Explore every episode of the podcast Nonprofit Hub Radio
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trauma-Informed Storytelling For Nonprofits | 23 Oct 2026 | 00:27:46 | |
A nonprofit story can open hearts, change policy, and fund lifesaving work—but it can also leave people dysregulated, ashamed, or shut down if told the way the sector traditionally has. In this episode, Maria Bryan, Partnership Marketing Manager at Donorbox and creator of When Bearing Witness, steps into a crucial conversation on trauma-informed storytelling and why standard “ethical storytelling” isn't enough when narratives land in real bodies with real lived experience. We get specific about what trauma actually is—a nervous system response to perceived unsafety—and how it surfaces across the entire storytelling ecosystem: for the story owner, the audience, and the nonprofit marketer. Maria breaks down why high-impact formats like emotionally intense gala videos or hospital scenes can trigger viewers and create negative associations. The goal isn't watered-down narratives, but telling the truth safely through renewed consent, content warnings, and donor autonomy. Hit play to learn how humane storytelling practices protect dignity and build lasting donor trust! Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Ethical Storytelling That Raises More Money | 16 Oct 2026 | 00:31:35 | |
How do you tell deeply human stories without reducing the people you serve to a tragic footnote? In this episode, Matt Kamin (founder of Envision Consulting and host of Nonprofit Happy Hour) joins us to tear down the outdated playbooks of nonprofit marketing and fundraising. We get vulnerable about what true consent-based storytelling looks like, why every client story needs an expiration date, and how staying visible in an AI-driven world requires transparent, outcome-focused truth over polished spin. Beyond communications, we tackle the tough leadership decisions that make or break organizational survival. We challenge the martyr mindset in the sector and get real about why tax status should never dictate business efficiency. Together, we explore how to structure boards that actually work, why endowments aren't emergency safety nets for poor planning, and how letting go of executive ego can open up transformative mergers and partnerships. Grab your favorite beverage, hit play, and jump into the conversation with us! Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Capital Campaign Myths | 09 Oct 2026 | 00:33:44 | |
Most capital campaigns don’t struggle because the mission is weak—they struggle because the board is working from myths. In this episode of Nonprofit Hub Radio, Amy Eisenstein and Sarah Plimpton from Capital Campaign Pro join us to unpack what really drives successful major gift fundraising and what board members need to understand before voting to "just go for it." From demystifying feasibility studies and navigating the crucial quiet phase to right-sizing trustee roles beyond just asking for money, this conversation offers a practical roadmap to keep your fundraising on track. Whether you are preparing to launch a new campaign or trying to re-energize one that has stalled, tune in to discover how disciplined planning and strategic donor engagement can turn boardroom assumptions into transformative results. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| How to Talk About Legacy Gifts Without Talking About Death | 02 Oct 2026 | 00:31:26 | |
Search traffic to nonprofit websites is down roughly 35%, which means the way donors discover causes is actively changing. If someone wants to include a nonprofit in their will, hunting for basic details like an EIN or address can cause that moment to pass. Lindsay Newman and Brantley Boyett from Giving Docs sit down to discuss how to make legacy giving simple, accessible, and deeply engaging for supporters. We clear the air on some common misconceptions around planned giving—moving beyond basic bequests to cover beneficiary designations, donor-advised funds, and practical estate planning tools. Lindsay and Brantley explore how to talk about legacy gifts without leading with awkward mortality messaging, why clear gift acceptance policies protect organizations long term, and how making a legacy commitment actually increases a donor's annual giving by 70% for the rest of their life. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Practical Capital Campaigns: Demystifying the Mountain Climb | 25 Sep 2026 | 00:31:13 | |
If "capital campaign" brings to mind massive building projects or an overwhelming all-or-nothing effort, this conversation offers a fresh perspective. Daniel Hussey, head coach and lead campaign strategist at HPC, breaks down what capital campaigns actually mean for modern nonprofits and why small to medium-sized organizations are fully capable of executing them. Rather than an intimidating climb straight to the summit, Daniel outlines a clear six-phase roadmap that breaks the effort into manageable base camps—from internal strategy and feasibility studies to quiet phases and long-term donor stewardship. The conversation explores how grounding campaigns in strategic planning reduces board anxiety and how using an AND-gift approach protects your regular annual giving while securing transformational major gifts. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| AI Can Help You Listen to Donors Better | 18 Sep 2026 | 00:31:17 | |
