The Nonprofit Show

This is a must-watch for anyone in the nonprofit world looking to refine their messaging and build stronger relationships with their supporters. Tune in on this candid discussion on how to stay mission-focused, engage your audience, and share a story that’s truly worth telling.We dive deep into the importance of storytelling for nonprofits, featuring the wisdom of Robert Wheeler, CEO of Mission Clarity, and co-hosts, Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, cofounder of Cultivate for Good, and Julia Patrick--revolving around one central question: Is your nonprofit’s story worth telling?Watch on video!Robert brings his years of experience to the table, focusing on the importance of clarifying a nonprofit’s mission, particularly in times of crisis. In a world where nonprofits are constantly called forward during moments of upheaval—be it natural disasters or economic shifts—the ability to tell a compelling and clear story is essential.Wendy  adds her expertise, outlining how many organizations struggle to define and stay true to their mission. As she puts it, “If you don’t know what your mission is, there’s no way to stay on it.” This is a common pitfall for many nonprofits that get caught in what she refers to as the "drift," losing sight of the very essence of why they exist. The trio explore how to strike the delicate balance between authenticity and vulnerability without slipping into victimhood. Robert underscores this balance, saying: “When you portray yourself as vulnerable without being a victim, you breed collaboration. But when you drift into victimhood, you breed competition.” This powerful statement reinforces the need for nonprofits to tell their story in a way that invites others to join their mission, rather than simply seeking sympathy.You’ll walk away with a desire and new method to sharpen your nonprofit’s story! 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

Expert’s takeaways for anyone involved with nonprofit boards, offering fresh perspectives on how to inspire board members to think big, act boldly, and stay focused on the long-term success of their organizations!From two seasoned experts who recently wrote books about Nonprofit Boards, Julia Patrick, CEO of the American Nonprofit Academy, and Sherry Quam Taylor, CEO of QuamTaylor, dive deep into the challenges and dynamics of nonprofit boards.Watch on video!Sherry and Julia explore the importance of understanding how nonprofit boards operate and how each member’s expertise can either enhance or hinder the organization's progress.A major focus of the conversation is Sherry's "Build a Better Board Member" guide, where she outlines three often-overlooked characteristics that contribute to board success: being a learner, staying in your lane, and being financially bold and creative. Sherry argues that many board members are expected to contribute based on their expertise but lack crucial skills in areas like fundraising. She stresses the importance of board members being willing to learn and adapt to these areas, especially as nonprofit organizations seek to scale and grow.Julia adds depth to the conversation by discussing her book, Building Board Champions, where she shares actionable strategies for engaging boards more effectively. Together, they explore how communication and trust between the executive team and the board are essential for nonprofit success. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they unpack the challenges many nonprofit leaders face in aligning board members with the mission and financial goals of the organization.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

Unlock the powerful connection between volunteers and donors. James Goalder, Partnerships Manager at Bloomerang, makes a compelling case: Volunteers and donors aren’t separate groups—they’re driven by the same passion to make a difference, and nonprofits should engage them accordingly.Watch on video!“The reason people volunteer and the reason they donate are often pretty similar... If you’re not appealing to them for both, you’re missing out on a way to really cement that relationship,” James begins. This shift in mindset could be a game-changer, breaking down traditional silos and unlocking new opportunities for deeper engagement and support. James also tackles the sector’s current challenges head-on. With donor and volunteer numbers on the decline since the pandemic, nonprofits are increasingly leaning on major donors to keep things afloat. But he warns, “If the donor universe has dropped but the dollars have stayed relatively the same, that means we’re going back to the same major donors again and again... and eventually, they’re going to get tired.” This ‘donor fatigue’ threatens sustainability unless nonprofits start thinking differently—by engaging volunteers as donors and showing how both time and money make an impact. The key? Storytelling. James details how effective communication, filled with emotional narratives and impact-driven stories, keeps supporters inspired. When volunteers see the value of their time and donors understand how every dollar makes a difference, the relationship deepens. “Whether they stuff envelopes or write a check, both contributions matter,” he offers. This sparkling conversation will fire up nonprofits to rethink their engagement strategies. It’s not just about separating donors and volunteers—it’s about recognizing the overlap, nurturing those connections, and keeping supporters engaged with stories that resonate. With fresh ideas and actionable advice, you’ll feel energized and ready to bring volunteers and donors together to build something lasting and impactful.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

Host Meico Marquette Whitlock, and special guest Jeff Hensel from Eide Bailly, summarize the Nonprofit Power Week covering artificial intelligence and it’s role in the nonprofit sector. This conversation centers around answering viewers questions about practical concerns and considerations from nonprofits.The duo begin with comments about the shared responsibility between humans and AI within nonprofits. While AI can automate tasks and provide valuable insights, human oversight remains essential. Validating AI-generated content, ensuring data accuracy, and making informed decisions based on AI outputs are all critical steps in maximizing AI's benefits while mitigating its risks.One listener question focused on the use of personal devices and public AI platforms for work purposes. Jeff acknowledges the allure of readily accessible AI tools like ChatGPT but cautions against the use of sensitive data on such platforms. "The tech contractor is accurate in saying you shouldn't do that," Jeff explains, referring to the practice of inputting proprietary data into public AI modelsHe advocates for a more controlled approach, leveraging platforms that prioritize data security and responsible AI usage.Another crucial point raised is the ongoing nature of AI implementation. Jeff pushes for a measured approach, starting small and iteratively expanding AI usage as the organization gains experience and comfort. He draws an analogy to training an intern, highlighting the need for continuous learning and refinement. "AI learns," he explains, "but we have to teach it what it needs to know”The understanding you’ll get from this lively chat is the importance of viewing AI as a powerful tool that, when used responsibly, can significantly enhance nonprofit operations.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

