Lead for Good

From borrowing $50 and selling Rice Krispie bars at quarterly bake sales to leading a nonprofit organization that now generates more than $1 million annually through a single auction event, Billy Henry shares one of the most inspiring grassroots nonprofit growth stories you will hear. In this episode of Lead for Good, Billy reflects on founding the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes at just 15 years old while navigating life as someone who is legally blind himself. What began as a desire to participate in powerlifting alongside friends evolved into a nationally respected organization serving children, youth, adults, and veterans who are blind or visually impaired across the United States. This conversation goes far beyond fundraising tactics. Billy shares practical leadership lessons on scaling with intention, building authentic community relationships, engaging volunteers, developing a culture of philanthropy, stewarding donors well, and staying relentlessly focused on mission while growing organizational complexity. Key themes explored in this episode include: • Scaling a grassroots organization from bake sales to a $1.1M auction • Building momentum through community engagement and relationship development • Why major gifts and donor relationships transformed fundraising growth • The importance of humility, resilience, and adaptability in nonprofit leadership • How storytelling strengthens donor engagement and organizational growth • Creating a healthy organizational culture while avoiding burnout • Why mission alignment must always outweigh growth for growth’s sake • Practical advice for nonprofit leaders intimidated by fundraising or scaling efforts Billy also shares candid reflections about setbacks, leadership evolution, the realities of sustaining nonprofit growth, and the importance of continually becoming the leader the organization needs next. This episode is a powerful reminder that transformational organizations are often built slowly, intentionally, and relationally through trust, consistency, vision, and leaders willing to keep showing up for the people they serve. #LeadForGood #NonprofitLeadership #Fundraising #Philanthropy #Leadership #Nonprofit #MajorGifts #CommunityLeadership #VolunteerLeadership #MissionDriven #FundraisingEvents #BoardLeadership #NonprofitGrowth #Podcast

Cybersecurity is no longer a side conversation for nonprofit organizations. It is a core leadership and governance responsibility. In this episode of The Nonprofit Edge Podcast, Chris Looney sits down with Jeff Steadman of RSM for a practical and timely discussion on fiduciary duty in the digital age. Together, they explore why nonprofit leaders and boards must now think differently about cybersecurity, operational resilience, digital stewardship, and organizational risk. The conversation examines the growing threats nonprofit organizations face today, including ransomware, business email compromise, third-party vendor vulnerabilities, and the emerging risks associated with AI. Jeff also shares actionable guidance nonprofit leaders can implement immediately, including the importance of multi-factor authentication, incident response planning, employee training, and properly managing access controls. Key topics include: • Why cybersecurity is now directly tied to financial stewardship • The evolving responsibilities of nonprofit boards and executives • Common cyber threats impacting nonprofit organizations • How auditors are increasingly evaluating digital environments and IT controls • Why inventorying systems, access, and vendors matters • The importance of employee awareness and training • AI, deepfakes, and the future of organizational risk • Practical first steps nonprofit leaders can take today One of the most important reminders from the conversation: Protecting systems is ultimately about protecting mission, trust, donors, and the communities organizations serve. This episode is essential listening for nonprofit executives, board members, advancement leaders, finance professionals, and mission-driven organizations navigating today’s increasingly digital landscape. Check out the full episode on YouTube with this link: https://youtu.be/s1PGwPFGOrM

Leadership is not something you take. It’s something you give. In this powerful episode of Lead for Good, we sit down with Edward Amey for a deeply practical and inspiring conversation about how nonprofit leaders can build genuine loyalty within their organizations in ways that develop future leaders, reduce turnover, and dramatically strengthen mission outcomes. Edward shares his remarkable personal leadership journey, including the teacher who once told him he would “never amount to anything” and the transformational educator who changed the trajectory of his life by believing in his potential. That experience shaped a leadership philosophy centered on listening, investing in people, humility, accountability, and creating environments where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. Throughout the conversation, Edward offers tangible strategies leaders can implement immediately, including: • Why loyalty must be built around mission and values, not personalities • How listening creates trust, retention, and leadership growth • The connection between employee loyalty and stronger client outcomes • Practical ways to reduce turnover and create a healthier organizational culture • How feedback, recognition, and leadership development transform teams • Why leaders must create safe environments where people can speak honestly • The importance of humility, self-reflection, and succession planning • How investing in people ultimately strengthens the mission itself Edward also shares extraordinary real-world examples from his leadership at Jay Nolan Community Services, including how frontline employee feedback led to changes in benefits design, how internal leadership development created future organizational leaders, and why organizations that truly listen to their people create lasting impact. This episode is a masterclass in servant leadership, culture building, and the idea that people thrive when leaders genuinely invest in them.

In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Ronnetta Johnson for a thoughtful and deeply relevant conversation about leading teams through emotionally heavy work while sustaining personal resilience as a leader. Drawing from more than three decades of nonprofit leadership and her experience leading Waymakers, Ronnetta shares practical wisdom on how leaders can support their teams with empathy without sacrificing accountability, clarity, or their own well-being. Throughout the conversation, Ronnetta explores the realities of leading people who work in crisis-centered environments and explains why nonprofit leadership requires far more than task management. She discusses the importance of psychological safety, healthy boundaries, intentional debriefing, and recognizing the warning signs of emotional overload before burnout takes hold. She also offers powerful insights into servant leadership, resilience, gratitude, emotional regulation, and the responsibility leaders have to model healthy behavior for their teams. Key themes from this episode include: • Leading teams when the work carries emotional weight • Balancing compassion with accountability • Recognizing signs of burnout in yourself and others • Building resilient and emotionally healthy organizational cultures • Creating sustainable leadership practices and boundaries • Supporting people without carrying their burdens for them • Why self-care is essential, not selfish, for nonprofit leaders One of the most impactful moments of the episode comes when Ronnetta shares this perspective: “We shift from believing people need us to carry their burden to understanding they need us to support them while they carry it.” This conversation is an essential listen for nonprofit leaders, executives, managers, and anyone seeking to lead people with wisdom, empathy, and sustainability in demanding environments.

