In this episode, Michelle and Danielle talk about the pros and cons of hiring an executive coach  - why you would - or would not - and the importance of building a strong support network as a NFP CEO.  

It's easy to get caught up in the demands of your role and this can feel isolating. This can lead to burnout, decreased creativity, and reduced effectiveness.  How do you combat this? 

In this episode we talk why a network and why - and when -  an executive coach can help. 

Michelle and Danielle talk through the benefits of a strong network, including:

• accessing expertise and different perspectives
• opportunities to think about collaboration or partnerships
• insights into industry trends and best practices

Having a peer group is so helpful for leaders - you learn about others’ experiences and gain insight. 

 We talk how a peer group can help with:

• a safe space to discuss challenges and successes
• opportunities to learn from others
• support and encouragement when you need it 

Whether you're considering hiring a coach or not, investing time and resources into your personal development is crucial. If you are thinking about an executive coach there are certain things to look for - and some to avoid. 

An executive coach may help:

• Clarify your priorities and alignment with organisational goals 
• Identify areas for your improvement and growth
• Provide a sounding board for innovative ideas and solutions

By embracing networking, breaching isolation, sharing experiences, and utilizing coaching, you'll be better equipped to lead your organization with confidence, creativity, and purpose.

Do yourself a favour, stop doom scrolling on your phone and tune into this week's conversation on the benefits of an executive coach.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Sustaining Your CEO Energy: Thriving, Not Just Surviving

Being a CEO is a high-energy role that demands a lot -  focus, strategic thinking, decision-making, and constant engagement with stakeholders.  Many For Purpose CEOs complain there is no down time.  So how do you do it? 

If you have ever felt like you're just going through the motions, or waiting for your energy to magically recharge so you can tackle another day of leading your organisation - then this episode is for you.  

Sustaining your energy isn't just about endurance; it's about working smarter. Finding ways to boost your productivity, reduce stress, and maintain your focus so you can lead with both impact and longevity.

In this episode we are talking:

Time Management: The first step to energy preservation. 

How do you spend your day? Are you a slave to your calendar, do you control your time? 

Delegation & Resourcing: Build Capacity, Not Dependence

How do you delegate effectively? How to build capacity. How to avoid micromanagement. How often should you check in?

Rest & Renewal: rebuild (and preserve) your energy.

Rest and renewal are just as important as productivity if you are talking sustaining your energy. How do you take care of yourself? 

Meeting Culture: Quality Over Quantity

Meetings are an inevitable part of being a CEO, but not all meetings are created equal. How do you ensure that your meetings are productive and focused?

Flexibility: More than a Buzzword

Not everyone thrives in a traditional 9-to-5 schedule. How to flex your work rhythms and build a team culture that supports flexible work patterns while maintaining responsiveness.

Crisis Management:  How to handle Pressure Without Burnout

When crises hit, time pressure increases. Prioritising, communicating, and delegating are needed to sustain energy in high-pressure situations.

Wellbeing: How to Ensure Long-Term Sustainability

Sustaining energy as a NFP CEO isn't just about getting through the day; it's about growing and improving over time.  What works?  How to determine what helps your decision-making and resilience .

Sustaining energy as a for purpose CEO isn't about pushing harder; it's about leading smarter. 

Take some time for yourself and join Danielle and Michelle on The NFP CEO for more conversations on leadership, sustainability, and what it takes to thrive in today's fast-paced world as a NFP CEO.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In our latest podcast, "The CEO-Board Chair Relationship: It Matters," we dive into the world of the Chair - CEO relationship from the CEO’s viewpoint and explore what makes this partnership tick. 

As the two key leaders of a purpose driven organisation this relationship is fundamental to the success of the organisation. It impacts culture, goals, and potentially the lives of the people at the heart of your mission. Get this relationship wrong and you are going to struggle as a NFP CEO.

In this episode of the NFP CEO we talk building trust, open communication,  leveraging each other's strengths and look at the secrets to a successful CEO-Board Chair dynamic.

As a new NFP CEO you'll learn how to:

• Build a strong foundation for your organisation by fostering a culture of trust and open communication with your Chair
• Leverage your Board Chair’s experience for you and the organisation  
• Collaborate with your Board Chair to build better stakeholder relationships  

A strong CEO-Board Chair partnership can help drive growth, innovation, and impact - which is what we are all here for.   A key part of the governance framework - ensure you get this relationship right. 

So, join us as we talk how to build a successful CEO-Board Chair dynamic. 

Grab your headphones or earpods and listen in to our latest podcast, "The CEO-Board Chair Relationship: It Matters," and discover how you can build a strong partnership that drives success.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

While every CEO's journey is unique, there are certain truths that apply to us all. CEO reporting is one of them.  A good board reporting structure can be the difference between success and stagnation. So this week, Michelle and Danielle are talking effective board reporting.

In this episode, we focus on why clear and concise reporting matters, how it can help build trust with the board, ensure strategic focus, and streamline decision-making.  Good board reporting will make your life easier as a For Purpose CEO.

Michelle and Danielle share their experience on optimising reporting, how to assess inherited processes and how to work with the Chair and give the Board what they need. They give practical tips and insights to help you create a better report that drives impact and supports good decision-making.

If you're struggling to find your footing as a new For Purpose CEO, or if you want to take your board reporting to the next level, this episode is for you. Join Michelle and Danielle as they explore the world of board reporting, and discover how to make it a strategic tool that drives success.

Some key takeaways from this episode include:

• The importance of clear and concise reporting in building trust with your Board
• Strategies for optimising reporting processes
• How to keep the Board engaged through regular updates and check-ins
• What question to ask about each report you plan sending to the board

Whether you are on your commute, or your daily workout, tune in now, and start building an effective board reporting structure.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Ever wondered what happens when the CEOs of purpose-driven organisations sit down together for a chat? With 30 years of experience in the for-purpose space, we understood the urgent need for a space where invaluable information could be shared and recorded.

We tackle the real, gritty questions: How do you build and sustain a thriving organisational culture? How do you manage relationships with your board, your chair and preserve your peace of mind while carrying the weight of responsibility? 

For those who are new to the role or eyeing it on the horizon, the importance of a support network cannot be overstated. This is why we envision our podcast as a cornerstone in your resource kit – providing support, offering ideas and enabling you to implement insights within your organisation.

From our own success stories to those of our guests, we’ll discuss the myriad barriers we face, with every episode an opportunity to learn and grow.

Wherever you are in your CEO career, there’s something here for you. Your journey in the for-purpose world is one we’re passionate about supporting. Let’s learn, connect and lead together.

LINKS

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle take listeners behind the scenes of recruiting and applying for a CEO role in the not-for-profit and for-purpose sectors.

Michelle shares her experience supporting an organisation through a CEO recruitment process without using an external recruiter and what made some candidates stand out (and others miss the mark). Together, she and Danielle explore the do’s and don’ts of applying for CEO roles, from crafting a standout cover letter to preparing for the board interview.

Whether you’re stepping up into your first CEO role, moving to a new organisation, or sitting on a board overseeing recruitment, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you navigate the CEO hiring process strategically and confidently.

• How to approach CEO recruitment when your organisation decides not to use a recruiter.
• Why building a personal connection before you apply can give you an edge.
• How to stand out with a tailored cover letter and what most applicants get wrong.
• Why “spray and pray” job applications hurt your professional brand.
• What boards are really looking for in a CEO - beyond the job description.
• How to research and prepare for your interview like a pro.
• The importance of showing your alignment with the organisation’s purpose.
• Advice on using ChatGPT and AI tools the right way when crafting your application.

