283: How Do You Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game? (Hardy Smith)

SUMMARY

This episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader.

Are you frustrated with your board's lack of engagement or feeling like they aren’t meeting expectations? Could the real issue be deeper than just pointing fingers? In episode 283 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, board expert Hardy Smith explores the critical importance of building intentional relationships between nonprofit executives and their board members. Drawing from his brand new course Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game, he explains that board dysfunction is a symptom of deeper issues stemming from unclear expectations, poor communication, and lack of proper orientation.

ABOUT HARDY

Hardy Smith is author of Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game. As a consultant and speaker, he works with organizations who want to benefit from a fully engaged board. Through board retreats, workshops, keynotes, and planning sessions Hardy provides solutions to board engagement challenges. Hardy’s results-oriented approach was developed during a longtime career in the high-performance world of NASCAR racing. He has had wide-ranging personal and professional involvement with nonprofits, associations, chambers of commerce, and community groups nationwide. He is a member of the National Speakers Association, ASAE, Association of Fundraising Professionals, BoardSource, Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, and Florida Society of Association Executives. He is a faculty member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Institute for Organization Management.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire
• Check out Hardy's online course: Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game
• Creativity, Inc by Ed Catmull
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible

282: How Can Strategic Planning Transform Your Nonprofit? (Nikki Stewart)

SUMMARY

This episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader.

How do you transform a strategic plan from a daunting task into a powerful tool for leading your nonprofit? In episode 282 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we explore the transformative power of strategic planning with Nikki Stewart, Executive Director of Old North Illuminated. Nikki shares how the pandemic reshaped her organization’s approach to planning, from confronting drastic revenue losses to rebuilding with a focus on a more inclusive narrative around history. She emphasizes the importance of crafting a roadmap that balances innovation with operational needs, and how to engage both funders and staff.

ABOUT NIKKI

Nikki Stewart is a creative and collaborative leader with over 15 years of nonprofit management experience. She serves as the Executive Director of Old North Illuminated, which operates Old North Church & Historic Site, a role that blends her strategic leadership and fundraising expertise with her passion for connecting audiences to local history. Nikki previously served as the VP of Development at United South End Settlements (USES), where she led the organization’s fundraising and communications efforts through an ambitious growth phase that included the implementation of a five-year strategic plan and launch of a capital campaign. AFP Massachusetts named Nikki the 2019 Outstanding Fundraising Rising Star. She launched the Change Maker Dinner series, which was awarded the Get Konnected GK10 award in 2018, naming it one of the top 10 ideas advancing racial equity in the City of Boston. Nikki received a Juris Doctor and bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University. She is a graduate of the Course in Exponential Fundraising at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, as well as the Institute for Nonprofit Practice.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire
• Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019 by Ibram X. Kendi
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership

281: Ask a Funder: Crucial Insights for Nonprofit Success (Cathryn Dhanatya)

SUMMARY

Are you struggling to secure the funding your nonprofit needs, unsure if your proposals are hitting the mark or if your leadership approach is holding you back? In episode 281 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Cathryn Dhanatya shares invaluable advice for nonprofit leaders navigating the complexities of fundraising and leadership. With experience on both sides of the funding process, Cathryn highlights the common mistakes organizations make when submitting proposals. She emphasizes the critical role of relationship-building, clear communication, and developing a strong team to secure large-scale donations. Cathryn also dives into strategies for demonstrating a "return on impact" to funders, showcasing how nonprofits can measure success and make a compelling case for support. For those aiming to lead with confidence, she also discusses the significance of inclusive leadership and servant leadership, offering practical insights for building an effective organizational culture.

