What Works: Conversations on Nonprofit Leadership with Marla Moody

The nonprofit fundraising playbook is broken and most organizations are still running on outdated strategies that quietly drain donor trust, stall growth, and limit real impact. In a world driven by data, digital engagement, and rising donor expectations, the uncomfortable reality is this: relationship driven fundraising beats transactional tactics every time. Global nonprofits, development leaders, and fundraising professionals are being forced to rethink donor engagement, capital campaigns, and sustainable revenue growth or risk becoming irrelevant.In this powerful episode, Michael Collins, Managing Director of Development Operations and Donor Engagement at iMentor, shares over 20 years of frontline nonprofit leadership experience. Having worked across small community nonprofits and large national organizations, Michael brings deep expertise in grants, special events, capital campaigns, major gifts, and individual giving at every level.From modern donor engagement strategy to nonprofit growth frameworks, this conversation dives into what actually drives sustainable fundraising success in today’s digital nonprofit landscape.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits

In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody speaks with Burt Rosen, co-founder of Hold On To Hope, about his journey through personal loss and how it shaped his leadership in the nonprofit sector. They discuss the importance of planned transitions in leadership, the impact of grief on purpose, and the role of transparency in healing. Bert shares his experiences of navigating the pain of having a missing son and how that led to a deeper commitment to serving others in need. In this conversation, Burt Rosen shares his profound journey of empathy and hope stemming from personal experiences with his son, Matthew, who faced homelessness. He discusses the importance of treating individuals with dignity and respect, the complexities of hope during difficult times, and the significance of self-care for leaders. Burt also introduces the 'Hold On to Hope' initiative, aimed at supporting families with missing loved ones, emphasizing community engagement and the need for resources to help those in distress.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody speaks with Vanessa Volz, the president and CEO of Sojourner House, about the complexities and challenges of leading a nonprofit organization. They discuss the importance of sustainability, the growth journey of Sojourner House, the impact of COVID-19 on service demand, and the significance of self-care for nonprofit leaders. Vanessa shares insights on building a supportive organizational culture, the need for long-term solutions for clients, and the importance of having a vision in nonprofit leadership. The conversation emphasizes the critical role nonprofits play in community health and the necessity of collaboration with for-profit sectors to enhance service delivery.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and connection at conferences, highlighting that while online education is valuable, the real benefits come from personal interactions and relationships formed during informal settings.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

In this conversation, Edward Amey , CEO of Jay Nolan Community Services , discusses the organization's mission to create inclusive communities for individuals with neurodiversity. He shares insights on the importance of changing societal language around neurodiversity, the challenges faced by nonprofits, and the need for community engagement and contribution. Edward emphasizes the value of relationships and the potential of individuals to contribute uniquely to society, highlighting the organization's initiatives in affordable housing and inclusive recreational services. In this conversation, Edward discusses the importance of inclusion in the workplace, emphasizing how individuals with autism can contribute significantly to society. He shares insights on leadership, the necessity of consistent messaging, and nurturing talent within an organization. Edward highlights the importance of valuing employees and creating a supportive culture, while also addressing the balance between profit and people. He discusses strategies for recognizing employee efforts and preventing burnout, ultimately concluding with thoughts on effective leadership and managing change.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

In this conversation, Coach Marla and Scott Schubert discuss the complexities of nonprofit leadership, focusing on the challenges faced by leaders, the importance of creating a joyful workplace, and the need for effective talent management. Scott shares his experiences transitioning from a nonprofit CEO to a for-profit venture, emphasizing the significance of collective decision-making and empowering others in leadership roles. The discussion highlights the emotional aspects of leadership transitions and the importance of preparing organizations for change. In this conversation, Scott Schubert shares his journey as a nonprofit leader, reflecting on the importance of empathy, work-life balance, and the impact of stress on leadership. He discusses the need for leaders to manage their own anxiety to foster a healthier organizational culture. Scott also emphasizes the value of taking time off and the role of technology in streamlining nonprofit operations, allowing for more meaningful human connections. The discussion concludes with insights on embracing change and the future of nonprofit work.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

