Podcasts about nonprofit management

This episode updates you on how the Big, Bloated Bill in Congress will impact nonprofits and philanthropy. And this week's interview offers a deep dive into how the proposed law would impact nonprofits that hold up America's social safety net.What happens when government cuts to essential services threaten to recreate the horrors of decades past? How do nonprofits navigate serving vulnerable populations while fighting for their very existence? In this powerful episode, Edward Hershey, CEO of Home of Guiding Hands, reveals the critical connection between defending democracy and protecting society's most vulnerable members—people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who depend on services that are now under unprecedented threat.Hershey shares the stark reality of operating a $35 million nonprofit with 1,200 employees while 90% dependent on government funding that's facing massive cuts. From paying payroll on credit cards due to delayed government payments to witnessing a 40% underfunding crisis finally addressed only to be threatened again, his organization's story illuminates how attacking nonprofits, government programs, and philanthropic funding creates a dangerous triple threat to democratic values. The conversation traces a direct line from the horrific institutional conditions exposed by Geraldo Rivera in the 1970s to today's policy decisions that could force a return to those dark days.Through personal accounts of rallying 300 constituents, confronting elected officials, and maintaining hope among staff and clients, Hershey demonstrates that defending democracy isn't abstract—it's about ensuring that government remains "of the people, for the people" by protecting the infrastructure that cares for those who cannot advocate for themselves. His message is clear: we are judged as a society by how we treat our most vulnerable, and preserving that care is preserving democracy itself.You can find all the episodes of this podcast plus our blog, toolkit and other resources at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠fundthepeople.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Resources:Fund the People BlogHome of Guiding HandsGeraldo Rivera's Expose Rate StudyEdward Hershey's Op EdRally footage/media:KPBS Monday 5/26KPBS "San Diego News Now" podcast (2:07 mark) FOX 5 aired footage 5/26 at 1:05 pm and re-aired 5/27 at 6:08 am and 9:08 amKUSI aired footage 5/26 4:07 pm, 6:08 pm, and 5/27 at 5:16 am  10 News mentioned the rally in their morning newscast at 5:42 amBio:Edward Hershey is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Home of Guiding Hands. He assumed his role with HGH on September 1, 2021. Edward began his career at HGH in 2015 as the Vice President of Operations and was then  promoted to Chief Operating Officer. Edward has 27- years of management experience in directing all facets of business operations, with expertise in operations and project management. Prior to joining Home of Guiding Hands, Edward worked for Father Joe's Villages as their Vice President of Operations for 12 years, and for the Employment Development Department where he specialized in Veteran's needs. Edward served in the US Navy during the Gulf War and was honorably discharged in 1993. He serves on the Board for the California Disability Services Institute, and the California Disability Services Association. He volunteers his time for Boy Scouts of America and the VFW. Edward holds a Master's Degree in Human Resource Management with a Specialization in Strategic Innovation and Change Management from Colorado State University and a Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Leadership with a Specialization in Public and Non-Profit Management. Edward is a graduate of the National Leadership Consortium on Developmental Disabilities, a licensed California Contractor, and is a member of the John Maxwell team certified as a leadership coach, speaker, and trainer. He lives in El Cajon with his wife of 16 years Jessica and their three children, Julia, Niko, and Ethan.

In this episode of the Touring the Holy Land Series, Jen has a conversation with Rev. Dr. Mae Elise Cannon, the executive director of Churches for Middle East Peace. Mae shares some of her transformative experiences traveling and leading trips in Palestine-Israel. She unpacks the role that privilege plays when foreigners travel to the region, emphasizing the cognitive dissonance  that travelers often face when encountering conflicting narratives and the systemic injustices that Palestinians endure. Mae shares about how Churches for Middle East Peace facilitates Christian Holy Land pilgrimages, fostering transformative possibilities for Christian peacebuilding through multi-narrative trips that uplift diverse perspectives from Palestinians and Israelis.In their extended conversation for our Patreon supporters, Jennifer and Mae discuss the impact of Christian pilgrimage on Palestinian communities, highlighting both the economic and emotional significance of solidarity. To access this extended conversation and others, consider ⁠supporting us on Patreon⁠. Rev. Dr. Mae Elise Cannon is the executive director of Churches for Middle East Peace. Cannon formerly served as the senior director of Advocacy and Outreach for World Vision U.S. on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC; as a consultant to the Middle East for child advocacy issues for Compassion International in Jerusalem; as the executive pastor of Hillside Covenant Church located in Walnut Creek, California; and as director of development and transformation for extension ministries at Willow Creek Community Church in Barrington, Illinois. Cannon holds an MDiv from North Park Theological Seminary, an MBA from North Park University's School of Business and Nonprofit Management, and an MA in bioethics from Trinity International University. She received her first doctorate in American History with a minor in Middle Eastern studies at the University of California (Davis) focusing on the history of the American Protestant church in Israel and Palestine and her second doctorate in Ministry in Spiritual Formation from Northern Theological Seminary. She is the author of several books including the award-winning Social Justice Handbook: Small Steps for a Better World and editor of A Land Full of God: Christian Perspectives on the Holy Land. Her work has been highlighted in The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, Chicago Tribune, Christianity Today, Leadership Magazine, The Christian Post, Jerusalem Post, EU Parliament Magazine, Huffington Post, and other international media outlets.If you enjoy our content, please consider supporting our work on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/AcrosstheDivide Follow Across the Divide on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠⁠⁠‪@AcrosstheDividePodcast‬⁠⁠⁠Across the Divide partners with Peace Catalyst International to amplify the pursuit of peace and explore the vital intersection of Christian faith and social justice in Palestine-Israel.Show Notes:Vox article on the influence of the book Exodus by Leon UrisCMEP TripsCMEP Action alert

Recent political developments in the U.S.—from executive orders to proposed agency closures and evolving federal funding guidelines—have placed cultural organizations at the center of a national conversation about how institutions uphold their values and navigate their role in a rapidly changing America.  In this episode, Brett Egan of the DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management breaks down what's happening now, what's at stake, and where cultural organizations might find unexpected opportunity in the turbulence.  CI to Eye with Brett Egan (1:30) -- CI's President (Interim) Christopher Williams sits down with Brett Egan, President of the DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management. They discuss how to prepare for threats to the arts and cultural industry, and rethink what resilience means moving forward. CI-lebrity Sightings (31:55) -- Dan Titmuss shares his favorite stories about CI clients in the news. This month's episode spotlights The Juilliard School, Louisville Orchestra, and San Diego Theatres.  LINKS: DeVos Institute of Arts and Nonprofit Management Capacity Interactive | The Arts and Culture Sector is Facing a Funding Squeeze in 2025 New York Times | Juilliard Plans $550 Million Drive to Go Tuition Free Sentinel News | Louisville Orchestra bring classical music to all corners of Kentucky Broadway World | San Diego Civic Theatre Will Get $7.5 Million Renovation  

The Reverend Kevin Jagoe, minister to BuxMont Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, shares his journey from small-town Minnesota to Unitarian Universalist ministry, weaving together life as a gay man, humanism, and a call to serve. He reflects on religion, purpose, and - in a changing spiritual landscape - what it means to lead with love.The Reverend Kevin W. Jagoe was born and raised in small-town Minnesota. He lived in Brooklyn, NY before being called as minister by BuxMont Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in 2018 and now lives outside of Philadelphia. He completed his Master of Divinity at Meadville Lombard Theological School in Chicago and is currently working on his Doctorate of Divinity at United Lutheran Seminary. Prior to seminary, he completed a BA in anthropology, criminal justice, and forensic sciences with minors in psychology and biology as well as a Master of Arts in Nonprofit Management. Beyond congregational life, Jagoe is Adjunct Faculty with the Humanist Studies Program of the American Humanist Association and has worked professionally within the Humanist movement since 2013.

With over 35 years of private practice and extensive experience consulting in various sectors, our guest expert Faust Ruggiero shares practical strategies for nonprofit leaders to improve their operations, strengthen staff development, and enhance fundraising efforts. Tune in for actionable tips and learn how to work smarter, not harder, to make a bigger impact without burning out. Episode Highlights 03:53 Challenges in Nonprofit Management 05:26 Building a Strong Nonprofit Team 06:48 Importance of Networking and Fundraising 08:14 Investing in Staff Development 18:35 Overcoming Internal Resistance 21:18 The Role of a Volunteer Coordinator 24:10 Assessing and Building Your Team Meet the Guest Faust Ruggiero is a psychologist who has been in private practice for over thirty-five years. Before entering private practice, he worked in clinics for deaf children, prisons, nursing homes, substance abuse centers, inpatient facilities, and is a consultant for major national and international corporations. He is a published research author and a professional clinical trainer. In the summer of 2016, he began to develop The Fix Yourself Empowerment Series based on the Process Life Program to help readers address difficult situations in their lives. The series currently includes The Fix Yourself Handbook, The Fix Your Anxiety Handbook, The Fix Your Depression Handbook, The Fix Your Anger Handbook and the new The Fix Your Addiction Handbook that was just released! Connect with Faust: Website: www.FaustRuggiero.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaustInspire/ Twitter: https://x.com/faustinspire IG: https://www.instagram.com/faustinspire/ Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

This episode will feature Dr. Debora Altus discussing the study of aging (gerontology) and the non-profit management certificate, explaining how these specializations can enhance a Family and Human Services degree.

Send us a textRev. Dr. Raigan Miskelly, senior pastor at Galloway UMC in Jackson, MS, joins Alex and Susan to answer the questions, "How did God never have a beginning? Was God made?"ABOUT RAIGAN:  Rev. Dr. Raigan Miskelly is an Ordained United Methodist Elder in the Mississippi Conference. Dr. Miskelly holds a Master of Divinity degree from Pacific School of Religion and a Doctor of Ministry from Duke Divinity School. She is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis on Nonprofit Management. She is a certified coach, teacher, and speaker with the John Maxwell Leadership Team. She's also a certified spin instructor. Raigan is married to Rocky and is the mother of two college-age children. She is also the stepmother of two adult sons. Thanks for listening to the Embodied Holiness Podcast. We invite you to join the community on Facebook and Instagram @embodiedholiness. You can find all our episodes and more at www.embodiedholiness.com. Embodied Holiness is a ministry of Parkway Heights United Methodist Church in Hattiesburg, MS. If you're in the Hattiesburg area and are looking for a church home, we'd love to meet you and welcome you to the family. You can find out more about Parkway Heights at our website.

In Episode 181, Nick Constantino and Trip Jobe are live from the Battery to explore the nonprofit world and the challenges it faces. Joined by Nehemiah Lamb, founder of Unique Individual Ranch, they discuss the importance of fundamental marketing and client communication skills for successful nonprofit management. Nehemiah shares his journey from working at the YMCA to starting his own organization, creating a supportive environment for neurodiverse children. The episode delves into the complexities of starting and managing a nonprofit, fundraising, sponsorship, and building a brand. Nehemiah emphasizes the need for specialized training and programs for neurodiverse populations, advocating for early intervention, collaboration, and public education to promote inclusion. Key Takeaways: Growing need for neurodiverse services. Challenges in awareness, funding, and bureaucracy. Importance of early intervention and collaboration. Effective sponsorship acquisition and community partnerships. Future plans for program expansion. Ways to support: spreading the word, donating, volunteering, and advocacy. #MarketingMadmen #Neurodiversity #EarlyIntervention #Collaboration #ProgramExpansion #CommunitySupport Meta Description: Join Nick Constantino, Trip Jobe, and Nehemiah Lamb as they discuss the growing need for neurodiverse services, the vision for creating a comprehensive support system, and ways to support these initiatives. #MarketingMadmen Focus Keyword: Neurodiversitypatreon.com/TheMarketingMadMen: https://www.nick-constantino.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine transforming your business operations with seamless automation.Welcome to The Power Lounge, where Amy Vaughan of Together Digital hosts conversations with empowered individuals. In this episode, Amy sits down with Christi Stafford, CEO and founder of Automation on a Mission, who brings over twenty-five years of experience in revolutionizing small businesses through intelligent automated systems.Christi shares her "Attract, Sell, and Wow" framework, a strategy that streamlines customer journeys, boosts revenue, and builds lasting client relationships. Together, they explore the evolution of Christi's business model, the crucial role of automation in sustainable entrepreneurship, and the balance between technology and personal interaction.Discover practical strategies to automate and scale your business, reclaim valuable time, and thrive. Whether you're an entrepreneur or interested in automation, this episode offers valuable insights to support your business journey.Christi Stafford leads Automation on a Mission, empowering small businesses with streamlined sales and marketing automation since 2014. With over 25 years of experience, she has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs generate millions in revenue while reclaiming time through efficient, scalable systems. Her leadership includes launching impactful programs and a thriving social enterprise, making entrepreneurship more accessible and sustainable.Join us as we explore the optimal customer journey through automation with Christi Stafford on The Power Lounge.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction01:52 - Nonprofit Management and Social Enterprise03:29 - Unplanned Career Paths08:41 - Efficient Meetings with Calendar Automation10:42 - Unlocking Business Opportunities with Automation13:46 - Automation's Human Connection & Magic19:06 - Enhancing Client Renewal Rates22:43 - Optimizing Business Automation Strategy26:21 - Streamline Buying with Automation28:07 - Inclusive Membership for Retired Members32:04 - Automated Subscription Success35:54 - Streamlining Guest Preparation Process37:17 - Automated Affiliate Integration42:14 - DocuSign Integration Limitations45:40 - Mindful Use of Chatbots46:53 - Chatbot Mastery with Lauren50:14 - Custom Automation for Unique Businesses53:35 - Design Career: Learning Through Experience56:14 - OutroQuotes:"In digital chaos, automation is your secret weapon to reclaim time and energy."- Amy Vaughan"Automation unlocks unique solutions and hidden opportunities for your business."- Christi StaffordKey Takeaways:Unlocking Automation Potential in Small BusinessesCreating Seamless Customer JourneysBalancing Technology and AuthenticityOptimizing for Continued SuccessHarnessing AI for the FutureChoosing the Right Automation ToolsEmbracing Feedback as an OpportunityConnect with Christi Stafford:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinorfleetstafford/Website:https://automationonamission.com/Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/amypvaughanPodcast:https://www.togetherindigital.com/podcast/Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visitinghttps://togetherindigital.comSupport the show

Passion draws people to nonprofit work, but strategy keeps them going. The best leaders combine heart with smart decision-making, ensuring their organizations not only survive but thrive. So, if you're leading a nonprofit (or thinking about starting one), remember that your passion is a powerful tool but only when paired with the right skills and mindset. With the right balance, you can turn good intentions into real, lasting change. In today's podcast, David Rhode from Dot Dot Org and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss why passion isn't enough in nonprofit leadership.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William dives deep into the art of building, running, and keeping a great team by tackling one of today's most pressing challenges—turnover. He shares candid insights and real-world anecdotes on why people join a cause and why they leave, emphasizing that it's rarely the company or mission at fault—it's often the leadership. Key discussion points include: Vision vs. Management: How a compelling vision can attract talent, but a poor management approach drives them away. Realistic Expectations: The importance of setting clear, honest expectations during hiring to prevent disillusionment and turnover. Understanding Your Team: Strategies for learning how each team member is “wired,” and adapting your communication and leadership style accordingly. The Human Element: How genuinely connecting with employees—making them feel seen, known, and valued—can significantly boost retention. Practical Retention Tactics: From setting short-term goals to effective delegation, discover actionable tips for creating an environment where great teams flourish. Whether you're leading a church, a nonprofit, or a corporate organization, this episode provides actionable strategies to ensure your team not only stays but thrives under your leadership.

