The Nonprofit Show

Technology has reshaped the fundraising landscape, and in this conversation, Matthew Burnell, founder and CEO of ClickBid, breaks down how mobile bidding and phone-based tech have revolutionized the way nonprofits engage donors.Gone are the days of frenzied paper-based silent auctions, where donors jostled for position, hoping to scribble down the winning bid. Matthew shares how ClickBid has streamlined the entire experience, making it easier, faster, and more engaging—whether supporters are in the room or across the globe.The shift wasn’t always smooth. When mobile bidding first emerged, skeptics hesitated. Change brings uncertainty, especially in traditional fundraising circles. But as Matthew points out, the data speaks volumes: “Just by adding the auction component, we see a consistent 30% bump in fundraising totals.”Matthew also talks about security concerns, explaining how new tech enhances donor safety. Instead of handing credit card details to a volunteer, donors can now pay securely from their own devices, reducing risk and increasing trust.This sparkly conversation goes beyond just auctions. Fundraising events have always centered around donor engagement, and ClickBid ensures technology enhances rather than replaces the human touch. For example, a real-time paddle-raise feature lets donors see their names flash on-screen during a live event—whether they’re in the ballroom or bidding from their living room.The future? Matthew envisions AI-powered insights that help nonprofits personalize donor interactions in real time—a game-changer in event fundraising. Watch and learn how “Fundraising tech isn’t just about transactions—it’s about elevating donor experiences.” #FundraisingInnovation #NonprofitTech #MobileBiddingFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

At what point in life do we stop growing, learning, or pushing beyond our comfort zones? For Lauri Hennessey, the answer is simple: never. Our cohosts welcome Lauri Hennessey, a communications expert, nonprofit leader, and now an educator at the University of Washington. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring—one of reinvention, resilience, and relentless pursuit of purpose.Lauri's story takes us back to her early years at the University of Washington, where she left school without a degree to pursue a career in journalism. What followed was a distinguished professional journey in media, politics, and nonprofit leadership. But beneath her successes, there was always that lingering unfinished chapter—her education. It wasn’t until a colleague’s simple yet powerful question, "Are you dead?" that Lauri recognized the only thing holding her back was herself. So she returned. Not only did she complete her long-abandoned undergraduate degree, but she went on to earn a master’s degree and ultimately became a professor. Through this transition, she discovered a profound connection between the nonprofit world and academia—both sectors fueled by storytelling, impact, and a shared mission for change. Lauri sheds light on a fascinating concept: ‘middle-essence’. Often compared to adolescence, this period between ages 45 to 65 forces individuals to question their purpose, their legacy, and what truly fulfills them. She challenges the inertia that can settle in as we grow older, urging us to remain curious, bold, and open to reinvention.For nonprofit professionals, her story is especially poignant. Burnout is real, talent is being lost, and many feel trapped in an unending cycle of fundraising, board management, and organizational challenges. But Lauri’s journey serves as a testament to the idea that stepping outside one's comfort zone—whether by returning to school, shifting careers, or simply re-evaluating what matters most—can be life-changing. "You can have many acts in life. Don't just accept the story you have now—ask yourself what's blocking you, and take that first step to rewrite it," she says.Her message is a call to action. It’s never too late to pivot, to rediscover passion, and to author the next chapter of your story! #CareerReinvention #LifelongLearning #NonprofitLeadershipFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The nonprofit sector is facing an unprecedented wave of leadership transitions, and it’s not slowing down. This discussion on "The Retiring Nonprofit Leader" delves into the complexities of executive transitions, the emotional weight of departing leaders, and the structural challenges organizations face when leadership changes hands.Guest Catherine Bradshaw, a leadership transition consultant at EOS Transition Partners, highlights the phenomenon of the "silver tsunami," where baby boomer executives, after years of delays due to economic downturns and global crises, are now retiring in droves. "The younger generation is saying, ‘I’m not going to work 70 hours a week,’ which means we need to redefine leadership roles."Nancy Long, executive advisor and former executive director of 501 Commons, underscores the burden these long-serving leaders have carried. "Nonprofits recover much slower than businesses or government from economic crises. Executive directors have been shouldering the weight, and now many are simply spent."Beyond the emotional challenges, there are significant financial and operational risks. Catherine warns, "A rushed transition can lead to the wrong hire, staff departures, and lost funders." Nancy adds, "A proper transition plan is like a race car pit stop—former executives should step back but remain available for critical guidance."This conversation is a wake-up call for nonprofit boards and executives alike. Proper planning, structured transition support, and a focus on leadership sustainability are key to ensuring organizations thrive through these changes.#NonprofitLeadership #ExecutiveTransition #SilverTsunamiFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

