Explore every episode of the podcast Calibration Point Podcast

In the seventy-seventh episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, we’re sharing a portion of our recent free JDLA Lunch & Learn, What Is the Right Media Mix to Drive Growth for Your Nonprofit? Jake Stamper explores how nonprofit leaders can think more intentionally about the communication tools they use and how those tools work together to strengthen relationships, engagement, and growth. If you weren’t able to join us live, this episode brings the heart of that conversation to the podcast.

In the seventy-sixth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie Levy shares key findings from JDLA’s 2026 Executive Director Health and Wellness Assessment. He explores the pressures nonprofit leaders continue to carry—including staffing shortages, funding challenges, board engagement, and leadership sustainability—while highlighting the resilience and hope that remain strong across the sector.

In the seventy-fifth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie and Jay Height discuss trying something surprisingly simple: making people smile. Jay shares how “Indigo the Blue Jay,” a puppet created for Shepherd Community Center, has become a creative tool for communicating with board members, donors, families, students, and staff in ways that feel personal, memorable, and strategic.

In the seventy-fourth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie and Bob Jones discuss how organizations can strengthen their culture and effectiveness by intentionally adopting a mission-first way of thinking. Through reflections on board service, fundraising, staffing, and leadership, Jamie and Bob Jones show that when people truly believe in and align with the mission, they build stronger relationships, make better decisions, and create a more lasting foundation for the future.

In the seventy-third episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, JDLA sits down with Zac Kester (EVP at Donum) to unpack a quietly game-changing idea: charitable gift financing—using strategic, non-recourse loans to increase giving while creating meaningful tax efficiency. If you’ve ever wondered how donors can unlock significantly larger philanthropy without “writing a bigger check,” this conversation lays out the mechanics, the risk safeguards, and why the long-term upside can benefit both charities and families.

In the seventh-second episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Holly Sullivan - CEO of Youth First - and Jamie unpack what happens when a deeply invested board member steps off the dais and into the CEO chair. Learn the inside story of a board-to-CEO succession done with transparency, intentional timing, and deep relational trust — with staff, donors, and a 30+ member board. Their dialogue challenges every board member to ask a bold question: “Do I believe in this mission enough that I’d consider working here?"

In the seventy-first episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie and Senator John Crane wrap up their six segment series on leadership. Having already covered The Who, Where, Why and How, Jamie and Senator Crane walk through how to put these key things into place to create a successful leadership system. Don't miss listening in as they "land the plane" on this impactful series.

On the seventieth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie and Senator John Crane continue on their leadership series with segment five, focusing on the "how". With only two segments remaining, you won't want to miss listening in as they continue to breakdown effective leadership.

On the sixty-ninth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie and Senator John Crane continue their acclaimed Leadership Series with "Segment 4: The Who of Leadership." The critical first "who" is ourselves. Senator Crane explains that our ability to impact others is directly tied to our personal disciplines, clarity of mission and purpose, and life outlook. The fundamental lesson: we must master self-leadership before we can effectively lead others. Tune in as Jamie and John deep-dive into integrating the principles of leading yourself and leading others.

On this sixty-eighth episode of The Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie and Senator John Crane continue their popular leadership series, focusing on the critical question: Where are you going? Many don't realize how deeply connected the "Why" and the "Where" of leadership truly are. Tune in as Jamie and John break down how to map a path forward and ensure your current direction perfectly aligns with your overall mission.

On the sixty-seventh episode of The Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie continues our journey with Senator John Crane, CEO of JBC Leadership Strategies. Over the next few months, Senator Crane and Jamie will unpack the 'why,' 'where,' 'who,' and 'how' of effective leadership. This episode dives deep into the WHY of leadership, offering actionable steps for success. Don't miss this foundational episode—it sets the stage for everything to come.

In the sixty-sixth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie Levy sits with Bob Jones, who has a plethora of experience as a high level CEO and a civic engaged volunteer, who has now entered a new season of retirement. Bob breaks down how the transition to retirement and how it can be so difficult because your life and career are so connected. Bob and Jamie talk about the importance of succession, the grieving process of retirement but also the pride that can come along with it. You won't want to miss the opportunity to learn from all Bob and his company did right. Listen in!

On the sixty-fifth episode of the Calibration Point podcast, Jamie Levy talks with Senator John Crane, who is also the CEO of JBC Leadership Strategies, about the DNA of leadership. Jamie and John break down the foundational framework of leadership and how important it is. You won't want to miss this episode outlining the building blocks you need for strong leadership.

On the sixty-forth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie welcomes back Bob Jones, who has had significant CEO Leadership roles in both corporate and non-profit spaces. Bob and Jamie discuss over Bob's career of leadership the few things in the nonprofit sector Bob wishes someone would have told him about. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from Bob's experiences. Listen in.

On the sixty-third episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie Levy and Jake Stamper dive in to part 2 of the 2-part series on branding. If you haven't already taken a listen to part one on episode sixty-one, make sure you do so! Jake has earned his title in the community as the brand guru. You won't have to wonder why when you listen in.

