role that AI is starting to play in transforming philanthropy by reducing rote tasks and fueling donor retention.

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Ep 121: Creating a 5-Star Board Retreat (with Dolph Goldenburg) from 2020-11-21T15:00:26

We discuss why boards matter, when to have a board retreat, how retreats have gone virtual, and what it takes to make a retreat a home run.

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Turn Your Impatience to Your Heroic Pursuits from 2020-11-05T17:24:47

I would like to encourage you to turn your impatience toward your heroic pursuits. After all, there’s a reason you become a nonprofit superhero.

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Ep 120: Raising the Next Generation of Nonprofit Leaders (with Charlotte Alter) from 2020-10-24T14:00:17

Boomers are aging out of nonprofit leadership in droves. Many started organizations post Vietnam and there is a huge impending leadership void in the sector that needs to be filled. Nonprofit bo...

Ep 119: Your First 90 Days as an Executive Director (with Michael Watkins) from 2020-10-10T14:00:12

There are steps can be taken to ensure success and begin the process of crafting your legacy as a leader, even BEFORE you take on a new role.

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Ep. 118: The Growing Charitable Movement That's Raised a Billion Dollars (with Sara Lomelin) from 2020-09-26T14:00:55

Giving circles have raised well over a BILLION dollars over the past 20 years. Learn how your org can tap into this growing movement.

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Ep 117: The Hunt for Great Board Members (with Robert Acton and Lalita Badinehal) from 2020-09-12T14:00:51

If you’ve ever had trouble finding great board members, or getting them ready to serve your organizations at a high level, you’ll want to listen to this episode.

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Ep 116: The Most Important Piece of Diversity Work: Belonging (with Neha Sampat) from 2020-08-29T14:00:53

My journey through the world is highly enriched by the diversity of folks around me.

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Ep 115: Taking Nonprofits From Good to Great – Part 2 (with Jim Collins) from 2020-08-15T14:00:25

In this episode, Jim Collins and I continue to explore the question of why some organizations thrive in uncertainty and chaos and others do not. Quite timely!

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Ep 114: What If Fundraising De-Emphasized the Donor? (with Vu Le and Michelle Muri) from 2020-08-01T14:00:23

There are those who believe that the donor-centric fundraising model may be perpetuating the very inequity we seek to address in the nonprofit sector.

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Ep 113: Taking Nonprofits From Good to Great - Part 1 (with Jim Collins) from 2020-07-18T14:00:39

My guest today, best selling author Jim Collins, literally wrote the book on how to navigate a path from good to great and I could not be more excited to have him on the podcast!

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Ep 112: What Foundations Are Thinking Right Now (with Caryl M. Stern) from 2020-07-04T14:00:14

So many nonprofits are struggling. Facing crises that are existential. I wanted to know what funders, especially foundations, are thinking at this time.

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Ep 111: Once Upon a Time There Was a Fundraiser Who… (with Dan Portnoy) from 2020-06-20T14:00:58

Just for a moment, imagine what it would mean for your organization if you could double your online fundraising next year.

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Ep 109: How to Have a Difficult Conversations - Part 2 from 2020-06-06T14:00:41

Accepting criticism is an important leadership skill. But how might we exercise that skill when it feels off base, unfair, or poorly delivered?

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Ep 109: How to Have a Difficult Conversation - Part 1 from 2020-05-23T14:00:53

How do you build the muscle to make sure difficult conversations go well? What might you not be aware of that could change everything?

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Ep 108: Starting a New CEO Job in the Heat of a Pandemic from 2020-05-09T14:00:42

Imagine you start a new CEO job at a wonderful nonprofit. And then a pandemic hits. Changes things just a bit, right? That's what happened to my guest.

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Ep 107: The Top 20 Attributes of an Outstanding Board from 2020-04-25T14:00:53

When you are looking to build an outstanding board think of it as a strategic casting call! Here are the top characteristics of an outstanding board and the ideal attributes of a board leader. Listen

Ep 106: Introducing Your Nonprofit Life (with Laura Zielke) from 2020-04-11T14:00:16

There is nothing like a good spinoff. Some of the best TV shows of all time found their origins in another show. And now there’s a spinoff of this podcast!