We sit down with Derric Bakker, founder and CEO of Dickerson Bakker and author of A Better Way to Fundraise: Treat Every Donor Like a Major Donor, to discuss why modern fundraising feels increasingly transactional, exhausting, and disconnected from its true purpose. Derric shares the airport story that inspired his philosophy and outlines why every supporter—regardless of gift size—deserves to feel seen, valued, stewarded, and invited into meaningful partnership. The conversation breaks down the seven behaviors of relationship-based fundraising, explains how AI can be leveraged to listen to donors at scale without losing authentic human-to-human connection, and offers a compelling path forward to cure fundraiser burnout. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Ethical Storytelling That Respects People | 11 Sep 2026 | 00:29:55 | |
Dr. Derria Ford of Seed Fundraisers shares a practical, repeatable framework for collecting and sharing nonprofit stories while keeping dignity, agency, and consent at the center. Here we explore what ethical storytelling looks like in practice—moving away from single-checkbox release forms, writing alongside clients rather than over them, and avoiding the trap of exploiting hard moments for fundraising gain. We discuss practical consent strategies, navigating modern pressure points like AI-generated imagery, and proving that hope-filled, data-backed narratives can inspire donors just as effectively as traditional appeals. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Major Gifts Without The Gimmicks | 04 Sep 2026 | 00:27:47 | |
If your calendar is packed with galas, auctions, golf outings, and “one more event” that still doesn’t fix your budget, this conversation is for you. We sit down with Sherry Quam Taylor, CEO of Quam Taylor, to talk about the simplest and hardest shift in nonprofit fundraising: getting out from behind the tactics and back into real human donor relationships. We dig into why so many mid-level and major donors are not giving their best gift each year and how well-meaning fundraising events can quietly cap generosity. Sherry shares a clear principle we can use right away: our job is to lead every donor to their best gift, not just the easiest gift. From there, we unpack how to move from “fun project” storytelling to confident, business-minded conversations about strategic plans, growth, and the true need for general operating support so you can fund salaries, benefits, and infrastructure without feeling awkward. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Why Better Systems Cannot Fix Bad Leadership | 28 Aug 2026 | 00:27:29 | |
In this episode of Nonprofit Hub Radio, leadership coach and author Nick Reich explores why systems and software cannot solve foundational leadership challenges. The discussion delves into the "full circle leader" framework, the critical difference between vision and direction, and how balancing high expectations with deep care—defined as "love with standards"—helps nonprofit teams shift out of burnout and into a sustainable growth zone. Nick Reich is the CEO of Abundant Empowerment and the author of Every Player Is Bigger Than The Program. With over 25 years of experience spanning school social work, poverty alleviation, global health, and executive coaching, Nick supports nonprofit and corporate leaders in building high-performing teams and human-centered organizational cultures. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Turning Big Visions Into Fundable Plans | 21 Aug 2026 | 00:27:09 | |
You can run an inspiring nonprofit and still feel lost the moment a P&L hits your inbox. In this episode, Michael Baldree, founder of Crosswind CFO Advisory, breaks down how executive directors who came up through the program side can build a true partnership with finance. We unpack what a healthy relationship with your CFO or finance lead actually looks like: one where finance understands the heart of your mission, respects your vision, and works alongside you to turn ambitious goals into fundable, step-by-step realities without being the "wet blanket." We also dig into practical strategies for long-term sustainability, clearing up common myths around revenue diversification and earned income. Michael breaks down what nonprofit tax status actually allows, how to choose earned revenue streams that match your core strengths, and the simple monthly report checks and internal controls that protect small teams from fraud. Whether you're looking to transition from backward-looking financial reports to forward-looking cash flow planning or wondering if fractional CFO services fit your budget, this conversation delivers actionable tools to move your mission forward. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Protecting Momentum in Nonprofit Leadership | 14 Aug 2026 | 00:31:04 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, Alison Teitelbaum of AST Strategies shares practical insights on how executive directors and boards can protect strategic direction, reduce friction, and keep teams energized through transition and change. The conversation covers essential techniques for overcoming mission creep, such as "level setting" decisions with clear context, measurable goals, and explicit reopening criteria. Teitelbaum details strategies for transitioning legacy organizations from working boards to strategic boards through training and term limits, while offering startup leaders a lighter cadence for keeping strategic plans active and aligning board vision with daily staff realities. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Talent Infrastructure That Actually Works | 07 Aug 2026 | 00:29:29 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, Allison Wyatt, founder and CEO of Edgility Talent Partners, shares practical strategies for constructing sustainable talent infrastructure around compensation, performance management, and career progression. Together, they unpack how establishing clear compensation philosophies and transparent salary scales can reduce distrust, reduce churn, and protect equity across an entire organization. The conversation explores practical ways to navigate organizational growth, from using FAST goals as a lightweight starting point for small teams to rebuilding roles from a clean-slate view. Wyatt explains how to avoid the trap of "we’re a family" culture by setting healthy workplace boundaries and applying an 80/20 approach to role clarity. Leaders will also gain actionable advice on approaching performance management through coaching, using the Situation, Behavior, Impact framework for constructive feedback, and utilizing tools to keep both their mission and their people strong. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Roberts Rules For Real Boards | 31 Jul 2026 | 00:28:31 | |
