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281: Ask a Funder: Crucial Insights for Nonprofit Success (Cathryn Dhanatya)
SUMMARY
Are you struggling to secure the funding your nonprofit needs, unsure if your proposals are hitting the mark or if your leadership approach is holding you back? In episode 281 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Cathryn Dhanatya shares invaluable advice for nonprofit leaders navigating the complexities of fundraising and leadership. With experience on both sides of the funding process, Cathryn highlights the common mistakes organizations make when submitting proposals. She emphasizes the critical role of relationship-building, clear communication, and developing a strong team to secure large-scale donations. Cathryn also dives into strategies for demonstrating a "return on impact" to funders, showcasing how nonprofits can measure success and make a compelling case for support. For those aiming to lead with confidence, she also discusses the significance of inclusive leadership and servant leadership, offering practical insights for building an effective organizational culture.
ABOUT CATHRYN
Cathryn is Co-founder and President/CEO of Growing Good Inc., a professional services firm that partners with non-profit organizations and companies who aim to do good in the world. Cathryn has previously held key C-suite executive positions and board director and advisory positions for organizations in the areas of research, higher education, and across the non-profit sector tackling complex social issues from healthcare, education, diversity and gender equity, microfinance, green technology, and food insecurity. She has lived and worked on five continents; earned her Ph.D. in Social Science and Comparative Education from UCLA; and has led and conducted research on media and technology as it relates to health issues around the globe. She has been a keynote speaker at several international and domestic conferences, events, trainings, and featured in numerous media outlets.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence by Lisa SunLearn more about Cathryn and the work done at Growing GoodHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
280: 3 Characteristics of a Great Nonprofit Leader (Jeffrey Abramowitz)
SUMMARY
Are you struggling to balance mission-driven leadership with the practical demands of scaling your nonprofit AND keeping your team motivated and engaged? In episode 280 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Jeffrey Abramowitz shares his powerful journey from trial lawyer and incarceration to nonprofit leadership, and explores the three essential characteristics that define great leadership in the sector: listening, learning, and engaging. Drawing from his personal experiences, including time spent in federal prison, Jeff illustrates how education and workforce development can create life-changing opportunities for marginalized individuals.
ABOUT JEFFREY
Jeffrey Abramowitz, J.D is the CEO of the Petey Greene Program. He was previously the ED of Justice Partnerships and served as the ED Reentry Services for JEVS Human Services and the Program Director of Looking Forward Philadelphia Reentry Program. Prior to his tenure at JEVS, Jeff was the Director of Workforce Development for the Community Learning Center and successfully completed a fellowship with Justleadership USA. Jeff proudly sits on the Executive Board of the Coalition on Adult Basic Education, COABE, where he serves as Secretary, and chairs the State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship Program. Jeff was appointed to the Pennsylvania Reentry Council and serves as Chairman of the Employment Committee and Co-chairs the Reentry Committee for the PA Workforce Development Board. Jeff is the current Chair of the Philadelphia Reentry Coalition and was recently appointed to the Montgomery County Pennsylvania Public Defender’s Association Advisory Board. Jeff is a subject matter expert for the US Department of Education, is the Moderator for the US Department of Education LINCS (Literacy Information and Communication System, Resource Collection) Community of Practice on Correctional and Reentry Education and has worked on the Integrated Education and Training (IET) in Corrections Project.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
The Second Mountain: How People Move from the Prison of Self to the Joy of Commitment by David BrooksHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
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279: Digital Transformation: A New Era for Nonprofit Leaders (Beth Kanter)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders embrace the opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI) while navigating the ethical challenges it presents, all without losing sight of the human-centered mission at the heart of their work? In episode 279 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Beth Kanter, a seasoned expert in nonprofit technology, delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. She offers a nuanced perspective on adopting AI in a way that enhances human-centered work, improves productivity, and upholds organizational values. Beth also shares her journey to becoming a leading voice in nonprofit tech, emphasizing the importance of empathetic leadership, ethical AI use, and maintaining workplace well-being. Whether you're leading a small nonprofit or a large organization, this conversation will provide valuable strategies for integrating technology without compromising the human touch that defines effective nonprofit work.