ABOUT CATHRYN

Cathryn is Co-founder and President/CEO of Growing Good Inc., a professional services firm that partners with non-profit organizations and companies who aim to do good in the world. Cathryn has previously held key C-suite executive positions and board director and advisory positions for organizations in the areas of research, higher education, and across the non-profit sector tackling complex social issues from healthcare, education, diversity and gender equity, microfinance, green technology, and food insecurity. She has lived and worked on five continents; earned her Ph.D. in Social Science and Comparative Education from UCLA; and has led and conducted research on media and technology as it relates to health issues around the globe. She has been a keynote speaker at several international and domestic conferences, events, trainings, and featured in numerous media outlets.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence by Lisa Sun
• Learn more about Cathryn and the work done at Growing Good
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

280: 3 Characteristics of a Great Nonprofit Leader (Jeffrey Abramowitz)

SUMMARY

Are you struggling to balance mission-driven leadership with the practical demands of scaling your nonprofit AND keeping your team motivated and engaged? In episode 280 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Jeffrey Abramowitz shares his powerful journey from trial lawyer and incarceration to nonprofit leadership, and explores the three essential characteristics that define great leadership in the sector: listening, learning, and engaging. Drawing from his personal experiences, including time spent in federal prison, Jeff illustrates how education and workforce development can create life-changing opportunities for marginalized individuals.

ABOUT JEFFREY

Jeffrey Abramowitz, J.D is the CEO of the Petey Greene Program. He was previously the ED of Justice Partnerships and served as the ED Reentry Services for JEVS Human Services and the Program Director of Looking Forward Philadelphia Reentry Program. Prior to his tenure at JEVS, Jeff was the Director of Workforce Development for the Community Learning Center and successfully completed a fellowship with Justleadership USA. Jeff proudly sits on the Executive Board of the Coalition on Adult Basic Education, COABE, where he serves as Secretary, and chairs the State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship Program. Jeff was appointed to the Pennsylvania Reentry Council and serves as Chairman of the Employment Committee and Co-chairs the Reentry Committee for the PA Workforce Development Board. Jeff is the current Chair of the Philadelphia Reentry Coalition and was recently appointed to the Montgomery County Pennsylvania Public Defender’s Association Advisory Board. Jeff is a subject matter expert for the US Department of Education, is the Moderator for the US Department of Education LINCS (Literacy Information and Communication System, Resource Collection) Community of Practice on Correctional and Reentry Education and has worked on the Integrated Education and Training (IET) in Corrections Project.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• The Second Mountain: How People Move from the Prison of Self to the Joy of Commitment by David Brooks
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

279: Digital Transformation: A New Era for Nonprofit Leaders (Beth Kanter)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders embrace the opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI) while navigating the ethical challenges it presents, all without losing sight of the human-centered mission at the heart of their work? In episode 279 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Beth Kanter, a seasoned expert in nonprofit technology, delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. She offers a nuanced perspective on adopting AI in a way that enhances human-centered work, improves productivity, and upholds organizational values. Beth also shares her journey to becoming a leading voice in nonprofit tech, emphasizing the importance of empathetic leadership, ethical AI use, and maintaining workplace well-being. Whether you're leading a small nonprofit or a large organization, this conversation will provide valuable strategies for integrating technology without compromising the human touch that defines effective nonprofit work.

ABOUT BETH

Beth Kanter is an internationally recognized thought leader and trainer in digital transformation and well-being in the nonprofit workplace. She is the co-author of the award-winning Happy Healthy Nonprofit: Impact without Burnout and co-author with Allison Fine of The Smart Nonprofit. Named one of the most influential women in technology by Fast Company and recipient of the NTEN Lifetime Achievement Award, she has over three decades of experience in designing and delivering training programs for nonprofits and foundations. As a sought-after keynote speaker and workshop leader, she has presented at nonprofit conferences around the world to thousands of nonprofits. Learn more about Beth at www.bethkanter.org.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal Newport
• Learn more about Beth here at Beth Kanter.org
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Re

278: 3 Barriers to Nonprofit Strategic Planning (Chris Wong)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders shift from simply surviving to strategically thriving in an environment filled with resource constraints and external pressures? In episode 278 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Chris Wong delves into the intricacies of strategic planning for nonprofits, addressing common challenges and offering actionable solutions. Drawing from his extensive experience, Chris identifies the three biggest barriers nonprofit leaders face: resource constraints, lack of engagement and buy-in, and external pressures. He emphasizes the importance of shifting from a scarcity mindset to a strategic, long-term approach and highlights the need for inclusive planning processes that foster team alignment and commitment. Chris also shares insights on the critical role of leadership in championing strategic initiatives and offers practical tips for assessing and improving organizational culture.