Lead for Good Podcast | John Kobara: Getting Unstuck, Rediscovering Purpose, and Leading with Proximity What does it really mean to feel stuck as a leader and more importantly, how do you move forward with clarity, energy, and purpose? In this powerful episode of Lead for Good, host Chris Looney sits down with longtime nonprofit leader and thought partner John Kobara for a deeply reflective and practical conversation on what it takes to get unstuck in leadership and life. Drawing on decades of experience in philanthropy, coaching, and organizational leadership, John challenges conventional thinking and offers a refreshing perspective on purpose, resilience, and impact. At the heart of the conversation is a simple but transformative idea: proximity matters. John shares why the most effective leaders stay close to the people, communities, and realities they serve and how distance from that truth is often what leads to disconnection and stuckness. Together, Chris and John explore: Why feeling stuck is not a failure, but a natural and necessary part of leadership The hidden dangers of certainty and outdated assumptions How misalignment between expectations and reality creates frustration and stagnation The role of purpose as a source of energy, not just inspiration Practical ways to reconnect with what truly matters, including reflection, writing, and stillness A simple but powerful framework to reset in moments of stress: Stop. Breathe. Notice. Reflect. Respond. John also introduces a mindset shift that can change everything: the obstacle is the way. Instead of avoiding challenges, great leaders move toward them with curiosity and openness, using them as a path to growth and clarity. Whether you are leading an organization, building a fundraising program, or navigating your own career journey, this episode offers both grounding wisdom and actionable insights to help you move forward with intention. If you’ve been feeling stuck, this conversation is a reminder that you are not alone and that what you’re experiencing may be the very signal that something meaningful is ready to change. Listen now and rediscover what it means to lead with purpose, energy, and impact.

Lead for Good with Burgandie Kuuipo Onekea Episode Title: Confusion Is Expensive: The Leadership Discipline of Clarity In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Burgandie Kuuipo Onekea, Chief Regional Officer and Executive Director of Junior Achievement of Southern California, for a candid and deeply practical conversation about one of the most underused leadership advantages in the nonprofit sector: clarity. With more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Burgandie shares lessons from her journey from fundraising at March of Dimes in Hawaii to executive leadership roles with the American Cancer Society and now Junior Achievement. Along the way, she discovered a powerful truth: many of the problems leaders attribute to people, culture, or performance are often rooted in something far more basic and far more costly, a lack of clarity. In this episode, you will learn: • Why confusion is expensive and how it silently drains time, morale, trust, and momentum • The warning signs that your team or board may be operating without clarity • How unclear expectations, not disengagement, often cause boards to pull back • The difference between verification and micromanagement • Practical steps leaders can take immediately to strengthen priorities, alignment, and ownership • The one question every CEO should ask their leadership team this quarter Burgandie challenges leaders not to rush to fix people, but to first examine whether priorities, expectations, and pathways to success are truly clear. She explains how clarity builds speed, confidence, ownership, and trust, while reducing second guessing and micromanagement. If you are leading a nonprofit team, serving alongside a board, or navigating underperformance, this conversation will help you rethink where to start. Before assuming culture is broken, ask whether clarity is missing. Unlock performance. Strengthen engagement. Lead with clarity. Subscribe to Lead for Good for more conversations with nonprofit leaders who are truly leading for good.

Every leader will face a moment when the ground shifts. A financial shortfall. A reputational threat. An external shock no one saw coming. The question is never if a crisis will come. It is how you will lead when it does. In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Tom West, Executive Director of Atlanta Ballet, to explore what it truly means to manage through crisis when the stakes are real and the responsibility rests squarely on your shoulders. Tom shares a candid account of navigating a post-pandemic financial crisis that threatened payroll, stability, and long term sustainability. From a seven figure revenue shortfall to a pulled line of credit, he opens up about the weight leaders carry when livelihoods and mission are on the line. In this conversation, you will learn: • How to define a true crisis versus normal turbulence • What leaders must do in the first 24 to 72 hours • Why “work the problem” is more powerful than panic • How transparency builds trust during uncertainty • The critical role of boards in crisis recovery • Why building a strong network may be your best preparation • How crisis can sharpen mission and strengthen strategy Tom offers practical wisdom drawn from decades in arts leadership, including lessons from 9/11, the 2008 recession, COVID, and a multi year cash flow crisis where making payroll came down to days. This is a masterclass in calm, clarity, communication, and courage. If you are leading a nonprofit organization, serving on a board, or preparing for the inevitable storm ahead, this episode will equip you with the mindset and tools to lead with steadiness when it matters most. Listen now and learn how to lead for good, even in the hardest seasons.