AI is not just for tech giants—it is accessible, and with the right approach, it can empower nonprofits to achieve their missions more effectively. In the nonprofit world, staying current with technology is essential for efficiency and growth. In this Nonprofit Power Week episode, Jeff Hensel, a director at Eide Bailly, highlights the importance of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into nonprofit operations. AI offers a wealth of opportunity, but as Jeff points out, it's essential to adopt it thoughtfully.Watch on video!“AI is completely possible in your organization, but you need to be ready for it before you start using it,” Jeff begins. Nonprofits need to assess their current processes, secure their systems, and ensure leadership and staff are aligned in their understanding of the technology.The fascinating conversation touches on AI’s potential for streamlining time-intensive tasks, like data management, freeing staff for more strategic work. As an example, Jeff describes how robotic process automation (RPA) reduced one client’s workload by 70%, allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks. Such automation, he suggests, can be a game-changer, especially for smaller organizations with limited resources.While the fear of AI replacing jobs is a common concern, Jeff describes to host Julia Patrick, that AI, when implemented correctly, enhances productivity without diminishing the human element. It’s about improving processes, not eliminating roles.This video treatise with Jeff, is that nonprofits, regardless of size, are encouraged to start small—perhaps with automating content creation or donor communications—and build from there. This gradual integration allows teams to see immediate benefits, reducing fears and fostering a culture of innovation. Ultimately, the key to success with AI is to “map your process” first, ensuring that you're automating well-thought-out systems rather than perpetuating inefficiencies.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

Enjoy this buzzing conversation about the cutting-edge world of artificial intelligence (AI) in the nonprofit sector. The theme? Winning the Tech Game! Jeff Hensel, a tech expert from Eide Bailly, with a background at Microsoft, brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the conversation, sharing game-changing insights on how nonprofits can harness the power of AI. “At the end of the day, AI is going to become pervasive,” he says.  . . . . .Whether you’re a chemist, an accountant, or a nonprofit leader, the future is clear: AI will be integrated into nearly every aspect of work. The question is, how can nonprofits stay ahead of the curve?Watch on video!A key theme of this discussion, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Meico Marquette Whitlock, is the gradual, mindful implementation of AI. As Jeff describes, “It’s a process…you don’t want to go too big in terms of your scope.” He emphasizes the value of starting small, especially with manageable tasks like content generation or HR processes, to build momentum and achieve quick wins. This cautious yet proactive approach helps nonprofit organizations avoid the pitfalls of rushing into AI adoption without a solid foundation in place. The trio also talk about the human element of technological change. Meico suggests how a successful AI integration depends heavily on people’s buy-in and engagement, saying “From a psychological perspective…it’s actually healthy in terms of being able to support long-term change,” adding that employees need to see tangible short-term results to maintain momentum and alleviate fears about AI displacing jobs. And Jeff goes on to concur, stressing that fostering a culture of trust and continuous learning is crucial for navigating the complexities of AI adoption. Organizational success with AI lies not just in adopting the technology, but in aligning it with long-term strategic goals and ensuring strong leadership support. Jeff shares that AI should be seen as a tool to complement, not replace, human efforts, with its true potential unlocked when approached thoughtfully, with careful planning and organizational buy-in. This is day 3 of a very insightful Nonprofit Power Week Series, with Eide Bailly, covering many important aspects of tech in nonprofits. Don’t miss any of them!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

