The Nonprofit Show

When nonprofits tackle a major platform shift, the tech is only half the story. JMT Consulting pros Brady Haslebacher (Director of Program Management) and Dagmar “Dagi” Stanton (Manager of Education Services) map out the human and operational moves that make change stick. This informative episode breaks down why big projects stall—no top-down buy-in, poor internal communication, and late user inclusion—and then shows how to reverse it with a clear cadence, a requirements doc everyone can point to, and training that respects different learning styles. You'll also hear how to build champions: start with pain points, practice real workflows, revisit what was decided four weeks ago, and connect dashboards to daily tasks so executives and staff share one view of success.Brady puts it plainly: “Without communication, missions fail.” From day one, he presses leaders to create a real pre-decision phase—document requirements, prioritize reporting needs, and establish ownership from the C-suite through front-line users. His data points are clear: a typical engagement runs ~90 days to go-live, ~60 days of hypercare, and one to two working sessions per week—about six months end-to-end.Dagi brings the trainer's lens, focusing on behavior and confidence. She works with teams who didn't even choose the new system, flipping reluctance into momentum by making sessions unexpectedly fun and practical. Her mantra cuts through inertia: “The right answer isn't ‘because we've always done it that way.'” She intentionally sets up safe mistakes so users learn how fast they can correct entries—lowering stress and building mastery. The result is less dread and more people who actually enjoy using the tools.In closing, you'll get details on JMT's Innovate 2026 (Washington, D.C., May 4–6): a pre-conference day for deep skill building, followed by multi-track sessions that span software, finance, management, and sector trends—plus the chance to meet your people in person.If you're planning a system change—or sitting in one right now—this conversation gives you timelines, team roles, and a playbook to move from anxiety to adoption without the hair-on-fire moments.#ChangeManagement #NonprofitTechFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

We sat down with Amos Balongo, keynote speaker and communications coach, to explore a subject rarely discussed in the nonprofit space — personal visibility. Amos challenges the traditional mindset that humility and impact must exist in separate spheres, proposing instead that visibility is both a professional asset and a form of leadership.Speaking from Honolulu, Amos sets the stage with a simple truth: “If you don't speak for your work, nobody else will.” His message resonates deeply within a sector that often prizes quiet service over self-advocacy. For Amos, visibility isn't vanity — it's strategy. He reframes communication as the ability to connect and insists that becoming visible is a learnable habit rather than an innate gift. “It's not hope; it's a strategy,” he says. “You have to be bold, brief, and strategic.”Show host Julia Patrick draws the connection to the real-world nonprofit landscape, where professionals work tirelessly to amplify their organizations while neglecting their own personal brands. The result, Amos explains, is that talent often remains unseen. Visibility, he emphasizes, begins with intentionality — knowing your stakeholders, communicating outcomes instead of effort, and building recognition across and beyond your nonprofit.Amos's philosophy merges clarity with courage. He invites nonprofit leaders to reject the old adage “let your work speak for itself” and instead cultivate everyday visibility — a daily practice of sharing progress, celebrating results, and speaking with confidence. He notes that humility isn't silence; it's authenticity. The key is to shift from describing how hard you've worked to explaining the difference your work has made.Networking, too, takes on new meaning. Rather than collecting business cards, Amos urges purposeful connection rooted in belief, preparation, and authenticity. “Networking is an inside job before it becomes an outside job,” he asserts, reminding listeners that confidence in oneself and one's mission radiates outward.Ultimately, this conversation transcends self-promotion. It's about alignment between who you are and how you are perceived — an integrity-driven approach to leadership. Visibility, Amos concludes, is not a one-time project but a lifelong habit, built daily through connection, clarity, and courage.#TheNonprofitShow #LeadershipVisibility #NonprofitBrandingFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Craig Shelley, CEO of Schultz & Williams, joins Show host Julia Patrick, as they examine how philanthropy and nonprofit leadership are being reshaped under persistent uncertainty. Craig frames the moment succinctly: skepticism toward institutions is rising, which means nonprofits must state their values plainly and show exactly how funds power outcomes. The rubric he uses —“culture, brand, growth,” with culture first—becomes a practical lens leaders can apply immediately.A central thread is fear—of economic signals, of language missteps, of technology's speed. Craig notes that newer terms and jargon often widen the gap between sector insiders and the public. The remedy, he argues, is precision in communication and integrity in positioning. Julia observes a leadership pivot she's hearing across the sector: “I've shifted my focus from task management to almost cheerleader,” which reframes modern leadership as energizing teams, not merely allocating tasks.Remote work adds complexity: video meetings enable contact but thin relationships. Craig cautions that virtual convenience can erode the depth required for durable trust with colleagues and donors. He urges fundraisers—especially early-career professionals—to prioritize in-person relationship building. Otherwise, if their engagement stays purely digital, they compete directly with automated outreach. AI, in his telling, is already table stakes for efficiency—wealth screening, signal-based prospecting, and automated acknowledgments—but not a substitute for human rapport.The conversation widens to concentric circles of stakeholders: start with staff, then the board, donors, and constituents. Invest in people first—reduce friction, understand motivations, build clarity. Curiosity is the catalyst. Craig's own practice—asking about lives beyond job titles—models how depth is built. Julia adds a counterweight on “authentic leadership,” wryly noting that unfiltered authenticity can unsettle teams; leaders must project steadiness even while processing strain.What emerges is a modern leadership compact: clarity about values, consistent communication, judicious use of technology, and intentional relationship work—especially in person. The sector's generosity hasn't waned; the environment around it has shifted. Navigating that shift means centering people and partnerships, then aligning tools to support, not replace, human connection.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Joint fundraising: bold idea, complicated feelings. On this Fundraisers Friday, Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall swap real-world stories and field notes on how small and midsize nonprofits can team up without tripping over turf, lists, or logistics. Julia sets the table with a grin—“They're super tricky, they're very interesting, and I think there's a lot of fear around it”—then Tony gets granular on where collaboration actually shines: events. Think shared strengths: one NPO's marketing mojo plus another's room-flow wizardry equals a stronger guest experience and better net for all.The throughline is alignment. Serve the same community—youth, seniors, cancer journeys, pets—so the purpose reads as one chorus, not competing solos.Contracts keep friendships friendly. Spell everything out in an MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) or partnership agreement: shared costs, who fronts deposits, marketing responsibilities, volunteer management, night-of logistics, and—vital—who's the fiscal agent. As Tony puts it, “It's just a reminder that we are running a business.” Marketing lists stay private; attendee lists can be shared with explicit consent at registration. Afterward, leverage an event page for social recaps while each org pushes post-event notes to its own supporters.Courage shows up at the recap table. Schedule a quick postmortem to capture wins, gaps, and “never again” insights while memories are fresh. Sometimes the bravest answer is one-and-done: celebrate the success and move on. Julia's take on reality checks lands with a smile and a nod to capacity: big hearts are fantastic, but bandwidth pays the bills!! #TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitFundraising #Collaboration Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The phrase “overhead myth” still haunts the nonprofit world like a stubborn ghost. Host Julia C. Patrick sits down with Adam Holzberg, Partner and CPA at SAX Advisory Group, to teach viewers why judging nonprofits by their administrative expenses misses the point—and how education, transparency, and storytelling can replace outdated thinking with real understanding.Adam defines the myth plainly: “It's the idea that a nonprofit is less effective when it has higher overhead.” That assumption, he stresses, is simply untrue. The salaries, training, technology, IT support, and finance work that make up overhead are the very systems that keep programs running effectively. Yet donors and watchdogs still cling to the notion that only direct program spending matters. “In reality,” Adam says, “those programs can't even function without this infrastructure behind the scenes.”He traces the myth's roots to the early days of charity watchdogs comparing organizations through the functional expense schedule on Form 990 filings. Those comparisons turned rough accounting estimates into moral judgments, and the damage stuck. Many nonprofits still feel pressure to brag about low overhead ratios—even when it hurts them.Adam teaches that context matters. A government-funded nonprofit may appear more efficient because it spends little on fundraising, while a community charity that relies on individual donations will show a larger overhead percentage. There's no universal benchmark—though watchdogs like Charity Navigator often cite 70 percent program spending as a target. But he cautions against treating that as a rule: every mission, funding model, and cost structure differs.When asked how to fix the problem, Adam emphasizes education. Nonprofits must explain why investing in staff well-being, technology, and cybersecurity protects impact. His analogy brings it home: “If you build an offense with Patrick Mahomes and top receivers but neglect your offensive line, your team won't move the ball. Nonprofits are the same—without infrastructure, even the best programs fail.”Julia and Adam agree that shifting focus from expense ratios to impact data is the next frontier. Impact storytelling shows outcomes numbers can't: lives changed, communities strengthened, futures rebuilt. Leaders, boards, and funders must learn to read those stories alongside the spreadsheets.The conversation closes with hope—and a reminder that every conversation helps rewrite the narrative. By teaching donors, boards, and staff that strong infrastructure equals stronger mission delivery, nonprofits can finally end the burden of the overhead myth.#TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitFinance #OverheadMyth Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Temporary work isn't a consolation prize—it's a lever. In this candid conversation, Staffing Boutique's Director of Recruitment, Dana Scurlock, reframes the temp path as a smart way to stay employed, sharpen skills, and earn while exploring fit. She traces her roots to a temp desk in 2006 and explains why the market's realities—shorter tenures, year-end crunches, and staffing bandwidth gaps—make interim roles unusually valuable for both candidates and nonprofits. “One of the great benefits of temporary work is it can fit within your schedule,” she notes, pointing to project-based needs that run two or three days a week and let candidates stack to a full 40 hours across multiple gigs.Dana urges job seekers to check the “temporary” box on job boards instead of waiting months for a direct hire. Put temp and consulting projects on your resume—silence creates gaps. The better story in interviews is momentum: “Instead of saying ‘I'm in between jobs,' you're a hot commodity who's actively working.” She stresses two traits that get temps invited back: self-sufficiency and crisp communication. Arrive with questions that unlock the day's tasks, request the specific information you need up front, and deliver without constant check-ins.Cultural humility matters, especially in mission-driven shops. Temps often see opportunities to improve databases, files, or event processes; offer those observations with tact and with clarity about scope. Ask whether leaders want suggestions now or prefer focus on the assigned project. It's role awareness, not silence.On tech, list the actual tools on your resume and be ready to describe what you did with them—Raiser's Edge queries, Excel data cleaning, Outlook mail merges, LexisNexis research, whatever applies. Keep learning through webinars, libraries, and sector trainings; AI for prospecting and fundraising is here, so stay current. For many assignments, managers need someone who can start immediately with minimal training—so signaling concrete tool fluency is a fast pass.Finally, Dana frames temp roles as on-the-job professional development. You'll earn, learn modern systems, and convert real usage into stronger interview stories. When events and year-end appeals stack up, that readiness is gold for organizations—and a career accelerator for you.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Fundraising folklore says the “one big donor” will save the day! Katie Gaston, Director of Product Marketing at Bloomerang, dismantles that ‘chase' and replaces it with steady, systems-based fundraising. Katie frames her role in product marketing as disciplined storytelling: know your audience, understand what they care about, and read the landscape by listening, surveying, and researching. That same mindset applies to development. Start by cleaning and maintaining data in your CRM so you can actually see who is volunteering, giving monthly, and staying loyal over time. Automation can help—address updates, enrichment, and built-in features you may not have enabled.Katie moves the conversation from wishful thinking to practical math: “Research shows you will actually raise quite a bit more if you just focus on the donors already in your database.” Loyal monthly givers, long-tenured annual donors, and volunteers represent reliable lift and lower risk than a single major-gift “unicorn.” She urges teams to use AI thoughtfully. Whether through platform-native tools or carefully configured external assistants, AI can scan patterns, surface bequest prospects, identify mid-level donors to upgrade, and recommend next actions.This timely episode then maps a clear donor journey. Thank first-time donors within 48 hours, then vary contact across channels—email, short mobile video, text, and a newsletter update—to nurture toward recurring and mid-level giving. Build an automated sequence now so December's influx becomes January's momentum, not a one-month spike. Even modest, realistic steps matter: one sequence, one board call plan, one January volunteer invitation for first-time donors.Boards and leadership often share the myth. Bring them along with evidence. Use AI or CRM reports to present streak length, recency, and consistency. Real stories persuade too: a decades-long modest donor who later made a significant bequest once the relationship was cultivated. Katie offers a simple activation: “A board thank you call will actually increase the next gift size by up to 40%.” Pair that with the “48 hour” rule and you have a repeatable, high-leverage play.Finally, Katie's suggests we reframe year-end. December isn't a finish line; it's the on-ramp for the new year. Lean into the cultural reset of January—invite, ask why they gave, listen, and keep the story going. The takeaway: stop chasing the mythical donor and build a system that compounds loyalty you already have.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall get practical about recruiting fundraising talent when Q4 urgency is peaking. They open with empathy for development teams sprinting toward holiday giving, then move straight into the realities leaders must manage: retention, clarity, and smarter channels for sourcing candidates. Tony reminds us of the data behind turnover—average tenure around 19 months—and turns that into a charge for boards and executives to assess culture and expectations, not just replace people. “I'm an advocate of putting salary ranges in job postings,” he says, framing transparency as both respectful and time-saving for everyone.The core lesson: start with a carefully crafted role. Compensation, deliverables, and core competencies belong upfront so you can source with precision. Julia pushes the conversation further: what if someone has been in the role for ten years? Tony offers a balanced lens—deep relationships can be a huge asset provided the organization's future vision and the person's strengths still connect.From there, they map pathways to strong candidates: specialized job boards (AFP global and chapter sites, Chronicle of Philanthropy, local consulting firms' boards), professional networks, and the university pipeline. Today's philanthropic studies programs and micro-credentials (including LinkedIn Learning) expand opportunities for both organizations and professionals; mid-career learners with real-world experience can be exceptional hires. Julia points to the Lodestar Center at ASU as an example of a robust regional hub producing talent across ages and backgrounds.They also cover the human side: discretion on LinkedIn (quietly indicating recruiter-friendly status), partnering with search firms, and managing communications in small communities where reputations travel fast. Tony's encouragement is simple and memorable: “You have to be in it to win it.” That means showing up, telling trusted peers you're exploring options, and being thoughtful about where and how you share.The episode closes with practical optimism. Recruiting well isn't about luck—it's about clarity, channels, and consistent relationship-building. Name the role. State the range. Know the competencies. Post where fundraisers actually look. Tap universities and certificates. And keep your personal brand healthy—because your next opportunity often starts with the conversations you have today! #TheNonprofitShow #FundraisersFriday #NonprofitCareersFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Dwyer Workforce Development is rewriting what “possible” looks like for a young, fast-scaling nonprofit. In this compelling conversation, CEO Barb Clapp traces a journey that began with a blank slate in September 2022 and now stands at 10,000 Dwyer Scholars across seven states—with a confident path to 100,000 by 2030. The spark came from founder Jack Dwyer's twin commitments: expand opportunity for people shut out of stable careers and respond to the nationwide healthcare staffing crisis. Barb's charge was bold—design a national model that moves quickly, performs consistently, and proves its value to partners, employers, and learners.Her answer blends entrepreneurial rigor with social mission. Dwyer built a social enterprise engine—a $590 million conversion of a skilled nursing portfolio to nonprofit ownership—whose proceeds help fund training pathways. At ground level, the organization relies on clearly defined referral, training, and employer partnerships, each governed by MOUs and measurable expectations. That clarity enables adaptation to rural, suburban, and urban markets while maintaining one brand, one message, and one standard for outcomes. As Barb puts it, “My little motto is that press brings opportunity and having a consistent brand and understanding consistent messaging will improve outcomes.”Communications discipline is not a tactic; it is strategy. Internal messaging aligns every team member on values, goals, and voice. External messaging earns trust, investment, and momentum. Boards and leaders who resist marketing spend, Barb notes, miss the compounding returns of consistent communication. The results are striking: rapid state expansion, strong completion and placement outcomes for scholars, and a repeatable market entry framework. States now approach Dwyer—Kansas and New York among them—because the model is explicit, execution-ready, and partnered from day one.Barb's leadership philosophy centers on kindness through candor. “Clarity is kindness… I'm like a street shooter, so no one really doesn't understand what my expectations are.” That stance dignifies partners and scholars alike, and it fuels the organization's capacity to scale technology, staff, and regional structures without losing its heart. The pandemic exposed both the fragility and heroism of healthcare work; Dwyer's model honors that reality by opening doors to CNAs and other caregiving roles for individuals overcoming homelessness, domestic violence, and generational limits.The takeaway is simple and ambitious: when mission meets enterprise discipline and brand coherence, systems begin to shift. Dwyer Workforce Development is proving that national growth and local responsiveness can move together—one clear message, one rigorous playbook, and thousands of new careers at a time.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Nonprofits don't just need more messages—they need messages that move people. In this fast-paced episode we welcome persuasion instructor and longtime marketer Dean Batson to show how science-based communication turns attention into action. Batson traces his path from launching a digital agency to teaching persuasion at Arizona State University, where he studies the shortcuts our brains use to decide fast. “We make mental shortcuts all day long,” Dean explains. “If you know which way someone may lean because of a heuristic, you can frame your message to nudge that choice.”He breaks down social proof (those 5,000 five-star reviews that quietly sway your click), the danger of choice overload (the famous jam study where 24 flavors crushed sales), and the “availability heuristic”—why the word “shark” grabs attention while “falling coconuts” doesn't. Dean's advice: be the message people recall first. “Be the shark messaging, not the coconut messaging.”For fundraisers, this means streamlining every pathway from interest to gift. Keep donors in System One (fast, intuitive) rather than forcing System Two (slow, effortful) that stalls giving. Less friction. Fewer steps. Clear next action. Dean contrasts persuasion and manipulation with a simple rule: persuasion is transparent and win-win; manipulation is opaque and win-lose—and it burns trust.He also flips how teams read results. Many obsess over the 7% who opened an email while ignoring the 93% who didn't—classic survivorship bias. The fix: study the non-responders and reframe your outreach so more people move. Dean offers practical tactics you can use today, like priming stakeholders with a short Slack note before a meeting to set the idea as the front-runner. And don't wait: start shaping next week's “yes” with simple, steady cues today.Finally, Dean urges leaders to equip the entire organization—not just gift officers—with persuasion skills. When every staffer can frame ideas clearly, your mission becomes the message people remember, share, and support.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

