Nonprofit Hub Radio

Send us Fan MailAn organization can run the best mission in town and still get ignored simply because supporters are flooded with digital noise. The host sits down with Bradley Martin, VP of Sales and Marketing at Feathr, to get honest about what nonprofit marketing looks like when the average person is hit with thousands of impressions a day and organic reach keeps shrinking. If the word “marketing” still feels too salesy, this conversation reframes it in plain terms: fundraising, donor engagement, and staying present so people remember a cause when they are ready to act.The episode digs into why traditional channels like email and direct mail aren’t dead, but face clear operational caps. The shift then moves to the real unlock: earning a donor’s share of mind through smarter cadence and segmentation instead of just increasing volume. Bradley breaks down the high ROI of running retargeting ads for anonymous website visitors who showed initial interest but never converted, navigating privacy parameters cleanly, and pairing digital ads with email workflows to boost response rates during critical seasonal campaigns.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailNonprofit Hub Radio sits down with James Ryzhkov, Head of Growth at Bezalel Lab, to explore what it really takes to "double" a nonprofit without turning the mission into a spreadsheet goal. The conversation challenges KPI-first thinking, digs into the leadership and clarity problems that block growth, and offers practical ways to build focus, systems, and a message donors can actually repeat.James Ryzhkov is the Head of Growth at Bezalel Lab, where he pairs a technology background with a strategic outlook on the nonprofit sector. His focus is closing the gap between the meaningful work nonprofits do and the systems they need to grow it sustainably.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailWhen your work depends on trust and relationships, AI can feel like a threat. In this episode, we sit down with Lizzie Neufeld, CEO and founder of Strat Labs, to unpack the fear surrounding automation and explore how nonprofits can move forward without losing the human touch. The big takeaway: AI works best when it focuses on operations and internal capacity first, allowing fundraisers to spend less time buried in administrative tasks and more face-to-face time with donors.Instead of searching for flashy new tools, Lizzie argues for a process-driven approach—mapping exactly where your team loses time and momentum each week so you can use systems, like project management platforms, to fix those leaks. Tune in to learn practical guardrails for auditing AI-generated content, how to automate major donor follow-ups while keeping humans in control, and why operations thinking and storytelling are the two skill sets that will matter most moving forward.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailNonprofit Hub Radio sits down with Meggie Nauman and Rob Northrop, both from Lancaster Bingo Company, to explore why charity gaming can be a repeatable fundraising program rather than a once-a-year event. The conversation breaks down who bingo works best for, how to navigate licensing and compliance, and what it takes to make game night entertaining enough that players keep coming back and bring friends.Meggie Nauman is the Director of Marketing and Customer Service at Lancaster Bingo Company, where she has spent eight years helping charitable organizations connect with sales support to build successful bingo and pull tab fundraising programs. Rob Northrop is the General Manager at Lancaster Bingo Company, where he focuses on helping nonprofits, veterans groups, and fraternal organizations fundraise more efficiently and grow their community impact through charity gaming.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailOne big check shouldn’t be able to rewrite a nonprofit's mission, but that’s exactly how many organizational budgets are built. This episode features Vincent Jones, CEO of Beyond Impact, to challenge the status quo and unpack a blunt claim: philanthropy’s current funding structure is a design failure. The conversation gets specific about how the “low overhead” mindset starves organizations of fundraising capacity, traps teams in constant donor courting, and concentrates power in a handful of decision-makers instead of the communities nonprofits serve.Jones breaks down the two structural problems he sees most: the pressure to chase a small number of major donors and the sector’s tendency to fund only 501(c)(3) work even when the goal is systems change. Using a clear "ER vs. intersection" analogy, he explains the practical operational differences between a 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(4) in plain language, detailing why C4 advocacy and lobbying can target root causes while C3 programs often focus on essential short-term relief.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn the nonprofit world, urgency is constant and that makes operations easy to neglect. Yet operational excellence is often the difference between a mission that scales and a team that burns out. This conversation focuses on nonprofit operations, process improvement, and leadership clarity through a surprising origin story: learning business systems inside McDonald’s. The point is not fast food, it is repeatability. When an organization can explain how work gets done, it can train faster, protect quality, reduce errors, and improve donor and client experience without relying on heroics. That is the hidden engine behind sustainable impact, healthy culture, and staff retention.This session features insights from Nickie Froiland of MODIS9, exploring the operational habits that make mission-driven teams run smoothly. The conversation connects process discipline to clear priorities, decision authority, and the hard leadership work of letting go so a team can grow. From parsing out key priority rankings to navigating the identity shifts of leadership transitions, this framework brings operational leadership into plain language.