W(h)ine About Data

In this episode of the W(h)ine About Data Podcast, Amanda Lopez and Rose Johnson discuss the power and importance of talking about data regularly, especially in nonprofit organizations. They explore the challenges nonprofits face in discussing data, the process of analyzing data for insights, and the significance of making course corrections based on data findings. The conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement in data discussions, providing practical tips for integrating data into existing meetings and fostering a culture of data-informed decision-making.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes twice a month! Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:Hyperlinked reference titles hereThis episode features Amanda Lopez and Rose Johnson – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Rose are drinking a Cabernet Sauvignon “Super Cab” by St. Julian Winery in this episode! 

In this episode of the W(h)ine About Data Podcast, Amanda Lopez and Rose Johnson chat about the art and science of data design: creating visually compelling and digestible data visuals—especially for nonprofit and organizational reporting. Whether you're a data professional or a visual beginner, get practical tips and insights to enhance your dashboards, reports, and presentations. Stand out in your designs!W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes twice a month! Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:Plotly.com (Free online platform for easier data visualization)ColorOracle.org (Accessibility testing tool for color-blind friendly visuals)Our Go-To Sources for Getting Data: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/evaluation/update-our-go-to-sources-for-getting-data/3 Tools to Develop Meaningful Infographics: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/general-information/3-tools-to-develop-meaningful-infographics/Nonprofit Storytelling: Why Go Visual?: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/evaluation/nonprofit-storytelling-why-go-visual/ This episode features Amanda Lopez and Rose Johnson – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Rose are drinking a Pinot Blanc by Braganini Reserve in this episode! 

In this episode of the W(h)ine About Data Podcast, Alison Gerardot of the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne joins Amanda to discuss the Foundation’s journey of creating a vision plan for the community. They explore the importance of data in informing strategic decisions, the operationalization of the vision plan, and the role of community foundations as conveners in addressing community needs. Alison shares insights on the challenges and successes of implementing the Let's Rise vision plan, emphasizing collaboration and adaptability in the nonprofit sector.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes twice a month! Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne: https://cfgfw.org/Transform Consulting Group: https://transformconsultinggroup.comStart With Why by Simon Sinek: https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/ This episode features Amanda Lopez and Alison Gerardot– Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Alison are drinking a Non-Alcoholic Pinot Grigio by SEAGLASS Coastal Wines in this episode! 

In this episode of the W(h)ine About Data Podcast, Alison Gerardot of the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne joins Amanda to discuss the foundation’s “Let’s Rise” Community Indicators Dashboard. They explore the vision behind the dashboard, its significance in tracking community well-being, and the importance of data-informed decisions in the nonprofit sector. The discussion highlights the feedback received from the community, insights gained from the data, and the visual representation of information through data mapping. Amanda and Alison also touch on the long-term commitment required for maintaining the dashboard and offer advice for other foundations considering similar initiatives.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes twice a month! Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:Let’s Rise: Community Indicators Dashboard: https://cfgfw.org/community-dashboard/What’s the benefit of community indicators? https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/education/whats-the-benefit-of-community-indicators/ 4 Steps to Create a Dashboard: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/evaluation/4-steps-create-dashboard/ Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne: https://cfgfw.org/Transform Consulting Group: https://transformconsultinggroup.comThis episode features Amanda Lopez and Alison Gerardot – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Alison are drinking a Non-Alcoholic Sauvignon Blanc by Frē Wines in this episode! 

Amanda Lopez is joined by Morgan Ellis, Communications Manager for Transform Consulting Group, to discuss 4 key Facebook metrics that every nonprofit should be measuring in their marketing. Digital marketing tools like social media platforms, websites, and email marketing are here to stay. Morgan shares with our audience of nonprofit professionals the 4 most important Facebook metrics to consider, regardless of the size of the organization.The 4 Facebook MetricsReach (Views): The number of times your content was played or displayed. Content includes videos, posts, stories and ads.Engagement rate (Content interactions): The number of likes or reactions, saves, comments, shares and replies on your content, including ads. Content can include formats such as posts, stories, reels and more.Link Clicks: The number of clicks, taps or swipes on links within your content, including ads. Content may include formats such as posts, stories and reels that led to destinations or experiences, on or off Facebook.Follower Growth: The total number of followers of your Facebook Page or profile. This is calculated as the number of follows minus the number of unfollows over the lifetime of your Facebook Page or profile.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:Marketing 101: 5 Tips to Build Your Brand: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/communities/marketing-101-5-tips-build-brand/Marketing 101: 4 Steps for Your New Year Marketing Efforts: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/communities/marketing-101-4-steps-new-year-marketing-efforts/ Marketing 101: 5 Ways to Enhance Your Social Media: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/project-management/marketing-101-5-ways-enhance-social-media/ TransformConsultingGroup.com This episode features Amanda Lopez and Morgan Ellis – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Morgan are drinking Funkelwürtz Zero Non-Alcoholic Wine. 

