Inspired Nonprofit Leadership

In this episode, Mary discusses ten characteristics you want to consider when you’re looking for a mentor. Mary has over 40 years experience in the nonprofit sector: 26 as an executive and 18 as a board member. She knows your day-to-day challenges first hand and brings experience and expertise to help you have the greatest possible impact. Be sure to follow Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated!   You can get your free guide: How to Engage Your Board in Fundraising by going to https://hilandconsulting.org/boardfundraising Mary's book is available on Amazon or wherever books are sold: Love Your Board! The Executive Directors’ Guide to Discovering the Sources of Nonprofit Board Troubles and What to Do About Them. Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that, and follow us, on Facebook. To learn more about our previous guests, listen to past episodes, and get to know your host, go to: Hiland Consulting Connect with Mary! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryhiland Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Facebook Group: https://tinyurl.com/inspirednonprofitleadership Website: https://www.hilandconsulting.org/ Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hilandconsulting

Nonprofit leaders, are you tired of hearing that funders “don’t support general operating costs”? You’re not alone—and that mindset is costing your organization. In this episode, I unpack why donors often resist unrestricted funding and how you can change that conversation. The truth is, most donors genuinely care about your mission, not just your programs. They want to be part of the solution, but they need you to show them how their support fuels impact across your entire organization—from staff development to research to long-term sustainability. I’ll walk you through how to set the right expectations, talk confidently about unrestricted gifts, and inspire funders to invest in your cause—not just a single program. Episode Highlights 00:20 The Challenge of Funding General Operating Costs 00:46 Shifting Donor Perspectives 02:13 Communicating Your Mission Effectively 03:18 Engaging Donors with Program Details 04:31 Assuming Donors Care About Your Mission 07:07 Investment Level Conversations 09:52 Conclusion: Changing Your Fundraising Mindset Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money. Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with. As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Nonprofit leaders, when too much responsibility lands on one person’s plate, the results are predictable—burnout and turnover. Relying on a single leader, often the ED or CEO, doesn’t just exhaust them, it puts your entire organization at risk. In this episode, I share why spreading leadership capacity is essential, how to know when it’s time to hire, and what happens when you build a team that carries the load together. Episode Highlights 00:00 The Power of Shared Decision-Making 00:06 Accelerating Progress Through Better Decisions 00:17 The Feedback Loop: Learning and Refining 00:26 Building a Stronger Team for Faster Iteration 00:38 Continuous Improvement and Iteration Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money.   Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with.   As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Nonprofit leaders, fundraising isn’t just about raising dollars—it’s about raising power. In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked role of Latino fundraisers, the gap between boards and development staff, and why genuine sustainability stems from investing in fundraising, rather than galas or gadgets. Episode Highlights 02:22 Armando's Personal Story and Fundraising Philosophy 04:18 Challenges in Fundraising and Nonprofit Sustainability 11:52 Board Education and Fundraising Transparency 16:42 Latino Community and Fundraising 23:55 Critique of Traditional Fundraising Events 24:53 Challenges in Securing Funding 28:22 The Importance of Prospect Research 32:38 Supporting Latino Nonprofits My guest for this episode is Armando Zumaya. Armando Zumaya has been a fundraiser for over 40 years, working on billion-dollar campaigns at Cornell and UC Berkeley, and serving in leadership roles across major gifts, annual funds, and development. He is the founder of Somos El Poder, a national Latinx fundraising institute, and a nationally recognized expert on Latino Major Giving. Armando has raised five, six, and seven-figure gifts from the Latinx community, and is a sought-after speaker and writer whose work has appeared in Stanford Social Innovation Review and The Chronicle of Philanthropy. In 2024, he was named to The Nonprofit Times “Top 50 Leaders of Power and Influence.” He lives in Northern California and is proud of his Chicano heritage. Connect with Armando: www.somoselpoder.org Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

