This episode explores three powerful questions every nonprofit leader should regularly ask to stay focused, intentional, and effective. Instead of getting caught up in external pressures, it shifts the spotlight to personal leadership, including how you show up, how you listen, and how you support others’ growth. These questions can serve as a simple but strong check-in to guide your leadership in a more authentic and impactful direction.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

What if your greatest impact as a leader isn’t in directing others — but in coaching them? In this episode, we'll explore how leaders can embrace coaching competencies to build trust, create awareness, and foster real growth within their teams. From active listening to facilitating development, you'll gain practical tools to engage your team more deeply and help them thrive.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

A common mindset in the nonprofit sector is that of scarcity. Meaning, there is a preoccupation with a perceived lack of resources. When you focus on limitations, it hinders your success and your organization’s effectiveness. So, if you’re finding yourself in a place of limiting beliefs, here's how you can overcome it.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Are you a toxic leader?

On this episode, we'll discuss the common characteristics of a toxic leader and what to do if you have some toxic tendencies in need of attention.

Website mentioned in this episode: NAMI.org 

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

“I just want people to like me.” I hear this from time to time from my executive coaching clients, and it makes sense. When you're a well-liked leader, it's easier to inspire and guide your team toward a common goal. 

A likable leader possesses a unique blend of qualities that endear them to their team. On this episode, we discuss how can you cultivate them to become a more effective and influential leader.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Nonprofit leaders have a significant, ever-changing workload, lots of personal and professional commitments, and the weight of their organization on their shoulders. Understandably, time is scarce and the need for streamlined productivity is heightened.

On this episode, we'll share a few time management techniques that can help drive your productivity, including:  

- Pomodoro Method
- Eisenhower Matrix
- Time Blocking
- Day Theming
- Pareto Principle
- ABC Method
- Eat the Frog
- Two-Minute Rule
- Getting Things Done System
- ALPEN method

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

We're back with more leadership blunders! In this episode, learn from my leadership mistakes so you don't repeat them.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Do you find it challenging to create or honor your boundaries? If so, you're not alone. Self-sacrifice runs rampant in the nonprofit sector and it can be hard to stick to your boundaries when someone is in need. This behavior leads to burnout and it's not really helpful to anyone in the long run. Join us and learn to reduce stress, enhance productivity, and improve your overall well-being by maintaining healthy boundaries. 

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Drama not only sucks up your time, but also saps your energy and weakens your organization. And, sadly, it's often tolerated because you're too overwhelmed to address it. Today's episode offers tips for stopping or avoiding drama once and for all so you and your team can focus all of your energy on what's truly important.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Ah, technology. Sometimes, it provides an amazing solution, but it can also be a significant challenge, especially in the nonprofit space.

On today's episode, we're joined by Gayle Boyer of Gayle Boyer & Associates who helps us identify when technology can be helpful and how to proceed when it's not.

Nonprofit-specific technology resources Gayle mentioned:
- TechSoup
- Tech Impact
- Tech for Good

Connect with Gayle:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gayleboyer/
Website: https://gayleboyer.com/ 

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

One of the biggest time sucks in your day is meetings. People in the nonprofit sector love meetings, but is your time being used as effectively as possible? On today’s episode, I share some quick ideas to help you streamline meetings, focus your attention, and accomplish more while saving time.

Topics include:
- The basic components of a successful meeting
- Standing meetings
- Timed agendas
- The talking stick
- The "one breath" rule
- Gamification
- The parking lot
- The 1:3:1 method
- The meeting-free day

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

If you’re feeling overloaded, one surefire way to alleviate some pain is to say no. It sounds so simple – No.  Unfortunately, many people have difficulty saying that little word. If you’re one of them, you’re in the right place. 

In today's episode, we explore why people are challenged in saying no, steps to take to feel more comfortable saying it, and questions to ask yourself before saying yes.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

As a nonprofit leader, you’ve likely faced the challenge of well-meaning board members drifting into operational territory. In this episode, we’ll explore the fine line between governance and management and what to do when that line gets blurred. From clarifying roles and strengthening relationships to setting boundaries and leaning on your policies, you’ll walk away with practical tools to navigate board scope creep with professionalism and grace. Whether you're a seasoned Executive Director or new to the role, this conversation will help you lead with clarity while preserving the crucial relationships that power your mission.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Today, we welcome Christine Smith, Owner of Lighten Up & Flourish. Christine is a Certified Laughter Yoga Leader and Trainer who aims to bring more joy and laughter into people's lives through her unique services.

I recently attended one of Christine's laughter yoga sessions and it definitely lifted my spirits. Join us to learn how the simple act of laughter can help reduce stress, improve physical function, and make your day a little easier. 

The book Christine mentioned is Laughter Yoga: Daily Laughter Practices for Health and Happiness by Dr. Madan Kataria.

