Confessions with Jess and Cindy

Get an inside look at the behind-the-scenes financials, marketing challenges, and partnership opportunities around hosting retreats and events in your business.Both Kamilah and Jess lost money (and not just a little) hosting their first in-person events. Yet, they continue to explore this business model for its ability to facilitate powerful in-person connections in an online world.In this raw conversation, Kamilah shares her experience hosting annual luxury retreats for Black and brown women entrepreneurs and the pivots her business has gone through. Jess discusses her virtual and in-person events for nonprofit fundraisers and consultants and her learnings around pricing, format, content, and size that create an intimate experience. They both explore potential sponsorships and partnerships to make their events more financially viable in the future while remaining aligned to their personal brands.Key Highlights:Gain insight into retreat and conference business models in the nonprofit space, including the significant upfront investments required to host events and the immense marketing effort involved.Understand strategies around pricing events profitably through tiered pricing models and requiring deposits.Discover ideas for potential brand partnerships and sponsorships that feel authentic by bundling offers and requiring budget transparency.Recognize the importance of proximity and intimate gatherings for referral marketing: "You can't get close to someone, you don't have proximity."If you've considered hosting events in the nonprofit consulting space, this transparent glimpse behind the scenes is essential listening to inform your strategy going forward. Tune in now to join Kamilah and Jess as they share their wins, challenges, and future plans.Find Us Online:  https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Kamilah: Katalyst Consulting (Website): https://www.katalystconsult.com/ Kamilah Martin (Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamilahmartin Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.comFractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagmanConnect with Jess:Out In the Boons: outintheboons.meLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutintheboons/

Bored of boring? This conversation on the Confessions podcast brings a spark of joy.Maryanne Dersh of Courageous Communication infuses playfulness into the often too-serious nonprofit sector. She shares how she’s been able to move beyond heaviness and limitation into ease and flow — in a way that’s sustainable as a business owner.We discuss the root causes of nonprofit drudgery and how to transform that energetically. Maryanne  explains why it’s essential we give ourselves permission to have fun and prioritize enjoyment. She offers insights on self-care, managing difficult emotions skillfully, and building true confidence.Key Highlights:- Learn how to bring levity and lightness to your nonprofit work joyfully- Discover sustainable strategies to nurture yourself on hard days- Gain tools to move through intense emotions while maintaining passion- Challenge imposter syndrome and create opportunities aligned with your unique talentsFind Us Online:  https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Maryanne: Courageous Communication (Website): https://www.courageouscommunication.com/ The Influential Nonprofit (Podcast): https://www.courageouscommunication.com/podcast Maryanne Dersch (Linkedin): https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryannedersch-courageouscommunication/ Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.comFractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagmanConnect with Jess:Out In the Boons: outintheboons.meLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutintheboons/

Should nonprofit consultants write a book to grow their business? Many purpose-driven entrepreneurs ponder this strategic question as they aim to establish their authority and reach new audiences. Jenny Mitchell generously shares her first-hand experience collaborating with 11 women leaders to produce the book “Embracing Ambition” in just 12 months. She breaks down the full process from initial conception to securing a publisher and coordinating author retreats for writing and editing. Jenny is remarkably transparent about the financial model and initial investment required. Writing and publishing the book cost over $30,000 when factoring in expenses like editorial services, author gifts and hotel accommodations. However, Jenny maintains it was worth the meaningful conversations sparked about authentic women’s leadership journeys.With over 25 years of experience in the sector, Jenny Mitchell is perfectly positioned to provide this rare glimpse behind the curtain. Key Highlights:- Insider knowledge of the book publishing process specifically for the nonprofit consulting industry- How to leverage strategic collaborations with co-authors to share more diverse and empowering stories- The importance of vulnerability and sincerity in advocating for women leaders- Clarity on whether writing a book is the right move for your particular business goals- Tips for maximizing the impact of your book through targeted PR, speaking engagements and podcast interviews

