The Nonprofit Show

A comprehensive overview of how nonprofits can innovate effectively by combining creativity with disciplined processes. By understanding and addressing core needs, fostering consensus, and maintaining a structured approach to innovation, nonprofits can overcome the challenges posed by a scarcity mindset and achieve sustainable growth and impact. Stewart Severino, the Head of Innovation at The Navigators, discusses the concept of "disciplined innovation" in the nonprofit sector.  Watch on video!Co-host Julia Patrick opens the conversation by expressing her enthusiasm about discussing disciplined innovation, emphasizing how important it is for nonprofits to balance creativity with structured processes. Stewart shares his background from the for-profit sector to the nonprofit world and highlights the similarities in challenges both sectors face. He notes, “The nonprofit sector is currently grappling with inefficiencies and a scarcity mindset that limits their potential impact.” One of the key points Stewart makes is the prevalence of a scarcity mindset among nonprofits, which often leads to a reluctance to take risks. This mindset, he argues, hampers innovation.  Co-host Tony Beall echoes this sentiment, stating, “Nonprofits are not risk takers, and when you think of innovation, you think of the need to be able to take risks in order to test innovation.”, which is a problem for many nonprofits: the fear of failure and the perceived lack of resources to experiment and innovate. Stewart also emphasizes the value of understanding the core needs of the target audience. He explains that many nonprofit initiatives fail because they do not accurately identify or agree on the core needs they aim to address. This lack of consensus can lead to wasted resources and ineffective solutions. He puts it this way, saying, “We cannot afford to sustain throwing things against the wall and seeing what sticks. It’s just not a good financial stewardship move.” This lively conversation then shifts to practical strategies for fostering disciplined innovation. Stewart suggests a structured approach beginning with some research to identify the core needs, followed by ideation and brainstorming, and finally, testing and refining the developed solutions. This disciplined process ensures that innovations are not only creative but also practical and sustainable. This session amplifies on the need for a clear, concise understanding of the organization's mission and the specific needs it aims to meet. Stewart gives us a valuable framework for achieving this consensus, using what he terms a "job statement," which clearly defines the verb, object, and clarifying statement of the organization's mission. This framework helps ensure that all team members are aligned and working towards the same goals.  Watch and learn more!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

Exploring the challenges and triumphs faced by emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector, from the fresh perspectives that Generation Z brings to the table, with guests Anum Qadir and Christian Celeste Tate from the Bridgespan Group. Watch on video!Host Julia Patrick kicks off this eye-opening chat by acknowledging the frequent exclusion of young leaders from critical discussions about the future. "It's just a bunch of old people like me yammering on and not engaging our next-gen leaders," she remarks, setting the stage for this thought-provoking dialogue. Christian Celeste Tate, who co-hosts Bridgespan's "Dreaming in Color" podcast, shares key takeaways from their recent season, which focuses on elevating leaders of color within the social sector. "One of the most powerful messages for me personally comes from Michael Tubbs," Christian says, referencing the former mayor of Stockton, CA. Tubbs emphasizes the importance of identifying not just what we want to succeed for but what we are willing to fail for. "That measure is such a different bar that really requires you to reflect on what's important to you and what you're willing to go out on a limb for." Anum Qadir, also from the Bridgespan Group, speaks on the necessity of embracing risk, particularly for young leaders who might feel intimidated by the possibility of failure. She highlights the different forms that risk can take and emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries. "You can't even imagine what's possible unless you're willing to try and push those boundaries," Anum states, drawing from her own experiences and those of her colleagues. The trio dig into the importance of celebrating success as a form of activism. Anum shares insights from a conversation with Arlan Hamilton of Backstage Capital, who proposes that celebrating success not only sustains individuals but also serves as a model for others. "Success is a form of activism. It helps us see that even when things get hard, there is progress being made," Anum quotes, which points out the dual benefit of personal and communal upliftment. Christian and Anum touch on the necessity of creating inclusive and supportive environments. Christian notes that building a new world involves risk and requires bold, imaginative steps. "When we're building a world that doesn't exist today, there's no way forward that doesn't involve risk," he says, advocating for a mindset that embraces both success and failure as part of the journey. Continuing, about the dynamics of leadership, in relation to gender and cultural expectations, Anum reflects on her own upbringing in a South Asian household and the cultural nuances that influence one's approach to leadership. She emphasizes