The conversation explores the grant writing process as a means to reframe the narrative around charity work, emphasizing the importance of agency and leadership among community members. It discusses how negotiating with grantors can lead to social change and larger impacts within communities.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody and Stacey Efaw, director of Sailor Freedom, discuss the challenges and strategies of nonprofit leadership, particularly in the context of emotional health and self-care. They explore the mission of Sailor Freedom in combating sex trafficking, the importance of prevention, and the need for gratitude and celebration of successes within the organization. The discussion also covers staff well-being, the significance of collaboration, and the necessity of strategic planning and delegation in nonprofit work.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

In this conversation, Coach Marla and Megan Steckly discuss the mission and impact of CompuDopt, a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the digital divide. They explore the organization's innovative approach to providing technology access, digital literacy, and technology education to underserved communities. Megan shares insights on the challenges and growth experienced during the pandemic, the importance of fostering leadership within the organization, and the broader implications of education gaps on economic mobility. In this conversation, Coach Marla and Megan Steckly explore the complexities of leadership, the importance of open-mindedness, and the challenges of hiring the right talent. They discuss the discomfort that comes with leadership roles, the value of diverse teams, and the necessity of adapting to changing environments. Megan emphasizes the importance of starting with a 'yes' mindset and the need for organizations to diversify their revenue streams to ensure sustainability. The conversation also highlights the significance of community involvement and the impact of nonprofit work.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)

In this conversation, Marla Moody interviews Mark Dhooge, the President and CEO of Kids in Distress, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing child abuse and supporting families. Mark shares his journey from law enforcement to child advocacy, emphasizing the importance of an upstream approach to child welfare. He discusses the challenges of shifting organizational focus, the significance of metrics in demonstrating impact, and the necessity of fostering a supportive culture to combat burnout. Mark also reflects on leadership transitions and the importance of empowering team members to find solutions.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)

In this conversation, Coach Marla and Denise Spivak discuss the importance of building community and supporting individuals within the nonprofit sector, particularly focusing on LGBTQ centers. Denise shares her journey with CenterLink, emphasizing the need for continuous learning, the balance of leadership roles, and the significance of fair compensation for nonprofit workers. They also explore the challenges faced by caregivers and the emotional toll of working in this sector, highlighting the need for self-care and support for those providing care. In this conversation, Denise Spivak discusses the importance of organizational support for employees, particularly in times of crisis. She emphasizes the need for reminding staff about available resources, such as employee assistance programs, and the significance of providing time off to alleviate stress. The discussion also highlights the role of community resilience and the ripple effects of support within the LGBTQ community, showcasing how individual acts of care can lead to broader societal benefits.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)

In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody speaks with Justus Zimmerman , the CEO of the Austin Symphony Orchestra, about the unique challenges and opportunities faced by nonprofit leaders, particularly in the arts sector. Justice shares his journey from a background in acting and entrepreneurship to leading a historic organization. They discuss the profound impact of the arts on society, the importance of empathy, and the challenges of engaging a diverse audience in a rapidly changing city. Justus emphasizes the need for clear mission definition, navigating resistance to change, and the significance of developing talent within lean organizations. The conversation concludes with reflections on community engagement and the responsibilities of leadership in the nonprofit sector.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)

In this conversation, Coach Marla and Roberto Viramontes discuss the complexities and challenges of merging two nonprofit organizations into one. Airplex Learning and Development Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that, in partnership with Fairplex, provides a wide spectrum of innovative and enriching educational experiences that bring learning to life, benefit our diverse communities, and prepare our participants for success. Roberto shares insights from his experience at the Fairplex Learning Development Center, highlighting the importance of cultural integration, effective communication, and a clear mission statement. They explore the challenges faced during the merger process, including legal and financial considerations, staff concerns, and the need for a new organizational cultureThe discussion emphasizes the significance of viewing nonprofit work as social impact rather than charity, and the importance of a strong team in navigating the complexities of nonprofit operations. Roberto also shares lessons learned from the merger process, particularly regarding fundraising and the importance of establishing a clear identity for the new organization. In this conversation, Roberto Viramontes discusses the complexities and challenges faced during mergers in the nonprofit sector, particularly in philanthropy. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication, effective delegation, and balancing resources with community needs. The dialogue also touches on the resistance to change within organizations and the necessity for leaders to navigate these challenges while maintaining a focus on their vision and goals.To find out more go to https://fairplex.com/We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)

