

The Smart Communications Podcast
Big Duck
The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 10, 2024 • 22min
Episode 152: How do you get messaging to take hold within your organization?
Join Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Jennifer R. Hudson, president of Think Beyond Public Relations, as they discuss how nonprofit staff can create messaging that gets people to engage with that organization's mission. Together they discuss important frameworks on developing messages that bring in perspectives of all stakeholders and offer tips about training others and operationalizing core values.

Dec 20, 2023 • 25min
Episode 151: Why and how are nonprofits diversifying their donors?
Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Funmilayo Brown, founder and CEO of Layo Philanthropic Partners chat about redefining philanthropy for people of color and how nonprofits can effectively use communications to attract and engage their donors.

Dec 6, 2023 • 23min
Episode 150: How can you navigate the highs and lows of the naming journey?
Farra Trompeter and Liz Ricca, co-directors, explore the emotional nuances of changing a nonprofit's name and break down six highs and lows of the journey.

Nov 22, 2023 • 23min
Episode 149: How can you bring accessibility and inclusion into your communications?
Farra Trompeter is joined by Kerry Thompson, senior advisor for inclusion and accessibility at the Disability Rights Fund and the Disability Rights Advocacy Fund, to discuss the significance of incorporating accessibility and inclusion in your nonprofit communications and sheds light on how she is designing DRF's internal processes, policies, and practices to serve as an example for other organizations.

Nov 8, 2023 • 21min
Episode 148: What do nonprofits need to know about AI and data science?
Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Dr. Ashutosh Nandeshwar, senior vice president of data science and analytics at CCS Fundraising to talk about how nonprofits should approach AI, various use cases, and practical tips that nonprofits can use to determine how it can work for your organization.

Oct 25, 2023 • 23min
Episode 147: How do you hire for a strong communications team?
How do you hire for a strong communications team? Co-directors, Farra Trompeter and Elizabeth Ricca zoom out and talk about communications in general, why nonprofits are investing more now in how they structure their communications teams, and talk through four questions to guide your next communications hire.

Oct 11, 2023 • 23min
Episode 146: What's your next move on social media?
Julia Campbell, an author, speaker, and host of the Nonprofit Nation Podcast, dives into the world of social media for nonprofits. She shares her transition from journalism to consulting, emphasizing the evolution of digital storytelling. Julia discusses the shift from promotional tactics to genuine community engagement and highlights successful strategies used by organizations like the Malala Fund. Listeners learn the importance of first impressions and branding while uncovering three key questions to elevate their social media presence.

Sep 27, 2023 • 28min
Episode 145: How should you approach GivingTuesday?
Farra Trompeter, co-director of a nonprofit organization, and Abby Jarvis, Senior Content Marketing Manager, discuss the evolution of GivingTuesday from a small initiative to a global generosity celebration. They highlight innovative fundraising strategies and the diversity of perspectives within the nonprofit sector. The duo delves into effective email tactics, emphasizing engaging subject lines and timing for maximum donor impact. Authentic storytelling and relationship-building are championed as essential for fostering community engagement and enhancing the overall spirit of generosity.

Sep 13, 2023 • 31min
Episode 144: How can communications help you recruit and engage board members?
Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Rob Acton, founder and CEO, and Erin Pierson, director of strategic growth, from Cause Strategy Partners to discuss how to engage board members in marketing and communications from recruitment through board service to alumni status.

Aug 16, 2023 • 23min
Episode 143: How can you manage change?
Farra Trompeter, co-director, sits down with Mara Mintz, consultant, and account lead, and Caitlin Corda, head of marketing, brand, and business development, from Blue Beyond Consulting to discuss the importance of change management for nonprofits, especially those going through branding, major campaigns, or strategic planning.