the values of listening to and integrating diverse perspectives, saying that true progress comes from acknowledging and harnessing the full potential of a group's collective brilliance. The episode ends with a reflection on the concept of radical love in leadership. Christian and Anum agree that embodying the values we strive for in ouFind 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 pressing issue within the nonprofit sector: why Development Directors often leave their positions after an average of just 19 months. The conversation, with cohosts Julia Patrick and Tony Beall, is both eye opening and spirited, deliberating about the various factors contributing to this high turnover rate and offering practical solutions to improve retention. Watch on video!Tony Beall, known for his expertise and passion in nonprofit consultancy, shares that one of the main reasons for this rapid turnover is the lack of adequate resources and support provided to Development Directors. He emphasizes that organizations often bring in fundraising professionals without equipping them with the necessary tools, such as up-to-date technology and sufficient budgets for travel and networking. This lack of support can lead to frustration and burnout, pushing talented individuals to seek opportunities elsewhere. Julia echoes Tony's concerns and highlights an often-overlooked aspect: the time it takes for a new employee to fully integrate into a role. She recalls an HR expert's insight that it typically takes about 12 months for someone to acclimate to a new job, learning the organization's culture, processes, and expectations. If Development Directors are leaving shortly after this period, it means they barely have enough time to make a significant impact before moving on, which can be detrimental to the organization's stability and growth. Tony also addresses the unrealistic expectations placed on Development Directors. He explains that many organizations fail to understand the complexities of fundraising and the time required to build relationships and secure donations. This disconnect often leads to undue pressure on fundraising professionals, causing them to feel undervalued and unsupported. A pointed quote from Tony encapsulates the core of the issue: "There is a runway that we should expect new employees, and development folks specifically, to travel on before we start seeing the kind of results that you might like to see from that sort of professional." This statement drives home the value of patience and realistic expectations in retaining talented Development Directors. In addition to discussing the challenges, Tony and Julia explore potential solutions. They advocate for creating a culture of philanthropy within organizations, where everyone understands and participates in the fundraising process. Celebrating small successes along the way and ensuring that development professionals feel supported and valued can make a significant difference. Moreover, they touch on the importance of flexible incentives beyond financial compensation, e.g. tailoring rewards to individual preferences, such as additional time off or the ability to work remotely, can boost morale and loyalty among staff.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 importance of volunteers in your nonprofit’s ecosystem with specific actionable insights for organizations to better manage and nurture their volunteers.  An informative chat with Jared Throneberry from Bloomerang.  By valuing volunteers' contributions and strategically engaging them, nonprofits can build a loyal and motivated volunteer base that is crucial for their success. Watch on video!Jared shares his unique journey from an IT and business analyst background to his current role at Bloomerang, and shares his insights into volunteer management highlighting the need for strategic engagement and thoughtful placement of volunteers. One key Jared emphasizes is the importance of matching the right volunteer with the right task. He illustrates this with an example from his experience: "If a volunteer doesn't feel like they're being useful or helpful in a particular area, it's probably because that's the thing they don't need to be doing. You need to find the other person who enjoys that,  that will enjoy and appreciate it." This approach ensures that tasks are completed efficiently and fosters a sense of fulfillment and purpose among volunteers, plus it encourages them to return and remain engaged. With host Julia Patrick, the two dig into the often-overlooked aspect of treating volunteers with the same respect and appreciation as donors. Jared notes, "Thank you for donating your time and your energy. You're helping to support our mission." This mindset shift from seeing volunteers as free labor to recognizing them as integral parts of the mission is vital for building long-term relationships and encouraging repeat volunteerism. Continuing, Jared shares practical strategies for engaging volunteers, such as providing impactful feedback and showing appreciation through follow-up communication. He recounts a memorable volunteering experience with a customer who provided shower systems for homeless populations. The experience was enriched by a pre-volunteering briefing that detailed the mission and impact of the work, followed by hands-on, gritty tasks like cleaning showers. Despite the nature of the work, the thorough orientation and clear communication of the mission made it a fulfilling experience for Jared and his colleagues. Julia highlights the parallel between customer retention in the business world and volunteer retention in nonprofits. Just as restaurants thrive on repeat customers, nonprofits must cultivate long-term relationships with volunteers. Jared suggested simple yet effective practices like sending personalized follow-up surveys and sharing the tangible impacts of volunteer efforts to keep the engagement strong.  