Related Episodes: CEO Succession Planning

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Policies might not be the most thrilling part of being a CEO, but they’re absolutely essential to running a safe, compliant, and effective not-for-profit. In this episode, Michelle and Danielle unpack the practical side of policy management; how to create a strong policy framework, keep it up to date, and avoid the panic that comes when you realize something’s missing (or written in Times New Roman from 2016!).

Whether you’re stepping into a new CEO role or trying to get your policy house in order, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to create, review, and repeat with confidence.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why policy management is a must-do, not a nice-to-do, for every NFP CEO
• Where to find reliable policy templates and guidance (ACNC, AICD, Institute of Community Directors)
• How to build and maintain a policy register that actually works
• When and how often to review policies and which ones need more frequent updates
• How to involve your team and board committees in policy development and review
• Practical ways to make policies usable, accessible, and embedded in daily practice

The NFP CEO — helping new and aspiring leaders in the for-purpose sector grow their confidence, sharpen their strategy, and lead with impact

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Many not-for-profit CEOs either have a structured annual performance review… or none at all. In this episode of The NFP CEO, hosts Michelle and Danielle, both experienced NFP leaders share practical, step-by-step advice on how to navigate your CEO performance review from start to finish.

You’ll learn:

• Why CEO performance reviews matter for not-for-profit organisations and good governance
• How to approach your Chair if you’ve never had a formal CEO review process
• Proven ways to set up KPIs using your position description and strategic plan
• Structuring your first CEO review so it’s constructive, fair, and aligned with board expectations
• How to include organisational culture, resilience, and compliance in your performance measures
• The benefits of 360-degree feedback from staff, stakeholders, and partners
• Why ongoing CEO–board feedback is critical for leadership success

Whether you’re a new NFP CEO, an aspiring leader, or a board member wanting to improve CEO evaluations, this episode gives you the tools to turn performance reviews into a valuable driver of strategy, alignment, and professional growth.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, we chat with Rachael Cook, CEO of Inclusee, about how her organisation uses a 100% remote workforce to tackle social isolation across Australia. Rachel shares how Inclusee has built a strong culture of trust, connection and inclusion, without a physical office.

We explore how remote work, when done with intention, can boost productivity, attract diverse talent, and support wellbeing. Rachael also reveals how Inclusee discovered that 70% of their team is neurodiverse and why that's become one of their biggest strengths.

Key Points:

• Building trust and culture in a remote team
• Flexible work as a workforce retention strategy
• The truth about remote workforce productivity
• How to keep remote teams connected and engaged
• Practical tips for leading with purpose from anywhere
• Tips for CEOs: how to create connection and community in virtual environments

• Culture is the new visibility: If you don’t trust your team, it’s not a remote work issue, it’s a culture issue.
• Connection over location: Employees aren’t returning to the office for the building; they’re returning for connection.
• Design with intent: From onboarding to communication channels, every process needs to be reimagined in a remote model.
• Flexibility attracts talent: In sectors like aged care where wages can’t always compete, flexibility and purpose become your strongest recruitment and retention tools.
• Remote work enables diversity: Inclusee discovered that 70% of their workforce identifies as neurodiverse - a strength uncovered by creating a psychologically safe, remote-first workplace.

🔗 Learn more: www.inclusee.org.au

Related Episodes:

Beyond the Office. Rethinking Work and Leadership

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Hybrid working is here to stay but what does it really look like in the for-purpose sector, where some roles must be on-site and others can work anywhere?

In this episode of The NFP CEO podcast, we explore how not-for-profit leaders can design, manage and lead hybrid workplaces that balance flexibility, fairness and mission.

We unpack insights from a BBC news article showing that hybrid and remote teams value different leadership styles:

• In-person teams often prefer extroverted, charismatic leaders.
• Remote teams prefer leaders who are dependable, helpful and focused on planning, enabling and connecting people.

These findings lead to an in-depth discussion on how NFP CEOs can adapt their leadership approach to a hybrid workforce.

• What hybrid work really means in a not-for-profit organisation and why it looks different when you have client-facing roles.
• Why a blanket “3 days in the office” policy doesn’t work.
• How to segment your workforce and define flexibility by role, not an office address.
• Ways to create equity between frontline staff and remote/office-based staff.
• The impact of hybrid workplaces on leadership styles – and why situational leadership is essential.
• How to support staff wellbeing in client-facing roles, including those at risk of vicarious trauma.
• Practical communication strategies for building trust, managing outcomes, and reducing friction in hybrid teams.
• The role of technology and tools in enabling hybrid work without overburdening NFP teams.

• Hybrid work is not about counting days in the office,  it’s about being deliberate.
• Align your hybrid approach with your mission, client outcomes and workforce wellbeing.
• Set clear expectations and focus on outcomes rather than presence.
• Understand that hybrid leadership requires flexibility, self-awareness, and strong communication.

If you’re a not-for-profit CEO, senior manager, or aspiring leader, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to build a sustainable hybrid workplace that supports your people and strengthens your organisation.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this inspiring episode of The NFP CEO, we sit down with Jason Sotiris, CEO and founder of Supertee, a charity that began with a simple question; "why hasn’t anyone made it easier to dress and care for children in hospital?"

What started as a desperate tradie-dad’s response to his daughter’s cancer diagnosis has now become a national charity delivering superhero-inspired medical garments to kids in more than 100 hospitals across Australia.

Jason shares how he turned frustration into innovation, and how the power of imagination, dignity, and persistence became the foundation for one of Australia's most beloved children’s charities.

We talk about:

• Supertee's origin story
• Why hospital gowns needed reinventing for both medical functionality and children’s wellbeing 
• How Jason, with zero sewing experience, created a medically practical, emotionally empowering superhero garment
• Navigating the steep learning curve of becoming a first-time CEO in the NFP sector
• Building trust with donors through transparency and impact
• How he recruited his board, manages governance, and maintains clarity on mission
• Balancing passion and process while scaling an organisation
• The Marvel partnership, and the power of LinkedIn persistence
• Culture-building and leadership lessons that every CEO, new or seasoned can learn from

Whether you're building a purpose-led organisation from the ground up or taking the reins of an existing one, Jason’s journey is a masterclass in leadership, humility, and unwavering focus on purpose.

“I don’t need to know everything. I just need to know people who do.”

🌐 Learn more about Supertee at www.supertee.org.au

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

What does it take to grow a movement of grassroots giving across Australia? And how do you transition from GM to CEO while learning to lead through influence instead of doing?

In this powerful episode, we speak with Kristen Lark, CEO of The Funding Network Australia (TFN), the country’s largest collective giving movement. TFN has raised over $30 million for early-stage social change initiatives since 2013 — all through the power of live crowdfunding, storytelling, and community connection.

Kristen has been part of TFN since its inception, helping launch the first pilot events after moving to Australia from the US. Her professional journey spans the corporate and not-for-profit sectors in both countries, with expertise in marketing, stakeholder engagement, and strategic partnerships.

We talk about:

• What makes live crowdfunding so powerful and inclusive
• The cultural difference in giving between Australia and the US
• How to connect everyday donors with high-potential grassroots organisations
• Kristen’s internal transition to CEO: what made it harder, what she learned, and what she’d do differently
• Why CEO productivity isn’t about doing more — but thinking, creating space, and managing your energy
• The board relationship: building trust, transparency, and strategic support
• Letting go of perfectionism and embracing a leadership model built on trust, connection, and seeking help

Whether you're a first-time CEO, an aspiring leader, or someone rethinking how we fund innovation in the for-purpose sector this episode is filled with honest insights, relatable challenges, and practical reflections.