ABOUT BETH
Beth Kanter is an internationally recognized thought leader and trainer in digital transformation and well-being in the nonprofit workplace. She is the co-author of the award-winning Happy Healthy Nonprofit: Impact without Burnout and co-author with Allison Fine of The Smart Nonprofit. Named one of the most influential women in technology by Fast Company and recipient of the NTEN Lifetime Achievement Award, she has over three decades of experience in designing and delivering training programs for nonprofits and foundations. As a sought-after keynote speaker and workshop leader, she has presented at nonprofit conferences around the world to thousands of nonprofits. Learn more about Beth at www.bethkanter.org.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal NewportLearn more about Beth here at Beth Kanter.orgReady for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipRe -
278: 3 Barriers to Nonprofit Strategic Planning (Chris Wong)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders shift from simply surviving to strategically thriving in an environment filled with resource constraints and external pressures? In episode 278 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Chris Wong delves into the intricacies of strategic planning for nonprofits, addressing common challenges and offering actionable solutions. Drawing from his extensive experience, Chris identifies the three biggest barriers nonprofit leaders face: resource constraints, lack of engagement and buy-in, and external pressures. He emphasizes the importance of shifting from a scarcity mindset to a strategic, long-term approach and highlights the need for inclusive planning processes that foster team alignment and commitment. Chris also shares insights on the critical role of leadership in championing strategic initiatives and offers practical tips for assessing and improving organizational culture.
ABOUT CHRIS
Chris is a certified executive coach, licensed therapist, and seasoned leadership development professional with a proven track record in the nonprofit sector. He specializes in guiding leaders through strategic prioritization, confident navigation of difficult conversations, and fostering high-performing cultures. As a facilitator and public speaker, Chris has trained hundreds of leaders and spearheaded successful organizational projects. His extensive experience spans nonprofit, health insurance, and government systems. Currently, he partners with human service nonprofit executives to execute strategic plans, addressing challenges such as conflict resolution, culture enhancement, productivity improvement, and fostering inclusive work environments. Chris' expertise encompasses leadership development, strategic planning, change management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James ClearReady for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipLooking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.comReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
277: Unlocking Pay Equity as a Nonprofit Leader (Sally Loftis)
SUMMARY
Are you grappling with compensation issues in your nonprofit organization? In episode 272 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Sally Loftis returns to shed light on pay equity and its importance in the nonprofit sector. Sally, the author of The Pay Equity Guide for Nonprofit Organizations, delves into what pay equity means and why it matters for leaders striving for fairness and transparency. She emphasizes the need for updated pay models, especially considering current labor shortages and the shift towards hybrid work environments. Sally also shares practical advice on starting pay equity initiatives, engaging in cost-of-living studies, and building compensation philosophies. Listen in to gain insights on how to make your organization more attractive to talent and retain your valuable employees through equitable pay practices.
ABOUT SALLY
Sally Loftis, a consultant specializing in human resources, organization development, and social justice, has made significant contributions in the realm of pay equity. She completed her Master of Science in Organization Development at Pepperdine University, where she focused her thesis on Pay Equity in Nonprofits. Sally’s mission is to co-create workplaces where humans feel valued through living wages and healthy human connections. Her work with Loftis Partners emphasizes racial and pay equity, appreciative inquiry, and building on human strengths within organizations. Sally’s commitment to ensuring people feel seen, heard, and represented is evident in her multifaceted career. She has worked with over 50 organizations across 15 states and 3 continents, including Fortune 50 companies, small boutique businesses, and nonprofits of varying sizes. Her approach centers on creating lasting impact, leaving a collective of individuals capable of advancing this work independently.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Elon Musk by Walter IsaacsonHear more from Sally in episode 64: How Can We Address Compensation Gaps in the Nonprofit Sector?Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
276: Transform Your Leadership in the Next 90 Days (Andrew Olsen)
SUMMARY
Are you struggling with leadership challenges in your nonprofit organization? In episode 276 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we dive into another insightful conversation with Andrew Olsen, a seasoned expert in nonprofit leadership and fundraising. Andrew introduces his new email-based course, the 90-Day Leader's Journey, designed to address critical areas of character, culture building, and leadership competence. Drawing from his extensive experience and research, Andrew reveals the common misconception that nonprofits have a fundraising problem, whereas the core issue often lies in leadership. He shares practical strategies for developing leadership skills, fostering a healthy organizational culture, and empowering team members. Discover how focusing on effective leadership can drive significant improvements to your organization’s impact and fundraising success.
