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

What happens when lived experience, science, and nonprofit leadership collide? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr. to discuss health equity, cancer care gaps, and what it truly takes to design programs that serve communities that have been overlooked for far too long. We explore how focus, intentionality, and listening to the people most impacted can turn complex equity challenges into meaningful, measurable action. Episode Highlights 02:32 Dr. Manley's Personal Journey and Inspiration 04:01 Challenges in the Hospital System 05:24 Launching the STEM and Cancer Equity Foundation 06:18 Addressing Health Disparities and Patient Advocacy 10:11 The Importance of Early Exposure to STEM 11:01 Navigating Academia and Nonprofit Work 11:57 The Lung Cancer Health Equity Summit 16:03 Fiscal Sponsorship for Nonprofits 19:46 Defining and Addressing Health Equity 22:03 Challenges in Lung Cancer Clinical Trials My guest for this episode is Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr., PhD, MS. Dr. Eugene Manley, Jr., PhD, MS, is a biomedical scientist-turned-social impact leader and the Founder & CEO of the STEMM & Cancer Health Equity (SCHEQ) Foundation. He brings 20+ years across engineering, molecular and cell biology, nonprofit strategy, and workforce development, with prior leadership at leading cancer organizations. He had worked in development at the AACR, grant system administration at LCRF, and directed national STEM and workforce initiatives and health equity initiatives at LUNGevity Foundation.   Through SCHEQ, he advances STEMM workforce diversity and patient-centered solutions across the cancer care continuum, producing health-literacy resources, convening cross-sector stakeholders, and leading the Lung Cancer Interventions Summit to drive practical, equity-focused outcomes for underserved communities. He serves on local, national, and international advisory boards advocating for Medicaid, rural, and historically marginalized patients. Dr. Manley serves on the Stony Brook Cancer Community Advisory Council, PCORI advisory panels focused on healthcare delivery and comparative clinical effectiveness, and has co-authored a perspective work with the American Cancer Society's National Lung Cancer Roundtable on compassion and stigma in lung cancer care. His lived experience, research background, outreach, and policy engagement inform a pragmatic approach to closing gaps in screening, biomarker testing, trial access, and survivorship. Connect with Dr. Eugene: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenemanleyjrphd https://www.linkedin.com/company/stemmcheq https://www.facebook.com/stemmcheq https://www.instagram.com/stemmcheq https://www.instagram.com/manleyeugene 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.

Struggling to find great board members—and feeling stuck with the same advice that isn't working? Today's conversation is all about why board recruitment feels so hard (hint: it's not you) and what actually makes board service appealing to the right people. We'll reset what "skilled" really means, talk about the expectations that quietly scare good candidates away, and walk through practical ways to attract thoughtful, committed board members who can provide strong oversight without creating more work or drama. Episode Highlights 01:16 Struggling to Find Great Board Members? 02:03 Common Misconceptions About Board Members 03:50 Qualities of a Great Board Member 05:15 Making the Board Role More Attractive 06:49 Finding Potential Board Members 09:53 Effective Outreach Strategies 11:17 Building a Collaborative Board Culture 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.

Ever feel like decisions in your nonprofit take forever… or worse, no one knows who's actually supposed to make them? In this episode, I break down why unclear decision-making slows your organization to a crawl, how to fix confusion between staff and the board, and the simple tools that help teams move faster without chaos. If delays are costing you time, money, and client well-being, this one will bring some welcome clarity. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction and Funny Story 01:51 Today's Topic: Decision Making in Organizations 04:43 Clarifying Board Decision Making 07:53 Guiding Principles for Decision Making 11:23 Functions and Outcomes in Nonprofits 13:16 Heads and Hands Roles in Teams 16:30 Conclusion and Further Resources 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.