Can two CEOs really lead one of the most complex nonprofits in the country? In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Steve Delgado, Co-CEO of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention and re-entry organization in the world. With 10,000 people walking through their doors each year, 16 social enterprises, 300 staff members, and a powerful mission rooted in radical kinship, Homeboy Industries is no small operation. Yet instead of one executive at the top, they chose a shared leadership model. In this conversation, you will discover: Why Homeboy adopted the co-CEO structure as part of intentional succession planning How shared leadership actually works in a large, complex organization The role of humility, patience, and trust in co-leadership Why values alignment is the foundation of independent decision-making How the model strengthens fundraising through a blend of soul and strategy What boards must consider before embracing a co-CEO structure Why Steve believes the nonprofit sector may see a major shift in executive leadership models over the next five years One of the most compelling takeaways? Scaling love and tenderness is at the heart of Homeboy’s next strategic vision. If you are a nonprofit executive, board member, or emerging leader navigating complexity, growth, or succession planning, this episode will challenge the way you think about the CEO role. 🔔 Subscribe for more leadership conversations shaping the future of mission-driven organizations.

Leadership Is Not Meant to Be Lonely with Robin Sinclair In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney welcomes Robin Sinclair, Executive Director of the Fieldstone Leadership Network, for a powerful conversation about camaraderie and connection in nonprofit leadership. Robin reflects on: The moment she was told to “get your running shoes on” and step into leadership Leading during the Great Recession and learning to “act as if” The early loneliness of becoming the boss of former peers How imposter syndrome followed her into her first peer cohort They discuss why nonprofit leaders often feel isolated: You cannot fully confide in your board You protect your staff You may compete for the same funding Revenue is unpredictable Burnout is common but rarely admitted Robin explains how trusted peer cohorts create something different from networking or training. In these spaces, leaders feel validated, heard, refreshed, and supported. Vulnerability happens organically when trust is built intentionally. You will hear why: Culture matters more than control Curiosity is stronger than quick fixes Coaching reduces isolation Camaraderie multiplies impact across entire communities If you are a nonprofit leader searching for clarity, resilience, and connection, this episode offers both encouragement and practical direction. Leadership is not meant to be endured alone.

In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney interviews Art Groeneveld, CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley, about culture, values, and leadership growth. After years of investing in staff development and rebuilding post COVID, BGCHV formalized a new organizational values framework developed by its management team. Art explains how the organization identified four cultural pillars, engaged staff through a values exercise, and is now rolling the framework out across 300 employees. Key themes include: • Leadership growth and self awareness • Connecting personal values to organizational culture • Building trust after crisis • Financial stewardship and donor partnership • Creating career pathways within nonprofit teams • Sustaining culture beyond the initial rollout Art also shares powerful stories about mentorship, humility, service, and why leaders must “not believe their own press releases” while still confidently telling their story. A thoughtful and practical conversation for nonprofit executives, board members, and emerging leaders seeking to build strong, values aligned organizations.

In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney speaks with Jennifer Wise, Vice President for Regional Development in the Southeast for the National MS Society. Jennifer brings more than twenty years of experience in fundraising, volunteer leadership, and organizational development, and she shares a thoughtful look at what it takes to build strong boards and activate them in meaningful ways. Jennifer begins by reflecting on her leadership journey across higher education, Habitat for Humanity, and the MS Society. She highlights the mentors who shaped her, the importance of being both a learner and a teacher, and her commitment to building people centered teams. The conversation then turns to board recruitment, board engagement, and the growing role of boards in corporate relations. Jennifer outlines practical tools and strategies that any nonprofit can adopt, including the use of board matrices, mentorship programs, clear expectations, and intentional systems that help trustees feel confident, connected, and ready to lead. Listeners will hear how her chapters strengthened their work with corporate partners by breaking the process into simple steps, providing clear templates and support, and creating space during board retreats for trustees to take action together. These efforts produced new connections, new partnerships, and a more engaged board culture. Topics include • What strong, balanced boards look like in practice • How to use a board matrix to guide intentional recruitment • The power of mentorship, retreat time, and peer engagement • How mission moments strengthen trustees’ connection to the cause • Why small, specific action steps lead to better board involvement • Building board supported corporate relationships that actually work • How regional collaboration can reduce silos and expand opportunities • Practical advice for organizations hesitant to involve trustees in corporate outreach A grounded and practical episode for any nonprofit aiming to build a stronger, more engaged board and deepen its partnership work with the corporate sector. Listen and subscribe for more conversations on leadership, strategy, and the future of nonprofit work.

This episode of Lead for Good features a thoughtful conversation with Christy Ward, CEO of Share Ourselves, on what it truly takes to develop people inside a nonprofit organization. Christy talks with host Chris Looney about the importance of creating a culture where staff have room to grow, how leaders can provide honest and supportive feedback, and what it looks like when someone is in the right role versus when they may thrive somewhere else. Christy discusses her own leadership journey, the mentors who helped shape her path, and the intentional practices she uses to build strong teams. The conversation covers recruitment and retention, succession planning, career ladders, and the role of leaders in creating an environment where exploration and growth feel possible. Key themes • Developing people as a core responsibility of leadership • Recognizing potential and guiding staff toward roles where they succeed • Addressing performance challenges with clarity and compassion • Creating organizational systems that support long term stability • The positive impact on culture and morale when leaders invest in their teams A great episode for nonprofit executives, managers, emerging leaders, and anyone committed to building healthy organizations.