In this episode, parliamentary attorney Jim Slaughter discusses why Robert’s Rules of Order remains essential for nonprofits seeking faster, fairer, and clearer board meetings. The conversation explores how to match meeting formality to board size, how chairs can guide balanced debate without turning meetings into courtrooms, and key strategies for navigating virtual governance challenges like Zoom "shadow debate". Jim Slaughter is a parliamentary attorney, Certified Professional Parliamentarian, Professional Registered Parliamentarian, and author. He serves as a trusted advisor to professional associations, corporations, and nonprofit boards on meeting procedure, bylaws, and parliamentary law. Learn more at lawfirmcarolinas.com. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Redefining Nonprofit Marketing as Direct Mission Work | 24 Jul 2026 | 00:29:25 | |
An organization can run the best mission in town and still get ignored simply because supporters are flooded with digital noise. The host sits down with Bradley Martin, VP of Sales and Marketing at Feathr, to get honest about what nonprofit marketing looks like when the average person is hit with thousands of impressions a day and organic reach keeps shrinking. If the word “marketing” still feels too salesy, this conversation reframes it in plain terms: fundraising, donor engagement, and staying present so people remember a cause when they are ready to act. The episode digs into why traditional channels like email and direct mail aren’t dead, but face clear operational caps. The shift then moves to the real unlock: earning a donor’s share of mind through smarter cadence and segmentation instead of just increasing volume. Bradley breaks down the high ROI of running retargeting ads for anonymous website visitors who showed initial interest but never converted, navigating privacy parameters cleanly, and pairing digital ads with email workflows to boost response rates during critical seasonal campaigns. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Nonprofit Growth Without Losing the Mission | 17 Jul 2026 | 00:26:10 | |
Nonprofit Hub Radio sits down with James Ryzhkov, Head of Growth at Bezalel Lab, to explore what it really takes to "double" a nonprofit without turning the mission into a spreadsheet goal. The conversation challenges KPI-first thinking, digs into the leadership and clarity problems that block growth, and offers practical ways to build focus, systems, and a message donors can actually repeat. James Ryzhkov is the Head of Growth at Bezalel Lab, where he pairs a technology background with a strategic outlook on the nonprofit sector. His focus is closing the gap between the meaningful work nonprofits do and the systems they need to grow it sustainably. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Tell The Robot To Get Some Water | 10 Jul 2026 | 00:31:53 | |
When your work depends on trust and relationships, AI can feel like a threat. In this episode, we sit down with Lizzie Neufeld, CEO and founder of Strat Labs, to unpack the fear surrounding automation and explore how nonprofits can move forward without losing the human touch. The big takeaway: AI works best when it focuses on operations and internal capacity first, allowing fundraisers to spend less time buried in administrative tasks and more face-to-face time with donors. Instead of searching for flashy new tools, Lizzie argues for a process-driven approach—mapping exactly where your team loses time and momentum each week so you can use systems, like project management platforms, to fix those leaks. Tune in to learn practical guardrails for auditing AI-generated content, how to automate major donor follow-ups while keeping humans in control, and why operations thinking and storytelling are the two skill sets that will matter most moving forward. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Not Your Grandma's Bingo: How Charity Gaming Can Fuel Nonprofit Fundraising | 03 Jul 2026 | 00:25:56 | |
Nonprofit Hub Radio sits down with Meggie Nauman and Rob Northrop, both from Lancaster Bingo Company, to explore why charity gaming can be a repeatable fundraising program rather than a once-a-year event. The conversation breaks down who bingo works best for, how to navigate licensing and compliance, and what it takes to make game night entertaining enough that players keep coming back and bring friends. Meggie Nauman is the Director of Marketing and Customer Service at Lancaster Bingo Company, where she has spent eight years helping charitable organizations connect with sales support to build successful bingo and pull tab fundraising programs. Rob Northrop is the General Manager at Lancaster Bingo Company, where he focuses on helping nonprofits, veterans groups, and fraternal organizations fundraise more efficiently and grow their community impact through charity gaming. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Fixing Philanthropy | 26 Jun 2026 | 00:27:23 | |