In this episode, Amanda Lopez is joined by Chief Program Officer, Joni Schmalzried, of WindSwell Foundation (formerly AWS Foundation). They discuss the importance of partnerships between nonprofits and foundations—exploring how nonprofits can effectively align their missions with foundations, the role of data in these partnerships, and the significance of storytelling in demonstrating impact.Joni emphasizes the need for transparency and open communication to foster strong relationships between nonprofits and foundations, while also highlighting the importance of being informed about the data used in nonprofit proposals to foundations.The conversation provides valuable insights for nonprofits looking to strengthen their partnerships with foundations.Key Takeaways:Nonprofits should align their missions with foundationsData is crucial for demonstrating impact to fundersStorytelling is an essential part of communicating successTransparency in reporting is vital for trustNonprofits should not hesitate to reach out to foundationsUnderstanding the specific data definitions is importantBuilding relationships requires consistent communicationFoundations can provide valuable resources and informationNonprofits should be proactive in sharing their challengesPartnerships should evolve based on ongoing data and feedbackW(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. 

What role can private foundations play in strengthening their grantees’ data capacity? It’s widely known that nonprofit organizations face significant challenges when it comes to data management, analysis, and evaluation. In this episode, we talk with Mandy Drakeford from WindSwell Foundation (formerly AWS Foundation) in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to explore practical strategies funders can use to help nonprofits develop critical data literacy skills.This episode is great for private foundation professionals, nonprofit leaders, and clean-data advocates. Learn about the key challenges facing nonprofits today, how private foundations can effectively support grantee data capacity building, the benefits of investing in nonprofit data literacy training, practical steps to strengthen evaluation and data management, and more.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:Client Dashboard Examples: Public.tableau.com/app/profile/transform.consulting.group/vizzes#!Building a Community Indicators Dashboard: TransformConsultingGroup.com/project/building-a-community-indicators-dashboard-for-community-impact-initiativesWhat is a Data-Informed Organization?: TransformConsultingGroup.com/evaluation/what-is-a-data-informed-organizationHow to Develop Data and Evaluation Competencies in Your Staff: TransformConsultingGroup.com/communities/how-to-develop-data-and-evaluation-competencies-in-your-staffOur Go-To Sources for Getting Data: TransformConsultingGroup.com/evaluation/update-our-go-to-sources-for-getting-dataWhy You Should Invest in Training Up Nonprofit Leaders: TransformConsultingGroup.com/nonprofit/why-you-should-invest-in-training-up-nonprofit-leadersWindSwell.org TransformConsultingGroup.com This episode features Amanda Lopez and Mandy Drakeford – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Mandy are drinking the refreshing Black Razzberry Lacroix

Most nonprofits struggle to create annual reports that people actually want to read. In this episode, host Amanda Lopez talks with TCG’s Communication Manager, Morgan Ellis, about making annual reports that donors, board members, and stakeholders care about. This year is coming to a close, so this is the perfect time to rethink your approach to annual reporting.Morgan breaks down five things every good annual report needs: knowing your audience, leading with stories instead of data, keeping your mission visible throughout, using clean design with strong visuals, and sharing it everywhere. Learn from Amanda and Morgan as they discuss TCG's own experience creating annual reports.Don’t let your annual report sit on a shelf. Let it work for you across all your communication channels. Whether this is your first annual report or you're updating an old process, this episode gives you a clear framework for showing what your organization actually accomplishes.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:3 Ways for Nonprofits to Refresh their Annual Report: TransformConsultingGroup.com/project-management/3-ways-for-nonprofits-to-refresh-their-annual-reportTCG’s Annual Reports through the Years: TransformConsultingGroup.com/about-us/annual-reports W(h)ine About Data Podcast Episode 20: Tell Impactful Stories in an Ethical Way: TransformConsultingGroup.com/podcast/episode-20-tell-impactful-stories-in-an-ethical-way This episode features Amanda Lopez and Morgan Ellis – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Morgan are drinking NOZECO Non-Alcoholic Peach Bellini in this episode! 

