Start & Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Erin Wells, Administrative Director for Restoration House STL, to talk about what it looks like to keep your nonprofit organized, efficient, and mission-focused behind the scenes. Erin shares how she stepped into nonprofit administration, the systems that keep Restoration House running smoothly, and how her role supports both the leadership team and the young adults they serve. Together, they explore the value of structure, communication, and faith when juggling the many moving pieces of a growing organization. Whether you’re a founder trying to build your team or an admin looking to refine your processes, this conversation will leave you encouraged and equipped. We'll discuss: The balance between structure and flexibility in operations How organization supports mission and team culture Navigating challenges and maintaining clear communication The spiritual and practical sides of nonprofit leadership To learn more about Restoration House STL, visit their website or connect with them on Facebook or Instagram. To contact Erin, email erin@restorationhousestl.org To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni are joined by Lilly Blake, Director of Programming for Restoration House STL. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of building strong programming that truly meets the needs of the community. Lilly shares her firsthand experience designing and managing programs for young adults and how she balances structure, flexibility, and compassion in her work. The conversation highlights the importance of being intentional, adaptable, and rooted in your mission when it comes to programming. Whether you’re developing your first program or refining existing ones, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for nonprofit leaders at every stage. We'll discuss: Designing impactful programming with intentionality Balancing structure and flexibility in nonprofit programs Meeting real needs while staying true to your mission The role of leadership and collaboration in program success To learn more about Restoration House STL, visit their website or connect with them on Facebook or Instagram. To contact Lilly, email lilly@restorationhousestl.org To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this episode, nonprofit coach and Executive Director Tim Needham sits down with Dr. David Docusen, author of Neighborhoods & Nations, founder of The Neighborliness Center, and President of International Ministry Network. David’s passion is helping leaders bridge divides, foster community, and create practical solutions that meet both spiritual and physical needs. Together, Tim and David dive into what it looks like to engage neighborhoods with compassion, generosity, and a long-term vision for transformation. David shares lessons from his own journey of leading churches and nonprofits, as well as the importance of empowering local leaders and building partnerships that last. Whether you’re in the early stages of launching your nonprofit or looking to deepen your community impact, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and love deeper. They discuss:  Building authentic community partnerships The power of generosity and compassion in community work The importance of equity and access in serving communities Staying rooted in your mission during challenges and change Empowering local leaders and fostering collaboration To find the Holistic Community Development Framework mentioned in this episode, go to https://neighborliness.com/resources/. To learn more about International Ministry Network, visit their website. To learn more about The Neighborliness Center, visit their website. For more information about David, visit his website or connect with him on Facebook or Instagram. You can also purchase his books on Amazon. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this episode, Tim sits down with marketing strategist and former missionary Duane Zingale. Duane shares how his journey from the mission field to marketing taught him the importance of storytelling, vision, and building true community around a cause. Here's what we'll cover: Duane’s journey from missionary work to marketing expert Why every nonprofit needs a guiding “movement manifest” How stories create connection, trust, and advocacy The balance between vision and organizational structure Whether you’re just starting your nonprofit or leading an established organization, this conversation will challenge you to think beyond tactics and lean into strategy, vision, and authentic human connection. For more information on Duane Zingale, and to download his free resource, The LISTEN Framework visit his website. Listen to the Marketing Your Movement Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

Welcome to Start & Grow: Rewind, where we're bringing back some of our most popular and impactful episodes from the archives. Some conversations change how we think about building meaningful organizations. In this Rewind episode, host Tim Needham sits down with Bob Stergos, co-founder and Executive Director of A Seat at the Table, for one of those transformative discussions. This conversation goes beyond Bob's inspiring work. It dives deep into one of the most essential skills for nonprofit leaders: how to cast a vision that invites others to see themselves as part of your story. Whether you're in the early stages of building your nonprofit or looking to deepen community engagement around your existing organization, Bob's insights on storytelling, vision-casting, and authentic relationship-building will provide the guidance you need. For more information about A Seat at the Table, visit their website or follow them on Facebook or YouTube. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit: http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. Contact Tim at tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com Contact Mary at mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com

In this episode, nonprofit coach Tim Needham sits down with Fred Domke, the co-founder and Executive Director of Bridge Bread Bakery in St. Louis, Missouri. Fred shares the powerful story behind how a simple act—baking bread—sparked a sustainable, dignity-driven social enterprise that provides employment and purpose to individuals experiencing homelessness. With transparency and heart, Fred opens up about: The moment he realized baking could be a vehicle for change The entrepreneurial challenges of launching a social enterprise What nonprofits can learn from a bakery model Why “being a good neighbor” is at the core of Bridge Bread’s mission Whether you’re just getting started or are looking for fresh ideas to expand your impact, this conversation will leave you inspired to think outside the box—and maybe even bake a loaf of bread. For more information on Bridge Bread Bakery, visit their website, or check them out on Facebook or Instagram. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

We’re bringing back one of our favorite conversations for this special episode of Start & Grow: Rewind. Whether you're brand new or revisiting your roots, this episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit entrepreneur. In this candid conversation, Mary Valloni sits down with fellow coach and Executive Director Tim Needham. Together, they unpack the foundational steps of starting a nonprofit—from dreaming up your mission to putting the essential structures in place. Since first recording this episode, Tim’s organization, Restoration House STL, has served thousands of young people in St. Louis, MO. He also co-founded Nonprofit Academy to help guide other leaders on their journey. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit: http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. Contact Tim at tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com Contact Mary at mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni share their proven strategies to help you make the most of year-end fundraising. With decades of experience raising millions for nonprofits, Mary breaks down what it takes to approach this crucial season with clarity, confidence, and creativity. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your nonprofit’s impact, this episode will equip you to finish the year strong and set your mission up for success. We'll discuss: Setting realistic yet ambitious year-end fundraising goals Crafting donor-centered messaging that inspires action Building a timeline and checklist for a stress-free campaign Tips for creating a culture of gratitude and follow-up. For more information about our upcoming live workshop, check out our workshop page. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In the second part of our interview with Greg Stier, we dive deep into the gritty realities of nonprofit sustainability, research-driven pivots, and masterful fundraising principles. Greg shares vulnerable stories from the early struggling days, research that initially devastated him but ultimately transformed their approach, and specific fundraising encounters that demonstrate both the art and heart of development work. We'll discuss: Strategic pivots and scaling Dare2Share for global impact. Overcoming challenges and staying faithful to the mission. The role of prayer, vision, and hard decisions in leadership. To learn more about Dare2Share Ministries visit their website, or check them out on Facebook or Instagram.  For more information about Greg, visit his website or Facebook page. You can hear more from Greg on the Radical Like Jesus with Greg Stier Podcast, or check out his new book, Radical Like Jesus: 21 Challenges to Live a Revolutionary Life. For more information about our upcoming live workshop, check out our workshop page. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this first part of a compelling two-part interview, coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Greg Stier to explore the origins of Dare2Share Ministries. Greg shares his personal journey from a challenging upbringing to discovering his calling to equip teens to share the gospel. He recounts the transformational impact of his youth pastor’s vision and how it inspired Dare2Share’s mission to mobilize the next generation for Christ. We'll discuss: Greg’s early years and the profound influence of his youth pastor. The birth of Dare2Share and its vision for gospel-centered youth ministry. Insights into the power of small beginnings, bold faith, and strategic sacrifice. To learn more about Dare2Share Ministries visit their website. For more information about Greg, visit his website or check out his podcast. For more information about our upcoming live workshop, check out our workshop page. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this enlightening episode, Tim Needham and Mary Valloni are joined by Josh Roberts of Qashar Ministries to discuss a game-changing approach to donor engagement. Josh shares his insights on donor communication, consistency, and the importance of relationship-building. His strategy has not only increased giving but also deepened connections with donors, turning occasional supporters into lifelong advocates. We'll discuss: The importance of consistent, clear communication with donors. Why small, thoughtful actions can lead to big donor engagement. Balancing faith and strategy in fundraising. Building trust through personalized messaging and meaningful relationships. To learn more about Qashar Ministries visit their website, or reach out via email. For more information about our upcoming live workshop, check out our workshop page. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this powerful episode, Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Katie and Rudy Gleason, founders of the nonprofit Because of Kennedy. Their journey began with a devastating loss, but evolved into a mission that has impacted countless lives in Ethiopia. Katie and Rudy share how their daughter Kennedy's legacy inspired them to launch their nonprofit, overcoming unimaginable grief to bring hope and empowerment to vulnerable children and families. Their story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of saying "yes" to the next step. We'll discuss: Transforming grief into purpose: The story behind Because of Kennedy. Launching a nonprofit in the face of challenges. Building impactful programs to empower families and children in Ethiopia. The importance of faith and small steps in nonprofit leadership. To learn more about Because of Kennedy, visit their website, and check them out on Facebook or Instagram. You can reach out to Katie at katie@becauseofkennedy.org To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. For more information on our upcoming live workshop and mastermind weekend, visit our website. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this insightful episode, coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Matt Peeples, founder of The Kairos Network, to discuss balancing faith and practicality in nonprofit leadership. Matt shares how his journey of planting churches and launching The Kairos Network taught him the importance of discerning between faith-driven risks and unwise decisions. Through powerful stories and practical advice, Matt highlights the value of humility, learning from failure, and building a team to achieve sustainable growth. We'll discuss: How to discern between a step of faith and a leap of recklessness. Embracing learning and collaboration to grow as a leader. Why every nonprofit leader needs a strong network and support system. How starting small can lead to big impact with time and patience. To learn more about The Kairos Network, visit their website, check out their YouTube channel, or reach out to Matt via email. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this insightful episode, Tim Needham and Mary Valloni explore the importance of having a business plan for your nonprofit. They clarify misconceptions about business plans, differentiate them from strategic plans, and share practical advice for crafting a plan that sets your nonprofit up for success. We'll discuss: What is a Nonprofit Business Plan? Business Plan vs. Strategic Plan The Power of Clarity Practical Steps for Drafting Your Plan To register for our upcoming free webinar on May 8th, 2025 at 1:00 PM CT, visit our registration page. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

