Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

Seb Boyer In this kickoff to a special four-week fundraising series, host Rob Harter welcomes Seb Boyer, President of Zeffy, a 100% free fundraising platform built for nonprofits. Seb, a former tech entrepreneur and AI startup founder, shares his insights into why Zeffy was created, how it sustains a completely free model, and what the latest fundraising data reveals about giving trends across the nonprofit sector. Rob and Seb dive into Zeffy’s recent benchmark reports, including findings on seasonal giving patterns and recurring donor behaviors. Seb explains why fall is the prime giving season, how different sectors experience unique donation trends, and why retaining recurring donors is both a challenge and a major opportunity. This data-driven episode equips nonprofit leaders with actionable strategies to elevate their year-end campaigns and rethink donor engagement through the lens of smart data. Key Topics Include: How Zeffy operates as a truly free platform with no fees for nonprofits Insights from Zeffy’s benchmark report on seasonal giving trends Why fall is the most active fundraising season—and how to prepare now Differences in donor patterns across nonprofit sectors Surprising data on recurring donor retention and drop-off rates How nonprofits can use data to guide smarter fundraising decisions The importance of using simple, integrated tech tools for donor engagement Mentioned in This Episode And More Resources: Zeffy Benchmark Study Seasonal Giving Trends Data Contact Seb Boyer: sebastien@zeffy.com This Four-Week Series is Sponsored By: Zeffy – The 100% free fundraising platform for nonprofits: https://zeffy.com Check out more information here to sign up Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website 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!

Brittan Stockert In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter is joined by Brittan Stockert, a seasoned fundraising coach at DonorBox with over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and social impact sector. As nonprofit leaders brace for the critical year-end giving season, Brittan provides an encouraging, realistic, and highly practical guide to making the most of it—without adding to your burnout. From revitalizing donation forms to simplifying your follow-up communications, Brittan shares smart, actionable strategies that can significantly boost donor engagement and retention. With a strong emphasis on simplicity, authenticity, and relationship-building, this episode is filled with ideas that will help you elevate your year-end giving campaign—whether you’re a one-person shop or part of a larger team. Key Topics Include: Why now is the perfect time to start planning your year-end giving campaign How donation forms can be powerful relationship builders—and how to optimize yours Three easy tweaks to turn one-time donors into long-term supporters Simple, low-lift follow-up strategies that build donor trust and engagement Why you might want to skip Giving Tuesday this year—and what to do instead How to authentically engage top donors in your year-end campaign Using clear data and donor feedback to pivot your strategy effectively Mentioned in This Episode: DonorBox DonorBox Podcast Resources: https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/nonprofit-podcasts 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!

Alex Amouyel In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Alex Amouyel, President and CEO of the Newman’s Own Foundation, to explore how nonprofits can more effectively approach foundations for funding. With billions in grant requests competing for limited dollars, Alex shares candid insights into what makes a funding request compelling—and how nonprofits can align their proposals with a foundation’s mission. Alex also discusses the unique “100% for Purpose” business model behind Newman’s Own, which donates 100% of profits to support children facing adversity. She reflects on her own leadership journey, the shifting philanthropic landscape, and how nonprofits can navigate funding challenges in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re an executive director, development professional, or board member, this conversation offers practical strategies for building stronger relationships with funders. Key Topics Include: The origin and mission of the Newman’s Own Foundation and its 100% profits-to-charity model How the “100% for Purpose Club” inspires other companies to commit all profits to social good Real-world examples of impact in children’s camps and food justice initiatives Essential leadership traits for navigating change in the nonprofit sector The importance of aligning grant requests with a foundation’s specific mission and needs Current trends in philanthropy, including collaborative funding and youth-led decision-making Practical advice for approaching and building relationships with foundations Mentioned in This Episode: Newman’s Own Foundation 100% for Purpose Club SeriousFun Children’s Network FoodCorps Indigenous Tomorrows Fund Mosaic Film Experience 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!