End-of-year giving is crucial for nonprofits, with 30% of annual donations happening in December.In this episode, host Amanda Lopez joins Cathy Gatchel from The Honeywell Foundation to discuss data-driven strategies that turn year-end fundraising pressure into success. Discover how to leverage donor data, optimize fundraising campaigns for #GivingTuesday, and craft compelling stories and appeals that resonate during the holiday season. Cathy shares proven tactics (from her 20+ years in the nonprofit sector) for maximizing fourth-quarter donations, from segmenting donor lists to timing your outreach for maximum impact. Learn how successful nonprofits use analytics to identify major gift prospects, personalize messaging, and build urgency without overwhelming supporters.Whether you’re scrambling to meet budget goals or planning ahead for next year, this conversation offers actionable insights and next steps to transform your year-end fundraising approach.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:10 Tips for Your Year-End Giving Campaign: TransformConsultingGroup.com/communities/10-tips-year-end-giving-campaign Besides an ask, did you say thank you for your donation?: TransformConsultingGroup.com/fundraising-strategies/besides-ask-say-thank-for-your-donation 6 Strategies to Maximize #GivingTuesday: TransformConsultingGroup.com/fundraising-strategies/7-strategies-maximize-givingtuesday 21st Century Fundraising: Using Integrated Campaigns: TransformConsultingGroup.com/fundraising-strategies/21st-century-fundraising-using-integrated-campaigns W(h)ine About Data Podcast Episode 23: 3 Donor Database Secrets that Increase Nonprofit Funds: TransformConsultingGroup.com/podcast/episode-23-donor-database W(h)ine About Data Podcast Episode 20: Tell Impactful Stories in an Ethical Way: TransformConsultingGroup.com/podcast/episode-20-tell-impactful-stories-in-an-ethical-way W(h)ine About Data Podcast Episode 19: Charitable Giving Trends from 2024: TransformConsultingGroup.com/podcast/episode-19-charitable-giving-trends-from-2024 This episode features Amanda Lopez and Cathy Gatchel – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Cathy are drinking Kendall Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay in this episode! 

In this episode, discover three donor database secrets that every seasoned nonprofit fundraising professional is using to increase their annual fundraising results.Welcome Cathy Gatchel, Chief Development Officer for The Honeywell Foundation in Wabash, Indiana, to this episode of the W(h)ine About Data podcast! Cathy shares her 20 years of fundraising experience and gives us the inside scoop on how nonprofits can improve their overall fundraising strategy.Here are the three donor database secrets:Donor Profile Management: Keep donor contact information and profiles up-to-dateMulti-Channel Communication: Collect all ways of contacting every donorGift Cycle Tracking: Take detailed notes on where each donor lands in the giving cycleW(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one glass of wine at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn. References:HoneywellArts.org/honeywell-foundationHoneywellArts.org/eagles-theatre DowntownWabash.orgVisitWabashCounty.com How Do I Start Fundraising? 4 Free Ways to Increase Fundraising This episode features Amanda Lopez and Cathy Gatchel – Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights! Amanda and Cathy are drinking “Seaswept” wine by Josh Cellars in this episode! 

Rose Johnson returns with our host Amanda Lopez to tackle a major pain point in fundraising: nonprofit fundraising strategies that actually work. Building on Episode 19’s discussion of 2024 giving trends, Rose and Amanda dive deep into why so many organizations chase the wrong donors, tell weak stories, and drop the ball on follow-up. Bottom line: Smart data strategies can transform your fundraising game.  Learn why targeting the wrong donors is costing your organization time and money. Take away the 3 critical fundraising mistakes that kill donor relationships. Understand how to audit your donor database and why it matters more than you think. Take notes on the key metrics that actually predict fundraising success. Plus, learn how to leverage your board, volunteers and other brand champions as assets for meaningful donor relationships.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one conversation at a time.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month.Learn more about TCG and explore other client stories at www.transformconsultinggroup.com.References:Episode 19: Charitable Giving Trends from 2024 https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/podcast/episode-19-charitable-giving-trends-from-2024/ Episode 20: Tell Impactful Stories in an Ethical Way https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/podcast/episode-20-tell-impactful-stories-in-an-ethical-way/Online Toolkit: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/education/online-toolkit-for-early-childhood-donors/Board Development: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/board-development/10-ways-to-include-board-members-in-fundraising/ Fundraising Strategies - Increase Funds: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/fundraising-strategies/4-free-ways-increase-fundraising/ Fundraising Strategies - Board Involvement: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/fundraising-strategies/how-to-get-your-board-involved-in-fundraising/ [LINK] Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow TCG on Facebook and LinkedIn. This episode features Amanda Lopez and Rose Johnson! Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights!Amanda and Rose are drinking ElementAL Wine’s pinot grigio in this episode! 