ABOUT ANDREW
After spending 25+ years leading global teams to deliver professional services that drive value for companies and consumers around the world, I learned an important lesson. Everything in business (and life) rises and falls on leadership. That’s why I’m passionate about helping leaders increase their impact. It’s why I created the 90-Day Leader’s Journey email course, and why I provide strategic advisory and coaching services to entrepreneurs and business leaders. If you want to accelerate the impact, you’re making as a leader, I invite you to take my 90-Day Leader’s Journey email course or get in touch today about how I can help you through 1:1 coaching or advisory services.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
The Essential Fundraiser’s Handbook: A Guide to Maximizing Donations, Retaining Donors, and Saving the Giving Sector for Good by Lisa GreerIncrease your Leadership Impact in 90 Days with Andrew Olsen hereReady for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipLooking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.comReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
275: Fundraising Without Fear: Tips for Non-Fundraising Executives (Shannon Williams)
SUMMARY
Are you struggling with the complexities of fundraising as a senior leader at your nonprofit organization? In episode 275 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we delve into the insights and experiences of Shannon Williams from Armstrong McGuire, who offers valuable advice for nonprofit leaders. Shannon shares why fundraising often falls by the wayside and emphasizes the critical role executive directors must play in this essential task. Discover practical strategies to boost your confidence and effectiveness in fundraising, learn the importance of relationship-building, and explore how to engage your board members in the process. Shannon's journey from an accidental fundraiser to a mentor for nonprofit leaders provides inspiring lessons on cultivating donor relationships, asking for advice, and leveraging your executive title to its fullest potential. Tune in for actionable tips that can transform your approach to fundraising.
ABOUT SHANNON
After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism, Shannon stumbled into a fundraising position cloaked in a communications job and found her passion. For over 25 years, Shannon has focused on bringing fundraising systems, stories of impact, staff and volunteers together to help organizations change the trajectories of their clients and communities. Shannon leads the Armstrong McGuire team of advisors in helping boards find strategic direction, transforming vision into a clear, articulate case, maximizing fundraising potential, and matching talented leaders to exceptional organizations. When she is not partnering with nonprofits, you will find Shannon cheering on Furman Cross Country and Track, all things Tar Heels, and the Carolina Hurricanes.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Asking: A 59-Minute Guide to Everything Board Members, Volunteers, and Staff Must Know to Secure the Gift by Jerold PanasReady for a Mastermind? Learn more here.Sign up for our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
274: Leading Through Adversity (Bruce Ham)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders effectively balance daily challenges, organizational culture and strategic growth while staying true to their mission? In episode 274 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Bruce Ham brings nearly 40 years of experience and two pivotal lessons that shaped his leadership: tackling uncomfortable tasks first thing in the morning and adopting a holistic view of any challenge. He discusses the importance of mentors, strategic meeting management, and cultivating a positive organizational culture. Learn how Bruce navigated personal adversity and professional growth, emphasizing the significance of strategic planning, collaboration, and building strong board relationships. His candid reflections on fundraising reveal practical tips for developing confidence and competence in this essential skill.
ABOUT BRUCE
Bruce Ham has been employed by the YMCA of the Triangle Area for thirty years. His experience has focused on supervision, team development, leadership, and volunteerism. For the past five years, Bruce has led successful fundraising efforts for the YMCA and the Strategic Planning and Board Development processes. Bruce lost his young wife to cancer in 2010 and spends his free time working with families as they navigate illness and loss. In addition, Bruce has had the opportunity to address medical staff members at multiple hospitals, helping them more fully understand how to honestly and simply work with critically ill patients and their families.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer & John Ortberg Read Bruce’s journey through loss in his book Laughter, Tears and BraidsReady for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadershipLooking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.comReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
273: How A Funding Collaborative Can Empower Your Nonprofit (Tara Townsend & Carlos Hernandez)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders navigate the challenges of equitable collaboration and sustainable funding in a sector often marked by resource disparities and systemic barriers? In episode 273 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, two influential nonprofit leaders, Tara Townsend and Carlos Hernandez, discuss the intricacies of collaboration, sustainability, and access to capital within the nonprofit sector. Carlos shares his journey from founding an organization in his basement to navigating equitable collaborations with mainstream institutions and Tara emphasizes the importance of systems change and sustainable funding, particularly through their initiative focused on supporting Chicago's cultural treasures.
