Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

Tim Coetzee In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter welcomes Tim Coetzee, CEO of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, to discuss the inspiring journey of the organization from a simple newspaper ad in 1945 to a nationwide movement transforming lives today. Tim shares the riveting origin story of the MS Society, which began with Sylvia Lawry’s determined quest to help her brother and has since grown into a global leader in MS research and advocacy. Tim also delves into the advancements in MS treatment and research, the Society’s critical partnerships, and his own leadership journey shaped by impactful mentorship. His perspective on leading with curiosity over certainty offers a refreshing and actionable insight for nonprofit leaders everywhere. Key Topics Include: The compelling origin story of the MS Society and founder Sylvia Lawry’s relentless advocacy Current advancements in MS treatments and promising new research directions How the MS Society partners with caregivers, researchers, and other nonprofits for maximum impact The importance of humility and collaboration in nonprofit leadership Tim’s mentorship experience with former CEO Joyce Nelson and its influence on his leadership style Strategies for balancing visionary leadership with coaching and accountability Embracing a “learn-it-all” mindset over being a “know-it-all” in leadership roles Mentioned in This Episode: National MS Society: https://www.nationalmssociety.org Tim Coetzee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timcoetzee/ Adam Grant’s book Hidden Potential: https://www.adamgrant.net/book/hidden-potential/ Satya Nadella’s leadership approach: https://news.microsoft.com/exec/satya-nadella/ This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business: Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Vanessa Lockshin In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Dr. Rob Harter welcomes storytelling expert Vanessa Chase Lockshin, founder of The Storytelling Non-Profit and author of The Storytelling Non-Profit. Vanessa shares her extensive experience helping organizations craft emotionally resonant, authentic stories that drive fundraising success and donor engagement. Whether you’re a seasoned nonprofit professional or just starting out, this conversation is packed with practical tips on how to build your organization’s narrative strategy and share stories in a way that deeply connects with your audience. Vanessa walks through the core elements of powerful storytelling, how to maintain authenticity, create meaningful donor calls-to-action, and why story planning is crucial to long-term communications success. The episode also covers balancing trauma-informed storytelling with impact, the role of conflict in narratives, and how to adapt stories for various platforms from email to Instagram reels. Key Topics Include: What differentiates a true story from a testimonial or summary How to hook your audience with emotional and engaging storytelling elements Techniques for building authentic, trauma-informed stories that maintain dignity Crafting calls-to-action that are clear, tangible, and drive donations Planning an annual storytelling strategy aligned with your organization’s goals When and how to reuse stories effectively across platforms and over time Leveraging short-form video and AI tools for engaging social media storytelling Mentioned in This Episode: Vanessa Chase Lockshin’s website: The Storytelling Non-Profit Vanessa’s book: The Storytelling Non-Profit on Amazon AI video tool: Arbor – for creating nonprofit-focused short-form videos This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon Music. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Dan Tocchini In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Dan Tocchini, a seasoned nonprofit leader, coach, and founder who describes leadership as a “sacred experience.” With over 25 years of experience leading and coaching, Dan offers a fresh, principle-based approach to transforming teams, navigating conflict, and creating cultures of courageous leadership. Dan also shares powerful personal stories of leadership failure, resilience, and the importance of authenticity in professional growth. Listeners will gain insights into how to hold difficult conversations, build trust through creative conflict resolution, and align leadership with deeper purpose and service. Dan’s unique framework for tackling team dynamics and his emphasis on transparency offer valuable strategies for nonprofit leaders facing internal and external challenges. Key Topics Include: Why leadership is a “sacred experience” and how that shapes leadership impact How to transform teams without relying on “pixie dust” motivational tactics A framework for navigating difficult conversations with courage and clarity The power of identifying complaints as signals of unresolved issues Strategies for resolving creative conflict and building trust within teams The importance of aligning intuition with data in decision-making How nonprofit leaders can shift toxic cultures through transparency and dialogue Mentioned in This Episode: Take New Ground: TakeNewGround.com Free eBook “The Change Imperative” by Dan Tocchini: Download here Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: Dan Tocchini LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business. Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Anthony Kennedy Shriver In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter is joined by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, founder, chairman, and CEO of Best Buddies International. Anthony shares the inspiring origin story of Best Buddies, which began as a college initiative and has grown into a global nonprofit that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With an emphasis on job creation, inclusive housing, and meaningful friendships, Anthony discusses how his organization is transforming lives around the world—while also building sustainable, long-term partnerships with major corporations. Anthony also talks about the enduring legacy of public service within his family, how Best Buddies has successfully collaborated with companies like Jersey Mike’s, Coca-Cola, and TJX, and how the organization has leveraged the support of ambassadors like Tom Brady to raise awareness and drive impact. From launching new initiatives like Eunice’s Buddies and Bumble Buddies to opening inclusive living centers, Anthony gives a candid look at what it takes to run a successful global nonprofit for over 35 years. Key Topics Include: The legacy of service in the Kennedy-Shriver family and its impact on Anthony’s mission The evolution of Best Buddies from a college project to an international nonprofit Creating jobs for individuals with IDD and forming long-term corporate partnerships Measuring economic impact by transitioning individuals from government support to tax-paying citizens The power of celebrity ambassadors and how to create mutually beneficial relationships Future growth plans, including expansion to 100 countries and launching new programs like Bumble Buddies The importance of running a nonprofit like a business for long-term sustainability Mentioned in This Episode: Best Buddies International: https://www.bestbuddies.org This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox: Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business. https://donorbox.org/?ref=nmu4ndh Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nonprofit-leadership-podcast/id1102505312), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/72asKZ21pS2RG8Cn0puXWl), or Amazon (https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4dabd6e2-75da-425b-a51f-43a318b29ce2/nonprofit-leadership-podcast). Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Bob Bush, co-founder of Mutombo Coffee In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter welcomes Bob Bush, co-founder of Mutombo Coffee. Bob shares the inspiring story behind the social enterprise he helped build with the late NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo. Although Mutombo Coffee is a for-profit company, Bob explains how its mission-driven approach offers powerful lessons for nonprofit leaders. Throughout the conversation, Bob dives into topics like resilience, values-driven leadership, and sustainable growth—all crucial themes for anyone looking to make a positive impact, whether in the nonprofit or for-profit world. Bob offers insight into how Mutombo Coffee navigated the immense challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and Dikembe’s passing, highlighting strategies nonprofit leaders can apply to build resilience and align mission with operations. His passion for social impact and building long-term strategies shines through, making this episode a must-listen for nonprofit and social enterprise leaders alike. Key Topics Include: How long-term thinking can drive sustainable impact for nonprofits and social enterprises The critical difference between being value-driven vs. values-driven Innovative strategies Mutombo Coffee used to survive the pandemic and build resilience Why investing in intellectual, relational, and emotional capital is often more important than financial capital How to manage risk and uncertainty with strategic preparation and thoughtful leadership Tools nonprofit leaders can use to align their values, leadership style, and business models Practical tips for building resilient nonprofit organizations and social enterprises Mentioned in This Episode: Mutombo Coffee Use code LEADERSHIP25 for 25% off your Mutombo Coffee order! This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox — Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Debbie Levin In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter talks with Debbie Levin, CEO of the Environmental Media Association (EMA). Debbie shares her incredible journey of leading EMA for over 25 years, rebuilding the organization from the ground up, and strategically using the influence of Hollywood to promote sustainability and environmental awareness. From initiating the Prius phenomenon to revolutionizing behind-the-scenes practices in the entertainment industry, Debbie discusses how EMA’s creative, solution-based approach has inspired change on a cultural and corporate level. Tune in to hear how Debbie’s innovative strategies, deep industry connections, and authentic leadership style have kept EMA at the forefront of environmental advocacy — and what lessons nonprofit leaders can take away to drive change in their own communities. Key Topics Include: How Debbie transformed EMA by bridging Hollywood and sustainability The strategy behind turning the Prius into a status symbol for celebrities How EMA created the “Emma Green Seal” to promote eco-friendly film and TV production Why solution-based, nonjudgmental messaging wins supporters across political lines The role of celebrity influence in shaping public perception on environmental issues How EMA has built long-lasting partnerships with studios, agencies, and corporations Leadership principles for staying innovative, relevant, and impactful over decades Mentioned in This Episode: Environmental Media Association website: green4ema.org Follow EMA on social media: @Green4EMA This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox, helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

