Nonprofits Are Messy: Lessons in Leadership | Fundraising | Board Development | Communications

From the Atlanta spa shootings to ongoing challenges, Deepa Iyer highlights the critical need for infrastructure, relationship-building, and centering the voices of affected communities in times of crisis.

Whether you’re grappling with turbulent times or striving for greater impact, these strategies will help you navigate 2025 with clarity and purpose. Join me for a conversation that will leave you inspired, equipped, and ready to take on the year ahead. Let’s buckle up and face this journey together.

Nonprofit leaders often feel overwhelmed by endless tasks, but project management guru, Christie Machorek, shares insights about how to transform chaos into clarity. With simple strategies like celebrating wins and debriefing after projects, she shows how to create systems that free up time to focus on what truly matters.

Glennda Testone, CEO of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab and former leader at the LGBT Community Center of NYC, joins the discussion to reflect on key lessons from 2024. They delve into navigating leadership transitions and remote work challenges. Personal health and succession planning take center stage, often provoking thoughtful dialogue. The conversation also covers the importance of advocacy in nonprofits, the complexities of DEI, and the necessity of self-care for leaders facing an unpredictable future.

Bianca Anderson and Lamisa Mustafa join me in a conversation about shifting the stereotypes and misconceptions about Gen Z. Whether you're grappling with workforce challenges or striving to lead inclusively, this episode will equip you with insights and tools to turn generational differences into an asset.

Iara Peng, a serial entrepreneur and CEO of JustFund, shares her mission to transform philanthropy by equalizing and simplifying the giving process. She discusses the power of storytelling in marginalized communities and emphasizes the urgent need for social justice infrastructure. Iara highlights how unrestricted grants can change lives and the importance of trust between funders and applicants. She also dives into nonprofit innovation and the confidence required for effective leadership, advocating for embracing risk as a pathway to meaningful change.

Seth Chalmer, Senior Director of Communications at Leading Edge, shares his expertise on crisis management in the nonprofit sector. He discusses how leaders can effectively engage with controversial societal issues amidst polarization. Seth emphasizes the importance of crafting clear internal and external messaging to enhance organizational resilience. He also covers the delicate balance of adopting public stances on contentious topics, aligning advocacy with core values, and fostering open conversations that lead to productive outcomes.

Discover how nonprofit leaders can thrive in polarized environments. Learn practical strategies for engaging in courageous conversations and managing conflict. Explore the vital role of nonprofits in fostering dialogue and resilience within communities. The discussion includes emotional balance and accountability in leadership, emphasizing self-reflection and aligning decisions with personal values. Gain insights into preserving organizational practices during crises while nurturing team dynamics and fostering a culture of care.

Jamila Hodge, Executive Director of Equal Justice USA, and Mikaela Levons, Chief Development Officer, shed light on the unique challenges faced by BIPOC fundraisers. They discuss how race and lived experiences shape fundraising strategies and leadership styles. The duo highlights the systemic biases in nonprofit practices that hinder access for marginalized communities. They also emphasize the resilience of women of color, the importance of authenticity, and the need for inclusive environments to drive meaningful change in fundraising.

Michael Thatcher, the CEO of Charity Navigator, dives into the world of nonprofit fundraising and donor engagement. He discusses how organizations can move beyond outdated metrics and build trust with donors through data. Michael emphasizes the need for nonprofits to adapt their strategies to meet evolving donor expectations, especially younger generations. He also highlights the importance of equity in charity evaluations and the role of professional development for nonprofit leaders in fostering donor trust. This conversation is a treasure trove of insights for today's fundraising landscape!