The Hidden Power Dynamics Inside Nonprofits (and How to Use Yours) episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 15, 2026 · 34 MIN

The Hidden Power Dynamics Inside Nonprofits (and How to Use Yours)

from Burnout & Breakthroughs: The High's Lows, and Healing of Working in Service

Why do some people get labeled "passionate" for pushing back while others get called "aggressive" for the exact same behavior? This episode unpacks the privilege and power operating in nonprofit spaces, plus actionable ways to use whatever influence you have to create real change.From boardrooms to program design meetings, power shapes every aspect of our work in ways we don't realize. We explore why "good intentions" don't protect you from harm, how white supremacy culture shows up as "professionalism," why brilliant ideas get ignored while others get praised, and what to do about it.You'll learn how to:Recognize when "professionalism" is actually gatekeeping based on race and classIdentify the power you hold even without a fancy title—and use it strategicallyRedirect credit and amplify voices that usually get ignoredCall out bias without getting labeled as "difficult" or "divisive"Spot when you're benefiting from systems you claim to opposeFeatured Researchers: Paul Kivel, Patricia Hill Collins, Building Movement Project's Race to Lead research, Tema Okun, Kimberlé Crenshaw, Loretta Pyles, Frank Omowale Satterwhite, Göran McGonagill and Claire Reinelt, and INCITE! Women of Color Against Violence,

NOW PLAYING

The Hidden Power Dynamics Inside Nonprofits (and How to Use Yours)

0:00 34:13

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Burnout & Breakthroughs: The High's Lows, and Healing of Working in Service?

This episode is 34 minutes long.

When was this Burnout & Breakthroughs: The High's Lows, and Healing of Working in Service episode published?

This episode was published on January 15, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Why do some people get labeled "passionate" for pushing back while others get called "aggressive" for the exact same behavior? This episode unpacks the privilege and power operating in nonprofit spaces, plus actionable ways to use whatever influence...

Can I download this Burnout & Breakthroughs: The High's Lows, and Healing of Working in Service episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!