🔗 Links & Resources:

https://www.thefundingnetwork.com.au/

Book mentioned: What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle dive into one of the most complex and increasingly common topics facing the Australian not-for-profit sector: Mergers.

Drawing from personal experience leading both successful and failed merger processes, they unpack:

• Why NFPs are considering mergers now more than ever
• The top drivers of mergers: economic, regulatory, and technological
• What due diligence really involves (and what often gets missed)
• Why culture, brand, and legacy can make or break a merger
• The CEO's unique role in both the pre-merger and post-merger phases
• What to do when mergers don’t proceed — and how to manage comms
• Navigating your own identity, leadership, and value in a merged entity
• This is a practical and honest conversation that explores the realities behind the strategy - the human dynamics, the workload, and the leadership required to guide your team through change.

🔍 Key Topics and Timestamps

[01:00] Why mergers are front of mind for NFPs right now

[02:02] The three big drivers: economic pressures, regulation, and tech capability

[05:55] Integration: the hidden cost and who carries the load

[06:56] Brand, culture, and the emotional side of merging

[08:44] A cautionary tale: when mergers destroy the value they seek

[10:57] How CEOs can lead a successful integration (and what not to do)

[12:00] Pre-merger strategy: who’s in the tent and how to manage risk

[15:00] Announcing a merger vs keeping it confidential

[16:30] When mergers don’t proceed – managing with grace

[17:00] Board decisions, risk appetite, and the power dynamics of “mergers”

[20:00] Systems vs. culture: where should a CEO invest their time?

[22:00] What happens to the “other” CEO? Navigating identity post-merger

[24:00] CEO leadership through transition and how to prepare for the toll

Related Episodes:

Let's talk Mergers

For Purpose Mergers with Alex Green

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

If the word “merger” sparks fear across your nonprofit boardroom or leadership team, this episode of The NFP CEO Podcast is for you.

Today, we dive into nonprofit mergers, merger strategy for charities, and what it really takes for a CEO to lead a successful organisational merger in the for-purpose sector.

Our guest, Alex Green, has firsthand experience. As CEO of both Arthritis New South Wales and Arthritis Queensland, Alex led the transformation that resulted in The Arthritis Movement - a bold merger driven by strategy not crisis.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why some nonprofit mergers happen from a position of strength, not survival.

Learn how Alex and the Board made the decision to merge, not because they had to, but because they saw an opportunity to scale their impact for people living with arthritis.

The CEO’s critical leadership role during a merger:

From stakeholder management to board engagement and staff communications, Alex shares how non-profit leaders can steer their organisation's through uncertainty.

How to manage board dynamics across federated structures:

Discover the reality of juggling two different boards, multiple committees, and working groups and how Alex navigated governance challenges.

Strategies to manage staff engagement and avoid a culture divide:

Alex shares his approach to preventing an "us vs them" mentality, especially across state-based teams, by focusing on language, leadership presence, and regular communication.

Why measuring staff engagement during organisational change matters:

Hear how Alex replaced the traditional annual staff survey with an AI-driven weekly pulse survey and how it helped track sentiment and morale through the merger process.

CEO wellbeing and managing capacity during a merger project:

Alex offers honest insights on time management, burnout risk, and why a strong executive team is essential when CEOs take on major transformation work.

Key lessons for nonprofit boards considering a merger:

Alex reflects on governance, decision-making, and how both boards stayed focused on mission and beneficiary impact throughout the journey.

"A merger isn’t a sign of failure - it’s a demonstration of ambition, vision, and the drive to do better for your clients."

Are you a CEO, board member, or senior leader in the not for profit or for-purpose sector considering a merger?

This episode offers real-world insights, and leadership lessons to help you make informed decisions and lead with confidence.

Related Episodes:

Let's talk Mergers

For Purpose Mergers with Alex Green

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

For-purpose CEOs have many stakeholders to manage - from members,  funders and donors to staff, community, clients, and regulators. Each of these stakeholder groups brings different needs, expectations, and levels of influence. In this episode, Michelle and Danielle unpack how to manage the weight of stakeholder expectations with a focus on membership organisations.

What We Cover:

• Why for-purpose leaders often feel pulled in many directions
• Understanding your stakeholder landscape: funders, donors, members, staff, beneficiaries, community, Board, government, regulators, and strategic partners
• The importance of mapping your stakeholders and how to get started 
• Understanding relationships and influence
• Identify and prioritise stakeholders in relation to your organisation’s purpose and strategy
• Regularly assess the effectiveness of your engagement
• The Board’s role in stakeholder engagement—and how to work together effectively

Key Takeaways:

Clear, strategic engagement improves trust and alignment with your mission.

 Regularly revisiting and evaluating your stakeholder plan keeps it relevant and impactful.

Whether you're feeling stretched by competing demands or just starting to formalise your approach, this episode is your roadmap to managing stakeholders/members with confidence and clarity.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Have you always had volunteers in every organisation you've worked with? For many NFPs, volunteers are not just helpful, they are essential. With around 5 million Australians volunteering through formal organisations, their contribution to the sector is immense.

In this episode, we explore the role of volunteers in NFPs, from governance to frontline service delivery, and how CEOs can best leverage their time and skills.

✅ The wide range of volunteer roles—fundraising, events, administration, service delivery, and even board positions

✅ The economic value of volunteering—billions of dollars annually

✅ The benefits of volunteering - well-being, skills development, and social connection

✅ Challenges - managing volunteers effectively, ensuring reliability, and setting expectations

Formal Placements – University students completing research or semester-based projects

Casual Volunteers – Weekly or ad-hoc support roles like data entry, bookkeeping, or reception

Work for the Dole participants - people on unemployment benefits meeting their mutual obligation through volunteering.

Corporate Volunteering – Teams from businesses supporting projects (must align with purpose!)

Background checks – Are police or Working with Children checks required?

Induction & Training – How do you set volunteers up for success?

Workplace Safety – Volunteers aren’t covered by workers comp, so what protections do you have in place?

Whether it’s tonight or tomorrow, Join us as we unpack the opportunities and challenges of working with volunteers, and how you, as an NFP CEO, can ensure their contributions are both impactful and sustainable.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

As a new CEO, you're stepping into an existing culture and that culture might not be what you hoped for. In this episode, we unpack what it means to quickly understand the culture you've inherited, and how to begin shaping the one you and your board want.

Culture in the for-purpose sector is unique. People are often driven by deep belief in the mission. You'll hear comments like, “I’m passionate about the work we do, but the culture needs to change.” That passion makes it even more important for CEOs to ensure the culture is healthy, respectful, and sustainable.

We cover:

• The questions you should have asked during the interview
• How to do a “culture audit” without launching a survey
• Key early questions to ask board members and staff
• What the data tells you: turnover, sick leave (especially Monday to Friday patterns)
• Why this is your best window to ask blunt, honest questions
• How to spot silos, blame culture, or broken systems—and what to do about it
• Why clarity about your own values and leadership style sets the tone for culture change

If you're stepping into a new leadership role, this is your opportunity to take stock and set the direction for the kind of workplace you want to lead.

Related Episodes:

Do Organisational Values Hang on your Wall?

The Offsite Debate - Is it Worth It?

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Succession planning for CEOs is an important and often overlooked responsibility.