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Sal Salpietro, Chief Growth Officer at Daytaro, unpacks what AI really means for nonprofits—where 82% use AI but only 10% have a policy. He offers a simple filter for evaluating tools (does it still work with the AI turned off?) and distinguishes AI-enabled "helpers" from AI-native "doers."He also shows how to scale AI without losing the human side of fundraising, sharing real examples of predictive modeling that reorders donor outreach and slashes list-building time. Plus, why nonprofits can't afford to stand still—and two book picks to close.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, communications strategist Vanessa Wakeman explores the high-stakes reality of modern nonprofit messaging, where public scrutiny and evolving language demand a more responsible approach to communications. Wakeman shares a practical framework for moving past draft-paralysis, building narrative resilience against digital threats, and effectively segmenting audiences to ensure every donor, volunteer, and community partner feels accurately seen. From auditing internal lexicons to establishing proactive crisis guardrails, this conversation provides marketing teams with the strategic tools necessary to confidently protect their organization's narrative.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailGet ready to dive into the fascinating world of Neurogiving! This high-energy episode cracks open the human brain to reveal the hidden biological drivers that actually spark generosity while moving way beyond old-school fundraising myths to show how identity and deep-seated emotions pull the strings of donor decisions long before they even see a "Donate" button. Listeners will walk away with a toolkit of actionable strategies—from slashing the "cognitive load" that kills conversions on digital forms to turning a cold CRM into a powerhouse of donor identity and trust. Plus, this conversation tackles the big questions: how to ethically use AI to make philanthropy more human and why "manufactured urgency" is officially backfiring in our world of attention burnout, giving you the chance to align your mission with the way donors are actually wired to give!Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailOnline donation forms are often the most overlooked friction point in nonprofit fundraising, yet they serve as the ultimate moment of donor conversion. In this episode, Danielle Rice, Senior Director of Solutions at Fundraise Up, breaks down how nonprofits can bridge the trust gap by treating their donation experience as a core product rather than a simple processing step. The discussion covers practical ways to leverage modern payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay to reduce friction, the difference between "creepy" and helpful personalization, and the critical need for AI governance and clear privacy policies to protect donor data. By focusing on a "Jobs-to-Be-Done" framework and aligning technical improvements with organizational goals, fundraising teams can move beyond tactical traps and build a sustainable, high-trust digital giving experience.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailNonprofit leadership longevity is increasingly rare, yet staying the course can be a powerful strategic advantage when coupled with the right management systems. In this episode, Janelle Miller Moravek, Executive Director of Youth and Family Counseling, shares her nearly two-decade journey of leading a community-based mental health nonprofit through various strategic "eras"—from a funding crisis to mission expansion and navigating a global pandemic. The discussion offers a grounded playbook for sustainable nonprofit management, focusing on relationship-driven leadership with clinical professionals, the transition from development director to executive management, and the shift from rigid long-range planning toward guiding principles. Beyond organizational strategy, the conversation dives into the personal habits necessary to prevent executive director burnout, emphasizing boundaries, peer support, and tactical prioritization to protect focus and mission impact.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailConnected TV (CTV) advertising is often viewed as a "big brand only" channel, but modern streaming inventory is making television marketing increasingly accessible and affordable for nonprofits. In this episode, Chris Johns, founder and CEO of AdGood, explains how organizations can leverage unused streaming inventory to drive donor acquisition and brand awareness with budgets as low as $250. The conversation breaks down the technicalities of CTV, the importance of human-centric creative hooks, and tactical approaches to omnichannel attribution using QR codes and retargeting tags. Additionally, the episode explores how AI-driven ad tools are removing production barriers by generating editable video content directly from a nonprofit's website, allowing even small teams to treat marketing as a disciplined, scalable growth lever.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailFinance often feels like a part of nonprofit leadership to be tolerated rather than utilized until a cash crunch forces decisions into panic mode. In this episode, Ryan Alexander, founder of RA Partners and author of Protect Your Mission, discusses the financial infrastructure required to keep growing missions from getting derailed. The conversation covers the practicalities of cash flow forecasting, including how to model unpredictable revenue using timing and probability to avoid painful surprises. Additionally, the episode tackles the complexities of grants management, the distinction between revenue recognition and actual cash flow, and the "people side" of finance—from hiring a nonprofit CFO to evaluating audit readiness and Form 990 preparation. For leaders seeking financial best practices that protect their programs, staff, and credibility, this discussion provides a comprehensive and clear starting point.