What does it take to lead a creative organization where artistry, business discipline, and community impact must all coexist? In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney is joined by Lacey Huszcza, President and CEO of the Richmond Symphony, for a thoughtful and practical conversation on leading creative teams. Drawing from her experience as both a musician and nonprofit executive, Lacey shares how effective leadership in the arts requires fluency in both artistic and business languages, deep respect for creative professionals, and a clear commitment to alignment over consensus. Throughout the episode, Lacey explores how leaders can navigate the tension between artistic ambition and financial reality, make difficult decisions when resources are limited, and build organizational alignment without requiring universal agreement. She also discusses the importance of authentic community connection, from commissioning locally rooted works to meeting audiences where they are, both inside and outside the concert hall. Listeners will gain insight into: Balancing artistic integrity with financial sustainability Building alignment without stifling creativity or healthy conflict Engaging communities in meaningful, non performative ways Leading highly skilled, independently minded professionals with clarity and trust Creating space for creativity alongside systems and processes This episode offers valuable lessons not only for arts leaders, but for any nonprofit or mission driven leader guiding talented teams whose work is deeply personal and purpose driven.

In this episode of Lead for Good, nonprofit strategist and executive coach Nancy Batterman shares a rich set of lessons shaped by more than three decades as a CEO and six years of coaching leaders across the sector. Nancy reflects on her early journey in special education, her unexpected rise to leading a large nonprofit organization, and the mentors who shaped her approach to leadership. She emphasizes how confidence, curiosity, and a strong commitment to personal development help leaders grow over time. A major theme throughout the episode is the role of self awareness. Nancy explains how blind spots often hold leaders back more than any external obstacle, and she describes practical ways to identify and address these areas through assessments, coaching, honest conversations, and inviting feedback. She also explores how affirmations, reflection habits, and peer support systems help leaders overcome imposter feelings and build resilience. Nancy also discusses culture building, decision making, and employee engagement. She shares stories from her own leadership tenure, including navigating the 2008 economic crisis, keeping teams aligned during high pressure seasons, and creating environments where staff feel recognized and valued. Her insights highlight that great leadership is both people centered and growth minded, and that leaders must stay grounded in curiosity, care, and consistent learning. If this conversation resonates with you, or if you are looking for a place where nonprofit leaders learn from one another and share real life experience, check out Fulcrum Nonprofit Leadership. Fulcrum brings executives together for peer learning, leadership development, and practical support that helps leaders thrive in their roles and strengthen their organizations.

Lead for Good Podcast: A Conversation with John Kozyra, CEO of Avera Health In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with John Kozyra, CEO of Avera Health in Nebraska. John is known for leading with clarity, compassion, and a long term vision for strengthening community health systems. His leadership has guided major growth initiatives, fostered strong local partnerships, and built a workplace where people feel valued and supported. This conversation explores three essential themes for nonprofit and health care leaders: Growth Strategies and Momentum How to recognize when momentum is strong or slipping, keep teams focused over long time horizons, and balance the pressures of innovation with daily operational demands. Employee Engagement and Making People Feel Valued How to listen well, respond with honesty, create systems that capture real employee experiences, and stay approachable as an executive. Community Engagement and Responsive Leadership How to listen to community voices, align programs with local needs, strengthen trust, and make presence and responsiveness part of a leadership culture. Whether you lead a nonprofit, manage a health system, or guide teams through change, John’s insights offer practical guidance and inspiration. If you find value in this conversation, please subscribe to the Lead for Good podcast and explore our other shows on nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and organizational culture.

🎙️ Thank you, Erin Rank, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles, for joining me on the Lead for Good podcast! In this powerful conversation, Erin shares how her team used the Traction / EOS framework to clarify their vision, align around their core strengths, and strengthen both their leadership and their mission. Her insights on defining an organization’s North Star and building a culture of focus and accountability are lessons every nonprofit leader can learn from. If you’re exploring ways to bring more clarity and cohesion to your team, this episode is a must-listen.

Lead for Good with Rod Hanners: Driving Vision Through Culture, Trust, and Purpose What does it take to lead one of the nation's premier academic health systems through extraordinary growth, rapid change, and constant innovation while keeping people at the center of every decision? In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Rod Hanners, CEO of Keck Medicine of USC, to explore one of the most important responsibilities of leadership: driving vision. Drawing on lessons from an unlikely journey that began as a nuclear submarine officer in the U.S. Navy and evolved into leading world-class healthcare organizations, Rod shares the leadership principles that have shaped his remarkable career. Throughout the conversation, Rod explains why vision cannot exist apart from culture and why trust is the foundation upon which great organizations are built. He discusses how leaders can create alignment across complex organizations, empower teams through collaboration, and maintain a clear sense of direction amid constant change and disruption. Listeners will also gain valuable insights into: • The leadership lessons Rod learned serving aboard a nuclear submarine • Why great leaders don't need all the answers, only the right questions • How culture drives performance and sustains organizational vision • The three pillars of Keck Medicine's leadership culture: positive energy, collaboration, and trust • Why loyalty-based organizations outperform compliance-based organizations • Lessons from leading through the COVID-19 pandemic • How to balance innovation, AI, and data-driven decision-making with compassion and humanity • The importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and servant leadership • Building organizations where people feel valued, empowered, and inspired to do their best work Rod's leadership philosophy is both practical and deeply human. His belief that leadership begins with caring for people offers a powerful reminder that lasting vision is not simply about strategy. It's about creating a culture where people can thrive together. Whether you lead a nonprofit, healthcare organization, foundation, or mission-driven enterprise, this conversation offers wisdom that will challenge, inspire, and equip you to lead more effectively. #LeadForGood #NonprofitLeadership #HealthcareLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #OrganizationalCulture #Trust #Vision #KeckMedicine #USC #ServantLeadership #ExecutiveLeadership #FulcrumNonprofitLeadership