What if working fewer hours actually led to better results for your nonprofit? In this episode of Inspired Nonprofit Leadership, I unpack why so many nonprofit leaders—and boards!—get stuck in the weeds, and how shifting into true strategic focus is the key to both impact and sanity. I share the mindset shifts, scheduling tweaks, and permission you might not know you need to stop the overwhelm and start leading with clarity. Spoiler: the path to a thriving organization might just be a 3-day workweek. Episode Highlights 01:15 The Problem of Getting Stuck in the Weeds 02:17 The Importance of Strategic Planning 04:06 Overcoming the Fear of Working Less 04:49 Personal Experience: Working Three Days a Week Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money. Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with. As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this powerful episode of Inspired Nonprofit Leadership, Sarah Olivieri sits down with Inaudy Gil, founder of IIJ Consulting, to talk about what real inclusive leadership looks like in practice—not just in theory. They dig into unconscious bias, neurodiversity, identity, and how creating inclusive cultures starts with simple, human conversations. Inaudy shares actionable ways leaders can create psychologically safe workplaces, make room for difference, and stay aware of their own blind spots—without waiting for a formal DEI training to show up. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader or just want to do better by your team, this is a must-listen. Episode Highlights 03:51 – What Inclusive Leadership Really Means 07:37 – Addressing Bias with Openness and Compassion 14:46 – Real Stories That Highlight Inclusion Gaps 20:45 – Building a Truly Inclusive Work Culture 30:10 – How to Measure Leadership and Workplace Climate   My guest for this episode is Inaudy Gil. Inaudy I. Gil, is the Founder and Principal Strategist for IIJ CONSULTING where she works closely with businesses, community groups, and organizations on building intentional and strategic culture change. Born in the Dominican Republic, Inaudy immigrated to the United States as a child, and has lived in the Hudson Valley since 2003. Inaudy holds a Master’s in Science from SUNY Hunter College and holds an Executive Certification for Diversity and Inclusion from eCornell. She has worked tirelessly for over 20 years on eliminating oppression, racism, sexism, homophobia, and gender inequality in her community. Connect with Inaudy: IJ Consulting Facebook and Instagram -https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558318222818&mibextid=LQQJ4d On Instagram:-https://www.instagram.com/thegoodhumanchronicles Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Nonprofit leaders, are short-term pressures from funders, board members, or staff keeping you from achieving your big-picture goals? In this episode, I share how to flip the script, set priorities that actually drive long-term impact, and build a culture that keeps your team aligned. Episode Highlights 01:14 Balancing Short-Term Pressures with Long-Term Goals 05:21 The Impact Method: A Strategic Planning Approach 07:35 Team Involvement and Accountability Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money. Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with. As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Running a nonprofit isn’t just about budgets and board reports. It’s about managing the emotional weight of leadership. In this episode, I’m joined by David Baker Hargrove (they/them), a leadership consultant, licensed psychotherapist, and former CEO of a $100M+ nonprofit. To talk about blind spots, board dynamics, role clarity, and how to build a culture where trust, equity, and mental health fuel high performance. I’ll show you practical moves you can make this week, including when and how to use CISD in moments of crisis. Episode Highlights 01:16 Meet Our Guest: David Baker Hargrove 03:18 Hidden Emotional Challenges for Nonprofit CEOs 08:02 Navigating Board Dynamics and Power 20:18 Building a Culture of Mental Health and Wellness 28:47 Disaster Mental Health Leadership   My guest for this episode is David Baker-Hargrove. Dr. David Baker-Hargrove is a leadership consultant, licensed psychotherapist, and former CEO of a $100M+ nonprofit. With over 30 years of experience in behavioral health, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and crisis leadership. David specializes in helping executive teams align mission with infrastructure, navigate leadership transitions, and build cultures of trust and equity. Their work has included disaster mental health leadership following the WTC attacks and the Pulse Nightclub shooting. David is a nonbinary leader, proud spouse of 31 years, and parent to a daughter, bringing both lived experience and deep systems knowledge to every room they enter. Connect with David: Website: https://sites.google.com/view/bhcassessment/home LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-baker-hargrove-0713a37/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1SZSNozH_yRF6sUtaFgyVg Author: When the Board Chair Thinks They’re the CEO: Using DiSC to Navigate Nonprofit Power Struggles in Strategy Driven, April 2025 https://www.strategydriven.com/2025/04/01/when-the-board-chair-thinks-theyre-the-ceo-using-disc-to-navigate-nonprofit-power-struggles/ Author: Shoestring Success How We Built a Multi-Million Dollar Business from Nothing: A Practical Guide to Entrepreneurial Success Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