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailYour nonprofit already has influencers, and they’re sitting in your staff meetings. In this episode, Meghan Speer talks with Deanna Tomaselli from The Motherhood: Influencer Marketing Agency about employee-generated content and why it is the most realistic, budget-friendly way to grow nonprofit visibility, trust, and community support. We dig into how to make advocacy work by keeping participation optional, training staff on the platforms they already use, and addressing brand safety concerns head-on with clear social media guidelines and crisis protocols.Deanna Tomaselli is a seasoned communications leader at The Motherhood, an agency specializing in influencer marketing and community engagement. With years of experience bridging the gap between brand voice and personal authenticity, Deanna helps organizations empower their teams to share mission-driven stories effectively. She is a passionate advocate for "Step Into Your Story" training, helping staff and volunteers find their unique voices to build deeper connections with donors and stakeholders.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailWe explore the quiet creep of nonprofit burnout and the "dehumanized leadership" patterns that often cause it. Moving beyond standard metrics, this conversation dives into the vital difference between "checking up" on goals versus "checking in" on people, and why the most effective leaders are those willing to start hard conversations without having all the answers. By focusing on psychological safety and vulnerability, we provide a roadmap for rehumanizing mission-driven work and building a workplace culture where high performers can actually thrive long-term.James Dismond serves as the CEO of MiraSol Health, an organization providing comprehensive medical and social support services. As a seasoned nonprofit leader, James is dedicated to fostering healthy organizational cultures and developing leadership strategies that prioritize employee wellbeing alongside mission success. His expertise in navigating the complexities of mission-driven environments helps leaders move away from "pedestal culture" toward more authentic, sustainable team engagement.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailA lot of nonprofits still plan fundraising like every channel lives on its own island, then wonder why “more posting” doesn’t turn into more giving. In this episode, Ben Smithee, Chief Growth Officer at NextAfter, unpacks what happens when you build an omnichannel fundraising ecosystem where each touchpoint increases familiarity, trust, and momentum toward a gift.If you want more practical nonprofit marketing and fundraising strategy, subscribe, share this with a teammate, and leave a review. What’s one channel you’re ready to connect into a real donor journey this week?Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailMonthly giving is exploding, but a lot of nonprofits are still treating recurring donors like a one time gift that repeats. We sit down with Dave Raley, founder of Imago Consulting and author of The Rise Of Sustainable Giving, to talk about what changes after the “big idea” phase and what it takes to build a mature sustainable giving program that donors actually trust.If you want stronger donor retention, more predictable recurring revenue, and a healthier culture of generosity, you’ll get a clear next step from this conversation. Subscribe, share this with a fundraiser friend, and leave a review with your biggest question about monthly giving.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailSocial media can feel like a dead end for nonprofits: you post, you hope, you celebrate likes, and somehow the donations still don’t show up. We sit down with Nick Black, CEO of Good United and founder of Stop Soldier Suicide, to get brutally honest about why “good work” isn’t a fundraising strategy and why donors can’t be treated like ATM machines. Nick shares how losing fellow soldiers to suicide pushed him to build a nonprofit from scratch and how that lived experience shaped his obsession with practical, repeatable relationship-building.Subscribe for more nonprofit marketing and fundraising conversations, share this with a teammate who owns social, and leave a review if it helps. What’s your biggest barrier to engaging supporters through DMs right now?Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailStop writing emails no one wants to open. We sat down with email strategist Amanda Nicholson to unpack why “email is dead” keeps getting repeated—and why the data says otherwise for nonprofits seeking real donor relationships and measurable results. From the first line to the final click, Amanda breaks down how to turn a crowded inbox into a steady channel for funding, volunteering, and community. If you’re ready to turn messages into momentum—more opens, more clicks, and more impact—hit play. Then subscribe, share this episode with a nonprofit friend, and leave a quick review telling us your next test.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Podcast, Rhiannon Hendrickson, founder and senior strategist at Orapin, unpacks the often-overlooked role of public relations in a nonprofit’s communication strategy. From building authentic relationships with reporters and pitching stories that connect to larger community conversations, to preparing spokespeople and crafting clear talking points, Rhiannon shares practical guidance for earning meaningful media coverage. The conversation also dives into crisis communications—why “no comment” can do more harm than good, how transparency builds trust, and what every organization should include in a crisis PR plan. Packed with actionable insights, this episode equips nonprofit leaders to move from reactive, ad hoc publicity efforts to a more strategic, credibility-building approach to PR.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Podcast, Joshua Crowther, Vice President at Dunham+Company, breaks down recent tax policy changes that could significantly impact charitable giving. Drawing from newly commissioned donor research, he explains how updates to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction and the introduction of a universal charitable deduction may unlock new generosity—especially among Gen X and Millennial donors. With only 25% of donors currently aware of these changes, nonprofits have a timely opportunity to increase giving through simple, strategic messaging—without turning their communications into tax seminars. The conversation explores what this means for development teams, how to position the message appropriately across donor segments, and why this potential boost matters in a year marked by economic uncertainty and declining donor confidence.