The Nonprofit Show

Voice coach Tracy Goodwin explores the critical role of voice in nonprofit communication. She introduces the concept of "voice masks"—invisible barriers we create with our voice due to insecurities—and discusses how these affect authenticity and connection. Tracy shares her unique journey into voice coaching and offers practical advice for using one's true voice to enhance engagement and impact in the nonprofit sector, emphasizing that the voice is a powerful tool for genuine connection. Watch on Video!Tracy 's path to becoming a voice coach was both unconventional and compelling. Despite growing up in a household where children were seen and not heard, her natural inclination and skill in vocal expression led her into acting and directing. It was here that she discovered her gift for coaching voices, describing her entry into the field as "kicking and screaming" due to her familial conditioning. This background uniquely positions her to understand the unspoken nuances of voice and how they can be pivotal in representing or misrepresenting one's true self. You’ll discover one of Tracy’s key insights during the show is the idea of "voice masks," a concept she describes with clarity and passion: "Voice masks are like Halloween masks. They are meant to hide our identity but they're invisible. They're just an armor of sound that we pick up and put on in certain circumstances." This analogy strikingly captures how individuals often modify their voice in professional settings or due to insecurities, impacting authentic communication. Tracy goes on to passionately argue that these masks and altered vocal expressions often prevent genuine connections. She illustrates this with an example of a man who altered his voice to prove his worth, inadvertently creating barriers in his business relationships. This invisible armor, she explained, can cost us dearly in terms of connection and authenticity. She also introduces you to the concept of "voice stories," the subconscious scripts that dictate our vocal expressions from a young age, influenced by our environments and experiences.  Tracy’s approach is to unearth these stories, helping individuals reconnect with their true vocal identity and thereby enhance their communicative impact. This revealing discussion is not just theoretical; it is full of practical implications, especially for the nonprofit sector, where communication plays a crucial role in fundraising and community engagement.  You’ll find Tracy’s advice clear and actionable, nudging you to embrace your own authentic voices rather than conform to perceived expectations.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

Our guest introduces a nine-part "marketing sound system" that includes a compelling story framework and strategies for amplifying nonprofit messaging effectively. His insights emphasize the importance of clarity, consistency, and the power of storytelling in engaging nonprofit donors and standing out in the crowded  and competitive nonprofit sector. This episode provides valuable strategies for nonprofits looking to boost their marketing and communications efforts. Watch on Video!Anthony Dicks, Jr., from 180 Management Group, begins the discussion by metaphorically describing marketing as akin to handling a sound system—a complex yet essential tool for amplifying messages in a noisy environment. Drawing from his childhood experience assisting his preacher father with church sound systems, Anthony points to the key to understanding and managing various elements of a sound system to enhance communication effectiveness. He offers a nine-part "marketing sound system" that includes components like a compelling story framework, a sounding board for idea validation, amplifiers to boost signal, equalizers to balance message delivery, and speakers to clearly issue calls to action. Anthony encapsulates the essence of his marketing philosophy: "A whole lot of marketing is like managing a sound system. First, you want to overcome the noise that's already in the market, but in order to do that, you need a sound system. And by sound system, I just don't mean the mixer. I mean a system that is sound in how you generate your messages, how you release those messages, how you manage those messages really contribute to how it is you amplify that message." Anthony goes on to elaborate on the need for nonprofits to craft a marketing strategy that resonates clearly and consistently with their target audience. He stresses the importance of frequency and clarity in messaging, noting that clear, consistent messages more effectively penetrate market noise and resonate with intended audiences. Additionally, he underscores the power of storytelling in marketing, advocating for narratives that feature a hero overcoming significant obstacles, thereby providing hope and inspiration to potential donors and stakeholders. This lively conversation also touches upon the strategic use of digital platforms and media to reach specific demographics, emphasizing the importance of aligning message delivery channels with the preferences and habits of the target audience.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 this lively edition of "Ask and Answer Friday", nonprofit experts Meico Marquette Whitlock and Muhi Khwaja bring forward their insightful answers to questions about nonprofit management and operating strategies.  Watch on Video!  Topics covered include; Marcus from Minneapolis opens the dialogue by asking for strategies to encourage a program officer from a large funder to visit their campus, aiming to forge a stronger relationship. The response focuses on ways to enhance engagement with the funder, suggesting that understanding the funder’s hesitations and exploring various methods of showcasing the campus, including virtual tours, could be effective. Maya from Dallas questioned the effectiveness of traditional snail mail campaigns versus digital approaches for their next holiday season fundraising efforts. The hosts debate the merits of each method, with suggestions to blend digital and physical outreach methods effectively to maximize donor engagement and response rates. Shania from Oklahoma City brought up concerns about the relevance of continuing an "Employee of the Month" program in a now predominantly work-from-home environment. The conversation veered towards the value of maintaining recognition and morale in remote settings, suggesting steps to personalize acknowledgments and maintaining the essence of appreciation regardless of the medium. Ramon from Miami seeks advice on how nonprofit boards could advocate for children's mental health without jeopardizing their 501C3 status. The hosts elaborate on the importance of educating rather than lobbying state legislators, stressing the importance of forming relationships and utilizing educational outreach as a primary tool for advocacy. An anonymous question from Oakland describes a sensitive issue regarding a CEO's request for employees to donate to their nonprofit to show 100% employee participation. The hosts debate the ethical considerations and practical implications of such requests, emphasizing the need to balance organizational goals with respect for individual financial circumstances.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

Key strategies for nonprofit fundraising during election cycles. Highlighting data from past elections, Shanna Birky, VP with Classy.org, reassures nonprofits that fundraising can thrive even amid the political frenzy. Shanna outlines the importance of adapting communication and event timing to avoid clashing with major political events, advocating for rapid response strategies and proactive donor engagement to capitalize on increased public interest during elections. Her expert advice encourages nonprofits to maintain confidence in their missions and strategically navigate the heightened media landscape to boost donor outreach and impact. Watch on Video!With over 15 years at Classy, a platform supporting digital fundraising for nonprofits, Shanna offered deep insights into navigating fundraising strategies during election cycles, a period typically viewed with trepidation by nonprofit organizations. Shanna spoke to the resilience of fundraising activities during election years, noting that data from the past eight election cycles, excluding the Great Recession period, showed consistent growth in fundraising. This historical perspective helps alleviate the fear that elections might stifle donor contributions. She describes that while elections might dominate media attention, nonprofits should not shy away from their missions. Instead, they should adjust their communication strategies and timing to maintain donor engagement. A key aspect of Shanna’s discussion centered on the tactical adjustments nonprofits might consider during election years. She advises avoiding launching major campaigns or events close to election dates due to the intense competition for public attention. Instead, she suggests focusing on periods less cluttered with political events, potentially leveraging the heightened public engagement for positive impact. Shanna also introduced the concept of "rapid response strategies" which are crucial during high-visibility periods like elections. These strategies enable organizations to quickly mobilize resources and capture the surge in public interest that elections often generate. Such responsiveness ensures that nonprofits remain relevant and effective in their missions, despite the external noise. Another key strategy discussed was addressing the shifts in donor behavior during elections. Nonprofits might observe that donors allocate funds differently, splitting between charitable causes and political contributions. Early and ongoing engagement with donors, especially high net worth individuals, is crucial to securing their support before they commit funds elsewhere. Shanna encapsulated her message with a powerful quote: "It's so important to still feel confident in your message. But maybe even go a step further. How are you communicating that impact? What is that story that you are telling?" . . . . .underscoring the need for nonprofits to communicate effectively and compellingly during politically charged times, ensuring their message resonates deeply with both existing and potential donors.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

True strategic leadership at nonprofits extends beyond having a mission statement; it involves setting clear priorities, effectively communicating these to the team, and ensuring actions align with organizational goals. Watch on Video!  Learn more about the critical importance of strategic leadership in nonprofit organizations, with Beth Larsen, Vice President of Client Experience at JMT Consulting, as she highlights the necessity of being consumer-focused and responsive to the shifting demands of the environment in which nonprofits operate. This quick tempo interview offers actionable insights on integrating strategic priorities into daily operations, which can enhance your nonprofit’s effectiveness and boost the alignment with the needs of those you are serving. Beth begins with a fundamental concern that resonates across the sector: "There is almost exclusively more demand than there is resource and capacity to meet that demand.", pointing to the challenge faced by nonprofits — balancing limited resources with ever-expanding needs. Beth describes how strategic leadership is not solely about planning or vision-setting; it is about integrating these plans into daily operations and ensuring that every team member understands their role in moving the organization forward. She speaks to the importance of having a "clear common purpose" and the ability to articulate what success looks like for the team, which can dramatically shift how each member contributes to the organization’s 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

On this second part of a two-part series, you’ll learn about the critical differences between IRS classifications like 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) and understand the strategic roles of nonprofit board committees in governance and operational oversight and hear about the importance of strategic planning and succession management, with Ellie Hume, from Your Part-Time Controller (YPTC.com).  She offers quite extensive advice on compliance, effective ways to show leadership, and engage board members in meaningful nonprofit governance. Ellie begins by describing a common oversight among nonprofit boards: the assumption of knowledge regarding IRS classifications and the implications for organizational operations. "Right, you have to understand what you can and you can't do. And there definitely are definitions for these things," she asserts, highlighting the perils of ignorance in these regulatory nuances and setting the stage for the broader discussion on board diligence. The conversation covers several critical areas that boards often neglect but are essential for effective governance. First, Ellie addresses the complexity of IRS status, particularly the differences between 501(c)(3) organizations and other classifications like 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6). Each category has specific restrictions and permissions, notably in terms of lobbying and tax-deductible contributions, which can significantly influence fundraising efforts and public engagement strategies. Continuing, the dialogue, hosted by Julia Patrick,  shifts towards the operational involvement of the board through committees, with Ellie emphasizing that serving on a nonprofit board should be treated with the professionalism of a job, where members engage deeply with specialized committees. These bodies play a crucial role in governance, financial oversight, and program management, ensuring that the organization sticks to its mission and compliance requirements. Strategic planning also emerges as a pivotal theme in this episode. Ellis criticizes the disconnect between boards and executive teams regarding who should initiate and develop strategic plans. She argues for a collaborative approach, where both sides actively participate in shaping the organization's future. This cooperative strategy ensures that plans are not only visionary but also practically funded and aligned with long-term organizational objectives. Ellie also covers the importance of succession planning and sustainability, pointing out the frequent disconnects that can occur without proactive and inclusive planning efforts. These aspects are crucial for long-term stability and adapting to leadership transitions without disrupting the nonprofit's mission or operations. From all this, Ellie hopes the viewers will realize that nonprofit governance is an intricate tapestry of compliance, strategic foresight, and active participation, where assumptions can be risky.  And Boards must embrace a holistic approach to governance to ensure the things they do and strategies they take are as informed and forward-looking as the missions they serve.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 nonprofit expert Ellie Hume--the critical responsibilities of nonprofit boards. Part one of two. Discover the five key areas that boards must diligently monitor: mission statement clarity, robust governance, financial oversight, active involvement in fundraising, and strict management of conflicts of interest. Learn why continuous education and open dialogue are vital for board members to effectively uphold their duties and ensure organizational success. In the latest episode of "The Nonprofit Show," Ellie Hume from YPTC gives a look into the vital aspects that nonprofit boards must consistently monitor. The discussion, hosted by Julia Patrick, highlights the importance of continual engagement and education for board members, especially in understanding their roles and responsibilities. Ellie begins by explaining that board members often don't realize the depth of their responsibilities and the importance of not taking their roles for granted. . . .saying, "You have to assume [board members] really don't know, and they're afraid to ask questions." A key point Ellie makes is the importance of board members being fully aware and articulate about the organization's mission statement, suggesting that every board meeting should start with the mission statement being read and discussed, to reinforce its importance and ensure all members are aligned with the mission. Governance was another significant topic. Ellie points out how boards must not only understand their legal responsibilities but actively ensure the nonprofit adheres to its mission and governance standards. This involves regular reviews and updates, as she directs that governance is not a one-time discussion but an ongoing dialogue. Financial oversight is critical, as Ellie highlights a common issue: board members often lack the financial literacy required to effectively review and question the financial statements presented to them. This gap can lead to oversight failures.  There is a need for the nonprofit’s finance professionals to present information in an accessible, understandable manner, and not ignore the likely need for financial education for board members. Fundraising and philanthropy are also areas where board members should be more actively involved, not leaving the responsibility solely to the organization's staff. Ellie offers that board members should contribute to funding, reflecting on their duty to ensure the organization is well-resourced. Lastly, speaks about how the management of conflicts of interest (COI) is vital, stating that board members must disclose any potential conflicts not just annually but as they arise. She emphasized the importance of transparency and the necessity for members to recuse themselves from decisions where a conflict exists.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

A lively talk about maintaining a culture of philanthropy within nonprofits, covering the importance of communication, transparency, and ethical practice in all fundraising efforts. This engaging Ask & Answer episode highlights the evolving nature of nonprofit fundraising and the ongoing commitment to ethical practices within the sector.  Jack Alotto, a seasoned expert in nonprofit fundraising, shares his enthusiasm about the increasing participation in his CFRE (Certified Fundraising Executive) training programs, noting that the numbers remain high with classes reaching around 170 participants. He describes a new initiative tailored for Muslim-affiliated nonprofits, reflecting the inclusive approach of the training sessions. This enjoyable learning episode focuses mainly on the ethical dilemmas fundraisers often face. Jack emphasizes the importance of adhering to ethical standards, especially when dealing with competitive situations between nonprofits, advising against disparaging other organizations, stressing that the goal should be to enhance the entire community's well-being rather than focusing solely on individual success. This approach aligns with the AFP (Association of Fundraising Professionals) code of ethics, which promotes integrity and respect among fundraising professionals. One of Jack's statements from the episode encapsulates his philosophy on this issue: "I am reluctant to engage in a conversation which would disparage another nonprofit... we should continue to talk about the benefits of giving to our organization and the importance of making a gift to advance our mission. It's OK if they also want to give to another organization doing similar work. It just makes the whole community much better."  With input from host Julia Patrick, the episode explores the role of ethics in donor relations, with Jack advocating for the inclusion of the AFP code of ethics in donor packets to educate and align expectations with donors.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

