Nonprofit Boards And Planning Learning
Embark on a journey of mastery in board governance and strategic planning with our selected collection of educational videos– tailored exclusively for nonprofits. Venture into the intricate dynamics of board management, from recruitment and retention of effective board members to nurturing a culture of engagement and mutual respect. Explore the heart of strategic planning as nonprofit experts share compelling visions and means to devise actionable plans, and implement them successfully. You’ll learn how to synergize your board and staff and align them towards common goals and objectives. Whether you’re a newly formed nonprofit seeking structure and new board members or an established organization aiming to streamline processes and enhance impact, these inspiring learning sessions will give you a wealth of resources.
In the world of nonprofit fundraising, few topics carry as much weight—or as much uncertainty—as capital campaigns. In this riveting conversation, cohosts Julia Patrick and Wendy F. Adams sit down with the esteemed Steven Shattuck, Director of Engagement at Capital Campaign Pro, to pull back the curtain on the most pressing capital campaign insights, fears, and strategies that can make or break a nonprofit’s fundraising success.
Steven, a leading voice in nonprofit innovation and the author of ‘Robots Make Bad Fundraisers’, takes the audience into the why and how of capital campaigns, exploring feasibility studies, consultant roles, donor engagement, and the key intersection between #AI and fundraising. As capital campaigns often mean a seismic financial undertaking, many nonprofit leaders hesitate, fearing failure, funding shortages, or strategic missteps. In his conversation with cohosts Julia Patrick and Wendy Adams, Steven debunks myths and presents data-driven best practices to demystify the process.
A particularly eye-popping moment in the chat is the revelation that ‘96% of nonprofits conducting capital campaigns reported satisfaction with their results—even if they didn’t reach their full goal’. Why? Because the ancillary benefits, from strengthening donor relationships to refining their internal fundraising systems, turned out to be just as critical as the dollars raised.
A major takeaway? Feasibility studies are not just about testing fundraising goals—they are an opportunity to connect with major donors and lay the groundwork for campaign success. As Steven describes . . ."You're going to come out of the process having a better idea of what you can raise, because that's what you're doing—you're testing the goal, you're testing the case for support, and you're talking to major donors."
From the role of campaign consultants to emerging technology’s influence on fundraising success, this episode is a masterclass for any nonprofit leader looking to navigate the high-stakes of capital campaigns with confidence and more knowledge.
#NonprofitFundraising #CapitalCampaigns #FeasibilityStudies
At what point in life do we stop growing, learning, or pushing beyond our comfort zones? For Lauri Hennessey, the answer is simple: never.
Our cohosts welcome Lauri Hennessey, a communications expert, nonprofit leader, and now an educator at the University of Washington. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring—one of reinvention, resilience, and relentless pursuit of purpose.
Lauri's story takes us back to her early years at the University of Washington, where she left school without a degree to pursue a career in journalism. What followed was a distinguished professional journey in media, politics, and nonprofit leadership. But beneath her successes, there was always that lingering unfinished chapter—her education. It wasn’t until a colleague’s simple yet powerful question, "Are you dead?" that Lauri recognized the only thing holding her back was herself.
So she returned. Not only did she complete her long-abandoned undergraduate degree, but she went on to earn a master’s degree and ultimately became a professor. Through this transition, she discovered a profound connection between the nonprofit world and academia—both sectors fueled by storytelling, impact, and a shared mission for change.
Lauri sheds light on a fascinating concept: ‘middle-essence’. Often compared to adolescence, this period between ages 45 to 65 forces individuals to question their purpose, their legacy, and what truly fulfills them. She challenges the inertia that can settle in as we grow older, urging us to remain curious, bold, and open to reinvention.
For nonprofit professionals, her story is especially poignant. Burnout is real, talent is being lost, and many feel trapped in an unending cycle of fundraising, board management, and organizational challenges. But Lauri’s journey serves as a testament to the idea that stepping outside one's comfort zone—whether by returning to school, shifting careers, or simply re-evaluating what matters most—can be life-changing.
"You can have many acts in life. Don't just accept the story you have now—ask yourself what's blocking you, and take that first step to rewrite it," she says.
Her message is a call to action. It’s never too late to pivot, to rediscover passion, and to author the next chapter of your story!
#CareerReinvention #LifelongLearning #NonprofitLeadership
The nonprofit sector is facing an unprecedented wave of leadership transitions, and it’s not slowing down. This discussion on "The Retiring Nonprofit Leader" delves into the complexities of executive transitions, the emotional weight of departing leaders, and the structural challenges organizations face when leadership changes hands.