In this episode, we're joined by Carey Services President and CEO Jim Allbaugh to discuss his rural nonprofit organization's impact in the community of Marion, Indiana. Carey Services is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities turn abilities into opportunities.Carey Services hired Transform Consulting Group to complete a research study informing the development of transportation solutions to support their clients' ability to work and engage in the community, while also meeting broader transportation needs for local residents and employers.Jim shares how his team uses data strategically to demonstrate why organizations like Carey Services play such a critical role in empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence. We explore how data storytelling can amplify the impact of mission-driven work.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one conversation at a time.Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! We release new episodes on the 1st and 15th of every month.Learn more about TCG and explore other client stories at www.transformconsultinggroup.com.References:https://www.careyservices.com/https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/project/transportation-study-findings-for-rural-community/[LINK] Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow TCG on Facebook and LinkedIn. This episode features Amanda Lopez and Jim Allbaugh! Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights!Amanda and Jim are drinking TÖST Original non-alcoholic wine in this episode!

Rose Johnson returns alongside Amanda Lopez for a masterclass in ethical storytelling that puts your community at the center of your impact narrative. In this essential episode for nonprofits and data-driven organizations, our hosts break down the art and ethics of using data to tell authentic, powerful stories that honor the people behind the numbers.Why This Episode Matters: In an era where authentic connection drives real change, learn how to transform your data into compelling narratives without exploiting the communities you serve. Rose and Amanda share their tested strategies for building trust, gathering genuine testimonials, and creating a sustainable storytelling ecosystem beyond a single team member.Perfect For:Nonprofit leaders and communications teamsData analysts in mission-driven organizationsMarketing professionals in social impactAnyone amplifying community voices responsiblyThe Evergreen Storytelling ProcessDefine your audience - Know who needs to hear your storyIdentify the problem - Get crystal clear on what you're solvingConfirm the solution - Show your impact with integrityShare the success - Amplify voices authenticallyKey Insights You'll GainRedefining Data: Discover how data transcends numbers to become powerful information, with the human element as the most critical data point of all.Organic Story Gathering: Why open calls beat targeted asks, the importance of face-to-face connection, and always sharing how stories will be used. Plus, why letting contributors review the final product is non-negotiable.Building Infrastructure: Learn to maintain an always-open pipeline for stories, empower leadership to champion narratives, and leverage board members and volunteers as storytellers.Key Takeaway: "You never want to be the best kept secret as a nonprofit."Essential Actions: Train your entire team on ethical storytelling guidelines, establish clear collection protocols, and build relationships that extend beyond transactional story gathering.W(h)ine About Data is your go-to podcast for turning data complexity into clarity, one conversation at a time. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and never miss an episode.Learn more about TCG, what we do, and other client examples here: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References:EthicalStorytelling.com https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/evaluation/using-data-tell-story https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/government/sharing-your-organizations-story-with-videoData Storytelling Blog Series:https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/general-information/nonprofit-storytelling-creating-infographics-to-help-tell-your-story https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/general-information/nonprofit-storytelling-preparing-compelling-and-engaging-presentations https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/evaluation/nonprofit-storytelling-why-go-visual Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn This episode features Amanda Lopez & Rose Johnson. Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights!

Our very own Senior Project Consultant Rose Johnson returns with TCG President Amanda Lopez to provide expert insights on charitable giving trends and how your nonprofit can use them to its advantage in 2025.Rose and Amanda discuss the latest Giving USA Report – covering charitable giving trends from 2024 – and share helpful transformer tips to build up diversified funding streams for your nonprofit organization!Key Takeaways in Episode 19:Inflation may have increased in 2024 but individual giving remained strong, which is expected to continue in 2025Never underestimate the power of the “Engine on Individual Donors”Stretch your funding streams beyond grants and corporate gifts to avoid instability – strengthen your individual giving program for financial stabilityDon’t make assumptions or decisions for your donorsDonor Advised Funds (DAFs) should be on your radar if they aren’t alreadyUse the Giving USA 2024 report and compare funding streams mentioned to your organization’s funding streamsLearn more about TCG, what we do, and other client examples here: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn This episode features Amanda Lopez & Rose Johnson. Connect with them on LinkedIn for more insights!