As this is being written the firestorm in California is continuing. It is not only government that responds to disasters and the needs of disaster survivors and victims. The Disaster Accountability Project was created to help coordinate nongovernmental organizational efforts. To date, the site has more than 900 organizations registered worldwide. Following a stringent review process, organizations are presented with information that displays proximity to a specific crisis, and the range of services provided to survivors, and a detailed but easy-to-digest overview of the organization's financial health – which gives an indication of the percentage of aid that will be directly passed on to survivors. You can find all the details at www.smartresponse.org  The podcast guest is Ben Smilowitz, ben@disasteraccountabilityproject.org  He witnessed the bungled Hurricane Katrina response while managing a high-volume Red Cross Client Service Center in Gulfport, MS. Soon after, Ben launched Disaster Accountability Project, an independent watchdog, to confront the root causes of the failed Katrina response and maximize the impact of billions of dollars of disaster relief and humanitarian aid.   Disaster Accountability Project has successfully advocated for the release of millions of dollars of disaster relief and recovery funds after Superstorm Sandy, investigated deficiencies in emergency planning surrounding 19 commercial U.S. nuclear power plants, and improved the transparency of nearly 2 billion dollars of disaster relief donations after disasters in the U.S., Haiti and Nepal.  Under Ben's leadership, DAP's reports, advocacy, and op-eds have been covered by global news media including The Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, and CNN. Many of DAP's successes over its thirteen years are attributable to the hundreds of volunteers from around the world that Ben has recruited and managed.  Prior to starting DAP, Ben had a background in youth civic engagement and issue advocacy. He wrote successful legislation in Connecticut and created a Youth Cabinet in Missouri. Ben studied Political Science and Nonprofit Management and holds a law degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law.Please visit our sponsors!L3Harris Technologies' BeOn PPT App. Learn more about this amazing product here: www.l3harris.com Impulse: Bleeding Control Kits by professionals for professionals: www.dobermanemg.com/impulseDoberman Emergency Management Group provides subject matter experts in planning and training: www.dobermanemg.com

If you're searching for practical steps on how to grow a small nonprofit, start with mission clarity, strategic planning, understanding your donor profile, and financial sustainability. By refining your approach, strengthening partnerships, and leveraging digital tools, your organization can expand its reach and make a greater impact. With persistence and the right strategies, even the smallest nonprofit can achieve big results. In today's podcast, Ang Adamiak from Arts & Scraps and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss the keys to growing a small nonprofit.

Join Sarah Olivieri in another insightful episode of Inspired Nonprofit Leadership where she speaks with Holly Rustick, a world-renowned grant writing and business coach. They dive into the challenges and opportunities faced by nonprofit leaders, including the importance of mindset, the complexities of grant writing, and the necessity of preparation and self-care. Holly shares her expertise on how nonprofits can pivot in response to changes in the funding landscape and offers practical tips for executive directors and board members. If you're involved in nonprofit leadership or considering a transition to consulting, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you unleash your full potential.   Episode Highlights 01:05 Meet Holly Rustick: Grant Writing Expert 03:48 Navigating Change and Pivoting in Nonprofits 11:33 Addressing Toxicity in Nonprofit Culture 19:13 Creating a Better Work Environment in Nonprofits 19:37 Steps to Transition Out of Your Nonprofit Job 19:55 Maximizing Efficiency with Task Management 20:11 The Importance of Data in Nonprofit Management 21:59 Exploring Nonprofit to Consultant Transitions 27:07 Pricing Strategies for Hiring Grant Writers 34:43 Final Advice and Resources for Nonprofit Leaders Meet the Guest World-renowned grant writing and business coach Holly Rustick coaches new and seasoned grant writers to quit their toxic nonprofit jobs and replace their full-time income writing grants part-time from home through her signature programs: the Freelance Grant Writer Academy and the Grant Professional Mentorship. In 18 months alone, Holly's program students in her two programs have collectively secured $137+ million in grant funding, and $2.7 million+ in their businesses. Being a grant writer and trainer for 20 years, Holly has a mission to coach grant writers to help causes they care about while making an equitable income on flexible hours. Holly is the podcast host of the top grant writing podcast in the world, “Grant Writing & Funding” and author of the Bestselling book, “The Beginner's Guide to Grant Writing.” Holly has an MA in International Political Economy, is past-president of the Guam Women's Chamber of Commerce, serves on numerous boards of directors, and is an unapologetic feminist. She lives on the island of Guam with her beautiful daughter, Isabella. Find out more at www.grantwritingandfunding.com Connect with Holly: Website: Grant Writing & Funding LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-rustick-0765b817/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/hollyrustick/ Podcast: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-writing-podcast/ Book: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/book YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GrantWritingandFunding Freelance Grant Writer Academy:https://grantwritingandfunding.com/freelance-grant-writer-academy Grant Professional Mentorship: https://grantwritingandfunding.com/grant-professional-mentorship Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

In October 2024, Dan and Lex participated in Elevate -- a summit for podcasters hosting shows in the realm of faith and spirituality -- to connect and collaborate with one another. The gathering took place at BYU – Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah – and was hosted by In Good Faith, a podcast produced by BYUradio. After an amazing few days at the summit, In Good Faith invited Dan and I to be guests on their podcast – to speak a bit about Judaism Unbound, but also for the two of us to reflect on our own relationships to religion and spirituality. The episode was recently released on their feed, and we're excited to release it on ours as well, as a bonus episode. You can subscribe to In Good Faith on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere else that podcasts are found. Episode Description, from In Good Faith:Lex Rofeberg and Dan Libenson talk to Steve Kapp Perry about their organization Judaism Unbound. Lex Rofeberg is Senior Jewish educator for Judaism Unbound -- a digital, Jewish non-profit organization -- and oversees Judaism Unbound's UnYeshiva (a digital center for Jewish learning and unlearning). He produces and co-hosts Judaism Unbound's weekly podcast, and facilitates regular forms of communal gathering, via Zoom, for Jews and Jewish-adjacent non-Jews. Dan Libenson is President of Lippman Kanfer Foundation for Living Torah, which is dedicated to helping Jews and fellow travelers apply Jewish wisdom to thrive and shape a better world. He is also the co-host of the Judaism Unbound podcast, as well as The Oral Talmud, a streaming video show soon to be released in podcast form. Dan teaches classes on Judaism and Jewish wisdom at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion's Zelikow School of Nonprofit Management. Dan is the translator of The Orchard, a novel about the early days of Rabbinic Judaism, by renowned Israeli novelist Yochi Brandes.

302: Nonprofit Success Through Donor Relationships (Melissa Le Roy)SUMMARYThis episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader. Are you ready to take your nonprofit's fundraising to the next level? This episode dives deep into the art of relationship-driven fundraising and the strategies that sustain long-term nonprofit success. In episode #302 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Melissa Le Roy shares actionable advice for building meaningful donor connections. Learn her "five steps to building a fire" for sustainable fundraising strategies, discover how gratitude and consistent communication can transform donor retention, and explore how AI can streamline segmentation and personalized outreach. Melissa also highlights leadership lessons, emphasizing transparency, integrity, and prioritizing relationship-building to inspire greater engagement. ABOUT MELISSAMelissa Metcalf Le Roy, a graduate in Entrepreneurship, with a minor in business law of Western Carolina University and a graduate in Nonprofit Management of Duke University teaches non-profit management classes throughout North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia for Duke University and Western Carolina University. She is a past board member of the North Carolina Center for Non-Profits. For four years she contributed a regular “Non-Profit Leadership” column for the Tryon Daily Bulletin and currently offers her services as a consultant through her own firm, OnFire Nonprofit Consulting. You can also view her TEDx talk “A Love Affair, the Art of Not Asking” on Nonprofit Fundraising.EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCESReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuireDonor Centered Fundraising by Penelope BurkeHave you gotten Patton's book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon't miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership

Welcome to Confessions of an Implementer, a podcast by Talent Harbor. We share unique stories of implementers and the companies they've transformed to give you a rare glimpse into the system's successes and challenges. I'm your host, Ryan Hogan. Let's dive in! In this episode, I sit down with Rob Drynan, a Certified Implementer, to explore the power of core values in hiring, the role of board governance, and strategies for organizational growth. Rob shares his journey leading nonprofits and implementing the EOS framework to drive success. From overcoming founder-led challenges to fostering mission-driven cultures, this insightful conversation offers practical advice for leaders aiming to elevate their organizations to the next level.

Nonprofits worked hard last year and gained valuable insights along the way. In today's episode, we share the top lessons learned by 10 fundraising professionals, and ways to apply them to make an even greater impact in 2025. Listen for tips on donor engagement, the importance of managing your data, leveraging your annual fund for major gifts, the value of unrestricted funds for capacity building, and more — plus a message of inspiration that every nonprofit should hear. Free 30-minute fundraising consultation for NPFX listeners: http://www.ipmadvancement.com/free Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com. Additional Resources IPM's free Nonprofit Resource Library: https://www.ipmadvancement.com/resources Why Donor Retention Should Be Your Top Fundraising Priority https://www.ipmadvancement.com/blog/why-donor-retention-should-be-your-top-fundraising-priority Writing a Great Thank You Letter: The First Step in Successful Donor Stewardship https://www.ipmadvancement.com/blog/writing-a-great-thank-you-letter-the-first-step-in-successful-donor-stewardship [NPFX] Measuring More than Money: Why Donor Relationships Matter https://www.ipmadvancement.com/blog/measuring-more-than-money-why-donor-relationships-matter [NPFX] Meaningful Donor Relationships: The Key to Financial Stability https://www.ipmadvancement.com/blog/meaningful-donor-relationships-the-key-to-financial-stability The Secret to Keeping Your Donors Giving: Make Them Feel Special https://www.ipmadvancement.com/blog/the-secret-to-keeping-your-donors-giving-make-them-feel-special Shereese Floyd is CEO of Witness My Life and founder of AI Consultants for Nonprofits. With more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit marketing, Shereese has helped organizations increase their influence and revenue, generating over $2 million in direct campaigns. She is dedicated to social change, with a focus on development, branding, women's leadership, and artificial intelligence. Through AI Consultants for Nonprofits, Shereese offers AI literacy and training programs tailored to nonprofits, schools, and government entities. Her approach empowers organizations to certify internal team members as AI experts, fostering a culture where technology handles routine tasks, allowing people to focus on meaningful work. Shereese's mission is to make AI accessible and beneficial for organizations focused on social good. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shereesefloyd/ https://aiconsultantsfornonprofits.com/ Sami Zoss, is the founder of Zoss Collaborations, a business solutions consulting firm specializing in nonprofit growth and operational efficiency. With an MBA in Finance and Marketing, Sami brings a wealth of expertise in donor engagement, technology integration, and strategic planning to her clients. Before founding Zoss Collaborations, Sami served as the COO and later as Acting CEO of the Dakota State University Foundation, where she led record-breaking fundraising campaigns and implemented innovative donor engagement strategies that significantly expanded DSU's donor base. In addition to her work with educational institutions, she has been a dedicated volunteer with organizations like Camp Gilbert Inc., supporting children with Type 1 diabetes. https://www.linkedin.com/in/samizoss/ https://samizoss.com/ Samantha Timlick, partner & CEO of IPM Advancement, has been with IPM since launch. She's worked with nonprofit clients on donor renewal, appeal, stewardship, and acquisition programs encompassing more than 250 million total recipients across all fundraising channels — including highly segmented direct mail microtargeting, personalized inbound and outbound telemarketing, and integrated e-campaigns. https://www.linkedin.com/in/stimlick/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Emily Berry leads the Annual Giving effort at Miami University, generating more than $6 million each year. With more than two decades of fundraising and advancement experience, Emily brings a wealth of experience and knowledge as a session presenter. She has previously served on the District V conference committee, and her team has been recognized with CASE Circle of Excellence Awards for their annual day of giving, #MoveInMiami. https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-berry-3b23867/ https://moveinmiami.org/ Nicolette Dumais is the Constituent Communications Manager at USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum. She excels at crafting and executing strategic fundraising plans, building lasting stakeholder relationships, and identifying funding opportunities to drive organizational growth. Nicolette has successfully led development teams, fostering collaboration and professional growth. Holding a Bachelor's in Communications and a Master's in Nonprofit Management, she combines deep expertise with a passion for making an impact, helping organizations achieve sustainable success. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolette-dumais/ https://uss-hornet.org/ Josh Gryniewicz, founder of Odd Duck, a storytelling for social change consultancy, has spent his career in nonprofit. He served as the communication director for Cure Violence, an internationally renowned violence prevention program featured in the award-winning film The Interrupters. Josh helmed the rebrand of Integrate Health, a global health initiative in West Africa, helping increase their budget by nearly $1 million. Most recently, Josh led communication efforts for Data Across Sectors for Health (DASH), a program focused on national multi-sector data sharing to address social determinants of health. He is the co-author of the national bestseller, Interrupting Violence, a moving story of redemption and social change. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ Ally Barron is Chief Development & Communications Officer at the Hope and Heal Fund. With over 15 years of experience, her expertise spans corporate social responsibility, fundraising strategy, donor relations, event management, and strategic communications. In her current role, Ally has transformed fundraising strategies, securing over $2.5 million annually and cultivating a $5 million grant from Governor Gavin Newsom's Office of Emergency Services. Her leadership extends to managing a statewide public awareness campaign focused on mental health, violence prevention, and equity. Ally holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Arizona State University. https://www.linkedin.com/in/allybarron8/ https://hopeandhealfund.org/ Elizabeth Silverstein has served the not-for-profit sector for more than 40 years, specializing in transformational giving, vision casting, inspiring boards, and building passionate, effective teams. Beth has been instrumental in cultivating major gifts for capital campaigns in healthcare, two presidential libraries, higher education, K-12 independent schools, and social service organizations. https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-reynolds-silverstein-b211b7a/ Russ Phaneuf, co-founder, managing partner & chief strategist for IPM Advancement, has spent more than 25 years in nonprofit fundraising, with key roles in higher education development. Russ has been a finalist for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) “Rising Star” award, and he has earned an AMA Spectrum Award recognizing outstanding collateral. He has also presented on strategic communications and constituent engagement for CASE, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the National League of Cities. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 30 years. In his role as senior consultant with IPM Advancement, Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in major gifts program management, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/

Kids GARDENING: Helping Young Minds Grow Guest Em Shipman, Executive Director, kids GARDENING (www.kidsgardening.org ) Gardening is a highly engaging learning activity that can be incorporated into a school curriculum to offer real world applications of math, language, science and social studies, while also helping students enhance their physical, social, emotional and mental development. KidsGardening is a well-established non-profit that guides educators and caregivers in bringing the life-changing benefits of gardening to kids. The organization supports the garden development process by providing grant funding, education resources, creative inspiration and community building. Em Shipman, Executive Director of Kids Gardening, is a nonprofit executive with nearly 20 years of experience leading transformative programs in food systems, agriculture, and education. She holds a B.A. in Public Policy and Anthropology from Hobart and William Smith College and an M.S. in Nonprofit Management from Marlboro College Graduate School. She has worked as a professional gardener and garden designer, and she is a mom of two young boys. In this episode, Shipman shows how our children can realize their full potential in a garden space where they have access to healthy food, hands-on outdoor play and endless learning opportunities. She wants to ensure that the next generations of young people become the tidal wave of social and environmental change leadership needed to alter our trajectory and heal our planet and people.   SAMPLE LESSON PLANS Observe Evergreens - https://kidsgardening.org/resources/lesson-plans-green-forever/ Grow Your Own Herbal Tea - https://kidsgardening.org/resources/gardening-basics-six-easy-to-grow-herbs/ Growing a Knowing Nose - https://kidsgardening.org/resources/lesson-plan-growing-a-knowing-nose-scent-lesson/ Growing Garden Companions - https://kidsgardening.org/resources/lesson-plans-growing-garden-companions/   WEBINARS FOR GARDEN EDUCATORS Peruse the webinar archives - https://kidsgardening.org/webinar-archives/ Register for the Landscape Design for Youth Garden E-Course - https://kidsgardening.org/the-latest-landscape-design-course/   SAMPLE GARDENING ACTIVITES Try exploring herbs - https://kidsgardening.org/resources/garden-activities-exploring-herbs/ Create an herb spiral garden - https://kidsgardening.org/resources/garden-activities-herb-spiral-garden/   SUPPORT THE GROWTH Donate to Kids Gardening - https://kidsgardening.org/donate-kg/   RELATED PODCASTS Food Forest Gardening - https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-f56t7-1296ecc Symbiotic Schoolyard - https://dreamvisions7radio.com/learning-ecosystem-restoration/ Thrive Outside - https://dreamvisions7radio.com/thrive-outside/ Join the Story Walking Radio Hour group on facebook - Log in or sign up to view Read about DIPG: Eternal Hope Versus Terminal Corruption by Dean Fachon begin to uncover the truth about cancer - https://dipgbook.com/ Learn more at https://netwalkri.com email storywalkerwendy@gmail.com or call 401 529-6830. Connect with Wendy to order copies of Fiddlesticks, The Angel Heart or Storywalker Wild Plant Magic Cards. Subscribe to Wendy's blog Writing with Wendy at www.wendyfachon.blog. Join Wendy on facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/StoryWalkingRadio