ABOUT TARA
Named President of IFF’s Social Impact Accelerator in June 2022, Dr. Tara Townsend leads IFF’s work to accelerate positive social impact and systems change by meeting nonprofit sector needs and addressing place-based challenges throughout the Midwest. Dr. Townsend previously served as Senior Vice President of IFF’s research and evaluation practice, which informs and guides strategic planning and the investment of resources to maximize the transformational impact on low-income and disabled communities. Townsend brings to her role over 20 years of applied research and evaluation experience in the nonprofit and public spheres within several sectors, including criminal justice, public health, and education.
ABOUT CARLOS
Carlos R. Hernandez is the founder executive director of the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance (PRAA), and has transformed the organization into one of Chicago's leading Latino arts institutions. PRAA offers a broad spectrum of cultural and academic enrichment programs for youth and children and is renowned for producing the annual Emmy Award-winning National Cuatro Festival. In 2021, PRAA, under Carlos’s guidance, was awarded $500,000 and named one of Chicago’s Cultural Treasurers.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Working with You is Killing Me: Freeing Yourself from Emotional Traps at Work by Katherine Crowley & Kathi Elster & 1776 by David McCulloughReady for a Mastermind? Learn more here!Need more resources? Check out our website: -
272: Cultivating Community and Compassion in the Digital Age (Andria Larson)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders harness the power of technology to build meaningful relationships while driving organizational growth and maintaining a motivated volunteer base? In episode 272 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Andria Larson shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership. She discusses the unique challenges and opportunities technology brings to nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of turning instant impacts into long-term relationships. Andria highlights the critical role of surrounding oneself with a knowledgeable team and the significance of maintaining clear, simple communication with volunteers. She reveals how to grow an organization driven by a mission of kindness and community support and offers valuable insights into strategic planning and team motivation.
ABOUT ANDRIA
Andria Larson is the Executive Director of Lasagna Love, a spirited global initiative dedicated to combating hunger and overwhelm by spreading support through the heartfelt sharing of home-cooked meals. Andria has catalyzed the organization’s explosive growth from a heartfelt local project in San Diego to a globally celebrated emblem of hope and solidarity. Leveraging her extensive experience in operations management and visionary leadership across the retail, hospitality, and food service sectors, Andria's career highlights her versatility and fervent desire to make a tangible difference. Her earlier roles refined her skills in crisis management, strategic planning, and team motivation, which she now applies to empower a dedicated army of 52,000 volunteers at Lasagna Love. Under her passionate leadership, the organization has not only broadened its horizons but also fortified its operational frameworks, ensuring enduring and meaningful community impact.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
The Second CEO: Accelerating Scale When Following the Founder by Matt SharrersLearn more about Andria and Lasagna Love hereReady for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on AudibleDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens: the latest on nonprofit leadershipLooking for more resources? Check out our website, PMAnonprofit.comReady for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire -
271: Rethinking Time Management for Nonprofit Leaders (Hunter Corn)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders break free from traditional time constraints and foster imaginative, value-driven leadership that drives impactful change? In episode 271 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Hunter Corn dives deep into the essence of time management and imaginative leadership within the nonprofit sector. He challenges conventional time constraints, encouraging leaders to reframe their approach by incorporating imaginative thinking and creative practices. Hunter shares his unique methods for maintaining an open mind, such as delving into fiction and magical realism, which he finds essential for innovative problem-solving. He emphasizes the importance of core values and inclusivity, drawing on personal experiences and diverse cultural references to inspire fresh perspectives. Hunter also discusses the significance of adaptability in organizational success, offering practical advice for nonprofit leaders to foster an environment where creativity and resilience thrive.