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle break down CEO succession planning for not-for-profit organisations, explaining why it matters, what it really involves, and how CEOs can turn a potentially stressful topic into a strategic advantage.

Too often, the first time a board raises the question of succession planning is in the middle of a meeting, sparking panic and confusion. But succession planning doesn’t have to be negative. It’s a critical governance practice that protects your organisation, strengthens leadership continuity, and ensures your mission endures beyond any one person.

Michelle and Danielle explore:

• Why CEO succession planning is a core board responsibility in the NFP sector.
• How to respond as a CEO when the board raises the issue.
• Practical steps to align your CEO position description with your organisation’s strategic plan.
• How to review team structures, delegations and business continuity plans to support leadership transitions.
• Ways to use succession planning as an opportunity for self-reflection, leadership development and honest conversations with your board.

This episode gives NFP leaders and boards a clear framework for CEO succession planning – from updating position descriptions and delegations, to assessing leadership capability and ensuring continuity of operations.

If you’re a CEO or board member in the not-for-profit sector looking to strengthen leadership continuity and organisational resilience, this episode will help you move beyond fear to action.

Find out more about The NFP CEO and how we support new and aspiring leaders in the for-purpose sector at www.thenfpceo.com.au.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Board meetings are key date in the CEO's calendar,and a lot of work often starts the moment they end. In this episode, we explore what happens after the Board meeting and how CEOs can anticipate and manage the crucial window of activity that follows. Whether it’s follow-up actions, communication with your team, or preparing for the next cycle, we break it all down into practical steps.

10 Key Takeaways:

1. Anticipate the Action Surge
2. Confirm and Review the Minutes
3. Action Items & Delegation
4. Communicate with Your Executive Team
5. Share with the Broader Organisation (when needed)
6. Follow Up with the Chair and Directors
7. Manage External Communications
8. Handle Governance & Compliance Follow-Ups
9. Update Strategy & Governance Documents
10. Reflect and Look Ahead

Start prepping for the next one - early feedback can help you improve papers, processes, and engagement.

Check out our other episodes on working with the Board:

 "How Do You Show Up for a Board Meeting?"

“The CEO - Board Chair relationship - it matters!”

“Board reporting: your CEO report”

“Are you bringing your team into the Boardroom?”

See you next Thursday. 

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Welcome to a new episode of The NFP CEO, where we unpack what it means to "show up" for a board meeting as the CEO. Whether you're preparing for your first meeting or looking to sharpen your board engagement, this episode will guide you through the boardroom experience.  

We explore how CEOs can prepare strategically, align with their Board Chair, anticipate questions, and understand the rhythm and culture of boardroom dynamics. You'll also hear how AI may play a role in how boards review CEO reports.

Topics We Cover:

• How to prepare for a board meeting, beyond just writing your report
• Why your first meeting is about observation and reading the room
• The importance of pre-meetings with your Board Chair
• Understanding board culture, agenda structure, and decision-making styles
• Presenting your CEO report: Are papers taken as read, or are you expected to summarise?
• Navigating boardroom dynamics: when to speak, when to step back
• How to influence the Board without overstepping your role
• How to respond if you don’t know the answer to a board question

The NFP CEO Insight:

It’s a board meeting, not a staff meeting. You’re not on the board, but you are in the room for a reason. Mastering how you show up prepared, strategic, and observant can shape your leadership success.

Also, check out our other episodes on working with the Board:

 "How Do You Show Up for a Board Meeting?"

“The CEO - Board Chair relationship - it matters!”

“Board reporting: your CEO report”

“Are you bringing your team into the Boardroom?”

See you next Thursday. 

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Listen in, as Michelle and Danielle debate on whether your organisations values should be hung on the wall!

Do you have your organisational values proudly displayed on the wall? Do you actively talk about them? And more importantly - do they ever change?

In this episode of The NFP CEO, we take a step-by-step approach into the real meaning behind organisational values and how they shape culture, behaviour, and decision-making.

Our co-host, Michelle shares insights from a recent experience helping an organisation redefine their values and the powerful impact it had.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Values should be more than words—they should drive behaviour.

✅ Ask the critical question: What does this value mean in practice?

✅ Values define what we do and what we don’t do—one organisation set “no gossiping” as a non-negotiable under their transparency value.

✅ A strong values-based culture supports psychological safety, accountability, and a learning mindset.

✅ Leaders play a key role by speaking up, modelling behaviours, and even owning their mistakes.

Before you ask marketing to paint values on the wall, tune in to explore how to make your values meaningful, shape a culture of integrity, and create a workplace where people feel safe to speak up.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Wondering if your structure is giving you "the right stuff"?    

In this episode, Michelle and Danielle dive into a topic that takes up a lot of time and brain space for CEOs - staffing structures and the right number of direct reports. Whether you're inheriting an existing team or building your own from scratch, the structure you choose has a major impact on productivity, communication, and your calendar.

We explore:

• Why staffing structure is a major focus during funding changes, or new projects
• The impact of too many direct reports on a CEO's time and focus
• How to think beyond a number - why working backwards from your available time might be a smarter approach
• The importance of having the right people leading teams to avoid silos and ensure alignment
• What to consider when composing your senior leadership team, including cross-functional representation
• Why monthly check-ins and regular feedback loops can be more effective than traditional annual appraisals
• Setting meaningful KPIs and goals that actually align with your organisation’s strategic direction

Structure should support your strategic plan, not strain your calendar.

See you next Thursday for another Episode of The NFP CEO.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, we dive into the complexities of managing different personalities within your executive team. Effective leadership requires an understanding of team dynamics, leveraging strengths, and addressing dysfunctions before they impact performance. Join us as we explore frameworks like Patrick Lencioni’s The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Gallup’s StrengthsFinder, and insights from Harvard Business Review on managing resentment.

Key Areas Discussed:

1. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team (Patrick Lencioni)

2. Understanding Gallup’s 34 Strengths

3. Managing and Mitigating Resentment in Your Exec Team

4. Practical Strategies to Address Resentment

Grab a coffee, your favourite dessert and settle in for a great conversation.

And, see you next Thursday.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode, we explore the world of for-purpose reporting, where your numbers and data come alive to tell a story of your impact. Our conversation delves into the nuances of segmenting service delivery, analyzing outcomes, and gathering feedback – all essential elements of a comprehensive report that drives meaningful results.

Segment 1: The Story Begins

We discuss the importance of understanding the limitations of traditional output-based reporting. We explore how shifting focus to outcome-based reporting can help demonstrate the true impact of NFP programs.

Segment 2: The Power of Outcome-Based Reporting

We examine the benefits of tracking outcomes, including demonstrating program effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement. This approach helps funders understand the value of their investment and informs policy decisions at higher levels.

Segment 3: Gathering Feedback and Case Studies

We delve into the importance of gathering feedback from clients, partners, and stakeholders through case studies and testimonials. This approach provides a more nuanced understanding of program impact and enables data-driven decision-making that benefits both the NFP organization and the individuals served.

Segment 4: Influencing Policy and Driving Change

We explore how for-purpose reporting can influence policy changes that support NFP missions. By sharing findings with policymakers and stakeholders, organizations can drive positive change in society and make a greater difference in the lives of individuals they serve.

Segment 5: The Future of For-Purpose Reporting

As we conclude our conversation, we reflect on the growing importance of for-purpose reporting in driving meaningful impact. We discuss the benefits of prioritizing this type of reporting and how it can empower NFPs to make a greater difference.