Bryan Daniels, the President and CEO of the Blount Partnership – Incoming IEDC Board chair, joins Dennis, and they discuss what is ahead for the economic development profession and IEDC in 2025. Bryan Daniels was born and raised in Greeneville, Tennessee, which is adjacent to Cherokee National Forest. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications & Computer Science and a Master of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology from East Tennessee State University. Bryan began his career with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development based in Nashville, Tennessee. Mr. Daniels left the State of Tennessee in 1997 and begun work as an Economic Development Planner for the firm of Barge Waggoner, Sumner and Cannon based in Nashville, Tennessee. During this time Bryan worked with several communities within East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. His clients were municipalities trying to develop their local economies and seeking state and federal support for their goals. From 2001 thru 2010, Bryan accepted the role of Executive Vice President under the Blount Partnership. He was directly responsible for the Economic Development offices and staff located in Maryville, Tennessee; Munich, Germany; and Yokohama, Japan. Bryan managed the operations of the community's four industrial parks, two science/technology parks, and the Economic Development Programs for Blount County, City of Maryville, and City of Alcoa, Tennessee. The Economic Development Board is one of the four partner agencies of the Blount Partnership. In 2010, Bryan was named President and CEO of the Blount Partnership. The Partnership is comprised of The Blount County Chamber of Commerce, Blount County Economic Development Board, the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority, and the Blount Chamber Foundation. The 24-person staff is responsible for all economic development activities within the jurisdictional boarders of Blount County and the cities of Alcoa, Maryville, Townsend, Rockford, Friendsville, and Louisville. During Bryan's tenure, Blount County has recruited over 75 new and expanding companies in the areas of research & development, corporate headquarters, manufacturing, and back-office support centers. The total capital investment of these companies has exceeded $4 billion dollars and created more than 12,000 direct new jobs with average wages above Tennessee's average. The Blount County local governments adopted the new tourism authority structure which was written by Bryan and former Senator Doug Overbey. The authority was unanimously adopted by the 107th Tennessee general assembly. Bryan has continued his professional education by graduating from the Economic Development Institute located at the University of Oklahoma and is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council. Bryan is also a graduate from the US Chamber's Institute of Non-Profit Management and attained the designation of IOM. He has also attained the status of Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. The Blount Partnership is a five-star accredited Chamber of Commerce by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is the only Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) by the International Economic Development Council in the state of Tennessee. Bryan is very active in the community and has held the following leadership roles:  

Whenever you hire someone, you're hiring a stranger. Usually, the odds of getting that right are small, but are there ways to raise them? My guest today is a recruiter who helps small businesses hire better and she has ideas for us.As the business owner of BizMatch llc, Lindsay DeLee-Arel leverages her expertise in event planning and customer relationship management (CRM) to create and facilitate successful matches between businesses and people. Lindsay has over 10 years of experience in social media, community outreach, and client relations in various industries throughout healthcare and nonprofit organizations. Her mission is to provide customized and personalized solutions that meet the needs and expectations of clients, whether they are looking for new opportunities, partnerships, or talent. Lindsay has a Master's in Non Profit Management from Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies.In this episode Carl White and Lindsay DeLee-Arel discuss:Why the stats in successful hiring are so badWhat tools are out there for individuals doing the hiringWhen it makes sense to hire a recruiter vs. DIYWant to be a guest on PracticeCare®?Have an experience with a business issue you think others will benefit from? Come on PracticeCare® and tell the world! Here's the link where you can get the process started.Connect with Lindsay DeLee-Arellinkedin.com/in/lindsay-d-267b8b7Connect with Carl WhiteWebsite: http://www.marketvisorygroup.comEmail:  whitec@marketvisorygroup.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/marketvisorygroupYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD9BLCu_i2ezBj1ktUHVmigLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/healthcaremktg

In a recent episode of A Modern Nonprofit Podcast, host Tosha Anderson sat down with Greg Miller, President and CEO of Penn-Mar Human Services, to discuss the critical issues of recruitment, retention, and strategic partnerships in the nonprofit sector. With over three decades of experience in human services and nonprofit management, Miller shared valuable insights on how organizations can attract and retain top talent while fostering meaningful partnerships. Mission-Driven Recruitment Miller emphasized the significance of hiring for mission rather than just function. He stressed that potential employees and volunteers should have a clear understanding of how their work contributes to the organization's overall mission. This approach not only attracts individuals who are passionate about the cause but also helps in retaining them for the long term. At Penn-Mar, the focus is on helping recruits understand how they fit into the organization's mission of supporting people with disabilities. This clarity of purpose has been instrumental in attracting high-caliber talent and reducing turnover rates. About Greg Miller To learn more about Penn-Mar Human Services and Greg Miller's work, visit https://www.penn-mar.org/. You can find him on LinkedIn here:   / gregory-miller-12154031   Gregory T. Miller is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Penn-Mar Human Services and also serves as the CEO of the Penn-Mar Foundation. As the organizational leader since 2012, he has direct responsibility for the programmatic, financial, and strategic operations of Penn-Mar, including Board development. Since joining the organization in 1988, he has served in various leadership roles, most recently as President and Chief Operating Officer. Greg holds a bachelor's degree from Shippensburg University and a master's degree from McDaniel College. He earned a Certificate for Performance Measurement for Management of NPOs from Harvard University Kennedy School of Government and a Certificate for Strategic Perspectives in Non-Profit Management from Harvard Business School. On three separate occasions, Greg has addressed the International Conference in Sao Paulo, Brazil on leadership development and employment and service models for people with disabilities. What to watch next… Here is Alex Johnston talking about strategic relationships with high net worth individuals:    • Episode 99: Unlocking the Potential o...   Nonprofit Priorities and Time Management with Alisa Johnson:    • Episode 79: Nonprofit priorities and ...   What's new on our website? The Ultimate Guide to KPIs in Your Nonprofit: https://thecharitycfo.com/kpis-you-sh... Follow Us Online Stay connected and get more exclusive content on: Website: www.thecharitycfo.com Instagram: @thecharitycfo Facebook:   / thecharitycfo   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-... TikTok: @thecharitycfo Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6hofQXP... Apple Music: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Get Involved Subscribe for more videos: Don't forget to hit the bell icon so you never miss a video! Explore A Modern Nonprofit Podcast:    • A Modern Nonprofit   About The Charity CFO We are an accounting partner that truly understands nonprofits. We know the missions that drive you, the obstacles that challenge you, and the dedication your job demands. We “get” nonprofits, because nonprofits are all that we do. If you need help with your accounting and bookkeeping, let's talk. Book a FREE consultation here.

In this episode of Money Tales, our guest is Ashli Sims. Ashli is a reporter turned nonprofit fundraiser, who takes us into the complex world of asking for support. Ashli's current journey began with a Kickstarter campaign to fund a storytelling project in Tanzania, where the ask was clear and the purpose was powerful. But when her career evolved into professional fundraising, the stakes got higher, and so did the challenges. Ashli shares how she learned to focus on impact rather than the dollars, reframing what it means to ask for help in a way that connects people to purpose. Ashli Sims is a storyteller who breaks down barriers and opens doors so Black entrepreneurs can build wealth for themselves, their families, and future generations. She has twenty years of experience, working as a news reporter, an advocate for vulnerable children, a fundraiser and a nonprofit leader. She's a graduate of Northwestern University and has a certificate in Nonprofit Management from the Oklahoma Center of Nonprofits. Ashli has raised more than $16 Million for four different organizations. She joined the Build in Tulsa team in April of 2021, charged with helping raise money for the effort, before she was promoted to lead the initiative in February of 2022. Since Build in Tulsa launched operations two and a half years ago, the network has grown to include 400 entrepreneurs, facilitating more than 10,000 hours of training and coaching and investing $10.5 Million with underrepresented founders. Ashli is an Aspen Institute 2023 Health Communities Fellow and serves on the board of 36 Degrees North in Tulsa and a community pantry and soup kitchen, Iron Gate. She's been featured in Forbes, Essence, and Fortune. As Managing Director of Build in Tulsa, Ashli is helping reclaim the narrative: Black Wall Street is not a history lesson, but a blueprint. She believes the next Black-led billion-dollar company will be based in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

What needs to happen to change the current narrative of African Americans in the United States? How can we best celebrate their achievements? In this series on healthcare and social disparities, Dr. Jill Wener, a board-certified Internal Medicine specialist, anti-racism educator, meditation expert, and tapping practitioner, interviews experts and gives her own insights into multiple fields relating to social justice and anti-racism. In this episode, Jill interviews Toni Simmons Henson, executive director of The Southeastern Theatre Conference. They focused on the trauma of and challenges of communicating across lines of difference, the impact of making a political statement just by showing up in a room as oneself, and the importance of self-care for women and mothers who tend to give everything of themselves to their families and can forget to prioritize their own needs. Toni Simmons Henson has over 30 years of expertise in business development, marketing, theatre, and arts administration. She has successfully launched and operated several franchises and businesses throughout her career. One notable venture is Micah 6-8 Media, LLC, responsible for producing the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival, ranked top festival to visit in the world and the Black Family Table Talk, a top ranking podcast. She is also a published poet, best-selling author, public speaker, and award-winning entrepreneur.  Henson is an alumna of New York University, where she earned an MPA in Nonprofit Management, and Howard University, where she obtained her BBA in Business. Additionally, Henson has earned two Executive Certificates, one in Non-profit Management and one in Women in Leadership. LINKS Toni's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/m68m Black Family Table Talk podcast https://blackfamilytabletalk.com/ Atlanta Black Theater Festival https://atlantabtf.org/home ** Our website www.consciousantiracism.com You can learn more about Dr. Wener and her online meditation and tapping courses at www.jillwener.com, and you can learn more about her online social justice course, Conscious Anti Racism: Tools for Self-Discovery, Accountability, and Meaningful Change at https://theresttechnique.com/courses/conscious-anti-racism. If you're a healthcare worker looking for a CME-accredited course, check out Conscious Anti-Racism: Tools for Self-Discovery, Accountability, and Meaningful Change in Healthcare at www.theresttechnique.com/courses/conscious-anti-racism-healthcare Join her Conscious Anti-Racism facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/307196473283408 Follow her on: Instagram at jillwenerMD LinkedIn at jillwenermd

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Brad Fulton, professor of Nonprofit Management and Social Policy at the O'Neill School of Public Affairs at Indiana University, alongside Amber Hacker, Chief of External Affairs at Interfaith America. Our guests discuss the role of religious giving in philanthropy and the surprising trends that emerge from the underlying data. Out of the $557 billion dollars given annually in the United States to charities, twenty percent of the funds come from foundations. Does religious commitment influence that giving? Do we know from available data that generosity makes a person healthier or happier? Does the generation a person's born into—say, a Boomer vs. a Millennial—impact giving patterns? They also discuss new networking tools as it relates to philanthropic giving.    Guests Dr. Brad Fulton Amber Hacker   Additional Resources “Religious Organizations Crosscutting the Nonprofit Sector,” by Brad R. Fulton “Faith-Based Public Foundations: Identifying the Field and Assessing its Impact,” by Allison Ralph and Brad R. Fulton “Money, Meet Meaning,” by Amber Hacker and Tom Levinson

