The Nonprofit Show

The monumental role data plays in transforming the social sector, with Adam Luecking, CEO and co-founder of Clear Impact. This discussion showcases how the right tools and mindset can empower nonprofits to create measurable, lasting impact, making it an invaluable listen for organizations striving to unlock their full potential through data. View on video!Adam begins by outlining two key types of data that nonprofits need to focus on: population-level data, which relates to broader societal conditions, and program accountability data, which evaluates how well individual programs perform. He notes, “There’s really two types of data out there—population-level data, which is much bigger than any one program, and program-level data, which is focused on how much and how well you do something, but most importantly, whether anyone is better off from your services.” He shares, with co-hosts Wendy Adams and Julia Patrick, that the shift toward data-driven work can create anxiety within organizations, especially smaller nonprofits that lack experience in performance reporting. Continuing, he advocates for a phased approach, encouraging organizations to start small and build their capacity over time. “Pick three to five measures and focus on whether people are better off. Start small, build your performance and data muscles, and improve as you go,” he says.This look into working with data also touches on the importance of aligning data reporting with funder expectations. Adam points to the need for nonprofits to shift their mindset from seeing data collection as a burden to understanding it as a core part of their mission. His mantra, “Bring precision to your passion,” encapsulates the idea that combining clear data with passion-driven work leads to greater social outcomes.You’ll change the way you look at your nonprofit’s data! Clear Impact has pivoted from providing professional services to offering specialized software that enables nonprofits, governments, and philanthropic organizations to measure and enhance their social impact. Check them out. . .ClearImpact.comFind 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 essential yet often overlooked concept of creating a true culture of philanthropy within nonprofit organizations, with Shannon L. Watts, Principal Consultant of Key Fundraising.  Hosted by Julia Patrick and Wendy Adams, the conversation looks into the ways nonprofit teams can evolve from simply discussing philanthropy to fully embedding it into their core operations and mission.Watch on video!You’ll watch and understand why Shannon emphasizes the importance of integrating philanthropy into every level of an organization, as she makes it clear that building such a culture is not merely the responsibility of the development team. Instead, it involves every member of the nonprofit, from board members to program staff. As Shannon puts it, "A culture of philanthropy is where everyone shares responsibility for bringing resources into the nonprofit organization." This does not mean that everyone is responsible for soliciting donations, but rather that each individual understands the role philanthropy plays in fulfilling the organization's mission and actively supports it.Drawing from her extensive experience as a consultant, Shannon highlights the unique challenges faced by grassroots organizations—those with budgets under $1 million, often with limited resources and staff. For these smaller entities, she notes, fostering a culture of philanthropy is not only possible but often more readily embraced. The smaller, cross-trained teams in grassroots nonprofits already operate with a collective mindset, which can naturally lend itself to philanthropic collaboration. Shannon’s expertise stems from nearly two decades of consulting work, as well as her recent academic achievement—a Master’s in Philanthropy and Development from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.Throughout the lively chat, the hosts explore the barriers to implementing such a culture, particularly resistance from staff who may not see philanthropy as part of their role. Shannon addresses this speed bump, explaining that it requires a clear commitment from leadership, particularly executive directors, to champion and sustain the philanthropic ethos. However, the rewards—such as improved staff harmony, enhanced donor relations, and increased fundraising—are profound, making the long-term effort worthwhile.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