ABOUT HUNTER
Hunter Corn is a proud North Carolinian with over twenty-five years of non-profit experience. Born and raised in rural Cleveland County, he worked in the Office of University Development while attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After living in the Washington, DC area serving two national non-profits, he returned to North Carolina working at the state’s second largest chamber of commerce for over a decade. He joined the small staff of Wildacres Leadership Initiative over six years ago, guiding the organization through two Friday Fellowship class cycles and the covid-19 pandemic. Besides staff roles in membership, operations, fundraising, and leadership, Hunter has served on several non-profit boards (including lead officer roles) throughout the years. Hunter’s core reflection is a constant reconsideration of the question “How will we be with each other?”
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Let the Dead Bury Their Dead by Randall KenanStewardship: Choosing Service Over Self-Interest by Peter BlockReady for a Mastermind leadership development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available in Audible!Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com and don’t miss our weekly -
270: Entrepreneurial Best Practices for Nonprofit Leadership Success (Katya Hancock)
SUMMARY
As a nonprofit leader, how can you amplify your nonprofit’s impact through strategic funding and a clear organizational vision? In episode 270 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Katya Hancock, Executive Director of Young Futures, shares her innovative approach to strategic design and funding, and how she’s amplified impact across various themes like digital play and youth expression. By outlining an Entrepreneurial Operating System adapted for nonprofits, Katya emphasizes the importance of setting clear, ambitious goals and fostering accountability within teams. She underscores the significance of transparency in reporting to funders, sharing practical insights on maintaining open communication even during challenging times. Katya delves into effective storytelling, advocating for narratives that are both inspiring and consumer-friendly, essential for engaging stakeholders and donors alike.
ABOUT KATYA
Katya Hancock is a mission-driven executive, entrepreneur and public health champion with over two decades of impact leadership across healthcare, technology and philanthropic ventures. Leveraging all she has learned to help build startup ecosystems to solve health “moonshots”, she is dedicating the next chapter of her career to the urgent need of improving youth mental health in today’s rapidly evolving world. Katya is the founding Executive Director of Young Futures, a non-profit on a mission to make it easier to grow up in the digital world. Young Futures was founded to help young people and their families not just survive, but flourish as a team when meeting the uncertainties of this digital wilderness. Prior to Young Futures, Katya spent a decade as a founding team member and Chief Impact Officer of StartUp Health, an organization dedicated to achieving health moonshots: the world’s most pressing health challenges, including Mental Health, Health Equity, Access to Care, Children’s Health and Women's Health.
Behind Their Screens: What Teens Are Facing (and Adults are Missing) by Emily Weinstein and Carrie James Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available in Audible! Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.comDon’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
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269: Empowering Women in Nonprofit Leadership (Jenny Mitchell)
SUMMARY
How can organizations better utilize coaching to support and retain their rising stars, rather than just addressing problem employees? In episode 269 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Jenny Mitchell delves into the nuances of nonprofit leadership, especially for women, sharing personal experiences and actionable strategies. From the challenges of transitioning from a manager to a leader to the importance of reflection and prioritization, she offers invaluable advice on maintaining productivity without sacrificing well-being. Learn about the significance of defining high-value tasks and the impact of leadership intentions on organizational culture. Jenny also highlights the necessity of self-care and energy management, urging leaders to recalibrate their routines for sustainability. She further explores the critical role of boards in supporting leaders, discussing systemic burnout and the potential benefits of sabbaticals.
ABOUT JENNY
Jenny Mitchell, CFRE, DMA, CEC is the Chief Visionary Officer of Chavender, where she works closely with leaders to change the world one mission at a time. She is a dynamic speaker, executive coach, fundraising professional, and host of the Underdog Leadership podcast. She is also the author of Embracing Ambition: Empowering Women to Step Out, Be Seen, and Lead, uniting twelve exceptional women leaders from across North America with a simple goal: to share their leadership stories as a mentorship resource for the next generation of women leaders.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Fierce Self-Compassion: How Women can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive by Kristin NeffLearn more about Jenny hereReady for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible!Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership -
268: Strategic Philanthropy: Navigating Choices and Building Impact (Steven E. Mayer, Ph.D.)