🎧 New Episode Alert: Lead for Good with Baron King, CEO of The CHATT Foundation This week on Lead for Good, we explore what it truly means to lead with psychological awareness and empathy. My guest, Baron King, brings a rare combination of business acumen, clinical insight, and heart. As CEO of The CHATT Foundation, Baron leads an organization dedicated to meeting the most basic needs of hungry, homeless, and vulnerable people—while helping them build a clear path toward self-sufficiency. His leadership reflects a belief that understanding human behavior is not just helpful in leadership—it’s essential. In this conversation, Baron shares how his journey from retail management to psychology to nonprofit leadership has shaped his conviction that every great leader needs a psychological framework. We discuss: How to read the emotional pulse of an organization Ways to build resilience and safety through change Balancing empathy with accountability What it means to “walk with” people on the journey to independence Baron’s perspective is both deeply human and powerfully practical—a reminder that leadership begins with understanding people. Thank you, Baron, for an inspiring and insightful discussion. 🎙️ Tune in to this episode of Lead for Good to learn how psychology can transform leadership and culture from the inside out.

On this episode of the Lead for Good podcast, Corey Dantzler, the Executive Director of the Al Wooten Jr. Youth Center in Los Angeles, shares what leaders need to know when following a founder and how to lead with both respect and innovation. Corey has led the Center for years, guiding it forward after its founder’s passing and carrying on a powerful legacy of serving youth and families. Corey brings firsthand experience in what it takes to step into leadership after a founder, how to honor a founding vision while adapting to today’s challenges, and how to navigate the complexities of founder’s syndrome. In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Corey Dantzler for a powerful and deeply practical conversation about nonprofit leadership, founder transitions, and the realities of leading after a visionary founder. Corey shares his remarkable leadership journey, shaped by growing up inside the Boys & Girls Clubs of America movement and learning directly from his father, who founded the Challengers Boys & Girls Club in South Los Angeles. The conversation explores the emotional and operational complexities of stepping into leadership after a founder’s departure, navigating founder syndrome, honoring legacy while introducing innovation, and helping organizations evolve without losing their mission-centered identity. Corey offers candid insight into building trust with staff, empowering teams to find their voice, working effectively with boards, and leading through transition with authenticity and conviction. Listeners will also hear thoughtful reflections on mentorship, servant leadership, organizational culture, succession planning, and the importance of leading from the back while allowing the mission to remain the organization’s true North Star. This is an essential episode for nonprofit executives, emerging leaders, board members, and anyone navigating leadership transition in mission-driven organizations. Watch or listen to this inspiring Lead for Good conversation and discover what it truly means to lead with both respect for the past and courage for the future.

In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Dawn Reese, CEO of The Wooden Floor, for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation on nonprofit leadership, servant leadership, and what it truly means to be a fundraising CEO. Under Dawn’s leadership, The Wooden Floor has become a nationally recognized model for arts-based youth development, helping underserved youth thrive through dance, academic support, and family services. Since 2005, 100% of students have graduated high school on time and immediately enrolled in higher education. Throughout the conversation, Dawn reflects on the formative experiences that shaped her leadership philosophy, the mentors who influenced her journey, and why empathy is foundational to effective leadership. She shares practical wisdom on building a culture of philanthropy, developing high-performing teams, balancing operational leadership with fundraising responsibilities, and creating organizational cultures where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow. This episode also explores: Why servant leadership is both compassionate and powerful The importance of mentorship, coaching, and lifelong learning How nonprofit leaders can embrace discomfort to grow Strategies for developing future leaders within organizations The value of relationship-centered fundraising How The Wooden Floor is expanding its impact through innovation and partnerships Dawn’s reflections on leadership, purpose, and investing in people offer valuable insight for nonprofit executives, emerging leaders, fundraisers, board members, and anyone passionate about creating meaningful impact in their communities. Watch now and discover why leading with empathy, humility, and intentionality remains one of the most powerful ways to lead for good. #LeadForGood #NonprofitLeadership #ServantLeadership #Fundraising #Philanthropy #LeadershipDevelopment #TheWoodenFloor #YouthDevelopment #ArtsEducation #LeadershipPodcast

In this episode of Lead for Good, host Chris Looney sits down with higher education advancement leader Michael Eicher for a masterclass in nonprofit leadership, organizational culture, and campaign strategy. Drawing from decades of leadership experience at institutions including The Ohio State University Foundation, UCLA, and Johns Hopkins University, Mike shares practical wisdom on what it takes to lead one of the nation’s most ambitious advancement enterprises. The conversation explores: Why alignment and co-creation matter more than consensus in building bold institutional vision The leadership principles behind sustaining a world-class advancement culture How Ohio State built one of the most successful campaigns in higher education history The importance of investing in people, retaining top talent, and developing future leaders Why philanthropy must remain both broad-based and transformational How mentorship, creativity, and asking better questions shape exceptional leaders Mike also offers candid reflections on imposter syndrome, leadership growth, organizational culture, and the evolving future of philanthropy and higher education advancement. His perspective on building trust, empowering teams, and teaching generosity provides valuable insight for nonprofit leaders at every stage of their careers. This episode is filled with actionable leadership lessons, strategic thinking, and inspiration from one of the most respected advancement leaders in the country. Watch or listen to the full episode and discover what it truly means to lead for good.