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailFeeling uneasy about asking for money? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Duerksen, CEO of BuildGood, to break down a simple flywheel that takes the pressure off the ask and builds trust through the parts most teams skip: listening deeply, engaging like a real community, celebrating every gift, and reporting back with honesty. When those four pieces are strong, asking becomes a natural next step instead of a nerve-wracking leap.We also share how the Fundraising Academy blends coaching, cohorts, and live copy sessions so EDs and solo fundraisers can build pattern recognition and confidence faster. If you want asking to feel earned—and you want donors to feel seen, effective, and connected—this framework will help you install a sustainable rhythm that grows loyalty and revenue. If this conversation sparks ideas, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review to tell us which part of your flywheel you’ll strengthen next.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailDonor trust doesn’t travel on autopilot across borders—it’s earned through clarity, consistency, and care. We sit down with Morgan Gross, founder and CEO of Fundraising Beyond Borders, to unpack a practical playbook for U.S.-based fundraising that supports programs around the world, from first impressions on your website to the stewardship that keeps supporters engaged long after they give.If you’re building support for global programs from a U.S. base, this conversation delivers the how-to details: trust signals that convert, ethics that protect people and brand, and structures that meet your stage of growth. Subscribe, share this with a colleague who fundraises across borders, and leave a review with one trust tactic you’re adopting next.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailEver wonder why some boards feel alive, focused, and productive while others stall out in meetings and rubber-stamp decisions? In this episode, we're joined by Debra Hertz, Managing Director at The Strategy Group, who unpacks a practical roadmap for turning any board into a true strategic asset—from first contact in recruitment to the cadence of training, evaluation, and culture-building that keeps trustees engaged for the long haul. As hosts, we press into the hard truths: vague expectations create passive members, “fundraise-only” mindsets repel great candidates, and friends-and-family boards can lock you into short-term thinking. The fix is a board experience people genuinely want to join.If you want a board that thinks strategically, opens doors, and protects the mission with courage, this conversation gives you the tools to start today. Subscribe, share this with a fellow nonprofit leader, and leave a review with the one change you’ll make to strengthen your board this quarter.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailA tidal shift in philanthropy is underway, and the clock is ticking. We sit down with fundraising strategist Sarah B. Lange to unpack the $84 trillion wealth transfer and lay out a practical roadmap for turning loyal supporters into legacy champions—without massive budgets or complex infrastructure. If you’ve wondered how to approach planned giving, engage entire families, or earn Gen Z’s trust, this conversation delivers clear steps you can use now.If you’re ready to move from reactive fundraising to a family-centered legacy strategy, press play and take notes. Then share this episode with your board, subscribe for more nonprofit growth tactics, and leave a review to help other leaders find us.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailYear-end left many teams drained and second-guessing their playbook. We brought in Jeff Schreifels, principal at Veritus Group, to reframe the path forward: treat staff, donors, volunteers, and the community as the mission—and rebuild fundraising around real relationships that last through channel swings and economic shifts.We start with leadership fundamentals: rest, clarity, and a broader definition of mission that includes the people who carry it. Jeff lays out four pillars—staff, donors, volunteers, community—and shows how culture becomes strategy when you reduce burnout, align teams, and make gratitude and impact reporting routine. From there, we get tactical. If Giving Tuesday underperformed or grants tightened, the lever you control is relationship-based fundraising. Jeff explains why mid-level programs are the missing bridge, how to tier a 500–700 donor mid-level portfolio, and why personalized outreach turns steady givers into passionate partners. We walk through defining thresholds that fit your size, setting goals for each donor in a major portfolio of up to 150, and measuring movement from mid to major at two to three times the usual rate.If this conversation helps you think differently about fundraising in 2026, share it with a colleague, subscribe for more practical episodes, and leave a quick review so others can find the show. Your feedback shapes what we explore next.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever tried to run a nonprofit on passion alone, you know where that road leads: long hours, reactive decisions, and donor updates that feel like fire drills. We sat down with Lauren Reilly, executive director of the Gratitude Network, to map a different path—one where nonprofit leaders claim the tools CEOs use and apply them to mission-driven work without losing soul.We start by flipping a core belief: a nonprofit is a business. Lauren shares how to trade busywork for “CEO sprints,” short, focused blocks that pull you out of the weeds and into strategy. We unpack the difference between being a servant leader and starving your team of autonomy, and we show how mentorship, advisors, and executive coaching play distinct roles in a healthy leadership system. From crisis communication plans that calm donors to accountability rhythms that grow your next tier of leaders, you’ll get practical habits you can put on the calendar this week.If you’re ready to replace scarcity thinking with systems, and replace burnout with durable impact, this conversation will give you the prompts, tools, and next steps to lead with clarity. Enjoy the insights, share them with your team, and if this helped, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us the one habit you’re committing to this month.