What if your CEO, ED, or key board member walked out tomorrow? Leadership transitions can shake nonprofits to the core—but they don’t have to. In this episode, I reveal why traditional org charts make you fragile, the simple shift that keeps your nonprofit steady, and practical steps you can take today to turn any leadership change into an opportunity instead of a crisis. Episode Highlights 01:16 The Impact of Leadership Transitions 02:26 Understanding Organizational Structure 05:11 The Leadership Blueprint 10:01 Practical Tips for Leadership Transitions Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money. Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with. As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Sometimes the bravest move a nonprofit can make is to change course. Caroline Boudreaux and Leslie Beasley of Miracle Foundation share how they pivoted from supporting orphanages to reuniting children with families—creating a model that’s transforming child welfare and proving that the best place for every child is a loving home.   Episode Highlights 05:55 The Miracle Foundation's Mission and Evolution 06:51 Challenges and Transformations in Nonprofit Leadership 08:58 The Importance of Family-Based Care 13:42 Scaling Impact Through Technology and Innovation 20:14 Measuring Impact and Leveraging Data Meet the Guest My guests today are Caroline Boudreaux and Leslie Beasley of the Miracle Foundation. Caroline is the Founder of Miracle Foundation, a globally recognized nonprofit working to ensure every child has the love and stability of a family. Since 2000, she’s helped transform thousands of children’s lives and earned honors including the United Nations Humanitarian Award and recognition as a Young Global Leader with the World Economic Forum. Leslie is the CEO of Miracle Foundation, leading innovative solutions like the Thrive Scale™, a framework based on the UN Rights of the Child, and ThriveWell, an app designed to strengthen the U.S. foster care system. She brings over 25 years of nonprofit leadership, including founding Open Arms, a social enterprise supporting women survivors of war. Together, they’re reshaping global child welfare with a bold vision: a family for every child in our lifetime. Connect with Caroline and Leslie: https://www.miraclefoundation.org/ https://www.instagram.com/themiraclefoundation https://www.facebook.com/TheMiracleFoundation.org https://www.linkedin.com/company/miraclefoundation/ https://give.miraclefoundation.org/campaign/679713/donate?_gl=1*11upmil*_gcl_au*MTI5NTY0ODc2Ny4xNzU1NjQwMzYy*_ga*MTIzMDU5MjY0MS4xNzU1NjQwMzYx*_ga_1REY0HZJCR*czE3NTU2NDAzNjAkbzEkZzEkdDE3NTU2NDA0NjAkajQxJGwwJGgw Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Are you tired of pouring time and money into marketing tactics that don’t deliver results? In this episode, I break down why a strategy-first approach is the key to making your nonprofit marketing actually work. You’ll learn how to stop wasting resources, focus on what really matters, and create a simple but powerful roadmap to grow donors, programs, and impact. Episode Highlights 00:00 - Why Strategy-First Matters 00:19 - The Three Marketing Levers 00:25 - Choosing the Right Tactics 00:28 - What to Avoid: Tactics-First Mistake 00:32 - Where to Get More Tips Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”?   Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money.   Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it.   She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with.   As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®ï¸, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results.   Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated!   Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Join Sarah Olivieri, nonprofit leadership expert, in this episode of Inspired Nonprofit Leadership as she delves into the power of coaching and strategic thought partnership for nonprofit leaders. Discover why lacking coaching support contributes to burnout, the cultural differences between nonprofit and for-profit sectors in seeking coaching, and the immense return on investment coaching can offer. Learn about the two main types of coaching support—pure coaching and strategic consulting—and when it's the right time to seek such assistance. Episode Highlights 00:21 The Power of Coaching for Nonprofit Leaders 00:31 Challenges Faced by Nonprofit Leaders 01:29 The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship 02:02 Cultural Differences in Coaching 03:18 Types of Coaching and Their Benefits 06:24 When to Seek Coaching or Strategic Guidance Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”?   Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money.   Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it.   She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with.   As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results.   Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated!   Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

In this episode of Inspired Nonprofit Leadership, Sarah Olivieri addresses the critical issue of burnout among nonprofit leaders and its detrimental effects on their teams and organizations. Sarah discusses how pushing through burnout leads to poor decision-making and overall reduced effectiveness. She highlights the importance of self-care, mental and physical wellness, and setting a positive example for your team. Tune in for practical tips on managing workload, improving IQ through rest, and fostering a healthier and more productive work environment.   Episode Highlights 00:23 Understanding Burnout in Nonprofit Leadership 02:25 Impact of Burnout on Decision Making 03:58 Prioritizing Mental and Physical Wellness 05:17 Setting a Positive Example for Your Team Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”?   Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money.   Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it.   She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with.   As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results.   Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated!   Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