What does it take to scale a mission-driven nonprofit without losing the heart and soul of the organization? In this powerful episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Dr. Chad Nelsen, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation, for a candid and insightful conversation about leadership, growth, culture, and mission stewardship. Under Chad’s leadership, Surfrider has grown from a $5 million organization with 30 team members into a nationally influential $15 million organization with more than 85 staff members, all while strengthening its grassroots network, policy impact, and organizational resilience. In this episode, Chad shares: His remarkable “mailroom to CEO” leadership journey The mentors and experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy How Surfrider navigated financial decline and rebuilt stronger than ever Why mission focus is critical during periods of growth The importance of leadership coaching and developing leaders at every level Lessons learned about scaling culture, systems, and infrastructure How nonprofits can avoid the dangers of rapid, unsustainable growth Why steady, intentional growth often outperforms chasing big windfalls The future of environmental advocacy and Surfrider’s work around climate resilience and ocean protection One of the most compelling themes of the conversation is Chad’s belief that nonprofit leaders are ultimately stewards of the mission, responsible for making difficult decisions that best advance long-term impact. This episode is filled with practical wisdom for nonprofit CEOs, emerging leaders, board members, and anyone seeking to grow an organization responsibly while remaining deeply aligned with mission and values. Watch or listen now to this outstanding conversation with one of the nonprofit sector’s most thoughtful and authentic leaders.

In this episode of Lead for Good, host Chris Looney sits down with John Mangum, President and CEO of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, for a thoughtful and highly practical conversation on what it truly takes to step into a new leadership role and succeed from day one. Drawing on a distinguished career that includes leadership roles with the Houston Symphony and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, John shares a candid look at his leadership journey and the lessons that have shaped his approach to leading complex, mission-driven organizations. At the center of this conversation is a topic every nonprofit leader will face at some point: the critical first six months in a new role. John offers a clear and grounded framework for how leaders can listen deeply, build trust quickly, and resist the temptation to act too fast before truly understanding the organization. From navigating stakeholder relationships to balancing strategic decision-making with humility and curiosity, this episode provides a roadmap for starting strong and leading with intention. Listeners will also gain insight into: Why a “listening-first” approach is essential for long-term success How to build credibility with boards, staff, and donors early on The importance of aligning vision collaboratively rather than imposing it prematurely Practical ways to balance immediate decision-making with long-term strategic thinking What it means to leave an organization better than you found it Whether you are stepping into your first executive role or transitioning into a new organization, this conversation is packed with wisdom that will help you lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose. 🎧 Tune in to hear how great leaders begin their journey and set the foundation to truly lead for good.

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.

In this episode of Lead for Good, host Chris Looney sits down with Nicole Suydam, CEO of Goodwill of Orange County and former CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, for a thoughtful and practical conversation on what it truly takes to lead in the nonprofit sector. With more than three decades of leadership experience, Nicole shares the formative moments that shaped her journey, from early leadership development in her youth to rising from a development role to CEO of one of the largest nonprofits in Orange County. Along the way, she reflects on the mentors who guided her, the importance of curiosity and stepping beyond defined roles, and the leadership philosophy that anchors her work today. The conversation explores several critical themes for nonprofit leaders: The gap between perception and reality in the nonprofit sector, including misconceptions about profitability, overhead, and operational complexity Why nonprofit leadership is often just as demanding, if not more so, than for-profit leadership How Goodwill’s social enterprise model integrates mission and revenue to create sustainable impact The power of collaboration over competition, and how relationships, trust, and intentionality expand impact across organizations The role funders play in either enabling or limiting innovation and partnership Practical leadership lessons on listening, continuous learning, and staying focused on what can be controlled Nicole also offers a candid perspective on servant leadership, values-based decision making, and the ongoing work required to grow as a leader. This episode is a must-listen for nonprofit executives, emerging leaders, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how to lead with purpose, clarity, and impact in a complex and rapidly evolving sector. Subscribe to Lead for Good for more conversations with leaders who are shaping the future of nonprofit leadership.

Lead for Good featuring Bill Bracken, Founder and Executive Director of Bracken’s Kitchen In this powerful episode of Lead for Good, Bill Bracken shares a leadership journey shaped by grit, faith, humility, and a deep belief that leadership is influence. Bill is the founder of Bracken’s Kitchen, launched in 2013 to rescue, repurpose, and restore both food and lives. What began with a food truck and a calling to do something more meaningful than serving luxury hotel guests has grown into a transformative nonprofit serving thousands across Southern California . But this conversation is not just about food. It is about the heart of leadership. Bill reflects on his early years in high pressure culinary environments, where technical excellence was prized but leadership development was not . From that experience, he learned a critical lesson many nonprofit leaders understand firsthand: being exceptional at a craft does not automatically prepare you to lead people. Through personal struggle, rediscovered faith, and an unexpected season of unemployment during the 2008 economic crisis, Bill found clarity in a simple but profound realization. Food was the conduit. Influence was the calling . Throughout the episode, Bill unpacks what leadership as influence truly means: Empathy in action, including a life changing moment with a woman named Ruby that reshaped his understanding of dignity and human connection The difference between feeding people and nourishing them, and why dignity must accompany service Why kindness should never be confused with weakness How love, as an action rather than a feeling, transforms teams and cultures The importance of slowing down, knowing your people, and leading through genuine care He also shares practical habits that ground his leadership every day, from personally greeting each team member to writing handwritten notes of encouragement . This episode is a reminder that influence does not require a title. It requires intention. It requires courage. It requires the willingness to be inconvenienced for the sake of others. If you are a nonprofit leader navigating growth, culture, accountability, and mission, this conversation will challenge and encourage you. Listen now on YouTube, Podbean, or your favorite podcast platform.