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, host Meghan Speer is joined by Dr. Bill Flores—speaker, author, consultant, and former university president—for a timely conversation on leading nonprofits through turbulent times. Drawing from decades of hands-on nonprofit leadership, Dr. Flores challenges organizations to stop “driving blindfolded” and instead embrace strategic planning, business planning, and creative adaptation in the face of uncertainty. Together, they explore why so many nonprofits struggle without clear plans, how leaders can refocus on strengths and core supporters, and what it takes to build sustainable revenue beyond grants alone. This episode offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a clear call for nonprofit leaders to think differently, plan boldly, and invest in their own leadership development as they work to change the world.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, host Meghan Speer welcomes back fan-favorite guest Becca Segovia, CEO of GCS Partners, for a deep dive into the “V” of the G.I.V.E. Framework—Volunteer—as a powerful strategy for turning supporters into ambassadors. Together, they explore how nonprofits can activate volunteers, donors, and supporters to lend not just their time or dollars, but their voices, sharing authentic stories that drive awareness, engagement, and giving. Becca unpacks practical ways to equip communities with messaging tools, embrace generational differences in advocacy, responsibly release control of the narrative, and leverage data showing the real financial impact of social sharing. The conversation offers actionable insights for nonprofits looking to grow retention, acquisition, and community impact by empowering their people to tell the story.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailAs we kick off a new year, it’s time to reimagine what healthy, sustainable leadership can look like. In this refreshed conversation, author, consultant, and recovering fundraiser Kishshana Palmer joins Meghan Speer to explore why “busy” is the four-letter word holding so many nonprofit leaders back. Kishshana unpacks the personal wake-up call that led her to redefine success, why rest must be a non-negotiable, and how leaders can model wellbeing for their teams without losing credibility. From setting boundaries to choosing one meaningful wellness domino to tip the rest, this episode is an invitation to step out of the frantic pace and step into a year marked by clarity, capacity, and care—for yourself and your people.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailAs the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time for nonprofits to take a hard look at their website and ensure it’s ready for the year ahead. In this refreshed conversation, Meghan sits down with Jay Owen, CEO of Business Builders, to unpack the most common website mistakes nonprofits make—and what to fix first. From clarifying your message to choosing the right primary audience, prioritizing design that builds trust, and understanding the data that actually matters, Jay offers clear, practical guidance to help nonprofits strengthen their digital presence. If you want your website to work harder for you in the new year, this episode is your roadmap to starting strong.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailGovernance can propel a mission forward or quietly stall it, and the difference often comes down to clarity, courage, and the right people in the right roles. We sit down with strategist and former executive director Eddrick Martin to unpack how boards become true force multipliers instead of rubber-stamp committees. From aligning with your board chair to recruiting beyond your first-degree network, this conversation delivers a practical blueprint for nonprofit leaders ready to modernize their governance and build momentum.If you’re ready to turn governance into a strategic advantage, this episode offers clear steps you can apply at your next board meeting. Subscribe, share with your board, and leave a review with your top governance challenge—we’ll feature solutions in a future show.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, Nina Guise-Gerrity, founder and CEO of Get Gifted and longtime Loyola University professor, shares the story behind building an innovative platform designed to make giving more personal, efficient, and meaningful. What began as a simple challenge—wanting to send her niece blueberries from across the country—became a powerful solution for individuals and nonprofits alike. Nina walks through her transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the persistence required to build technology in an unfamiliar space, and how Get Gifted enables nonprofits to clearly communicate their real, day-to-day needs through customizable wish lists. The conversation highlights donor motivation, the importance of matching intention with execution, and how tangible, personalized giving creates deeper connection and impact for communities, donors, and nonprofit leaders alike.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Pieta Blakely, Managing Principal at Rojas Blakely Associates, unpacks her concept of “joyful accountability”—a refreshing, motivating approach to program evaluation in the nonprofit sector. Drawing from her experience in workforce development and economic mobility, Pieta shares how she moved from the classroom into evaluation after seeing the need for clarity, data, and mission alignment. She explains how nonprofits can identify what truly matters to measure, avoid becoming overwhelmed by the scale of the issues they tackle, and stay energized by recognizing small wins along the way. The conversation explores building a practical theory of change, selecting meaningful metrics, navigating funder expectations, partnering effectively across organizations, and weaving together narrative and data to tell a fuller story of impact. It’s a thoughtful look at how evaluation—when done well—can inspire collaboration, focus, and celebration within mission-driven work.