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Ep 105: Leadership in the Time of COVID-19 from 2020-03-28T14:00:34

Everyone contends with pervasive anxiety in different ways. I have five pieces of advice from me to all of you leaders and helpers out there. Stay safe!

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Ep 104: Creating a Nonprofit Communications Engine (with Sarah Durham) from 2020-03-14T14:00:13

Your nonprofit can probably do a better job of communicating to build engagement and inspire action. Sarah Durham is THE expert on this.

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Ep 103: Stronger Together: The Power of Cohort Learning (with Darlene Nipper) from 2020-03-02T12:42:35

The most valuable kind of leadership development happens in a cohort. And that’s what this episode is all about.

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Ep 102: Is Abuse of Power Epidemic in the Nonprofit Sector? (with Sarah Beaulieu and Kim Jones) from 2020-02-15T15:00:27

I wrote an article in the Chronicle of Philanthropy on this topic and got a tremendous response. It seems abuse of power may be rampant.

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Ep 101: Managing the Tension of Change (with Michael DePass) from 2020-02-01T15:00:54

while change can lead to growth, sometimes leaders fail to manage the tensions that growth brings, and this can cripple an organization’s impact.

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Ep 100: The Professional Interim Executive Director (with Margo Amgott) from 2020-01-18T15:00:43

When your Executive Director is actually the “Interim Executive Director,” it means something went wrong… right? Well, maybe not.

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Ep 99: What Visionaries Do Best (with Paul Rice) from 2020-01-04T15:00:03

What kind of person does it take to build a movement? What are the strategies that take something seemingly small and turn it into a global game changer?

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Ep 98: Movements are Like Relay Races (with Frances Kunreuther) from 2019-12-07T15:00

I’m thrilled to give voice to a passionate change agent who knows how to build a movement, Frances Kunreuther, Co-Director of the Building Movement Project.

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Ep 97: The Telltale Signs of Founder Syndrome (Part 2) with Rachael Gibson from 2019-11-16T15:00:04

The founder of your organization is leaving and you’re coming in as the new leader. How do you follow a founder and be successful?

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Ep 96: The Telltale Signs of Founder Syndrome (Part 1) with Rachael Gibson from 2019-11-02T14:00:02

A fascinating discussion about the remarkable nature of founders, founder syndrome, and how do you get a founder to leave.

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Ep 95: How Do We Ignite Our Volunteers? (with Tobi Johnson) from 2019-10-19T14:00:11

Volunteerism is both noble and necessary in our polarized world. But how do you ignite them and keep them engaged over the long term?

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Ep 94: Tales From the Trenches (with Darian Rodriguez Heyman) from 2019-10-05T14:00:28

From messes to remarkable victories, boards who step up to those missing in action; from bad days to the days you save someone’s life… we all have tales.

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Ep 93: Why Even a Good Executive Director Needs a Coach from 2019-09-21T14:00:21

Professional development for nonprofit leaders - luxury or necessity? In this podcast I talk about how maximizing impact requires an investment in support.

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Bonus Episode: Small But Mighty Nonprofits from 2019-09-14T14:00:07

Most folks are utterly clueless about the size and scope of the nonprofit sector. In fact it’s not really thought of as a sector.

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Ep 92: The Lonely Nonprofit Leader (with Glennda Testone) from 2019-09-07T14:00:35

You’ve probably heard of “Imposter Syndrome”. But have you heard of “Loneliness Syndrome”?

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Ep 91: The Diversity Problem in Our Sector (with Diahann Billings-Burford) from 2019-08-24T14:00:47

Nonprofits have a diversity problem. Big time. And I believe this is one of the most important issues facing the sector today.

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Ep 90: Why People Don’t Donate (and What You Can Do About It) (with Phil Buchanan) from 2019-08-10T14:00:12

There are so many people who want to make a difference and your nonprofit is a vehicle for them to do just that. So why can it be so hard to get people (or foundations) to open their checkbooks?...

Ep 89: Nonprofit Partnerships, Mergers, and Acquisitions (with Wendy Foster) from 2019-07-27T14:00:38

Find out how partnerships can succeed and when they might fail and learn the origin story of the successful partnership between Uber and Big Brothers and Big Sisters.

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Ep 88: Everything You Wanted to Know About Planned Giving (with Judi O’Kelley) from 2019-07-13T14:00:53

Planned giving can be a fantastic way for nonprofits to raise significant funds and can greatly benefit both the organization and the donor.