If you've ever found yourself juggling way too many projects and somehow making less progress than ever, you're in the right place. In this training, I break down why overcommitment slows you down, how context switching quietly steals your entire workday, and the simple system I use to help nonprofit leaders reclaim time, reduce overwhelm, and actually finish what they start. Grab your coffee, breathe for a second, and let's untangle this mess together. Episode Highlights 02:17 The Problem with Overcommitting 03:11 Understanding Context Switching 05:01 The Impact of Anxiety on Productivity 06:48 The Impact Method: A Solution to Overcommitting 07:49 Implementing the Impact Method 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.

If major donor work keeps slipping to the bottom of your to-do list, you're not alone. In this episode, we dig into why getting started feels so darn hard, what's really behind the procrastination, and how to take simple, doable steps that actually build momentum. My guest, Lieve Hendren, brings years of experience helping nonprofits build mission-aligned donor relationships, and together we unpack how to move from "I know I should" to "I'm actually doing this… and it feels good." Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction: The Best Time to Act is Now 00:09 The Importance of Diversifying Funding 00:16 Challenges in Implementing Strategies 00:21 Executive Directors' Dilemma 00:29 The Importance of Regular Strategy Conversations Meet the Guest My guest for this episode is Lieve. Lieve (lee-va) Hendren is an Executive Coach helping nonprofit leaders build mission-aligned relationships and launch or revitalize major donor programs. She's interviewed 420+ philanthropists and specializes in campaigns ranging from $8M to $400M. Author of The Joyful Flow Formula, Lieve shares a 3-step method to replace burnout with inspired productivity. She's worked with organizations like AdventHealth Foundation, Chicago Public Schools, Coca-Cola, and Save the Sound, and was part of the founding team at Predata, later acquired by FiscalNote. Lieve holds a degree from Princeton, is a certified coach, and is pursuing a master's in neuroscience of mental health at King's College London. Connect with Lieve: Website: https://lievehendren.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lievehendren/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lhendren Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lieve.hendren Book Page: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CTD8CBD4 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.

If you've ever felt confused about OKRs—or wondered why they seem helpful in theory but clunky in practice—this episode is for you. I break down what OKRs were supposed to do, why the language trips people up, and a clearer way to plan your goals by separating what you can control from what you can't. You'll walk away with a simple, practical framework for setting outcomes, actions, and metrics that actually move your mission forward. Episode Highlights 01:16 Introduction to OKRs 01:44 Understanding OKRs 04:35 Critique of OKRs 06:04 Improving OKRs 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.

Ever wish your team would stop handing every decision back to you? In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Levy to talk about building self-reliant teams, simplifying processes, and unlocking the hidden potential inside your organization. Lisa breaks down how to reduce chaos, boost confidence, and tap into the full brainpower of your staff—without adding more meetings or more stress. If you've ever dreamed of a team that can actually run things without you hovering, this is the episode to hit play on. Episode Highlights 02:01 Networking and leadership challenges 03:05 Lean Six Sigma and the Adaptive Transformation Framework 09:47 Building self-reliant teams 16:01 The Innovation Engine concept 19:43 Spotting and developing emerging leaders 24:11 Process improvement wins and fixes My guest for this episode is Lisa L. Levy. Lisa L. Levy is a dynamic business strategist, best-selling author, and founder of Lcubed Consulting, where for over 16 years she has helped visionary founders and leadership teams scale with confidence and agility. As a certified Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt and Project Management Professional, Lisa's work focuses on aligning people, processes, and technology to eliminate chaos and drive sustainable impact.   Her proprietary Adaptive Transformation™ Framework has helped thousands of organizations boost productivity and foster self-reliant teams. A #1 best-selling author of Future Proofing Cubed, Lisa is also the host of the "Disrupt and Innovate" podcast and has been recognized as one of the Best Women Leaders of 2021. She brings over two decades of expertise across sectors—including nonprofits—to help mission-driven organizations thrive in an ever-changing world. Connect with Lisa: Website: https://lisallevy.com/ Consulting: https://lcubedconsulting.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisallevy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/lcubedconsulting 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.