ROI and culture rarely share the same sentence in nonprofit circles—yet that's exactly the connection guest Carrie Wright (Wright Consulting) makes with co-hosts Wendy F. Adams and Julia C. Patrick. Carrie argues that retention, performance, and donor experience begin inside the walls: “You will never serve your clients beyond the level of which you serve one another.” If teams are burned out, poorly onboarded, or siloed, no amount of recruiting spend fixes the churn. As she puts it, leaders must “close the back door” with rigorous assessment, honest listening, and visible action.Carrie's playbook is practical. Start with anonymous pulse checks—quarterly if possible—to hear reality, not assumptions. Then act: cross-functional small groups, bridge-building across departments, and norms that reward collaboration instead of comparison. Culture work isn't a memo; it's a habit system. Think heat rising to a boil: one degree at a time until 212.What about power dynamics? Carrie is clear that modeling starts at the top. Wall values must match hallway behavior. If leadership resists inside-out work but pushes customer-facing service, there's a mismatch. That's where courage comes in—for executives and for team members who “lead from where they sit.” Emerging leaders can shape tomorrow's norms today through reverse mentoring, curiosity, and steady ownership.Timelines matter. Culture change isn't instant. Carrie has seen meaningful movement in six to nine months when leaders commit, communicate, and keep at it—while accepting pruning along the way. People will self-select out; that's part of creating healthy soil. The gardener's mindset applies: tend, water, weed, and measure growth.Above all, the path forward is transparent: “Clarity is kindness.” Name the direction, keep conversations open, and invite people into the process—including the moments that are tough. Put culture on the same planning calendar as fundraising and events. If you're asking donors to invest, demonstrate that you're investing in your people with equal focus. The outcome? A mission that gains momentum because the team carrying it is strong, trusted, and aligned.#TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitLeadership #WorkplaceCultureFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

When a nonprofit founder steps away, the organization often faces one of the most emotional and uncertain chapters in its history. In this episode, Joan Brown, Chief Operating Officer at Interim Executives Academy, and Catherine Bradshaw, Senior Search Specialist at EOS Transition Partners, discuss the delicate art of following a founder and building stability during leadership succession.Catherine begins, “When a founder leaves, the organization loses not only a leader but often its very identity. The board and staff must learn that the mission can thrive beyond the individual.” Her experience reveals that many boards have never navigated a leadership change — especially one that involves the founder who is the face of the organization.Joan adds, “Interim leaders give organizations breathing space. When there's no heir apparent, an interim provides structure, clarity, and a safe period to determine what the future needs to look like.” She reminds us that interim executives aren't caretakers—they're catalysts for readiness, shaping communication and confidence at every level of the organization.Together, they address the emotional realities that come when a founder steps aside: staff anxiety, donor unease, and the founder's own sense of identity loss. Catherine recommends coaching and structured off-boarding as essential supports: “Departing leaders need grace and guidance too. It's about leaving the organization strong and knowing when to step fully away.”Joan highlights the power of communication: “No one functions well with prolonged uncertainty. Clear communication with staff, donors, and community partners makes all the difference in a smooth transition.” Both guests advocate early succession planning and the importance of professional interim leadership to prevent crisis-driven change.From retaining donor trust to defining new leadership roles, this sparkling conversation reveals why founder transitions, when managed thoughtfully, can be a time of renewal rather than instability. It's a masterclass for nonprofit boards, executives, and founders who want to lead with foresight rather than fear.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