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Bonus Episode: Nonprofit Workspaces (Joan Garry on the“Dear HBR”Podcast) from 2019-07-01T13:00:39

Does standard work advice not apply to you because you’re at a nonprofit? In this episode of HBR's advice podcast, Dear HBR:, cohosts Alison Beard and Dan McGinn answer your questions with the h...

Ep 87: True Confessions of a Five Star Board Chair (with Daryl Messinger) from 2019-06-15T14:00:37

I have met many first rate board chairs and even had a few during my tenure as an Executive Director, but my guest today is the entire package.

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Ep 86: An Artful Approach to Social Media (with Robin Cembalest) from 2019-06-01T14:00:45

Learn how Robin Cembalest has built an enormous social media following and take away lessons that any nonprofit can implement.

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Ep 85: Managing Rapid Growth - the Story of charity: water (with Lauren Letta) from 2019-05-18T14:00:39

charity: water’s growth and impact has been nothing short of remarkable. Here’s the story of how they scaled their organization.

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Ep 84: Passion, Conflict, Diversity, and Leadership (with Parisa Parsa) from 2019-05-04T14:00:09

Are you read to develop the skills, and manage the conflict that accompanies passionate and diverse points of view? As a leader, this is critical!

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Ep 83: You’re Doing Meetings All Wrong (with Priya Parker) from 2019-04-20T14:30:41

Learn from my guest Priya Parker how to create super effective meetings, resolve tough conflicts, and throw killer dinner parties.

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Ep 82: Helping the Helpers from 2019-04-06T14:30:15

I get to work with thousands of amazing nonprofit leaders inside the Nonprofit Leadership Lab. Allow me to introduce a few of them to you.

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Ep 81: How to Grow a Movement and an"Army of the Engaged"(with Rashad Robinson) from 2019-03-23T14:00:28

In a polarized world, power to effect change comes from building an “army of the engaged”. Here's how my guest, Rashad Robinson, did just that.

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Ep 80: Why is Change So Hard? (with Lisa Lahey) from 2019-03-09T15:00:14

Nonprofits want to change the world in ways large and small. And yet, when it comes to bringing change into our own orgs, it’s really hard!

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Ep 79: How a Film Festival Impacts Community Building (with Evelyn Colbert) from 2019-02-23T15:30:11

Learn more about the birth of a film festival and the superpower of this type of non profit in building community.

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Ep 78: What Nonprofits Can Learn from Tech Start-ups (with Ann Mei) from 2019-02-09T15:30:14

Organizations of all kinds know they must innovate or die out. But this word causes nonprofit leaders to break out in cold sweats. Why?

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Ep 77: Navigating the Tension Between Development and Communications (with Steve Ralls) from 2019-01-26T15:00:11

Learn more about common tensions between Development and Communications and whether merging them under one umbrella works or muddies the water.

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Ep 76: The 4 Obstacles to a Diverse Board from 2019-01-12T15:00:56

I believe there are 4 primary obstacles to building a diverse board. In this episode, I explain what they are and I’ll tell you exactly how you can overcome them.

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Ep 75: What’s Your One Big 2019 Goal? from 2018-12-29T15:30:07

Name a big goal you have for the coming year. That’s what I asked more than a dozen nonprofit leaders. Here’s what they told me.

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Ep 74: Good People, Hidden Biases, and Navigating Your Blind Spots (with Anthony Greenwald) from 2018-12-15T15:30:07

You’re a nonprofit person, so you probably want to change hearts and minds, but your blind spots may be getting in the way.

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Ep 73: The Arc of a Successful Capital Campaign (with Eric Javier) from 2018-12-01T15:30:11

You need to make a huge leap in your nonprofit. And so you require a significant amount of money in a certain period of time. You may need a capital campaign.

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Ep 72: Successful Year End Fundraising (with Gail Perry) from 2018-11-17T15:30:56

We’ve reached prime-time giving season, and I have some good news. It’s absolutely not too late to exceed your goals, no matter where you currently are in your process.

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Ep 71: A Smart Nonprofit Budgeting Process (with Hilda Polanco) from 2018-11-03T14:30:21

Is your nonprofit budgeting process a royal pain or a living, breathing plan for your leaders to determine your organization’s priorities?