Budgets shouldn't feel like punishment math. In this episode, I break down how to use the Jobs to Be Done framework to make your budget actually useful. You'll learn why budgets should change as you learn, how to stop obsessing over budget-vs-actuals, and how to build a financial tool that shows what really matters: what things cost, what results you're getting, and where to invest for the biggest impact. Episode Highlights 01:46 Understanding the Jobs to Be Done Framework 02:44 Evaluating Budget Effectiveness 07:21 Re-envisioning Financial Tools 12:00 Practical Budgeting 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®️, 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 nonprofit leaders stop chasing every idea and start focusing on simplicity, clarity, and what really matters? In this episode, we dig into how to cut through the noise, strengthen your operations, and lead with purpose—without overcomplicating your mission. You'll learn why scaling often means doing less, how to rethink old constraints, and what it really takes to build an organization that thrives for the long haul. Episode Highlights 01:15 Meet Eric Newman: A Story of Resilience and Purpose 03:05 The Power of Storytelling in Nonprofits 06:38 Building Rock Solid Foundation: From Zero to Millions 10:39 Overcoming Nonprofit Constraints and Myths 18:16 The Journey of Building a Team 18:52 Overcoming Financial Challenges 19:56 The Importance of Vision and Scalability 27:41 The Power of Simplicity in Scaling 31:21 Focusing on the Mission My guest for this episode is Eric Newman. Eric's story of turning life's toughest challenges into a passion project has touched the lives of thousands. Eric Newman is a pediatric cancer survivor and founder of Roc Solid Foundation, a nonprofit that brings joy to kids fighting cancer by building playsets and delivering hospital-ready bags to families. Since 2009, Roc Solid has partnered with 160+ hospitals and served over 4,500 families. Eric is the bestselling author of What Hope Looks Like, host of the Success and Significance podcast, and a sought-after speaker on purpose-driven leadership. His story has been featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show and in a short film about his journey.   Connect with Eric: Instagram: @theericnewman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theericnewman/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-newman/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theericnewman 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.

Tired of scrambling to keep up with donors? You're not alone. In this episode, I break down how to build consistent, meaningful donor communication without adding more overwhelm to your plate. You'll learn why simple, frequent updates matter more than perfectly polished newsletters, how to engage supporters weekly in a way that feels natural, and when it might be time to increase staff capacity so donor relationships don't fall through the cracks. If you want stronger retention and deeper donor loyalty, this one's for you. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Donor Communication 00:28 The Importance of Consistent Donor Follow-Up 02:07 Increasing Capacity for Donor Communication 03:52 Effective Donor Communication Strategies 04:58 Simple Ways to Engage with Donors 06:55 Leveraging Staff Meetings for Content 10:06 Conclusion: Mastering Weekly Communications 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 if your nonprofit could fight poverty at the systems level? Learn how Rob Hanson reimagines philanthropy, leverages 501(c)(4)s, and moves beyond charity to lasting change—backed by $65M in social investments and a powerful personal journey. Episode Highlights 01:15 Meet Rob Hansen: A Journey of Social Change 03:52 Understanding Nonprofit Structures: 501(c)(3) vs 501(c)(4) 07:26 The Impact of Systems Change 11:17 Navigating Legal and Financial Complexities 17:13 Addressing Policy Changes and Their Impact 23:07 The Importance of Flexibility and Listening Meet the Guest My guest for this episode is Rob Hansen. Rob Hansen is a nonprofit leader with over two decades of experience driving social change. His personal journey out of poverty has fueled his passion for empowering others to shape their own destinies. As the Founder and President of Goodnation since 2018, Rob has orchestrated the deployment of over $65 million towards ambitious social initiatives. In 2024, Rob spearheaded Goodnation's Prosperity Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at eradicating poverty in America. His expertise extends beyond Goodnation, having previously led fundraising efforts for renowned organizations focused on health, youth development, and veteran support. A highlight of Rob's career includes his tenure at the Robin Hood Foundation, where he managed corporate and foundation fundraising. During a significant economic downturn in New York City, he played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and executing the $100 million Robin Responds campaign. Rob is a vocal advocate for transformative change in America, frequently addressing donor and nonprofit audiences. His thought leadership will be showcased in the Stanford Social Innovation Review in May 2025, with his article "Breaking Out of the c3 Box," which advocates for a more expansive utilization of available tools to effect change. Connect with Rob: Website: https://www.goodnation.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-hansen-b455803/ 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.

