Nonprofit Vision With Gregory Nielsen

In this episode, Greg sits down with Mark Gerson and Rabbi Eric Gerson, co-founders of African Mission Healthcare (AMH), to explore the urgent global health challenges facing underserved communities. Together, they discuss the critical role of private philanthropy in expanding access to quality healthcare, the unique mission of AMH, and the lessons learned from working at the intersection of faith, medicine, and global development.

Greg is joined by Catherine Wilson, CEO of United Way of Greater Newark, for a powerful conversation about the role of financial literacy in advancing equity and economic opportunity. Catherine shares the impact of the Newark Asset Building Coalition, a citywide effort to promote financial empowerment through free tax preparation, education, and access to critical resources. Tune in to learn how cross-sector collaboration is helping Newark residents build stronger financial futures—one step at a time.

How do you build community when leading a fully virtual organization? Katerina Manoff is the founder & CEO of ENGin, a global nonprofit that has paired over 50,000 English learners and volunteers for online conversation practice and cultural exchange. Katerina and Greg discuss building community and cohesiveness when leading virtual teams.

Bethany Snyder joins Greg to dive into successful advocacy strategies for nonprofits. Join us as we explore proven tactics, tools, and real-world examples that empower organizations to effectively champion their causes, build stronger connections with stakeholders, and drive meaningful change. Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable insights to elevate your nonprofit’s impact.

The intersection of cryptocurrency and nonprofits is creating new opportunities for innovative fundraising, enabling organizations to tap into digital assets while promoting transparency and global reach. Matthew Nash, Executive Director of The Blackbaud Giving Fund, joins Greg to explore how cryptocurrency is transforming charitable giving. We discuss the opportunities and challenges that nonprofits face when integrating crypto donations, risks to be aware of, as well as how this innovation is reshaping the future of philanthropy.

Nonprofits are currently navigating challenges from federal funding freezes to uncertain outcomes for those served. Stephanie Beasley from The Chronicle of Philanthropy joins Greg to discuss the impact of recent Executive Orders on nonprofits as well as the response or lack thereof from philanthropy.

Tim Coetzee, CEO of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, brings a unique view on the intersection of science, policy and community care in tackling this widespread and complex disease. Tim joins Greg to discuss the vital role of partnerships in creating meaningful resources and services for the MS community, and how the Society is building these connections.

Dr. Karen Boyd is an economist and director of research for the San Diego Regional Policy and Innovation Center (PIC).  Dr. Boyd joins Greg for a discussion about the intersection of AI and philanthropy, fundraising, and nonprofits.

As an internationally recognized philanthropy expert, Lisa Dietlin knows a thing or two about making the world a better place. But she also knows that real transformational change starts from within - in organizations and individuals. Lisa joins Greg to discuss opportunities and challenges for the nonprofit sector.

Food is a basic human right, yet the latest data shows 1 in 6 households and 1 in 5 households with children are currently facing food insecurity in Massachusetts. Erin McAleer has seen how the collective effort of individuals, businesses and community partners helps to create long-term, systemic change. Erin joins Greg to discuss how nonprofit organizations can mobilize individuals with lived experience and partners to scale impact.

Leaders at all levels struggle with self doubt. Jenny Mitchell joins the podcast to discuss 3 tips for reframing your relationship with self-doubt in the pursuit of success.

Today's landscape includes nonprofits acting like for profits and for profits acting like nonprofits, all working to advance important missions. Scott Curran is a social impact and legal advisor to the biggest global social impact organizations and initiatives in the world including the Clinton Foundation, UN Foundation, Starbucks Foundation, and many more. Scott joins Greg to discuss this ever evolving landscape.

Jane Pfeiffer joins the podcast to share the results of a recent study of donor perceptions -- why people give, why people don't give, and how you can better communicate with supporters.

Whether you are a new nonprofit CEO or simply new to your organization, leaders face many questions and challenges when they join an organization. Brian Quail, author of The Ultimate Guide for New Nonprofit CEOs, joins the podcast to share how his 5 frameworks can set leaders up for success.

One of the most pivotal relationships in any nonprofit is between the CEO and Board Chair. TD Smyers joins the podcast for a lively and interactive conversation about the importance of this relationship, ways to foster a stronger partnership, and how to pivot when things go awry.

How do the leaders and team members of your nonprofit view the organization? Is it from a mindset of abundance or deficit? Peter Heller joins the podcast for an engaging conversation about nonprofit self esteem and the many ways in which it can impact our accomplishments and challenges.

Carmen Randolph is the Founding President and CEO of Women's Foundation of the South (WFS). WFS raises money and invests it in nonprofits and businesses across 13 states as the only permanent foundation dedicated to centering and investing in the collective health, wealth, and power of Black, Indigenous, Latinx, and Asian womxn and girls across the entire American South. Don't miss this fascinating conversation!

Nonprofit impact comes in many forms, from quantifiable data to anecdotal stories. Both are critical for nonprofits to harness and articulate. Janeal Ford joins the podcast to discuss how you can start or refine impact measurement in your nonprofit and the vital linkage between impact measurement and fundraising.

Amy McIsaac of Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement (PACE) joins the podcast to kick off 2024 with a fascinating conversation on philanthropic efforts to strengthen democracy, including PACE’s Civic Language Perceptions Project.

