Sipping Tea with Sabrina

In this deeply personal and insightful episode, Sabrina Walker Hernandez, Dream Team Architect, shares powerful leadership lessons learned from the most influential woman in her life: her mother. From growing up in the South to navigating the complex world of faith and personal identity, Sabrina reveals how her mother's bold choices, unwavering integrity, and commitment to empathy have shaped her leadership style. Get ready to be inspired by a story of resilience, perseverance, and the profound impact one woman can have on the lives of those around her. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking authentic leadership guidance rooted in compassion and unwavering conviction.

Are you a nonprofit leader wrestling with a board that's less than thrilled about fundraising? Then grab your favorite mug and tune into this episode of "Sipping Tea with Sabrina," where Sabrina Hernandez (Dream Team Architect) chats with Jayme Dingler (nonprofit consultant) about How to Get Your Volunteer Board Excited About Fundraising-and it’s not one size fits all! Jayme Dingler is a nonprofit consulting expert, an international keynote speaker, and the owner of "What's Good LLC." Jayme is here to spill the tea on why your board might be hesitant and, more importantly, how to turn things around. Get ready for a lively discussion packed with actionable strategies, but even better, you will not be able to miss Jamie's five punchlines in particular: If you're ready to transform your board into a fundraising powerhouse, this is the episode you don't want to miss.

Are you a nonprofit leader wrestling with a board that's less than thrilled about fundraising? Then grab your favorite mug and tune into this episode of "Sipping Tea with Sabrina," where Sabrina Hernandez (Dream Team Architect) chats with Jayme Dingler (nonprofit consultant) about How to Get Your Volunteer Board Excited About Fundraising-and it’s not one size fits all! Jayme Dingler is a nonprofit consulting expert, an international keynote speaker, and the owner of "What's Good LLC." Jayme is here to spill the tea on why your board might be hesitant and, more importantly, how to turn things around. Get ready for a lively discussion packed with actionable strategies, but even better, you will not be able to miss Jamie's five punchlines in particular: If you're ready to transform your board into a fundraising powerhouse, this is the episode you don't want to miss.

In this episode of Sipping Tea with Sabrina, host Sabrina Walker Hernandez sits down with Kyara Ofuani, founder of Legally Black Law Firm, to demystify the legal requirements for nonprofit organizations. Whether you're a mission-driven company or an association, this conversation is critical for understanding how to stay compliant and effective. Kyara shares actionable insights on governance, tax exemption, bylaws, and more. Don't miss this informative discussion filled with golden nuggets to help your nonprofit thrive.

In this episode of Sipping Tea with Sabrina, host Sabrina Walker Hernandez sits down with Kyara Ofuani, founder of Legally Black Law Firm, to demystify the legal requirements for nonprofit organizations. Whether you're a mission-driven company or an association, this conversation is critical for understanding how to stay compliant and effective. Kyara shares actionable insights on governance, tax exemption, bylaws, and more. Don't miss this informative discussion filled with golden nuggets to help your nonprofit thrive.

Welcome to a transformative conversation about the heart of nonprofit effectiveness: the boardroom. In this episode, we delve into the critical topic of creating synergy among board members, exploring the strategies, challenges, and best practices that can elevate your organization's impact. Our expert guest, Jermaine Thomas, a seasoned nonprofit consultant, shares his wealth of experience in building cohesive and high-performing boards. He'll illuminate how to foster a shared vision, navigate common dysfunctions, and cultivate a boardroom culture that fuels strategic decision-making and drives mission fulfillment. Whether you're a founder, executive director, or board member, this episode offers actionable insights and practical advice to unlock the full potential of your leadership team. Discover how to: Establish a strong foundation built on shared purpose and values Promote effective communication and collaboration among board members Integrate strategic thinking into regular board meetings Address conflict constructively and maintain a positive dynamic Leverage diversity and inclusion to enhance decision-making Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and equipped with the tools to create a boardroom that truly embodies synergy, propelling your nonprofit to new heights of impact and success.

Welcome to a transformative conversation about the heart of nonprofit effectiveness: the boardroom. In this episode, we delve into the critical topic of creating synergy among board members, exploring the strategies, challenges, and best practices that can elevate your organization's impact. Our expert guest, Jermaine Thomas, a seasoned nonprofit consultant, shares his wealth of experience in building cohesive and high-performing boards. He'll illuminate how to foster a shared vision, navigate common dysfunctions, and cultivate a boardroom culture that fuels strategic decision-making and drives mission fulfillment. Whether you're a founder, executive director, or board member, this episode offers actionable insights and practical advice to unlock the full potential of your leadership team. Discover how to: Establish a strong foundation built on shared purpose and values Promote effective communication and collaboration among board members Integrate strategic thinking into regular board meetings Address conflict constructively and maintain a positive dynamic Leverage diversity and inclusion to enhance decision-making Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and equipped with the tools to create a boardroom that truly embodies synergy, propelling your nonprofit to new heights of impact and success.