Ever feel like your nonprofit decisions are all over the map? The Cynefin Framework (pronounced "ku-nev-in") can help you make sense of chaos. In this episode, I break down how to tell whether your situation is clear, complicated, complex, or downright chaotic—and how to respond effectively in each case. You'll learn when to follow best practices, when to experiment, and when to take bold action so you can lead with clarity no matter what's happening around you. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction: The Value of Good Solutions 00:22 Understanding Expert Practices 00:35 When to Seek Expert Help 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.

Want to raise more money without adding more work? In this episode, I break down the three simple levers that can exponentially increase your donor lifetime value. You'll learn how to make small, strategic changes, like improving retention, boosting average gifts, and increasing giving frequency, that add up to huge results. A little growth in each area can multiply your fundraising impact faster than you think. Episode Highlights 01:15 Main Topic: Growing Donor Lifetime Value 02:01 Three Key Levers to Increase Donor Value 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 if your nonprofit could generate more revenue without adding more chaos? In this episode, I talk with 30-year nonprofit veteran Rick Harris about how to stop relying on the same old income streams and start building new ones the smart way. We unpack practical strategies for diversifying revenue without spreading your team too thin, creative ideas for attracting sponsors, and how fair pay builds trust and retention across your organization. Episode Highlights 01:16 – Meet Rick Harris: Nonprofit Growth Expert 03:04 – The Importance of Diversification 06:17 – Avoiding the Scattergun Approach 12:05 – Innovative Sponsorship Ideas 18:56 – Navigating IRS Regulations and UBIT 29:25 – Equitable Pay in Nonprofits   My guest for this episode is Rick Harris. Rick is the CEO of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP), and a 30+ year non-profit veteran. Specializing in helping other non-profits grow their business through better membership, education, networking, marketing, and building communities, Rick is a go-to-market-now expert in the field of non-profit business growth. He is well known for helping non-profits achieve their goals through better business planning, marketing, and building their communities through his 20+ years in non-profit management. Connect with Rick: Website: http://www.apmp.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/apmp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/APMP.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.