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Ep 70: Unicorns, Superheroes and Nonprofit Leaders (With Vu Le) from 2018-10-20T14:30:22

It’s a bird, it’s a plane… no, it’s a nonprofit leader. The work you do matters more than you know and more than anyone will ever tell you.

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Ep 69: New Power and the Building of Movements (with Henry Timms) from 2018-10-06T14:00:26

Giving Tuesday, #MeToo, the Ice Bucket Challenge, the out-of-nowhere victories of Obama and Trump… They all have something important in common – they were movements forged by “New Power”.

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Ep 68: No, You Can’t Do It All from 2018-09-22T14:30:28

How do you take care of yourself and still be responsible to your organization and the people you serve?

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Ep 67: Busting the Overhead Myth (with Dan Pallotta) from 2018-09-08T14:00:56

Donors won’t give to charities with “high overhead.” Right? But what structural problems does this cause? My guest, Dan Pallotta, busts the nonprofit overhead myth.

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Ep 66: When it’s Time to Leave Your Org (with Kate Kendell) from 2018-08-25T14:30:45

Why do Executive Directors sometimes overstay their roles? Inertia? Love of the job? A board that doesn’t want them to leave? How do you know when it’s time to go?

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Ep 65: The Case of the Serial Nonprofit Founder (with Robin Steinberg) from 2018-08-11T14:30:55

Nonprofit founders are superheroes. Robin Steinberg is certainly one. In fact, she keeps on creating new nonprofits! And she has a wealth of knowledge to share.

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Ep 64: Donors Who Know More, Give More (with Roxie Jerde) from 2018-07-28T14:30:57

How educated do you think most donors are about the organization they support and invest in? Not very. And this is a big problem we must solve.

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Ep 63: How To Think About Mergers and Collaborations (with Nadya Shmavonian) from 2018-07-14T14:30:01

Mergers can help nonprofits increase reach and impact, but they can also become a disaster. Here’s how to decide if you should go for it.

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Ep 62: Hiring the Perfect Executive Director (with Dara Klarfeld) from 2018-06-30T14:30:29

What is the secret sauce to finding and hiring the perfect ED for your organization? How can you become a “rockstar” candidate? Find out in today’s episode.

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Ep 61: How to Build a Smart Communications Plan (with Ben Wyskida) from 2018-06-16T14:00:01

In this episode, Ben Wyskida, CEO of Fenton Communications explains what you must do to build a successful communications plan for your nonprofit.

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Ep 60: Why Nonprofit Journalism Matters (with Christa Scharfenberg) from 2018-06-02T14:30:42

Nonprofit media fills an important gap. Local and regional newsrooms have been decimated and the expense of investigative journalism is very high. In this episode, Christa Scharfenberg, the acti...

Ep 59: Scaling Up Your Nonprofit (with Kathleen Kelly Janus) from 2018-05-19T14:30:47

Your nonprofit has hit a wall and you want to scale up. But how? Why do some organizations grow and others do not? In this episode, Kathleen demystifies the process for “biggie-sizing” your nonp...

Ep 58: Is It Time to Leave Facebook? (with Julia Campbell) from 2018-05-05T14:30:13

Facebook has broken trust with the public. Should your nonprofit think about leaving the platform? Learn how Cambridge Analytics purchased data from people who did not explicitly give permission...

Ep 57: You Can Do Hard Things from 2018-04-14T14:00:20

How can you run a nonprofit with so little staff? You want to make a difference with that budget? There is so much hard work to be done - surely you can’t do these hard things, can you? Guess wh...

Ep 56: Anatomy of a Crisis (with Emily Klehm) from 2018-04-07T14:00:19

When a major crisis hit – an employee had been mugged at gunpoint and a dog stolen – Emily Klehm stepped up big time as the leader of the South Suburban Humane Society. But she never could have ...

Ep 55: The Nonprofit Sector Has Serious Money Hangups (with Belinda Rosenblum) from 2018-03-31T14:00:52

Do you get anxious asking people for donations? How much salary should the leader of a nonprofit make? How do you feel about wealthy people? The answers to these questions all come down to your ...

Ep 54: The 15-Year-Old Nonprofit Superhero (with Kayla&Andrea Abramowitz) from 2018-03-17T14:30:56

Kayla Abramowitz is AMAZING. At 11 years old, she founded a nonprofit that helps sick kids feel a whole lot better. In this episode, Kayla and her CEO-mom share what they’ve learned over the las...