If your nonprofit finds volunteer support and management challenging, this is a great primer for you!!!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 innovative concept of peer-to-peer fundraising intertwined with corporate social responsibility (CSR), showcasing how businesses can drive meaningful impact in their communities, with Steve Lausch, the Director of Product Marketing at One Cause and Managing Director of #IndyTechGives. Watch on video!Steve starts by taking us back to 2019, the inception year of Indy Tech Gives, a pioneering initiative born from a simple yet profound question: "What might happen if we were to give our peer-to-peer fundraising software away to local Indiana businesses at no cost?" This question led to the creation of a five-week social giving program that unites Indianapolis’s tech community to support various nonprofits. One of the key highlights of this fun conversation, with host Julia Patrick, is the seamless integration of competitive and community giving. Steve elaborates, "We talk a lot about community giving and competitive giving, and they are two beautiful sides of the same coin." This dual approach has spurred a vibrant engagement among employees and tech companies, driving significant fundraising outcomes. The competitive spirit is evident as teams and individuals participate in unique fundraising activities, from shaving heads to hosting yoga sessions in public parks, all to rally support for their chosen nonprofits. The pandemic's onset in 2020 posed a significant challenge, but it also brought to light the adaptability and resilience of the initiative. As Steve recalls, "People don't know where north is on the compass, and we need to rethink this." Despite initial uncertainties, the program not only continued but thrived, proving the power of digital engagement in times of crisis. Julia and Steve dig into the benefits corporations reap from participating in such initiatives. The boost in employee morale, the enhancement of CSR efforts, and the alignment of corporate values with community impact are profound. Steve emphasizes the importance of engaging employees early in the process, allowing them to voice their preferences and rally around causes they genuinely care about. As the two wrap up, Steve shares the impressive milestones achieved by Indy Tech Gives. Over six years, the initiative has seen participation from 30 businesses and raised over $325,000, impacting numerous central Indiana nonprofits. This success story is a testament to the potential of combining technology with philanthropy, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the community.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

Award-winning sports reporter Jason Wolf sheds light on the intricate and often misunderstood world of professional athletes and their nonprofit organizations. Wolf, known for his investigative prowess with the Arizona Republic and the USA TODAY Network, describes his findings in the mismanagement and inefficiencies that plague many athlete-founded charities, despite the athletes' noble intentions. Watch on video!Wolf's journey into this niche field began serendipitously while covering star NFL player Delaney Walker. He recalls, “I had known enough to know that 990 is that the federal tax returns were public records and that I could get my hands on them. But once I printed them out, I had no idea what I was looking for.”, which marked the start of his deep look into the financial and operational workings of nonprofits, culminating in a groundbreaking series of reports. His investigation, notably the “Mismanagement of the Year” project, scrutinized the nonprofits founded by Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award winners. This prestigious award, given annually since 1970, recognizes NFL players for their philanthropy and community service. Wolf explains, “My investigation into the efficiency of the nonprofits founded by these esteemed men reveals that many of them are far more inefficient than even the athletes themselves realize.” The investigation uncovered alarming trends, such as significant portions of donated funds being consumed by administrative costs rather than directly supporting charitable causes. Wolf shared a startling example: “My investigation in Buffalo showed that the for-profit nonprofit management company that ran Andy Dalton's nonprofit was contractually entitled to... a quarter of every dollar donated. So when Bills fans donated it was $442,000 to Andy Dalton's nonprofit. This for-profit company took 100 grand off the top.” The primary issue, according to Wolf, is the involvement of marketers rather than nonprofit professionals in managing these charities. This is resulting in poor financial oversight and operational inefficiencies. Wolf’s findings have garnered numerous accolades and have sparked meaningful changes within the sports philanthropy landscape. One of the most impactful outcomes of his work is the formation of Sport for Impact, co-founded by former NFL star Anquan Boldin. This organization aims to educate players and their families about responsible sports philanthropy. Wolf proudly comments, “The most wonderful thing that has come out of this work has been Anquan Boldin co-founding Sport for Impact... the Jacksonville Jaguars are the first NFL team to provide them with a grant.” Because of his thorough investigations and dedication to uncovering the truth, Jason Wolf has illuminated the need for greater transparency and efficiency in athlete-run nonprofits. His work continues to inspire change, urging athletes to adopt best practices and ensure that their charitable endeavors truly benefit those 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