How can nonprofit consultants better manage their finances, cashflow, and profitability?It's a common pain point that keeps many consultants up at night. You're not alone!Tune into this conversation on Confessions with Jess and Cindy with Carleen Dehaney, Founder and Principal of FXO Consulting. With over a decade of experience guiding consultancies and nonprofits, she shares her proven framework for getting your numbers in order.Learn how to calculate your gross and net profits to know where you stand each month. Discover easy-to-use budget forecasting models to plan for the future and make informed decisions about growth. Plus, strategies to improve cash flow management when working with nonprofits who (sadly) often pay late.Carleen also tackles the mindsets and behaviours that hold many back from getting financially savvy. As she reminds us, "If you don't take care of the business, it won't survive and then you can't help anybody."Key Takeaways:- Learn how to calculate your gross and net profits - Discover easy budget forecasting models- Strategies to improve cashflow management - Mindset shifts to become more financially savvy- Actionable ways to start saving 3-6+ months of operating costsThink beyond just delivering services day-to-day. Get the insider advice you need to run a sustainable business with impact.

Shit happens. As much as we plan and organize, there is so much about running a business that is out of our control.Which is why we invited risk expert Rosalie Ennes to the podcast - to talk about how to manage risk in your consulting business. A risk management strategy can help you plan for the future, protect yourself from bad things happening, and also help you consider and calculate the upside of your business.This is Rosalie's story:Rosalie's journey into the world of risk management began during her college years, where she studied business administration and accounting. Her initial foray into external audit exposed her to the financial aspect of risk management, delving into the meticulous process of ensuring accuracy in numbers. It was her transition to internal audit, however, that broadened her perspective, enabling her to proactively tackle operational risks and streamline organizational processes. The passion for mitigating risks ignited during her time working with large corporations, and as she ventured into consultancy, Rosalie found herself drawn to impact-driven businesses, aiming to instill a proactive risk management approach. Through her diverse experiences and unwavering commitment, she has become a beacon of guidance for small businesses and organizations, empowering them to navigate the intricate landscape of risk management with confidence and foresightIn this episode, you will be able to:Discover effective strategies to protect your business from potential risks and uncertainties.Gain insights into assessing and mitigating financial risks to ensure the stability and growth of your business.Unlock the secrets to building and delivering impactful consulting services Find Us Online:  https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Rosalie: Website: https://portecuaconsulting.cpa/ Connect with Rosalie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/portecua/ Connect with Rosalie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portecuaconsulting/ Connect with Rosalie on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@portecuaconsulting Five Steps to Jumpstart Your Risk Journey: https://portecuaconsulting.mykajabi.com/opt-in-businesses Three Things About Risks to Know Today: https://portecuaconsulting.mykajabi.com/opt-in-individuals Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.comFractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagmanConnect with Jess:Out In the Boons: outintheboons.meLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jess-campbell-outintheboons/

If you're feeling stuck in the feast or famine cycle of consulting, wondering if you'll ever achieve consistent success, then you are not alone! Building a thriving business as a consultant can feel like a rollercoaster, with moments of abundance followed by periods of uncertainty and doubt. It's time to break free from this cycle and create a sustainable, fulfilling business that brings you steady income and joy. Let's explore how to make that transition from consultant to successful business owner a reality.This is Luz Reyna's story:Luz Reyna, the visionary behind Luz Reyna Consulting, embarked on a remarkable journey transitioning from politics to a realm of strategic and fractional leadership. Her introduction to this unique role stemmed from managing diverse responsibilities for a congressional campaign, sparking a realization of her true calling as a "fractional leader." Luz's innovative approach to pricing, based on a comprehensive understanding of her clients' needs and her own time capacity, ensures a customized and equitable value for her services. With a profound focus on social impact, Luz is dedicated to educating others about the concept of fractional leadership and its potential to drive positive change across industries. By seamlessly blending problem-solving skills with genuine curiosity, she has crafted a thriving business that resonates with her values and empowers her to effect meaningful change. In this episode, you will be able to:Master the art of starting a consulting business in nonprofits to make a meaningful impact in your community.Unlock the secrets of effective pricing strategies for consultants to maximize your earning potential.Learn the art of building a powerful network for business growth to expand your opportunities and reach.Embrace the journey of transitioning from consultant to business owner and unlock the potential for unlimited success.Find Us Online:  https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Luz: Connect with Luz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luzreyna Connect with Luz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reynaconsulting/ Connect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.comFractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagmanConnect with Jess:Out In the Boons: outintheboons.meLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jess-campbell-outintheboons/