Pull out those reports, pour a drink and listen in to this special episode where Danielle and Michelle talk about the one task we never want to do, but demonstrates impact. 

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Welcome to The NFP CEO, where we dive into the latest strategies and studies for For Purpose CEOs looking to drive growth, improve culture and  governance, and build strong leadership teams.

In today's episode, Danielle and Michelle are going to explore how you work with your executive team and the Board:  when and how you bring your leadership team into the boardroom. 

First the pros. By having your senior leadership team attend board meetings, you can gain:

• Stronger Alignment: Execs get firsthand insight into board thinking around strategy and their expectations, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
• More Informed Decision-Making: The board gets direct exposure to company culture, exec skills, and real-time challenges, leading to more informed decisions.
• Improved Governance: Execs see the board in action and vice versa -  hopefully helping to understand each other’s roles. 

You'll also benefit from:

• Reduced burden of relaying board priorities to the team.
• Preparing your exec team for future leadership roles, they can step up when you are away (or leaving!)
• Execs better understand how their reports are used, leading to more effective reports and communication.

But, there are also cons to consider. You'll need to think about:

• Time: More prep and post-meeting debriefs with the exec team may be needed.
• Board Scrutiny: Your Board will be assessing your team as well as you - which may be an issue if…..  
• The Execs may express views that don't align with organisation’s strategic goals. 

Hopefully running down this list in light of your own team and organsiation you can make a decision about how you bring  your team into the boardroom in a way that benefits you, the Board and the organisation. It may require some adjustments to your leadership style and operations, but the benefits can be transformative.

Join us on The NFP CEO as we explore more strategies for CEOs of For Purpose organisations looking to drive growth, build strong leadership teams, and deliver value to their stakeholders.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode, Michelle and Danielle dive into a critical question for any CEO: do you truly understand your organisation’s culture?  

They explore the best ways to get across your organisation’s culture, when to assess it, the importance of not sending out a survey that everyone hates,, alternative feedback channels, and how CEOs can provide meaningful insights to their boards. 

Key topics include:

• The role of the CEO in shaping and measuring culture
• How to design a culture survey that is useful (and not overwhelming and gets responses)
• The balance between internal and external surveys for trust and anonymity
• Interpreting culture survey results—what they reveal and what to do next
• Turning employee feedback into meaningful action

Before you schedule that culture meeting with HR, tune in to this week’s episode on the when and how to survey your organisation's culture. 

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle break down how CEOs and senior leaders can craft briefing papers that actually get read and acted on. If you’ve ever wondered whether to prepare a briefing paper, what to include, or how to structure it so your board or committee can make clear, confident decisions — this is your practical guide.

Briefing papers don’t have to be long, dull or confusing. Done well, they’re a powerful leadership tool for influencing board decisions, securing funding approvals, gaining strategic input, and preparing your organisation for major initiatives.

• When to use a briefing paper vs. your CEO report.
• The three core purposes of briefing papers: decision, discussion, or noting.
• How to structure a briefing paper.
• Tips for writing compelling recommendations and draft board resolutions.
• How to present options, risks and opportunities — including the often-forgotten “do nothing” option.
• Why active tone, plain language and minimal jargon matter for busy directors.

Perfect For

• CEOs, executives and managers in the not-for-profit / for-purpose sector.
• New and aspiring leaders who’ve never been formally trained in briefing-paper writing.
• Anyone preparing papers for boards, committees or funders who wants decision-ready content.

Related Episodes:

The Board Pack - How to Write Effective Briefing Papers

The Board Pack - Structuring Your CEO Report

The Board Pack - Designing Effective Board Agendas as the CEO

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle revisit one of the most common pain points for new and aspiring CEOs - the CEO report. Building on an earlier episode, they dive deeper into what a CEO report should actually look like and share a simple structure that can save time, improve board engagement and make reporting far more effective.

Danielle introduces the “three-plus-three” framework, three main headings, each with three sub-headings and explains how she’s adapted it in her own CEO reports with input from board members. Michelle adds insights from her experience on both sides of the board table about how consistency, clarity and narrative make reports easier to read and respond to.

• How to co-design a CEO report framework with your chair or board
• Why a consistent structure improves readability and engagement
• How the “three-plus-three” approach works:
• Financial Performance – your commentary on revenue, cash flow, cost savings or funding issues (not just the numbers)
• Operational Updates – KPIs, HR metrics, Workplace Health and Safety, stakeholder or member updates, and customer feedback
• Strategic Initiatives – progress on your strategic plan, market analysis, risks, legislative change and big picture trends
• Tips for anticipating board questions and keeping narrative concise
• Why decisions or approvals you’re seeking from the board should be flagged upfront
• How aligning your CEO report with the board agenda can streamline meetings.

If you’ve ever wondered how to stop your CEO report from becoming “bigger than Ben Hur,” this episode gives you a clear, adaptable outline you can start using right away.

Related Episodes:

The Board Pack - How to Write Effective Briefing Papers

The Board Pack - Structuring Your CEO Report

The Board Pack - Designing Effective Board Agendas as the CEO

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

If you’re a CEO, you know the board agenda can feel like a mountain of work.

In this episode of The NFP CEO Podcast, Michelle and Danielle share their tried-and-tested approach to building a clear, effective board pack and agenda — one that saves time, sets expectations and keeps the discussions focused.

They cover:

• How to work with your Chair to plan the agenda and send papers on time
• The ideal structure for a board meeting:
• Formalities up front (acknowledgements, attendance, conflicts, minutes)
• Matters for decision (the high-brain-power items first)
• Matters for discussion (CEO and finance reports, committee updates)
• Matters for noting (information only)
• In-camera sessions and next-meeting details
• Why lifting decisions out of your CEO report gives your board clarity
• Tips for time-boxing agenda items so discussions stay on track
• How to use your CEO report to highlight, not rehash, key issues
• Ways to involve committee chairs and staff so ownership and accountability are shared

Whether you’re a first-time CEO or a seasoned leader, this episode will help you shape a predictable, and professional board agenda that gets the decisions you need and gives your board the best of its own expertise.

Need support with your board agenda or CEO report? Visit our website or connect with Michelle and Danielle on LinkedIn.

Related Episodes:

The Board Pack - How to Write Effective Briefing Papers

The Board Pack - Structuring Your CEO Report

The Board Pack - Designing Effective Board Agendas as the CEO

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO Podcast, Michelle and Danielle unpack the myths and realities of team-bonding activities in not-for-profit and for-purpose organisations. From strategy days to off-site retreats, icebreakers to “forced fun,” they explore what really strengthens workplace culture and what wastes time and money.

Whether you’re a CEO planning your first staff away day, a manager designing a strategic planning session, or a leader grappling with low engagement, you’ll get practical tips on how to make every team activity purposeful, inclusive and worth the investment.

• Why “forced fun” can backfire and how to avoid it.
• The difference between team-building and culture-building.
• How to plan effective off-sites, strategy days and engagement activities.
• The importance of clear objectives, realistic agendas and respecting staff time.
• Creative icebreaker ideas that actually work (and the ones to avoid).
• How physical space, facilitation style and “golden questions” shape participation.
• Practical examples from Michelle and Danielle’s own experience running not-for-profit strategy days and cross-team collaborations.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Danielle and Michelle are joined by Kate Connors , a highly respected psychologist and executive leader with deep expertise in workplace mental health, wellbeing, and coaching for senior leaders. Kate was formerly Chief Mental Health Officer at PwC, providing confidential support to partners nationwide, and has worked with hundreds of executives to build resilience, navigate pressure, and foster psychologically safe workplaces.