Nonprofits, like other organizations, are facing a pivotal moment where technology, particularly AI, is becoming increasingly central to operations. However, adopting new tech is not always seamless, and nonprofits often struggle to integrate these changes effectively. In this Nonprofit Power Week Day 2 episode, cohost Julia Patrick, along with Meico Marquette Whitlock, engage with Jeff Hensel, Director at Eide Bailly, in a discussion about preparing nonprofits for technological changes.Watch on video!Jeff begins by describing how one of the key components for success in adopting technology, especially AI, is understanding data. He explains that AI is built on data, both structured and unstructured, and organizations must be strategic in managing this data. He says, "AI is built on data...you need a strategy for both structured and unstructured data," reinforcing that a well-thought-out data management plan is essential for leveraging AI effectively. Without this strategy, organizations risk inefficiency and even potential security issues. This thought provoking conversation also explores the cultural barriers within organizations that may impede technological progress. Meico highlights that organizations often fail not because of the technology itself, but because of a lack of alignment and culture within the organization. He points out that having formal data systems in place is not enough if informal, disconnected systems persist—employees may still rely on their personal methods, like using Dropbox or thumb drives, which can undermine collective efforts.  . . . . .reinforcing the importance of a shared vision and consistent organizational practices.Finally, the trio talk about governance and security, reminding nonprofits that technological change is not just about adopting the newest tools but also about safeguarding data and ensuring that everyone is on the same page. As Jeff suggests, nonprofits must think holistically about technology, emphasizing the importance of governance structures that align with the organization’s long-term objectives.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 growing role of AI in the nonprofit sector. Jeff Hensel, Director at Eide Bailly’s Technology Consulting Group, joins our cohosts as they examine the practical and transformative potential of AI for nonprofits. This is the first in a deep dive five-part series dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations understand how AI and technology are reshaping the sector and how to navigate this shift effectively. Watch on video!Cohost Julia Patrick sets the stage with comments about the fears and uncertainties many nonprofit leaders feel about AI.  Jeff responds, noting that AI, particularly generative AI, is more accessible than ever. . ...  “The reality is that technology impacts every organization, and it’s not a magic wand but a powerful tool that, when used correctly, can supplement and enhance your organization’s work,”. His remarks reflect how AI is not a distant futuristic tool but an immediate reality that nonprofits must integrate into their long-term planning. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, he suggests that nonprofits approach AI like they would a new intern: "AI can add value, but it needs direction and guidance from humans to be truly effective." This synergy between human oversight and AI capabilities is where the real magic happens.As Jeff continues, he touches on the exponential growth of AI technology, warning that nonprofits should not fall into the trap of thinking AI will solve all problems instantly. Instead, they should focus on building a strategic plan that aligns AI use with their organizational goals. By understanding the limitations and strengths of AI, nonprofits can harness it for content creation, efficiency, and more, all while ensuring they don’t overlook vital aspects like data security and governance.This first day of Nonprofit Power Week with Eide Bailly begins the expanded in-depth series to follow. Tune in to each episode!!!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 right board involvement can demystify fundraising, turning what might seem like a daunting task into a more manageable and impactful team effort. From this lively session, expect to learn a lot about the sometimes complicated, yet critical, role of engaging nonprofit boards in fundraising, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall. This discussion revolves around the vital understanding that fundraising is a "team sport," as Tony aptly puts it. Together, they focus on the theme that board members play a significant role in an organization's ability to secure and sustain funds, but often, there's confusion about what fundraising truly is—and what it’s not.Julia strikes the early tone by sharing her personal reflections on her decades-long involvement in community fundraising and board service, describing how much she could have done differently with the right knowledge. She says, "I looked at the different decades of my life and what I could have done better, and what I did well.", reflecting the importance of continuous learning for board members to become more effective in their roles.Tony builds on this as they go on, explaining that while many board members feel a fear of fundraising, they can still significantly contribute by playing roles that don’t involve the daunting task of asking for money. He introduces four key roles board members can adopt: the Prospector, the Cultivator, the Solicitor, and the Steward. "You can support your organization from the launching pad to landing," Tony says, which shows the flexibility in how board members can engage in the fundraising process.Tony goes on to highlight the value of board members engaging as ‘Stewards’. “It just says a lot when a volunteer who has the highest level of accountability for the organization is taking the time to call you or send you a card," he says. . . . .showcasing the power of gratitude and personal connection in fostering donor loyalty.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

Learn from this inspiring journey how innovative technology is being used to address the systemic challenges within foster care, with Dr. Jennifer Jacobs, co-founder and CEO of Connect Our Kids. She shares how they’re working to provide tools to make a difference for the lives of over 400,000 children currently in the foster care system. Watch on video!An amazing series of connections. . . . . . . . Dr. Jacobs, whose background in nuclear engineering and counter-terrorism may seem unrelated to child welfare at first glance, was motivated to take action after reading about the foster care crisis. She discovered alarming parallels between the methods used to map terrorist networks and the processes that could be adapted to find families for foster children. “The foster care community does similar work with Post-it notes and Microsoft Excel,” Jacobs pointed out, highlighting the severe resource limitations faced by social workers. Her organization's groundbreaking software helps social workers efficiently locate biological family members, strengthening critical kinship ties that can profoundly affect a child’s well-being. For example, Dr. Jacobs shares the heart-wrenching story of Kelly, a foster child who was repeatedly moved between homes. After being asked what would help her most, Kelly responded, "I want people in my life who aren't paid to be there." Using Connect Our Kids’ tools, Kelly was reunited with her biological family in just 20 minutes—a life-changing moment that allowed her to finally begin healing!! The conversation between host Wendy Adams and Dr. Jacobs amplifies the crucial role of relationships in a child's development. Dr. Jacobs elaborates on the science behind this, commenting, “Relationships are key to the wiring of the brain,” which makes family and kinship connections indispensable for long-term emotional and mental health. Watch this fascinating conversation and you’ll agree that while technology alone cannot solve the foster care crisis, it is an essential tool that, when paired with compassionate, skilled social workers, it can dramatically improve outcomes for children in need.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