Ep 53: Asking for Money Isn’t Sexy... But Philanthropy Is (with Claire Axelrad) from 2018-03-03T14:57:53

Neuroscientists confirm that when somebody gives a donation, it lights up the same part of the brain as having sex or eating chocolate. So why does fundraising give so many adults the creeps? An...

Ep 52: Personal Politics vs. Public Responsibilities (with Anne Wallestad) from 2018-02-17T15:00:51

Every person who joins a board comes with opinions and points of view. But what happens when your responsibility to your organization as a board member conflicts with your personal politics? Sho...

Ep 51: A Symphony of Shared Leadership (with Jim Roe and Bernard Labadie) from 2018-02-03T15:00:08

At arts orgs, how should power be shared when, in addition to the Executive Director, there is also a creative director who is, perhaps, the most important leader of all? My guests explain how t...

Ep 50: Why Bartenders Make Great Leaders (with Helen Rothberg) from 2018-01-20T15:30:57

Based on lessons she learned working as a bartender while pursuing degrees in business and behavioral science, Dr. Helen Rothberg identifies leaders by a cocktail of choices they make; how to ap...

Ep 49: How To Make 2018 a Whole Lot Better from 2018-01-06T15:26:45

This podcast is about resolving to bounce back. It’s about living in a world of unease while keeping your passion and desire to improve it -- alive and well. In this episode, I share 15 things w...

Ep 48: Building a Culture of Gratitude from 2017-12-16T14:43:48

A strong leader builds an organizational culture of gratitude. It impacts your staff, board, volunteers, donors, and more. But how do you do it? And when?

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Ep 47: How to Engage Millennials (with Abra Annes) from 2017-12-02T15:12:47

How do we engage millennials and get them to support causes we care about, and that we hope they care about too? That's the topic of today's podcast...

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Ep 46: Strategic Program Design (with Lindsay Hoffman) from 2017-11-18T15:16:47

Too often, nonprofits become distracted by the newest and shiniest programming. This can cause big opportunities to be missed. Lindsay Hoffman explains...

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Ep 45: The Final 60 Days of the Year (with Seth Rosen) from 2017-11-04T12:58:16

We're now in the critical year-end fundraising season. It's daunting. My guest, Seth Rosen, will help you sort it out and make the most of these 2 months…

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Ep 44: The Executive Director With No Staff (with Sarah Audet) from 2017-10-14T19:23:14

With everything nonprofit leaders have to get done, imagine that you are the only staff person. What would that look like? I wanted to know...

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Ep 43: Nonprofits, Storytelling, and ‘This American Life’ (with Alex Blumberg) from 2017-09-30T14:00:36

Alex Blumberg, executive producer of'This American Life'discusses with me the power of storytelling to activate people to engage and help your nonprofit.

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Ep 42: What’s With All The Ribbons? (with Dan Osheyack) from 2017-09-16T14:08:31

In this episode, my guest Dan Osheyack and I will explore issues of awareness, action, and cause marketing at nonprofits.

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Ep 41: What Every New Board Member Needs to Understand from 2017-07-29T16:40:08

I’d love for this podcast to be played for new board members – maybe at an orientation or perhaps at a board retreat when you are setting expectations.

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Ep 40: Overcoming Fundraising Mistakes (with Jim Bennett) from 2017-07-15T16:31:07

Fundraising can be full of landmines. But is there a way to turn fundraising lemons into lemonade? Why yes, I do believe there is.

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Ep 39: From Kitchen Volunteer to Board Chair (with Sylvia Vogelman) from 2017-07-01T16:16:41

Multiple studies show the positive benefits of volunteering (for the volunteer). Today's guest took that to the limit and ultimately became the board chair!

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Ep 38: What the Heck is Marketing Anyway? (with Sarah Durham) from 2017-06-17T16:46:01

Marketing, done right, is central to all aspects of a nonprofit organization, from raising money to attracting the best people to enabling programs...

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Ep 37: The Partnership That Drives a Thriving Nonprofit (with Kim Freedman and Nick Purrington) from 2017-06-03T14:22:33

What is the single best indicator of a thriving nonprofit? A strong partnership between the board and staff leaders. So I spoke with both and asked them...