Armando Contreras is the National president and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy Inc. The organization has 55 affiliates, 53 of which are here in the United States and two are in Canada. Armando grew up in East Los Angeles and then attended college at the University of Southern California where he obtained a degree in Business Administration. Later he secured a Master's degree in Divinity from the University of San Francisco.   Armando has worked both in the for profit world as well as for and with several nonprofit organizations. He tells us about all his life adventures including being a cancer survivor now for ten years.   Mr. Contreras and I have a great discussion about his vision for UCP which this year is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Along the way, UCP expanded services beyond just working with persons with Cerebral Palsy. As he explains, the same kinds of services required by people with CP also apply to persons with Downs and Autism.   I hope what Armando discusses with me inspires you as much as it did me. Please let me know what you think.     About the Guest:   Armando A. Contreras is the President and CEO of the Washington, D.C. and Vienna, Virginia-based United Cerebral Palsy Inc., one of the nation's leading health associations providing vital services and advocating for the inclusion of people living with neurodevelopmental disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, autism, and Down syndrome via its 55 affiliates (53 in the U.S. and two in Canada).   A native of Los Angeles, Armando's professional career includes having served as CEO of UCP of Central Arizona, President and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC), Director of the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, and Executive Director of the Council on Small Business under former Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano.   He was featured in Activator Magazine's March 2021 issue (“A Servant Leader's Faithful Journey”). In November 2016, Arizona Business Magazine recognized him as a top CEO in the nonprofit health sector. In 2015, Armando was named one of the most Influential Minority Business Leaders in Arizona. He was also the featured CEO in the December 2013 issue of Arizona Business Magazine, and the Phoenix Business Journal awarded him a Champions in Diversity award in 2012. Armando was a special guest on The Hill newspaper's virtual Disability Summit, featuring policymakers, business and nonprofit leaders discussing ways to increase employment across the disability community.   Armando attended the Harvard School of Business Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program. In May 2001, he was honored to meet with President George W. Bush to discuss faith-based and community initiatives during a White House gathering on the topic.   Today, Armando serves on the Board of SourceAmerica. He is a former member of the Bishop's Finance Committee of the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, and he recently completed a term serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Kino Border Initiative, a binational organization that promotes U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policies that affirm the dignity of the human person.   Armando earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Southern California and a master's degree in theology from the University of San Francisco. He also received certificates from the Indiana University School of Philanthropy and Harvard University.   He and his wife, Norma Contreras, live in Phoenix, where they are active in the community, particularly contributing their time and talents to faith-based social justice issues. The couple has three adult children and a grandson with another grandson on the way.       About the Host:   Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog.   Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards.   https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/   accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/   https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/       Thanks for listening!   Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!   Subscribe to the podcast   If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset .   Leave us an Apple Podcasts review   Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.       Transcription Notes:   Michael Hingson ** 00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson ** 01:21 Welcome to another edition of unstoppable mindset where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet, and I won't go through all that again, it's inclusion because that means we include disabilities. Diversity typically doesn't, but the unexpected is what we get to deal with a lot as well. It's all fun, and we're glad that you're able to be here with us, wherever you happen to be. Our guest today is Armando Contreras, who is the president of United Cerebral Palsy, Inc, and I'm really anxious to hear more about that keeps keeps him, and I think a lot of us busy, and there's a lot of good stories and very relevant things to talk about regarding that. So let's get to it, Armando, I want to thank you and really appreciate you being here. Michael,   Armando Contreras ** 02:06 it's such a pleasure, and really it's an honor that I can be here on your show. So thank you for the kind invitation. Well, you   Michael Hingson ** 02:15 are. You're certainly most welcome, and Armando is one of those people who came to us again because of Sheldon Lewis here at accessibe, and he's he's keeping us busy, which is a good thing, and he's probably working on getting Armando to use accessibe, unless you already are with UCP. I haven't checked the website lately. Well, we   Armando Contreras ** 02:33 have. So we've already put in that, I believe, a plugin, and some of our affiliates are actually using accessibe as well,   Michael Hingson ** 02:43 which is cool, and it does a lot to help, which is, of course, what it's all about. Because accessibe, using AI, is able to do a lot of the work with the AI widget, not all, but a lot that needs to be done. So it's really great that you guys are using it, and I appreciate that and thank you for it, or on behalf of all of us at accessibe, yeah,   Armando Contreras ** 03:04 you're welcome. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 03:06 why don't we start as I love to do at the beginning? Why don't tell us a little bit about kind of the early Armando growing up and all that sort of stuff? Yes, so might as well,   Armando Contreras ** 03:18 yeah, the early Armando, growing up, was in East Los Angeles, in East LA so my father had a disability for most of his life. He had a he was in a car accident, and the doctors had said he would never work again. And right about that time when he had that car accident. I was born. I was the first, the oldest of three and my brother Louis and my sister Elizabeth. So life really changed for him, because he was middle class entrepreneur in Mexico, while he was American citizen. Then when he married my mom, then they moved over to Los Angeles, and eventually East Los Angeles, and that's where I grew up. I grew up pretty much in, you can say, in poverty. And while we were in a neighborhood called in Barrio, it's just a neighborhood of of, really, for the most part, a lot of good people. Our neighbors were fantastic, and we knew each other. So that was kind of like the beginning of many years of really, you know, experiencing disabilities with my dad and seeing what he had gone through. And it was a it was a tough, really. It was a tough. It was tough growing up, let me put it to you that way, for for many reasons. So then later, I got involved with the Catholic Church, Saint Lucy. Catholic Church in Los Angeles or a small town called City terrace, and that kind of that really changed a lot for me, as far as getting involved with community issues, getting involved in helping people, getting involved in connecting with the kind of the local issues that were happening in the city of Los Angeles, because those priests, those Catholic priests, were very involved in that, in ministries, and they went outside of the ministries to help community members, regardless if they were Catholic or not, what. And prior to that, I got involved as a musician. So I was a trumpet player, and I played trumpet at St Lucy's church for about 23 years. But then that that did something, something of sort of a miracle for me, because when I applied after going to a junior college in Los Angeles College, and then I applied to a dream university, USC, so the University of Southern California, and I think one of the big reasons that I got in was because of my community involvement, so that that led to a full scholarship, and that was quite the blessing for me, because there was no way that that we can afford me going to a private university. So, you know, that's kind of like, in the nutshell, my my upbringing, otherwise I would be here three days, you know,   Michael Hingson ** 06:30 yeah, what year? What years were you at USC,   Armando Contreras ** 06:34 I was there. I was there in 8085 through 87 ish, around that time? Yeah, around that that time? Yeah, I graduated in 87   Michael Hingson ** 06:46 that's that's much beyond my favorite USC football game, which was, how was it? I think Notre Dame was leading SC 24 to nothing at the end of the first half. You know, the game, I can tell by the end, it was 55 to 24 USC, which is the way it should be.   Armando Contreras ** 07:07 You know, SC had his great moments, and sc has had their challenging moments. Has Yeah. So, you know, last year, it could have been a better year for us. But, you know, we look to the future. And like I always say, don't fight on. So fight on   Michael Hingson ** 07:23 is right. My wife did her graduate work at SC I've never been to a football game there or anywhere, and one of these days, I'd love to go, but she just passed away in November of 2022 we were married for 40 years, but I've already been an SC fan before I married her, and one of my favorite SC stories is that the day we got married, we arrived at the church, and it was supposed to be a wedding that would pack the church. A lot of people wanted to come and see us get together, but the wedding was supposed to start at four o'clock, and like the church was less than half full on about 412 suddenly the doors opened, and this whole crowd came in, and the wedding went forward, only about 15 minutes late. Later, we tried to find out what it was that kept people away for so long. And what we heard was everyone was in their cars waiting for the end of the USC Notre Dame game. And since SC one, it was that God clearly was on our side.   Armando Contreras ** 08:25 I love that. Yeah, it's a great story. And my my sister, condolences for loss.   Michael Hingson ** 08:31 Well, thank you. You know she her body was just slowing down. She was in a wheelchair her whole life, and just in 2022, things were kind of catching up. And as I say, the spirit tends to move ahead of the body sometimes, and that's what happened. But she's watching somewhere, and if I misbehave, I'll hear about it. I'm not at all worried I'm going to try to be a good kid. But that's great that she did go to USC, and you said something else. I think that's really interesting to me, and that is that where you grew up, people were very nice and very friendly. And I think that is so often true, and a lot of times people stray into some of these areas and they think it's going to be horrible, and they they look for the worst, and they find it because they're not looking for the best. They're not looking to try to find friendly people and and it's so unfortunate that too many, too many times, we don't really look for the best in people. And unfortunately, then it comes out.   Armando Contreras ** 09:34 Well, you know, I I could only say great things about East LA and the barrio that I, that I grew up in, were there elements in there? Of course, sure you were, we were about a block away from from the gang activity, and you just had a choice, right? And thanks to my parents that were super strict, they didn't, they didn't allow me to make those kind of choices when I was younger. You know. To join the gangs, but that element was in front of you, you know, and some of them, some of the folks I still know today, some of them that were in gangs and stuff, now they've settled down. They have families, but I just have to say that there was a sense of community there where I grew up, even, even, or despite the elements that were around us. So yes, do I hear the negativity when they somebody mentions East Los Angeles? Yes, but I could, I have to say that even though we grew up in poverty and even though there was a lot of challenges for us as a family, I I really cherish the neighbors that were there. When I remember that the kind of those gatherings, we had nothing. So there was no we played, you know, with just a regular basketball or something. There was no communication via a cell phone or anything like that. Yeah. So, you know, I have only good things to say. And part of my upbringing there today, I realized that wow, I was I was working on a strategic plan without even knowing what a strategic plan was back in the day. Yeah.   Michael Hingson ** 11:17 Do you think that today it's harder, or there's more of that kind of activity, or is it just that people are now having their attention drawn more to it, and again, still, I think all too often deal with it in such a negative way. But do you think it's worse than it was?   Armando Contreras ** 11:36 I mean, if we're talking about, if we're talking about gang activity. I mean that still, I think, is just as prominent that today, unfortunately, than what it was this as it was back. You know, when I grew up in the night, in the 60s, I believe that leaders, community leaders, our representatives, really have to invest into communities, invest in education, invest in in jobs, right? Because people, naturally, some of them, will start looking for a way of making a living, and they may choose a different route. In addition to that, gangs and they become a family. So, you know, parents do need to, you know, also be aware of what their kids are doing, and support them and and nurture them and show them love, right? And because, if you really get to the bottom of it, and you start speaking to a gang member, she or he, there's underlining problems, and maybe comes from family. You know, there could be so many things that are happening, but I truly have a vision that that someday there's going to be more funds invested into communities like East Los Angeles, because a lot of great people come out of there, and I'm not talking about myself, but there's just a lot of good people, good hearted people, that really like to help their neighbor and others. When   Michael Hingson ** 13:10 I was selling in New York, when still living in California, and would go back and spend days at a time, I stayed at a particular hotel in midtown Manhattan, Near Time Square, and if I went out at night, every so often, somebody would come up and he would say, I'm one of the guardian angels. You're familiar with them? Yes. And he said, I'm with guardian angels. I want to walk with you. And I said, you know, you don't need to. And he said, I want to. And I didn't mind, but what I always felt and and experienced was if I treated people right, if I treated people like people, if I was I was treated like someone, and I didn't really need to fear any of the other kinds of things. Now, I'm sure there were crazies around, but in general, I really do think that if we would be a little bit more open to just accepting and not fear so much those things that we don't understand, or those kinds of communities that we're not as knowledgeable about, and I'm not so much thinking of the gangs, but just all the other communities, like East LA and watts and so on, we would be a whole lot better off, and we would learn to get along with people better.   Armando Contreras ** 14:31 I totally agree with that. I think it's building relationships, right, and getting to help and getting to know, you know, folks from different ethnicities, people with different abilities, right? It all comes together. Here is that, knowing them, respecting them, listening for understanding, and then building a friendship, right? And collaborating together. Um. For the betterment of humanity. That's what I believe, where it's at, and everybody has an opportunity to do that.   Michael Hingson ** 15:08 Yeah, and I just think that we, we, we somehow also need to get the politics out of providing the funds. And I don't know, it's just people have locked themselves into some very hard political decisions sometimes that that don't help the process at all.   Armando Contreras ** 15:26 Yeah? Michael, so yes, yes. Part of it is yes, taking out the politics, but the other part of it is bringing in the politics right? Is letting our our representatives, our public officials, and on the local level, on the municipality level, state level, on the federal level, to bring them in and know what the issues are, because we're all part of the fabric of society. Yeah, all somehow we do give, and we do contribute, and I don't, I don't care what ethnicity, what religion you are, if you if you have a disability, if you don't have a disability, we're all part of the society, and I believe that our representatives really need to know that and how we contribute in a very big way.   Michael Hingson ** 16:16 I think the biggest part is they need to be open to listening to hear that some do, some don't. And I am a firm believer in the fact that over time, all the issues that we need to deal with will get dealt with.   Armando Contreras ** 16:30 I believe so too, and I think those that those that don't listen to communities, for whatever reason it is that eventually somebody in their family or them may end up in that situation themselves, and then, you know, they'll begin to have that lived experience. But while they've had a chance to make a difference, and if they ignore it, then there was a window of opportunity for them to do something.   Michael Hingson ** 17:01 Yeah, well, and, and if they choose to ignore that again, I believe that things will will happen to deal with that, whatever it is, and hopefully it it doesn't a negative, horrible thing that has to happen to make them realize it. But I think in some cases, that has been what has occurred. But I have a lot of faith in the human race. Yes, so do I. Well, so you, what was your degree in from USC?   Armando Contreras ** 17:29 It was in business administration.   Michael Hingson ** 17:32 Ah. And did you go to any football games?   Armando Contreras ** 17:35 I did, yeah, good   Michael Hingson ** 17:36 for you. My wife did too. Yeah.   Armando Contreras ** 17:38 And, and most recently, most recently, I've gone to the last two USC UCLA games. So last year, it was great. It was fantastic. We were at the Rose Bowl at, you know, in UCLA territory this year, not so good. We were so good, not so good. We were at home at the Coliseum. And, you know, it didn't, it didn't work at a while, but it was a fun game. I   Michael Hingson ** 18:04 don't know, what do you think of the coach?   Armando Contreras ** 18:07 Um, I think that he's good, and I think that he will continue to be successful this year, this next year. I think it will be better this year. Yeah, I think so. And they got this young, this young man that showed up at the at the bowl game. I'm trying to remember Miller. I think it was Miller, and it was his name, and he showed up. He was a he, he did a fantastic job. And I do see a great future for him at USC and perhaps in in the in the NFL.   Michael Hingson ** 18:40 Well, it'll be fun. I know they got a new defensive coordinator and that they needed, so we'll, we'll see how it goes. But we won't bore everyone with football and our likes, but it's nevertheless, it's part of the world. So there you go, but then you went on to the University of San Francisco, right?   Armando Contreras ** 19:01 I did. So that was a few years later, and I graduated, I believe, in 2004 and I it was, it was something that drew me, and it was an opportunity for me to get a degree in Theology at a Jesuit university. So at that time, I was working for a faith based Catholic organization, a national organization called the National Catholic council for Hispanic ministry. And what we looked at overall in the United States were the issues of upper mobility for Hispanic Catholics for immigrants, or for our sisters and brothers that are immigrants, the issues that are happening with Hispanic families, education was a huge thing. You know, how do we how do we move, you know, our children that from, you know, grammar school to. Catholic high schools and perhaps Catholic universities were, yeah, unfortunate. Unfortunately, I have to say, is that there's not a whole lot of access, and we're the backbone of the Catholic Church, right? Because it's so expensive. So those were the things that that we were part of, and one of the opportunities that came about was attending the University of San Francisco and and I received, you know, I earned a degree in theology, master's degree, yes,   Michael Hingson ** 20:32 well, let's go back a little bit. So you graduated from SC then what did you do?   Armando Contreras ** 20:37 Well, then I had several jobs after that. I worked for a nonprofit in Los Angeles that helped people get jobs. And then after that, I believe, I went into a construction company as a contract administrator. I was here for maybe a year and a half or so, and then I went on for whatever reason I was interested in real estate. So then I worked for a corporation that did mortgage loans. And in that I met a gentleman who had his own real estate company, and then we decided to start our own real estate company. So I did that for about seven, seven years, and then I I got hired to work with this nonprofit, the National Catholic council that I just mentioned a little bit ago. I was there for about 10 and a half years. So I had I had a chance to travel around the nation and to meet with Hispanic Catholic leaders, lay leaders. I got to meet with religious orders of men and women from Jesuits, Franciscans, many other different orders. So it was, it was really a insightful time for me in those 10 and a half years about our church. And then after that, we moved from Los Angeles to Phoenix. And shortly after that, I got hired. Let's see here. I'm trying to remember the I got hired by governor Janet Napolitano, but I was her small business advocate, and in about 11 months, I moved into being a deputy director of a one of her departments, the Arizona register of contractors, and soon after that, I was on her cabinet. So I was honored to serve under Janet Napolitano when she moved to Washington, DC, because President Barack Obama appointed her as Secretary of Homeland Security. Then I moved on to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, here Arizona, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. And then about a year later, then that's where I had folks come to me and said, there's an organization here that is the United Cerebral Palsy association of central Arizona. And I said, Well, I'm going to maybe put the word out and see who might be interested in that position, which was a CEO position. And then they said, No, we're looking for somebody like you. So to make a long story short, I got hired. And that was really a beginning of of a lot of things. I got hired not because I had the clinical background, or the researcher background, or that I had been involved with disabilities. I got hired so then I can take take that organization to another level, where they wanted to increase the revenues, they wanted to increase their brand awareness. They wanted to make sure that we had stronger collaborations in the community in Arizona, in in Phoenix, and that's why I got hired, to make sure that we enhance that to benefit the children and adults that we were serving.   Michael Hingson ** 24:05 Well. So what do you think about the differences since you've been in a position to have done both working in the for profit corporate kind of world, as opposed to working in the the nonprofit sector? That's,   Armando Contreras ** 24:21 that's Michael. That's a really interesting question, because there are similarities,   Michael Hingson ** 24:27 I know, and I've done the same thing. I've worked for both as well. Well,   Armando Contreras ** 24:31 look, you know, I'm working for a nonprofit, and those that are going to be listening to this, that are CEOs are working in development for both for profits and nonprofits. There's not a whole there's not a big difference there. Because we strive to be sustainable, like a for profit. We strive to look at years to come, because we want to be around and help people in the next 1015, 75, Years which we we're celebrating this year, our 75th anniversary. So part of our responsibility as a leader, as a president and CEO, is really looking beyond the years that you're going to be there. You can, you can serve for one year, 10 years, 20 years, 30 years. But really the i i truly believe that the test is, once you leave, will that organization continue to survive because of what you put together? So to answer your question, a lot of similarities between a for profit and a non profit. However, at the end of the day, the mission for us is to not make a profit, but to be sustainable so we can continue our life saving work   Michael Hingson ** 25:49 and for not, not for profits. Nonprofits generally tend to work more in an arena where they're trying to make a social difference. And although they're they're still selling products. The products are different. They're oftentimes less tangible, although a lot of the services that that they provide, like UCB, UCP provides and so on, end up being very tangible, but still there's there's an intangibility, but still, I agree with you that the reality is that they're very similar. Development is extremely similar to what a for profit company does. And in reality, when you're in development, you're in sales, and when you're in sales, you're in development, it's just that people have come up with two words for the same thing, but they're so similar in what you ultimately are trying to get from them, and ultimately, how you present to people who you want to be your customers or your donors, is so much the same as well.   Armando Contreras ** 27:00 Yeah, I agree with you, Michael, so in development, because I also have a background in fundraising, it's aligning with the folks that have the same vision and that would want to contribute for an impact that's happening in society. So with United Cerebral Palsy and our affiliates are providing direct services to children and adults with cerebral palsy and many other conditions. So there are people that are very, very generous, but I have to say that in the world of philanthropy now, donors are becoming a lot more informed, and they want to make sure that the dollar that they're going to donate, that it's going to go a long way. Yeah, so obviously they're looking at at administrative costs versus your program program costs, right? And that's a good thing. I encourage the philanthropic community to do that, to do their research and to pick those nonprofits in the United States or maybe around the world that are really making a huge impact. Michael, we we serve 100 and approximately 155,000 children and adults on an annual basis, and this is our affiliates that are working day in and day out to provide those services, vital services, life saving services, and services that maybe other organizations don't or people don't want to do. So those are the things that that people that are going to invest their return is really what's happening in the lives of 1000s and hundreds of 1000s of people. Many,   Michael Hingson ** 28:45 many years ago, I remember watching a little bit of a telethon. It was actually on Channel 13 out here, kcop, and it was back in what had to be the early to mid 80s, I think, and it was a telethon put on by the Society for the Prevention of blindness, which I don't even know whether they're around anymore, but at the end of the telethon, they had raised, I think, like $200,000 it was a local, Just independent television station doing it. But what we learned was that 95% of the cost of the telethon went to pay for it, and that the organization only ended up with about 5% of that $200,000 which is, of course, a real problem.   Armando Contreras ** 29:39 It is so like I mentioned before, is that today you're having more informed donors, right, that are looking at that ratio, right? Yeah, how much of their dollar is going to go to actual services, right? Versus cost for putting on a. For putting like you mentioned, a telethon today, there's not a whole lot of telethons going on. Have a million channels, but back in the day, I remember the channels 13, 574, and maybe 11 nine. Yeah, 11 nine. So there was a few more today. What do you have? 234, 100, and then more and all of that. There's other ways that I certainly believe that that can be as impactful and less expensive than the telethons. But sure, you bring up a really good point, is that if you're going to, if you're a donor, if you're a philanthropist, if you really want to have your money change people's lives, they have to do some homework. Yeah, they have to look at that nonprofit and to make sure that 90% of your dollars not going into it, and 90% is not going into it, administrative expenses. It   Michael Hingson ** 30:55 may well be that that 90% works or maybe a little bit less. You're spending a little bit more money on administration, if you can justify it, to say, but look out of that we are able to reach more people and thus get more money. But I do think it's, it's a it's a tight rope.   Armando Contreras ** 31:20 Yeah, I definitely agree with that, that you have to be strategic when you're out fundraising and your your case statement really has to be where it's so compelling that and then showing the data and and and bringing children and adults to tell their story, right of how their lives have been changed. Those are the storytelling is really part, one part, or a major part, of development and fundraising.   Michael Hingson ** 31:56 Well, tell us a little bit about UCP, the history and so on, if you would to inform more people about it.   Armando Contreras ** 32:02 Well, one, you know, I'm, I'm so excited to share with everybody that we're celebrating our 75th anniversary, right? Uh, 75 years of providing vital services, right? 75 years of having our direct service professionals, the folks that are working at home, under the home community based services. We have we have pre Ks, the different therapies that are out there. We have group homes, we have transportation, we have employment. There's so many things that we're bringing to the community. But it started in 1949 right? It started with concerned citizens and concerned parents, that they felt that in that time, which was a totally different world for people with disabilities, that they felt that something more had to happen, that no more can society or the doctors or people in authority can say, would your kids have to go to an institution no matter if they had Down syndrome? Well, maybe autism wasn't. Were so prevalent back then, maybe not as prevalent, but cerebral palsy, spinal bifid, all of that that their kids suddenly were taken away from their home.   Michael Hingson ** 33:22 Well, my parents were told by our doctors that they should send me to a home when it was discovered I was blind, and my parents rejected that, which was very fortunate, but   Armando Contreras ** 33:32 yeah, and good for your parents. And that's how it started, right? I think, I think a lot of nonprofits started in that way, but back in 1949 that's when a group of parents got together and said, we have to do something more right. Then today, we've evolved where we're in the disability world, there's greater access than there was before, there's more inclusion than there was before, right? We're trying at least that used because UCP national and our affiliates, we're trying to help people be more independent, if it's through legislation, research, therapies, everything that we're trying to do. And we're very we're very centric to those issues that are out there, and we're trying to make a huge difference. So what I'm looking at is, I'm looking at another 75 years and that United Cerebral Palsy. One we're trying to in here. Four goals. One is brand awareness. Also let folks know about our 75th year anniversary. But one of the bigger things Michael that is the challenge for us is that United Cerebral Palsy serves children and adults with cerebral palsy and other conditions, so we're trying to bring that message out. And figuring out, how can we let the community know that if your child has Down syndrome autism, that we are there providing vital services for for them as well. The next goal is development, or what we just spoke about, connecting with the philanthropic community, because we, while a lot of our affiliates rely on government funding and reimbursement, I believe that there's another level that we have to engage with, and that's the philanthropic community right. There are millions and millions of dollars. Michael, I go to this to a an event called the heckling event in Orlando, I've been going there for now five years, and those professionals that are working with Planned Giving, some of them will come to me and say that their clients don't know where to give their money to. That's why we're present there, and that's why other profits are there too, as well. Is that we need to educate the community that that you can actually invest in something that's going to bring back this return of investment, but more of a humanity return, and something that's going to be great for society. The other goal that we have is advocacy. So we're known throughout the federal government, the Biden administration, as well as the Trump administration community, communicated with us, especially during COVID So we had communications with the White House. We still do. We're engaged at the Congress and Senate level with various representatives and senators to make sure that they create legislation that's going to be beneficial for our for the for the disability community, and that we don't ever go back to the institutions that that would be their only option. Unfortunately, Michael, today, there's still institutions that exist, not as many as before, but there's still institution the last goal we have is to grow our footprint, not only nationally, but but internationally. So we're having discussions locally, in places that were not present, to grow our footprint, to see how we can collaborate. We're also having, I'm having conversations with people on the global level, like the International cerebral palsy society, like aacpdm, the Academy for cerebral palsy. I've been invited twice, once, well, I got invited last year to the International Congress on cerebral palsy in Mexico City, I got invited again. I was their president, and I gave a speech. And I got invited again this year, in March, I'll be in medida Yucatan at an international congress again, and that brings a lot of awareness for us, brand awareness, and the main thing is really collaboration. So I kind of touched upon some of the some of the goals, Michael, and some of the things that important things and vital things that our affiliates are doing. So if there's, if there's something else that you want me to elaborate, I'd be glad, more than glad to do. So how are   Michael Hingson ** 38:19 you working toward creating more and better brand awareness to the general population?   Armando Contreras ** 38:27 Well, one of the things that we're doing, given that we have this window of opportunity that we're celebrating our 75th year, and that begins in that started in February, and we'll go all the way through January 31 is that one, we have a lot of partners out there that are doing things like you're doing access to be right, that invited me on this program. And that's one of the beautiful things that in social media, it's not it's not very expensive for us to be out there. So we're using the media vehicles such as LinkedIn, Facebook and the others that are out there. And we're also using YouTube to spread the message out there. So we're we're also sharing the stories of our affiliates and their accomplishments and the people that are being served, the parents and their children, so they can share those great stories that sometimes are miracle stories because of the people that are serving them and providing quality services, care and love. So that's one vehicle. The other one is that I I was on 26 I traveled to 26 locations last year, so I'm also providing that message out there. And then within our affiliate network, they're also doing marketing, and they're doing. Brand awareness as well. So it's a whole it's really this whole core nation that we want, not only the nation, no, but globally. Let the people know who is you at UCP and United Cerebral Palsy,   Michael Hingson ** 40:16 what caused UCP to add in as part of the services that are provided, services for people with downs and autism, as opposed to just UCP   Armando Contreras ** 40:32 or UCP. Yeah, so if I go back to when I was at the local United Cerebral Palsy the UC central Arizona. It just happened to be that the programs, the same programs that were provided for children and adults with cerebral palsy, also were beneficial to other conditions. I'm not a researcher, but when there's a breakthrough in cerebral palsy or in autism or in a different condition, they try to see if that same breakthrough will help people with different conditions. What we do know is that the therapies that are being offered to children and adults with cerebral palsy, those same types of therapies are also impactful to other conditions. So what was happening is that, then parents started to to, I guess, the word went out, and what we have across the board in the United States is that we have a high percentage of non cerebral palsy clients, or we'll call them family members, that are are getting services because that's much needed. One Michael is like respite, like respite care. You know any, any family can use that rest, that respite care, no matter what the condition is. So if you're offering that, then you can offer it to the disability community, a broad range of of people that have various conditions,   Michael Hingson ** 42:13 which makes perfect sense, because a lot of the care that needs to be provided is very similar. Well, or is the same? Yes, well, you know, you, I understand, had a an involvement with cancer, and you survived that. How has that affected you and in your attitude? Because, clearly, you're a very sensitive person and very much involved in community and family and helping people. But what, what was the whole situation with you in cancer?   Armando Contreras ** 42:42 You know, I think it's that. I think that's, it's the experience that all people go through when they first hear that you have cancer, right? First thought is, are you going to survive? You know, the first, first thing that comes to you is that it's, it's terminal, right? You're not going to get through it. You know this when you hear news like that, and you know, maybe it's the same as parents hearing that their child has cerebral palsy or disability, you know, you just, you just, it's a scary moment. It's a scary time. So what? Yeah, it was a difficult time for me and for my family, especially, I think my family knowing that I had transitional carcinoma, high grade, and it was a it was a tumor in my bladder that was nine and a half centimeters. I haven't really talked about it a lot, but it's been 10 years. So February, when I had seen that as a suggestion, like you want to talk about that, my first thought was, No, I think I'm going to skip it. But a few seconds later, I said, maybe it's time for me to share with the community, because it's been 10 years since I was diagnosed so and I'll try to make this short, I got diagnosed huge tumor. They had asked me if I wanted that tumor to be taken out, otherwise I could die. And I said, of course. So they took out the tumor. I had a brilliant surgeon that did that. And then after that, they basically said to me that if I don't, if I don't do radical surgery, taking out my bladder, taking out some lymph nodes, my prostate, that I wouldn't live very long, that I had really, like a 35% chance or less to live. So I had said that I wanted to put a pause on this rush, and that perhaps there's an option out there, perhaps there was another way, because I knew that billions of dollars have been raised for cancer. And maybe because this is a whole new journey for me, that the cure was somewhere out there. Well, after going to five different doctors for second opinions, they all said the same to me, that I only had one choice, and that choice radical surgery. And even after that, even after that, I was still I was confused, I was scared, but I was still. There was a pause that I felt that maybe there was something out there. So thanks to my sister, she really saved my life. She connected me with the scientists that she was researching, and that scientist said, you know, I only, I've only done lab studies on this particular oil called frankincense oil. I haven't done any clinical studies, and today, Michael, there's still no clinical studies on frankincense oil. So I started doing that three months after they they took the tumor out. I had 20 more tumors come back in my bladder. But they were small. They were lesions. So I just asked them to scrape, scrape them. The doctors were furious with me. I get it. I mean, that was, that was a protocol. I totally get it, you know. But something, people say that I had a lot of courage. I'm not sure if it was, like just something, it could have been something was telling you. I mean, I definitely there was a lot of prayer during that time. Yeah, a lot of prayer happening at that time. I just couldn't see myself dying, and I didn't want that to happen. So just to kind of, like, kind of close on this is that when those 20 tumors came back, they scraped them. They were supposed to be a lot more coming back, or it was going to invade my body. Three months later, I had nothing, absolutely nothing. Three months after that, I had six lesions come back, and that was March of 2015, so it's been nine years since the last reoccurrence. It's been 10 years since I was diagnosed, and I get checked very often. Once a year in the beginning, I would go in and get checked every three months. So it's been quite the miracle. But I have to say, this is that one I changed. I had changed my diet at the time for about four and a half years, I was strictly doing a lot of juicing, no sugar, a lot of prayer, a lot of family love, a lot of support. I did the frankincense oil. So I think in a comprehensive way, that helped me, and that gave me another option. And I'm very grateful for that, and I'm very grateful that every day I wake up and I say to God, thank you for sparing me. But on the advocacy side, Michael, I just didn't leave it there. I've had conversations with with the with the University of Arizona, with the Arizona State University, with Cancer Centers of America, with St Joseph's Hospital, with my alma mater, USC, and the last conversation I had was with Georgetown University, and these were top CEOs. And I was sharing my documentation, because I have it all there. But sadly, I have to say that they're not interested. They're not interested in a cure, and I'll continue to pursue it when the opportunity continues on, but it's only my story, and I didn't want to leave it where. Well, Lord, thank you so much. You know it never came back, so thank you. No, I have a responsibility to figure out some ways, somehow, that my my story, can turn into a clinical study, and that someday, and maybe not in my my time, that there's going to be an option for millions of people that will contract cancers. So that's my story in a nutshell. Thank you for asking.   Michael Hingson ** 49:04 So what did the frankincense oil actually do? I assume that you feel it was a very significant part of your ability to deal with it.   Armando Contreras ** 49:12 Yeah, it's a good question, because medically, I can't tell you, because we haven't done right? Yeah, we haven't done clinical studies. And I've been, I've been asking these universities and these hospitals and these cancer firms, you know that are out there, and said, Why don't we do the clinical studies so you can so you can see exactly what it did. I can't tell you that what it did. The only thing I can tell you is that is that as they, as they as they took samples of the cancerous tumors. So you had the big tumor, and then the 20 small tumors, and then you had the six lesions that, according to the scientists, dr, dr Lynn, HK Lynn, what he did see is that the cancer cells were becoming less aggressive. And at the end, some of the cancer cells actually turn into good cells. Now, you know, people can believe that or not. I'm I'm okay with that. Sure, only thing I'm saying, Michael is that there should be, there should be clinical studies on this, because I believe it would save hundreds of 1000s of lives. What was it? We don't know. Was it the combination? Is it the combination of me juicing on a daily basis for four and a half years? Was it that, as a Catholic, you know, I was going through all the different sacraments, prayers and healing masses? So I believe there was a holistic healing process. And then my family that was supporting me during a very difficult time,   Michael Hingson ** 50:49 sounds to me like it's time to write a book.   Armando Contreras ** 50:54 I've I've been asked many times, and I think when I think, when, when I feel that, that when I'm ready for that, that, yeah, that's that will happen.   Michael Hingson ** 51:03 Yes, you've got to, you've got to feel ready and feel that it's the right time. But that might be one way to bring visibility to it. Yes, well, you know, you you value family a lot. I understand that there are music connections in your family, has music always been a part of your life or   Armando Contreras ** 51:24 or, yeah, I think I think so. I think that. Well, I know so, because when I was the trumpet player, young trumpet player at St Lucy's Catholic Church, a few years later, my lovely wife, Norma, joined the choir. I didn't know she was married, but she joined the choir. And you know, we have this thing that she doesn't agree with me, but I say, hey, when I when I met you, when I seen you, was love at first sight. And and I said, but not for you. It took a while. And she says, no, no, but so So music, I was playing trumpet, normal was singing. And then later we got married, and then we had our first child. Was Andrea, Andrea Michelle, our daughter, our beautiful daughter, who's with child today, her and her husband, Fabian. So she knew that in our home there was a lot of music happening, and if it was church or at home. And then our second child, Armando, Michael, he started catching on a little bit, but we started to notice that he started to sing and sing right in tune. And then we said, hey, maybe there's something here. So his first recital in Los Angeles, he's saying pop by the Sailor Man and over the rainbow. And he did pretty good. So later he joined as a as a young child, you know, five years old, he joined the choir at St Lucy's. And then we moved. We moved from, we moved from Los Angeles over to Phoenix, Arizona, which was a great blessing being here. And we then were exploring how we can continue to support his talent. And he joined the Grammy Award winning Phoenix boys choir, and that's where he began to sing. Got to meet some wonderful people. They had wonderful directors there, and had a great experience. That experience led him to fall in love with the classics. Oh, there he began to be part of some of the local, local opera performances. So to make a long story short, Norma, my wife and I supported him. He went to the Cleveland Institute of Music, from there in vocals, and then from there, he went to the University of Missouri in Kansas City for his masters. And today he's a professional opera singer. He's a baritone. So it's it's been amazing. All our kids are amazing. I also have to mention that our youngest Andrew, Matthew. He went to Gonzaga University and then graduated from Lewis and Clark in clinical psychology. He's worked with a lot of kids with disabilities. He's a drummer and he's a guitar player. So yes, music is a big part of our family.   Michael Hingson ** 54:28 Well, it is getting to be that time of the year that Gonzaga will become visible again as we get back down to march madness. I actually, I actually had the pleasure of going up there once to speak and and I hadn't really known a lot about Gonzaga at the time, and they were the ones who told me, however, one always said, Where is Gonzaga? You know what? What kind of a place is it? And so I've kept up with it ever since, but it is kind of funny that their basketball team is good. Yeah.   Armando Contreras ** 54:59 Yeah, it's a, it's a beautiful place. It's a great Jesuit university. We, I, you know, he had a great experience. This is Andrew. He had a great experience out there. So, yes, I totally agree. Yeah, we had a chance to go out to Bob, trying to remember the city here. Spokane, yeah, yeah, yeah. Spokane, various times with him,   Michael Hingson ** 55:25 that's pretty cool. Well, so is he professionally doing music now? No, so,   Armando Contreras ** 55:30 So Andrew, our youngest, he's professionally now a clinical psychologist. Ah, yeah, now and now. Armando, Michael, he is a professional opera singer, right? And that's what he does. So, you know, his, his, one of his dreams, is going to be singing at the Metropolitan Ooh, we do see that perhaps happening within a year or two, because they he'll be, right? He'll be auditioning for that, probably very soon, and he's very young. He's just 34 years old.   Michael Hingson ** 56:03 So that'd be super What would you like people to know about the disability community in general, when we think about disabilities, you know, when there's so many prejudices, what would you like people to know and in terms of disabilities and how to maybe change attitudes, yeah,   Armando Contreras ** 56:23 well, they're definitely part of the fabric of society, and we, nobody, not me, or anybody else in in any organization, can speak for them. We need to allow for them and give them that opportunity and space to voice their concerns, to voice whatever joy they have, to voice things that we need to hear in our community. We have to provide while we're here in the United States, and there's been laws that have been enacted, enacted that laws now have to be updated. We have antiquated laws that do not even pay people with disabilities even minimum wage, right? So, so that we really have to be conscious of a community that is part of our society. We need to engage. Furthermore, we have to collaborate. We need them as public, public officials. They need to run for office, right? Some of them do. They have to be part of the decision making, decisions that are being made from all levels of government, all levels of corporation, all levels of nonprofits. And that's the way, that's the way I really see it. Is that, and we also have to have breakthroughs in research, right? What are some of the things that that we can do so we can those lives can be more that they would have more of a more access, right? That even if you go to certain states in the United States that I've been, there's not even accessibility for wheelchairs. And just speak about the airlines, right? How, how and why are people thinking in those corporations that a person that has a disability can easily go into their bathrooms. There's no way, right flying, especially if it's a long flight. So no, there's, there's been some great things Michael that have, that have evolved and happened through a collaboration of a lot of advocates, and a lot of them are self advocates, but we still have a long way to go.   Michael Hingson ** 59:08 Yeah, and I think that's absolutely true. So what is UCP Inc doing to celebrate its 75th anniversary? What kinds of plans do you have and where do you go from here?   Armando Contreras ** 59:19 Well, we do have a an annual conference coming up in Orlando, and this year in April. So that's a good thing for us, you know. But the bigger thing for us is to celebrate is really bringing that education, bringing that awareness of what we're doing, not only in here in the United States, but we also have affiliates in Canada. So as we celebrate, part of our celebration is educating the society about exactly what we do and please, you know, knock on our door for for help. So that's that's really part of it. The other part of it is acknowledge. Gene, the folks that started UCP back in 1949 right? Like the, like the golden sins, and also the housemans and many others that that have helped us get through the 75 years.   Michael Hingson ** 1:00:18 Yeah, well, it's, a great milestone to be able to celebrate 75 years, and I am sure that you, with your background, is very concerned about making sure that there is great sustainability for the future, which is really important and cool that you're thinking about that, because it's something that always needs to be with us in whatever we're doing. That's a good thing. Any kind of last thoughts that you have that you want to convey to people who are listening or watching us.   Armando Contreras ** 1:00:51 Yes, one is first, I want to share my gratitude for inviting me, Michael. And then second, please reach out to us the disability community. Please find us@ucp.org we may be in your backyard. If there are organizations out there that want to become an affiliate of United Cerebral Palsy, please reach out to us as well. We are here. We want to continue to be here for the next 75 years, so that our community can be part and be an inclusive part of our society. That we can bring that help, bring that independence, but we can continue to see those miracles, that children that we're told, and families that were told that they would never walk. I've seen them walk, and were physicians that said to a mom and dad that their child would never move or never speak, and I've seen them hug their parents and tell them that they love them, right? And we want to continue to make those miracles happen through therapies, through early detection, through early intervention, all these forms of of of a reach that we have through United Cerebral Palsy in the United States and Canada and and watched for us in the near future as we begin to go global, and that's really a vision that that I have. But and also, again, is that it's important to know that we know that I know that, Michael, you know that is that everybody is a fabric at society, some way, somehow, no matter their abilities. And that's really important, important message for people to know.   Michael Hingson ** 1:02:43 I agree. Well, I want to thank you for being here with us and conveying all this information, and I hope people will take it to heart and that they'll support UCP and and reach out and learn more about the organization and that you are doing, and will continue to do a lot to just help people in general, with disabilities, which is cool. I appreciate that, and I want to thank Go ahead. No, no.   Armando Contreras ** 1:03:10 I just wanted to thank and I also want to thank accessibe, right? That's how we got here. So I really thank them for what they're doing and providing. I love their model that they have. They have a for profit, a for profit model. However, the services that they, that they provide for nonprofits, are free, and that's that's amazing. So we're really happy with the services, the access services for websites, the accessibility that they're providing for people in the disability community to have that access. Well,   Michael Hingson ** 1:03:48 thank you, and we're excited about the time ahead and and I think that's that's a good thing, and we'll all work to make it happen. Well, I want to thank everyone who was listening and watching today. We really appreciate it. I hope that you'll give us a five star rating wherever you're observing our podcast. We value that. Love it. If you'd reach out to me, give me your thoughts, your opinions and Armando for you and for all of our guests, our listeners and so on today, if you know of anyone else who ought to be a guest on unstoppable mindset, please let us know. Provide introductions. We're always looking for guests. You can reach out to me directly at Michael H, i@accessibe.com that's m, I, C, H, A, E, L, H, I at accessibe, A, C, C, E, S, S, I, B, e.com, or go to our podcast page, www dot Michael hinkson.com/podcast, and Michael Hinkson is spelled M, I C, H, A, E, L, H, I N, G, S o, n.com/podcast, so we really do value all the thoughts and and information and suggestions that people provide. Yeah, as I think I've mentioned to many of you before, I also do travel and speak, especially after September 11, 2001 if anyone needs a speaker, please reach out. You can get me easiest at speaker at Michael hingson.com but however you do it, you've got all sorts of ways to reach out to me. Love to hear from you. And you know, once again, Armando, I want to thank you very much for being here, and thank you for all of your time today.   Armando Contreras ** 1:05:24 Michael, thank you many blessings to you and your family, and many blessings to everybody out there who is going to listen to this podcast interview.   Michael Hingson ** 1:05:39 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com . AccessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for Listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