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailAs Giving Tuesday and the year-end fundraising season arrive, now is the time for nonprofits to double down on the metrics that truly drive growth. In this refreshed episode of the Nonprofit Hub Podcast, Meghan sits down with Carly Berna of Virtuous to unpack the most essential data points every fundraiser needs to understand before year-end appeals hit full speed. From donor retention and average gift size to recurring giving, acquisition costs, portfolio balance, and the brand-new “days to second gift” metric, Carly breaks down how these insights can shape smarter asks, stronger donor journeys, and more predictable revenue during the most generous season of the year. If you’re preparing for Giving Tuesday or mapping out your year-end strategy, this conversation will help you focus on the numbers that matter most.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailThis episode explores a scientific and psychologically informed approach to major gift fundraising with Bill Crouch, CEO of BrightDot. Bill shares his journey from higher education leadership to developing a consultancy built around understanding emotional intelligence and the balance of left-brain and right-brain thinking in fundraising. He explains how successful major gift work requires both analytical structure and creative relational engagement, and how teams can better leverage these strengths—whether through tailored roles, environmental triggers, or deeper insight into donor motivations. The conversation highlights practical strategies, including how to think like a high-wealth donor, how to build teams that blend data and human connection, and why understanding a donor’s “heart” is essential to securing transformational gifts.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, host Meghan Speer sits down with Matthew Courtney, principal consultant at Courtney Consulting, to explore how nonprofits can use program evaluation to strengthen funding applications, prove impact, and improve programs. Drawing from his own experience as a former nonprofit founder, Matthew shares hard-earned lessons about the importance of collecting and analyzing data—beyond just counting participants—to tell a compelling story of real change. He offers practical tips for starting from scratch, making data collection automatic, and creating a culture of continuous improvement that funders trust. Whether you’re a small or startup nonprofit or a seasoned leader rethinking your evaluation strategy, this conversation will help you see data not as a burden, but as a powerful tool for sustainability and growth.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailUrgent programs and tight grants can push culture work to the margins, but that’s exactly where nonprofit teams lose speed and trust. We sit down with strategist Page Hinerman of Page Capacity Builders to unpack how hybrid and remote teams thrive when leaders treat culture as core infrastructure. From rethinking “all‑staff” meetings to redesigning one‑on‑ones, we get tactical about turning updates into strategy, building psychological safety, and aligning back‑office work with frontline impact.Page shares battle‑tested ideas from years of capacity building across nonprofits, philanthropy, and government. We talk about the small moves that change everything: 10‑minute norms at the start of staff meetings, values activation that gets specific (transparency becomes shared budgets and decision logs), and monthly cross‑functional touchpoints that keep marketing and fundraising anchored in program reality. If your hybrid team feels siloed or transactional, you’ll learn how to reset communications, protect relational time, and make space for trust without sacrificing delivery.We also dig into hiring and sustainability. Using values to screen candidates prevents costly misalignment and lowers turnover; planning sooner—long before a grant deadline—keeps compliance tight and teams steady. Page outlines how consultants can fill true capacity gaps while leaving behind tools, skills, and networks so organizations sustain progress after the engagement ends. Expect clear steps you can try this week and a mindset shift that reframes culture from “nice to have” into the fastest route to outcomes.If this conversation helps you see a better path for your team, follow the show, share it with a fellow leader, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps more nonprofits find practical strategies that actually work.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailThe ground shifted under nonprofit fundraising, and we felt the jolt. Federal grants vanished, competition for private dollars surged, and small teams were suddenly racing against institutions with entire development departments. So we got practical: rebuild the grant pipeline, rethink risk, and double down on alignment over volume. Luke Keller—founder and CEO of Match Grant and board leader at Tekton—joins the podcast to share a candid playbook born from necessity: how to diversify revenue, target right-fit funders, and use data to spot warm signals that boost your odds.If you’re just starting with grants—or rebuilding after a tough year—you’ll leave with concrete steps: get laser-specific on funding needs (capital, program, or general operating), map true peers and their funders, cultivate relationships before you ask, and measure outcomes so your story holds up. The theme that carries through it all is simple and hard: don’t chase every dollar, chase alignment. Subscribe for more practical strategies, share this with a nonprofit leader who needs a lift, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailCapital campaigns don’t have to be mysterious, exhausting marathons. With Jason Lewis of Seed Fundraisers, we pull back the curtain on a simpler, smarter path: a four‑wave model that mirrors how donors actually give and how organizations can build capacity while they raise transformational dollars. Instead of forcing everything into “quiet” and “public,” we map the journey from experienced, asset‑based leadership