Together, we explore:

• Why leaders are people too and the mental health challenges CEOs and executives face, from anxiety and burnout to loneliness and self-doubt.
• The downward trend in leader wellbeing, and why it often goes unmeasured or unnoticed.
• Common warning signs for CEOs and executives, from withdrawal and irritability to over-control and micromanagement.
• Practical strategies leaders can use to stay well, from building a trusted “professional village” to intentionally designing their work and life.
• Why creating psychologically safe workplaces starts with CEOs role-modelling wellbeing for themselves.
• How boards, teams, and systems can better support leaders, rather than leaving them to shoulder unrealistic expectations alone.

Kate reminds us that leadership is demanding, complex, and human. Supporting leaders’ mental health isn’t just about individual resilience – it’s also about better work design, stronger relationships, and tackling the systems that create unsustainable expectations.

This is a must-listen conversation for current and aspiring CEOs who want to lead with courage, clarity, and care for themselves as much as for their teams.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle unpack the CEO’s role in a strategic planning day - a critical moment for setting direction and aligning the board, executive team, and staff.

We discuss whether a CEO should also try to facilitate (spoiler: it’s tricky), when to bring in an external facilitator, and how to decide who belongs in the room. You’ll hear practical advice on structuring the day for board engagement, balancing ambition with realistic outcomes, and ensuring the outputs become a usable strategic plan rather than just good intentions.

Other highlights include:

• Choosing the right facilitator: sector knowledge vs fresh perspective.
• The importance of preparation, agendas, and pre-work.
• How to capture discussions so strategy decisions don’t get lost.
• Using strategy days to strengthen board–executive relationships and team culture.

If you’re a nonprofit CEO or aspiring leader, this episode will help you run a strategy day that delivers clear priorities, stronger alignment, and practical outcomes.

Related Episodes:

Making Strategy Days Count - The CEOs Role

The CEOs Role in Strategic Planning

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO podcast, hosts Michelle and Danielle dive deep into the CEO’s role in strategic planning for not-for-profit and for-purpose organisations. If you’ve ever wondered how much a CEO should be involved—or how to make your next planning session truly effective—this episode is your roadmap.

Discover how to:

• Lead strategic planning in partnership with your board instead of leaving it to chance.
• Review your current strategic plan to identify what’s still relevant, what’s achieved, and what needs to change.
• Use sector analysis and environmental scanning to inform strategy in the Australian not-for-profit context.
• Create measurable and reportable KPIs that drive real outcomes.
• Bring draft strategic priorities to the board to focus discussion and speed up decision-making.
• Integrate beneficiary and stakeholder insights into your strategic direction.

Whether you’re preparing for your first strategic planning day as a CEO or refreshing your leadership approach, Michelle and Danielle share practical, real-world steps to ensure you walk into the room prepared and leave with a clear, achievable, and well-supported plan.

If you want to strengthen governance, align your board and executive team, and deliver a strategy that works in the real world, this episode is for you.

Listen now and learn how to set your organisation up for strategic success.

Related Episodes:

Making Strategy Days Count - The CEOs Role

The CEOs Role in Strategic Planning

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Many NFP leaders know they should be influencing government, yet too often advocacy becomes reactive, driven by crises, or focused on raising problems rather than presenting solutions.

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle are joined by advocacy strategist Louise Yablsey to unpack what effective advocacy really looks like and how CEOs can build long-term influence with governments, departments and decision-makers.

Whether you're a CEO of a service provider, a peak body or a growing for-purpose organisation, this conversation provides practical advice on creating an advocacy strategy that delivers impact.

In this episode, you'll learn:

1. Why advocacy is a core responsibility for many not-for-profit CEOs and not an optional extra.
2. The distinction between advocacy and activism.
3. Why the most effective advocacy strategies focus on influencing a small number of key decision-makers.
4. How to move beyond simply highlighting problems and instead present solutions government can act on.
5. Common advocacy mistakes that limit influence and waste valuable resources.
6. How CEOs can build trusted relationships with ministers, MPs, advisers and senior public servants.
7. Why advocacy should be embedded across your organisation's communications, not treated as a standalone activity.
8. Practical ways boards can support advocacy without becoming involved in day-to-day implementation.
9. Meaningful advocacy metrics that go beyond counting meetings and submissions.
10. How to measure influence, build credibility and strengthen your organisation's reputation over time.

Listen if you're:

1. A CEO or executive in the not-for-profit or for-purpose sector.
2. A board director wanting to better understand advocacy governance.
3. Leading an organisation through policy reform or funding change.
4. Building relationships with government or departmental leaders.
5. Looking to develop a more strategic and effective advocacy approach.

Subscribe to The NFP CEO for practical conversations on leadership, governance, strategy and the real-world challenges facing today's not-for-profit CEOs.

Louise Yabsley - Watt Advocacy & Communications

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Board papers are one of the most important tools a CEO has to support effective governance. Yet they're also one of the most common sources of frustration between CEOs and boards.

In this episode of The NFP CEO Podcast, Michelle and Danielle unpack the three biggest complaints directors raise about board papers and share practical strategies CEOs can use to improve board reporting, strengthen board relationships, and drive better governance outcomes.

If you've ever heard feedback that your board papers are too long, unclear, too detailed, or not strategic enough, this episode is for you.

One of the most common director frustrations is reading an entire board paper and still not knowing:

1. Why they're receiving it
2. Whether a decision is required
3. What action they need to take
4. What feedback is being sought

A consistent board paper template can dramatically improve board engagement and decision-making.

Many CEO reports become lengthy lists of meetings, activities, and operational updates.

The discussion explores how CEOs can structure reporting around strategic priorities and strategic pillars, helping directors connect operational activity to organisational outcomes and long-term strategy.

Trust between a CEO and board can quickly erode when directors feel important information is buried in lengthy reports.

Rather than avoiding bad news, effective CEOs demonstrate leadership by showing that risks have been identified, assessed, and are actively being managed.

✔ Make the purpose of every board paper clear from the first page.

✔ Tell directors exactly what you need from them - decision, discussion, feedback, or noting.

✔ Move beyond activity reporting and provide strategic insights.

✔ Structure CEO reports around strategic priorities rather than chronological updates.

✔ Report risks openly and explain how management is responding.

✔ Focus on helping directors govern strategically rather than drawing them into operational detail.

✔ Remember that effective board papers build trust, improve governance, and create better board conversations.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

When senior managers don’t step up, it creates pressure, frustration, and bottlenecks at the CEO level. But the cause isn’t always obvious and it’s rarely one-dimensional.

In this episode, Michelle and Danielle unpack the real reasons behind why managers hold back, from unclear expectations and organisational culture to CEO behaviours and structural constraints. They explore how leaders can diagnose the issue, shift their own approach, and build the capability and confidence of their teams.

This is a practical conversation about creating space, building trust, and developing the kind of leadership bench strength that allows CEOs to focus on what matters most.

1. Two sides of the same problem
2. The clarity trap
3. Learned helplessness in compliance-heavy environments
4. The CEO as bottleneck
5. From tasks to thinking
6. Role modelling vs. telling
7. Building strategic thinking
8. Creating safe space for growth (and mistakes)
9. Practical ways to develop your team

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode, we continue unpacking the implications of the Star Entertainment Group governance case—one of the most significant corporate governance rulings in decades.