ABOUT CHRIS

Chris is a certified executive coach, licensed therapist, and seasoned leadership development professional with a proven track record in the nonprofit sector. He specializes in guiding leaders through strategic prioritization, confident navigation of difficult conversations, and fostering high-performing cultures. As a facilitator and public speaker, Chris has trained hundreds of leaders and spearheaded successful organizational projects. His extensive experience spans nonprofit, health insurance, and government systems. Currently, he partners with human service nonprofit executives to execute strategic plans, addressing challenges such as conflict resolution, culture enhancement, productivity improvement, and fostering inclusive work environments. Chris' expertise encompasses leadership development, strategic planning, change management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

277: Unlocking Pay Equity as a Nonprofit Leader (Sally Loftis)

SUMMARY

Are you grappling with compensation issues in your nonprofit organization? In episode 272 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Sally Loftis returns to shed light on pay equity and its importance in the nonprofit sector. Sally, the author of The Pay Equity Guide for Nonprofit Organizations, delves into what pay equity means and why it matters for leaders striving for fairness and transparency. She emphasizes the need for updated pay models, especially considering current labor shortages and the shift towards hybrid work environments. Sally also shares practical advice on starting pay equity initiatives, engaging in cost-of-living studies, and building compensation philosophies. Listen in to gain insights on how to make your organization more attractive to talent and retain your valuable employees through equitable pay practices.

ABOUT SALLY

Sally Loftis, a consultant specializing in human resources, organization development, and social justice, has made significant contributions in the realm of pay equity. She completed her Master of Science in Organization Development at Pepperdine University, where she focused her thesis on Pay Equity in Nonprofits. Sally’s mission is to co-create workplaces where humans feel valued through living wages and healthy human connections. Her work with Loftis Partners emphasizes racial and pay equity, appreciative inquiry, and building on human strengths within organizations. Sally’s commitment to ensuring people feel seen, heard, and represented is evident in her multifaceted career. She has worked with over 50 organizations across 15 states and 3 continents, including Fortune 50 companies, small boutique businesses, and nonprofits of varying sizes. Her approach centers on creating lasting impact, leaving a collective of individuals capable of advancing this work independently.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson
• Hear more from Sally in episode 64: How Can We Address Compensation Gaps in the Nonprofit Sector?
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more here
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

276: Transform Your Leadership in the Next 90 Days (Andrew Olsen)

SUMMARY

Are you struggling with leadership challenges in your nonprofit organization? In episode 276 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we dive into another insightful conversation with Andrew Olsen, a seasoned expert in nonprofit leadership and fundraising. Andrew introduces his new email-based course, the 90-Day Leader's Journey, designed to address critical areas of character, culture building, and leadership competence. Drawing from his extensive experience and research, Andrew reveals the common misconception that nonprofits have a fundraising problem, whereas the core issue often lies in leadership. He shares practical strategies for developing leadership skills, fostering a healthy organizational culture, and empowering team members. Discover how focusing on effective leadership can drive significant improvements to your organization’s impact and fundraising success.

ABOUT ANDREW

After spending 25+ years leading global teams to deliver professional services that drive value for companies and consumers around the world, I learned an important lesson. Everything in business (and life) rises and falls on leadership. That’s why I’m passionate about helping leaders increase their impact. It’s why I created the 90-Day Leader’s Journey email course, and why I provide strategic advisory and coaching services to entrepreneurs and business leaders. If you want to accelerate the impact, you’re making as a leader, I invite you to take my 90-Day Leader’s Journey email course or get in touch today about how I can help you through 1:1 coaching or advisory services.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• The Essential Fundraiser’s Handbook: A Guide to Maximizing Donations, Retaining Donors, and Saving the Giving Sector for Good by Lisa Greer
• Increase your Leadership Impact in 90 Days with Andrew Olsen here
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program? Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire