Claim OwnershipThe Nonprofit MBA Podcast with Stephen Halasnik
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The Nonprofit MBA Podcast's purpose is to provide new business insights and fresh creative ideas for Nonprofit Executive Directors and their teams that will help them improve their Nonprofit organizations.
Hosted by Stephen Halasnik, Managing Partner at Financing Solutions. Stephen sits down with Nonprofit executives and discusses ways to fundraise, forecast, and even fix your organization for a larger impact.
Financing Solutions is the leading provider of Lines of Credit to Nonprofits.
Hosted by Stephen Halasnik, Managing Partner at Financing Solutions. Stephen sits down with Nonprofit executives and discusses ways to fundraise, forecast, and even fix your organization for a larger impact.
Financing Solutions is the leading provider of Lines of Credit to Nonprofits.
198 Episodes
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As the world of fundraising constantly evolves, it is essential for non-profits to embrace the latest trends for long-term success. Digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, peer-to-peer fundraising, virtual and hybrid events, and strategic partnerships with corporations are all shaping the way non-profits engage with donors and make a difference in their respective communities. By remaining flexible, utilizing technology, and building meaningful relationships, non-profits will continue to bring about positive change in their communities. In today's podcast, Barbara O'Reilly from Windmill Hill Consulting and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss fundraising trends we're seeing at nonprofits.
Securing corporate sponsorships and philanthropic support is a crucial aspect of a nonprofit's success. To achieve this, nonprofits need to invest time and effort in creating a dedicated and strategic plan that involves thorough research and effective communication with potential partners. By aligning their mission with corporate values, nonprofits can create compelling partnerships that drive positive change in the community. Moreover, the dynamic landscape of corporate social responsibility offers nonprofits the opportunity to make a significant impact on society through collaborative efforts with businesses committed to making a difference. Hence, by leveraging their expertise and resources, nonprofits can help companies integrate social responsibility into their operations, resulting in a positive impact on society and the environment. In today's podcast, Lori Zoss from Growth Owl, LLC, and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss corporate sponsorship and corporate philanthropic support for nonprofits.
Nowadays, digital marketing, social media, and other forms of advanced communication systems are prevailing in lead generation. However, when done strategically, B2B cold calling remains a powerful tool in building and growing your business. By understanding your audience, crafting compelling scripts, and continuously refining your approach, you can use the personal touch of cold calls to establish meaningful connections and drive business success. So, endeavour to leverage the power of B2B cold calling and watch your business succeed. In today's Podcast, Robert Poole from Total Business Results and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss building your business through B2B cold calls.
Over the years, burnout among nonprofit leaders, employees, and volunteers has been a real and pervasive challenge. One could link it to the highly demanding nature of the job and, to some extent, the personalities of these individuals. However, a closer look at the issue has revealed that burnout could be reduced to the barest minimum if people understood what respect means to them. This is because people tend to have different views of what they think respect means to them. As a nonprofit leader, understanding what respect means to you and incorporating it into your organization's culture would make your job seamless, thereby reducing burnout. In today's podcast, Julie Pham from CuriosityBased and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss Reducing Burnout: The 7 Forms of Respect For Nonprofit Leaders.
Empowering non-profit leaders is an investment in the future of social change. When we provide them with the tools, resources, and support they need, we can amplify the positive impact of non-profit organizations around the world. Moreover, as these leaders thrive, they become beacons of inspiration, motivating others to join the cause and work collectively towards creating a better world. In today's podcast, Kathy Hadizadeh from Heart Mind Tuning and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss Empowering Non-Profit Leaders to Thrive and Inspire.
It is a fact that nonprofits are known for addressing a wide range of crucial societal issues. However, to maximize their impact, they must establish a strong brand identity that sets them apart. Nonprofits can achieve this by defining their mission and values, identifying a unique selling proposition, understanding their audience, crafting a compelling brand story, maintaining a consistent brand identity, leveraging digital marketing, collaborating, and continuously measuring their efforts. Remember, a strong brand not only attracts supporters but also ensures long-term sustainability and success in fulfilling its mission. In today's podcast, Celina Shands from Full Capacity Marketing, Inc. and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss how nonprofits can position their brand to solidify their niche.
Monthly giving programs are a powerful tool for building a resilient nonprofit organization. They provide a steady and predictable stream of revenue, foster donor loyalty, and allow nonprofits to plan and execute long-term projects. By following the steps outlined in this guide and continuously engaging with your monthly donors, your nonprofit can create a sustainable and lasting impact in your chosen field. Monthly giving not only benefits your organization's financial health but also strengthens the connection between your donors and your mission. In today's podcast, Ronald Pruitt from 4aGoodCause and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss how to build a resilient nonprofit through monthly giving.
Your board of directors can be an invaluable asset to your nonprofit's fundraising efforts. By establishing clear expectations, identifying areas of strength, and providing necessary training, your board can become a formidable fundraising team. With their passion and dedication, they can help you unlock the financial resources needed to drive your mission forward. So, begin harnessing the power of your board for fundraising and witness your organization thrive and make a lasting impact. In today's podcast, Wendy Steele from Impact100 Global and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss Unleashing the Power of Your Board For Fundraising.
Sustaining your organization's mission requires a strategic approach to fundraising, especially in an increasingly competitive nonprofit world. Hence, implementing a sustainer program is a decisive step toward financial stability, long-term sustainability, and a more significant impact. By building a base of committed sustainers, your nonprofit can secure its future, amplify its mission, and make a lasting difference in the world. So, if you haven't already, it's time to consider why your nonprofit needs a sustainer program and take the necessary steps to establish one. In today's podcast, Stephen King from GrowthForce and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss "why your nonprofit needs a sustainer program- improve donor retention by 80% in the first year".
Fraud prevention might not be the first thing on a nonprofit's mind when striving to make a positive impact, but its importance cannot be overstated. Protecting the organization's resources, reputation, and the trust of its supporters is a fundamental responsibility. By acknowledging the potential risks, dispelling misconceptions, and implementing robust prevention strategies, nonprofits can ensure their efforts remain dedicated to their mission and the communities they serve. Remember, proactive fraud prevention is not a sign of distrust but a testament to an organization's commitment to transparency and accountability. In this article, Stephen King from Growth Force and Steven Halasnik from Financial Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss Fraud Prevention in a Nonprofit: You Don't Know You Need It.
QuickBooks undoubtedly remains one of the leading accounting software options on the market. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive feature set, and adaptability make it a strong contender for businesses aiming to streamline their financial operations. Remember, the "right" solution ultimately depends on how well it aligns with your business requirements. In this article, Brad White from VARC Solutions and Steven Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss "Is Quickbooks the Right Solution for Your Business?"
As a nonprofit founder, strategic planning is your compass in the often complex and dynamic world of nonprofit work. It provides you with the tools to navigate challenges, allocate resources wisely, and make a lasting impact on the goal you're passionate about. By developing a comprehensive and flexible strategic plan, you set your organization on a path toward sustainable growth and meaningful change. Remember, while the journey might have twists and turns, a solid strategic plan ensures you're always headed in the right direction. In this podcast, Andrena Sawyer from P.E.R.K. Consulting and Steven Halasnik from financing solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss strategic planning for nonprofit founders.
In nonprofit governance, effective board relations are instrumental in ensuring the organization's longevity, impact, and sustainability. By following this fool-proof strategy encompassing transparent communication, role clarification, diversity, education, engagement, strategic planning, committees, evaluation, and relationship-building, nonprofit boards can pave the way for good governance and successful mission fulfillment. As the nonprofit landscape evolves, a dedicated and united board will remain a driving force behind the organization's meaningful contributions to society. In today's podcast, Brad Ward from Bradward Coaching and Steven Halasnik from Financial Solution (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss nonprofit board relations: a fool-proof strategy for good governance.
Fractional executives offer a game-changing resource for nonprofits seeking to increase their operations and create a more significant impact. By accessing specialized expertise, optimizing budgets, and fostering flexibility, nonprofits can navigate challenges with confidence and adaptability. Furthermore, fractional executives' mentorship and knowledge transfer enables sustainable growth and capacity building, strengthening the organization for the future. As the landscape of nonprofit management continues to evolve, embracing fractional executives can be a strategic move that empowers nonprofits to overcome obstacles, drive innovation, and leave a lasting positive imprint on society. By leveraging the power of these talented professionals, nonprofits can chart a course toward a more sustainable and impactful future. In today's podcast, Cindy Wagman from The Good Partnership, Inc. and Steven Halasnik from financing solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com) discuss how nonprofits can leverage fractional executives to level up.