What does it really mean to be brave—and how can you build courage like a muscle? In this episode, I talk with US Marine Corps veteran and positive psychology expert Jill Schulman about the science of bravery, overcoming fear, and taking bold steps toward meaningful goals.   Episode Highlights 00:00 The Bravery Effect: An Introduction 00:04 Transforming Through Bravery 00:15 The Journey to Accomplishing Goals 00:26 Living a Better Life with Bravery   My guest for this episode is Jill Schulman. Jill Schulman is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and expert in the science of bravery. With a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology (Science of Happiness and Well-Being) from UPenn, she combines evidence-based research with real-world experience to help individuals and teams embrace courage, push limits, and achieve greater performance and well-being. Her upcoming book,The Bravery Effect: The Science of Bravery, provides practical tools for developing a courageous mindset, taking bold actions, and building brave relationships. Connect with Jill FB: https://www.facebook.com/jill.schulman.5 IG: https://www.instagram.com/jillschulman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillaschulman/ Other Links: Personal website: https://jillschulman.com/ Company website: https://breakthroughleadershipgroup.com/ Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Join Sarah Olivieri in this episode of Inspired Nonprofit Leadership as she addresses the chronic issue of overloaded plates within the nonprofit sector. Sarah explains how overloading yourself and your staff can lead to decreased productivity, loss of expertise, and long-term burnout. Discover practical strategies for streamlining tasks, prioritizing effectively, and empowering your team to improve work-life balance and overall organizational performance. Tune in for valuable insights and tips to ensure your nonprofit thrives. Episode Highlights 01:18 - Why Silos Happen in Nonprofits 01:54 - The Importance of Breaking Down Silos 03:33 - How to Prevent or Reduce Silos 05:39 - Shared Goals Across Departments 07:31 - Using Collaboration Tools 08:36 - The Impact Method & Book Recommendation Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money. Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with. As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

What does it really take to lead a nonprofit like a business—without losing sight of mission? In this episode, I sit down with Tom Ulbrich, CEO of Goodwill of Western New York, to unpack the balance between vision and execution, the triple bottom line, and why your team is your greatest asset. If you’ve ever wondered how to innovate, grow, and avoid organizational “whiplash,” this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Episode Highlights 00:01 Entrepreneur and Nonprofit Leader 02:32 From Family Business to Nonprofit Leadership 04:58The Triple Bottom Line and Why It Matters 08:34 Financial Health, Teams, and Leadership Dynamics 15:01 Innovation, Risk, and Avoiding Organizational “Whiplash” 25:00 Succession Planning, Structure, and the Future of AI in Nonprofits     My guest for this episode is Tom Ulbrich. Tom Ulbrich is an entrepreneur, educator, speaker, author, social sector CEO at Goodwill of Western New York, a member of the Forbes Non-Profit Council and Executive in Residence for Entrepreneurship at the University at Buffalo School of Management.   He is an entrepreneurial leader with broad-based management experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors. His passion for social innovation is focused on nurturing strong relationships and building consensus across diverse groups of stakeholders in the academic, for-profit, non-profit and government sectors. Connect with Tom: https://www.goodwillwny.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasulbrich/ Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Join Sarah Olivieri on Inspired Nonprofit Leadership as she delves into phased budgeting strategies tailored for nonprofit organizations in growth mode. Learn how to shift from annual budgets to phase-based budgeting, ensuring sustainable expansion and confident financial planning. Sarah shares practical steps for tracking revenue and managing expenses through different growth phases. Get tips on fundraising, strategic hiring, and compounding donor relationships to expand your nonprofit effectively. Don't miss out on expert advice that can transform your budgeting approach and support your nonprofit's mission. Episode Highlights 01:18 Why Silos Happen in Nonprofits 00:59 The Challenge of Budgeting for Growth 01:30 Phased Budgeting Explained 03:11 Implementing Phased Budgeting 07:54 Real-Life Success Stories 09:16 Why Phased Budgeting Works Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money. Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with.   As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

What makes a truly great nonprofit CFO? In this episode of Inspired Nonprofit Leadership, I’m joined by Neil Shah—seasoned CFO and founder of Altruva.ai—to talk about the difference between tracking numbers and driving strategy. We explore the role of fractional CFOs, the power of financial storytelling, and how AI is transforming nonprofit finance. Whether you're managing a budget or presenting to your board, this episode will help you think more strategically about your financial leadership. Episode Highlights 04:09 The Role of a Nonprofit CFO 04:48 Challenges and Solutions for Nonprofit CFOs 06:26 Neil's Journey to Becoming a CFO 11:40 The Value of a Fractional CFO 16:41 Financial Storytelling in Nonprofits 21:51 Visualizing Data with Graphs 22:36 Understanding Financial Trends 23:28 Key Financial Strategies for Nonprofits 28:22 Professional Development for CFOs 30:13 The Role of AI in Nonprofit Finance Meet the Guest My guest for this episode is Neil Shah. Neil has spent the past two decades serving as an outsourced or in-house Chief Financial Officer for non-profit organizations across the United States, organizations with annual budgets ranging from a few million dollars to almost half a billion dollars in annual government and philanthropic revenue. He has implemented audit/fraud-proof accounting and budgeting processes and procedures, upgraded new financial software systems that reduced manual workloads, and brought boards along the financial roadmap of the organization through education and storytelling. He is a partner with leadership teams and is able to provide the financial perspective of an issue while helping those teams understand the non-financial aspects of a situation, helping to find common ground while still ensuring financial sustainability. Neil received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California. Connect with Neil: https://www.cfogroups.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilshah26/ Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