In this conversation, Kimberly Lewis, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries in Texas, shares her journey into nonprofit leadership and the mission of Goodwill as a social enterprise. She discusses the importance of fiscal sustainability, innovative community programs, and the value of investing in employees. Kimberly emphasizes the need for effective communication of organizational values, strategies for preventing burnout, and the significance of supportive communities for emerging leaders. The discussion highlights how Goodwill's model serves as a blueprint for other nonprofits aiming to create impactful change in their communities.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention

In this episode of What Works, host Marla Moody speaks with Scott Sabin, executive director of Plant with Purpose, about the transformative power of nonprofit leadership. Scott shares insights from over three decades of experience in community development, emphasizing the importance of local partnerships, cultural sensitivity, and the need for sustainable change. He discusses the impact of savings groups in empowering communities, the significance of finishing well in leadership transitions, and the value of maintaining relationships as organizations grow. The conversation also touches on the importance of values in nonprofit strategy and offers advice for young leaders looking to make a difference.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention

In this episode of 'What Works', host Marla Moody speaks with Craig Rice, CEO of Manna Food Center, about the intersection of public service and nonprofit leadership. They discuss Craig Rice's journey from politics to nonprofit work, the challenges faced in managing a nonprofit, and the importance of developing talent within the organization. The conversation also touches on addressing burnout, the significance of storytelling in nonprofit work, and the need for compassionate leadership. Craig emphasizes the importance of community involvement and how individuals can contribute to nonprofit efforts.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)

In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody interviews Paula Del Giudice, the executive director of Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center. They discuss the transformative power of equine therapy, the evolution of nonprofit leadership, and the challenges of talent acquisition and retention in the nonprofit sector. Paula shares insights on creating a supportive work environment, the importance of communication, and the role of volunteers. They also address the issues of burnout and compassion fatigue, particularly in nonprofit work, and encourage women to pursue leadership roles. The conversation concludes with a touching story about the impact of horses in therapy and an invitation for listeners to engage with the nonprofit community.

In this conversation, Coach Marla and Rich Schaus discuss the importance of listening to those served in nonprofit work, the unique challenges of rural homelessness, and the significance of building trust and relationships. Rich shares his journey into nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the need for self-care among leaders and the power of collaboration with other organizations. They explore the impact of donor expectations and practical ways to support the homeless community, highlighting the importance of acknowledging humanity and fostering genuine connections.

In this episode of What Works, host Marla Moody speaks with Paul Robinson, the president and CEO of Home of the Innocents, about the intersection of business practices and nonprofit leadership. They discuss the importance of core values, integrity, and creating a trauma-informed environment within organizations. Paul shares insights from his journey transitioning from the business world to leading a nonprofit, emphasizing the need for a balance between financial sustainability and mission-driven work. The conversation also highlights the challenges of change management and the significance of fostering a supportive culture for both staff and the vulnerable populations they serve.We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there. Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

Meeting the Hunger Crisis Together - special edition of WhatWorksFind a food bank in your community:  feedingamerica.orgCraig Rice with Manna Food Center : https://www.mannafood.org/Cathy Kanefsky with Food Bank of Delaware : https://www.fbd.org/“Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to Meeting the Hunger Crisis Together: Rising demand, shrinking resources—but endless compassion. I’m [Your Name], and I’m deeply honored to be here with two voices at the forefront of confronting food insecurity: Craig Rice of Manna Food Center, and Cathy Kanefsky of the Food Bank of Delaware.We’re gathering today because the challenge is real — and growing. Across the U.S., 13.5 percent of households experienced food insecurity at some point in 2023. Economic Research Service+1 That’s 18 million households—of which more than 6.8 million endured very low food security, meaning their eating patterns were significantly disrupted by lack of resources. Economic Research ServiceIn Delaware alone, in 2023, 134,320 people faced hunger — including 37,920 children. Food Bank of Delaware And right now, Cathy and her team are dealing with yet another strain: the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently canceled 19 scheduled deliveries to the Food Bank of Delaware, representing nearly 900,000 meals that were expected to feed neighbors in need. Delaware Public MediaAs we gather on this livestream, let’s think together about both urgency and possibility. We’ll explore what’s working on the ground, how we’re meeting unprecedented demand with limited resources, and where we can lean more deeply into community, innovation, and compassion.Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/#whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.