gifts through staff‑driven cultivation, to broader, income‑based pledges—so momentum doesn’t stall and volunteers aren’t asked to do the wrong jobs at the wrong time.We also tackle the hidden “undercurrent” that sinks campaigns when gift volume spikes: pledge management, receipting, data hygiene, leadership stability, and board continuity. Jason shares where to invest staff time, when to shift from one‑to‑one to one‑to‑many outreach, and how to structure a case for support that reaches three distinct major‑donor motivations: bricks and mortar, entrepreneurial program growth, and rapid‑response needs. If you’ve ever watched a lead donor step up only to be let down by the follow‑through, this framework shows how to bring the next wave with you—on purpose.Along the way, we offer straight‑talk for newer fundraisers who feel out of their depth: get in front of donors more often, listen longer, and translate annual‑fund instincts to capital scale. Treat your campaign as a teaching instrument, not a one‑off production, and you’ll build internal muscle that lasts well beyond the ribbon‑cutting. Ready to rethink your next campaign—and keep what you learn? Follow the show, share this episode with a colleague, and leave a quick review to tell us what wave you’re planning for next.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, Trevan Strean, co-founder and creative director at Share, unpacks why branding and design are critical for nonprofits.Trevan explains how outdated visuals, inconsistent messaging, and neglected storytelling can erode trust before a donor even considers giving. He shares practical steps to keep your brand fresh without losing its identity, create a simple style guide, and communicate consistently across every channel—from your website to volunteer t-shirts.If your nonprofit is struggling to stand out in a crowded cause space, this conversation will equip you with the tools to build a brand that inspires confidence, trust, and long-term support.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailBurnout doesn’t always look like flames; sometimes it looks like “fine.” We dig into the hidden gap between employee satisfaction and true engagement—and why that gap quietly drains nonprofit performance even when everyone says they love the mission. With guest Kathryn Cronin Miller, founder of A Better Place to Work, we break down a practical framework leaders can use to move teams from compliant to committed.If you lead, manage, or care about nonprofit impact, this conversation gives you tools to rebuild trust, raise energy, and turn mission passion into measurable results. Subscribe, share this with a colleague who’s ready to move beyond “fine,” and leave a quick review to help more nonprofit leaders find the show.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Podcast, guest Ben Mohler, chief executive and consultant at Giving Three and author of Nonprofit Board Member Field Guide and Journal, unpacks the realities of nonprofit board leadership. Drawing on decades of experience, he offers practical insights on how organizations can move beyond filling seats with well-meaning supporters to cultivating governing boards that truly represent and advance the mission. From clarifying the different types of boards, to navigating fundraising expectations, to fostering healthy board culture and accountability, this conversation equips nonprofit leaders with both encouragement and actionable strategies for building stronger, more effective boards.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailFunding challenges affect nonprofits of all sizes, but the solutions might surprise you. In this eye-opening conversation, Charlyn Moss, founder and CEO of Working Within, reveals how her journey from finance to nonprofit support showed her the critical gaps between grassroots organizations and their well-funded counterparts.Moss challenges conventional nonprofit thinking with a provocative insight: trying to be everything to everyone actually makes your organization less attractive to funders. When you spread yourself too thin chasing various funding opportunities, you dilute your expertise and struggle to compete against organizations with deep specialization. The most successful nonprofits understand that going narrow first and broad later creates a stronger foundation for growth and impact.Whether you're starting from scratch or reimagining your approach after funding changes, this conversation provides actionable insights to strengthen your organization's financial foundation. As Moss reminds us with her parting wisdom: funding challenges come in cycles, and "this too shall pass" for organizations willing to adapt thoughtfully.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this illuminating conversation with Courtney Krus and Greg Colunga, managing partners of Amplify Fundraising, we unpack how nonprofits can transform their digital strategy from a "bolt-on" tactic to a powerful, relationship-building channel that drives meaningful results. These digital fundraising experts reveal what they call "The Pizza Hut Problem" - how traditional nonprofit communications often resemble impersonal, highly-stylized marketing emails that create distance rather than connection. "We have to be authentic and human," Courtney emphasizes, sharing practical ways to write conversational emails that feel like messages from a friend rather than a corporation.You'll learn why personalization matters more than polish, how to leverage the donor data you already possess, and simple changes you can implement immediately to humanize your digital communications. Greg explains that digital shouldn't be viewed strictly as a revenue channel, but as "an additive piece of the recipe to everything that you're doing," supporting and enhancing your entire fundraising program.With nonprofit retention rates dropping 12% in just four years, this conversation couldn't be more timely. Whether you're just starting with digital or looking to refresh your approach, you'll walk away with actionable strategies to build authentic connections that inspire generosity.