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Ep 36: The Community Builder Who Became a Philanthropist (with Stu McLaren) from 2017-05-13T13:17:53

How does one of the foremost experts in building online communities end up working to help thousands of children in Africa get a daily education?

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Ep 35: Stop Asking Your Board to Fundraise! (With Gail Perry) from 2017-04-29T13:44:30

In this episode fundraising expert Gail Perry argues that pushing your board members to fundraise is a big mistake. She suggests a better approach...

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Ep 34: Leading a Small (But Mighty) Nonprofit (With Joan Garry) from 2017-04-15T13:14:25

Small nonprofits need as much (or more) help than larger ones but usually don't have the same resources available. This episode focuses on their issues...

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Ep 33: Successful Nonprofit Collaborations (With Geri Mannion) from 2017-04-01T14:03:03

It takes a village to run a nonprofit. Today’s guest tells us a thing or two about the success that comes with collaboration – and the potential hazards.

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Ep 32: Even Roger Federer Has a Coach (With Michael Bungay Stanier) from 2017-03-18T18:30:44

For business and nonprofit leaders, an executive coach can make all the difference. Here's my interview with the #2 executive coach in the world...

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Ep 31: Givers and Takers at Nonprofits (With Adam Grant) from 2017-03-04T20:09:27

Once in awhile you read a book that really sticks with you and changes the way you think. For me, one of those was"Give and Take"by Adam Grant.

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Ep 30: Nonprofits Are Messy... So What? (with Tim Harford) from 2017-02-18T19:53:36

Some argue that when I call nonprofits “messy,” I’m doing them a disservice. Am I? My guest Tim Harford believes that we should all embrace the mess. But how?

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Ep 29: Leadership Transitions: How to Avoid the Mess (with Don Tebbe) from 2017-02-04T15:52:26

Don Tebbe, an expert at planning successful leadership transitions, joined me to give us all some great advice on how to navigate the waters of change.

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Ep 28: Difficult Conversations in Uncertain Times (with Parisa Parsa) from 2017-01-21T19:20:31

Nonprofits are needed now more than ever. Strong leadership is needed more than ever. And we have to start doing a better job of listening to each other...

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Ep 27: Confessions of a Terrible Board Member (with Eileen Opatut) from 2017-01-07T19:49:31

What if a prospective board member looks great “on paper” but doesn’t pan out as the five-star board member you’d expected? Is it their fault? Yours?

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Ep 26: Building a Culture of Optimism (with Steve Gross) from 2016-12-17T20:23:11

Two brothers start a business selling t-shirts with just $78 in the bank. They live out of a van and eat PB and J for 5 years. They are selling optimism..

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Ep 25: Year End In T-Minus 30... (with Seth Rosen) from 2016-12-03T20:14:16

Most nonprofits see 30% of their revenue come in the door in December. Have you planted sufficient seeds? Will you hit your numbers? Are you ready?

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Ep 24: Corporate Support the Right Way (with Julie Hirshey) from 2016-11-05T19:11:51

In this episode you will learn about how sports teams -- and corporations in general -- have so much more to give than just money.

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Ep 23: Unlocking the Mystery of Foundation Funding (with Molly de Aguiar) from 2016-10-22T18:19:52

If you are funded by a foundation or want to be, you'll want to listen to this episode where I interview foundation program officer Molly de Aguiar...

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Ep 22: The Art and Science of Asking for Money (with Brian Saber) from 2016-10-08T20:12:22

Why do so many people find it terrifying to ask for money, even for organizations they care deeply about? It's critical. Here's how to go about asking...

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Ep 21: The Happy Healthy Nonprofit (with Beth Kanter) from 2016-09-24T19:18:29

Working at a nonprofit can feel like an express train to Burnout-land. How do we avoid that stay mindful and healthy while doing such passionate work?

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Ep 20: Volunteer If You Want to Live Longer (with Pamela Hawley) from 2016-09-10T19:57:03

Harvard did a study that determined that volunteering helps people live longer and healthier lives with 38% fewer nights spent in the hospital.

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Ep 19: How to Give a Great Speech (with Elaine Bennett) from 2016-08-27T19:48:27

How do you write and give a great speech that excites and inspires your audience about your organization? Elaine Bennett tells you how to do just that.