Kristian Alomá, PhD, is the Founder and CEO of Threadline, a brand-building agency. He is also a lecturer at Northwestern University's Kellogg School Center for Nonprofit Management, where he teaches branding for nonprofits, donor stewardship, storytelling, digital fundraising, and behavior design. With over two decades of experience applying narrative psychology, identity, and behavioral economics to marketing and market research, Kristian has helped some of the world's largest brands, including Coca-Cola, Harley Davidson, and FedEx, improve their narratives. He is also the author of Start with the Story: Brand-Building in a Narrative Economy. In this episode… Advertising and marketing have poor reputations for deceiving customers, often stemming from brands that position themselves as the heroes of their campaigns to manipulate consumers into making purchases. In an economy that relies on stories to make sense of experiences, consumers are the primary drivers. How can you craft a brand story that strengthens your customer relationships? According to behavioral marketer Kristian Alomá, every brand-customer relationship must begin with a story encapsulating your unique value proposition (UVP). To identify your UVP, it's essential to define your target audience's main struggle, your solution to the problem, your company's objective, and the reward customers receive from engaging with you. However, the UVP should only form the basis for your story rather than dictate how it's conveyed to consumers. Instead, you should view your organization from the customer's perspective, informing your approach to storytelling and services.  Tune in to this episode of the Up Arrow Podcast as William Harris chats with Kristian Alomá, the Founder and CEO of Threadline, about building a brand story to foster authentic customer relationships. Kristian explains the seven elements of a customer-brand relationship, how to market ethically, and the significance of the narrative economy in brand building.