SUMMARY
How can shifting from a need-based approach to an asset-based mindset transform your nonprofit’s impact and fundraising success? Discover transformative strategies to elevate your nonprofit’s impact in episode 268 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership featuring Dr. Steven Mayer, the Chief Strategist for Effective Communities. Drawing from his extensive experience, Steve shares practical advice from his book aimed at both individuals and organizations. He introduces a shift from the traditional need-based approach to an asset-based mindset, highlighting the importance of recognizing and leveraging community strengths. Steve outlines three key actions encouraging nonprofits to persuasively communicate their mission and progress. Through real-world examples and actionable tips, this episode offers nonprofit leaders’ invaluable guidance on enhancing their organizational effectiveness and fundraising success, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and impactful nonprofit sector.
ABOUT STEVE
As an Adjunct Professor and Lecturer in Johns Hopkins University’s Master of Arts Program in Non-Governmental Organization Management, Steve Mayer for many years taught an online course in Nonprofit Program Development and Evaluation. This has allowed him to hone his perspective on evaluation and energize brilliant mid-career students with perspective and tools to pursue a more decent society. In 2019 he began work on his first eBook, How to Show Off Your Wicked Strong Sexy and Incredibly Effective Nonprofit. The book was tailored to nonprofit staff and board members, and incorporated work from his website, EffectiveCommunities.com – its main purpose was to help nonprofits demonstrate their effectiveness to key stakeholders. Now, 25 years after ECP’s founding, Steve is turning his lens to focus on individuals wanting to make the world a better place. This new direction is found in his recently launched book, How to Save the World: Evaluating Your Options.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Crafting Effective Mission and Vision Statements, by Emil AngelicaCheck out Steve’s book How to Save the World: Evaluating Your OptionsHave you read Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector? You can now download the audiobook!Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com! -
267: Recapture Time with Simplification, Strategic Focus, and Systems (Alexia Maas)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders harness business strategies to enhance collaboration, strategic planning, and board dynamics for greater impact? In episode 267 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Alexia Maas shares her wealth of experience and practical advice tailored to leaders like you. She emphasizes the importance of integrating business strategies into nonprofit operations, particularly through collaboration and strategic partnerships. Alexia outlines a meticulous approach to strategic planning, highlighting the need for clear goals, focused priorities, and incremental steps to achieve success. She also addresses the critical elements of fundraising, stressing the importance of sustainability, diversification, and financial acumen. Alexia provides thought-provoking insights on board dynamics, advocating for smaller, more effective boards with diverse perspectives. Her mantra, "Do less, achieve more," encapsulates her advice to prioritize impactful initiatives and maintain strategic focus.
ABOUT ALEXIA
Alexia’s executive and legal career spans almost 30 years. A dual qualified lawyer (UK & US), she has lived & worked in several countries around the world. After 16 years in private practice, Alexia joined the Volvo Group in 2013 and became the Global GC for Volvo Financial Services in 2014. As a member of the C-Suite Executive Management Team, Alexia gained valuable experience in transformation & change management; Business Development & Growth Strategies; Compliance & Risk Management; Crisis Management and People & Talent Development. An accomplished strategist thought leader & mentor among peers, Alexia quickly became a valued and trusted business adviser and is renowned for her strong focus on execution and high impact & creative problem solving. Alexia now offers niche consultancy & mentoring services through her own firm, Stratevix. Despite her previous hectic schedule as a C-Suite Executive, Alexia mastered how to recapture her own time & value and not only found time to launch and run her own consulting business, write & publish articles, speak nationwide and–most importantly relax with friends & family, she still found time left over to combine her passion, philanthropy and community spirit as Co-Founder & Executive Director of a local nonprofit organization: Triad International Ballet.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Free to Focus: A Total Productivity System to Achieve More by Doing Less by Michael HyattLearn more about Alexia hereReady for a Mastermind? Learn more hereHave you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership -
266: Managing Overload as a Nonprofit Leader (Anton Skornyakov)
SUMMARYHow do you lessen your load and effectively delegate while also fostering an environment of continuous learning and creativity at your nonprofit? In episode 266 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we dive into effective delegation strategies for nonprofit leaders with Anton Skornyakov, author of "The Art of Slicing Work." Anton shares invaluable insights on how to delegate results rather than activities, fostering both team creativity and growth. He explains the importance of setting clear, specific goals and providing regular feedback to ensure continuous learning. Anton also highlights the need to tackle high-risk tasks first to uncover potential challenges early on. By distinguishing between predictable and unpredictable projects and building a robust feedback infrastructure, nonprofit leaders can enhance their impact and adaptability. This episode offers a practical framework for managing projects and empowering teams, essential for anyone striving to lead a successful nonprofit organization.
ABOUT ANTONAnton Skornyakov is partnering with organizations to support them on their path to becoming learning & adaptive environments that encourage everyone to contribute their full productive and creative potential. For this Anton gives ScrumMaster trainings and Product Owner trainings, mentor, coach and a builder of internal and public communities. Anton believes in Scrum being a fundamental ingredient that enables motivating ideas to become reality with an order of magnitude higher effectiveness. Today, many organizations with hundreds and thousands of people are looking for answers on how to apply Scrum and engage everyone's full potential in their product development. Having successfully applied it, Anton is a firm believer in the body of knowledge behind Large Scale Scrum (LeSS). Anton is a believer in the transformative power of communities. He consistently nurtures communities around topics he is passionate about such as Large-Scale Scrum, Liberating Structures and coaching. Anton has co-founded and lead several digital startups. Here he made own experiences in Lean Startup - applying empiricism on developing sustainable business models. He has worked as a product owner, Scrum master and developer.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
The Lean Startup by Eric RiesLearn more about Anton hereReady for a Mastermind? -
265: Prioritizing Mental Wellness as a Nonprofit Leader (Yolanda Robano-Gross)
SUMMARY
How do you support your team when they (and you) are feeling the effects of a high-stress environment? In episode 265 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Yolanda Robano-Gross shares invaluable insights and experiences on building a supportive workplace culture. She discusses the importance of prioritizing staff well-being and creating a space where individuals feel valued and heard. From implementing strategic planning initiatives to engaging in innovative fundraising approaches, Yolanda emphasizes the significance of adaptability and empathy in navigating the challenges of nonprofit leadership. She offers practical advice on building and retaining an effective board of directors, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion. Through her candid reflections and commitment to kindness, Yolanda inspires fellow nonprofit leaders to embrace empathy, cultivate meaningful connections, and drive positive change within their organizations and communities.
ABOUT YOLANDA
Yolanda Robano-Gross joined Options for Community Living as Chief Executive Officer in 2014 with over twenty years of prior executive-level experience in the health care industry. She handles oversight of all agency affairs and reports to the Board of Directors. Responsibilities include fiscal management of an annual budget of over $24 million, personnel management, program development, and fundraising. She earned her Master’s in Health Care Administration from Hofstra University, Masters in Social Work from Yeshiva University, and her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Marist College. She holds a certificate in Executive Education, Non-Profit Leadership from The Fordham Center for Non-Profit Leaders.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck Learn more about Yolanda hereReady for a Mastermind? Learn more here!Have you read Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available in AudibleCheck out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com -
264: Navigating Nonprofit Change: 5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid (Michael Randel)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofit leaders effectively navigate resistance and foster genuine support for change initiatives? In episode 264 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Michael Randel delves into the complexities of leading change in a nonprofit organization. He outlines five common mistakes leaders make, emphasizing the importance of fostering two-way communication and understanding the true nature of resistance. Michael introduces a practical framework for addressing resistance, categorizing into three levels: lack of understanding, dislike of the change, and personal mistrust. He also stresses the necessity of involving key stakeholders early in the process and building a culture of psychological safety. By focusing on listening, dialogue, and relationship-building, leaders can better navigate resistance and drive effective, inclusive change.