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Ep 18: Mission Control and Strategic Planning (with Liana Downey) from 2016-08-13T19:20:50

It seems like everyone views strategic planning with a sort of dread. But when you do it right, it's game changing. With special guest Liana Downey.

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Ep 17: How One Founder Avoided'Founder Syndrome'- with guest Kevin Jennings from 2016-07-30T19:02:19

Perhaps the question I am most commonly asked is this: How do I make the switch from corporate to nonprofit? Bill Abrams knows a lot about this subject...

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Ep 16: Why I Moved From Corporate to Nonprofit - with guest Bill Abrams from 2016-07-16T18:02:15

Perhaps the question I am most commonly asked is this: How do I make the switch from corporate to nonprofit? Bill Abrams knows a lot about this subject...

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Ep 15: On Direct Response Fundraising - with guest Lisa Maska from 2016-07-02T15:32:43

I spoke with guest Lisa Maska about how marketing has changed in the digital age and why direct response fundraising still works better than anything else.

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Ep 14: Building a Great Development Team - with guest Seth Rosen from 2016-06-18T20:59:48

Seth Rosen, my fundraising genius and associate, lays out the steps for building a happy and productive development team.

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Ep 13: Extraordinary Nonprofit Communications - with guest Sean Gibbons from 2016-06-04T18:10:37

Sean Gibbons explains why organizations that do communications well are smarter, stronger, and vastly more effective than those that don’t.

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Ep 12: Turning Tragedy Into Legacy - with Guest Caroline Samponaro from 2016-05-21T13:07:42

This is the story of a community organizing itself in the wake of a tragedy in order to make positive change. With guest Caroline Samponaro.

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Ep 11: Finding the Best People - with Guest Marilyn Machlowitz from 2016-05-07T20:59:47

Nothing is more important than your people. Nothing. But how do you find 5-star employees? Should you hire a recruitment firm to help?

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Ep 10: Successful Fundraising at Small Nonprofits – With Pamela Grow from 2016-04-24T21:00:05

So your nonprofit is too small to hire a development director, but you won’t get any bigger without a development director. What do you do?

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Ep 9: Websites, Social Media and Online Movements – With Scott Paley from 2016-04-17T21:00:31

This episode is packed with useful, practical advice on how to make people sit up and take notice of your organization and mobilize for your cause.

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Ep 8: A Day in the Life of a Board Chair – With Joe Landau from 2016-04-10T21:00:38

Board Chair is one of the most important roles at a nonprofit organization, but it isn’t the job for just anyone. Learn about what makes a good board chair.

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Ep 7: Corporate Sponsorships Ain’t What They Used to Be – With Guest Nancy Mahon of Estee Lauder from 2016-04-03T18:49:49

Once upon a time a nonprofit would ask corporate partners to sponsor a table at your annual gala... Well, things have gotten a bit more complex.

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Ep 6: It’s All About the Message – My Conversation With PR Guru Howard Bragman from 2016-03-27T21:17:10

“At the end of the 7th day, God realized He needed a publicist. So He made a couple of calls, everyone recommended Howard Bragman, and the rest is history.”

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Ep 5: Special Events: It’s Not All About the Centerpieces from 2016-03-20T22:36:27

Event planning can fray the calmest of nerves. For many nonprofits it's"make or break". Here's great advice from event guru Jason Burlingame.

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Ep 4: Nonprofits Are Messy AND Funny: My Interview with Vu Le from 2016-03-07T19:44:04

His blog is called Nonprofit With Balls. How can you not laugh? Here's my interview with the hysterical Vu Le.

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Ep 3: My Interview with Alexander Sanger of Planned Parenthood from 2016-02-27T15:31:33

Interview with author, board chair, and former Planned Parenthood NY CEO Alexander Sanger. We discuss leadership, staff motivation, and board relations.

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Ep 2: A Day in the Life of an Executive Director from 2016-02-26T18:01:10

Being the Executive Director of a nonprofit is a tough and demanding job. But what exactly does an Executive Director do all day? And how can Executive Directors manage their time to truly be ef...

Ep 1: The Fear of Asking for Money from 2016-02-26T17:10:14

Asking for money can be intimidating. Fundraiser extraordinaire Seth Rosen and I discuss concrete ways to ask for money without panic and fear.

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