Guest expert Angela Coaxum transforms the often-intimidating world of nonprofit financials into a vibrant, engaging conversation about storytelling. With her dynamic approach, Angela, a Regional Director at Your Part-Time Controller, demystifies the process of turning dry financial data into a compelling narrative that highlights the heart and soul of an organization’s mission.Watch on video!From the outset, Angela sets the stage for how nonprofits can weave their financials into the bigger picture. "Storytelling isn’t about spinning a yarn, but making sure we’re getting our message across—how we’re supporting the mission," she explains. By focusing on the mission and the impact of the organization, financial reports become more than just numbers; they evolve into the story of how every dollar helps change lives. It’s a shift in perspective that makes financials feel less like a chore and more like a crucial piece of the nonprofit’s larger mission.Angela’s infectious enthusiasm continues as she discusses the importance of making financial data visually engaging. "When you use charts and infographics, it really brings things to light," she says, "and people will tune in when it’s eye-catching." By turning numbers into visual narratives, nonprofits can grab the attention of board members, funders, and community partners—sparking conversations and deeper engagement with their financials. Imagine data that dazzles, with colorful charts that tell the story of your impact in a glance!Collaboration also plays a starring role in this episode. Angela highlights the need for teamwork between finance, development, and marketing to craft a financial story that’s not only accurate but emotionally resonant. She encourages nonprofits to ensure that their financial reports don’t just sit in silos, but instead become part of a collective storytelling effort that shows transparency, builds trust, and makes a lasting impact.By the end of this fast-paced episode, hosted by Julia Patrick, you’ll feel inspired to dive into your own financials with renewed energy, knowing that each number tells a part of your nonprofit’s bigger 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

“Your branding is more than a flashy logo and tagline. It’s about how your messaging connects with your community and builds trust over time.”, says Tony Beall, with cohost Julia Patrick.Their discussion explores the holistic nature of nonprofit branding, emphasizing that a strong brand is about more than just a flashy logo or a catchy tagline—it’s about creating genuine, long-lasting trust with the community and potential investors.Watch on video! Tony makes it clear that nonprofit branding must resonate deeply with the communities being served. This connection is crucial for fundraisers, who are often the face of the organization, and are on the front lines engaging with donors, investors, and community members. The conversation shines a light on the understanding that brand credibility is built not only through visuals but through the entire organizational culture, ethics, and consistent, transparent storytelling.The two also touch on the role of internal collaboration in branding. Tony advocates for including fundraisers and frontline workers in branding decisions, as their daily interactions with the community offer invaluable insight into the organization's image and impact. The pair also highlight milestone marketing—celebrating organizational achievements like anniversaries—as a powerful way to underscore trust and show longevity and success in service.You’ll appreciate how and why branding in the nonprofit world must be multi-dimensional, touching every part of an organization’s operations and outreach. The goal is not just to be seen but to be trusted, and that requires thoughtful, ongoing effort across all communications and actions.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 speedy world of nonprofit-corporate partnerships, the game is changing—and those who want to thrive need to evolve with it. Host Julia Patrick sits down with Zach Leverenz, the visionary CEO of SEED SPOT, to uncover strategies that not only land corporate partnerships but make them sustainable, high-impact relationships that transform communities.Watch on video!Zach doesn’t hold back. He shares powerful insights into how nonprofits must move beyond the old model of simply asking for charitable donations. "More and more, what we've seen is that getting really targeted and intentional about how the nonprofit understands the incentives and value they can provide to a corporate partner...is something that's overlooked oftentimes by nonprofit leaders," he explains. It’s a subtle shift, but one that unlocks immense opportunities for nonprofit organizations willing to think big.At SEED SPOT, Zach and his team master the art of forging partnerships that deliver mutual benefits. One standout example is their collaboration with Humana Foundation and Volunteers of America. Together, they tackle health equity in underserved communities—an initiative that perfectly aligns the mission of each partner. Zach describes, "This is a case where we’re not compromising at all. In fact, we're amplifying and accelerating the impact we can have through a more intentional look at how corporate sponsors think about their own goals."The key to building these powerhouse partnerships? Communication and trust. Zach stresses that successful partnerships aren’t one-off transactions—they’re deeply relational, requiring ongoing dialogue and shared vision. “Good partnerships are relational, they're not transactional. We are all humans, and we communicate and trust and build relationships with each other,” he says, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what makes these relationships flourish.If you're ready to take your nonprofit to the next level,  watch this episode and learn how to rethink your approach corporate partnerships. Zach makes it clear: the future belongs to those who create win-win alliances where everyone is invested, engaged, and driving toward real, measurable change. This isn’t just about writing a check—it’s about rewriting the rulebook for impact.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