How do you transform a simple document into a powerful storytelling tool that inspires donor action? That’s exactly what cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall tackled on this week’s Fundraisers Friday episode on How to Use Case Studies in Fundraising. Case studies aren’t just dry reports filled with data; they are dynamic narratives that celebrate an organization’s impact. As Tony put it, “A case study is a celebration of the work and the accomplishments of your organization.” Rather than seeing them as another bureaucratic task, nonprofits should recognize them as strategic storytelling tools that capture purpose, execution, and impact. The fast-paced conversation highlights the importance of humanizing data with powerful testimonials—from clients, volunteers, or even city officials—adding credibility and emotional depth. Julia points to this shift in nonprofit storytelling: “The sense was if you don’t have images of devastation, you won’t light a fire under anyone—but now we’re seeing hopeful, positive images of impact.” Another key takeaway you’ll find? Who owns the case study? While some organizations leave this to research teams, Tony emphasized the role of marketing in crafting an engaging, visually compelling narrative. Plus, if nonprofits lack resources, they can partner with universities, business associations, and even SCORE (Gov’t agency) to leverage external expertise. The duo wrapped up with a powerful call to action: case studies aren’t just about the past—they should be forward-thinking tools that drive engagement, build donor trust, and inspire action. Whether used for grant applications, board reports, or major donor conversations, these documents must prove why the organization’s work matters.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

In the dynamic world of nonprofit fundraising, where digital tools and transactional techniques often dazzle, Sherry Quam Taylor sounds a clarion call back to the essentials—deep, transformational relationships. As we roll into 2025, Sherry delivers a message to fundraisers to ‘refocus on the fundamentals of building meaningful donor connections, rather than chasing the latest tech-driven trends’.Throughout this compelling conversation with host Julia Patrick, Sherry dissects the misconceptions of modern fundraising, emphasizing that while technology and events have their place, they shouldn’t overshadow the power of one-on-one relationships. Too many nonprofit professionals, she warns, have become "glorified admin fundraisers," trapped by the allure of automation and transactional efficiency at the cost of real genuine engagement."We want 50 to 75% of your annual revenue coming from relationships," Sherry offers up . . . "Donors give their best gift because of relationships, not because of flashy campaigns."She challenges NPO leaders to analyze their time and effort allocation, pushing for more data-driven decision-making when it comes to fundraising events. One interesting case study she describes, revealed that less than 20% of a gala’s revenue came from outside donors, prompting the NPO to take a hard look at their ROI.Continuing, Sherry introduces a powerful paradigm shift—leveraging brand authority on platforms like LinkedIn to attract mid-to-major-level donors. "We can’t hide anymore. Our donors need to see us as the thought leaders we are," she says.You’ll agree that Sherry’s insights can push the sector toward a more sustainable, relationship-centered fundraising model, so that nonprofits not only survive but thrive in the coming years. Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The nonprofit world is evolving fast, and as we step into 2025, organizations must embrace key shifts to stay impactful. Meico Marquette Whitlock, a workplace well-being strategist and CEO of Mindful Techie, unpacked the trends that will shape the sector this year!Mental Health Is a Must-Have, Not a Luxury. Burnout is at an all-time high, and nonprofits can no longer afford to treat well-being as an afterthought. Meico underscores the urgency, stating, “Taking care of your people and making sure they are well is the mission. If they’re not taken care of, your mission won’t move forward.”Flexible Work Is Here to Stay. The pandemic changed how we work forever, and successful nonprofits will be those that embrace flexible policies—not just remote work, but truly adaptive structures that prioritize people’s needs and productivity.Soft Skills Matter More Than Ever.  In an AI-driven world, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and human connection will define successful leadership. Technology can enhance efficiency, but it can’t replace the value of being human in the workplace.Authentic and Meaningful Online & Offline Connections. Whether remote, hybrid, or in-office, organizations must be digitally fluid—blending in-person and virtual interactions with intention, ensuring every connection has real value.AI: No Longer a Shiny New Toy. AI is now an operational necessity, but nonprofits must integrate it thoughtfully. From fundraising to donor engagement, organizations need a mission-aligned AI strategy that balances efficiency with ethical considerations.You’ll enjoy this conversation that will help your nonprofit navigate 2025 with clarity, purpose, and soul.Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