On the sixty-second episode of The Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie Levy sits down with Sarah Downing, Director of Philanthropic Sustainability at JDLA and a current doctoral student in Strategic Leadership. Together, they dive deep into the intersection of culture and leadership. Sarah sheds light on how good intentions often fall short of creating real impact. Drawing from research-based insights, she challenges the common belief that simply "leading by example" is enough—and explains why intentional, active leadership is essential to building a truly ethical culture. This episode is packed with practical strategies you can implement today to move beyond good intentions and start actively shaping the culture your organization needs to thrive.

On the sixty-first episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks with Jake Stamper, 30 year marketing expert about branding. Jake explains what a brand even is. He also breaks down how the rightly developed brand can transform human resources, organizations and philanthropy. Don't miss part 1 of this 2-part series.

In the sixtieth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie speaks with Zac Kester, managing partner and founder of Charitable Allies breaking down how to protect the interest of a founder. Jamie and Zac discuss several scenarios that Jamie encounters frequently. Zac provides a unique and valuable perspective breaking down both the legality but also as a founder himself. You don't want to miss this valuable episode.

In the fifty-ninth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie and Mason Rummel, CEO/President of the James Graham Brown Foundation dive into the concept of donor intent, exploring the ethical and legal obligations foundations have to honor the wishes of their donors. Do you ever wonder how foundations decide how to spend their money? Listen in to learn how donor intent impacts the nonprofit sector and how you can ensure your own charitable giving aligns with your values.

In the fifty-eighth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie discusses with Zac Kester of Charitable Allies the risks non-profits face. Nonprofit organizations are facing increasing legal risks. From donor intent disputes to potential liability for program failures, it's crucial for nonprofits to have strong risk management strategies in place. This episode explores common pitfalls, such as underinsurance and inadequate documentation of donor intent. It also highlights the importance of evaluating program effectiveness to mitigate potential harm. Listen in to learn more about how understanding these risks and taking proactive measures, nonprofits can protect their missions and ensure long-term sustainability.

In the fifty-seventh episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks to Eric Cummings, a founder who has transitioned out of the organization he founded and into a full time role with another organization. Eric provides a unique perspective as he reflects on the challenges he faced going from leading and organization to working inside one. You won't want to miss the opportunity to listen in.

In the fifty-sixth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks with Sarah Downing, Director of Philanthropic Sustainability for JDLA, regarding Transactional versus Transformational leadership. As Sarah journeys through her doctoral program, she provides such valuable insight for us to learn how we affectively lead and follow. You won’t want to miss listening in.

In the fifty-fifth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks with Elisabet Sena-Martin on the impact of immigrant communities on community philanthropy. Elisabet has a wealth of knowledge not only from her personal experiences, but also as an Immigrant Community Organizer. Listen in to learn how you can create more unity in your not only in your community but also your organization by learning how to connect your donors from different cultures.

In the fifty-fourth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie connects again with Paul Linge, Executive Coach and Director of Crossroads Counseling Center, to unpack bitterness catalysts in the workplace. Bitterness can come from many sources, but Paul helps break down three diagnostics as well as an antidote for bitterness in an organization. Don’t miss listening in.

In the fifty-third episode of the Calibration Point podcast, Jamie talks with Bob Jones, who brings a plethora of experience as a CEO, board chair, philanthropist amongst others about what he learned during a time when he was board chair of an organization that went into bankruptcy. Bob talks about how important it is to remember who you are, what your mission is and make sure your dreams have substance. You won't want to miss the opportunity to learn from Bob's experience. Listen in.

In the fifty-second episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie addresses the question of listeners as to what makes organizations successful. Through extensive research and experience Jamie shares 7 common characteristics that those organizations experiencing success have in common. You won't want to miss the chance to listen in.

In the fifty- first episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks with Dave Engbrecht, who has over 5 decade of experience, about the heart and science of board leadership. Dave, passionate about board health, breaks down the core elements of board leadership. Don’t miss the opportunity to listen in.

In the fiftieth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks with Keron, Process Improvement Consultant, about cross cultural engagement and third culture engagement. Keron provides amazing insight not only as a consultant, advocate, volunteer and philanthropist but also as an India native having grown up in Canada and now residing in the United States. You won't want to miss as Keron shares engagement tools and barriers. Listen in.

In the forty-ninth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast Jamie talks with Sherri Chaney Jones, Founder and CEO of SureImpact. Sherri and Jamie break down how we view and measure impact may not always paint the whole picture and the value in capturing the right information surrounding your "whys". They also dive in to how the "why" is sometimes seen differently depending on what lens it is being viewed through. You won't want to miss tuning in for the episode.

In the forty-eighth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks with Cara about her career change from dental hygiene to an executive for her family foundation. She shares some of the biggest surprises she experienced in her transition. You will enjoy listening in to hear the unique perspective Cara has and the value it offers.