While much of the public conversation has focused on large, listed companies, the lessons are just as critical for CEOs in the for-purpose sector. If you report to a board, operate under the Corporations Act 2001, and are responsible for organisational performance, this case applies to you.

We move beyond theory and explore what CEOs must actually do—in practice—to discharge their duties when it comes to risk.

We cover:

1. Why simply reporting risks is no longer enough
2. How CEOs can demonstrate they’ve exercised care and diligence
3. What boards really need from you when it comes to risk
4. How to structure risk reporting so it cuts through complexity
5. The critical (and often overlooked) role of culture in risk management

If this episode has raised questions or highlighted gaps, Danielle and Michelle invite you to connect via LinkedIn or through The NFP CEO website.

Sometimes a short conversation can make a significant difference.

The content in this episode is not to be taken as legal advice. We are not lawyers. CEOs should consider these points thoughtfully and determine what applies to their own organisation.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Failure is a word most leaders avoid. But in this episode of The NFP CEO, Danielle and Michelle sit down with strategy and communications expert Chris Savage to unpack why setbacks are actually a normal and necessary part of leadership.

One of Chris’s key insights is that leaders need to reframe failure as a setback. If you’re pushing an organisation forward, turbulence is inevitable. The real test isn’t avoiding mistakes — it’s how you respond to them.

In the conversation, Chris shares several “brutal truths” about setbacks:

1. Leaders need to face reality quickly and honestly.
2. Don’t keep investing in something that clearly isn’t working.
3. Some setbacks simply happen — take them on the chin and move forward.
4. If you’re trying new things and creating momentum, setbacks are unavoidable.
5. Plans matter, but leaders must also pivot and respond to what’s in front of them.

Key themes from the episode

1. Why leaders should reframe failure as setbacks
2. Facing reality and taking accountability
3. Building resilient teams that can talk openly about mistakes
4. Creating momentum with small wins and achievable goals
5. Balancing honesty with optimism as a leader

Guest: Chris Savage | LinkedIn

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, we sit down with Ethne Irving, CEO of the Royal Australian College of Dental Surgeons, for a refreshingly honest conversation about stepping into the top job.

Ethne didn’t come in cold—she spent over a decade as Deputy CEO at the Australian Dental Association and even stepped in as Interim CEO. But as she shares, nothing quite prepares you for the moment when you realise:

There’s no one else to turn to. The decision is yours.

One of the biggest shifts Ethne talks about is surprisingly simple—but significant.

As a deputy, you always have someone to bounce ideas off. Someone to sense-check. Someone to ultimately make the call.

As CEO?

You are that person.

Ethne describes missing those informal “chew the fat” moments—while also stepping into a new level of responsibility where every decision, big or small, lands with you.

Her approach hasn’t been to go it alone though. Instead, she leans into collaboration, constantly asking her team:

“What would you do if you were in my seat?”

Letting Go of the Detail (Even When It’s Uncomfortable)

Another big adjustment? Not knowing everything.

After years being deep in the detail, Ethne found herself needing to make decisions without having the full history or all the moving parts in her head.

And that’s the role.

With a strong leadership team in place, she’s had to shift from knowing everything to:

1. Asking better questions
2. Trusting others’ expertise
3. Getting just enough information to move forward

It’s a different kind of confidence.

If you’re stepping into a CEO role or thinking about it, this conversation is a grounded, honest reminder that:

1. You don’t need to have all the answers
2. You do need to ask better questions
3. Leadership is as much about presence as it is about strategy

And most importantly - You figure it out by doing the job.

If you’re navigating that step up into CEO, this is a very real, very practical conversation.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Culture rarely breaks overnight - it's a shift that happens slowly and subtly.

In this episode of The NFP CEO, we unpack how CEOs can recognise early signs of disengagement, diagnose what’s really driving it, and take practical, leadership-led action to rebuild trust, clarity, and momentum.

From navigating funding pressures and reform in the Australian for-purpose sector, to resetting expectations across your leadership team, this episode provides a clear, no-nonsense roadmap for restoring a healthy organisational culture, without superficial fixes.

If you’re sensing something is “off” in your organisation but can’t quite prove it yet, this episode is for you.

We cover:

1. The Moment You realise the Culture Has Shifted

2. Culture Is a Leadership System, not a Feeling

3. Diagnose Before You Act: What’s Really Driving Disengagement?

4. The CEO’s First Job: Restore Clarity and Direction

5. Rebuild Trust Through Visible Leadership

6. Reset Standards: What You Tolerate Becomes the Culture

7. Fix the Leadership Spine First

8. Culture Recovery Is About Momentum, Not a Big Gesture

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

This week on The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle take a timely look at a major corporate governance case making headlines across Australia: the court judgment involving Star Entertainment Group.

The ruling has been described as one of the most significant corporate governance decisions in decades. While the case centres on a large listed company, the implications reach far beyond the corporate sector, including CEOs in not-for-profit and for-purpose organisations.

In this episode, Michelle and Danielle unpack the key themes emerging from the judgment and explore what CEOs can learn from it. In particular, the court found that the former Managing Director and CEO, along with the Chief Legal and Risk Officer, breached their duties of care and diligence. Interestingly, the case against the non-executive directors was unsuccessful.

So what does that mean for CEOs?

Most commentary so far has focused on the responsibilities of directors. But in this conversation, Michelle and Danielle flip the lens and examine what the decision signals for CEOs, especially when it comes to reporting, organisational culture, risk escalation, and the relationship between management and the board.

Michelle and Danielle describe this judgment as a “check-in moment” for CEOs. Not a cause for alarm but an opportunity to pause and ask:

1. Are the right risks being escalated?
2. Are reporting systems strong enough?
3. Would the board easily see the most important issues?
4. Is the organisational culture one where problems surface quickly?

This discussion reinforces a simple truth: being a CEO carries enormous responsibility and good governance is built not just on processes, but on transparency, curiosity, and culture.

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If this episode sparked a new perspective on leadership in the for-purpose sector, share The NFP CEO with a colleague or fellow CEO. Your support helps more leaders build stronger organisation's and create greater impact.

To review the judgement: Australian Securities and Investments Commission v Bekier (Liability Judgment) [2026] FCA 196

The content in this episode is not to be taken as legal advice. We are not lawyers. CEOs should consider these points thoughtfully and determine what applies to their own organisation.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Supervision meetings are an important leadership tool a CEO has, but often poorly used. Too many become either a work-in-progress checklist or an unfocused catch-up that doesn’t add much value.

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle unpack how CEOs should structure supervision with their direct reports so that meetings drive clarity, accountability, strategic thinking, and leadership development.

They discuss how regular supervision can act as an early warning system for organisational risks, how CEOs can create a culture where issues are raised early, and why these meetings are critical for aligning leaders to the organisation’s strategy.

You’ll also hear practical advice on structuring the agenda, setting expectations for preparation, and using supervision conversations to build stronger leadership capability across your organisation.

This episode is essential listening for new CEOs, aspiring CEOs, and executive leaders in the for-purpose sector who want to lead high-performing teams without being buried in operational detail.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Andrea has spent more than 20 years working with CEOs across Fortune 500 companies, mid-caps, and high-growth firms in seven countries. A former CEO himself, he has built cross-cultural teams, led organisational transformation, and coached leaders through high-stakes transitions.

Host of the globally ranked top 5% podcast, World Class Leaders Show, his work centres on helping CEOs create the rare space to think differently, perform at their peak, and grow into the leader their organisation truly needs.