Guest Catherine Bradshaw, a leadership transition consultant at EOS Transition Partners, highlights the phenomenon of the "silver tsunami," where baby boomer executives, after years of delays due to economic downturns and global crises, are now retiring in droves. "The younger generation is saying, ‘I’m not going to work 70 hours a week,’ which means we need to redefine leadership roles."
Nancy Long, executive advisor and former executive director of 501 Commons, underscores the burden these long-serving leaders have carried. "Nonprofits recover much slower than businesses or government from economic crises. Executive directors have been shouldering the weight, and now many are simply spent."
Beyond the emotional challenges, there are significant financial and operational risks. Catherine warns, "A rushed transition can lead to the wrong hire, staff departures, and lost funders." Nancy adds, "A proper transition plan is like a race car pit stop—former executives should step back but remain available for critical guidance."
This conversation is a wake-up call for nonprofit boards and executives alike. Proper planning, structured transition support, and a focus on leadership sustainability are key to ensuring organizations thrive through these changes.
#NonprofitLeadership #ExecutiveTransition #SilverTsunami
The nonprofit world is evolving fast, and as we step into 2025, organizations must embrace key shifts to stay impactful. Meico Marquette Whitlock, a workplace well-being strategist and CEO of Mindful Techie, unpacked the trends that will shape the sector this year!
Mental Health Is a Must-Have, Not a Luxury. Burnout is at an all-time high, and nonprofits can no longer afford to treat well-being as an afterthought. Meico underscores the urgency, stating, “Taking care of your people and making sure they are well is the mission. If they’re not taken care of, your mission won’t move forward.”
Flexible Work Is Here to Stay. The pandemic changed how we work forever, and successful nonprofits will be those that embrace flexible policies—not just remote work, but truly adaptive structures that prioritize people’s needs and productivity.
Soft Skills Matter More Than Ever. In an AI-driven world, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and human connection will define successful leadership. Technology can enhance efficiency, but it can’t replace the value of being human in the workplace.
Authentic and Meaningful Online & Offline Connections. Whether remote, hybrid, or in-office, organizations must be digitally fluid—blending in-person and virtual interactions with intention, ensuring every connection has real value.
AI: No Longer a Shiny New Toy. AI is now an operational necessity, but nonprofits must integrate it thoughtfully. From fundraising to donor engagement, organizations need a mission-aligned AI strategy that balances efficiency with ethical considerations.
Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, and CEO of Cultivate for Good, explores the dynamics of leadership, workforce retention, and strategic collaboration in the nonprofit sector. Wendy, a trusted thought leader, shares a compelling vision for the future, detailing the urgency of prioritizing people as the driving force behind mission success.
This lively conversation, hosted by Julia Patrick, opens with a stark reality: the nonprofit sector is facing a 19% turnover rate, a costly and often underestimated challenge. Wendy outlines the financial and organizational impact of constant talent churn, urging leaders to shift from a reactive to a proactive mindset. By investing in career development, fostering open dialogue, and ensuring employees feel valued beyond their paychecks, organizations can improve their retention and stability.
Julia and Wendy shift to a critical issue: the traditional “sink or swim” mentality that has long dominated workplace culture. Wendy powerfully refutes this outdated notion, saying that the well-being of nonprofit professionals “is not a luxury—it is a necessity. The workforce has changed, and organizations must evolve with it by embracing a culture of support, development, and inclusion.”
Another key topic during their chat is the necessity of strategic collaboration in an era where funding is more competitive than ever. Funders are no longer simply backing well-intentioned initiatives; they are seeking sustainable impact. Wendy points out that nonprofits must shift from competition to collaboration, aligning their individual efforts with like-minded organizations to amplify their reach and effectiveness.
The conversation also touches on leadership succession planning, a topic many organizations hesitate to address until it's too late. With many sector leaders preparing to retire, Wendy talks about the value of grooming the next generation of leaders to ensure continuity and mission sustainability. By embedding career growth planning into organizational strategy, NPO’s can cultivate a pipeline of future leaders ready to carry the mission forward.
Julia and Wendy wrap up this discussion with an inspiring call to action: it’s time for nonprofit leaders to rethink their approach to people, progress, and partnerships. With a commitment to investing in talent, fostering a culture of well-being, and embracing collaboration, everyone in the sector can navigate the challenges ahead and thrive.
#NonprofitLeadership #WorkforceRetention #StrategicCollaboration
The CEO of the FreedomFund.org, Nick Grono, discusses his new book, How to Lead Nonprofits: Turning Purpose into Impact to Change the World. Nick shares his deep wisdom on leadership in the nonprofit sector, drawing from his extensive career that transitioned from corporate law and finance to public policy and, ultimately, nonprofit leadership.
Nick highlights the Freedom Fund's vital work in combating modern slavery, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with over 150 grassroots organizations worldwide. He describes how nonprofit leadership differs from corporate leadership, pointing to the lack of structured training for nonprofit executives. His book addresses this gap by providing practical lessons, drawn from his experience and interviews with other nonprofit leaders.
The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, peers into three critical themes: purpose, impact, and collaboration. Nick stresses that ‘purpose’ is the nonprofit sector’s unique superpower, capable of mobilizing teams, funders, and stakeholders to drive systemic change. He also discusses the necessity of investing in leadership development within the NPO space, arguing that funders should recognize leadership support as a vital component of their philanthropic investments.
On the topic of ‘collaboration’, Nick acknowledges the challenges yet highlights its transformative potential. He explains how the Freedom Fund operates as a collaborative fund, pooling resources from multiple donors to support common strategies. He also points out that competition for limited funding often discourages collaboration among NPO’s--a problem the Freedom Fund addresses by committing to multi-year funding and fostering cooperative networks among grantees.
Another major topic the duo talk about is trust-based philanthropy, an evolving approach that minimizes administrative burdens on grantees while providing unrestricted funding whenever possible. Nick shares how the Freedom Fund employs trust-based giving principles, including simplifying application and reporting requirements, to better serve grassroots organizations.
Nick also advocates for “survivor leadership”, ensuring that those with lived experience in human trafficking and forced labor play an active role in shaping solutions. He explains how “frontline partners”, particularly local community organizations, are the linchpins of effective change, elaborating on why solutions must come from within affected communities rather than being imposed externally.
This encompassing interview concludes with an inspiring message: nonprofit leaders must continuously realign with their purpose, invest in their leadership, and embrace collaboration to drive meaningful change. Nick’s book serves as a valuable resource for current and aspiring nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their impact. We encourage you to read it!
#NonprofitLeadership #PurposeDrivenImpact #FreedomFund
In the world of nonprofits, the journey often begins with a single moment—an unexpected turn that forever alters the trajectory of one's life. For Karen Olson, founder and CEO Emeritus of Family Promise, that moment came when she reached out to a homeless woman outside Grand Central Station with a simple act of kindness—a ham and cheese sandwich and a heartfelt conversation. That exchange illuminated a path she had never envisioned, leading her from a corporate marketing career to a life dedicated to addressing family homelessness in America.
In this recent conversation with host Julia Patrick, Karen shares how an impulse to connect with a stranger ultimately transformed not only her own life but also the lives of countless families across the country. "I knew at that point I had crossed an invisible line," she recalls. "I’d always wanted to help people, but I wasn’t sure how. Meeting Millie changed that—I saw her humanity, and it moved me to action."
That action led to FamilyPromise.org, an organization that now spans nearly 200 affiliates nationwide, providing critical support services, housing solutions, and volunteer-driven assistance to families experiencing homelessness. But as Karen shares, homelessness is often misunderstood. "For many people, homelessness is the man lying on the subway grate or the woman pushing a shopping cart," she explains. "But actually, 35% of all people experiencing homelessness are members of families—and they are invisible."
Through Family Promise, Karen has harnessed the power of small acts of kindness, demonstrating how even the simplest gestures—like an early-morning latte given by a volunteer to a struggling mother—can have profound effects. "You never know how people can be moved by small acts of kindness," she reflects . . . . . "That’s what changes lives."
Karen’s story serves as both a call to action and a reminder: Change does not require grand gestures—it begins with recognizing another’s humanity, taking that first step, and allowing purpose to unfold.
This sparkling conversation addresses the enduring and evolving challenges of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). Gordon begins with illuminating the organization’s nearly century-long history, rooted in combating hate and fostering inclusivity since its founding in 1927.
Reflecting on the origins of the Diversity Center, Gordon shares, “For 97 years, this organization has been fighting the forces of violence and exclusion.” He elaborates on how the mission has adapted to societal changes, emphasizing how DEIB practices today are about acceptance and creating workplaces that reflect diverse communities.
Amidst national debates surrounding DEIB, Gordon encourages reframing conversations: “Diversity doesn’t have to be about social justice—it’s about acceptance and embracing people for who they are.” With a focus on transparency and education, the center actively involves donors, hosts transformative events, and builds bridges across generations.
The conversation between these two will give you a hopeful outlook toward engaging unity and open communication as a pathway to overcoming DEIB challenges.
#DEIB #NonprofitLeadership #DiversityMatters
Nonprofits, brace yourselves--host Julia Patrick sits down with Katie Warnock, CEO and founder of Staffing Boutique, to dive into the challenges of nonprofit staffing in 2025. Against the backdrop of a multi-generational workforce and the increasing integration of AI, Katie offers helpful strategies for navigating these complexities.
Katie highlights the nuances of managing a workforce spanning five generations, opining, “You need to be able to manage such a different range of thinkers… how do you maneuver around that?” This challenge is compounded in nonprofits, where older board members often struggle to relate to younger staff, especially regarding hybrid work models and digital communication preferences.
Katie also shares her own journey of embracing #AI to enhance efficiency. Initially resistant, she eventually leveraged AI tools to create marketing videos, demonstrating the power of adaptability. As she puts it, “Once we swallow the pill… we need to look at AI as a tool to make our jobs more efficient.”
From communication chaos to staffing dramas, Katie’s insights are the survival guide nonprofit leaders didn’t know they needed. With a blend of wit, wisdom, and real-world examples, she delivers actionable advice for navigating the complex, multi-generational, AI-enhanced, hybrid-working, slightly-stressed-out world of nonprofit leadership!
#NonprofitLeadership #WorkforceTrends #nonprofithr
In an era where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are often polarized, Raël Nelson, Partner and Head of Equity at the Bridgespan Group, brings clarity and hope to the nonprofit sector. Joining Julia Patrick, Raël shares insights rooted in years of experience leading DEI efforts.
“We live siloed lives,” Raël begins, “but it’s in the workplace where most of us interact across lines of difference. This is our opportunity to learn and grow together.” These moments are pivotal in fostering understanding and collaboration, especially within mission-driven organizations.
Raël’s leadership at Bridgespan demonstrates how nonprofits can lead the charge in addressing systemic inequities—not just externally, but within their own structures. As she points out, “It’s not just about hiring diverse teams; it’s about building an environment of equity and inclusion where everyone thrives.”
This timely episode reframes DEI as a mutual benefit rather than an obligation. Raël explores with us how nonprofits, regardless of their mission, are inherently tied to DEI, from dog shelters addressing systemic poverty to libraries serving diverse communities. Her message will be clear to you: inclusivity strengthens organizations and their impact.
#DiversityLeadership #EquityInAction #NonprofitDEI
Aging is universal, and it's time we view it as an opportunity, not a limitation. Julie Kline, Director of Program Strategy at Lifetime Arts, discusses "creative aging" and its transformative impact. Julie highlights the necessity of embedding creativity into aging, emphasizing that “all of us are creative and should have opportunities to be creative across the entire span of our lives.”
LifetimeArts.org takes a multi-level approach, empowering communities to embrace creativity for older adults while addressing systemic issues of ageism. With engaging insights, Julie shares staggering statistics: by 2034, adults over 65 will outnumber children under 18 in the U.S. This demographic shift demands a cultural change. “We’re not just running programs; we’re changing the culture,” she says passionately, pointing to the importance of integrating creative aging into every nonprofit's mission.
Whether you're a library, an arts organization, or a community group, this episode challenges nonprofits to view aging services as central to their work. Watch and explore actionable steps to connect with older adults, build inter-generational relationships, and create a more inclusive future at your nonprofit!
#CreativeAging #HealthyAging #NonprofitImpact
Welcome Jeffrey Wilcox and Joan Brown from Third Sector Company, as they deliver new ideas in 2025 about the pivotal role of ‘interim leadership and board training’ in today’s nonprofit sector. Jeffrey kicks off this informative conversation by defining the concept of interim leadership as "helping not-for-profit organizations to take a pause in building a bridge between their prideful past and a hopeful future." The discussion amplifies how interim leadership is not merely a stopgap but a profound, transformational process that helps organizations align with their mission and prepare for sustainable growth.