On the forty-seventh episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie talks with Eric Cummings, founder of Community One and Jessica Welcher about how positive succession planning made a difference as Eric exited and Jessica entered the organization. When so many things can go wrong in transitions, they share how having a plan and great coaching helped for smoother transitions. It may come as a surprise to learn that only 15% of non-profits even have succession plans for their ED/CEO. When a ED is stepping away, the goal is not to replace them with a replica of themselves but rather someone with new skills to bring to the table. Jamie, Eric and Jessica dive deeper into succession planning and why it is important to have plans in place that are not just for emergencies. You won't want to miss listening in.

On the forty-sixth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie Levy talks with return guest Jay Height- Executive Director of Shepherd Community Center about navigating political and legislative influence. It may come as a surprise that you can build relationships and understanding with elected officials regardless of affiliation. You don't want to miss listening in and seeing how those relationships can impact your organization.

In the forty-fifth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast Jamie does things a little bit differently. Jamie shares audio from a live training he has done on indirect and direct expenses. Listen in to learn how direct expense + indirect expense = change.

On the forty-fourth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Javontay Moss, an event and communication coordinator for a midsize nonprofit as well as person coming from management within Chick-Fil-A, joins Jamie to discuss what Javontay has learned through Chick-Fil-A that has translated to making him more affective the non-profit sector. Listen in as they dive into three major take aways that Javontay notes from Chick-Fil-A that he took with him to the non-profit world.

In the forty-third episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, per the request of many listeners, Jamie gives a mid-summer reminder of some fundamentals about giving. Jamie will dive deep into breaking down who is giving and how they are giving. As well as why they give and what the impact is. Tune in for a motivating refresher to take into your next quarter.

On the forty-second episode of the Calibration Point Podcast Jamie talks with Paul Linge, director of Crossroads Counseling Center about leadership wellness, mental health and the especially intriguing topic, leadership regret. Paul explains how regret is not only looking in the rearview, but also looking ahead and preventing future regrets. Paul also explains how regret isn't a one size fits all and often falls on a spectrum. You won't want to miss tuning in.

On the fortieth episode of the Calibration Point Podcast Jamie dives deeper in to Board Governance with Jon Tyler (one of the country's fore most legal experts on nonprofit governance). Jon sheds so much light on what his experience as a board member, legal counsel and foundation guide has taught him about board governance and what role it plays in non-profits being effective and efficient.

In our fortieth podcast, Jamie talks with Bill Stanczykiewicz, Director of the IU Fund Raising School, about not only the importance of stewardship, but more significantly what that actually looks like. We think we know what stewardship is and how to use it, but in reality we often do not. Stewardship is so much more about being in relationship with both current and prospective donors in ways that don’t involve asking for financial gifts. Unpack with Bill and Jamie, all of what stewardship really is and can do for your organization.

In our thirty-eighth podcast, and in light of his recent book “Merged: The Culture of Change in Organizations”, Jamie further unpacks how individuals respond to culture change. When an organization undergoes significant change, there are four typical responses that are made. Check out this podcast to better understand those choices and why they are made.

Joel Hopper reflects on the differences between service on non-profit and for-profit boards. Unpack the meaning of governance, accountability, urgency, member expertise, and more.

In our thirty-seventh podcast, Jamie talks with Phil Powell about the 2023 economic outlook. This is our second economic discussion with Phil, and you can listen to our first chat “Understanding Inflation for Nonprofits” from August 2022. Phil is the Associate Dean of Indiana University Kelley School of Business.

The thirty-sixth in the Calibration Point Podcast Series, Jamie talks with Candice Perry about executive director burnout. Candice is the Nonprofit Excellence Officer for Welborn Baptist Foundation.

In our thirty-fifth podcast, Jamie speaks with Wes Terry about donor receipts and their importance to both the donor and the organization, along with specific details that are critical to remaining compliant. Wes has an MBA in Finance, is a CPA with a nonprofit focus, and is a former federal auditor.

In the seventh episode of the Calibration Point Podcast, Bill Stanczykiewicz joins us to discuss Engaging your board in fundraising. Bill is the Assistant Dean of External Affairs and directs the Fundraising School at the Indiana University School of Philanthropy. Today we discuss the board, and its role in creating impact in fundraising.

In our thirty-fourth podcast, Jamie speaks with Sarah Downing about using visuals to create impact. Sarah is the JDLA Director of Philanthropic Sustainability.

In our thirty-third podcast, Jamie talks with Phil Powell about what the nonprofit sector needs to understand about inflation. Phil is the Associate Dean of Indiana University Kelley School of Business.

In the thirty second Calibration Point Podcast, Jamie interviews Tricia Hollander Henning and Terri Hollander Albini of The Hollander Group. They discuss the impact of inflation and recession on investors and donors.

In our thirty-first podcast Jamie talks again with Paul Linge about the pain of leadership.

In our thirtieth podcast, Jamie speaks with Paul Linge about forgiveness.

In our twenty-ninth podcast, Jamie talks with attorney Susan Trent, of the Rothberg Law Firm, about “Sunsetting Foundations”.