At TCG, we love working with non-profit community-based organizations! In today’s episode of the W(h)ine About Data podcast, we are joined with special guest Teresa Galley, Executive Director, as she discusses the link between nonprofits and data. Tune in to episode 18 to learn more about the prioritization of data in nonprofits. Learn more about TCG, what we do, and other client examples here: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Teresa Galley 

We had the pleasure to sit down with the incredible Julie Garber and discuss how foundations use data.Foundations are often tasked with the difficult decision of distribution with finite funds. Learn more about how foundations analyze their data to determine impact. Learn more about TCG, what we do, and other client examples here: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Julie GarberDataStory: Explain Data and Inspire Action Through Story by Nancy Daurte 

It’s no secret that grant writing can be taxing!On our newest episode of the W(h)ine About Data podcast, Amanda Lopez, President of TCG, and Rose Johnson, Senior Project Consultant, dive into data tips and tricks that aid in grant writing. Whether it’s building your data inventory to determine your go-to data indicators or providing a strong case statement, this episode is packed with helpful tools to aid in your grant writing process.Learn more about TCG, what we do, and other client examples here: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Rose Johnson

We LOVE data visualization! Putting your data in pictures, charts, and graphs can really elevate your data story.Today we have Sara Gropp, Data Manager and certified Tableau Specialist again to chat about why it’s important to make your data visually appealing. We breakdown how you can make data visual (dashboards, infographics, etc.) and share our go-to tips and best practices. Don’t forget to leave us a 5-star review!

We’ve talked about it before, but “dirty data” can keep our Transformers up at night!When data gets overwhelming, disorganized, or inaccessible, often the reason is that it’s messy and time for a clean up! This is a common “whine” for many of our clients so we’re pulling in Data Manager, Sara Gropp for this conversation as she talks through our simple approach to cleaning up data.Are you in our FB group? You can chat with Transformers - like data expert Sara - and others! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1ALqtYSgxD/

In today’s episode, we’re happy to introduce Data Manager Sara Gropp!She brings her data lens to the conversation as we discuss best practices for collecting feedback. “Collaborate” is a pillar of our work at TCG regardless of the type of project. Gathering feedback from partners, staff, clients, funders, and others is vital to inform your work and telling your organization’s story.We break down who we need to gather feedback from, how we’re doing it, and some of the tools we use to make it possible. As always, leave us a 5-star review and drop some comments around what you want to hear next!

On the surface, "evaluation" doesn't sound fun or exciting. Maybe it even makes you panic! Simply put, an evaluation helps you determine if your organization is accomplishing what you set out to accomplish! This episode breaks down our simple 4-step approach over a glass of wine and some laughs. Did you know we have a Facebook group?? This is the place to connect with our TCG Transformers and other like-minded Whiners! Join the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1KfgGv7ELf/

Many of you have heard of SMART goals, but when it comes to outcomes and outputs, putting the acronym into practice can be a challenge. SMART stands for: SpecificMeasurableAchievableRelevantTime-basedIt's a litmus test you can use to make sure you have strong outcomes and goals. In today's episode, we walk through the steps towards making your outputs and outcomes "SMART", share examples of clients who are doing this well, and give you tangible takeaways to work on with your team. Don't forget to leave us a 5-star review!

Today's episode takes us back to the basics as we chat about outcomes and outputs. Our goal is to remove the fancy lingo and help you understand how both of these are needed to reach your organization's goals for impact. Simply put, "outputs" are the tangible items or activities you provide. "Outcomes" are the change or the benefit of the activity provided. We share the common hurdles we see nonprofits experience, and you'll walk away with practical next steps. Learn more in this blog: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/evaluation/3-steps-establish-clear-outcomes/

Our first live episode! After having many conversations with clients and partners who are making plans for the new year as well as trying to understand potential changes to funding sources, we knew this was an important topic to tackle. This podcast breaks down:• How you can use data to raise funds• How to make a case for your programs• How to demonstrate the need for your programsLearn more about TCG, what we do, and other client examples here: https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