Connect with Christine:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lightenupandflourish/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-smith-bb458b3a/
Website: https://www.lightenupandflourish.com/ 

Sign up for Christine's newsletter to receive information about her free, online laughter yoga sessions!
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Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

On today's episode, we cover the challenges associated with difficult discussions, and steps you can take to make them easier.

Whether you're sharing bad news, giving constructive feedback, or discussing an awkward topic, some conversations are difficult by design. Don't let your discomfort with these discussions cause you to put your head in the sand and hope it goes away. It won't. In fact, it'll probably get worse, requiring more of your time and attention than if you addressed it in the first place. So, have the conversation!

Here's a link to my Discussion Planner: https://songbirdleadership.com/discussion

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

On the surface, delegating seems like such a simple concept–-assigning tasks to others on your team. In reality, it can be a complex, frightening, and nebulous notion for many. But it doesn’t have to be that way. 

On today's episode, we discuss the reasons why people don't delegate, and what you can do to become a better delegator and get some time back in your day in the process.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

We all make mistakes and I've certainly made some big ones over the years. In this episode, I share some of my more memorable leadership blunders and what I have learned, so you can take steps not to repeat them.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

A new hire's initial experience with your organization builds the foundation for their long-term employment success. As a nonprofit leader, your onboarding activities can make or break that first impression. It can also take up a fair amount of time in your day. But it doesn't have to! In this episode, we explore ways to enhance the employee onboarding experience, while also saving you some time in the long run. 

Visit SongbirdLeadership.com/Onboarding for your free copy of our onboarding tool.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Ayurveda is an ancient system of wellness based in nature that promotes balance. Many nonprofit leaders crave more balance in their lives, making Ayurveda an interesting self-care option to explore. Shannon Sabol of Grateful Life Health Coaching + Yoga joins us to discuss Ayurveda, share tips to help the overloaded nonprofit leader get more rest, and provide suggestions for people who feel depleted.

Connect with Shannon:
Website: gratefullifehealth.com
IG: @shannon.gratefullife
FB: @shannon.gratefullife 

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Everyone could use more hours in the day, especially nonprofit leaders. In this episode, we discuss how to conduct a time audit to examine your ideal workday vs. how you're currently spending time, and creating goals to create more alignment between the two. 

Visit SongbirdLeadership.com/Time for your free copy of our time audit worksheet tool.  

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Join host Jill Fowler as she and industry experts share actionable tips to help overloaded nonprofit professionals optimize operations, refine their leadership skills,  and practice self-care--all while finding more time in their day.

New episodes every Tuesday beginning in April. Join us!

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Join us as we tackle one of the most common challenges in nonprofit leadership: keeping board meetings engaging, purposeful, and productive. We’ll share practical strategies to help you rethink how your board comes together, creating space for meaningful dialogue, stronger decision-making, and a renewed connection to your mission. Whether you're leading the meeting or just trying to survive it, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to lead with intention.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Values aren't just words on a page, they're the heartbeat of your organization's culture. In this episode, we'll explore practical, creative ways to bring your nonprofit’s core values to life every single day.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Making difficult decisions is part of the job as a nonprofit leader, but that doesn’t make it any less lonely, stressful, or heavy. In this episode, we dive into what it really feels like to carry the responsibility of big choices that affect your team, your mission, and your community, and share some tools for making those tough decisions a little easier.

At the end of the day, there may not be a perfect answer, but there is a thoughtful, values-aligned path forward. And you don’t have to walk it alone.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

We're honoring self-care needs and taking the week off. See you next time!

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Can your board members passionately articulate your organization's mission in the community? Do they readily embrace their fundraising role? Are they present and actively participating in board and committee meetings? 

In this first episode in a series on board relations, we’re going to discuss five quick, concrete ideas you can implement in relatively short order to help improve your board’s level of engagement. 

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

How do you properly prepare yourself to truly lead during a time of crisis? In this episode, we cover three types of crises and share tips on how to respond.

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.

Good gut health is valuable for everyone, but it’s especially important if you’re feeling stressed out and overwhelmed. Maintaining your gut is a key component of self-care, as it improves mood and mental health, boosts energy levels, and supports brain and immune system function – all of which are vital for you to be at your best.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
- Pub Med
- InsightTimer
- Harvard Health
- Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Examine
- Food & Nutrition
- Molecules of Emotion, by Candace Pert

Connect with Pam Stropko of 4 Corners Holistic Wellness Coaching:
- Website: 4CornersHWC.com
- Instagram: @4cornershwc
- Facebook: 4 Corners Holistic Wellness Coaching
- LinkedIn: @PamStropko
- pam@4cornershwc.com

Connect with host Jill Fowler on LinkedIn.

This episode was brought to you by Songbird Leadership -- Amplify your organization's mission through outcome-based executive coaching, strategic planning, and capacity building.