If you want donors to move, tell them exactly where to go. In this Fundraisers Friday conversation, Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall turn vague appeals into precise, energizing calls to action (CTA's)—across giving, events, engagement, volunteering, and advocacy. Tony lays the foundation early: “Start with the call to action. What do I want folks to do?” When you begin with the outcome, every sentence supports momentum, not meandering.Julia puts a common myth on the table: “It's not just like go out and ask a bunch of rich people for money.” Fundraising isn't speed-dial; it's relationship-building, timing, and clarity. Tony reinforces the point: “Fundraising is all about relationships,” and your CTA is the moment you convert relationship energy into tangible next steps—give, register, share, join, or contact.Time-bound CTAs matter. Use real clocks, not artificial pressure. Matching gifts? Set the deadline: “Donate by October 15 so your gift will be doubled.” Community emergencies? Be specific: protect 20 roofs, feed families during power loss, or restore safe access to services this week. Impact framing turns abstract dollars into visible outcomes: $50 feeds one student for a month—$100 feeds two. That clarity invites bigger gifts because supporters can instantly see scale.Equally important: truth and fit. If the amount and impact don't match, supporters feel it. Build your figures from real program data, and keep the language human. Julia adds a practical lens for events: swap “RSVP” for action-forward phrases like “Save my seat.” Tap joyful FOMO without panic. Want engagement? Ask for it. “Click subscribe,” “Invite 10 friends,” “Share with a neighbor adopting a pet.” Want volunteers or in-kind items? Say exactly how to respond and how you'll make it easy.Advocacy belongs in your CTA toolkit too. This isn't about politics—it's about mission. Invite your community to “Stand with families—email your legislator today to support…” Frame the request around the people you serve and the outcome your programs create.Finally, close the loop with gratitude-based storytelling. Julia's favorite “Because of you” CTA wraps action and appreciation into one cadence: Because of you, 50 students received laptops; because of you, seniors got meals during outages. That framing reminds supporters they are the hero—today and tomorrow.Start with the action you need, frame it with authentic impact, and invite your community to step forward—now.  Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Matt Glazer arrives with runner's grit and a teacher's patience, asking nonprofit leaders to reconsider what “success” really means when the pace gets punishing and the stakes feel permanent. Blue Sky Partners, he explains, is built on human-centered design—strategy that starts with people, not paperwork—because “things happen with people, not to them.” That simple reframing lands like fresh air in a room that's been working on fumes.Matt traces the practical path from North Star to next step. Vision and mission still matter; values still guide. But unless the destination is explicit, inertia becomes the manager. He's seen organizations celebrate the wrong finish line—an amount raised rather than a result achieved—because the compass got swapped for a calculator. As he puts it plainly, too many teams make “the destination the money, not the mission,” and then feel failure in victory. His remedy: clarity that sequences choices—staffing, board composition, fundraising tactics—toward outcomes that last longer than a news cycle or a fiscal quarter.The episode turns intimate as he describes leading through funding freezes and furloughs, where procurement bottlenecks stall workforce programs and rapid-rehousing efforts. Chaos, he says, is part of the system; the question is how leaders respond. That response writes the culture: junior staff learn what urgency means, what boundaries are allowed, and whether development is an investment or an afterthought.Matt's answer is rhythm. He prefers “work-life rhythm” to balance, because real life surges and ebbs. Micro-rituals—a brain break after deep work, a morning run, hand-ground coffee, ten minutes of reading—become the scaffolding of steadiness. Leaders who model the pause (even leaving early after a 3 a.m. crisis) give permission for healthier habits and better listening. From there, skills compound: interns become staffers, staffers rise to managers, managers to directors, directors to chiefs.He doesn't preach from a distance. Matt shares his own burnout and mental-health journey, the season when achievement eclipsed wellbeing. That candor reframes self-care as operational sense, not personal luxury. The nonprofit sector is vast—and fragile—precisely because it relies on people whose calling meets constraints. Protect the people, he argues, and you protect the mission.This episode is an invitation to re-set: name the North Star, measure what matters, and let rhythm replace adrenaline. Strategy becomes humane. Operations become sustainable. And the work—housed within leaders who can breathe—can keep going for a long time. #TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitLeadership #HumanCenteredDesignFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Cybersecurity isn't just firewalls and tech jargon—it's people, habits, and everyday choices. Kicking off National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we bring together two voices who live this every day: Michael Nouguier, Partner, Cybersecurity Services at Richey May, and Tony Rehmer, Senior VP of IT at Children's Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals). Their message is clear: strong security starts with culture.Tony sets the tone early: “We take a major part, but it is everyone.” In other words, security isn't a back-office task—it's a shared responsibility. With hospitals, HIPAA, and multi-state operations in the mix, CMN Hospitals treats staff as the front line. That means training that actually sticks: shorter, “microlearning” nudges delivered through internal channels, real examples, and peer-to-peer conversations. As Tony puts it, “We never, ever shame a person.” Instead, they use supportive coaching after incidents to encourage fast reporting and continuous learning.Michael maps the big picture. Attacks have matured, and wishful thinking won't cut it. “Hope has then become a liability when it's your only defense.” The antidote? Make security part of the mission—top-down and day-to-day. That looks like updating mission statements (“do the work securely”), enabling multifactor for everyone (leaders included), and building a culture where staff quickly raise their hand when something feels off. He provides memorable visual: “Everybody needs a pitchfork… so they can do what they need to do to protect your organization.”The conversation gets real with a story from CMN Hospitals at the start of COVID-19. Threat actors bought credentials on the dark web, slipped into a mailbox, swapped a message body for malware, and re-sent it. Because staff had been invited into the security effort, the team was alerted within five minutes. That fast reporting changed the outcome. Culture wasn't a slogan; it was the safety net.Both guests agree: this is ongoing work. Threats keep shifting—from credit cards to ransomware and data theft—so messaging, training, and audience targeting must evolve too. Practically, that means appointing security champions, aligning IT with communications pros who can translate across departments, and weaving security into leadership conversations and board funding decisions.Takeaways you can use: treat people as partners, keep learning in snackable moments, celebrate fast reporting, and put “securely” in your strategy—not just in your tech stack.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Boards don't magically run themselves—and this lively discussion proves it. Strategist and facilitator Mary Kay Delvo of Inspiring Sight lays out a practical path for turning board service from a vague obligation into purposeful leadership. She starts with a truth we all feel: “If they knew better, they'd do better.” Most board members were never taught governance, so we must teach it—and then expect ownership.Mary Kay reframes board work with a memorable mantra: protect and direct. Every decision should answer, How does this protect the organization and or direct it? Pair that with her second keeper—“Noses in, fingers off”—and you've got a fast filter for staying strategic without micromanaging.Her signature Seasonal Board Cycle makes governance easy to see and easy to use:·        Spring – Plant and cultivate: recruit intentionally for perspectives you truly need.·        Summer – Engage effectively: spread work through committees so knowledge isn't concentrated.·        Fall – Revitalize and harvest: measure real impact, not just attendance.·        Winter – Recharge and look ahead: scan for change, refine strategies, and celebrate wins.On strategy, Mary Kay replaces the dusty plan with a Strategic Map—a living journey to a destination. The destination stays constant; routes change as conditions change. That's why boards must revisit the map, assess detours, and make smart adjustments with staff. After the board approves the map, staff craft an Understanding Impact Map with goals, success indicators, reviews, and board reporting—so every meeting tracks progress, learns from misses, and recommends course corrections.She also addresses the classic tension between boards setting direction and staff living the day-to-day. Her non-negotiable: senior leadership joins the board in mapping, and staff input is synthesized and heard. Otherwise there's no buy-in—and without buy-in, plans gather dust.Most of all, Mary Kay gives boards permission to be human. Seasons change. Routes shift. Progress accelerates when everyone knows the role they play and the questions they must ask. Or in her words: “Boards need to be responsible for their own succession, evaluation, and foresight.” When that happens, governance becomes energizing—and impact becomes visible.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Nonprofits talk about programs, fundraising, and boards—but rarely about how to build and lead a modern finance team. JMT Consulting's Taylor Bost and Samantha Tiso deliver a clear, practical playbook for turning finance from a back-office function into a strategic engine.Samantha reframes the relationship right out of the gate: “We view the finance department as the customer support for the rest of the company.” That posture—service, responsiveness, and clarity—reduces fear, boosts collaboration, and speeds decisions. It also demands better systems. As she puts it, “With the right system… that is possible if you have it structured the right way.” Translation: good data in, fast insight out.Taylor widens the lens to organization-wide alignment. Finance is not just P and L. It is grants, restrictions, repeat donor behavior, and cost to raise a dollar—metrics that reshape priorities across teams. That is why she pushes for a single ‘source of truth' and warns against siloed tools: when data is scattered, people end up re-keying information and fixing errors. Her reminder lands: “Every time a human's touching something… you're opening yourself up to room for error.”Measurement matters too—of the finance team itself. Taylor offers practical KPIs any CEO or board can use: monthly close time, volume of audit adjustments, and adoption of automation. If close cycles are drifting from 5–7 business days to 15–20, there is friction you can remove with better workflow, integrations, and roles.Governance shows up repeatedly. Samantha adds: “The C-suite needs to be looking at it. The board needs to be looking at it.” Confidence in numbers is confidence in the organization. And with grantmakers demanding more frequent and better-substantiated reports, integrated systems are no longer optional—they are essential.The quick-paced convo also tackles outsourced and remote finance. Success hinges on clear ownership of recurring tasks, documented deadlines, and transparent communication channels. Taylor's advice: break the monthly engine into parts—reconciliations, payment application, approvals—so nothing stalls.The icing on the cake? We get a preview of Innovate 2026 conference and JMT's three-decade journey—from early outsourced accounting to full-stack finance technology and process advisory. Samantha shares how Innovate blends training with thought leadership on grants, banking, interest rates, and board communication, ensuring every role—from CFO to controller to ops—walks away with practical upgrades.Big takeaway: modern nonprofit finance is a service mindset plus integrated tech plus shared accountability. Or in Taylor's words, “CFOs step a little bit more into the tech strategy role.” When finance leads with service and systems, everyone rows in the same direction—and mission moves faster.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Financial leadership is more than numbers—it's the heartbeat of nonprofit sustainability. In this Nonprofit Power Week finale of The Nonprofit Show, Regional Director Ellie Hume of Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC) brings clarity and candor to some of the most frequently asked financial questions. With an “Ask and Answer” format, the conversation covers everything from roles and responsibilities in financial leadership to the evolving landscape of fractional CFOs.Ellie sets the stage by redefining how we see finance in nonprofits: “Finance is literally the thread that draws every piece of the organization together because without it, nothing works.” She dismantles silos by urging finance professionals to engage deeply with program, marketing, and development teams to ensure that data isn't just accurate but also meaningful for decision-making.The discussion takes a practical turn as Ellie differentiates between controllers, comptrollers, and CFOs. She outlines the transactional oversight of controllers, the governmental nuance of comptrollers, and the strategic future-focus of CFOs. She also digs into the importance of internal controls, noting their role in fraud prevention and audit readiness.The lively session shifts into the governance space. How often should boards review and sign Conflict of Interest (COI) policies? Ellie's answer is clear: annually at minimum, but immediately when new conflicts arise. She gives a relatable example: a contractor-board member bidding on a capital campaign project must disclose and recuse themselves. Transparency, she argues, isn't optional—it's fiduciary duty.Ellie also challenges assumptions about credentials. Do finance directors need to be CPAs? Her answer: “You truly just need great accounting skills and a strategic mindset to help the organization use financial information to make good business decisions.” Certifications like CPA or CMA add credibility but don't replace experience or practical skill.The conversation also explores the rise of fractional leadership. Ellie frames fractional CFOs as an efficient way to access high-level talent at a fraction of the time or cost, particularly useful during transitions or to prepare for a new hire. Fractional arrangements, she explains, can be both short-term bridges and long-term partnerships.The conversation wraps with a powerful reminder for board members: ask tough financial questions. Are resources aligned with mission? What risks are we facing? Do internal controls hold up? And crucially—what training do board members need to responsibly interpret financial statements?#TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitFinance #FractionalCFOFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

In this Nonprofit Power Week conversation, we sit down with Jen Blasy, Manager at Your Part-Time Controller, to confront a topic many organizations would rather avoid: fraud in the nonprofit sector. Jen is unequivocal about the stakes: “Fraud has been a constant. It may look different, but it's still happening.” She explains why the sector's empathy, trust, and lean staffing models can unintentionally create exposure—especially in a remote and hybrid world where e-mail, text, and chat now mediate so many approvals and financial transactions.Jen moves past labels to show how fraud actually occurs. She refreshes the classic “triangle” of pressure, rationalization, and opportunity by adding capability and personal ethics, then wraps it all in culture. Tone at the top matters, she notes, because expectations, zero tolerance, and open conversation are often the only real deterrents. “We need to normalize the discussion of it so that it becomes more normal to talk about,” Jen adds, urging leaders to speak plainly with staff, boards, auditors, and yes—donors—about risks and responsibilities.Concrete scenarios make the message land. From stolen cards being “tested” on donation pages to refund requests designed to route money out through alternate channels, Jen shows how seemingly donor-friendly instincts can be weaponized. She pushes organizations to map their most common money-in and money-out pathways, document updated controls that fit remote workflows, and rehearse a response plan before a crisis. Who do you call first? Legal counsel, your insurer, your auditor, a board champion? Decide now, not mid-incident.The throughline is sector solidarity. Because incidents are underreported and under-prosecuted, offenders can quietly move from one organization to another. Jen challenges leaders to think beyond their own walls and treat transparency as community protection. Make fraud risk a standing board agenda item, ensure auditors' annual fraud conversations are substantive, and appoint an internal champion to coordinate policies, training, and continuous improvement.Fraud will not be eliminated, but its impact can be contained by stronger culture, modernized controls, and candid conversation. This episode equips executives, finance teams, and fundraisers alike to recognize where they're vulnerable and to act. As Jen frames it, progress starts when we stop whispering about fraud and start planning together. #TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitFinance #FraudPreventionFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Nonprofits want the speed of automation and the promise of AI—but Alicia Eastvold, Department Leader for Client Technology Solutions at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), explains why many orgs stall at the starting line: messy, bloated, and fragmented data. Her central thesis is simple and powerful: “We can't speed things up if it's not organized, and we can't write simple rules around it for where it belongs.” From the first minute, Alicia reframes “data hygiene” away from fear and toward usefulness—think Marie Kondo for systems: keep what serves the mission, archive the rest, and label everything so your “smart assistant” can actually find the hammer.Alicia maps two common failure modes: too much information (endless, unreadable reports) and poor structure (the same concept scattered across donor CRM, accounting, and spreadsheets). Both grind automation to a halt and produce costly mistakes in grant allocations, budgets, and forecasts. Her practical fix: decide what you need going forward, set a cutoff, inactivate legacy categories, and build simple, durable rules that can run 1,000 times. As she puts it, “Think big about what would happen if I had to do this thing a thousand times and plan your process that way.”A standout story: a client wanted a complex custom payroll allocation tool. After examining their cluttered chart and inconsistent rules, the team cleaned the system, documented clear rules, and discovered an off-the-shelf cost allocation tool that did the job at a fraction of the price. Takeaway: better structure often beats bespoke code.The stakes are real. Misallocations can snowball into seven-figure problems, finger-pointing between development and finance, and restricted funds that can't be used where they're most needed. Clean, rule-based data unlocks credible budgeting, forecasting, and the ability to ask funders for the right dollars—including flexible, unrestricted support. It also fuels data storytelling that boosts trust and investment: when leaders visualize program costs, funding gaps, and outcomes with clarity, credibility skyrockets.Bottom line: start today. Choose what matters for the next 12–24 months, archive the past, enforce naming and categorization rules, and think like an enterprise—no matter your size. Clean data returns time to your people, turns AI from buzz to utility, and powers decisions that move the mission! #TheNonprofitShow #DataHygiene #NonprofitAutomationFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Scenario planning often sounds like a board retreat buzzword, but in this Nonprofit Power Week episode it becomes a practical playbook with receipts. Director Tesa Piccioni of Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC) reframes uncertainty as a routine operating condition, not a meteor strike. Her thesis is disarmingly simple: “Let's take the un out of uncertainty and accept that certain things are going to happen. Let's prepare.” Preparation, she argues, isn't about predicting every storm—it's about building a habit of visibility and fast pivots.We start with the kitchen-table finance questions: What do you have? What do you owe? What's promised in and promised out? From there, the “boring” stuff—clean records, timely allocations, grant restrictions, and a rolling forecast—becomes the organization's superpower. As Tesa puts it, “If you have good information in, you get good information out—and that lets you act, not just react.” She expands the aperture beyond budgets: think balance sheet integrity, a just-in-case line of credit, and board fluency in financials so decisions don't stall during turbulence.The clever twist: scenarios aren't just bad-news drills. Tesa insists on planning for lucky breaks too—unexpected windfalls, mergers, or a connector board member who opens doors. That $1.5M surprise check? Without a plan, it's chaos with confetti. With a plan, it's momentum.Her practical framework pairs SWOT with three starter lenses: revenue up, revenue down, and environmental change. Master those, and you're not memorizing scripts; you're training reflexes. Equally important, it's not a finance-only sport. Program leads, executives, and boards need shared situational awareness so services continue even if the lights don't.Tesa links this directly to strategy: strategic planning sets the destination; scenario planning keeps the route open when reality tosses detours. Review cadence? Not annually—responsively. The moment regulations shift, funds lag, or opportunities appear, open the playbook and adjust. That rhythm replaces anxiety with calm, which is precisely what constituents deserve.The payoff is cultural: organizations stop operating in crisis posture and start operating with poise. Think FEMA's checklists, but for food banks, youth programs, and arts orgs—quiet competence that protects the mission on ordinary Tuesdays and extraordinary Thursdays alike.#TheNonprofitShow #ScenarioPlanning #NonprofitFinanceFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

A very timely discussion with Derick Dreher of Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC) about what a federal budget stalemate really means for everyday nonprofit operations. Rather than getting lost in D.C. noise, Derick helps translate the process into plain decisions leaders can make right now. He distinguishes the big-picture spending framework from the agency-level appropriations that actually move money—and why, when competing continuing resolutions stall, operational pain shows up fast in grants, cash flow, and communications.Derick is direct about timing and accountability. “Government shutdowns are very disruptive,” he notes, because grants staff are furloughed, portals can go dark, and payments pause. That doesn't suspend your obligations: “If you have a report due date during the shutdown, you better send it in.” When systems are down, mailing with receipt becomes a practical move. He also cautions against attempting full drawdowns before costs are incurred; federal awards are reimbursement-based, and advances (if any) require clear permission and careful documentation.The heart of the conversation is a workable to-do list. First, narrow your information sources: look to the National Council of Nonprofits, your state association, and trusted sector platforms rather than endless doom-scrolling. Second, contact program and fiscal officers now—before furloughs begin—to ask about extensions, submission methods, and any allowable advances. Third, communicate with stakeholders early so they don't fill the silence with assumptions: explain what services could shift, what your contingency looks like, and how supporters can help.On finance, Derick recommends tightening the cadence of cash views to weekly during uncertainty and building a scenario that assumes zero federal revenue for a period. That plan—reviewed with the board—becomes your “break glass” map if payments stall. Pair that with thoughtful revenue diversity (individuals, corporate, foundation, government) so a delay in one stream becomes a solvable liquidity challenge instead of an existential crisis.Derick also flags a recent executive order on federal grantmaking that may slow timelines and alter risk: added political approvals, a preference for lower indirect rates, and a new termination clause could change how awards feel on the ground, at least temporarily. Agencies are emerging from a mandated pause, and budgets remain unsettled—so expect ambiguity, double down on documentation, and keep your communications clear and proactive.The message is steady and usable: focus your inputs, talk to agencies now, model contingencies, and keep people in the loop. Preparedness here isn't alarmist—it's good stewardship under uncertainty. #TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitFinance #GrantManagementFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall turn board jitters into momentum with a simple, generous framework: four board roles that make fundraising feel natural, human, and actually fun. Julia sets the tone with a zinger that boards will remember: “This is not a no situation. This is a KNOW situation.” From there, Tony maps the path: “Prospector, cultivator, solicitor, and steward—four very simple roles that are really impactful.”Prospectors spark the pipeline by looking at real relationships—LinkedIn, circles of influence, workplace connections—to spot people who might love your mission. Julia notes this is the one job every board member can do without sweaty palms. Cultivators then step in as brand ambassadors, sharing stories, hosting small gatherings, and learning what lights a supporter up—without making the ask. Think hype team with heart!Next up: solicitors. Some board members truly enjoy asking (yes, unicorns exist). Tony clarifies that “strength in numbers” doesn't mean bringing a stranger to the ask; the right voice in the room is the one with an authentic relationship. Finally, stewards keep the glow going—handwritten notes, quick calls, social shout-outs, tours—feeding the feedback loop so staff and board hear what donors feel and see. Introverts rejoice: stewardship offers tons of low-pressure ways to shine.Julia and Tony keep it real about energy, fit, and growth. Not everyone will love every role, but everyone can contribute somewhere—and many will stretch into new skills with a little structure and encouragement. The pair celebrate their new book, The Architecture of Fundraising (artwork by Tony, applause from Julia), and salute Executive Producer Kevin Pace for nudging the dream into reality.Bottom line: pick your lane, keep the lanes moving, and talk about them at every board meeting with intention. When board members match their temperament to the right role, confidence rises, the process hums, and your mission gets the fuel it deserves.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Donor communication isn't a seasonal chore—it's the garden you tend all year. In this lively conversation, James Misner, Founder & Owner of The Kipos Group (Greek for “garden”), shows how consistent, human-centered messages keep supporters engaged, confident, and eager to act. His opening frame is memorable: schools send multiple reminders for an early bus drop-off because people are busy; nonprofits should be just as persistent—thoughtfully. As James says, “You should not be afraid to reach out to your donors… they need you to serve them by communicating frequently.”James introduces a practical “trust triangle”: organization, leadership, and impact. Rotate your content so supporters see a stable organization with real stories, a visible and thoughtful leader, and outcomes that are tangible. Variety matters—mix email, social, mail, live streams, and short videos so people meet you where they already are.He's blunt about retention. Too many nonprofits don't know their number, and the sector average still hovers around mid-40%. Causes of lapse you can't control (life events) exist, but others are absolutely in your hands: saying thank you promptly and showing outcomes clearly. “If you do that, and that alone, and you do that regularly, your donors are going to stick with you.” James shares a jaw-dropping example of unthanked five- and six-figure donors—proof that basics move mountains.To win in today's attention economy, flip the script: make the donor the main character. Replace “we did X” with “you made X possible,” pairing metrics with meaning. Anchor stories in universal emotions (worry, hope, pride, relief) so even complex issues feel relatable. Segment when useful, but never lose the thread of human feeling.James also adapts classic business wisdom for fundraising: keep donors, invite them to bring friends, grow generosity without eroding trust, and operate efficiently. The math is compelling—modest retention gains transform budgets, especially under $1M. The mindset is calmer, too: breathe, be thoughtful, and show up regularly with messages that serve.Bottom line: water the garden weekly. Use stories, data, leadership voice, and channel variety to build trust. Put the donor at the center, thank quickly, report outcomes often, and watch retention—and impact—bloom.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Nonprofit hiring is not matching the national headlines, says Katie Warnock, founder and president of Staffing Boutique. While recent reports suggest softer job numbers and higher unemployment, she's seeing the opposite on the ground: “We had a really slow two quarters, and we've been so busy basically since after July 4th weekend.” Executive searches are surging, selective contract roles are back, and LinkedIn is “popping” with real openings—especially across development and campaign management.The cost of churn remains steep. Katie points to a national onboarding average around $4,100—often higher in New York—once you factor technology, training, time from other staff, and HR overhead. Healthcare pressure is reshaping behavior, too: some nonprofits keep long-term temps on agency payroll to avoid absorbing benefits costs. That creates short-term budget relief but risks long-term stability.Compensation is a persistent constraint. Corporate teams can flex salaries across a department; nonprofits live inside board-approved budgets for one to three fiscal years. As a result, Katie urges leaders to compete with something other than base pay: flexible work design, professional development, wellness perks, and individualized schedules. “You do not have a recruitment plan unless you have a retention plan,” she says. That retention plan should be tailored—“a buffet” of options aligned to what your own people actually want.Flexibility is the top request. Remote or hybrid schedules remain a decisive factor for candidates (Katie notes that roughly a third of responses to a 1,000-person outreach said “I want a remote job”). Some organizations are testing a 9/80-style calendar to give every other Friday off. Others fund upskilling, reimburse gym memberships, expand fertility benefits, or simply allow staggered start/stop times to match how people work best.Still, leaders should balance flexibility with culture. Katie acknowledges that fully remote teams can lose the informal learning and creative lift that happens before and after in-person meetings. Board members are noticing the productivity difference. Her view: know your workforce, listen through regular check-ins (not just exit interviews), and publish options everyone can access—then let staff choose what fits their season of life.Finally, plan for burnout—especially in the C-suite where many leaders delayed retirement through COVID and are now exhausted. Encourage time off, normalize boundaries, and recognize that Q4's fundraising sprint amplifies strain. The bottom line: retention is strategy. Build it intentionally, budget for reality, and give your people modern ways to do their best work.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

AI isn't a magic wand—but it can absolutely help nonprofits do more with less when you understand what it is, where it fits, and how to use it wisely. In this energizing conversation, technology associate and CPA Christine Chacko from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC) explains the practical difference between automation and AI, when to use each, and how to keep data safe while you experiment and learn. As Christine puts it, “AI is actually a form of automation,” but it handles open-ended, judgment-heavy tasks while traditional automation follows clear, narrow rules. Think rules for categorizing expenses (automation) versus analyzing trends, benchmarking, and surfacing insights across donor segments (AI).Christine offers real nonprofit examples: blend automation to roll up donor data by type, then ask AI to interpret changes year over year, spot seasonality, or flag post-pandemic shifts. She shows how AI shines as a writing helper—drafting grant narratives tailored to funders' preferences or condensing verbose copy into crisp executive summaries—while reminding us to review outputs for voice, accuracy, and appropriateness. “We really like to think of it as a thought partner,” she says, perfect for bouncing ideas, testing messages, and clarifying complex financial stories for boards.Security matters, too. Christine's guidance is simple and strong: read the fine print, know what you opt into, and understand the difference between models embedded in trusted systems and those that reach out to other tools. She introduces agentic AI—systems that can act on your behalf (e.g., access Outlook, browse the web, schedule emails)—and explains why permissions, policies, and internal controls must come first. Hallucinations are less frequent in newer reasoning models, but review remains essential—especially for grants and external communications where stakes are high.Finally, Christine maps the near-term horizon: expect broader, more accessible agentic AI inside finance, IT, customer support, and daily workflows. Success won't come from tools alone; it comes from culture—clear use cases, communication, training, and solid processes. Used well, AI reduces drudgery (transcripts, notes, routine emails) so nonprofit teams can focus on judgment, relationships, and mission results.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Nonprofits lean on outside platforms to save time and stretch budgets—but those relationships can quietly expose sensitive donor, client, and payment data. In this episode, Senior Cybersecurity Advisor Parker Brissette of Richey May explains how to recognize and manage third-party software risk before it becomes tomorrow's headline. He starts with a simple lens: follow the data. Where is it stored? Who can touch it—directly or indirectly? Many teams only think about contracted vendors, but Parker widens the aperture to “shadow IT” and consumer tools staff use without formal approval. As he puts it, “Third parties is really anybody that can touch the data at any point in your business, whether you have an agreement with them or maybe not.”From privacy regulations (GDPR, CCPA) to sector-specific rules (HIPAA, PCI), nonprofits carry legal and reputational exposure the moment personal information enters their systems. Parker offers practical steps: inventory paid tools via your accounting system; ask, “If this vendor vanished tomorrow, what would break?”; and press vendors for proof—SOC 2 reports, ISO 27001, or completed security questionnaires. For organizations without a CIO, he recommends clear contracts and one non-negotiable safeguard: “The biggest thing that I recommend in any third-party engagement is setting an expectation of having cyber insurance, because that's a big protection for you financially.”AI enters the picture with both promise and peril. Consumer AI tools can learn from and retain your uploads, potentially exposing proprietary or personal information. Enterprise agreements (e.g., Microsoft Copilot) can offer stronger data protections, but only if configured and used correctly. Parker's guidance is pragmatic: don't ban AI; set guardrails, choose vetted tools, and train teams.Finally, he urges preparation and transparency. Incidents can happen—even with good controls. Donors and corporate funders expect frank communication about what protections exist and what happens if data is exposed. Build trust now by documenting safeguards, validating vendors, and rehearsing your response.You don't have to be a security expert to make smart choices—but you do need a map: know your systems, test your assumptions, ask vendors for evidence, and write risk into your contracts and budgets. That approach turns anxiety into action—and preserves the trust your mission depends on.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Giving Tuesday can feel like a moving target—but after this discussion with guest Jared Throneberry of Bloomerang, you'll have a clear, energizing plan. Jared blends tech savvy with a lived heart for service—Big Brothers Big Sisters, foster parenting since 2011, and community leadership—so his guidance lands with real-world credibility. His first message: you don't have to participate just because everyone else is. If the timing crowds your year-end efforts, your team is stretched thin, or the format doesn't fit your culture, sit it out without guilt. But if you choose to participate, choose to excel.Success begins with a specific purpose. “You want to have a specific campaign for this. You want to have a purpose,” Jared tells us. He urges organizations to set a reasonable, public goal and show visible progress with a giving thermometer. Momentum matters; keep supporters informed throughout the day and celebrate milestones. Matching gifts can amplify urgency—secure a partner that doubles donations during the 24-hour window.Communication is the engine. Schedule emails and posts before, during, and after the day. If social media is your lane, lean in. If your audience responds better to email or text, use those channels with clarity and brevity. Bloomerang's Giving Tuesday templates can help you prepare messages in advance, so your team is executing—not scrambling—on the day.Think beyond dollars. Jared proposes creative non-financial asks: diapers for a pregnancy center, items from an Amazon wish list, or a “share this post” action to expand reach. He even flips the script: host a donor appreciation touchpoint—coffee, breakfast, or a thank-you event—to strengthen relationships and set the tone for year-end. It's generous, memorable, and aligned with the spirit of the day.Competition can be fun, but mission comes first. Craft your campaign around a tangible need—a piece of equipment, a program milestone, or a defined impact story—so supporters feel the “why” in every update. As Jared reminds us, “Don't just give to us because it's Giving Tuesday. Give to us to this cause for this reason.” Choose intentionally, plan early, communicate often, and finish with gratitude. Do that, and #GivingTuesday becomes more than a date—it becomes a launchpad for deeper engagement.#TheNonprofitShow #GivingTuesday #NonprofitFundraisingFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Donor portfolios often feel like a mystery—part science, part art—and this episode of Fundraisers Friday peels back the curtain on what they really mean for nonprofit professionals. Cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall use their signature mix of storytelling and strategy to break down the “book of business” in a way that feels both practical and inspiring.Julia opens with candor about her first experience: “Somebody called me up and said, hey, I'd like to take you out to lunch because you're in my portfolio. And I was like, what?” That moment of confusion and discomfort becomes the jumping-off point for a discussion that many fundraisers will instantly recognize: donors rarely know about these tools, yet they shape so much of the relationship-building process.Tony points to the importance of seeing portfolios not as sterile lists but as vital instruments of stewardship and organizational learning. “These types of portfolios and this technology also allow us to monitor activity—not as a watchdog, but as a way to gauge the success of our strategies.” He reframes portfolios from something “icky” into something essential: a roadmap for deeper donor care.The duo walk through the practical side—averages for donor counts, segmentation across major gifts, planned giving, and annual donors—while weaving in human moments that give the conversation heart. Julia reflects on board experiences where donor binders were passed around over pizza, and Tony shares how his father's fire boots by the front door modeled volunteerism that still fuels his passion today.Data hygiene becomes another teaching moment. Julia compares sloppy data entry to “middle school health class,” driving home the reality that a CRM is only as good as what you put in it. Tony adds nuance by showing how even small details like recording gift frequency—not just dollar amounts—can shape how nonprofits honor commitment and longevity.The most surprising segment is the discussion of “portfolio divorce.” Sometimes a fundraiser and donor simply don't align—politically, personally, or stylistically—and it's healthier for the mission to transition that relationship elsewhere. Tony reminds us that “the mission is more important than your ego,” a guiding principle every nonprofit professional can keep close.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Host Julia Patrick welcomes Herb Paine, CEO of Paine Consulting Services, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about the future of nonprofit education and leadership development. With decades of experience as a consultant, author, and sector leader, Herb brings a sharp perspective on how nonprofit organizations are preparing—or failing to prepare—for an era defined by disruption and rapid change.Herb cautions that too much of today's training for nonprofit executives and boards is locked in repetitive, outdated models. “A lot of what's going on in these spaces of learning is performative,” he explains, “but it's about doing better, not really engaging in systemic change.” Instead of producing transformative leaders, he argues, programs often reinforce traditional management practices that no longer align with the pace of technological, cultural, and social change.At the heart of his critique is governance. Boards are often celebrated for attracting members with deep pockets or corporate influence, yet that influence can restrict meaningful innovation. Herb recalls moments when distinguished board members blocked advocacy efforts because their corporate employers opposed certain policies. “What I'm more concerned about,” Herb insists, “is rethinking who governs, who's at the table, and how do we engage those people most affected by the policies and actions of organizations.”The deep conversation also surfaces a persistent issue in nonprofit leadership: the lack of standardized education and pathways. Unlike law or architecture, nonprofit leadership does not begin with a common language or academic foundation. Many executives are promoted from program roles without the necessary grounding in governance, financial strategy, or community-driven leadership. This creates a cycle of tactical rather than strategic planning, leaving organizations vulnerable to financial overextension, disengaged boards, and leadership silos.Herb further challenges consultants and educators, urging them to move away from formulaic retreats and stale curricula. Instead, he calls for dynamic, collaborative learning environments that confront fundamental questions of mission, value, and equity. He even suggests a “training school for consultants” to ensure they are equipped not just to facilitate sessions, but to guide transformation.The discussion turns briefly to philanthropy, where Herb sees funders as potential catalysts for change. While acknowledging the restrictions that often shape grantmaking, he advocates for foundations to take bold steps in supporting leadership development and systemic reinvention..Ultimately you will find Herb's message is clear: the nonprofit sector must stop spinning its wheels in repetitive systems and start rethinking leadership, governance, and education in light of the future already upon us. His forthcoming book, Up Your Nonprofit, will expand on these themes, offering a roadmap for organizations ready to embrace change.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Social media strategist, author, and TEDx speaker, Robin Nathaniel, unpacks the connection between human relationships and digital platforms. With fresh ideas and candid energy, Robin introduces his SYNC Method—a framework designed to help nonprofits create authentic, meaningful engagement online.Robin explains, “S is for simple. Messages you can say in four words—don't say in twenty. Don't overcomplicate your story.” He challenges organizations to focus less on technical jargon and more on clarity. The “Y” stands for Yield—yielding to intention. Instead of just pushing events, campaigns, or donation requests, he urges nonprofits to ask themselves what feelings and actions they want their audiences to experience before hitting “post.”“N” is for Natural. Too often, Robin points out, organizations spend hours in the “makeup room,” worrying about lighting, graphics, and backgrounds. Instead, he recommends the “best friend test”: write and speak in a way your closest friend would understand. Finally, “C” is for Change It Up. Social media is not a box-checking exercise. Robin stresses adaptability: experiment, reset, and test new content approaches as platforms evolve.Nonprofits often overwhelm supporters by blasting out too much information at once. Robin's framework offers a more human and sustainable way forward. He also adds a crucial reminder: “The real measure isn't clicks or conversions. It's how you improve the lives of the people receiving your content.”The conversation takes a deeply personal turn when Robin shares his Joy Audit, developed after the tragic loss of his brother. By redefining his life through the lenses of Create, Connect, and Contribute, Robin discovered how to realign time and energy toward purpose—linking directly to nonprofit burnout, recognizing how leaders often wear multiple hats without space for renewal. Robin takes the time to lay out a Nonprofit Social Media Startup Plan:1.     Identify bandwidth and the right person for the role.2.     Define your true audience.3.     Learn where they spend time online.4.     Match the right team skills to the right medium.5.     Commit to six months of consistent effort before reassessment.Investing in social media is not optional—it's fundable, scalable, and mission-enhancing. This robust discussion blends strategic insight with heartfelt wisdom, offering nonprofits a playbook for building digital trust while protecting the joy and resilience of their teams. #TheNonprofitShow #SocialMediaStrategy #NonprofitCommunicationsFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Fundraisers Friday cohosts Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall dive into a thought-provoking conversation about the future of corporate sponsorships, the changing dynamics of nonprofit partnerships, and the launch of their new book, The Architecture of Fundraising.The show kicks off with Julia setting the tone for a discussion that is anything but light—because corporate sponsorships in 2026 will demand more strategy, accountability, and creativity than ever before.Tony adds his perspective, explaining how employee engagement has overtaken gala tables as the centerpiece of sponsorship. He explains: “When structured well, employee engagement helps a corporation develop emerging leaders through volunteerism, while strengthening teams through shared service experiences.”Julia expands the conversation by connecting sponsorships to employee retention, HR priorities, and brand loyalty. She shares real stories from her career, including the tough calls nonprofits face when lucrative corporate dollars come from companies with misaligned values. Together, the cohosts explore how consumer behavior and corporate reputation intersect with philanthropy, reminding us that today's donors and customers expect alignment of values, not just a logo on a program.The episode doesn't shy away from controversy. DEIB funding withdrawals, politically charged sponsorships, and “cancel culture” pressure on corporations have already reshaped the landscape. Julia tells of an advisory board that lost funding simply for using DEIB language, while Tony points to Pride organizations nationwide that saw longtime sponsors retreat. Yet both emphasize that diversification of revenue, transparent policies, and mission alignment are essential for weathering these storms.Technology and data are also at the forefront. Sponsors are no longer satisfied with anecdotes or temporary goodwill; they want measurable outcomes. Julia and Tony challenge nonprofits to track impact rigorously, report frequently, and integrate sponsor ROI into community stories. The conversation makes clear: numbers, stories, and values all matter—and nonprofits that can weave them together will win long-term partnerships.This episode motivates nonprofits to rethink how they approach corporate sponsors. The message is unmistakable: the future of sponsorships is about long-term vision, measurable impact, and authentic alignment.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Step into a conversation that goes right to the heart of nonprofit operations: banking relationships, establishing credit, and securing financial footing for long-term stability. Guest Jason Garcia, CEO of Holdings, a bank just for nonprofits, offers real guidance on how nonprofits can think like businesses when it comes to financial credibility and strategy.Jason begins by sharing his vision for HoldingsForGood.com: “Our hope and mission is to be the dedicated partner for nonprofits across the U.S. and help them achieve their goals and increase their chances of success in their missions.” With a career built in community banking and startup finance, Jason brings a sharp perspective to an area where many nonprofits struggle—creditworthiness.The conversation turns to the importance of establishing a credit strategy early. Jason advises that nonprofits should begin as soon as possible, even if they aren't immediately seeking loans or credit lines: “The best time to talk to different credit providers is when you don't need it.”Practical steps emerge throughout the conversation, cohosted by Ellie Hume and Julia Patrick. Building a strong permanent file of organizational documents—EIN, IRS determination letter, bylaws, state registrations—was identified as essential. Ellie emphasizes that many nonprofits have these materials but often can't locate them when needed. Jason describes how physical addresses (not PO boxes) are becoming non-negotiable due to fraud prevention measures, a reminder of how operational details intersect with financial access.This important discussion expands beyond traditional lines of credit. Vendor relationships, government contracts, and reporting to credit bureaus such as Dun & Bradstreet, Experian, and Equifax were positioned as overlooked opportunities to build a financial profile. Ellie points to the frustrations nonprofits face when executive directors are forced to tie personal social security numbers to organizational credit cards.What will be clear is that banking relationships are not just transactional; they're strategic. From choosing the right accounts and systems that sync seamlessly with accounting platforms, to knowing when to push for the removal of personal guarantees, nonprofits must think about finance as a forward-looking strategy rather than an emergency fix.The episode closes with an energizing call from Jason: operate like a business. By being proactive with credit, asking the right questions of financial partners, and benchmarking against peer organizations, you can position your NPO for resilience!Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

We're exploring a powerful theme that affects every nonprofit: the necessity of diversifying revenue streams—with cohosts Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall. While fundraising is often viewed as a singular number to hit, Tony ignites the convo with, “If we are focused on putting everything in one basket, we're putting our programs and services at risk.”Together, they walk through the “lanes” of nonprofit revenue: major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grants, and planned giving—each requiring different skill sets but all anchored in one common thread: relationships. Tony's thinking. . .  “True success in fundraising rests in your ability to build relationships, even in grantmaking where you may need an invitation from a foundation.” Julia echoes the reality that planned giving, while unpredictable, can yield transformational gifts, while corporate sponsorships often demand careful alignment between mission and brand values.The informative conversation covers monthly giving programs, now empowered by digital tools. What once felt arduous is now a viable, forecastable stream. Monthly donors often “testing” an organization with smaller contributions before stepping into major gift or legacy conversations—a fact savvy nonprofits should embrace. Julia points out how this incremental giving builds a sense of community: donors rowing in the same direction together, proving that even $10 a month can matter.‘Cause Marketing' receives sharp focus. Tony explains that beyond revenue, its real value is in brand awareness. “What is the soft dollar value of the exposure your nonprofit gains?” he asks, while cautioning that consumers demand authentic mission alignment; token efforts rarely shift donor or customer behavior without deeper resonance.The discussion wraps with a thoughtful action strategy: how nonprofits allocate time and talent across lanes. For many, events consume disproportionate staff energy—sometimes to the detriment of post-event stewardship. Tony clarifies how staff specialization matters too—grant writers are not gala planners—and leaders must invest in professional development and digital tools to support diversification.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Dr. Stephanie Rose-Belcher, COO of JMT Consulting, and Kristen Stine, HR Director at JMT Consulting, explore the real financial and human costs of nonprofit staffing. This discussion blends finance, HR, and leadership into a compelling narrative about how organizations can protect their missions by rethinking how they hire, onboard, and retain talent.Stephanie begins by framing the evolution of nonprofit finance within a technological context. Reflecting on the industry's shift from ledgers to AI-enabled platforms, she notes: “Technology lets finance leaders be much more of a strategist than ever before, not just someone crunching numbers and submitting reports.”, capturing a fundamental truth: today's nonprofit financial leaders are central to strategy, not just compliance.Kristen brings the HR dimension into focus by quantifying the staggering financial cost of turnover. “According to the Deloitte survey, we're looking at anywhere between 50 and 200% of the annual salary of a person to recruit them, onboard them, and get them up to speed,” she warns. Beyond dollars, she points to the strain turnover places on morale, workload, and culture. Investing in retention, she argues, is not a “nice to have” but a fiscal necessity.The discussion highlights how onboarding inefficiencies further magnify these costs. While skilled professionals may shorten the curve, Stephanie cautions that “to get to mastery and really know the organization and its nuances, it takes a hard four months for an experienced person and six months or more for others.” Without deliberate investment in training, mentorship, and culture-sharing, nonprofits risk losing ground during this critical period.Both guests emphasize that solutions need not be costly. Flexible scheduling, sabbaticals, leadership development, and even creative benefits platforms can create workplaces that people want to stay in. They stress the importance of tailoring approaches across generations: younger staff may prioritize professional growth, while older or part-time staff may value flexible time. Equity, transparency, and HR creativity, they argue, can reconcile these different expectations.The episode closes with a look ahead to JMT's Innovate 2026 conference in Washington, DC—an event designed to unite finance leaders around not just technology, but broader trends shaping nonprofit leadership and sustainability.This conversation challenges nonprofit leaders to view HR and finance as inseparable. Recruitment and retention decisions are not only about culture—they are also about stewardship of resources, organizational stability, and the ability to serve missions with consistency and strength.#TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitLeadership #HRandFinanceFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Leadership isn't about perfection—it's about presence, awareness, and courage. That's the central message of this sparkling conversation featuring Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, CEO of Cultivate for Good, co-host Ellie Hume of Your Part-Time Controller,  and co-host Julia Patrick. Together, they unpack what it means to truly “read the room” and lead with authenticity.Wendy brings her trademark candor and wisdom to the conversation. Affectionately called the “Elephant Slayer”, she reminds us that every meeting has unspoken dynamics—and ignoring them doesn't make them disappear. “There's always one in the room and it doesn't get any smaller. We've got to be able to read that,” she offers. Her advice? Pause, acknowledge what's happening, and create space for truth to emerge. Far from being awkward, this honesty often gives others permission to voice what they're feeling too.Ellie adds valuable perspective from the accounting and numbers world, where emotional intelligence isn't always the strongest suit. Her questions prompt Wendy to outline practical strategies—like intentionally setting tone before a meeting, clarifying expectations, and practicing emotional awareness in social settings as a warm-up for boardroom discussions. It's not about being naturally gifted; as Wendy emphasizes, “Spoiler: it didn't come natural to anyone. This girl is working on it all the time.” Growth comes from steady practice.The trio also explore the modern challenge of hybrid and virtual meetings. Cameras off? Silence in the Zoom squares? Wendy pushes back against the false assumption that silence equals agreement. Instead, she encourages leaders to embrace pauses, ask clarifying questions, and bring remote participants into the conversation first. It's about building connection and respect, not just plowing through an agenda.Julia raises a deeply personal question: can seasoned leaders in their 60s really evolve? Wendy's answer is refreshingly hopeful—yes. Tools like the “Five Voices” framework help leaders understand their natural style while intentionally developing their weaker “voices.” Courageous leadership is about humility and transparency, she argues. Admitting to your team that you're learning and evolving isn't weakness—it's a strength that inspires trust.For emerging leaders, Wendy's advice is equally empowering: don't wait for perfection. Ask questions, seize small opportunities to lead projects or meetings, and allow your leadership style to grow alongside your organization. If you outgrow your current space, that's not failure—it may simply mean it's time to align with a new environment that fits your values and vision.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

In a conversation that feels more like a real-time crisis briefing than a casual update, Derick Dreher, Government Funding Department Leader at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC),  breaks down the latest turbulence in federal funding. If your nonprofit depends on government grants—or even corporate partnerships—you'll want to pay attention.Derick opens with a stark truth: “Change is the only constant these days.” Over the past several months, nonprofits have faced an unprecedented series of delays, freezes, and sudden shifts in the flow of federal dollars. From an outright funding pause by the Office of Management and Budget to agency-specific cancellations and now a new executive order forcing a 30-day grant-making pause, the reliability nonprofits once counted on has been replaced with a precarious “rolling boil” of uncertainty.But it's not just about delays. The newly passed One Big Beautiful Bill—a sprawling 900-page spending package—introduces a corporate giving floor of 1% of taxable income. The concern? Many corporations have historically given just under that threshold, meaning some could cut giving entirely, while others may “bunch” donations into large, infrequent gifts, creating cash flow whiplash for nonprofits.Derick also tackles a thorny, politically charged issue: DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) language in grant applications. After an executive order forbidding “illegal discrimination” without clearly defining it, some nonprofits began scrubbing websites and documents out of fear of jeopardizing awards. New DOJ guidance offers more clarity, but each organization will need to work with legal counsel to understand the implications.Equally eye-opening is a startling public perception gap: only 5% of Americans believe they've interacted with a nonprofit, despite most having lifelong contact with them—from hospitals and schools to museums and sports leagues. Derick urges nonprofits to continually communicate their value to stakeholders and elected officials, noting that state and local funding often originates from the federal level.Looking ahead, he's watching two key indicators: the volume of grants listed on grants.gov (a barometer of federal stability) and the progress of 12 appropriations bills that must pass before October 1 to avoid a government shutdown. His advice? Increase the frequency of cash flow projections, consider lines of credit, and engage corporations now—before the 2026 deduction changes kick in.Derick's message is both calming and urgent: understand what you can control, seek accurate information, and act strategically to protect and position your nonprofit to thrive, even in a climate where certainty is in short supply.#TheNonprofitShow #NonprofitFunding #GovernmentGrantsFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Has your nonprofit ever had a simulated break-in to test your digital defenses? If not, you may already have an intruder inside!Cyberattacks aren't just happening to big corporations—they're happening to nonprofits every day. And far too many organizations have no idea they've been breached until months later. Cybersecurity expert Michael Nouguier, Partner of Cybersecurity Services at Richey May, pulls back the curtain on the urgent, often-overlooked practice of penetration testing—known as “pen testing.” His message is blunt: if your nonprofit hasn't done one, you may already be compromised.Michael explains that a pen test is essentially a real-world simulation of a cyberattack, conducted by ethical hackers to expose weaknesses before malicious actors exploit them. “It's like hiring a home inspector before you buy a house,” he says, “but instead of finding leaky pipes, we're finding the digital doors and windows you've accidentally left wide open.” These gaps can exist in email, donor databases, websites, payment systems—anywhere sensitive information lives.The process starts with scoping—identifying your organization's tech environment, third-party tools, and data flows. From there, ethical hackers gather open-source intelligence (OSINT) to see what information about your nonprofit is publicly available, then attempt to exploit any vulnerabilities found. This may involve phishing attempts, network access attempts, or probing for weaknesses in online applications. Post-exploitation, the team determines how far they can move within your systems—accessing donor records, financial data, or confidential client files.The findings are compiled into a detailed report, along with a letter of assessment that can be shared with insurers or contractual partners. In many industries, including healthcare, justice, and education, annual pen testing isn't optional—it's required by regulation or by contract. Yet, as Michael warns in this episode, many nonprofits sign agreements without realizing they're agreeing to perform such tests.Waiting too long is costly. IBM research shows that proactive security measures can save organizations over $200,000 per breach. On the flip side, skipping pen testing can raise your cyber insurance premiums—or get your coverage denied entirely. And because updates, new software, and staffing changes continually introduce new risks, pen testing isn't a one-and-done task—it's an annual checkup for your organization's digital health.Michael also touches on the human factor. When testing social engineering risks, you often don't alert staff in advance—because real attackers certainly won't. The goal is to create realistic conditions, not staged ones.This conversation should serve as a wake-up call: penetration testing is not an optional luxury—it's a frontline defense. Whether you hold donor payment information, confidential case files, or sensitive program data, you can't afford to leave your cybersecurity to chance.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Online giving isn't just the future of fundraising—it's the now! Emily Kelly, National Accounts Manager at Bloomerang, delivers a practical, energizing roadmap for nonprofits to raise more money online—without adding more stress to already full plates.This conversation is for any nonprofit ready to increase online giving, improve donor retention, and strengthen relationships in a digital-first world. Emily blends practical “fix it today” steps with a bigger vision for creating donor experiences that inspire giving, year after year.Emily's passion for relationship-building is woven through every tactic she shares. With a background in marriage and family therapy, she sees fundraising not as transactions, but as an opportunity for deeper human connection. “The power of please and thank you is so much more powerful than anything else,” she begins—a reminder that technology should serve relationships, not replace them.Her first piece of advice is deceptively simple: make sure your donate button works. Too often, organizations overlook this basic step. Then, view your donation page through the eyes of a first-time visitor—would you feel compelled to give? Is it clear, inviting, and emotionally engaging? Placement matters too. The donate button should be easy to spot, ideally at the top of your page, without forcing visitors to search for it.Emily urges nonprofits to offer multiple payment options—credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH, and even Venmo—to meet donors where they are. Each generation prefers different tools and limiting payment methods risks losing potential gifts.She also challenges organizations to reimagine the donor experience for online gifts. Segmentation is key—tailoring acknowledgments by gift size, donor type, or relationship history. A generic thank-you isn't enough; donors want to feel seen and valued. Communication preference tracking—whether donors prefer email, phone, text, or snail mail—helps build authentic connections and increase retention.And yes, the old-fashioned phone call is making a comeback. Emily shares research showing that calling a first-time donor within 24–48 hours makes them four times more likely to give again. Whether done by staff, volunteers, or board members, these calls create goodwill on both sides—reigniting board member engagement while deepening donor trust.Emily's philosophy is clear: treat every gift, whether $50 or $50,000, as the start of a relationship. One-time gifts can become long-term commitments—or even legacy gifts—when nonprofits follow up with gratitude, intentionality, and consistent communication.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Connected TV (CTV) advertising isn't just for big brands anymore—it's an emerging frontier for nonprofits to tell their stories on the biggest screen in the house.  Kris Johns, CEO and founder of AdGood, shared how his organization is unlocking unused, high-quality streaming ad space for nonprofits—at up to 70% off market rates.AdGood works directly with major publishers and platforms to collect unfilled “ad slates” (those silent filler moments you see while streaming) and make them available exclusively to nonprofits. “We sit at the bottom of the ad stack,” Kris explains, “so anything they don't fill, we get access to.” This programmatic approach allows nonprofits to run CTV campaigns with the same flexibility and robust reporting as they would on Meta or Google—except now, they're on television.CTV offers a unique blend: the emotional impact of a full-screen, in-home experience with the precise targeting of digital marketing. Nonprofits can target down to a single ZIP code, choose dayparts, and even adjust campaigns mid-flight for maximum return. It's an opportunity to put your mission front and center while supporters are engaged with content they love.For organizations without in-house production capabilities, AdGood has built a self-serve AI-powered ad generator. In just minutes, nonprofits can create a 30-second, TV-ready spot by entering their website URL, swapping images or scripts, and even translating into 30+ languages. Ads can be hyper-local (with a budget starting at just $250) or scaled nationally with managed services.Kris emphasizes that this isn't just about filling empty ad space—it's about empowering nonprofits with tools and access they've historically been priced out of. AdGood is also piloting full attribution reporting to track which viewers saw an ad, visited a nonprofit's site, and ultimately donated.From small-town initiatives to nationwide campaigns, the flexibility and affordability of CTV through AdGood could change how nonprofits think about media. As Kris puts it, “Our goal is to turn marketing from a cost center to a profit center for nonprofits.”Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

This high-energy episode of Fundraisers Friday is packed with smart, actionable tips to help nonprofit leaders reignite board engagement—especially when things feel slow or disconnected. Cohosts Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall bring clarity, candor, and creativity to the perennial challenge of motivating board members to actively participate in fundraising.“If board members understand their roles and are equipped with tools, they can feel confident and proud to help raise funds,” starts Tony. He encourages nonprofits to start with clear job descriptions and fundraising expectations—not as pressure, but as empowerment.Julia adds heart to the conversation with a powerful reflection: “When we elevate one board conversation, that knowledge often travels with members into other parts of their community.” This ripple effect of board engagement is a golden opportunity for nonprofits to build momentum well beyond their own walls.They cover eight key strategies, including:·        Revisiting board policies and roles in fundraising·        Turning mission moments into impact moments·        Using real dollar amounts (not percentages!) to make financial urgency tangible·        Engaging board members in grant applications and partnership opportunities·        Celebrating donor wins and learning from not-so-great experiences·        Tapping into each member's personal “why” to foster deeper commitmentOne particularly refreshing approach? Encouraging board members to share their successes—and even their mistakes—so others can learn and grow together. “We've all had experiences as donors, good and bad,” says Tony. “Sharing both helps us create better outcomes and stronger relationships.”You'll also hear a compelling conversation about how board members can fill various fundraising roles—prospector, cultivator, solicitor, or steward—so no one feels forced into uncomfortable territory. “Every board member can participate in at least one of these ways,” Tony reminds us.This episode is perfect for any nonprofit leader preparing for a seasonal push or looking to infuse new energy into board culture. With warmth and wisdom, Julia and Tony show that reigniting your board starts with real connection, clarity of purpose, and honest conversation.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

What if our best intentions were doing more harm than good? In this compelling and unflinchingly honest conversation, global humanitarian consultant Jen Brewer, Vice President at Care for Life, challenges the deeply ingrained dynamics behind the so-called “hero complex,” also known as the white savior complex.Jen's lived experience—once showing up with “20 suitcases full of stuff to give” to Guatemalan communities—serves as the jumping-off point for this raw and revealing discussion about what real help looks like. With decades of international service work, Jen isn't interested in guilt trips or shame tactics. Instead, she invites a shift from paternalistic giving to genuine empowerment.Care for Life's Family Preservation Program in Mozambique provides a concrete model. Rather than offering handouts or short-term missions, they employ local staff to walk with entire communities through multi-year journeys of education, self-reliance, and sustainable growth. Jen makes clear: this isn't about swooping in and saving people—it's about listening, partnering, and trusting communities to lead themselves.“The only tweak we needed to make,” Jen explains, “was to train their doctor—rather than replace them.” That small shift encapsulates her broader message: good intentions aren't enough. Without humility, reflection, and a willingness to step back, well-meaning aid can unintentionally dismantle local economies, erode agency, and reinforce dependency.She contrasts acute and chronic interventions, urging nonprofits to ask hard questions: Are we helping during a crisis—or perpetuating a crisis mindset for long-term issues like poverty? Are donors prepared to support systemic change instead of photo-worthy quick fixes?The impactful discussion also surfaces the unspoken cultural programming behind American charity impulses—whether it's collecting coats for refugees or defaulting to physical donations over economic solutions. It's not that action is wrong, Jen argues. It's that the type of action matters—and often needs recalibrating.Jen is not interested in charity that centers the giver. Instead, she calls for philanthropy that trusts and equips communities to solve their own problems—on their own terms. As she puts it, “If I have a program that requires me to run it, it's a failure in progress.”Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Exploring how nonprofit fundraisers can adopt the disciplined mindset and tools of the startup world— with special guest Jeffrey Fidelman, CEO of Fidelman & Co..  Jeffrey, whose firm delivers "fundraise-as-a-service" to early-stage companies and emerging managers, shares a structured and data-informed approach to relationship-building that challenges many long-held assumptions in the nonprofit sector. This fascinating discussion will challenge nonprofit professionals to rethink the very architecture of their fundraising systems by borrowing proven tactics from startups—without sacrificing the human touch.At the core of Jeffrey's message is the idea that fundraising is a systematic process, not a single pitch or magical conversation.Jeffrey maps out a dual-layer approach to fundraising: the quantitative layer, involving workflow, analytics, and consistency; and the qualitative layer, which focuses on personalization, trust, and long-term relationship development. He draws comparisons between nonprofit fundraising and sales funnels in the for-profit world, urging nonprofits not only to expand the top of the funnel, but to improve conversions at the bottom—where so much potential is lost.A key takeaway for nonprofit leaders is the importance of tech-enabled tracking and experimentation. Jeffrey introduces the concept of hypothesis-driven outreach, advising organizations to run structured experiments over 60–90 days and adjust based on data. He explains how simple tools like Google Sheets or CRM platforms like HubSpot and Zoho can help nonprofits monitor donor progression, email open rates, and reply rates—unlocking previously invisible insights.This rich conversation also addresses transparency, both internally and externally. Jeffrey critiques the secrecy often surrounding fundraising data within nonprofit teams and stresses the importance of shared pipelines and consistent communication. As he explains, success lies in setting expectations early and “being an extension of the team, not a black box.”On segmentation, Jeffrey contrasts mass marketing with targeted outreach, arguing that larger gifts demand deep personalization. He recommends nonprofits resist the impulse to blanket every potential donor and instead invest time in researching each prospect—"go on their LinkedIn, learn about them”—to craft meaningful connections.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

In a sector that thrives on purpose yet struggles with burnout, Paul Hanscom, Chief Growth Officer at Ewald Consulting, unpacks what happens when nonprofits become risk-averse after a crisis—and the surprising costs of playing it safe.This conversation is a powerful challenge to nonprofit leaders: don't retreat. The world is still changing—rapidly—and the organizations that will thrive are those who remember what got them through the last storm and are brave enough to face the next one head-on.Paul, a Certified Association Executive (CAE), begins with a reflection on 20 years of working with nonprofit boards and executives. His insights span not just the tactical, but the philosophical: What is lost when an organization, once agile and responsive during the pandemic, slips back into indecision and overly cautious governance?As Paul notes, “We've opened up people's eyes and created new opportunities… they don't want to go back to the way things used to be.” This sentiment fuels the entire conversation—a reminder that organizations grew stronger by being nimble, collaborative, and bold during the pandemic. Now, many are at risk of losing that momentum.Paul addresses executive burnout and decision fatigue. Boards are often leaning harder on Executive Directors and CEOs, who are caught between exhausted staff and cautious boards. As Paul puts it, “The turnover rates for executive directors have never been higher.” This reality points to the need to reassess organizational culture—not with fear, but with clarity and courage.This dynamic discussion considers the root of the sector's current malaise. Is it fatigue? Fear? Habit? The answer, Paul suggests, lies in building a risk-aware culture—where calculated experimentation is embraced, failure is allowed within reason, and data is balanced with decisiveness. He shares a compelling example of a board reluctant to shift from a “C” level initiative to an “A” one, simply out of fear they'd land at an “F.” The longer they waited, the more performance declined. It's a parable many in the sector will recognize.Perhaps the most valued idea comes toward the end: technology will change, funding will fluctuate, but what remains is the need for belonging. Paul makes the case that associations—and nonprofits writ large—are uniquely positioned to fulfill that human desire for connection, identity, and authenticity. “There's nothing quite like it elsewhere,” he says, “and the clearer we can communicate that to the world, the more we resonate.”Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Explore a rarely discussed intersection in nonprofit leadership: the power of interim roles in development and fundraising, with Jeffrey R. Wilcox, President of Interim Executives Academy, and Joan McBride, CEO of GreatRake, McBride and Associates. This conversation charts new ground—arguing that interim fundraising leaders are not temporary placeholders but catalysts for cultural and operational evolution.Jeffrey emphasizes that nonprofit organizations often treat development challenges as process issues, when in fact, they require deeper organizational change. “We don't need a consultative intervention,” he declares. “We need an evolutionary capacity-building process.” Interim development professionals, he explains, are trained not just to execute fundraising tasks but to reimagine philanthropy as a shared, embedded function across an organization.Joan shares her own trajectory—from consultant to interim executive—and reinforces the value of a full-year commitment in interim roles. This timeframe allows for relationship-building, stabilization, and insights into the entire annual fundraising cycle—giving successor hires a strong foundation for long-term success. She points to one assignment where her interim groundwork helped a permanent hire stay three years—well beyond the national average of 19 months for development directors.The episode also confronts difficult truths about turnover, burnout, and unrealistic expectations in fundraising leadership. Jeffrey notes that many fundraisers are “kicked to the curb” despite their talent. His solution? An intentional training program rooted in 14 core protocols for sustainable philanthropic leadership. These protocols are designed to ensure that interims leave behind a strengthened infrastructure and a clear pathway for future leaders.The discussion widens to explore systemic issues—from federal funding cutbacks to AI's impact on communication, from work-life balance across generations to equitable fundraising in diverse communities. What ties it all together is Jeffrey's passionate statement: “Interims have to bring an organization a commodity called hope.” More than strategists or managers, interim leaders are meant to restore belief in what's possible.This fast moving episode reframes interim development leadership not as a stopgap, but as a proactive, strategic solution to one of the sector's most persistent challenges: building a culture of philanthropy that endures.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