A comprehensive guide for nonprofits navigating the world of policy, advocacy, and grassroots efforts, illustrating how nonprofits can and should engage in the political sphere.  Host Julia Patrick engages in a dynamic conversation with advocacy expert Amy Showalter, CEO of the Showalter Group, to demystify nonprofit involvement in public policy and advocacy. Amy's deep expertise shines as she clarifies myths and offers practical guidance for nonprofits looking to influence policy while remaining compliant with regulations.One of the key myths addressed by Amy is the misconception that nonprofits are prohibited from engaging in advocacy or lobbying. She exhorts, “It’s a myth that nonprofits can’t engage in advocacy, or even use the word lobbying. They’re allowed to engage in those activities.” Amy explains that while there are financial limitations and specific guidelines, the IRS encourages nonprofits to make their voices heard in policy matters, particularly those that align with their mission.She highlights the importance of nonprofits not just raising awareness but also focusing on achieving measurable results. “Awareness is not the metric. That’s a step in the influence process, but it’s not the result. The result is, are you changing hearts and minds of elected officials or the public,” she underscores, urging organizations to have clear objectives and success metrics in place.The discussion also explores the potential advantages and challenges of forming coalitions with like-minded organizations. While such collectives can amplify a nonprofit’s influence, Amy points out that they can also introduce complexity regarding decision-making and credibility. She advises organizations to weigh these pros and cons carefully.You’ll come away realizing grassroots advocacy is a powerful tool, especially for nonprofits, to effect change. Amy reinforces the value of nonprofits stepping into advocacy, not only for policy impact but for the benefit of their stakeholders and donors, who often support causes with strong advocacy components.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

Feel like you’re in a career rut?  In the realm of nonprofit work, personal and professional development stands as the foundation of success and longevity. Jack Alotto, a seasoned expert in nonprofit training and a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) lends host Julia Patrick his insights into the importance of a structured professional development plan. You’ll see how it can be both practical and inspiring. He advocates for a methodical and reflective approach to career growth, suggesting that nonprofit professionals should meticulously design their career trajectories much like preparing for a certification exam. "You've got to have a study plan. You have to have a goal at the end of the study plan to pass the CFRE test, and you have to work backwards from your test date," Jack exhorts as he speaks to the significance of proactive career planning.His enthusiasm for nurturing talent is clear as he discusses the transformative impact of professional development on individual careers and broader organizational success. "When fundraisers raise more money, Julia, all boats rise. Our lives are better," Jack states, demonstrating the collective benefits of one’s individual advancement and serving as a rallying cry for professionals within the sector.Throughout the energized chat, Jack stresses the necessity of having a clear vision and concrete steps towards achieving professional goals. He encourages viewers to gather resources, seek mentorship, and continuously assess and adapt their plans. His strategic outlook extends beyond immediate tasks to focus on long-term career objectives that might fulfill personal aspirations and advance organizational missions.Continuing, Jack's holistic view of professional development includes personal well-being, emphasizing the value of maintaining a balance between work and life to sustain a successful career. He argues for the inclusion of professional development in organizational budgets, advocating for investment in staff as a vital component of a nonprofit’s health and effectiveness.This episode is not only an educational resource but also as a source of inspiration. Jack's belief in the power of setting a well-crafted development plan will elevate both individuals and their nonprofits. Professional growth is a journey—intentional, ongoing, and deeply interconnected with our personal lives and the communities we serve.Watch on video!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

Best practices for vetting new prospective nonprofit staff, with the CEO of Staffing Boutique, Katie Warnock. Katie, with 20 years of experience in nonprofit recruitment, shares her candid thoughts on what it takes to identify the right candidates, emphasizing the importance of practical judgment over traditional HR methods.Watch on video!Katie begins by explaining her unconventional approach to recruitment, noting how her extensive experience in staffing gives her a more grounded perspective on what works. Katie's honesty about the limitations of traditional hiring tools sets the tone for the conversation, pushing listeners to think critically about common vetting practices.The informative conversation also touches on the controversial practice of reviewing candidates’ social media activity. Katie stresses the importance of being mindful about online presence during a job search. "We are going to search you. We're going to do Google searches... tighten up those sources, regardless of who you are or what you're posting," she advises. Her point reinforces the reality that, in today’s digital age, employers will almost certainly examine a candidate’s online footprint, making discretion essential.Throughout the episode with host Julia Patrick, Katie’s advice challenges the status quo, encouraging nonprofits to focus more on practical evaluations of potential staff. Her perspective is a refreshing reminder that, in the nonprofit sector, the human element is often as important as formal credentials.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