An inspiring conversation with Joshua and Cortnie Parish, the passionate founders of VET Life, to discuss the journey from military to civilian life. Their personal story and their nonprofit’s story are a testament to the power of family, community, and unwavering support in the transition process. Watch on video!Joshua begins by sharing his military background, painting a vivid picture of his life on a Native American reservation in Michigan. From an early age, a sense of family and purpose is ingrained in him. However, after serving in Iraq during the initial invasion in 2003, Joshua faced the harsh reality of adjusting to civilian life. “One thing they don’t tell you when you get home from combat is you can’t turn that off,” he says. This sentiment speaks to the ongoing struggle many veterans face upon returning home. Cortnie, with her background in organizational leadership, speaks about the crucial role families play in this transition. “Families often in their own way, face deployments as well,” she says, addressing the importance of including the entire family in their events and programs. This holistic approach sets VET Life apart from other organizations, recognizing that the challenges of reintegration extend beyond the individual veteran. The Parishes' dedication to their mission is evident in their innovative approaches, such as the creation of Vet Fest. This event not only provides resources but also creates a fun, inclusive environment for veterans and their families. Joshua proudly shares, “In 2023, the VA reaches out and asks if they could replicate our Vet Fest on a national model.”,  recognizing the impact of their nonprofit’s work and their commitment to improving the quality of life for veterans. A big part of this embracing conversation is the systemic challenges veterans face in accessing their benefits. Joshua recounts his own struggle, explaining, “The military doesn’t prepare you for what civilian life really is like.” Cortnie’s gentle push for Joshua to utilize his benefits and further his education brings home the reality of family support in navigating these complexities. The Parishes are not just helping individual veterans; they are shaping a new model for veteran support. Their efforts lead to the digitization of military records in Michigan, streamlining access to crucial documents, along with Joshua’s creation of the Battle Buddy app, a one-stop shop for veteran resources, is another innovative step toward addressing these systemic issues. In the words of Joshua Parrish, “We want you to know that there are people out there that care about you and want to see you be the most successful version of yourself.”.  Learn more at: VetLifeToday.orgFind 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 nuanced topic of "selling" within the nonprofit sector, shedding light on common misconceptions, presented by co-hosts Tony Beall and Julia Patrick. Watch on video!Julia kicks off the show by introducing the new Fundraisers Friday initiative. "We think that this concept, this epic task that fundraisers have, deserves its own day," she declares, whilst Tony Beall, renowned for his expertise in the nonprofit world, adds a touch of humor and big picture clarity to the conversation.  The focus of this episode revolves around the idea of "cause selling," a term Tony introduced to Julia years ago. "In fact, we are all selling and we are all selling all the time," Tony explains, emphasizing that in the nonprofit context, selling involves promoting solutions, ideas, and community needs to passionate supporters. This approach, he argues, is integral to successful fundraising.  Julia concurs, sharing her personal experience. "If I had been educated on this process when I was a young community leader... I would have raised millions more for my community," she admits. Tony elaborates on the cause selling curriculum from the Fundraising Academy at National University, noting its efficacy. "We had folks that would come out of that program... raising a lot more money for their organization," he states, which ties into the importance of professional development in enhancing fundraising outcomes. The conversation also looks at the stigma associated with the term "selling" in the nonprofit world. "No one wants to feel like they're working in transaction mode," Tony acknowledges. However, he stresses that many aspects of fundraising, from OKRs to KPIs, inherently align with sales principles, advocating for a shift in perception. Julia and Tony agree on the necessity of transparency and collaboration within nonprofit organizations. "Selling is a team sport," Tony adds, advocating for inclusive involvement in fundraising efforts. Julia supports his view, and points to the role of trust and authentic communication in fostering successful donor relationships. This dynamic exchange sets the tone for future Fundraisers Friday episodes, dedicated to empowering fundraisers and advancing the nonprofit sector's mission. With engaging discussions and expert advice, Fundraisers Friday aims to demystify fundraising and equip nonprofit professionals with the tools and confidence to excel in their roles.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

Community Options empowers individuals with disabilities through innovative programs, person-first language, and meaningful employment opportunities. Learn about the transformative impact of inclusive living environments and the future potential of people with disabilities in the workforce with Robert Stack, President and CEO of Community Options, as he shares insights on disability advocacy and inclusive housing solutions in this enlightening interview. Watch on video!Robert begins by sharing the compelling journey and mission of Community Options, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to developing housing and employment for people with disabilities. Community Options, founded in 1989, arose from the pressing need to provide sustainable living solutions for individuals with disabilities who were either living in institutions or with aging parents unable to care for them. Robert explains, "We saw a need for this because there were so many thousands and thousands of people with disabilities living in institutions and living with mom and dad. And now mom and dad are getting older. They're no longer able to care for them, and they didn't know where to turn." This mission drives the organization's innovative approach of buying small homes and creating inclusive living environments where individuals with disabilities can lead independent lives, equipped with the necessary skills and support. Robert reflects on the progress made over the years in disability advocacy. "I think we've made tremendous progress, but we still have a long way to go," he states. Highlighting the importance of evolving language and societal attitudes, he emphasizes the shift from labels like "the disabled" to "people with disabilities," underscoring the importance of person-first language. The conversation, with host Julia Patrick, digs into the practical aspects of Community Options' work. Robert shares a poignant story of Bernard, an individual who found meaningful employment and a better quality of life through the organization. "Bernard was blind and had intellectual disabilities, but he knew that what he was doing was meaningless," Robert recounts. Community Options provided Bernard with a job as a receptionist, where he thrived, living independently and retiring after a fulfilling career. Looking ahead, Robert envisions a future where people with disabilities play a vital role in the workforce. "We still need somebody to carry our luggage up the stairs. We still need somebody to clean our office. We still need somebody who can help us change the tire on our car. People with disabilities will be those people," he predicts, highlighting the untapped potential of this community. This compelling discussion sheds light on the transformative power of inclusive practices and the ongoing journey toward equality and dignity for all individuals with disabilities. Community Options stands as a testament to the positive impact of dedicated advocacy and innovative solutions in the nonprofit sector.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

From the author of "Aha Moments: Unlocking the Secrets of Effective Nonprofit Leadership.", discover key strategies for strengthening nonprofit leadership, tackling challenges in board governance, staff development, and innovative fundraising. Michael D. Dozier's extensive experience managing large organizations will five you actionable insights to inspire and lead your nonprofit team effectively. Watch on video!Michael shares his journey from leading large organizations managing a staff of over 300 with a budget of $14 million,  providing a rich backdrop for the conversation. He begins with emphasizing the importance of leadership development and fundraising as critical areas for nonprofit success. "One thing that motivated me to write this book was the variety of challenges nonprofit leaders face, from board governance issues to staff development," Michael explains. "Sharing practical tips can help others avoid the mistakes I made and navigate their paths more smoothly." With host Julia Patrick, the two dig into the evolution of nonprofit management resources. Reflecting on the past, Michael notes, "When I started, there weren't many resources available. It was a baptism by fire. Nowadays, leaders have access to so much more information and training opportunities." This access to resources is a game-changer for current and future nonprofit leaders. A large part of this rapid-fire conversation focuses on the challenges and dynamics of leadership in the nonprofit sector, highlighting the importance of adapting to new fundraising strategies and technologies. Michael points out, "Young people bring fresh ideas to the table, especially with technology. They are more inclined to use platforms like social media for fundraising, which can be incredibly effective." He also stresses the key value of continuous learning and development for leaders at all stages of their careers. Addressing the concern of leadership burnout, Michael points to the pressures and demands that come with managing large teams and significant budgets. "It's crucial to offer professional development and cross-training within organizations," he advises. "This not only prepares individuals for leadership roles but also helps in managing the workload more effectively." Co-host Julia Patrick concludes by highlighting the book's role in providing actionable insights for nonprofit leaders. "Aha Moments" is not just a reflection of Michael Dozier's experiences but a practical guide filled with strategies to inspire and lead nonprofit teams effectively.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