In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Casey Castillo, CEO of the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, for a wide ranging conversation on leadership, culture, and building systems that truly serve people at scale Under Casey’s leadership, the Food Bank is on pace to exceed 52 million pounds of food distributed this year, translating to more than 43 million meals and reaching 400,000 people each month through an extraordinary network of partners, volunteers, and supporters But this conversation goes far beyond impressive numbers. Casey shares his leadership journey from program staff to CFO to CEO, including the willingness to step outside his formal job description, say yes to unfamiliar challenges, and grow into greater responsibility. His story is a masterclass in initiative, resilience, and mission driven leadership. This episode also offers a practical blueprint for building a strong organizational culture. Casey walks through the specific tools his team uses to strengthen alignment, accountability, and performance, including: Patrick Lencioni’s The Five Dysfunctions of a Team to build trust and healthy accountability Metronomics and the Metronome platform to connect long term vision with disciplined execution CliftonStrengths to deepen self awareness and improve team communication An Organizational Health Assessment to measure performance beyond financial metrics Net Promoter Score as a simple but powerful employee engagement indicator You will also hear powerful insights on: Why leaders must be willing to move faster when culture misalignment appears How setting bold goals creates momentum, even when you do not hit 100 percent Why it must be safe to fail if you want transformational progress How a clear 10 to 20 year vision can unify daily execution If you care about strengthening culture, increasing accountability, and building a nonprofit that can tackle big, systemic challenges, this episode is for you. Listen now on YouTube, Podbean, or Substack, and join us as we continue to explore what it truly means to lead for good.

Lead for Good – Episode 7 Autumn Strier | Building What the Community Needs Most In Episode 7 of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Autumn Strier, Co Founder and CEO of Miracles for Kids, for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about what it really takes to build a nonprofit from the ground up and sustain it for more than two decades. Autumn’s leadership journey begins long before she launched her organization. As a child, she experienced firsthand the life changing impact of people who stepped in to help during times of hardship. That early imprint of generosity shaped a life devoted to service. From UC Santa Barbara to NYU, from New York City government under Mayor Giuliani to Wall Street structuring nonprofit debt, Autumn built an unusually strong foundation in finance, public policy, and strategy before returning to the nonprofit sector. Then came a defining moment. After the birth of her daughter and a frightening hospital experience, Autumn overheard another family’s struggle with a critically ill child and the financial devastation that followed. That moment sparked the mission of Miracles for Kids: to support families with critically ill children so they can fight for their child’s life without losing their home, job, or stability in the process. More than 20 years later, Miracles for Kids serves hundreds of families daily through housing, financial assistance, wellness programs, advocacy, and holistic family support. What began as one woman writing 31 checks from her couch has grown into a multi program organization with staff, volunteers, housing complexes, and thousands of lives impacted each year. In this episode, Autumn shares practical and candid insights on: • How to craft a mission statement that fills a true gap in the community • Why charities are built to contribute, not compete • How to recruit and retain a high impact board • The importance of financial fluency for nonprofit leaders • Building strong corporate partnerships through value and alignment • Creating programs directly from the voices of those you serve • Developing a trusted brand rooted in transparency • Leading through recessions, crisis, and constant change • Why strategy must match passion and purpose Her leadership philosophy is both grounded and inspiring. There is never just a problem, only an opportunity for a new solution. Health is the great equalizer. Take the high road. Work harder than anyone else. And always remember that a small group of committed people can change the world. If you are launching a nonprofit, leading an established organization, or navigating growth in uncertain times, this conversation offers real world wisdom from someone who has done it. Listen to Episode 7 of Lead for Good and discover how to build something that lasts by leading with strategy, resilience, and heart.

Matt VandenBerg | Managing Vision, Elevating Sights, Building Momentum In this episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Matt VandenBerg, the 17th President of Ohio Wesleyan University, for a wide ranging and energizing conversation about what it truly takes to lead with boldness, clarity, and conviction. From an unexpected pivot away from medical school to a deliberate beeline toward college presidency, Matt shares the formative moments, mentors, and mindset that shaped his leadership journey. Along the way, he unpacks powerful insights that extend far beyond higher education and into the heart of nonprofit leadership. This episode centers on three transformational leadership themes: Creating a Shared Vision Matt explains why nobody rows hard for a boat they do not believe in. He shares how leaders must not only study culture, but be seen studying it. From shadowing staff across campus to inviting open dialogue, he demonstrates how shared ownership fuels alignment and innovation. Raising Collective Aspirations It is hard to rally people around “stay afloat.” Matt makes the case that leaders must articulate a compelling picture of a better tomorrow and position others as heroes in that story. As he puts it, organizations do not simply exist to preserve themselves. They exist to leverage what they have to create a better world. Building and Sustaining Momentum Momentum is contagious. Wins validate vision. Matt recounts bold, strategic moves including a reimagined presidential inauguration and a fully funded $45 million library transformation announced in one sweeping moment. His message is clear: enthusiasm and progress generate confidence, trust, and further investment. Throughout the conversation, Matt emphasizes humility, clarity, consistency, action, grace, and courage. He challenges leaders to avoid stagnation, embrace calculated risk, and swing for the parking lot rather than simply protect what already exists. If you are a nonprofit leader seeking to galvanize your team, elevate your organization’s ambitions, and sustain forward momentum, this episode delivers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Listen now to Episode 6 of Lead for Good and discover how shared vision, raised sights, and disciplined momentum can transform your leadership and your impact.