Responses to important questions about nonprofit finance and accounting, with  Deanna Peterson, director at Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC), and host Julia Patrick. This episode caps off a dynamic Nonprofit Power Week, that covered insightful thinking, key issues, and actionable suggestions about  financial management within the nonprofit sector.This conversation kicks off with Julia and Deanna exploring several significant questions that reflect common concerns among nonprofit leaders today. One of the first questions addressed is the consideration of shifting to a contracted CFO role as a current CFO plans retirement. Deanna outlines how the decision largely hinges on the specific needs of the organization, suggesting that the size and lifecycle stage of the nonprofit play critical roles in determining whether a full-time or fractional CFO is necessary. Another topic the two chat about revolves around the security implications of remote bookkeeping. In an era where digital transactions are becoming the norm, concerns about fraud and data security are prevalent. Deanna discusses the advanced financial technologies YPTC employs to ensure robust security measures are in place, and how they not only safeguard financial data but also streamline processes, making operations more efficient and less prone to human error.Cost considerations of employing a remote financial team also take center stage. Deanna speaks to the potential savings from reduced need for physical office space and traditional employee benefits, which can be significant. However, she goes on to describe that the true cost-effectiveness of such a setup depends on the organization's operations and the service model of the financial team. YPTC’s model, which involves billing based on actual hours worked rather than a flat fee, is highlighted as particularly client-friendly, as it aligns the firm’s incentives with client needs.Throughout the fast-paced and fun conversation, Deanna adds to the conversation with practical advice and real-world examples, illustrating YPTC's proactive and client-oriented approach. She touches on the broader impacts of financial decisions, from enhancing operational resilience to supporting strategic organizational growth through informed financial leadership.This episode is informative and also illuminates the path for nonprofit organizations looking to navigate the complexities of managing their financial team. It's an essential watch for nonprofit leaders who are contemplating significant financial transitions, with actionable insights into making strategic, informed decisions that align with their operational goals.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 insights on transforming budgeting at your nonprofit from a necessary evil into a strategic tool for growth and sustainability. In this lively Nonprofit Show Power Week episode, cohosts Julia Patrick and Wendy Adams are joined by Ariella Reiss, from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC). She turns the often-dreaded topic of budgeting into an empowering conversation for nonprofits.  . . . with wit, wisdom, and a touch of inspiration. Budgeting, as Ariella explains, is not just about balancing the books—it’s about dreaming big and setting your organization up for success. “The budget process is the one moment that you have all year to dream big... plan for a surplus,” she says, flipping the script on the traditional nonprofit mindset. Rather than approaching budgeting with fear and scarcity, Ariella encourages nonprofits to plan for a financial cushion—a rainy-day fund—that can help them thrive, not just survive.And it’s not just about numbers. Ariella passionately advocates for involving staff in the budgeting process, calling for a bottom-up approach where team members are invited to share their insights. “Involve as many staff members as practical…make them feel like the subject matter experts,” she says. By doing so, nonprofits can build a budget that not only reflects their immediate needs but also fuels long-term growth and transforming the budget process into a collaborative, empowering experience that fosters buy-in and excitement across the organization.What truly sets this episode apart is the zest Ariella brings to what can often be a mundane topic. With such a refreshing perspective, she emphasizes the importance of balancing optimism with realism—setting ambitious goals but doing so with a grounded understanding of the organization’s financial landscape. She advises nonprofits to embrace the unknown and aim high, reminding them that “if you don’t ask for more, you’ll never know what’s out there.”Ariella shows that budgeting doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. With the right mindset, it can become a powerful tool to build a stronger, more resilient organization—one that dreams big, plans smart, and embraces the future with confidence.  Enjoy!!!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