We're bringing our podcast "W(H)ine About Data" to you live as we tackle a conversation about DATA AND FUNDING! If you're a nonprofit, you need money to operate. We help our clients use their data to tell their stories of need and highlight their impact and great work. It’s the start of a new year, and we know that many of you are navigating potential changes to funding sources. We are excited to share how other organizations are using data to raise funds, make the case for their programs and services, and cultivate requests for support. Join us for lively conversation - over a glass of wine - as we share some tips and examples. Head over to LinkedIn on February 19th at 3:00pm EST to join the convo: https://www.linkedin.com/events/w-h-ineaboutdatahappyhour-data-7292991566380441600/theater/

Welcome back to W(h)ine About Data! Today we're talking about something that doesn't always feel logical - logic models! If you’re struggling to connect your day-to-day activities to the bigger picture or if you have funders and partners asking "How does this all work" - it’s time for a logic model. You can think of a local model like your program’s roadmap. It connects what you do to the impact you want to make. It’s not just a planning tool; it’s your guide to clarity, accountability, and results.For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/References:Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

Welcome to W(h)ine About Data! How do you know your programs are really making an impact? It’s not just about good intentions—it’s about results. That’s where program evaluation comes in. In this episode, we're busting myths about evaluation with hosts Denae Green & Amanda Lopez!For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

Welcome back as we dive into our #DataInformed Approach on this episode of W(h)ine About Data! At Transform Consulting Group, we use a Data-Informed Approach that includes 4 components: 1. Clear Metrics 2. Data Access 3. Leadership Buy-In 4. Data Literacy In this episode, we wrap up this series with a conversation about Leadership Buy-In. We discuss how to ensure your leaders at all levels understand your data and integrate it into daily team operations.For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

Welcome back as we dive into our #DataInformed Approach on this episode of W(h)ine About Data! At Transform Consulting Group, we use a Data-Informed Approach that includes 4 components:1. Clear Metrics 2. Data Access 3. Leadership Buy-In 4. Data Literacy In this episode, we're diving into Data Literacy! Data literacy refers to the ability of individuals and organizations to effectively understand, interpret, analyze, and use data to inform decision-making, demonstrate impact, and drive meaningful change. It involves more than just technical skills; it encompasses a mindset that values data as a strategic asset and ensures it is used ethically and responsibly.For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

Welcome back as we dive into our #DataInformed Approach on this episode of W(h)ine About Data! At Transform Consulting Group, we use a Data-Informed Approach that includes 4 components: 1. Clear Metrics 2. Data Access 3. Leadership Buy-In 4. Data LiteracyIn this episode, we're diving into the second component - Data Access! Have you ever struggled to find the data you need? We know how frustrating this can be! Data access may feel similar to looking for something in a messy room. You want to understand what you want to find, then you want it to be easy to find, and lastly, you want to understand it! We're breaking this down and more!For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

Welcome back as we dive into our #DataInformed Approach on this episode of W(h)ine About Data! At Transform Consulting Group, we use a Data-Informed Approach that includes 4 components: 1. Clear Metrics 2. Leadership Buy-In 3. Data Access 4. Data Literacy In this episode we're diving into the first component - Clear Metrics! What metrics have you been looking at lately? Do you look at data often? How do you choose clear metrics? We'll answer these questions and more!For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

In this Episode of W(h)ine About Data, we're sharing our #DataInformed Approach! At Transform Consulting Group, data informs everything we do. “The goal is to turn data into information, and information into insight.” ~ Carly FiorinaA data-informed organization blends the “lived experience” and knowledge of staff with objective data to make data-informed decisions. Many of our clients have data but don't know what to do with it. That's why we've come up with a simple approach to use data to make an impact. This episode shares an overview of the 4 components that make up a data-informed organization: 1. Clear metrics 2. Data access 3. Data literacy 4. Leadership buy-inFollow along as we break down each of these components in our next episodes!For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube! Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green

Welcome to our podcast W(h)ine About Data! As #DataNerds at Transform Consulting Group, we are excited to bring more data insights to you through a new platform. W(h)ine About Your Data will demystify data and offer you an outlet for practical learning in an informal environment. We’re educators at heart, but even when we’re “teaching” our approaches (that we’ve worked so hard to simplify) can still seem daunting, overwhelming, and unrealistic for organizations in the trenches. This podcast is a low-cost (free, and small-time commitment) investment for individuals who want to grow their data muscle. In episode 1, we're sharing all the reasons we LOVE data and why you should follow along on this journey!For more about TCG, visit https://www.transformconsultinggroup.com/ References: Watch this episode on YouTube!Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn Hosts Amanda Lopez & Denae Green