What happens when data, dedication, and passion collide? A revolution in nonprofit impact measurement! Host Julia Patrick welcomes Adam Luecking, CEO and co-founder of Clear Impact, for an unprecedented live reveal of the 'Social Sector Hero' of the Year 2025!After months of evaluating 60+ nominees from 15+ countries, they announce a game-changing leader in social impact-- the well-deserved winner is FurnitureBank.org! Dan Kershaw, the Executive Director, and his team, redefine what it means to create lasting change, ensuring that homes become more than just four walls—they become spaces of dignity and comfort.Furniture Bank not only provides essential home furnishings but also promotes sustainability by diverting thousands of pounds of furniture from landfills each year. Their impact is immediate and tangible—donated items are often placed in homes within 72 hours, making a real difference in the lives of families, refugees, and individuals transitioning out of homelessness. As Dan puts it: "It’s about creating a home, not just housing."Adam elaborates on the importance of Furniture Bank’s measurable impact: "Their impact was clear and compelling, and the data showed their transformative outcomes for those they serve." Dan highlights the often-overlooked issue of furniture poverty: "The need for food banks is well known, but who thinks about furniture banks? The type of poverty we address happens behind closed doors."This recognition of Furniture Bank showcases the power of data-driven decision-making in the nonprofit sector. Adam describes how ‘Clear Impact Scorecard’ equips organizations like Furniture Bank with tools to measure success, refine strategies, and communicate their results effectively.It’s a testament to how data-driven strategies can revolutionize nonprofit success, proving that numbers tell a powerful story—one of hope, transformation, and measurable impact. Watch, learn, and be inspired! And maybe apply for the award next year for your nonprofit?Find us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

An essential yet often overlooked aspect of nonprofit fundraising: legal documents. Hosted by Julia Patrick and Tony Beall, this discussion provides an insightful overview of key legal agreements that protect both nonprofits and donors while ensuring compliance and clarity in financial engagements.Tony emphasizes the critical nature of risk management within fundraising, explaining that documents such as donor agreements, gift acceptance policies, and sponsorship agreements are not just formalities but essential tools in establishing trust and accountability. "The fundraising professionals need to know why these documents exist, but it’s really the responsibility of the board and CEO to ensure these processes are in place," Tony says. He highlights that while fundraisers play a role in these agreements, the responsibility lies primarily with the CEO and board.Julia shares real-world anecdotes, illustrating the legal complexities of donor relationships, including the significance of the "bad boy clause"—a provision for addressing potential reputational risks linked to donor behavior. "I think more and more, savvy donors and big players are going to be putting these types of constraints into legal documents," Julia adds.A key part of the discussion centers around pledge agreements and the shift toward recurring donations, showcasing evolving donor expectations and digital giving trends. Sponsorship agreements are also dissected, emphasizing the necessity of clearly defined obligations and contingency plans for unforeseen disruptions.The hosts remind us that while these legal frameworks may not be glamorous, they are indispensable in safeguarding organizational integrity, donor confidence, and sustainable fundraising success.#FundraisingDocuments #Nonprofitfundraising #DonorTrust #fundraisingtoolsFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, and CEO of Cultivate for Good, explores the dynamics of leadership, workforce retention, and strategic collaboration in the nonprofit sector. Wendy, a trusted thought leader, shares a compelling vision for the future, detailing the urgency of prioritizing people as the driving force behind mission success.This lively conversation, hosted by Julia Patrick, opens with a stark reality: the nonprofit sector is facing a 19% turnover rate, a costly and often underestimated challenge. Wendy outlines the financial and organizational impact of constant talent churn, urging leaders to shift from a reactive to a proactive mindset. By investing in career development, fostering open dialogue, and ensuring employees feel valued beyond their paychecks, organizations can improve their retention and stability.Julia and Wendy shift to a critical issue: the traditional “sink or swim” mentality that has long dominated workplace culture. Wendy powerfully refutes this outdated notion, saying that the well-being of nonprofit professionals “is not a luxury—it is a necessity. The workforce has changed, and organizations must evolve with it by embracing a culture of support, development, and inclusion.”Another key topic during their chat is the necessity of strategic collaboration in an era where funding is more competitive than ever. Funders are no longer simply backing well-intentioned initiatives; they are seeking sustainable impact. Wendy points out that nonprofits must shift from competition to collaboration, aligning their individual efforts with like-minded organizations to amplify their reach and effectiveness.The conversation also touches on leadership succession planning, a topic many organizations hesitate to address until it's too late. With many sector leaders preparing to retire, Wendy talks about the value of grooming the next generation of leaders to ensure continuity and mission sustainability. By embedding career growth planning into organizational strategy, NPO’s can cultivate a pipeline of future leaders ready to carry the mission forward.Julia and Wendy wrap up this discussion with an inspiring call to action: it’s time for nonprofit leaders to rethink their approach to people, progress, and partnerships. With a commitment to investing in talent, fostering a culture of well-being, and embracing collaboration, everyone in the sector can navigate the challenges ahead and thrive.  #NonprofitLeadership #WorkforceRetention #StrategicCollaborationFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show