Dive into a powerful and insightful conversation with Ken Miller, CFRE, on "Sipping Tea with Sabrina" as he unpacks the unique challenges and opportunities for Black men in the Development and Advancement sectors. Ken, a consultant, author, and grant writer, shares his personal journey from the streets to success, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, community, and shattering barriers. Learn about the stark realities, the critical need for representation, and actionable strategies for creating a more inclusive and equitable landscape in the nonprofit world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand, support, and empower Black men in pursuing impactful careers in fundraising and advancement.

Register here now: https://bit.ly/Better-Member Ready to supercharge your fundraising and break through those mental roadblocks? Join Sabrina on "Sipping Tea with Sabrina" as she chats with Jeannie Dougherty, a Money Expert. They tackle the essential topic of "Asking for the Donation and What Gets in the Way." Jeannie shares her experiences as a mental health and substance abuse counselor in nonprofits, and dives into key barriers, the importance of storytelling and a consistent strategy for fundraising. Key Takeaways Include: Breaking free from shame and embracing a mindset of empowerment. Why you shouldn't rely solely on one source of funding. Practice the art of asking - it's more approachable than you think! Get clear on what they'll get if they give. What's the most common mistakes organizations make? Want to support nonprofit's and mission-driven companies? This episode is for you. Subscribe to buildingbetterboards.com and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Register here now: https://bit.ly/Better-Member   Ready to supercharge your fundraising and break through those mental roadblocks? Join Sabrina on "Sipping Tea with Sabrina" as she chats with Jeannie Dougherty, a Money Expert. They tackle the essential topic of "Asking for the Donation and What Gets in the Way." Jeannie shares her experiences as a mental health and substance abuse counselor in nonprofits, and dives into key barriers, the importance of storytelling and a consistent strategy for fundraising. Key Takeaways Include: Breaking free from shame and embracing a mindset of empowerment. Why you shouldn't rely solely on one source of funding. Practice the art of asking - it's more approachable than you think! Get clear on what they'll get if they give. What's the most common mistakes organizations make? Want to support nonprofit's and mission-driven companies? This episode is for you. Subscribe to buildingbetterboards.com and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Register here now: https://bit.ly/Better-Member Are you finding it tough to recruit passionate and effective board members for your nonprofit or organization in a small town? You're not alone! This episode features Bryan Partee of Nonprofit Marketplace as he shares invaluable insights and practical strategies specifically tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities of board recruitment in rural communities. Bryan dives into how to identify hidden talent, overcome common recruitment hurdles, and build a diverse and engaged board that will champion your mission. Whether you're a board chair, executive director, or simply passionate about strengthening your local organization, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can implement right away.

Register now: https://bit.ly/Better-Member Feeling suffocated by board micromanagement? You're not alone! This episode tackles a crucial challenge faced by many non-profit CEOs. Learn practical strategies and insights to maintain autonomy, align with organizational goals, and cultivate a healthy working relationship with your board. Tune in to discover how to navigate tricky situations with grace, confidence, and effectiveness. This show covers open communications, expectations, trustworthiness, metrics, and more. Key Highlights: Understanding the pitfalls of board micromanagement. Establishing clear roles, boundaries, and expectations. Building trust and demonstrating competency. Delegating effectively and providing transparent updates. Creating a collaborative environment that fosters mutual respect.

Want a high-performing nonprofit board that actively supports your mission? Stop relying on generic fundraising asks! This episode dives deep into the importance of creating clear and actionable fundraising "pathways" for your board members. Learn how to: Define specific fundraising goals and pathways. Incorporate board-generated fundraising into your budget. Structure events like galas and auctions for maximum impact. Communicate effectively and hold your board accountable without seeming "bossy." Plan your 2024 fundraising strategy for success! Plus, get insights into building a strong nomination committee and ensuring a clear path to fundraising success from the moment a board member is recruited. Whether you're a CEO, development director, or board member, this is a must-listen for transforming your fundraising approach. #nonprofit #fundraising #

Join Sabrina for a lively discussion on "How to Do a Kick-Ass Special Event" on this episode of Sipping Tea with Sabrina! Sabrina, a nonprofit coach and consultant, welcomes event planning expert Melissa Smith from DipJar to the show. In this episode, they cover: The key elements of a successful event including how to plan and execute events that make an impact, not just those small serial events. How to plan and execute an 850-person gala plus ways to incorporate community-style events Strategies for how to create unique, engaging fundraising events. and innovative ideas to make your event stand out, including how to get past simply asking for donations. Insights on how to leverage LinkedIn effectively Budgeting tips for special events, particularly when catering and venue costs are high. Tips on engaging your board and getting sponsors. This episode provides lots of tips, whether you’re organizing a small local fundraiser or a grand gala!

Is your nonprofit board feeling stale? Start the new year strong with a revitalized and engaged board! Join Sabrina as she dives into essential strategies for maximizing the impact of your board members. In this podcast, she shares proven methods for resetting your board's direction, aligning their efforts with your mission, and fostering effective communication. Learn how to evaluate your board's strengths, fill critical skill gaps, and get everyone on the same page. Plus, discover the secret to holding your board accountable without seeming too bossy! Sabrina reveals communication techniques tailored to individual board member styles and underscores the importance of providing essential resources for their success. Don't miss this actionable guide for unlocking the full potential of your board and driving your organization forward in the new year!

Ever been handed the reins of an organization only to discover you've inherited a board member (or worse, a whole board!) that just…doesn't like you? In this candid and insightful episode, I'm sharing my hard-earned lessons as a CEO navigating that exact situation. I'm diving deep into the challenges, strategies, and essential takeaways for anyone leading a nonprofit or organization when the boardroom dynamics are less than ideal. Here's what you'll discover in this episode: The "Board Member Who Doesn't Like You" Scenario: We tackle the uncomfortable reality of personality clashes within the board and explore how to handle it professionally (even when it's personal). Building Your "Board Champions": Learn the critical importance of cultivating allies and advocates within the board who understand and support your vision. I'll share how to develop these relationships and empower them to be your voice in challenging situations. Protecting Your Organization's Reputation: Discover the do's and don'ts of venting, especially in public spaces. Understand how to address issues without damaging the organization or harming individuals. "Removing" Board Members with Dignity: Get a strategic overview of the process for addressing difficult board members and making necessary changes while minimizing disruption and maintaining respect. Learn the tactics that you can implement in order to facilitate change. The CEO's Role in Board Recruitment: I emphasize the absolutely crucial role of the CEO in the board recruitment and interview process. I will give the tips that you can use and how to use them strategically. I'll address the importance of having an informal veto. I will also dive into how to do a listening tour. Policy Changes as a Catalyst: Explore how implementing specific policies (like mandatory board giving or background checks) can be a strategic tool to address problematic situations and drive necessary change. The Power of the Board Matrix: Understand how to use a board matrix to identify gaps in skills and experience and proactively recruit board members who can fill those needs. Recap of Lessons Learned: As an executive, you will discover some lessons and strategies to improve on. This episode is for you if: You're a new CEO stepping into an organization with an existing board. You're dealing with difficult or disruptive board members. You want to proactively build a strong and supportive board. You're looking for strategies to lead with confidence and integrity in challenging boardroom dynamics. You're you want to strategically change an ineffective board. You want to improve the interviewing process. Don't forget to: Subscribe to my channel for more insights on nonprofit leadership and management. Share this podcast with fellow CEOs and board members who could benefit from these strategies. 

In this powerful and insightful episode of Sipping Tea with Sabrina, host Sabrina Walker Hernandez, Dream Team Architect and expert in building elite nonprofit boards, welcomes grant writing expert Tarecka Brown to demystify the world of nonprofit funding. Tired of feeling overwhelmed by grant applications and unsure if your organization is truly "grant ready?" This episode is your ultimate guide! Sabrina and Tarecka dive deep into the essential components that funders look for, going beyond just having your 501(c)(3) status. They address the critical role of your board, the importance of a strong mission and vision, and the often-overlooked need for investing in professional development. Tarecka shares practical, actionable strategies that you can implement now to increase your organization's chances of success. She even gives her links and mentions resources at SourceHub Global. Here's what you'll discover in this episode: The Real Definition of "Grant Ready": Beyond the paperwork – what funders really want to see. The Power of a Giving Board: Why 100% board participation in financial contributions is crucial and how to make it happen (Tarecka and Sabrina discuss this in depth and Sabrina mentions the 4 quarters of funding). Knowing Your Mission and Vision: How to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with funders and aligns with your organization's long-term goals. Investing in Professional Development: Why training and skill-building for your team is a must-have in your budget and how it demonstrates your organization's commitment to excellence. Strategic Fundraising Beyond Major Grants: Tarecka's insights on how starting small and asking for "in-kind" donations can build your organization's brand, network, and credibility (and how to highlight those sponsors!) Board Member Responsibilities: Sabrina and Tarecka emphasize that who you list as your board has a direct impact on whether or not grants are approved. Subscribe to Sipping Tea with Sabrina for more insights, strategies, and inspiration for nonprofit leaders! Leave a review and share this episode with your network. Your mission matters – let's get it funded!