Ever feel stuck—like no matter what you try, you're spinning your wheels? In this episode, I introduce the Five Drivers Framework by David Bayer, a powerful tool to help you uncover the root causes behind your results. You'll learn how your beliefs, thoughts, emotions, and actions work together to create outcomes—and how shifting one belief can change everything. Whether you're leading a team, fundraising, or just trying to get unstuck, this mindset framework will help you turn frustration into forward motion. Episode Highlights 00:29 Understanding the Five Drivers 02:50 The Power of Beliefs: The Four-Minute Mile Story 04:45 Applying the Five Drivers to Achieve Desired Results 05:44 Identifying and Reversing Limiting Beliefs 06:40 Steps to Change Limiting Beliefs 09:00 The Self-Reinforcing Cycle of Beliefs and Results 10:46 Conclusion and Call to Action 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 if your nonprofit could anticipate the future instead of reacting to it? In this episode, futurist and strategist Donna DuPont shares how leaders can build future literacy—the skill of reading change before it happens. We explore how to turn uncertainty into opportunity, overcome resistance to change, and design flexible strategies that thrive even in chaos. If your team feels stuck reacting to crises, this conversation will help you plan with confidence, not fear. Episode Highlights 04:25 Understanding Future Mindsets 06:57 Empowering Nonprofits Through Strategic Foresight 09:03 The Power of Great Questions 09:40 Collective Intelligence and Workshop Insights 15:09 The Rise of AI: A Case Study in Weak Signals 22:24 Opportunities in Crisis 24:43 Building a Case for Change 25:25 Understanding Dissatisfaction and Vision 27:26 Taking Action and Iteration 29:48 Navigating Uncertainty with Foresight 33:01 Evaluating Processes and Outcomes 38:42 Prototyping and Innovation Meet the Guest My guest for this episode is Donna Dupont, Founder and Chief Strategist of Purple Compass, is an award-winning designer and futurist with over 25 years of experience collaborating with leaders. She helps organizations build future literacy, navigate uncertainty, and drive impactful change. Combining systems thinking with strategic foresight, she empowers leaders to mitigate risks, enhance preparedness, and seize opportunities for innovation, transformation, and resilience. Recognized with seven government awards, Donna's work spans critical areas like climate change, health security, and emergency management, with her futures research earning accolades from the Canadian Defence and Security Network and the Association of Professional Futurists. Connect with Donna: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-dupont/ www.purplecompass.ca 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.

Does your fundraising only ramp up when the money's running low? You're not alone. In this episode, I'll show you how to stop scrambling for funds and start building a proactive fundraising strategy that keeps your nonprofit stable year-round. You'll learn how to shift from crisis-driven fundraising to relationship-driven sustainability—because the fastest path to cash (and calm) is building strong connections long before you need the money. Episode Highlights 04:36 Building a Sustainable Fundraising Plan 05:05 The Foundation: Individual Donors 06:39 Scaling Relationships with Digital Tools 08:34 Corporate Sponsorships and Grant 09:47 The Power of Relationships 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, what does it take to lead one of the largest and oldest nonprofits in a major city—and do it as the first woman in its 165-year history? In this episode, I talk with Lauren Koontz, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, about stepping into leadership, navigating crises, and building partnerships that truly serve the community. Lauren shares her journey from development officer to CEO, lessons learned through the pandemic, and why advocating for yourself and empowering others is essential for lasting impact. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction: The Y as a Third Place 00:04 Addressing Senior Loneliness and Isolation 00:09 Reaching Out to Seniors 00:17 Offering Help and Support 00:18 Delivering Essential Items   My guest for this episode is Lauren Koontz. Lauren Koontz is the President and CEO of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, where she became the first woman to lead the organization in its 165+ year history. She oversees 20+ branches, 19 early learning centers, 60+ afterschool sites, five camps, and thousands of staff and volunteers serving Atlanta's communities. Lauren joined the Y in 2012 and previously held leadership roles at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Emory University, and more. A recognized leader, she's been honored as one of Atlanta's Most Admired CEOs, a YWCA Academy of Women Achievers inductee, and a "40 Under 40" alum. She serves on numerous boards, speaks widely on nonprofit leadership, and is committed to advancing education, wellness, and youth development across the region. Connect with Lauren: Website: https://ymcaatlanta.org/ LinkedIn: Lauren Koontz 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, does your fundraising strategy feel complicated—or nonexistent? You're not alone. In this episode, I break fundraising down to three simple levers you can pull to get results: growing your qualified leads, improving donor conversions, and maximizing lifetime donor value. I'll show you how to simplify your approach, avoid overplanning, and build a strategy that actually works in the real world. Episode Highlights 01:11 Introduction to Fundraising Strategy 03:00 Three Key Fundraising Levers 03:56 Lever 1: Increasing Qualified Donor Leads 04:49 Lever 2: Improving Conversion Rates 06:21 Lever 3: Maximizing Donor Lifetime Value 07:45 Special Activity: Donor Referrals 09:00 Applying the Three Levers 12:10 Donor Categories and Strategies 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.