In this episode of the Nonprofit MBA Podcast, host Stephen Halasnik speaks with Luke Mickelson, founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, about how a small garage-based Christmas project grew into a nearly $30 million nonprofit operating across the U.S. and beyond. Mickelson shares the key inflection points behind that growth, including realizing the scale of child bedlessness, transitioning to a formal nonprofit, leveraging a major media moment from Returning the Favor with Mike Rowe, and—most importantly—building the right governance structure, systems, and processes to sustain rapid expansion. The conversation explores why treating a nonprofit like a real business matters, how a "franchise-like" chapter model with a single EIN enabled scalable growth while preventing mission creep, and how COVID ultimately helped the organization slow down and professionalize operations. Mickelson also discusses the critical distinction between visionary founders and operational leaders, the necessity of investing in talent, and why long-term nonprofit success depends on strong leadership, clear roles, and disciplined execution of best practices.
In this episode of the Nonprofit MBA Podcast, Stephen Halasnik sits down with nonprofit HR expert Allison Wyatt, from Edgility Talent Partners, to explore why an organization's staff should be viewed not as an expense, but as a strategic asset. Wyatt explains how intentional hiring, clear role design, and ongoing staff development directly impact mission effectiveness, financial sustainability, and organizational culture. The conversation covers common nonprofit staffing mistakes, the hidden costs of turnover, and how leaders can better align people strategy with long-term goals—even with limited budgets. Together, they emphasize that nonprofits that invest thoughtfully in their people build stronger, more resilient organizations capable of greater impact.
In this episode of the Nonprofit MBA Podcast, Stephen Halasnik talks with Michael Toguchi, Chief Strategy Officer at eResources, about how nonprofits can streamline grantmaking and donor programs to save time and reduce staff burnout in a tighter funding environment. They explore how recent economic and political shifts have made grants harder to secure, pushing organizations to apply for more funding with limited resources. Michael explains how combining strong internal processes with nonprofit-specific software can create efficient, repeatable workflows for grants and donor management, improve results, and protect organizations from staff turnover, ultimately freeing teams to focus more on their mission and impact.
In today's rapidly changing nonprofit landscape, nonprofit arts organizations are facing significant challenges. Traditional models of fundraising, ticket sales, and audience engagement no longer meet funder expectations. The conversation between Stephen Halasnik and Alan Harrison highlights a core shift taking place: arts organizations and community impact must now be directly connected. Organizations that can measure and demonstrate their impact are the ones best positioned to survive and thrive. Harrison's career spans more than 300 theater productions on and off Broadway. He is the author of the Scene Change series, which argues that arts nonprofits must rethink their missions, focus on outcomes, and demonstrate tangible benefits to their communities in order to survive.
Nonprofits have traditionally operated with a mindset of caution, focusing primarily on mission-driven work while avoiding financial risk. While this approach promotes stability, it often limits growth and long-term impact. On a recent episode of the Nonprofit MBA Podcast, host Stephen Halasnik, co-founder of Financing Solutions, discussed this topic with Barb Clapp, CEO of Dwyer Workforce Development. Together, they explored how nonprofits can grow faster by taking strategic risks similar to for-profit businesses.
For many nonprofit leaders, communication feels like an afterthought, something to address once the real work is done. Yet, in today's media-saturated world, a clear, emotional, and strategic message is not just a "nice to have." It is the heartbeat of organizational growth. As Jason Clark, President and CEO of VIA Studio, told Stephen Halasnik in their conversation for The Nonprofit MBA Podcast, "It is really hard to read the label from inside the jar." That metaphor captures a common problem: many nonprofits are too close to their own mission to communicate it effectively to others. This shift highlights why a strong nonprofit marketing strategy is essential today. Clark's Louisville-based digital agency, VIA Studio, has spent over two decades helping nonprofits and mission-driven organizations modernize their branding, websites, and messaging strategies. His insights shed light on a challenge faced by countless small and mid-sized nonprofits: how to evolve from outdated, fact-heavy messaging to emotionally resonant storytelling that inspires real engagement and real donations.
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