Public Health Careers podcast episode with Darnell Barrington, MPH

Participants will discover how to harness the voices and perspectives of our youth to tackle community challenges. While some may feel disheartened by the behaviors of teens, fostering genuine connections can transform them into powerful allies in our efforts rather than seeing them as obstacles.Katrena Perou is a seasoned collective impact strategist with over 21 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. As the Founding Executive Director of Inspiring Minds NYC (IMNYC), she specializes in developing transformative community engagement models across various districts in New York City.Katrena's previous roles include Director at Groundwork Inc., CAMBA, and Chief Program Officer at Urban Arts Partnership, where she has demonstrated a profound ability to identify and leverage assets within partner communities to create program models and initiatives that unite stakeholders around common goals centered on youth empowerment.Her work was particularly impactful during the pandemic. She engaged underserved youth and earned recognition in local and national media outlets such as PIX11, CBS, and Good Day NY.Katrena firmly believes that passion, skills, talent, hard work, and resilience are key to solving problems in any community. This principle has enabled her to make a significant impact, sharing her expertise through TED Talks and participating in various state-wide and national conferences.Her contributions have been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Al Vann Legacy Award, the Women of Distinction Award from the NY State Assembly, and the Power Women of Brooklyn Award.Additionally, she was inducted into the Cleveland Heights Hall of Fame.Katrena began as a standout basketball player on a Final Four team at Penn State University, where she completed her undergraduate degree. She further advanced her leadership skills by completing the Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Management at Columbia University. To explore Katrena's passion for her work, visit her inspiring TEDx Talks on YouTube.Tune in for this sensible conversation at TalkRadio.nyc

In this episode, host Sarah Olivieri talks with Dr. Renee Rubin Ross about incorporating equity into strategic planning for nonprofits. Dr. Ross, a leader in board and organizational development, shares her journey from being fired from a prestigious job to becoming a consultant committed to racial equity. They discuss her approach to inclusive strategic planning, emphasizing the importance of gathering diverse perspectives, naming what's in the room, and building trust over time. Dr. Ross also touches on her upcoming book, 'Sparking Inclusive Strategic Planning,' and offers valuable insights on how nonprofit leaders can enhance their strategic planning processes for greater impact. Episode Highlights The Importance of Inclusive Strategic Planning Practical Tips for Strategic Planning Addressing Emotions in Planning Meetings Encouraging Open Dialogue Steps to Inclusive Strategic Planning Building Trust Over Time Meet the Guest Dr. Renee Rubin Ross is a recognized leader in board and organizational development and strategy and the founder of The Ross Collective, a consulting firm that designs and leads inclusive, participatory processes for social sector boards and staff. Committed to racial equity in the nonprofit sector, Dr. Ross guides leaders and organizations in strategic plans and governance processes that deepen social change, racial justice, stakeholder engagement, and community strength. In addition to her consulting work, Dr. Ross is the Director of the Cal State University East Bay Nonprofit Management Certificate program and teaches Strategic Planning and Board Development for the program. Dr. Ross lives in Northern California. She is a past Board member of the Alliance for Nonprofit Management and a member of the Technology of Participation facilitator's network. Her Doctorate in Education and Jewish Studies from New York University explored parent participation in schools. Connect with Renee: Website- https://www.therosscollective.com/ Subscribe to our e-list- https://www.therosscollective.com/subscribe LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneerubinross/ Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don't miss a single episode, and while you're at it, won't you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn. Connect with Sarah: On LinkedIn>> On Facebook>> Subscribe on YouTube>>

How can urban farming not only feed a community but also foster connection and education? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Anna Withers and Kevin Prather from Springfield Community Gardens. Together, they dive into the organization's mission to promote healthy local food access and support aspiring farmers. Learn how Springfield Community Gardens has grown to manage 16 gardens across the city, offering educational programs and farmer incubator opportunities, all while practicing regenerative agriculture and fostering community involvement. Tune in to discover how urban farming initiatives like Springfield Community Gardens are shaping the future of local food systems and inspiring others to connect with the land!   Episode Highlights: Beginnings: Anna and Kevin's journey into farming [1:03] Mission: What Springfield Community Gardens is all about [4:36] Education: Focus of their farmer incubator program [13:18] Season Extension: Tunnels and hoop houses on the farm [18:04] Land Access: Leasing agreement for state hospital land [20:44] Soil Health: Fertility programs and resolving lead issues [25:55] Support: Where SCG's funding and support come from [30:46] Youth Program: How SCG engages the next generation [33:51]   About the Guest: Anna Withers is the Farmer and Resource Development Manager for Springfield Community Gardens. She uses her business degree with a concentration in Nonprofit Management to help farmers grow and expand their businesses, while also teaching youth about their roles in the food system. Anna is a proud consumer of local food and aims to make it easier for everyday people to access farm fresh goods. After starting as an apprentice at a small farm in Springfield, MO, Kevin Prather has spent the last decade immersed in regenerative ag at multiple farms, teaching what he's learned along the way. He's the founding farmer of Amanda Belle's Hospital Farm, which partners with our city's largest hospital system. Now SCG's farmer educator, he runs the on-site internship program with funding from the EPA environmental justice grant.   Connect with Springfield Community Gardens: Website: Springfield Community Gardens Facebook: Like on Facebook Instagram: Follow on Instagram YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube   The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central! Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden. We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we've got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders. Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!  

In this episode of the How to Protect the Ocean podcast, host Andrew Lewin sits down with Marcus Reamer, a PhD candidate at the University of Miami specializing in environmental communication. They delve into the critical role of effective messaging in conservation efforts, particularly concerning the North Atlantic right whales. The discussion covers the evolution of communication strategies over the last two decades, the impact of media coverage on conservation stories, and the conflicts that can arise in journalism related to environmental issues. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of communication in environmental advocacy and learn how to take action for a better ocean. Connect with Marcus: https://www.marcusreamer.com/ Follow a career in conservation: https://www.conservation-careers.com/online-training/ Use the code SUFB to get 33% off courses and the careers program.   Do you want to join my Ocean Community? Sign Up for Updates on the process: www.speakupforblue.com/oceanapp   Sign up for our Newsletter: http://www.speakupforblue.com/newsletter   Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3NmYvsI Connect with Speak Up For Blue: Website: https://bit.ly/3fOF3Wf Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rIaJSG TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speakupforblue Twitter: https://bit.ly/3rHZxpc YouTube: www.speakupforblue.com/youtube Environmental communication plays a crucial role in raising awareness and understanding of conservation issues, particularly concerning endangered species like the North Atlantic right whale. In a recent podcast episode featuring Marcus Reamer, a PhD candidate at the University of Miami, the complexities of environmental communication and its impact on conservation efforts are explored in depth. Importance of Environmental Communication Connecting People to the Ocean: As host Andrew Lewin emphasizes, effective communication is essential for fostering a connection between individuals and the ocean. This responsibility extends beyond scientists and communicators; everyone has a role in sharing knowledge about the ocean and its inhabitants. This grassroots approach can cultivate a community of informed advocates for marine conservation. Understanding Complex Issues: The episode highlights the intricate challenges surrounding the North Atlantic right whale, including entanglements in fishing gear and shipping traffic. Environmental communication helps distill these complex issues into understandable narratives, enabling the public to grasp their significance and the urgent need for action. Media's Role in Shaping Perceptions: Marcus discusses his research on media coverage of right whales, noting that the presentation of these stories can significantly influence public perception. For instance, the media often focuses on dramatic events, such as whale deaths or conflicts between conservation efforts and the fishing industry. This can create an "issue attention cycle," where the media highlights problems but may not provide a balanced view of potential solutions or positive developments. Storytelling as a Tool: The power of storytelling in environmental communication is emphasized throughout the episode. By sharing compelling narratives about the lives of right whales and the efforts to protect them, communicators can engage audiences on an emotional level. This connection can inspire individuals to take action, whether through advocacy, supporting conservation organizations, or altering personal behaviors that impact marine ecosystems. Diverse Stakeholders: The episode also addresses the various stakeholders involved in the conservation of right whales, including fishermen, conservationists, and policymakers. Effective environmental communication must consider these diverse perspectives to foster dialogue and collaboration. By understanding the interests and concerns of all parties, communicators can help bridge gaps and promote solutions that benefit both the whales and the fishing communities. Educational Initiatives: Marcus's background in animal care and training underscores the importance of education in environmental communication. By educating the public about marine life and conservation issues, individuals can become more informed advocates. This education can take many forms, from formal programs to informal interactions, all contributing to a broader understanding of the challenges facing endangered species. Conclusion In summary, environmental communication is a vital component of conservation efforts, particularly for endangered species like the North Atlantic right whale. By effectively conveying complex issues, utilizing engaging storytelling, and fostering connections among diverse stakeholders, communicators can raise awareness and inspire action. As illustrated in the podcast, the future of marine conservation hinges on our ability to communicate effectively and meaningfully about the challenges and successes of protecting our oceans and their inhabitants. The Role of Media in North Atlantic Right Whale Conservation In the podcast episode featuring Marcus Reamer, a PhD candidate studying environmental communication, the discussion delves into the critical role that media plays in the conservation of North Atlantic right whales. The conversation highlights several key aspects of how media coverage influences public perception, policy decisions, and ultimately, the fate of these critically endangered marine mammals. Historical Context and Media Coverage The episode outlines a timeline of media coverage regarding North Atlantic right whales, particularly focusing on significant changes over the past two decades. Initially, from 2010 to 2017, coverage was sporadic and often limited to basic updates, such as sightings or warnings from NOAA urging vessels to slow down in areas where right whales were present. This period was characterized by a lack of in-depth reporting or comprehensive narratives surrounding the challenges faced by these whales. However, the situation shifted dramatically in 2017, a year marked by a series of whale fatalities, particularly in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This tragic event catalyzed a surge in media attention, leading to what Reamer describes as an "issue attention cycle." This theoretical framework explains how media coverage can fluctuate based on public interest and significant events. As the number of reported deaths increased, so did the media's focus on the plight of the North Atlantic right whale, often dramatizing the conflict between conservation efforts and the fishing industry. Themes in Media Coverage Reamer's research involved a content analysis of 13 years of news articles from major U.S. newspapers, revealing several themes in the coverage of right whales. The findings indicated that the media often emphasized the dramatic aspects of the situation, such as entanglements in fishing gear and the contentious debates surrounding fishing regulations. This focus on conflict can shape public perception, leading to polarized views on conservation efforts versus economic interests. Interestingly, while the media highlighted the challenges and tragedies faced by right whales, there was a noticeable lack of optimistic narratives. Stories about successful conservation efforts, such as the birth of new calves or positive changes in policy, were less frequently reported. This imbalance in coverage can contribute to a sense of hopelessness among the public, potentially diminishing support for conservation initiatives. The Impact of Documentaries The episode also discusses the emergence of two documentaries about North Atlantic right whales, which provided an opportunity for deeper exploration of the issue. Reamer conducted a critical examination of these films, analyzing their storytelling techniques and the messages they conveyed. Documentaries can serve as powerful tools for raising awareness and fostering empathy, but they also reflect the complexities of the conservation narrative. By comparing the two films, Reamer aimed to understand how different approaches to storytelling can influence audience perceptions and engagement with the issue. This aspect of his research underscores the importance of media not just as a source of information, but as a participant in shaping environmental politics and public discourse. Conclusion The podcast episode with Marcus Reamer sheds light on the intricate relationship between media coverage and the conservation of North Atlantic right whales. As the media plays a pivotal role in framing the narrative around these endangered animals, it is crucial for journalists and communicators to strive for balanced reporting that includes both the challenges and successes of conservation efforts. By doing so, they can foster a more informed and engaged public, ultimately contributing to the protection and recovery of North Atlantic right whales. Engaging with diverse stakeholders and understanding their perspectives is essential for effective communication in conservation, as it helps navigate complex issues and fosters a more comprehensive dialogue. This concept is particularly relevant in the context of the North Atlantic right whale conservation efforts discussed in the podcast episode featuring Marcus Reamer. Importance of Diverse Stakeholder Engagement Complexity of Issues: The conservation of North Atlantic right whales involves multiple stakeholders, including fishermen, conservationists, policymakers, and the general public. Each group has its own interests, concerns, and knowledge about the whales and their habitats. For instance, lobster fishers may be concerned about regulations that affect their livelihoods, while conservationists focus on the survival of the critically endangered species. Understanding these diverse perspectives is crucial for developing effective communication strategies that address the needs and concerns of all parties involved. Fostering Comprehensive Dialogue: As Marcus pointed out, communication surrounding right whale conservation is not just about presenting facts; it's about creating a dialogue that includes all stakeholders. This dialogue can help identify common ground and shared goals, which is essential for collaborative problem-solving. By engaging with various stakeholders, conservationists can better understand the complexities of the issues at hand and work towards solutions that are acceptable to all parties. Media's Role in Shaping Perspectives: The podcast highlights how media coverage can influence public perception and stakeholder engagement. For example, the issue attention cycle described by Marcus illustrates how media narratives can shift focus from one aspect of conservation to another, often dramatizing conflicts between stakeholders. By analyzing media coverage, conservationists can identify which narratives are being amplified and how they may affect stakeholder perceptions. This understanding can inform more balanced and inclusive communication strategies that consider the viewpoints of all stakeholders. Empowering Stakeholders: Engaging with diverse stakeholders also empowers them to participate in the conservation dialogue. As Marcus mentioned, individuals who may not be directly involved in conservation efforts, such as local community members, can still have valuable insights and experiences that contribute to the conversation. By including these voices, conservationists can create a more holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to right whale conservation. Building Trust and Collaboration: Effective communication that includes diverse perspectives helps build trust among stakeholders. When stakeholders feel heard and understood, they are more likely to collaborate on conservation initiatives. This trust is essential for navigating the often contentious issues surrounding conservation, such as fishing regulations and habitat protection. Conclusion In summary, engaging with diverse stakeholders and understanding their perspectives is vital for effective communication in conservation. It allows for a more nuanced understanding of complex issues, fosters comprehensive dialogue, and ultimately leads to more effective conservation strategies. As highlighted in the podcast, the case of the North Atlantic right whale serves as a poignant example of how diverse stakeholder engagement can shape the future of conservation efforts.

