Agents of Nonprofit

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," hosted by Alexander Lapa and featuring guest Veronica LaFemina, listeners gain valuable insights into building effective remote teams in the nonprofit sector. Veronica, an experienced adviser to nonprofit CEOs and department leaders, digs into organizational strategy, leadership, and team management, shedding light on crucial aspects of nonprofit work in the age of remote and hybrid work models.Topics We CoverVeronica's extensive background in public affairs and creative agencies, including managing remote and multi-office teamsThe rise of remote work, both before and during the pandemicThe need for tailored approaches based on individual preferences and role requirementsInvolving team members in shaping remote work policies and norms, advocating for an agile approach to refine working models based on feedback and outcomesThe challenges of remote work, including communication, expectation setting, and productivity trackingBalancing Autonomy and AccountabilityChoosing appropriate check-in schedules based on work pace, with a focus on daily stand-up meetings for fast-paced environments and longer timelines for othersTo Connect with Veronica and Learn More:Veronica on LinkedInLaFemina & Co. WebsiteAsynchronously Working Blog PostSupport the show

In this insightful episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," host Alexander Lapa engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Katherine Lacefield, an expert in fundraising for non-human causes within the nonprofit sector. Katherine's extensive experience sheds light on the unique challenges faced by organizations advocating for animals and the importance of shifting perspectives to foster greater compassion and interconnectedness in philanthropy.Topics We CoverLegal complexities in Canada, where animal-focused nonprofits struggle to obtain charitable status due to restrictions on political advocacy, impacting their access to grants and tax receipts for donorsHuman-animal connection and its role in motivating individuals to support non-human causesThe societal perspective that pits animal causes against human causesThe complexity of public perceptions in philanthropy, and the difference between organizations focusing on cute animals like pandas while overlooking the protection of less visually appealing species.Framing issues in a relatable way to influence public attitudesFuture Trends in PhilanthropyTo Learn More & Connect with Katherine:LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," host Alexander Lapa engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Yulia Zhernovaya, a tech advocate for enhancing nonprofit operations.They explore Yulia's journey from volunteering to her role in bridging the gap between nonprofit missions and technological advancements. The episode delves into the challenges and potential of technology adoption in the nonprofit sector, shedding light on key strategies for nonprofits to enhance their efficiency and impact.Topics We Cover:Yulia's evolution from volunteering and mentoring to advocating technology in nonprofits, inspired by her global experiences and affinity for technology.The realization of the technology gap between a retail career and manual processes prevalent in nonprofit operationsHow Yulia found synergy with GiveEffect, a CRM platform designed to meet the specific needs of nonprofits.The challenge of fragmented technologies in nonprofits and the need for cohesive integration to avoid inefficiencies and information silosThe value of centralized data to understand supporters holistically, uncover untapped engagement opportunities, and enhance impactStrategies for nonprofits to select the right technology platforms aligned with their growth trajectory and unique needsYulia's insights into overcoming resistance to change, the fear of automation-induced job loss, and prioritizing technology implementation to drive efficiencyTo Learn More and Connect with Yulia:Yulia on LinkedInGiveEffectGiveEffect on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," host Alexander Lapa engages in an enlightening conversation with Carlos Restrepo about the fascinating world of digital asset fundraising.From the emergence of Web3 technology to the potential of NFTs and metaverse platforms, this episode delves into innovative strategies that nonprofits can use to diversify their revenue streams and connect with a broader audience.Topics We Cover:Carlos' transition from the healthcare industry driven by the unique blend of purpose and efficiency present in nonprofit work.The evolution of Web3 technology and the ownership of digital assetsHow organizations can leverage Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) in their fundraising effortsMetaverse platforms like Upland, where nonprofits can engage creators and donors in virtual spaces that align with their missionThe importance of aligning digital assets with an organization's mission and how diversifying income sources through technology can foster adaptability and innovation.Exploring platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn, where burgeoning communities discuss crypto, NFTs, and Web3The challenges and opportunities in the adoption of NFTsTo Learn More and Connect with Carlos:Carlos on LinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," host Alexander Lapa engages in a thought-provoking conversation with guest Anthony A. Dicks Jr. to explore the intricate landscape of leadership development within the ever-evolving technology-driven world.Anthony, a leader with a rich family legacy in leadership, shares his insights and experiences, highlighting the importance of authentic connections and the challenges of leading in virtual work environments. The podcast delves into the nuances of remote work, the impact of AI on leadership, and the future trends that leaders need to be prepared for.Topics We Cover:Anthony's Leadership JourneyThe Superpower of Equipping LeadersThe analogy of assembling Legos without a manual is used to describe leadership, underscoring its complexity in the tech landscape.Anthony underscores the importance of authentic connections and how virtual leadership has become both complex and disruptive.The shift towards addressing complex challenges in today's fast-paced environment.Trust, Commitment, and Compassion in Remote LeadershipAI's Impact on LeadershipFuture leadership trends, highlighting the need for addressing issues of loneliness and anxiety stemming from technology.The role of leaders in creating environments that offer not only productivity but also meaning and community.To Learn More and Connect with Anthony:Anthony on LinkedIn180 Management GroupSupport the show

