The Nonprofit Edge: A Conversation with Nathan Chappell - Episode 2

In this episode of The Nonprofit Edge, host Chris Looney welcomes Nathan Chappell for a wide ranging and deeply practical conversation about artificial intelligence, leadership, and the future of philanthropy. Nathan, Chief AI Officer at Virtuous and co author of The Generosity Crisis and Nonprofit AI, has been exploring AI in the nonprofit sector since long before it was mainstream. In this conversation, he explains why leaders can no longer afford to sit on the sidelines. Key highlights from this episode: • Why the “generosity crisis” and the reality of fewer donors giving more demand a new approach • The difference between predictive AI and generative AI, and why both matter for nonprofit strategy • How AI is already transforming fundraising through smarter donor identification, engagement based modeling, and personalized stewardship • Why wealth alone is a weak predictor of giving, and what AI reveals about alignment and engagement • Practical ways leaders can use AI as a thought partner to improve strategy, brainstorming, performance reviews, job descriptions, and more • The surprising emotional and productivity benefits leaders experience when using AI as a collaborative tool • Why curiosity is the defining leadership trait in an AI powered future, and how to build a culture that encourages experimentation • Real world examples of nonprofits using AI creatively and ethically to amplify mission impact • The importance of AI governance, acceptable use guidelines, and keeping humans in the loop • Common barriers to adoption, including fear, fatigue, and resistance to change, and how forward thinking organizations are overcoming them Nathan challenges leaders to stop viewing AI as a novelty or threat and instead see it as a strategic lever for mission advancement. He makes the case that the organizations thriving today are not necessarily spending more money on technology. They are changing the way they think. Whether you are exploring AI for the first time or looking to scale your organization’s capabilities, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and a roadmap for leading with insight in an age of exponential change. Listen in and discover how to position your organization on the right side of the digital divide and at the forefront of nonprofit leadership.