Expert strategies for planning successful volunteer appreciation events with insights from Melissa Pinard, Head of Product Management at Bloomerang Volunteer. Learn how to effectively recognize and engage your volunteers, seamlessly integrate them into your donor campaigns, and use data-driven approaches to highlight their impact. This comprehensive discussion offers best practices on organizing appreciation events that honor and support volunteers' dedication and foster deeper connections within your non-profit.  Improve your volunteer management techniques and celebrate your volunteers in a way that boosts retention and encourages their ongoing contribution to your cause. Melissa, having a decade-long experience in volunteer management, discussed the often-overlooked potential of volunteers as crucial donors to their causes, given their established commitment and passion. Melissa describes how volunteers frequently transition into donors because they are already deeply connected to the cause, a point often missed in non-profit management. "Statistics show volunteers give more because they're already passionate about the cause that they are giving their time to; a majority of them are actually already giving their dollars too," she noted, highlighting a big opportunity for non-profits to nurture these dual-role contributors. During the interview, Melissa outlines best practices for integrating volunteer and donor management, suggesting that volunteers should not be excluded from fundraising campaigns. She points out the importance of recognizing volunteers not only for their time but also for their potential financial contributions. "There's no reason why you should exclude them from the email campaigns, in that sense as well," Melissa explains, advocating for inclusive communication strategies that engage volunteers across all organizational activities. The fast-paced discussion also digs into the specifics of volunteer appreciation. Melissa advises against using the existing volunteer pool to organize appreciation events, suggesting instead that staff members or paid employees take on this role to ensure the event is genuinely appreciative and not an additional burden to volunteers. She details how to effectively use data and storytelling to demonstrate the impact of volunteers, enhancing their engagement and emotional investment in the organization. Continuing, Melissa points to the importance of public acknowledgment and the strategic use of social media to celebrate and recognize volunteers' efforts, not only boosting their morale but also promoting the organization's cause through visible affiliations and endorsements by volunteers. Watch on Video!Learn more: www.bloomerang.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

A vibrant conversation with Mike Geiger, President and CEO of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).  You’ll discover how Geiger's career, marked by unexpected opportunities and strategic pivots, exemplifies the dynamic nature of nonprofit leadership. Learn about AFP's huge role in enhancing fundraising practices, its commitment to ethical standards, and its proactive approach to addressing the quickly evolving needs of fundraisers and philanthropy.  Mike shares valuable perspectives on embracing technological changes and preparing for future trends in giving. Mike’s career trajectory, sprinkled with serendipitous turns, highlights a journey not guided by a rigid plan but by grabbing opportunities that aligned with his ethos. He amusingly recounted, "I wasn't planning on getting my MBA, but then I did," illustrating how unplanned paths often lead to fulfilling destinations. Mike, who also holds a CPA, points us to the importance of flexibility and openness in professional growth. He pointed out, "Being open, having a growth mindset, and when there's opportunities that fit into what your life ethos is, then you take those." This mindset has seen him evolve from pursuing advanced degrees to dedicating his career to the nonprofit sector, demonstrating an adaptive journey fueled by unexpected yet welcome shifts. At the heart of this discussion is AFP's role as a cornerstone in the fundraising community, boasting nearly 30,000 members and around 200 chapters globally. Mike proudly explained the organization's mission, "We provide education on best practices, we focus on improving the skills that our members have in the fundraising area but also in other areas." He stresses the multifaceted roles fundraisers often play, whilst highlighting the critical need for continuous professional development. Continuing, Mikes digs into the evolving landscape of fundraising, particularly how technological advancements and changing demographics are shaping new strategies. The conversation  touches on AFP's ethical framework, foundational since 1960, which continues to guide fundraisers in their professional conduct. Mike offers an optimistic view of the future of fundraising, citing research predicting a rebound in philanthropic giving. He spends time explaining the importance of adapting to the philanthropic inclinations of younger generations like millennials and Gen Z, who are poised to play a significant role in future giving trends. This learning episode is a compelling blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, offering a window into the agile and ever-evolving world of nonprofit management and fundraising.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