In this podcast, the founder of Water, Health, and Opportunity (WHO) organization, John Renouard, shares his inspiring journey of creating an impactful nonprofit aimed at providing clean water to rural villages in Africa. He discusses the unique model of using human-powered drills owned by local drill teams to ensure sustainability and financial independence within the communities.The conversation also steers into the organization's efforts to combat female genital mutilation (FGM) and empower the victims to seek justice. John's stories highlight the transformative impact of clean water on communities and the importance of community involvement in creating sustainable solutions.Topics We Cover:The origin and mission of Water, Health, and Opportunity (WHO) organization.The village drill: A human-powered solution to drilling wells in remote areas.Empowering local communities through ownership and financial sustainability.The impact of clean water on health, agriculture, and economic growth.A heartwarming success story of an all-girls school transformed by access to clean water.Combating female genital mutilation (FGM) through collaboration with local authorities.Future plans: Expanding clean water projects and fighting against FGM.To Learn More and Connect with John:WHOlives.orgE-mail JohnDonate to WHOlivesSupport the show

In this podcast episode, Taj Carlson, the founder of Inciter Data, shares her incredible journey of working with nonprofits and leveraging data and technology to drive positive change. Taj's superhero origin story began when she collaborated on evaluation projects with nonprofits after her academic career. A turning point occurred when she witnessed an HIV prevention organization struggling with data management on paper forms, inspiring her to dedicate herself to bringing technology to nonprofits for improved data management.Taj emphasizes the critical role of reporting in data management and discusses the common challenges faced by nonprofits in generating useful reports. Many organizations use separate systems for different functions, leading to data silos. Taj advises mapping reports to data sources to identify essential data fields necessary for reporting.Topics We Cover:The journey of Insider Data and Taj Carlson's superhero origin story in nonprofit data management.Challenges faced by nonprofits in generating useful reports and mapping reports to data sources.Approaches to integrating disparate systems like Microsoft Access, Salesforce, and HubSpot.Understanding the differences between data warehouses and data lakes and when to use each.The importance of data governance and its role in improving data reliability and organizational alignment.Practical examples of how data governance reduces stress, frustration, and waste.Specific benefits of implementing good data governance, including risk mitigation, time savings, and improved decision-making.To Learn More and Connect with Taj:Inciter.ioTwitterLinkedInSupport the show

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we're joined by superhero Miriam Dicks, a management consultant specializing in operational cultures within nonprofits. Miriam shares her insights on creating effective operational processes and discusses the importance of assessing pain points, involving stakeholders, and aligning systems and structures to support growth and goals.Topics We Cover:The role of assessments in identifying pain points and providing tailored recommendations.The significance of involving leaders and staff in the assessment and decision-making process.Addressing cultural aspects alongside operational improvements.Real-life examples highlighting the consequences of organizational imbalances.The impact of clear job descriptions, performance evaluations, and structured processes.Exploring the seven archetypes of operational culture.Considering the implications and ethical concerns of incorporating AI in nonprofit work.To Learn More and Connect With Miriam:LinkedIn180 Management GroupSupport the show

In this episode, we're joined by Michael Compton, the creator of the CSC Innovation Lab at Denison University, to explore the realm of customer experience (CX) within the nonprofit sector. Michael shares his insights on understanding and improving CX through journey mapping, persona building, and operational frameworks. He emphasizes the significance of empathizing with customers and aligning organizational operations to create meaningful experiences. The conversation also touches on channel management, labels for customers, and prioritizing individual versus community experiences.Topics We Cover:The distinction between customer experience and user experience in the nonprofit sector.The methodology of persona building, journey mapping, and creating an operational framework for CX improvement.Determining the optimal number of personas to create, considering diversity and inclusion.The importance of channels and channel management in CX for nonprofits.Coordinating resources and avoiding overextension in the digital space.Sensitivity to labels for customers and alternatives to the term "customer" in the nonprofit context.Balancing individual customer experience with community experience and engagement.To Learn More and Connect With Michael:CX Innovation Lab at Denison UniversityMichael Compton on LinkedInContact Michael by E-MailSupport the show

 In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we're joined by Watt Hamlett, a Salesforce consultant specializing in nonprofits. Watt shares his journey in the nonprofit technology space and discusses his role in assisting organizations with Salesforce evaluations, troubleshooting, and long-term planning. The conversation highlights the significance of consultants in the nonprofit sector and offers valuable advice on selecting the right consulting partner for successful Salesforce implementation.Topics We Cover:Watt Hamlett's background and experience in working with nonprofits and Salesforce.The role of a Salesforce consultant in helping nonprofits during the pre-purchase phase.Key considerations when evaluating Salesforce as a technology solution for nonprofits.Troubleshooting and roadmapping for nonprofits already using Salesforce.The importance of consultants in driving technology goals and collaborating with nonprofits and consulting partners.Preparing for a Salesforce implementation: Insights and suggestions for nonprofitsWatt's List: A comprehensive directory connecting nonprofits with Salesforce consultants, including filters and search criteria to find the right match.To Learn More and Connect with Watt:Watt's ListWatt Hamlett ConsultingWatt Hamlett on LinkedInSupport the show