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn a landscape where nonprofit burnout is rampant and mid-career professionals are vanishing from the sector, Kevin and Johanna from the Collaborative Collective bring urgently needed wisdom to address this talent crisis.The financial stakes are higher than many realize. When a skilled nonprofit professional leaves, the replacement cost exceeds $30,000—not counting the immeasurable loss of relationships and institutional knowledge. Yet despite these sobering numbers, many organizations continue investing mere "pennies per day" in professional development, if anything at all."If I'm not willing to spend any time developing the team, and then I can't figure out why people keep leaving..." Johanna poses this challenging question that many leaders need to confront. The conversation reveals how even cash-strapped organizations can create environments where staff feel genuinely valued and invested in, often the deciding factor in retention despite lower compensation.Perhaps most surprising is the revelation about artificial intelligence in nonprofits. Most organizations are operating in what Kevin calls "ghost mode"—staff using AI tools without guidance or oversight, potentially creating significant risks. "If you're not doing something already with AI, you need to be," Johanna emphasizes. The pair outlines practical approaches for developing sound AI policies that protect organizations while embracing innovation, including their affordable AI Policy Lab designed specifically for smaller nonprofits.The conversation concludes with powerful advice on sustainability. "Don't let the work ruin you, because the work needs you," Johanna counsels, sharing her personal journey toward establishing boundaries around rest. This wisdom, combined with Kevin's reminder that human-centered nonprofit work "is never going away" despite technological disruption, offers both practical guidance and renewed hope for sector leaders.Catch Kevin and Johanna's workshop at CauseCamp on November 4-5 in Pittsburgh to dive deeper into talent development strategies for your organization.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailWhat does innovation really look like in the nonprofit world? In this enlightening conversation, nonprofit consultant and author Leah Kral challenges the notion that innovation requires massive resources or technical expertise.Drawing from her extensive research and twenty years of experience in the sector, Leah explains that innovation can be as simple as switching from paper forms to iPads at a legal aid clinic or as complex as revolutionizing healthcare delivery for the poor. The key is being willing to question the status quo and experiment with new approaches.For nonprofit leaders feeling overwhelmed by day-to-day operations or limited by resources, this episode offers practical wisdom on fostering innovation within any organization. As Leah beautifully puts it, "The nonprofit sector isn't the withered branch – we are the root system of democracy," solving crucial social problems that deserve our most creative and courageous thinking.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this eye-opening conversation, Rebecca Prejean, CEO and founder of EB Graphics Consulting, reveals a critical gap in nonprofit work that's keeping organizations from truly serving their communities. Driven by her personal journey as a mother of a child with autism, Rebecca discusses how 14% of working-age African Americans have disabilities, yet this intersection of race and accessibility remains largely invisible in nonprofit conversations. She explains why accessibility isn't just about inclusion—it's a technical skill set that requires intentional implementation, from ensuring websites work with screen readers to creating truly inclusive workplace environments. Rebecca provides practical starting points for resource-strapped nonprofits, including affordable audit options and free accessibility checkers, while challenging listeners to move beyond virtue signaling to genuine, comprehensive support. This powerful discussion exposes how nonprofits may unknowingly be excluding the very communities they aim to serve, both as clients and team members.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Meghan Speer sits down with Chris Wong, founder and executive coach at Leadership Potential and a featured main stage speaker at this year’s Cause Camp. Drawing from his background as a licensed therapist turned leadership and organizational development expert, Chris shares practical strategies for nonprofit leaders—especially those who identify as “chronic people pleasers”—to navigate difficult conversations, balance accountability with support, and set clear boundaries without sacrificing empathy. Together, they explore how regular check-ins, progressive discipline, and value-driven leadership can transform team culture, prevent burnout, and keep organizations mission-focused. Whether you’re leading a small startup nonprofit or a large, established team, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you lead with clarity, courage, and compassion.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org

Send us Fan MailWhat if the key to greater nonprofit impact isn’t pushing harder—but leading differently? In this refreshing and deeply honest conversation, Kishshana Palmer—veteran fundraiser, founder of ManageMint, and author of Busy is a Four-Letter Word—challenges the toxic myth that busyness equals effectiveness. After a debilitating injury forced her to confront her own unsustainable pace, Palmer began reimagining leadership rooted in wellbeing, not overwork. She shares her Five-Star Wellness Plan—physical, mental, spiritual, financial, and community health—as a framework for reclaiming balance and breaking the cycle of burnout, especially for women and "oldest daughters" who often carry the heaviest loads. More than a personal wellness strategy, Palmer calls for a cultural shift in the nonprofit sector: one where self-care is embedded in professional development, rest is celebrated, and vulnerability is seen as strength. If you're exhausted by hustle culture or simply wondering if there's a better way to lead, this episode offers a bold, compassionate roadmap to sustainable impact.Support the showGet free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org