Joan describes how successful board training goes beyond checking boxes; it’s about creating a learning environment that engages and empowers board members, saying, "We know that learning has taken place when we see the needle moved… If there's no difference, that was us talking to someone." Their insights will challenge you and your nonprofit to rethink traditional approaches to governance, focusing instead on iterative processes, tailored strategies, and preparing for inevitable leadership transitions.
Don’t miss some of these key takeaways, including the necessity of a dynamic board training agenda, the importance of involving senior staff in governance learning, and how to cultivate future board and organizational leaders. The fast paced dialog, hosted by Julia Patrick, also underscores the role of boards in navigating external changes like AI, generational transitions, and evolving funding landscapes.
#NonprofitLeadership #BoardTraining #InterimLeadership
The arts sector is in peril, teetering on a precipice of elitism and irrelevance, according to Alan Harrison, author of Scene Change and Scene Change 2. In this provocative discussion, Alan argues that many nonprofit arts organizations have lost their way, prioritizing exclusivity over impact. “Donors donate so that donors may attend,” he notes, criticizing the entrenched culture of elitist perks and private access. His biting analysis is a call to action: arts organizations must become true charities that serve their communities, or risk obsolescence.
Alan ’s critique doesn’t stop there. He tackles the fallacy of "art for art's sake," labeling it a luxury nonprofits cannot afford. He champions organizations like Arts Capacity, which blend art and service by using music to rehabilitate incarcerated individuals, reducing recidivism rates to unprecedented lows. “If you’re not serving the community, you’re not essential,” he declares, urging nonprofits to embrace measurable impact.
The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, also looks into diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), an area where many organizations falter. Harrison’s metaphor of DEI as a bathtub resonates: “It’s okay to lose the water on the floor—those who resist change—because the new water you add will be more abundant and engaged.” This bold stance challenges arts leaders to let go of outdated, exclusionary practices.
With humor, insight, and a “touch of snark”, Alan gives us a roadmap for reinventing the arts sector, . . . . . .but it’s clear the road ahead requires courage. Learn more at: 501c3.guru
#ArtsImpact #NonprofitLeadership #SaveTheArts
Passion can inspire change, but it takes more than inspiration to lead. In his insightful book, Passion Isn't Enough: A Practical Guide for Nonprofit Leaders, David Rhode unpacks the realities of nonprofit leadership. Drawing on 20+ years of experience and interviews with 22 leaders, David presents a transformative guide for nonprofit executives looking for actionable advice. He challenges the notion that passion alone drives success, stating, “Passion can help attract resources, but it won’t sustain you as a leader. Leadership requires skills, strategy, and adaptability.”
From his chat with co-host Julia Patrick, you’ll hear why his practical insights resonate across organizations of all sizes, whether they operate with million-dollar budgets or grassroots teams of three. He shares how isolation often plagues nonprofit leaders, urging them to build connections: “Create a cohort of peers, even if it’s just two or three people. Leadership is lonely, but it doesn’t have to be isolating.”
Filled with actionable steps, interactive QR codes, and snippets of wisdom from a diverse group of leaders, this book is a lifeline for those navigating the complexities of nonprofit work. Whether you’re managing crisis communications, engaging your board, or strategizing growth, Passion Isn't Enough equips you to lead with confidence. Check it out!!
#NonprofitLeadership #PassionAndAction #NonprofitGrowth
An electrifying conversation with Robert Lewis, Jr., Nicholas President and CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Boston. With charisma and a passion rooted in lived experience, Robert shares his remarkable journey and the impactful work of his organization, which serves over 14,000 teens and touches the lives of 40,000 families annually.
From his upbringing in public housing to his leadership today, Robert embodies resilience and hope. “I remind them I grew up in the projects...I am them, just years older,” he reflects, connecting deeply with the youth he serves. His dedication isn’t just about addressing gaps in service—it’s about empowering young people to achieve greatness, providing them with resources for health, education, and workforce readiness. “Do you believe in these young people? This is not about fixing them—they don’t need fixing. It’s the systems around them that do,” Robert emphasizes, disrupting traditional narratives.
This fun episode to watch, hosted by Julia Patrick, tackles profound issues: educational disparities, health inequities, and the need for systemic change. But Robert’s message is clear—collaboration and investment in young people’s potential are the cornerstones of a thriving community. He invites donors, board members, and community leaders to engage firsthand with the Boys and Girls Club’s mission, emphasizing that this is about building a “return on community,” not just an ROI.
This heartening discussion redefines leadership, challenges assumptions, and inspires action.
#YouthEmpowerment #BridgeBuilding #NonprofitLeadership
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