ABOUT MICHAEL
Michael Randel’s interest in group dynamics dates to his time as a university student in South Africa when he was thrust into a living social experiment at the University of Natal, one of the few places at the time where Black and white people interacted as peers. He realized he wanted to support people so that they could have positive experiences as they worked together in groups, rather than being in conflict. With the backdrop of the political protests against apartheid and the birth pangs of a new democracy, he spent almost a decade inside a national youth development organization. He took part in the slow, painful transformation of a rigid, bureaucratic organization to one on meeting the needs of most of the youth across the country. Everything he learned from this experience served him well as he then worked as an organizational change consultant–with nonprofits and government agencies across Southern Africa, and subsequently in a global capacity at the World Bank. Interacting with a wide range of organizations and working in a huge variety of sectors and settings, has sharpened his ability to observe, to see systems at work, to make connections, and to find different ways of doing things. This led to the establishment of Randel Consulting Associates in 2010 with a vision is to support clients who are genuinely engaged in leading change, designing holistic and tailored interventions that suit each organization.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
The Psychological Safety Playbook by Minette Norman and Karolin HelbigThe 3 Levels of Resistance framework by Rick Maurer: learn more at this link Ready for a Mastermind? Learn more here!Have you read Patton’s book -
263: Tech-Forward Strategies for Nonprofit Success (David Blyer)
SUMMARY
How can your nonprofit leverage the latest technological advancements to elevate its fundraising, donor engagement, and mission impact? In episode 263 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, technology expert David Blyer explores cutting-edge tools and strategies shaping the future of the nonprofit sector. From the imperative of leveraging technology to drive social change to the practical applications of AI and machine learning, David sheds light on how nonprofits can harness these tools to enhance donor retention, acquisition, and engagement. With a focus on integrated solutions and innovative approaches, David underscores the importance of technology in streamlining operations and maximizing impact. From virtual reality to blockchain, the horizon of possibilities is vast, offering nonprofit leaders the opportunity to revolutionize their organizations.
ABOUT DAVID
David Blyer is Co-Founder, CEO, and President of Arreva, a trusted advisor and market leader to the non-profit industry for over three decades, providing software and services including virtual fundraising, donor relationship management, and virtual auction software. He founded DonorCommunity in 1999, the first All-in-One Fundraising Software for the nonprofit industry, and co-founded Arreva with Susan Packard Orr, through a merger with her company, Telosa in 2017. In 1994, he co-founded, and was the CEO and President of Vento Software, a provider of packaged vertical business intelligence applications that was gained by Chicago-based SPSS in 1999. After the acquisition, David served as President of the company's Enabling Technologies Division which was gained by IBM. Prior to Vento, Blyer held executive management and sales positions with Tandem, NCR and other leading technology/consulting firms. David holds an MBA in Finance from Nova Southeastern University and a BA in Business Management from the University of South Florida. He also is a member of NonProfit PRO's board of directors, serving as an Editorial Advisory Board Member.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
The Generosity Crisis: The Case for Radical Connection to Solve Humanity’s Greatest Challenges by Nathan Chappell, Brian Crimmins & Michael Ashley Want to hear more from authors, Nathan Chappell & Brian Crimmins? Listen to Patton’s interview of them in episode 211 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership today!Check out the Audible version of Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector -
262: Donors and Dollars Are Down – Now What? (Morgan Falor)
SUMMARY
How can nonprofits effectively communicate financial challenges while maintaining donor support? Morgan Falor, a seasoned nonprofit strategist, dives into this question and more in episode 261 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. From leveraging transparency to harnessing the power of donor advised funds, Morgan offers insights into fostering authentic connections with prospective donors. She challenges traditional approaches to special event fundraising, urging nonprofit leaders to adapt to changing donor demographics. Morgan emphasizes the importance of legislative awareness and optimizing digital communications for donor engagement. Hear Morgan’s holistic approach to nonprofit leadership, blending transparency, strategic planning, and adaptability to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the nonprofit sector.
ABOUT MORGAN
Morgan Falor focuses on helping nonprofits create strategic approaches to both finance and development. Since joining Armanino, she has aimed to enable nonprofits to further their mission and create greater impact using data-driven approaches. She has experience in both public accounting and industry, most recently serving as executive director and VP of finance for a high-profile nonprofit organization. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in accounting from the University of Iowa and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant.
EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES
Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win by Jocko Willink, Et al.Connect with Morgan here and read some of her published articles here.Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Audiobook edition is live - start listening nowReady for a Mastermind? Learn more here!Find more resources at PMAnonprofit.com - Visa fler