In this compelling episode of Lead for Good, host Chris Looney sits down with Chris Simonsen, Chief Executive Officer of the Orangewood Foundation, for an insightful conversation about purpose driven leadership, financial stewardship, and what it really takes to transition from CFO to CEO in the nonprofit sector. Chris’s journey is anything but typical. After achieving his career goals in the for profit world as CFO of a $3 billion organization, he made a bold decision to accept a 70 percent pay cut and step into nonprofit leadership. What followed was not only personal alignment, but transformational impact for thousands of young people across Orange County. From navigating the Great Recession to building a $70 million charter school campus and growing the organization’s endowment from $2 million to $30 million, Chris shares candid lessons from nearly two decades of mission driven leadership. In this episode, you will learn: Why a successful for profit executive chose purpose over paycheck What nonprofit leaders can learn from financial discipline and long term sustainability planning How to successfully transition from CFO to CEO and earn board confidence The mindset shift required when moving from operations to organizational vision and fundraising How servant leadership shapes culture, trust, and team performance Why nonprofits must rethink outdated views on overhead and investment in talent What the “network nonprofit model” looks like in action and how collaboration stretches limited resources How broadening mission definitions can unlock new funding streams and greater impact Chris offers practical guidance for interim leaders seeking permanent roles, emerging executives building board relationships, and nonprofit organizations striving for financial resilience in uncertain times. He also challenges the sector to embrace deeper collaboration, innovate beyond traditional funding silos, and prepare for a future where government resources may decline and nonprofits must adapt creatively. If you care about sustainable growth, mission alignment, culture building, and long term impact, this episode delivers practical wisdom from a leader who has walked the path from financial steward to chief executive. Subscribe to Lead for Good and join us as we continue exploring the leadership journeys shaping the future of the nonprofit sector.

In this powerful episode of Lead for Good, Chris Looney sits down with Claudia Keller, Chief Executive Officer of Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, for an honest and energizing conversation about nonprofit leadership, courageous decision making, and the strength of collaboration. Claudia’s leadership journey is anything but traditional. She began in the for profit retail fashion world, rising through the ranks before making a bold transition into nonprofit executive leadership. What followed was a 20 year career marked by grit, growth, and a deep commitment to serving communities with dignity and impact. In this episode, you will hear: How transferable skills from the for profit sector can strengthen nonprofit leadership The difficult early lessons of accountability and making tough personnel decisions What it was like to join a major food bank just weeks before the COVID 19 pandemic How crisis reshaped Second Harvest and accelerated the evolution of the “modern food bank” Why collaboration is not optional in today’s nonprofit landscape The story behind Orange County’s “Sisters in Good” and what authentic CEO peer support looks like Practical wisdom for aspiring and current nonprofit leaders navigating frustration, growth, and change Claudia shares candid insights about leadership under pressure, holding people accountable with compassion, and measuring progress even when the work moves at the speed of collaboration. Her perspective on board engagement, cross sector partnerships, and nonprofit resilience will resonate with leaders at every stage of their journey. If you are a nonprofit executive, board member, emerging leader, or someone considering a career in the sector, this conversation will challenge and encourage you. The problems nonprofits tackle are complex and enduring. As Claudia puts it, if they were easy, someone else would have solved them long ago. That is why strong, collaborative, thoughtful leadership matters more than ever. Listen in and be inspired to lead with courage, collaboration, and conviction.

Welcome to the ”Lead for Good" podcast, designed for nonprofit leaders at every level. Join us as we connect with top nonprofit professionals, diving deep into the traits, strategies, and actions that drive successful leadership in the sector. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to elevate your leadership skills and maximize your impact. In each episode, our host, Chris Looney, interviews an inspiring leader committed to making a difference. In this episode, Robert Santana, a CEO of one of the countries largest Boys and Girls Clubs associations, a social entrepreneur, board advisor, leadership consultant, and disrupter for good, shares about his leadership journey and helps the audience understand key issues around being future ready and being a futurist leader. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to lead for good! Don’t forget to like and share this video with fellow nonprofit leaders! #nonprofitleadership #leadershipdevelopment #nonprofitpodcast #inspiration #leadforgood

Welcome to the ”Lead for Good" podcast, designed for nonprofit leaders at every level. Join us as we connect with top nonprofit professionals, diving deep into the traits, strategies, and actions that drive successful leadership in the sector. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to elevate your leadership skills and maximize your impact. In each episode, our host, Chris Looney, interviews an inspiring leader committed to making a difference. In this episode, Dr. Stefanie Johnson, best selling author of "INCLUSIFY" and the leader of the Colorado University Boulder Center for Leadership, shares about her leadership journey and helps the audience of leaders understand key issues around inclusion, stress, and unconscious bias. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to lead for good! Don’t forget to like and share this video with fellow nonprofit leaders! #nonprofitleadership #leadershipdevelopment #nonprofitpodcast #inspiration #leadforgood

Welcome to ”Lead for Good,” your go-to podcast designed for nonprofit leaders at every level! Join us as we connect with top nonprofit professionals, diving deep into the traits, strategies, and actions that drive successful leadership in the sector. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to elevate your leadership skills and maximize your impact. In each episode, our host, Chris Looney, interviews an inspiring leader committed to making a difference. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that will inspire you to lead for good! Don’t forget to like and share this video with fellow nonprofit leaders! #NonprofitLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #NonprofitPodcast #Inspiration #LeadForGood