Are you a nonprofit leader battling burnout? If you're working in the nonprofit sector, chances are you've had some experience with burnout, which is why I was so excited to sit down with special guest and nonprofit coach, Elle McPherson. She breaks down burnout red flags, contributing factors, balancing woo with logic, and so much more. This is a great episode for leaders looking for practical strategies to overcome burnout!   About Elle Elle has over 15 years of experience in coaching, financial management, accounting, fundraising, proposal writing and grant management, and human resources. She has worked with a range of nonprofits including Ashoka, AmeriCorps, Outward Bound, and Heifer International. Elle earned a MBA in Nonprofit Management and MA in Sustainable International Development from the Heller School of Social Policy & Management at Brandeis University and a BA in Political Science from Bates College. Elle is an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coaching Federation and received her professional coach certification from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC), and is certified in the Energy Leadership Index Assessment tool. She is also a Certified Erotic Blueprint Coach™ as well as a Certified Accelerated Evolution™ Trainer-in-Training and RYT-200 Kripalu-trained yoga teacher.   Read the podcast transcript here.   Episode Summary In this episode, you'll learn strategies for preventing burnout, including: Coaching nonprofit leaders (5:20) Leadership transformation (8:35) Overcoming burnout (10:45) Contributing factors of burnout (12:35) Shifting your money mindset (15:40) Scarcity ingrained in our culture ( 24:30) Balancing woo with practicality (27:25) Moving from analysis to taking action (30:50) Self-improvement book recommendations (40:15)   Teasers “I know what it's like to work in nonprofit. I know the stress, I know the different issues. I know how unique it could be to have really specific funding requirements and certain things that don't even exist in the for-profit world.”   “Stress is not conducive to new ideas and getting out there and doing things differently. It kind of puts people in a bit of like a survival mindset.” “In the culture, there is this idea of if you're helping people, if you're a nurse, if you're a healer, if you're a helper, that it should somehow be sacrificing.”   Resources The Best Tools for an Efficient & Prosperous Nonprofit: https://100degreesconsulting.com/tools/  Zesto Website: https://www.zestso.com/about  Connect with Elle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elle-mcpherson/  Keep up to date with the podcast: @100degreesconsulting Follow Stephanie on Instagram: @stephanie.skry/  Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieskryzowski/  Visit the podcast page: https://100degreesconsulting.com/preventing-burnout    Want more of the podcast? New episodes are released weekly! Find them all plus show notes and exclusive bonus content at 100degreesconsulting.com/podcast. Leave us a review! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about this episode! Subscribe to the show so you don't miss a thing!  

Sal Alaimo, friend of the SnapCast, is a Professor of Nonprofit Management with the School of Community Leadership and Development at Grand Valley State University. He visits with Mickey to talk about the myth that nonprofits are not allowed to lobby, and to make a case that ALL nonprofits should absolutely be lobbying to the limits of the law. Things we discuss: Fewer than 3% of all nonprofits engage in any lobbying. The vast majority of E.D.s erroneously think they are not allowed to do any lobbying. How to get nonprofits to engage. Reasons to get into lobbying now. We welcome support of the Nonprofit SnapCast via Patreon. We welcome your questions and feedback via The Nonprofit Snapshot website.

As CEO of STOP Foodborne Illness (STOP) since May 2019, Mitzi Baum, M.Sc. is focused on expanding STOP's impact by concentrating on three strategic areas: families and individuals impacted by foodborne disease, company culture and practice, and food safety policy. By instituting a collaborative, consumer-centric operating model, STOP engages stakeholders across the food system to develop and advance solutions to food safety. Prior to her tenure at STOP, which will come to an end in late 2024, Mitzi cultivated a 23-year career at Feeding America, rising to the senior-level position of Managing Director of Food Safety. Mitzi holds a Master of Science degree in Food Safety and a certificate in Food Law from Michigan State University. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Bowling Green State University and has obtained certificates in Nonprofit Management from the University of Chicago, Quality Management from DePaul University, and Food Safety Management from Cornell University. Mitzi is the 2021 Joseph Leiter Lecturer of the Medical Library Association and National Library of Medicine, an adjunct faculty for Michigan State University's Online Food Safety Program, a certified seafood Hazards Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) instructor, and a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI). She also serves as the consumer representative on Council I for the Conference for Food Protection and is a member of the National Restaurant Association's Food Safety Advisory Council. In this episode of Food Safety Matters, we speak with Mitzi [2:57] about: The development and impacts of the Alliance to Stop Foodborne Illness, a program of STOP that joins industry with consumers STOP's advocacy for the modernization of USDA-FSIS's regulatory standards for Salmonella in poultry, for which FSIS recently released a proposed framework, and STOP's thoughts on the new framework STOP's work to include Cronobacter sakazakii on the CDC's List of Nationally Notifiable Diseases, and whether more work is required to prevent Cronobacter infections from powdered infant formula following the 2022 outbreak and supply shortage Efforts to position STOP as a more credible, reliable, and focused organization with greater visibility and improved fundraising outcomes What drew Mitzi to STOP, and her proudest achievements during her tenure as CEO. We Want to Hear from You!Please send us your questions and suggestions to podcast@food-safety.com

This month's episodes have been packed with strategies to help us plan our end-of-year giving campaigns. In this week's episode, Jess brings so much wisdom about discovering and keeping donors on your email list by sending emails that truly add value. We'll be diving into the power of email—something that often gets overlooked—and Jess shares some eye-opening insights on why it's becoming more important than ever. She's got data-backed predictions about the shift toward fewer but larger donors, some really practical tips on list-building and audience engagement, and a whole lot of resources for you to pull from. If you're looking to step up your donor engagement and end-of-year fundraising through email, Jess is your girl! 00:00 - Introduction More about our guest today   Jess Campbell is the CEO and Founder of Out in the Boons (www.outintheboons.me), a small shop helping nonprofits discover donors in their email list. She has been a nonprofit fundraiser for 18 years and has raised over $17M+ working from New York to California in organizations big and small. She is also the founder of The Raise More Together Summit which to date has educated more than 4,000+ nonprofit leaders and fundraisers.    Before starting Out in the Boons, Jess was the Director of Development for LIFT-LA, a national organization that empowers families to break the cycle of poverty.    Jess has an undergraduate degree from The University of Colorado-Boulder (go Buffs!) in Communication and a Masters degree in Nonprofit Management from The New School in NYC. She currently lives in Southern California with her husband, 8 year-old daughter and their rescue pup, Billy.    02:48 - Current Nonprofit Challenges and Advice The end of the year is always a uniquely challenging time for nonprofits, and with it being an election year, we need to step up our fundraising efforts. It's crucial to seize opportunities like Giving Tuesday and other year-end giving campaigns. Jess has an incredible success story about a client who learned the importance of starting outreach early, well before November and December roll around.   05:19 - Communication Strategies and Donor Engagement Jess and I are tackling a common concern among nonprofit leaders: the fear of overcommunicating with donors. How often should you be reaching out? What kind of communication is most effective? And what's the best way to deliver it? Many CEOs and founders struggle with these questions—I know I have! That's why I'm so glad we get to share our thoughts and explore solutions together. 21:28 - Predictions for End-of-Year Giving Season Catch Jess' predictions for the end-of-year giving season, her insights on what makes a successful year-end campaign, and why it's so important to establish meaningful touchpoints with donors before making a direct ask.   31:39 - Resources and Support for Nonprofits To help nonprofit leaders navigate the busy end-of-year season, Jess is offering valuable resources, including her fundraising template membership and customized consulting services. As a fellow leader, she understands the importance of rest and working smarter, not harder.   By utilizing available resources and tools, you can streamline your communication efforts and maximize your impact. Grab this chance via the links below!   34:10 - Conclusion This month has been incredible for learning and gaining access to fundraising experts. I'm so glad we finally had a series that focused deeply on nonprofits and navigating fundraising challenges. I hope you had the chance to listen to all four amazing women. If not, be sure to catch up—and have a pen and paper handy! There's so much valuable information to learn and put into action. If you have any questions or would like to follow up, feel free to connect with us through the links below.   Mentions: Out in the BoonsJess on LinkedInJess on InstagramFundraising Template Shop Membership.    Connect with me: https://jennynuccio.com/contact Follow along with my Weekly Wild: Sign Up! Find me on social media: Jenny Nuccio Work with me through one-on-one mentorship and strategic coaching sessions: Join me! Sign up to receive a copy of the podcast slides covered in this week's episode: https://jennynuccio.myflodesk.com/ry8jrddbfx  

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle, President of Stadia, discusses the delicate balance between faith and financial wisdom with COO Matt Murphy. They explore the challenges and strategies involved in managing church finances, highlighting the importance of having a plan, understanding the risks of poor stewardship, and the necessity of wise investing. They also emphasize the pitfalls of financial management in church settings, such as over-saving or reckless spending. The episode provides valuable insights for church leaders on navigating finances with faith and prudence. Key topics include the parable of talents and building on solid foundations as illustrated in Matthew 7.' [00:01:20] - Faith in Finances: Matt discusses how faith influences financial decisions in church planting. [00:03:14] - Financial Foolishness: Exploring what constitutes financial foolishness. [00:04:13] - Pitfalls of Financial Management: Discussion on the balance between faith and practical financial stewardship. [00:06:06] - Biblical Insights on Finances: Examples from the book of Matthew on managing resources. [00:08:27] - Leadership and Financial Oversight: The role of vision and strategic budgeting in church finances. [00:10:51] - Vision and Financial Challenges: How shifting visions can complicate financial planning. [00:15:28] - Reserve Funds and Budgeting: Strategies for maintaining financial health and planning for the future. [00:21:28] - Importance of Business Acumen in Boards: The balance of faith and business expertise in governance. [00:24:27] - Gratitude in Finance: The importance of thanking and acknowledging donors.

You'll want to tune in today because we're talking all things being seen, especially if you've ever felt like an outcast or like society just wasn't built with you in mind. You have so many different parts of your identity that intersect, sometimes you may have to prioritize one over the other to feel safe, but that doesn't mean that the other parts go away. And this is exactly what today's guest is an expert in navigating — in her own life and with clients — among many other things. I'm pleased to introduce you to fellow Nashvillian, Aimee Sadler. She has a Masters in Social Work, is currently a masters candidate at Lipscomb University specializing in conflict management. She currently works as the manager of Community and Collective Impact at the Center for Nonprofit Management. She provides nonprofit consulting in DEI, cultural competency, cultural humility, and cultural understanding. She's also a private practice clinician focusing on therapy for women of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She's also a mom, partner, and loves all things Disney. She's won a plethora of awards, including but not limited to being recognized as one of Nashville Business Journal's 40 Under 40, and serves as Vice President on the board of Nashville LAUNCH PAD, an organization offering safe and LGBTQIA+ affirming shelters and housing accommodations to unhoused young adults.In this episode, we're covering things like what it means to be seen, why it's important for people to feel seen, why people struggle with being seen, dealing with the fear that sometimes comes with the vulnerability of being seen, listening to your intuition, and confidently navigating the intersectionality you experience, even while breaking social norms safely. Amiee also get's personal and tells us about her own experience with intersectionality.***Visit the complete show notes at https://humanamplified.com/episodes/117***FREE Workshop:https://www.brandifleckcoaching.com/self-healing-the-root-workshop

In this episode of The PR Maven® Podcast, host Nancy Marshall explores the power of storytelling in PR and branding with Tangia Renee Al-awaji Estrada. Tangia, a PR and brand strategist and co-founder of BIPOC Podcast Creators, shares her journey from political science and community organizing to founding her own PR agency. The conversation covers the importance of personal branding, effective media relations, and the unique challenges of PR efforts within multicultural communities. Tangia emphasizes the need for genuine relationship-building and understanding the nuances of different communities. The episode also features insights on maintaining authentic connections and highlights the impact of the pandemic on Tangia's career trajectory. Additionally, the podcast episode includes a segment about Pitchcraft, a platform for improving media pitching. 00:00 Introduction to The PR Maven® Podcast 01:05 The Importance of Personal Branding 02:08 Meet Our Guest: Tangia Renee Al-awaji Estrada 03:57 Tangia's Journey into PR and Branding 06:38 Impact of the Pandemic on Tangia's Career 09:00 Building Relationships with Media Professionals 11:41 Challenges in PR with Multicultural Communities 14:54 Best Practices for Authentic Relationships 18:11 Pitchcraft: Enhancing Media Pitching Skills 20:27 Empowering Underrepresented Communities 25:00 The Power of Storytelling in Branding 29:47 Tangia's Recommended Resources and Contact Information 31:31 Conclusion and Farewell Related Episodes  Episode 140: Supporting Maine's newcomers and diversity in business, with Alyne Cistone, founder and CEO of Global Tides Consulting LLC Episode 125: Embracing humanity from building relationships to diversity and inclusion, with Fabiana Meléndez, senior publicist at Zilker Media How Marketing Can Help Overcome Challenges in Higher Education With Cheryl Broom – Episode 168 About Tangia  Tangia Renee Al-awaji Estrada is a dynamic PR and brand strategist, and international public speaker with a passion for storytelling and community building. As the Co-Founder of BIPOC Podcast Creators, Tangia is committed to elevating diverse voices and sharing stories that matter. Her work has been recognized by top publications such as USA Today, Bustle, NPR and more. She regularly shares both her public relations and podcasting expertise with national and global audiences. With a background in community organizing, media relations, public policy and campaigning, Tangia brings a unique perspective to her work as a PR professional. She understands the power of storytelling to shape perceptions, build brand awareness, and create meaningful connections with audiences. Her strategic insights and expertise in media relations have helped countless clients and community initiatives achieve their business goals and secure high-profile media coverage. Tangia is a natural leader and mentor; her passion for empowering others is evident in everything she does. She has a talent for building relationships and creating collaborative partnerships, and she is committed to creating opportunities for underrepresented communities in the media and PR industries. She holds a degree in political science from Metropolitan State University and a master's degree in Organizational Leadership and Nonprofit Management from Regis University. Tangia is also the creator of That's What She Did Podcast, a show that amplifies the voices of brilliant women. The podcast was named by USA Today as a top show to listen to for Women's History Month.

