Agents of Nonprofit

In this inspiring episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Grace-Anna Douglas, founder of Graceful Media, to explore how nonprofits can transform their marketing strategies and amplify their impact. We also tackle how to measure meaningful success, avoid vanity metrics, and use emerging tools like AI responsibly.Topics We Cover:Grace-Anna Douglas’s “superhero origin story” and how volunteering shaped her purpose-driven careerThe creation of Graceful Media and its mission to support small and mid-sized nonprofitsWhy nonprofits must balance fundraising with marketing to sustain long-term growthHow to identify and prioritize the right marketing channels for your audienceThe value of podcasting—both as a guest and as a host—for relationship-building and brand trustAvoiding the “metrics trap” and focusing on results that truly advance your missionCultural insights from international marketing campaigns and how to tailor messaging to different audiencesThe role of AI and out-of-home advertising in modern nonprofit marketingTo Learn More and Connect with Grace-Anna:Grace-Anna Douglas on LinkedInGracefulMedia.coEmail GraceSupport the show

Host Alexander Lapa shares a personal update on Agents of Nonprofit. After 3.5 years and 188 episodes, he reflects on the show’s journey, its value to the nonprofit community, and the financial challenges of keeping it ad-free. Alexander outlines possible paths forward - from continuing as usual to slowing down or pausing at episode 200 - and invites listeners to share feedback or support the show.My email: alex@dryadconsulting.com Website: https://agentsofnonprofit.comSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with fundraising strategist and behavioral science expert Cherian Koshy to uncover the psychology and neuroscience behind why people give—and why they sometimes don’t. From reducing friction in donation forms to designing moments of joy and trust, this episode offers a masterclass in building deeper, more intentional donor relationships rooted in empathy and understanding.Topics We Cover:Cherian’s “origin story” in fundraising and what inspired his exploration into donor psychologyAn introduction to Neurogiving and how neuroscience can ethically shape fundraising strategyWhy generosity is innate—and how to remove the barriers that suppress itReducing friction in the giving experience: from donation forms to mobile optimizationTurning donations into delightful experiences that celebrate generosityApplying behavioral science to attention, emotion, and decision-making in donorsThe power and pitfalls of gamification and visual psychology in donor engagementHow AI and intentional design can enhance donor relationships without losing the human touchTo Learn More and Connect with Cherian:The New Book: Neurogiving by Cherian KoshyCherianKoshy.comCherian Koshy on InstagramCherian Koshy on LinkedInSupport the show

In this Agents of Nonprofit conversation, I sit down with Maya Hemachandra, an interim executive and veteran fundraiser, to unpack the uncertain and rapidly changing landscape facing nonprofits in 2025. Together, we explore how nonprofits can transform crisis into opportunity through collective advocacy, adaptive leadership, and a renewed commitment to community-driven collaboration.Topics We Cover:The state of widespread funding cuts and instability in nonprofits in 2025 How advocacy can drive systemic change and protect vulnerable communitiesThe real-world impact of AmeriCorps funding cuts and grassroots legal actionUsing technology as a light, invisible amplifier for nonprofit efficiencyAffordable fundraising and CRM tools for small organizationsThe rise of AI in nonprofits—its promises, pitfalls, and privacy concernsThe power of fractional talent and interim executives during transitionsMaya’s “magic wand” wish: a united, collaborative philanthropic sectorTo Learn More and connect with Maya:Maya's WebsiteInterim Executives AcademySupport the show

