Lead for Good: A Conversation with Betsy Biern - Episode 11

In this episode of Lead for Good, host Chris Looney sits down with Betsy Biern, CEO of Make-A-Wish Greater Bay Area, for a thoughtful and energizing conversation on nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and building high-performing boards. Betsy shares her leadership journey, shaped early by a deep commitment to community and service, and reinforced through powerful experiences with donors, mentors, and mission-driven organizations. From her passion for fundraising as a deeply human and values-driven partnership, to her reflections on legacy, impact, and purpose, Betsy offers a compelling perspective on what it truly means to lead in the nonprofit sector. A central focus of the episode is board engagement and accountability. Betsy unpacks practical strategies for setting clear expectations, onboarding board members with intention, and creating individualized “impact plans” that align each member’s strengths, interests, and capacity with the organization’s mission. She also shares how tools like scorecards, consistent communication, and peer-to-peer accountability can transform board performance from a drain on resources into a powerful engine for mission advancement. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights, including: How to shift from “asking” to inviting people into meaningful philanthropic partnerships Why curiosity is one of the most important leadership traits in fundraising and governance How to structure board expectations and accountability without creating a punitive culture The importance of consistent communication, recognition, and clarity in driving engagement Why nonprofit CEOs should prioritize board leadership as a core part of their role Betsy’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: lead with invitation, stay deeply curious, and keep the mission at the center of everything. Whether you are a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode provides practical tools and inspiration to help you strengthen your leadership and elevate your organization’s impact. Tune in for a conversation that will challenge your thinking, sharpen your approach, and equip you to lead for good.