The CEO of the FreedomFund.org, Nick Grono, discusses his new book, How to Lead Nonprofits: Turning Purpose into Impact to Change the World. Nick shares his deep wisdom on leadership in the nonprofit sector, drawing from his extensive career that transitioned from corporate law and finance to public policy and, ultimately, nonprofit leadership.Nick highlights the Freedom Fund's vital work in combating modern slavery, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with over 150 grassroots organizations worldwide. He describes how nonprofit leadership differs from corporate leadership, pointing to the lack of structured training for nonprofit executives. His book addresses this gap by providing practical lessons, drawn from his experience and interviews with other nonprofit leaders.The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, peers into three critical themes: purpose, impact, and collaboration. Nick stresses that ‘purpose’ is the nonprofit sector’s unique superpower, capable of mobilizing teams, funders, and stakeholders to drive systemic change. He also discusses the necessity of investing in leadership development within the NPO space, arguing that funders should recognize leadership support as a vital component of their philanthropic investments.On the topic of ‘collaboration’, Nick acknowledges the challenges yet highlights its transformative potential. He explains how the Freedom Fund operates as a collaborative fund, pooling resources from multiple donors to support common strategies. He also points out that competition for limited funding often discourages collaboration among NPO’s--a problem the Freedom Fund addresses by committing to multi-year funding and fostering cooperative networks among grantees.Another major topic the duo talk about is trust-based philanthropy, an evolving approach that minimizes administrative burdens on grantees while providing unrestricted funding whenever possible. Nick shares how the Freedom Fund employs trust-based giving principles, including simplifying application and reporting requirements, to better serve grassroots organizations.Nick also advocates for “survivor leadership”, ensuring that those with lived experience in human trafficking and forced labor play an active role in shaping solutions. He explains how “frontline partners”, particularly local community organizations, are the linchpins of effective change, elaborating on why solutions must come from within affected communities rather than being imposed externally.This encompassing interview concludes with an inspiring message: nonprofit leaders must continuously realign with their purpose, invest in their leadership, and embrace collaboration to drive meaningful change. Nick’s book serves as a valuable resource for current and aspiring nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their impact. We encourage you to read it! #NonprofitLeadership #PurposeDrivenImpact #FreedomFundFind us Live daily on YouTube!Find us Live daily on LinkedIn!Find us Live daily on X: @Nonprofit_ShowOur national co-hosts and amazing guests discuss management, money and missions of nonprofits! 12:30pm ET 11:30am CT 10:30am MT 9:30am PTSend us your ideas for Show Guests or Topics: HelpDesk@AmericanNonprofitAcademy.comVisit us on the web:The Nonprofit Show