In this thought-provoking episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with conflict resolution expert Shira May to explore how language, empathy, and emotional intelligence can transform the way we handle disagreements. Together, we unpack the psychology of conflict, discuss when mediation is (and isn’t) appropriate, and reveal how small shifts in language can turn confrontation into collaboration.Topics We Cover:The five classic conflict styles — shark, teddy bear, turtle, fox, and owl — and how to flex between themWhy conflict isn’t inherently bad, and how disconnection fuels most disputesTools from Getting to Yes and Harvard’s negotiation framework for effective conflict resolutionThe importance of emotional self-regulation before responding in heated situationsHow empathy, storytelling, and vulnerability can bridge political or ideological dividesRecognizing when a conversation is no longer healthy — and how to set boundaries gracefullyThe future of mediation and how AI might support (but never replace) human connection in conflict resolutionTo Learn More and Connect with Shira:CDSADR.orgE-mail Info@cdsadr.orgSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with B Michelle Johnson about the art and strategy of advocacy. B Michelle Johnson offers practical insights on building momentum, educating policymakers, and using storytelling to make an impact—all while reframing advocacy as a collective journey rather than a zero-sum battle.Topics We Cover:What advocacy truly means, and why the public—not politicians—is often the real audienceThe power of small but relentless groups versus large one-time mobilizationsHow nonprofits can prepare for and respond to opposition effectivelyReframing “losing to win” as planting seeds for long-term changeThe role of education in bridging the knowledge gap between citizens and policymakersOvercoming scarcity mindset and embracing a bolder advocacy voiceThe importance of storytelling, showing up in person, and using AI tools for advocacyTo Learn More and Connect with B Michelle Johnson:B Michelle Johnson, CFRE on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with guest Marika Luneau to explore how Generation Z is transforming the nonprofit landscape. The conversation dives into the ways nonprofits can adapt to attract and retain young talent, why giving Gen Z voices a seat in leadership matters, and how personal branding and authenticity will play a defining role in the age of AI.Topics We Cover:Marika’s unconventional entry into nonprofit work through coworking spaces and mission-driven leadersHow Gen Z defines itself and the values driving their career choicesWhy Gen Z rejects toxic work culture and demands balance, inclusivity, and fairnessThe risks of passion exploitation in entry-level nonprofit rolesFreelancing and consulting: opportunities, pitfalls, and timing for young professionalsHow Gen Z’s digital fluency (social media, web, AI) modernizes nonprofit communicationThe case for inviting Gen Z voices into boardrooms and leadership spacesPersonal branding, authenticity, and why it matters more than ever in an AI-driven worldTo Learn More and Connect with Marika:Marika Luneau on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Joanna Lund-Pops to explore her inspiring journey from volunteer educator to advocate and coach in the nonprofit sector. Together, they unpack how organizations can move beyond stereotypes, embrace inclusivity, and make neurodiversity a core part of their practices.Topics We Cover:The joy of fostering “spark” moments in young learnersDefining neurodiversity vs. neurodivergence and why the distinction mattersCommon strengths of neurodivergent individuals, from creativity to pattern recognitionWhy universal practices, not one-off fixes, help all staff thriveThe hidden costs of “masking” in professional environmentsHow AI tools like ChatGPT can support both neurodivergent professionals and managersTo Learn more and Connect with Joanna:Email JoannaJoanna Lund-Pops on LinkedInSign-Up for a Free Neurodivergent Leadership ResetSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Courtney De Ronde, co-founder of Forge, to explore the critical role of financial clarity in nonprofit success. She breaks down the three key financial functions every nonprofit needs, explains how restricted funds can create confusion, and offers practical advice for organizations looking to strengthen their financial foundations.Topics We Cover:Courtney’s journey into nonprofit auditing and why she built a specialized practiceThe unique challenges of nonprofit finances, including volunteer boards and diverse business modelsHow Forge supports nonprofits through audits, virtual CFO/controller services, and management consultingThe three critical financial functions: bookkeeping, controllers, and CFOs—plus why fractional access worksWhy audits are more than compliance—they’re tools for accountability and credibilityThe importance of reconciled records, proper documentation, and clear internal controlsUnderstanding restricted gifts and their impact on organizational flexibilityPractical steps smaller nonprofits can take to build strong financial foundationsTo Learn More and Connect with Courtney:ForgeAhead.com Courtney De Ronde on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, host Alexander Lapa welcomes Jena Lynch from Donorbox to share her insights on how nonprofits can prepare for the busiest fundraising season of the year. From leveraging AI thoughtfully, to building month-by-month strategies, to communicating in ways that truly resonate, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help nonprofits thrive at year-end and beyond.Topics We Cover:Jena’s “superhero origin story” and how she found her path into the nonprofit sectorThe “triple squeeze” challenge nonprofits face today: funding cuts, declining giving, and rising service demandsWhy donor retention matters more than acquisition—and how just a 10% boost can transform lifetime valueThe 3C formula for success: connection, retention, and clarityA month-by-month framework for year-end fundraising (September through December)How to use AI responsibly for donor communication and engagementThe power of segmentation and tailoring messages for different donor groupsWhy slowing down, documenting strategies, and planning with intention lead to healthier organizations and sustainable resultsTo Learn More and Connect with Jena:Donorbox.orgJena Lynch on LinkedInSupport the show