In this heartfelt episode, coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Emily Needham to discuss a challenge many nonprofit leaders face: what to do when your spouse doesn’t share your nonprofit calling. Emily shares her journey of supporting Tim’s mission at Restoration House STL, balancing her own passions, and embracing her role outside the nonprofit. Together, they unpack the dynamics of spousal support and offer practical advice for navigating this often-complex aspect of nonprofit leadership. We'll discuss: Finding ways to support each other while pursuing separate purposes Lessons learned from balancing family, work, and mission Being a safe space for your spouse during nonprofit highs and lows Communication strategies to align on shared goals and expectations To register for our upcoming free webinar on May 8th, 2025 at 1:00 PM CT, visit our registration page. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, this episode tackles one of the most emotionally charged questions for nonprofit entrepreneurs: Can you take a salary from your nonprofit? Tim and Mary break down the misconceptions, fears, and practical realities of compensating yourself while leading a mission-driven organization. We'll discuss: The emotional challenges of taking a salary in a nonprofit Why nonprofit leaders should feel comfortable being compensated Strategies for determining appropriate compensation Addressing guilt and misconceptions about nonprofit salaries The importance of financial sustainability for nonprofit leaders Mark your calendars for our upcoming free webinar on May 8th, 2025 at 1:00 PM CT. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communities, and the world. In this inspiring episode, Jerry Harris, an experienced nonprofit leader and advocate for community collaboration, shares his insights on fostering partnerships that drive meaningful change. Jerry reflects on his journey of over 40 years in ministry and nonprofit leadership, including the challenges of nonprofit leadership and the strategies he’s used to build bridges between organizations, donors, and communities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your nonprofit’s impact, Jerry’s wisdom will inspire and equip you to lead with purpose and build strong, lasting connections. We'll discuss: Building Trust Through Action Vision and Calling Leadership Lessons Practical Advice for Starting Nonprofits Maintaining Momentum For more information about Reach Network, visit their website. For more information about Bridge House Ministries, visit their website. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communities, and the world. In this episode, our coaches discuss one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of nonprofit success: knowing your numbers. Whether it’s your program metrics, financial data, or impact statistics, understanding and confidently communicating your numbers can transform how donors, volunteers, and partners perceive your organization. Tim and Mary share personal stories, practical tips, and expert insights to help nonprofit leaders like you master this essential skill and unlock new levels of growth and trust for your mission. We'll discuss: Why Numbers Matter Essential Numbers to Track Communicating Your Numbers The Impact of Numbers on Decision-Making Steps to Start Tracking Numbers Today To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communities, and the world. In this episode, Mary and Tim break down the three essential asks every nonprofit leader needs to master—Time, Money, and Resources. Drawing from their own experiences and real-world examples, Mary and Tim share practical strategies to help you confidently approach donors, volunteers, and partners to meet your nonprofit's needs. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your impact, this episode will equip you with the tools to make your asks effectively and maximize opportunities for your mission. We'll discuss: Time: Why asking for volunteers’ time is often the hardest—and most valuable—ask. Money: The importance of clarity in financial needs and how to confidently make the financial ask. Resources: Leveraging connections and partnerships to secure the resources your organization needs. Being Prepared: The value of having a clear vision, mission, and specific needs to share when opportunities arise. Practical Tips: How to build relationships, communicate your needs, and be ready for the right moment to make the ask. To download the free checklist and see our other resources, visit our website. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communities, and the world. In this episode, Tim and Mary sit down with Eric Porter to discuss the journey of discovering your calling to start a nonprofit. Eric shares his personal story of transitioning from a youth pastor to founding Backyard Orphans, an organization dedicated to mobilizing churches to care for children in need. Together, they explore what it means to step into a calling, the challenges of starting a nonprofit, and the incredible impact of trusting the process. If you’ve ever felt a pull to start something bigger than yourself or wondered how to turn your vision into impact, this episode is packed with wisdom to guide you. We'll explore: Recognizing Your Calling Overcoming Doubt Building a Support System Communicating the Problem Sustaining the Vision For the TED Talk by Simon Sinek mentioned in the episode, Start With Why, Click here to watch on YouTube. For more information on The Donor's Journey as mentioned in the episode, listen to Episode 30 on our podcast page. To purchase a copy of Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World by Michael Hyatt or Visioneering: God's Blueprint for Developing and Maintaining Personal Vision by Andy Stanley as mentioned in the episode, check out the links to purchase online. For more information on Backyard Orphans, visit their website, or connect with them on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. You can view their most recent Impact Report here. To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit. Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page. For more information about Nonprofit Academy, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/. To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com. To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com.