David Rhode In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with David Rhode, author of Passion Isn’t Enough. Together, they dive into the realities of nonprofit leadership and why passion alone can’t sustain an organization. David shares insights from his book on how strategic planning, strong branding, effective fundraising, and financial management are essential for building a thriving nonprofit. If you’re passionate about your mission but looking for practical ways to make a bigger impact, this episode is packed with advice you can implement today. David also explores how nonprofit leaders can strengthen partnerships, avoid mission drift, and build evidence-based programs. His real-world experience and actionable strategies provide an invaluable guide for anyone who wants to lead a sustainable and impactful nonprofit organization. Key Topics Include: Why strategic planning requires both discipline and inclusion How nonprofit branding starts with your people, not just your logo The importance of focusing on individual giving for fundraising success How to create valuable, sustainable partnerships that aren’t just transactional Why financial controls and cash flow management are critical for stability How to stay true to your mission and avoid programmatic mission drift The role of measurement and evaluation in proving your nonprofit’s impact Mentioned in This Episode: David Rhode on LinkedIn Passion Isn’t Enough on Amazon This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business. Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at: nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

David Robbins In this episode Rob sits down with David Robbins, President of Cru, a global nonprofit with staff in over 190 countries. David shares his leadership journey and dives into the unique challenges and opportunities of leading a multigenerational organization. With team members spanning five generations, David offers valuable strategies for fostering unity, avoiding mission drift, and empowering younger leaders in a rapidly changing world. From his time in Italy and New York to leading major nonprofit divisions, David reflects on the personal and professional experiences that have shaped his leadership philosophy. He emphasizes emotional health, vulnerability, and intentional development of younger leaders as critical components to successful nonprofit leadership. Key Topics Include: Strategies for leading an organization with five generations on staff Avoiding mission drift during leadership transitions The importance of emotional and spiritual health in leadership Building trust with a global team during a leadership change Empowering younger generations through stretch challenges Navigating generational gaps with compassion and shared understanding Practical rhythms and habits to prevent leadership burnout Mentioned in This Episode: Cru: https://www.cru.org Book: Courage and Calling by Gordon T. Smith This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Yoon Choi In this episode, Rob Harter sits down with Yoon Choi, CEO of CollegeSpring, a nonprofit organization committed to providing equitable access to college readiness resources for students impacted by poverty. With over two decades of nonprofit leadership experience, Yoon shares how CollegeSpring is revolutionizing test preparation and college readiness by focusing on foundational skills, resilience, and goal setting. Yoon also offers a candid look at the evolving role of standardized testing in higher education, the myths surrounding “test-optional” admissions, and the importance of collaboration and partnerships in sustaining nonprofit impact. Her insights are a masterclass for nonprofit leaders navigating the post-COVID landscape, especially those seeking scalable and sustainable solutions. Key Topics Include: Why standardized tests still matter in college and career readiness How CollegeSpring builds student confidence and long-term success Merging mission with strategy: Yoon’s take on nonprofit partnerships and M&A The challenge of nonprofit scaling and how to overcome financial and operational barriers Embedding programs into school systems for lasting impact The evolving debate over the value of college degrees Advice for young nonprofit professionals eager to grow as leaders Mentioned in This Episode: CollegeSpring: https://collegespring.org Connect with Yoon Choi on LinkedIn: Yoon Choi LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Leah Kral Innovation and nonprofits don’t always seem like a natural fit—but they should be. In this episode, Rob Harter talks with Leah Kral, author of Innovation for Social Change, about how nonprofit leaders can infuse creativity and innovation into their organizations. Leah shares her insights on overcoming common barriers to innovation, fostering a culture of creativity, and building sustainable systems that support new ideas. Key topics include: -Why innovation is often overlooked in the nonprofit sector -How Leah’s experiences in the Peace Corps shaped her passion for nonprofit strategy -Practical ways nonprofits can embed innovation into their organizational DNA -The six principles of social change innovation -The importance of empowering frontline staff to bring forward new ideas -Lessons nonprofits can learn from organizations like Pixar and Mayo Clinic -How to embrace experimentation and learn from failure Leah also shares inspiring examples of nonprofits that are leading the way in innovation and offers actionable advice for nonprofit leaders looking to step up their creativity. Mentioned in This Episode: Leah Kral’s Website – Learn more about Leah and download her book club discussion guide Innovation for Social Change – Leah Kral’s book on nonprofit innovation World Reader – Using digital books to promote literacy worldwide This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. Links to Resources: *Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com *Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel *Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com *Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!