In this episode, I have Kel Haney, a former theater director turned fundraising expert, on the show. Kel shares her journey from theater to fundraising, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building over transactional encounters. She discusses the power of vulnerability and storytelling in connecting with donors and highlights the need for everyone in an organization to engage in fundraising. The conversation also explores the significance of understanding personal motivations, creating a positive donor experience, and fostering an engaged community — especially in organizations with experiential elements. In this episode:[04:27] Shifting from transactional fundraising to relationship-building[06:35] Coaching others to lead with vulnerability and storytelling[08:45] Understanding money mindset and finding personal connections in fundraising conversations[10:56] The trend of avoiding direct 1:1 asks and the importance of empowering organizations to have vocal, personal conversations[13:25] Training everyone to be ambassadors and fundraisers[16:06] The significance of membership and subscriber bases in organizations with an experiential element[25:07] Reflecting donor's thoughts and making the ask feel like an offeringRESOURCESTake the leap into successful fundraising with the Savvy Fundraiser Fundamentals Course. This course covers everything from crafting compelling campaigns to collaborating effectively with your team, ensuring you have all the tools you need to elevate your fundraising efforts.CONNECT WITH KELLinkedIn: Kel HaneyInstagram: @KelHaneyWebsite: kelhaney.comIn 2012, I started a nonprofit in a small village in Malawi, living alone, facing many challenges, I built a successful organization. This book is a tale of resilience, passion, and community strength. Discover the highs, lows, lessons learned, and unforgettable moments that shaped my journey. Whether you're in the nonprofit world, thinking of starting one, or just love a great story, pre-order HERE< As the fundraising engine of choice for over 80,000 organizations in 90+ countries, Donorbox's easy-to-use fundraising tools help you raise more money in more ways. Seamlessly embed a customizable donation form into your website that reduces donor drop-off with a 4x faster checkout, launch a crowdfunding or peer-to-peer campaign, sell event tickets, raise funds on the go with Donorbox Live™ Kiosk, and much more. Learn more at donorbox.orgCONNECT WITH HALEYHaley is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Certified Stress Management Coach, and Certified EmC train the trainer. She is the Founder of The Savvy Fundraiser, a nonprofit consulting and coaching business. She has worked in both small and large nonprofit teams in the human services, homelessness, and youth sectors; and she specializes in the EmC process, nonprofit leadership, board development, and fundraising. Haley is a passionate, impact-driven, experienced nonprofit professional whose mission is to empower, elevate and engage nonprofit leaders to build healthy, thriving organizations.Instagram: @thesavvyfundraiser LinkedIn: Haley Cooper, CFREWebsite: thesavvyfundraiser.com

In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle, president of Stadia Church Planting, chats with Steve Porter, chair of the Stadia board. They delve into the essential qualities and functions of a good church board member, highlighting the challenges church leaders face in financial management due to their lack of training in this area. Steve shares his extensive experience on various boards, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and transparency for nonprofit leaders. They also discuss the role of policy governance in maintaining an effective board by setting clear boundaries and responsibilities. [00:00:18] - Introduction of Steve Porter, background on his board experience. [00:01:03] - Steve joins the podcast, discusses his journey with Greg and involvement in church boards. [00:02:15] - Importance of financial education for pastors. [00:05:29] - Discussion on ensuring transparency and understanding financial controls. [00:06:44] - Shift to policy governance, its benefits and pitfalls. [00:12:00] - Characteristics of an effective board member: encouragement, wise counsel, accountability. [00:14:49] - Ideal composition of a church board and strategic member selection. [00:19:04] - The personal connection between board members and their support for the leader. [00:22:11] - The role of a board in supporting personal and spiritual goals of the leader. [00:24:52] - Wrapping up, the joys and challenges of serving on a nonprofit board. [00:26:37] - Conclusion and thanks to Steve Porter. Connect with Greg and Stadia at https://stadia.org

Today, we dive deep into the mission and endeavors of Operation Vet Now (OVN) with our special guest, Tony Aubrey. Tony, a retired Air Force mechanic and recruiter, shares his compelling journey from military service to founding OVN, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans. Tune in as we discuss the origins of OVN, its innovative outreach approach, and the transformative Ambassador Athlete Program that utilizes sports as therapy for veterans. Join us as we explore how OVN is making a significant difference by connecting veterans to essential resources and honoring the heroes we've lost. This episode promises heartfelt stories, keen insights, and a clear call to action for our veteran community. Visit their website: https://opvetnow.org/   Tony Aubrey Co-Founder & Program Director at Operation Vet NOW Inc. (OVN)  Tony's Story:  After graduating from High School in 1984, Tony enlisted in the United States Air Force as a mechanic and later crossed-trained to be analyst. His years of active duty included 12 tours (5 overseas and 7 state side), including a 9-month deployment to Operation Desert Shield/Storm where he earned the USAF Commendation Medal for achievements in direct support of the liberation of Kuwait. Since leaving the military Tony has worked in event and sports marketing, and non-profit leadership. In 2017 he and some past teammates created the organization Operation Vet NOW Inc. (OVN), a non-profit organization focused on improving the overall mental wellness of every veteran who served through outreach and honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Tony uses his experience and networks in all levels of sports as the platform for OVN's three focus projects. He enjoys golfing, riding dirt bikes, and most of all spending time with his three grandchildren.  Tony left active duty after 22 years of service and since completed his BA from American Military University and MS from Endicott College, in addition he's earned a Six Sigma Masters Certification and an Executive Certification in Non-Profit Management from Notre Dame's Mendoza School of Business. He also serves on the Endicott College's Sports Leadership Advisory Board.  Military Decorations 4 Meritorious Service Medals, 3 Air Force Commendation Medals, 1 Air Force Achievement Medal, 2 Air Force Outstanding Unit Medals 1 with Valor, Southwest Asia Service Metal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, and Air Force Good Conduct Medal. 

In November 2023, Cleveland's West Side Market named Rosemary Mudry it's first Executive Director of the Market's new nonprofit arm, the Cleveland Public Market Corporation.rnrnHome to more than 60 small, local business owners, and boasting 800,000 visitors annually--the West Side Market serves as a neighborhood anchor and economic hub. Yet, it continued to struggle to live up to its full potential. A 2023 master plan by the Bibb administration suggested - as many have over the decades - that the Market transition to a nonprofit management style to improve vendor and visitor experience. The switch would align with nationwide best practices for public markets. In April 2024, Mudry officially took the helm.rnrnPreviously, Mudry served as Executive Director of West Park Kamm's Neighborhood Development; was Director of Neighborhood Development at Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation; and started her community development career working for Ohio City Inc. during the heyday of the Market's Centennial Celebrations. In addition to her leadership in community development and urban planning, Mudry is a small business owner, serving as Midnight Owl Brewing Co co-owner with her husband Joel Warger.rnrnTo kick off our 2024 Outdoor Summer Series, join us as Ideastream Public Media's Mike McIntyre talks with Rosemary Mudry about her new role and vision as the first Executive Director of the Cleveland Public Market Corporation.

Matt Bair and Ryan Hedrick share their overdose experiences to help identify when someone may need critical help. Due to the rise of fentanyl, this discussion is more important than ever. Alcohol can also cause overdose, known as alcohol poisoning. Joining The Show:  Justin Phillips, MA Founder and Executive Director of Overdose Lifeline, Inc. Created the organization after her 20-year-old son died from heroin use. Holds Master's degrees in Clinical Addiction Counseling, Philanthropic Studies, and Non-Profit Management. Certified in the Grief Recovery Method®. Honored as a White House Champion of Change for Advocacy, Prevention, and Treatment. Timestamps and Discussions 3:46 - 5:49: Identifying different kinds of overdoses. 5:51 - 7:03: Matt talks about overdosing on oxycontin. 7:09 - 7:52: Ryan recalls a seizure brought on by meth. 15:30 - 16:02: Introduction to Justin Phillips. 16:08 - 16:48: Phillips discusses why she started Overdose Lifeline. 16:51 - 17:21: How to tell someone is overdosing. 17:54 - 18:50: When to call 911 if you suspect an overdose. Some states have Good Samaritan laws requiring you to call emergency services. 19:01 - 20:00: Phillips talks about carrying and administering Narcan. 21:11 - 22:00: Narcan is legal in Indiana, and organizations like Overdose Lifeline are making it accessible to anyone who needs it. 23:38 - 24:42: Phillips emphasizes the need for communication and reflects on what she would do differently if her son were alive and using Resources:  You can find us on X and Instagram: @sobriety_pod. Supporting Sobriety is also available on major podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple. Please like, subscribe, and rate our podcast! Guest: Substance Use Disorder Help and Prevention - Overdose Lifeline Al-Anon: Al-Anon.org AA Meetings: aa.intergroup.org/meetings NA Meetings: virtual-na.org Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (24/7) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ready to supercharge your nonprofit's donor stewardship game? In this episode, we're joined by the amazing Sabrina Walker Hernandez, a board management guru with over 25 years of nonprofit experience. Sabrina dishes out practical tips on how to engage your board in donor stewardship, from thank-you taskforces to creative cultivation strategies. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you retain donors and maximize your board's impact. What you'll learn: → Why donor stewardship is crucial for nonprofit boards → Practical strategies for involving board members in stewardship → How to create a culture of gratitude within your organization → Tips for developing a comprehensive stewardship plan → Ways to leverage board members' strengths in fundraising efforts Want to skip ahead? Here are key takeaways: [6:23] The fundraising process breakdown: Sabrina reveals that 60% of fundraising is relationship cultivation, 15% is stewardship, and only 5% is actually asking for money. This insight helps shift focus from the “ask” to building and maintaining donor relationships. [13:09] Leadership Mindset Shift: Instead of lamenting that “my board won't fundraise,” Sabrina encourages nonprofit leaders to ask, “How can I better lead and educate my board?” This perspective change empowers CEOs to take responsibility for board engagement and success. [24:46] Donor Care at All Levels: Sabrina shares a story about a wealthy donor who would test organizations with small initial donations. This emphasizes the importance of treating all donors with equal care and respect, regardless of gift size. [28:29] Implement a “five by five” plan: This practical strategy involves assigning each board member five donors to steward, with a goal of five meaningful touchpoints throughout the year. This structured approach helps ensure consistent donor engagement. [35:33] Leveraging Board Strengths: Sabrina stresses the importance of focusing on board members' individual strengths. A board member who excels at stewardship and cultivation can be incredibly valuable, even if they're not comfortable directly asking for money. Resources Visit Supporting World Hope for Sabrina's social media platforms, services, and to join her VIP resource library. https://supportingworldhope.com/ Listen to episode 172 where Sabrina and Sami discuss Utilizing Your Board in You Marketing Efforts. https://thefirstclick.net/172   Sabrina Walker Hernandez President/CEO, Supporting World Hope Coaching & Consulting, LLC Sabrina Walker Hernandez has over 25 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and leadership. She grew her operation revenue from $750,000 to $2.5M and completed a $12M capital campaign. She is certified in Nonprofit Management by Harvard Business School and a bestselling author. Learn more at https://supportingworldhope.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinawalkerhernandez/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/supportingworldhope Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_nonprofitexpert YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/supportingworldhope   Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

Katie checks in with the CEO of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, founder of Giving Tuesday, former Executive Director of the 92nd Street Y, and author of New Power, Henry Timms.

Alicia Highland and I talk about ways to make environments more inclusive and also touch on what that can look like in nature based settings. Alicia completed her Master's in Curriculum and Instruction, with specializations in Environmental Education and Nonprofit Management, and a Master's in Elementary Education. Now that she is taking a break from the classroom to raise her two littles, Alicia is focusing her energies into creating a nature-based education community online and in her hometown. Key Takeaways:  Equity and Inclusion: Alicia and Kristen talk about how to create environments where all children feel safe and have equal access to opportunities by addressing systemic barriers and ensuring inclusion. Challenges: They talk about how early childhood education faces issues like low wages, lack of funding, and insufficient support, which hinder creating equitable educational spaces. Nature-Based Education: Kristen and Alicia cover ways to also help make nature-based education accessible to all children. Actionable Steps: They talk about how educators should educate themselves, use toolkits, have courageous conversations, and be open to feedback to create inclusive learning environments. Find Kristen here: @kristen.rb.peterson or at KristenRBPeterson.com Find Alicia here: @tinygreenlearning or at www.tiny-green-learning.com Find the implicit bias test: Project Implicit Find the NAEYC toolkit here: Guide

Summary Amy Brand, CEO of Philanthropy Tank, discusses the organization's mission to empower the next generation of leaders in the nonprofit sector. Philanthropy Tank works with high school students to develop and launch their own social impact programs. The students go through a rigorous application process and receive funding and mentorship to bring their ideas to life. The program focuses on teaching leadership skills, collaboration, and critical thinking. Philanthropy Tank has seen success with many of its programs becoming formal 501(c)(3) organizations. The organization is also expanding to new cities, with plans to launch in Chicago. Takeaways Philanthropy Tank empowers high school students to develop and launch their own social impact programs. The program focuses on teaching leadership skills, collaboration, and critical thinking. Many of the programs started through Philanthropy Tank have become formal 501(c)(3) organizations. The organization is expanding to new cities, with plans to launch in Chicago. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to IMPACTability and Philanthropy Tank 06:19 In Pursuit of Greatness: Guiding the Next Generation of Leaders 13:45 Empowering Change Makers: The Mission of Philanthropy Tank 26:42 Supporting the Leaders of Our Next Generation Guest Bio Amy Brand has over 25 years of nonprofit experience in the South Florida community. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Florida and her Masters in Nonprofit Management from Florida Atlantic University. Amy's first professional nonprofit position was as the Area Development Director of the Broward County American Cancer Society. In 2001, she moved to Bethesda Hospital Foundation and worked with the organization for almost 13 years serving in various capacities including Special Events Director, Corporate Partners Director and Major Gifts Director. From there, Amy served as the Chief Development Officer for Habitat for Humanity of Palm Beach County where through strategic partnerships and donor relations, she increased revenue over 500%. Amy now serves as the CEO of Philanthropy Tank, an organization dedicated to working with teens to develop student-driven, sustainable programs that create solutions and address issues facing their communities. She oversees operations in Palm Beach County and Baltimore, as well as future expansion efforts. Amy is the past president of the Executive Women of the Palm Beaches Foundation, past president of the Association for Women in Communications (AWC), Atlantic Florida Chapter serving Broward, Dade, and Palm Beach counties, as well as a past president of the Palm Beach County chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP.) She is a graduate of Leadership Palm Beach County and a sustaining member of the Junior League of Boca Raton. She received her designation as a Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE) in September 2013 and was awarded Outstanding Fundraising Professional in 2020 by AFP Palm Beach County. She currently serves as a co-chair of the Leadership Palm Beach County Grow program, a leadership program for high school juniors from area schools. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Vanessa Zoltan is the host of The Real Question. She has a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, an MS in Nonprofit Management from the University of Pennsylvania, and a MDiv from Harvard Divinity School. She is the CEO and Founder of Not Sorry Productions, which produces the podcasts Harry Potter and the Sacred Text, Twilight in Quarantine, and Hot & Bothered. She also runs pilgrimages and walking tours exploring sacred reading and writing.  Call Zak on the advice show hotline @ 844-935-BEST---Wanna help Zak continue making this show? Become a Best Advice Show Patron @ https://www.patreon.com/bestadviceshow---Share this episode on IG @BestAdviceShow