Fundraising for your nonprofit mission is part art and part science, and balancing the two can often be challenging. Kasey Maier joins the podcast to share practical insights and stories from her career that will leave you better prepared to elevate fundraising for your nonprofit.

Mohan Sivaloganathan has seen the challenge of opening doors for the next generation of leaders of color firsthand over the course of 20 years, most recently leading a national movement of young leaders as the CEO of Our Turn, which mobilizes, amplifies, and elevates the voices of students in the fight for education equity. He joins the podcast to discuss how to create an organizational culture that embraces the stories, identities, and unique gifts of young leaders of color.

Understanding your strengths as a leader as well as those of your team can be a powerful tool for enhancing performance. Beth Napleton joins the podcast to discuss the benefits of strengths-based assessment for leaders and teams.

How equipped is your nonprofit to evaluate its programs and services? Sal Alaimo is an Associate Professor at Grand Valley State University, where he has taught graduate and undergraduate courses in philanthropy and nonprofit administration. He recently returned from the Czech Republic, where he conducted research exploring the capacity of Czech nonprofit social services organizations to have their services evaluated. Greg and Sal discuss the fascinating findings of this research and its parallels for U.S. nonprofits.

Nisha Anand is the CEO of Dream.Org, a nonprofit organization that brings people together across racial, social and partisan lines to solve our toughest problems. Nisha and Greg discuss the radical act of choosing common ground, sharing approaches for nonprofit leaders to find areas of agreement to advance meaningful solutions.

Darian Rodriguez Heyman is the former Executive Director of the Craigslist Foundation and an accomplished social impact consultant, philanthropic advisor, and best-selling author. Greg and Darian discuss the importance of engaging nonprofit boards in fundraising with actionable steps for Boards to set clear expectations, receive and provide support, and build a culture of accountability.

Fundraising and development professionals bring vital talent and resources for nonprofit organizations. Matt Stokes joins the podcast to share his reflections on the career journey of a development professional. Matt shares his recollections of entering the nonprofit sector and fundraising, what it might be like now for professionals transitioning into fundraising, as well as tips and advice for successful career growth in fundraising.

Telling your story tho those who believe in your mission is critical for nonprofits. While we all get flooded with emails, what are some best practices for getting your emails noticed?Jenni Getzy of Nonprofit Jenni joins the podcast to share best practices for email marketing excellence. Lots of fantastic tips and insights in this episode!

Leaders engage in a dynamic interplay between visionary guidance and empowering others to unleash their full potential. Jay Suggs joins the podcast for a lively and wide ranging conversation about leadership, from the importance of presence and being present to asking the right questions of your team, and managing the doubts that so often creep in. This is an episode you will want to listen to and share with your team!

Lisa Ireland is President and CEO of the Longevity Science Foundation, an international nonprofit funding research to extend the healthy human lifespan. Lisa joins the podcast to share thoughts on leading an international nonprofit, the importance of solid infrastructure in nonprofit leadership, and the critical collaborations that are a hallmark of the nonprofit sector.

Nostos Homes is a youth-led UK-based charity that provides first-of-its-kind sustainable homes for forcibly displaced families around the world. Nostos Homes and its leadership have received extensive international recognition and support including from the World Bank, IFC, Goldman Sachs, HRH Prince William, Royal Commonwealth Society, and The Diana Award. Nostos Homes Chief of Staff Devika Narayanan joins the podcast to discuss how a youth-led volunteer only nonprofit can be sustainable and successfully engage with significantly more established international organizations.

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.  

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.  

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.    

In India, patients must pay upfront for medical treatment but not everyone can afford to do so.  The Soondra Foundation believes that everyone deserves to see a doctor and therefore provides direct cash grants to people in India during medical emergencies, ensuring they remain healthy and do not sink deeper into poverty.  Soondra Foundation CEO Dr. Gayatri Mathur shares a deeper insight into the vital role grassroots nonprofits can play in delivering impact while providing a thoughtful perspective on healthcare inequity in India.  

A strategic plan provides a critical roadmap for your organization to set goals and strategies to advance your mission.  Equally important is the ability to take these high-level goals and strategies and operationalize them, developing concrete action plans for Board and staff members.  Claire Crum of Calm Ops joins the podcast to discuss strategic mapping -- a process to help nonprofits operationalize their strategic plans with intentionality.  

Addressing complex issues begins with a recognition that these issues do not occur in isolation, but rather are often linked to other factors.  One innovative nonprofit -- BOMA -- recognized the linkage between gender, extreme poverty, and climate change and sought to reverse the tragic cycle.  BOMA’s mission is to provide the people & governments of Africa’s drylands with economic inclusion programs that increase resilience to multiple crises.  BOMA CEO John Stephens joins the podcast to discuss their goal and approach to end extreme poverty in Africa's drylands.    

Have you ever felt as though the balance between your work life and home life is out of balance?  We all have!  Developing a healthy blend between work and home is both an individual challenge as well as an opportunity for leaders to establish an organizational culture that values an appropriate balance.  Gilda VanderHeyden joins Greg to share some approaches for leaders to consider as they reflect on their own work-life blend and strive to create healthier organizational cultures across the sector.