Adam Boddison In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Adam Boddison, CEO of the Association for Project Management and Managing Director at Grant Genie, to explore how nonprofit leaders can effectively harness artificial intelligence for strategic impact. Rather than focusing solely on how AI is transforming the nonprofit sector, this conversation delves deeper into leadership—asking how leaders can use AI responsibly and intentionally for good. Adam shares practical insights from his extensive experience in both education and the charitable sector, offering a balanced view of the risks and opportunities posed by AI. From debunking myths around job displacement and bias to advocating for a test-and-learn culture and data-driven decision-making, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for leaders navigating digital transformation. Whether you’re AI-curious or leading a tech-forward nonprofit, this conversation will offer you valuable direction on using technology to enhance your mission. Key Topics Include: How AI is currently being used by nonprofit leaders for fundraising, stakeholder engagement, and risk management Common misconceptions about AI and how to address fear and resistance among staff and stakeholders Why digital fluency and emotional intelligence are key leadership traits in an AI-driven world Practical ways to adopt AI through agile and test-and-learn strategies The leadership paradoxes and burnout challenges nonprofit leaders face in today’s fast-changing world Environmental sustainability concerns linked to AI and how to factor them into decision-making The role of Gen Z and Gen Alpha in shaping the future of nonprofit work Mentioned in This Episode: Adam Boddison on LinkedIn: Adam Boddison Grant Genie: www.grant-genie.ai Association for Project Management: www.apm.org.uk 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 Music. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter welcomes Alexx Goeller, CEO of Waste Less Solutions, a Utah-based nonprofit dedicated to combating food insecurity and reducing food waste. With a deep-rooted passion for social impact and a strong background in leadership, Alexx shares how she has developed effective systems and patterns to scale impact, stay focused on core objectives, and navigate the unique challenges of nonprofit leadership. Alexx discusses her transition into her new role, the importance of saying “no” to avoid mission creep, and how she builds structure and accountability into her leadership style. From her Peace Corps experience to current strategies for deepening community partnerships and advocating for more flexible funding, Alexx offers valuable lessons for leaders in any nonprofit space. Key Topics Include: The power of patterns and routines over passion in nonprofit leadership How to stay mission-focused and say “no” to initiatives that don’t align Building systems of accountability that tie everyday tasks to strategic goals The importance of delegating, vulnerability, and utilizing board strengths Realities and emotional challenges of nonprofit fundraising Building collaborative, mutually beneficial partnerships with food donors Advice for those entering the nonprofit sector and embracing broad passions Mentioned in This Episode: Waste Less Solutions: https://wastelesssolutions.org Follow Waste Less Solutions on Instagram: @waste_less_solutions 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 Music. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Kelly Kienzle In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Dr. Rob Harter welcomes executive and leadership coach Kelly Kienzle to explore the mounting uncertainty facing nonprofit leaders and how it’s affecting their confidence and decision-making. Kelly recently conducted in-depth interviews with over 40 leaders across the nonprofit, public, and private sectors, revealing troubling trends in burnout, reactivity, and a widespread crisis of confidence. Kelly discusses how shifting funding landscapes, political change, and societal shifts have left many nonprofit leaders unsure about their organization’s direction and mission. She shares her top three leadership challenges identified in the research and offers practical, actionable tools to help nonprofit executives regain clarity and lead with renewed confidence. This episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit leader feeling the weight of today’s volatile environment. Key Topics Include: The top three leadership challenges facing nonprofit leaders today Why traditional leadership approaches may no longer be effective The link between uncertainty, burnout, and crisis of confidence The concept of “chaos values” and how they guide leaders through ambiguity Tools for gaining perspective and clarity, including the “balcony view” The “magic delegation question” to reduce burnout and empower teams Practical strategies leaders can implement immediately Mentioned in This Episode: Kelly Kienzle’s website: OpenCircleCoaching.com Email Kelly: kelly@opencirclecoaching.com Chaos Values Assessment: TrueValues 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 Music. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Bob Searle In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter dives into a transformative discussion with Bob Searle of The Bridgespan Group. Bob shares compelling insights from Bridgespan’s “Leading for Impact” program, which involved nearly 300 nonprofit executive leaders. Together, they explore why team development is just as critical—if not more so—than individual leadership growth in today’s nonprofit sector. Bob outlines the unique advantages of cultivating an executive team that works in unison, backed by Bridgespan’s extensive data and practical tools. He also unpacks common pitfalls nonprofit leaders face, like miscommunication and lack of strategic clarity, and offers actionable strategies to overcome them. This episode is packed with lessons for anyone in nonprofit leadership aiming to boost organizational effectiveness through better team dynamics. Key Topics Include: The distinct benefits of team-based leadership development over individual development Data-backed insights from Bridgespan’s “Leading for Impact” program involving 299 nonprofit leaders Why strategic clarity and team alignment are foundational to nonprofit success The dangers of poor communication within executive teams—and simple steps to fix it How scenario planning can safeguard your nonprofit against future uncertainties Essential leadership traits for executive directors to foster high-performing teams Techniques for continuously building leadership capacity aligned with organizational goals Mentioned in This Episode: The Bridgespan Group Article about the results from their survey 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 Music. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

William Vanderbloemen Rob interviews William Vanderbloemen who shares his experience about starting a cause-based search firm. His firm emphasizes the need for nonprofits to prioritize soft skills when recruiting new staff. He also highlights the significance of clearly articulating the organization’s mission and values to attract the right talent. Additionally, Vanderbloemen emphasizes the role of a healthy organizational culture in recruitment and retention, and suggests using tools like theculturetool.com to assess and improve culture. In this conversation, Rob and William discuss the importance of organizational culture and employee satisfaction in the nonprofit sector. They explore the eight cultural values that shape behavior within an organization and how to assess and improve culture. They also discuss the impact of culture on employee retention and the need for organizations to adapt to the changing expectations of millennials and Gen Z. The conversation highlights the value of feedback and collaboration in creating a positive culture, as well as the importance of balancing professional development with organizational efficiency.  Takeaways:  Recruiting the right people at the right time is crucial for staff retention in nonprofits. Soft skills, or human-to-human skills, are essential for success in the nonprofit sector. Nonprofits should clearly articulate their mission and values to attract the right talent. A healthy organizational culture is key to recruitment and retention in nonprofits. Assessing and improving organizational culture is crucial for nonprofit organizations to create a healthy and effective work environment. Understanding the cultural values that shape behavior within an organization can help identify areas for improvement. Employee satisfaction and well-being are key factors in retaining staff, especially in a generation that values career mobility. Involving staff in the decision-making process and addressing their feedback can lead to a more engaged and committed workforce. Balancing professional development with organizational efficiency requires identifying the right timing and opportunities for growth.  Quotes: “Businesses may or may not have a value that drives them. Why do they have a better solution for staffing than the people who are living for a cause?” “Soft skills, H2H skills, are the ball game in nonprofit.” “The ones that succeed are the ones that say, ‘Here’s the one thing we do that very few people do.’” “We’re all the same age or skin color or gender, but we are all the same in our behavior around our eight cultural values.” “What is the biggest rock that we’re getting right of these eight areas? What are we just really doing well?” “If you focus so much on your culture that you could get six or seven years instead of four or five, because the cost to replace a staff person, it takes time, it takes energy, you lose momentum, it takes money.” #FromTheArchives Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:01 Recruitment and Retention in the Nonprofit Sector 06:16 The Importance of Soft Skills in Nonprofits 11:56 Articulating Mission and Values to Attract Talent 15:22 The Role of Organizational Culture in Recruitment and Retention 17:33 Assessing and Improving Culture 19:36 The Impact of Culture on Employee Retention 22:40 Addressing Employee Satisfaction 27:12 Adapting to the Expectations of Millennials and Gen Z 29:45 Creating a Feedback-Driven Culture 31:45 Balancing Workload and Professional Development

Cindy Wagman In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter dives into the evolving staffing models within the nonprofit sector, spotlighting the rise of fractional executives. Our guest, Cindy Wagman, a seasoned fundraiser and author of the bestselling book Raise It, joins Rob to unpack what it means to hire a fractional leader and why more nonprofits are exploring this innovative approach. Cindy is also the host of two podcasts, Confessions with Jess and Cindy and Fracture, a private podcast for nonprofit fractional executives. Cindy shares her journey from traditional consulting to pioneering the fractional executive model for nonprofits, illustrating how this model offers both strategic insight and hands-on implementation. Designed especially for small to mid-sized nonprofits, fractional executives offer expert-level leadership without the cost of a full-time hire. Whether you’re seeking support in fundraising, HR, marketing, or operations, Cindy breaks down the benefits, key indicators of readiness, and steps for integrating a fractional executive into your team. Key Topics Include: What a fractional executive is and how it differs from consultants and full-time staff Ideal nonprofit profiles that benefit most from fractional leadership Common roles filled by fractional executives, including fundraising, HR, and operations How to integrate a fractional leader into your nonprofit’s team and culture Key considerations for those interested in becoming a nonprofit fractional executive Emerging trends and increasing demand for fractional leadership in the nonprofit sector Mentioned in This Episode: Cindy Wagman’s Website & Directory: Nonprofit Fractionals Cindy’s Private Podcast for Fractional Execs: Fracture Cindy Wagman on LinkedIn: Connect with Cindy Book: Raise It by Cindy Wagman 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!

Ben Sand In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter sits down with Ben Sand, CEO of The Contingent, a nonprofit that’s revolutionizing the foster care system through innovative applications of data and technology. With a heart for foster children and firsthand experience as a foster parent, Ben shares how his organization is tackling the critical shortage of foster homes across the U.S. by leveraging targeted outreach and AI-driven solutions. The Contingent’s signature initiative, Every Child, began in Oregon and has expanded nationally, offering a powerful model of how community engagement and smart tech can solve complex social challenges. Ben dives deep into how The Contingent uses research, data analysis, and digital marketing to identify and mobilize prospective foster families. Their work in states like Oregon, Arkansas, and Tennessee showcases the importance of culturally relevant messaging and region-specific strategies. If you’re a nonprofit leader wondering how to integrate tech into your mission-driven work, this episode is packed with insights and actionable strategies. Key Topics Include: The nationwide foster care crisis and the urgent need for targeted foster family recruitment The origin and evolution of the Every Child Initiative How data, AI, and digital marketing are used to find and engage potential foster parents The importance of cultural context when expanding nonprofit programs nationally Strategies for scaling nonprofit tech solutions and preparing for the AI revolution Key leadership principles including adaptive leadership and using the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) Advice for nonprofit leaders on how to communicate ROI and innovate at scale Mentioned in This Episode: The Contingent Leadership on the Line Book This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – The best donation forms and fundraising platform for nonprofits. 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!