For nonprofit leaders who want to improve internal communication, build a culture of philanthropy, and empower their entire team to support fundraising goals, cohosts Julia C. Patrick and Tony Beall spark an important and timely conversation about the often-misunderstood role of fundraising teams—and how to break down the organizational silos that hold back true impact.With wit, warmth, and wisdom, the pair explores why internal teams—from programming to finance to marketing—need to better understand the full picture of development work. From donor stewardship to impact selling, the development role is far more than gala invitations and lobster dinners. “Fundraising is everyone's business,” Tony shares, “because all departments contribute to the promises we make to donors.”The cohosts lay out how development professionals are often misperceived as simply social butterflies, when in fact their work is relationship-building, mission-selling, and impact-driving. They offer smart, actionable suggestions for fostering stronger internal collaboration—such as shared Google Docs for monthly updates and scheduled cross-departmental briefings—to ensure all team members know what's happening across the organization.Julia and Tony also discuss the powerful role of storytelling, customer service, and donor engagement, comparing nonprofit stewardship to luxury brand experiences. They encourage staff to become donors themselves—to feel what it's like to be thanked (or not) and to understand the emotional side of giving.They wrap up with a compelling case for emotional intelligence in leadership. Julia recounts a story where a development director felt deflated after discovering their C-suite colleagues didn't know the annual fundraising goal—only to realize that fear, not apathy, was behind the silence. “There are no dumb questions when we're trying to serve our community better,” Tony adds. 00:00:00 Fundraisers Friday welcome  00:01:52 Why the development team is misunderstood 00:03:05 The myths of fundraisers and public perception 00:04:15 What “impact selling” really means 00:05:23 Long-term donor strategy over one-time wins 00:06:58 Luxury branding as a model for donor stewardship 00:08:17 Sharing development metrics across teams 00:10:26 Breaking down internal silos in nonprofits 00:11:49 Why program teams and fundraisers must align 00:15:51 Building a true culture of philanthropy 00:18:05 How small gifts test donor engagement 00:21:06 Applying customer service to donor relationships 00:25:01 Emotional intelligence in nonprofit leadership Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

It's budget season for nonprofits, and Dr. Stephanie Rose-Belcher, Chief Operating Officer at JMT Consulting, brings powerful insight to the table in this energizing session with host Julia Patrick. With over three decades of nonprofit sector expertise, JMT helps finance departments move from back-office cost centers to proactive strategy drivers—and Stephanie shows us how. Whether you're preparing for the fiscal year or completely rethinking how your nonprofit builds financial strategy, this episode offers more than insight—it gives you a roadmap.“We need to stop thinking of budgets as fixed and start treating them like what they really are—a living, breathing plan of action,” Stephanie begins. This instructive conversation lays out exactly how nonprofit leaders can reframe budgeting as a collaborative, mission-aligned process rather than a one-time spreadsheet task.The conversation opens by emphasizing the necessity of starting with a strategic plan. Before anyone touches a budget template, the entire leadership team needs to align on long-term goals, funding mechanisms, and sustainability models. Only then does budgeting begin—with intention and purpose.Stephanie urges nonprofit leaders to ditch the siloed approach. Budgeting shouldn't live with just the CFO. It must involve department heads, development teams, and the board to ensure full alignment between goals and resources. This transparency avoids the all-too-common tension that arises when program and development departments operate without a shared roadmap.One standout tip: Build not one, but three budgets—best case, expected case, and worst case. “This isn't just a COVID-era idea,” Stephanie asserts. Scenario planning is a best practice that strengthens resilience and foresight.Stephanie also shares how benchmarking and key performance indicators (KPIs) can become tools for empowerment, not just financial oversight. When done right, they spark innovation and teamwork. Monthly forecasting and open communication about KPIs help leadership make smarter decisions and enable course corrections before things go off track.But transparency must be handled with care. Stephanie offers practical advice on sharing financial realities without inciting panic. By pairing clear updates with actionable solutions, organizations can rally their teams around shared responsibility instead of fear.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

How do you lead when everything feels uncertain? Carina Santa Maria, CEO of Shelter Youth and Family Services, shared a bold, forward-thinking approach to nonprofit leadership in challenging times. From weathering funding impasses and the pandemic to rethinking donor relationships and pioneering new models of care, Carina proves that crisis can be a catalyst for transformation.Shelter-Inc.org, based outside Chicago, has served vulnerable youth and families for 50 years. Yet Carina candidly shares that despite its legacy, the organization has had to reinvent itself multiple times. Whether navigating Illinois' state budget freeze or pivoting during COVID-19, the common thread has been resilience backed by strategy. “We had to pivot and find the resources to make sure those services were delivered,” Carina says.But this conversation is about more than survival—it's about rising. Carina reveals how she and her team moved away from event-based fundraising and focused on cultivating deep donor relationships. The result? A record-setting $1.8 million raised in one year—without galas or trivia nights. This change didn't come easy, but it paid off with greater mission alignment and long-term investment from supporters.Carina also discusses the organization's next bold chapter: building Illinois' first DCFS-approved group home for child victims of human trafficking. What began as a donor's $50,000 trust experiment has blossomed into a $5 million initiative. “He told me, ‘I don't care if it works. I just want to see you think outside the box,'” Carina shares. It's a stunning example of what's possible when leaders are trusted and supported to innovate.The episode touches on advocacy, trauma-informed storytelling, and building credibility through impact rather than sentiment. Carina makes a compelling case for nonprofit leaders to demand their place at decision-making tables and challenge outdated narratives that nonprofits are less strategic than their corporate counterparts.For nonprofit professionals, this conversation is both a challenge and a blueprint. Carina reminds us that strategy, communication, and vision can carry organizations through uncertainty—not just intact, but stronger. 00:00:00 Welcome 00:01:27 What Shelter Youth and Family Services does 00:02:37 Navigating 24/7 operations and community needs 00:03:50 Impact of state and federal policy on services 00:04:44 Surviving Illinois' budget impasse and COVID 00:06:38 Managing donor fatigue and funding volatility 00:07:53 The importance of donor communication 00:09:43 Leveraging board and stakeholders as advocates 00:11:26 Advocacy and public perception of trafficking 00:12:59 Systems change as financial strategy 00:13:53 Transitioning from events to major gifts 00:17:08 Donor trust leading to bold innovation 00:20:25 Trauma-informed storytelling vs. strategic impact 00:24:10 Educating partners and demanding a seat at the table 00:26:20 Saying no and owning nonprofit leadership Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

What if your volunteer engagement strategy was more than just a nice-to-have? What if it were the heartbeat of your nonprofit's growth, donor development, and impact? That's exactly the message Nicole R. Smith, Executive Director of AL!VE (Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement), and Allie Acridge, Volunteer Engagement Specialist at The Women's Community, bring to this energizing conversation.Nicole, a Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA), kicks things off by explaining the value of professionalizing volunteer engagement: “Managing volunteers, when done well, is like a conductor overseeing an orchestra.” She urges organizations to treat volunteer engagement as a strategic function that touches every part of the organization, not as an afterthought or disposable tag.Allie echoes that sentiment through her work with a domestic violence and sexual assault shelter, where volunteer coordination is both delicate and essential. “You come to a point where you need more—and AL!VE is that ‘more,'” she shares. From managing trauma-informed volunteers to maintaining confidentiality and safety, Allie's day-to-day shows why expertise matters in this field.The conversation spotlights AL!VE's broader mission: to empower, educate, and connect volunteer leaders nationwide. Nicole emphasizes how volunteers can—and often do—become donors, board members, and organizational champions. But that transformation requires intentional communication and inclusion from all levels of the organization. “Volunteers who are treated well will become your biggest advocates. They're better than any marketing campaign you could buy.”The duo also introduces the AL!VE Impact Awards, which recognize outstanding volunteer engagement leaders across the country. Whether you're nominating someone new to the field or a seasoned pro, these awards celebrate those orchestrating impact behind the scenes—and they're open now.For those feeling like a “department of one,” Nicole reminds us: “You are not alone. We are your people.” From monthly workshops to a thriving network of peers, AL!VE offers a powerful support system for those championing volunteerism as a profession, not just a task.Whether you're in leadership or in the trenches, this episode is a rallying call to elevate volunteer management and treat it as the profession it truly is.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Finding great fundraising talent doesn't have to feel like searching for unicorns! On this Fundraisers Friday conversation, Julia Patrick and Tony Beall team up to demystify the talent search and show nonprofits how to recruit smarter, not harder. Whether you're scrambling to fill a vacant role, thinking about future staffing needs, or exploring nontraditional ways to build your dream team, this conversation is packed with smart ideas and refreshing encouragement.Tony kicks things off with a reality check: “There's a lot of talent out there—but how do we find them, and how do we know they're the right fit for our organization?” From there, the episode unpacks practical strategies for evaluating current and future needs, exploring interim and fractional solutions, and rethinking how we define “qualified” candidates.One concept is hiring for ‘high will, low skill'—especially in entry-level and mid-tier fundraising roles. These candidates bring enthusiasm, adaptability, and mission alignment, even if they lack years of sector-specific experience. As Tony explains, it's about looking beyond resumes and finding people who are ready to grow with your organization.The duo also makes a strong case for casting a wider net when posting jobs. Sure, LinkedIn and Indeed are fine—but why not also try your Chamber of Commerce, Urban League, or networking groups? They suggest your next superstar might be a hotel events manager or a corporate sales leader ready for a purposeful pivot into the nonprofit world.They also tackle “the poaching taboo” head-on. Recruiting local fundraisers isn't shameful—it's smart, as long as you're doing it to grow your mission, not to raid someone else's donor portfolio.Finally, they discuss the pros (and myths) around using recruiting agencies. Think they're just for C-suite hiring? Think again. Even small shops can benefit—these pros understand the landscape, fine-tune job descriptions, and save tons of time and stress.These two provide you a toolkit for building a resilient, adaptable, and passionate development team—one smart hire at a time.#TheNonprofitShow #FundraisersFriday #NonprofitHiringFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

If you've ever worked in a nonprofit and found yourself fronting expenses on your personal credit card, you're not alone—and you're definitely not doing it wrong. But there's a better way. Our host sat down with GiveFront.com , to unpack how nonprofits can modernize the way they manage spending, reimbursements, and financial oversight.Founder of GiveFront, Matt Tengtrakool, brings a unique dual lens to the discussion: one from years of hands-on experience running and managing nonprofit finances, and another from building financial technology designed specifically for the sector. His message is clear—nonprofits deserve modern tools to track spending, reduce fraud risk, streamline compliance, and eliminate burdensome reimbursement systems.He explains that many organizations still operate with a single credit card passed around among staff—a system ripe for errors, delays, and a lack of accountability. GiveFront provides an alternative: customizable, trackable virtual cards that make it easy for even volunteers to make approved purchases. “You want to allow people to spend for your organization, but you also want control,” Matt explains. “And having the systems set up from the start is extremely important.”The conversation covers common friction points between program teams and finance departments, shedding light on how better spend management can actually strengthen relationships across departments. Host Julia Patrick and Matt explore the psychological side of transparency, the real costs of missing receipts, and the ripple effects of poor policy enforcement.Matt also shares how sales tax refunds—often ignored due to their complexity—can recapture up to 10% of an organization's spending. With GiveFront's built-in tools, nonprofits in states like North Carolina and Utah can automatically generate sales tax refund documentation without drowning in paperwork.The episode wraps with practical advice: adopt a spend management platform, train your team on internal financial policies, and revisit those policies regularly. Because managing money well isn't just about spreadsheets—it's about trust, clarity, and making sure every dollar does the most good. 00:00:00 Introduction and Matt's background 00:01:27 Why reimbursements are outdated 00:03:15 Volunteer spending made easier 00:05:12 How nonprofits currently use credit cards 00:06:36 Digital wallets and virtual cards 00:07:38 Receipt tracking and compliance challenges 00:10:01 The hidden cost of $10 transactions 00:10:55 Fraud prevention and virtual card use 00:13:17 Bridging the gap between finance and programs 00:17:56 Sales tax refunds and real savings 00:22:00 Policy clarity and spend management best practices  #TheNonprofitShow #SpendManagement #NonprofitFinance Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show