Nonprofit Vision With Gregory Nielsen

Grants provide a vital stream of revenue for many nonprofits that allows them to develop and implement critical programs and services. Holly Rustick, best selling author, speaker, and consultant, joins the podcast to share strategies for creating effective systems for grant writers so nonprofits can grow capacity, increase funding, and advance mission.

Amid the stresses and strains of leading or governing a nonprofit organization, it is common for conflicts to emerge. The key is understanding how to productively embrace and engage opposing views. Carol Bowser joins the podcast to discuss navigating conflict productively and positively in nonprofits and the importance of core values.

Christal Cherry joins the podcast as we celebrate Women's History Month and honor the countless contributions women have made and continue to make on the nonprofit community. In a wide ranging conversation, Christal and Greg discuss how nonprofits can welcome, honor, and elevate the voices of women throughout the organization.

Responsible fiscal management and financial oversight is critical to maintaining the public trust for nonprofits.  Melissa Galasso joins the podcast to discuss important considerations for Board members in meeting their fiduciary duties with respect to organization finances.  Melissa discusses the pivotal role of the Treasurer and shares practical insights into how Board members can embody excellence in fiscal governance.  

The four-day work week has been getting a lot of attention these days. But is it all hype?  Sean Kosofsky of Mind The Gap Consulting, LLC researched the four-day work week for 9 months before implementing a pilot at his national climate change nonprofit in 2022.  Sean joins the podcast to discuss lessons learned and important tips for nonprofits interested in exploring the four-day work week.  You can also check out Sean's guest blog post HERE.  

Kristina McKean has felt a deeply rooted kinship with animals for as long as she can remember. When she traveled through Thailand and witnessed baby elephants on the streets of Bangkok being exploited for money, she was devastated.  She has successfully drafted petitions, protested circuses, and created social media campaigns to help amplify and spread awareness of these issues.  Kristina joins the podcast to discuss tips for building public support and awareness for your nonprofit.  

Hiring, developing, and retaining talent is vital to the success of nonprofits.  Nevertheless, this persistent challenge can sometimes feel like an endless ride on the merry-go-round.  Teri Beckman joins the podcast for a thoughtful discussion of the strategies, structures, and culture necessary to hire, develop, and retain your amazing staff.   

One of the most challenging transitions for organizations occurs in the period after a new strategic plan has been approved when it is time to move into implementation.  Head of School Alison Tyler and Board Chair Mary Stone join the podcast to discuss how organization and Board leaders can work together to ensure that the important work of planning is translated into reality through open communication, simple monitoring tools, and a spirit of partnership.  Learn more about Walden School and the value of thoughtful planning and partnership in implementation.  

As the calendar turns to 2023, nonprofit leaders embrace the opportunities and confront the challenges of a dynamic, changing landscape.  Ted Bilich, author of Managing Your Nonprofit For Resilience, joins the podcast to share insights for leaders as the enhance resilience within their organizations.  We discuss an innovative approach to creating a risk inventory, business continuity, and the importance of scenario or action planning.  Lots of actionable strategies in this lively discussion!  **Bonus Resource fro Risk Alternatives: Download a FREE template for a Business Continuity Plan!**

Developing and driving strategic growth for your nonprofit requires a delicate balance of vision, programmatic goals, and the resources to attain them.  Joshua Borenstein joins the podcast to discuss the importance of integrating funding strategy with your vision and programmatic goals.  

While gratitude is best expressed year-round, this time of year serves as a gentle reminder to thank those who have been meaningful in our lives.  In this special podcast episode, Greg shares 4 tangible ways in which Board members and others can demonstrate their gratitude for the tremendous talent and value nonprofit leaders bring to the mission.  We invite you to share your favorite ways to express or receive gratitude!  

Nonprofits have always been entrepreneurial, identifying and implementing creative ways to address systemic challenges.  Increasingly, nonprofits are exploring social enterprises as a means to advance their mission while enhancing their sustainability.   Marc Lane joins the podcast to discuss key considerations and effective strategies for nonprofits in this space, including how not to jeopardize your tax exemption, when to consider forming a separate legal entity, and how might a Low-profit Limited Liability Company (L3C) help the nonprofit secure funding.  

One of the most costly expenses your nonprofit bears doesn't live on the balance sheet.  Instead it is the high cost of IDK -- I don't know you.  Jane Pfeiffer joins the podcast to discuss actionable ways in which you can better understand and communicate your organization's story to the community.  

Does your nonprofit build trust with the community and embody your core values through its financial practices?  Alex Romero is a virtual CFO, experienced nonprofit Board member, and highly respected accountant.  Alex joins the podcast to discuss sustainable impact for nonprofits through sound financial controls and strategies to promote transparency.  

Is self-care a part of your job description as a nonprofit leader?  It should be!  However you choose to care for yourself, it is important to prioritize this time both for your benefit and that of your team.  Joe Duffy joins the podcast to discuss the importance of self-care, tips for integrating it into the culture of your organization, and strategies for spotting signs of burnout or struggle in your teammates.