Join Sarah Olivieri, Inspired Nonprofit Leadership host, as she explores the importance of breaking down departmental silos in nonprofit organizations. Learn why effective communication is crucial, discover strategies to foster collaboration, and gain practical tips on using cross-departmental meetings, shared goals, and modern collaboration tools. Find out how to create a cohesive team that drives better outcomes for your mission. Episode Highlights 01:18 - Why Silos Happen in Nonprofits 01:54 - The Importance of Breaking Down Silos 03:33 - How to Prevent or Reduce Silos 05:39 - Shared Goals Across Departments 07:31 - Using Collaboration Tools 08:36 - The Impact Method & Book Recommendation Resource The Board Clarity Club A monthly membership for boards that provides training and live expert support to help your board have total clarity on how to be the best board possible. Learn More >> About Your Host Have you seen Casino Royale? That moment when Vespa slides in elegantly, opposite James, all charming smile, razor-sharp wit and mighty brainpower, and says, “I’m the money”? Well, your host, Sarah Olivieri has been likened to Vespa by one of her clients – not just because she’s charming, beautiful and brainy– but because that bold statement “I’m the money” was, as it turned out, right ON the money. Sarah helps nonprofits transform their organizations from failing to thriving. And she’s very, very good at it. She’s brought nonprofits back from the brink of insolvency. She’s averted major cash-flow crises, solved funding droughts, board conflicts and everything in between… and so she has literally become “the money” for many of the organizations she works with. As the former director of 3 nonprofits and founder of 5 for-profit businesses, she understands, deeply, the challenges and complexities facing organizations and she’s created a framework, called The Impact Method®️, which can help you simplify operations, build aligned teams and make a bigger impact without getting overwhelmed or burning out – and Every. Single. One. Of her clients that have implemented her methodologies have achieved the most incredible results. Sarah is also a #1 international bestselling author, holds a BA from the University of Chicago with a focus on globalization and its effect on marginalized cultures, and a master's degree in Humanistic and Multicultural Education from SUNY New Paltz. Access additional training at www.pivotground.com/funding-secrets or apply for the THRiVE Program for personalized support at www.pivotground.com/application Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.

What happens when a former investment banker, turned educator, launches a nonprofit that matches Ukrainian English learners with global volunteers—just before a war breaks out? Meet Katerina Manoff, founder of Engin, who scaled her organization from an idea to serving 50,000+ people in just five years. In this episode, we unpack how she matched unmet demand with innovative volunteer solutions, navigated global crises, and built a million-dollar nonprofit with staying power. Episode Highlights 03:13 Starting a Nonprofit: Tips and Insights 05:29 Growth and Scaling of Engin 06:36 Identifying Demand and Matching Solutions 14:30 Fundraising Journey and Strategies 24:49 Final Advice and Confidence in Leadership   My guest for this episode is Katerina Manoff. Katerina Manoff is the founder & CEO of ENGin, a global nonprofit that has paired over 50,000 English learners and volunteers for online conversation practice and cultural exchange. Prior to starting ENGin in 2020, Katerina spent a decade working in the education space, where she helped launch multiple nonprofit and for-profit initiatives. Katerina began her career as an investment banker at Evercore Partners. She holds a Master's in Education from Harvard University and Bachelors degrees in International Studies and Business from the University of Pennsylvania. Katerina is also a mom of two young girls and enjoys writing in her free time.   Connect with Katerina: Website: www.enginprogram.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enginprogram; @enginprogram Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enginprogram/; @enginprogram LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerina-semida-manoff-12b27720/ Sponsored Resource Join the Inspired Nonprofit Leadership Newsletter for weekly tips and inspiration for leading your nonprofit! Access it here >> Be sure to subscribe to Inspired Nonprofit Leadership so that you don’t miss a single episode, and while you’re at it, won’t you take a moment to write a short review and rate our show? It would be greatly appreciated! Let us know the topics or questions you would like to hear about in a future episode. You can do that and follow us on LinkedIn.