Running a 7-figure nonprofit consultancy is a dream for so many consultants, but we’re often held back by the fear of being overworked or overwhelmed.  Find out how this business owner achieves success while maintaining balance and flexibility. This is Shavonn's story:Shavonn Richardson, the visionary behind Think and Ink Grant Consulting, was inspired to start her nonprofit consulting business after facing the intricacies of grant writing firsthand as a nonprofit leader and a funder. Her unique perspective led her to establish Think and Ink Grant Consulting, with a mission to empower nonprofits by providing strategic consulting, comprehensive research, and efficient grant management services. Shavonn's journey is characterized by her unwavering faith and a deep sense of purpose, further fueled by the revelation of her family's multi-generational involvement in this impactful work. In this episode, you will be able to:Discover the essential steps for starting a nonprofit consulting business and making a positive impact in the community.Master the art of building a successful consulting team to expand your impact and create a thriving nonprofit consultancy.Uncover powerful marketing strategies specifically tailored for consulting firms in the nonprofit sector, and elevate your visibility and influence.Explore practical tips for balancing entrepreneurship and personal life, ensuring sustainable success while maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle.

Kara, a hospitality pro turned marketing pro, reveals her secret to balancing a thriving co-working space alongside a booming marketing agency. But what unexpected confession does she share about her business journey? Dive into this episode for an eye-opening revelation that will transform how you approach your own business ventures.This is Kara's story:Kara's journey into the world of business ventures began with a passion for marketing and sales, which eventually led to the creation of KC Creative. Her deep understanding of the evolving digital landscape prompted the expansion of her services to include social media marketing and content creation. Her involvement with nonprofits, driven by a desire to support and uplift her community, opened new doors for collaboration and partnerships. With a keen eye for relationship-building, Kara's approach to consulting with nonprofits focuses on genuine interest and understanding, paving the way for impactful collaborations. Balancing her marketing business and the acquisition of a co-working space is inspiring for anyone who has multiple passions.In this episode, you will be able to:Master the art of starting a nonprofit consulting business and make a positive impact in your community.Uncover effective marketing strategies for nonprofit consultants and amplify your outreach.Learn the secrets to balancing multiple business ventures and achieve success without burnout.Discover the importance of hospitality in business and create unforgettable customer experiences that keep them coming back.Gain valuable insights into financial planning for small business owners and secure the future of your ventures.

If you're feeling frustrated trying to balance inclusive collaboration and fair compensation, and finding yourself overworked and underpaid, then you are not alone!This is Renee's story:Renee's journey began with a transformative experience at a previous job. Feeling unfulfilled in a hierarchical and unsupportive environment, she made the courageous decision to seek change. After a period of self-reflection and regrouping, she emerged with a newfound clarity of purpose. Through her blog, she shared her reflections and learnings, creating a space for others to relate and engage in meaningful conversations. This experience led her to establish the Ross Collective, a platform where she collaborates with an array of talented individuals, sharing a common goal of advocating for equity and inclusion. Renee's story is one of resilience and growth, a testament to the power of embracing change and turning adversity into opportunity. Her journey illustrates the importance of fostering open dialogue and building positive, collaborative relationships, which have become the cornerstone of her work in the nonprofit sector.In this episode, you will be able to:Mastering the Art of Starting a Nonprofit Consulting Business: Learn the essential steps to kickstart your nonprofit consulting venture and make a meaningful impact.Fostering Inclusive and Equitable Consultancies: Uncover the key strategies to create an inclusive and equitable environment within your business.Unveiling Effective Marketing Strategies for Nonprofit Consultants: Explore innovative marketing approaches tailored specifically for nonprofit consultants, amplifying your reach and impact.Conquering Challenges in Nonprofit Consulting: Gain valuable insights on overcoming common obstacles in nonprofit consulting, empowering you to navigate hurdles with confidence and resilience.

Join fundraising expert Steven Screen, with 31 years of experience, as he shares insights on business development, email marketing, training staff, and attracting small nonprofits in the nonprofit sector. Discover tips on structuring offerings, pricing, and effective client engagement strategies for consulting success.