1. Why the first 30 days are the “moment of truth” for a new CEO
2. The importance of defining your leadership identity early
3. Understanding board expectations and establishing a single source of truth
4. The framework of Identity, Message & Presence and why alignment builds trust
5. How inconsistency destroys culture and credibility
6. The concept of the Identity Gap — when past success no longer serves you
7. Why different contexts (crisis, growth, regulation) require different leadership identities
8. The power of early wins in building CEO traction
9. Why vulnerability and feedback are essential for peak performance

This episode will help you think differently about how you show up, and how you lead.

Andrea Petrone website and podcast: andrea-petrone

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Effective director onboarding is critical for strong governance, productive board relationships, and organisational performance. In this episode, Michelle and Danielle explore how CEOs can play an active role in onboarding new board directors, even when recruitment decisions sit with the board or members.

This conversation focuses on practical steps CEOs can take to build clarity and trust early, helping new directors quickly align and understand the organisation’s strategy, risks and operating environment.

New directors shape board dynamics immediately. A strong onboarding process helps:

• Accelerate understanding of organisational context and strategy
• Clarify governance boundaries and communication protocols
• Reduce unnecessary friction in early board meetings
• Build productive CEO–board relationships from day one
• Support faster, more informed decision-making

Early CEO involvement ensures new directors gain insight into how the organisation actually operates beyond documents and formal induction materials.

• Clarifying the CEO–Board Relationship
• Helping Directors Understand the Operating Context
• Walking Through Strategy
• Governance Expectations and Board Value
• Introducing the Leadership Team
• Culture, Clients, and Real-World Exposure
• Talking About Risk and Opportunity
• Practical Logistics and Early Support

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle speak with Rob Barnes, CEO and co-founder of Betty AI, about what artificial intelligence looks like in real-world practice for associations, charities, and for-purpose organisations.

If you’re a nonprofit CEO or senior leader wondering where to start with AI, this conversation breaks down practical use cases, strategic thinking, and leadership lessons from the front lines of digital transformation.

1. Why AI is fundamentally changing how nonprofits manage and use knowledge
2. How associations and for-purpose organisations are uniquely positioned to benefit from generative AI
3. Practical examples of AI in advocacy, member engagement, service delivery, and knowledge management
4. How AI can increase reach, impact, and operational efficiency — not just productivity
5. Guardrails against AI “hallucinations” and maintaining trust in organisational knowledge
6. A CEO framework for deciding where to start with AI strategy
7. Lessons from launching an AI startup during rapid technological change

Guest: Rob Barnes Co - Founder, Betty AI: Betty Home Page

Book referenced in episode: Inside Scoop: The Association Knowledge Cycle Demystified

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

The power of no.

As a not-for-profit CEO, opportunities come at you from every direction—boards with big ideas, funders with new initiatives, partnership proposals, and emerging community needs. The challenge isn't finding opportunities; it's deciding which ones deserve a yes.

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle unpack a practical decision-making framework to help leaders assess strategic opportunities with confidence. Rather than relying on instinct, optimism, or pressure from others, they explore how CEOs can evaluate opportunities through multiple lenses to determine whether they truly advance the organisation's purpose and strategy.

Sometimes the most strategic leadership decision is saying no.

In This Episode

1. Why CEOs and boards often default to saying "yes"
2. The hidden costs of pursuing every opportunity
3. The difference between asking "Can we do this?" and "Should we do this?"
4. How to create a structured framework for strategic decision-making
5. Why saying yes to one thing always means saying no to something else
6. The role of strategic fit, culture, capability, and stakeholder impact
7. When collaboration may be a better option than ownership
8. Why pilots can be a powerful way to test opportunities safely
9. How to distinguish between opportunities that propel the organisation forward and those that become anchors

Access to the NO-FRAME matrix: NFP CEO Resources: Empowering Nonprofit Leaders

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, we unpack what disability-inclusive leadership looks like in practice, and what CEOs can do right now to build confidence, capability and impact.

Disability inclusion is often well-intentioned but poorly executed. This episode challenges leaders to move beyond policy and into CEO-led action.

• Why disability inclusion matters
• Why disability is not one experience, and why assumptions based on diagnosis fail
• How inclusive design benefits everyone, not just people with disability
• The common gaps leaders miss
• What disability-inclusive leadership looks like at CEO and board level

Resources for CEOs

Homepage - Australian Disability Network

Get Skilled Access - Disability Inclusion Consultancy

Twenty Percent Disability Inclusion Advisory

Disability Leadership Institute

Disability Inclusion @ Work 2024 | Deloitte Australia

Creating a disability inclusive workplace

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Recruiting a CEO in the not-for-profit and for-purpose sector is an important Board decision and yet for many leaders, the process can seem full of unspoken rules.

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle are joined by Rachael McLennan, co-founder of People for Purpose, to demystify how executive recruitment actually works in the social impact sector - from board expectations and search processes to interviews, psychometrics, salary conversations and the role of AI in applications.

What you’ll learn in this episode :

1. The real difference between recruitment and executive search in CEO appointments
2. How CEOs get hired for roles that are never advertised
3. What boards look for when choosing their next CEO
4. The red flags and green flags recruiters see in CEO applications
5. How to use AI when applying for senior leadership roles
6. What the CEO recruitment process typically involves from start to finish
7. Why culture fit can matter more than capability
8. When and how salary conversations really happen in the for-purpose sector
9. How board experience strengthens your CEO career pathway
10. What’s changing right now in not-for-profit executive recruitment

If you’re an aspiring CEO, a current executive thinking about your next move, or a board member preparing for a leadership transition, this episode is essential listening.

GUEST:

Rachael McLennan from Homepage - People for Purpose

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Constitutions don’t usually top the list of things CEOs want to talk about, but they should. In this solo episode, Michelle takes a practical, CEO-focused look at constitutions and the provisions that may trip leaders up, especially around AGMs, membership, and board governance.

This episode was sparked by multiple conversations with CEOs at the end of 2025 who discovered that their constitutional provisions no longer aligned with how their organisation actually operates. That misalignment can create real risk often at the worst possible moment.

This is not legal advice, but it is a walkthrough of what CEOs need to understand, watch for, and actively manage.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why constitutions matter more than you think
• Objects clauses: basic hygiene
• Membership: where things get messy fast
• Disputes and disciplinary provisions
• AGMs: the hidden traps
• Board elections and director appointments
• Board composition and structure
• Director terms, rotation, and exits
• Payments, alternates, and delegation
• Changing the constitution

As a CEO, you don’t need to memorise your constitution but you do need to understand it well enough to spot risk, plan timelines, and avoid preventable governance crises.

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

How do you hold people to account without damaging trust or becoming the bottleneck?

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle unpack practical ways CEOs and senior leaders can build a culture of accountability, set clear expectations, and lift performance, without micromanaging or avoiding tough conversations.

In this episode, you’ll learn how to:

• Set up accountability from the start so difficult conversations are easier later
• Shift from managing tasks to leading for outcomes
• Avoid micromanagement while still staying across delivery
• Use clear guardrails: authority, risk appetite, values and boundaries
• Build a “no surprises” culture where issues are raised early
• Hold people to account without becoming the problem-solver-in-chief
• Stop “taking the monkey” and keep accountability with the right person
• Handle underperformance in a way that strengthens, not weakens, culture
• Use accountability as a tool for leadership development, not just compliance
• Create consistency across your executive and senior leadership teams

Connect with us:

LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedIn

Website: thenfpceo.com.au

Michelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedIn

Danielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn