Intro

Today's episode launches our 12-part series 12 Shifts in 2026 for Social Impact. Over the next twelve episodes we're unpacking mindset + strategy shifts shaping the future of fundraising, leadership, and doing good in 2026. Explore the series at weareforgood.com/12shifts.

Shift 1 / Metrics with Meaning: Make Better Decisions with Less Noise

Feeling buried under dashboards and drowning in data? You’re not alone, and there is a better way.

In this episode, Jon and Becky welcome back impact measurement expert Ori Carmel for a refreshingly honest conversation about shifting from “more data” to better decisions. Together, they unpack how nonprofits can move past performative reporting, reconnect with what truly matters, and focus on the metrics that actually drive mission-forward impact.

Along the way, Ori shares candid stories, practical frameworks, and even a little Pearl Jam,  reminding us that impact work is as human as it is analytical. From uncovering your organization’s unique strengths to making data feel less overwhelming (and more empowering), this episode is full of clarity, wisdom, and a few good laughs.

If you’re craving less noise and more meaning in how you measure success, this one’s for you.

Episode Highlights: 

• Data Reckoning in Nonprofits (02:00)
• The Challenge of Impact Reporting (04:43)
• Asking Better Questions (08:54)
• Building Metrics with Meaning (18:36)
• What to Stop Doing in Data Management (23:39)
• The Importance of Stakeholder Mapping (30:28)

Episode Shownotes: www.weareforgood.com/episode/671

Explore the full series at www.weareforgood.com/12shifts

Join us at the We Are For Good Summit on February 12!

If you’re looking to build capacity, clarity, and momentum in the new year, we hope you’ll join us at our first-ever We Are For Good Summit, Powered by Givebutter on February 12. Expect workshops, roundtable conversations, and a playbook to get you activated this year. Register for free today!

Thank you to our partners 🩵

Big gratitude to Givebutter, RKD Group, Whiteboard, and Sowen for their partnership in growing the Impact Uprising. If you’re searching for a new CRM, tech tool, brand partner, direct mail partner, or impact strategist— we’d love for you to start with our trusted recs. We’ve vetted them so you don’t have to. Head to weareforgood.com/recs to learn more.

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