Are you a nonprofit leader, visionary entrepreneur, or passionate changemaker ready to take your organization to the next level? Do you dream of securing crucial funding to fuel your mission, but feel overwhelmed by the grant application process? Then grab your favorite brew and settle in for a transformative episode of Sipping Tea with Sabrina! This week, host Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Dream Team Architect and expert in building high-performing nonprofits, sits down with Terecka Brown, a seasoned grant consultant and owner of Melanin Solutions LLC, to spill the tea on everything you need to know to become "grant ready." In this can't-miss episode, you'll discover: The Fundamental Building Blocks: Learn the essential components (budget, business, plan) and criteria that grant-giving organizations look for before they even read your proposal. Strategic Planning Secrets: Understand the critical role strategic planning plays in crafting successful grant applications and aligning your organizational goals with funding opportunities. Storytelling that Sells: Master the art of weaving compelling narratives that resonate with funders' values, showcase your organization's impact, and tug at their heartstrings. Common Pitfalls to Avoid: Steer clear of costly mistakes that can derail your chances of securing funding, from rushing applications to neglecting your board's engagement. How to Make Yourself Knowledgeable as an Owner: Learning how to educate yourself in the grant process. Terecka Brown will share: How to ensure your legal and financial foundation is solid, from LLC status to EINs and bank accounts. The importance of crafting clear need statements and calls to action that compel funders to invest. Effective strategies for documenting your organization's impact through photos, videos, and engaging website content. Insider tips on creating an executive summary that grabs attention and compels grant reviewers to delve deeper. The truth about working with Grant Writers and how to understand how they can help and where you are failing in getting your grants. Plus, Terecka Brown provides actionable advice and real-world examples to empower you to approach grant applications with confidence and clarity. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the secrets to securing the funding your organization deserves! Whether you're a grant writing novice or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with invaluable insights that will revolutionize your fundraising approach and propel your mission forward. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to transform your organization into a grant-winning powerhouse!

In this empowering episode, Sabrina Walker Hernandez dives deep into the vital leadership quality of courage for non-profit CEOs. Learn how taking risks and being transparent can build trust with staff, board members, and donors alike. Discover practical strategies to overcome the fear of failure, communicate effectively about challenges, and empower your team to achieve greater success. Key takeaways include: What courageous leadership truly means in a non-profit context. The importance of trust and transparency with stakeholders. How to share the good, the bad, and the ugly, in a way that fosters opportunities. Tips for delegating and empowering your staff. Overcoming the fear of the ask with donors. Actionable steps to build your own courage and leadership skills. Packed with personal anecdotes and real-world advice, this podcast is a must-listen for any non-profit leader looking to elevate their organization and make a lasting impact.

In this episode of Sipping Tea with Sabrina, we dive into the fascinating world of nonprofit boards and explore why Sabrina loves working with these dedicated individuals. Often seen as a necessary component, board members can be a source of immense strength and positive change for an organization. But how do we harness their potential and address common misconceptions that can hinder their effectiveness? Sabrina gets candid about the unique qualities that draw her to working with board members: their initial "yes" to serving, their commitment to the mission, and their willingness to contribute their time, talent, and treasure. However, she also acknowledges the challenges that can arise, stemming from a lack of proper training and preconceived notions about the nonprofit sector. In this episode, you'll discover: The Power of "Yes": Why the initial commitment of board members is so valuable and how to nurture their passion. Addressing Misconceptions: Unpacking common myths about nonprofit operations, fundraising, and the roles of board members vs. the CEO. The Importance of Education: Why ongoing board training is crucial to align expectations, build skills, and create a winning team. Succession Planning: How to build a strong succession plan for board leadership, fostering continuity and strategic growth. Creating a Winning Team: How to mold raw talent, invest in board member development, and establish clear roles and responsibilities. Fundraising and Financial Sustainability: Overcoming the misconception that nonprofits don't need to fundraise and exploring the importance of cash reserves and endowments. Coaching Leadership: Stepping into the mindset of a coach for board members. Sabrina shares practical advice for CEOs and board chairs on how to: Implement a thorough board recruitment process. Provide comprehensive board education. Address negative behaviors and establish clear boundaries. Foster a collaborative and strategic environment. This episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit leader looking to unlock the full potential of their board, cultivate a high-performing team, and achieve their organization's mission with greater impact. Tune in to learn how to transform your board from a potential challenge into your greatest asset!