One big check shouldn’t be able to rewrite a nonprofit's mission, but that’s exactly how many organizational budgets are built. This episode features Vincent Jones, CEO of Beyond Impact, to challenge the status quo and unpack a blunt claim: philanthropy’s current funding structure is a design failure. The conversation gets specific about how the “low overhead” mindset starves organizations of fundraising capacity, traps teams in constant donor courting, and concentrates power in a handful of decision-makers instead of the communities nonprofits serve. Jones breaks down the two structural problems he sees most: the pressure to chase a small number of major donors and the sector’s tendency to fund only 501(c)(3) work even when the goal is systems change. Using a clear "ER vs. intersection" analogy, he explains the practical operational differences between a 501(c)(3) and a 501(c)(4) in plain language, detailing why C4 advocacy and lobbying can target root causes while C3 programs often focus on essential short-term relief. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Operations That Make Nonprofits Work | 19 Jun 2026 | 00:37:04 | |
In the nonprofit world, urgency is constant and that makes operations easy to neglect. Yet operational excellence is often the difference between a mission that scales and a team that burns out. This conversation focuses on nonprofit operations, process improvement, and leadership clarity through a surprising origin story: learning business systems inside McDonald’s. The point is not fast food, it is repeatability. When an organization can explain how work gets done, it can train faster, protect quality, reduce errors, and improve donor and client experience without relying on heroics. That is the hidden engine behind sustainable impact, healthy culture, and staff retention. This session features insights from Nickie Froiland of MODIS9, exploring the operational habits that make mission-driven teams run smoothly. The conversation connects process discipline to clear priorities, decision authority, and the hard leadership work of letting go so a team can grow. From parsing out key priority rankings to navigating the identity shifts of leadership transitions, this framework brings operational leadership into plain language. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| AI Without The Hype | 12 Jun 2026 | 00:30:11 | |
In this episode, Sal Salpietro, Chief Growth Officer at Daytaro, unpacks what AI really means for nonprofits—where 82% use AI but only 10% have a policy. He offers a simple filter for evaluating tools (does it still work with the AI turned off?) and distinguishes AI-enabled "helpers" from AI-native "doers." He also shows how to scale AI without losing the human side of fundraising, sharing real examples of predictive modeling that reorders donor outreach and slashes list-building time. Plus, why nonprofits can't afford to stand still—and two book picks to close. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Words That Win Trust | 05 Jun 2026 | 00:30:26 | |
In this episode, communications strategist Vanessa Wakeman explores the high-stakes reality of modern nonprofit messaging, where public scrutiny and evolving language demand a more responsible approach to communications. Wakeman shares a practical framework for moving past draft-paralysis, building narrative resilience against digital threats, and effectively segmenting audiences to ensure every donor, volunteer, and community partner feels accurately seen. From auditing internal lexicons to establishing proactive crisis guardrails, this conversation provides marketing teams with the strategic tools necessary to confidently protect their organization's narrative. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Neurogiving Explained | 29 May 2026 | 00:36:10 | |
Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of Neurogiving! This high-energy episode cracks open the human brain to reveal the hidden biological drivers that actually spark generosity while moving way beyond old-school fundraising myths to show how identity and deep-seated emotions pull the strings of donor decisions long before they even see a "Donate" button. Listeners will walk away with a toolkit of actionable strategies—from slashing the "cognitive load" that kills conversions on digital forms to turning a cold CRM into a powerhouse of donor identity and trust. Plus, this conversation tackles the big questions: how to ethically use AI to make philanthropy more human and why "manufactured urgency" is officially backfiring in our world of attention burnout, giving you the chance to align your mission with the way donors are actually wired to give! Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Trust & Revenue: Optimizing Nonprofit Donation Pages | 22 May 2026 | 00:32:24 | |
Online donation forms are often the most overlooked friction point in nonprofit fundraising, yet they serve as the ultimate moment of donor conversion. In this episode, Danielle Rice, Senior Director of Solutions at Fundraise Up, breaks down how nonprofits can bridge the trust gap by treating their donation experience as a core product rather than a simple processing step. The discussion covers practical ways to leverage modern payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay to reduce friction, the difference between "creepy" and helpful personalization, and the critical need for AI governance and clear privacy policies to protect donor data. By focusing on a "Jobs-to-Be-Done" framework and aligning technical improvements with organizational goals, fundraising teams can move beyond tactical traps and build a sustainable, high-trust digital giving experience. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| How One Executive Director Grew A Counseling Nonprofit Through Crisis And Change | 15 May 2026 | 00:29:57 | |
Nonprofit leadership longevity is increasingly rare, yet staying the course can be a powerful strategic advantage when coupled with the right management systems. In this episode, Janelle Miller Moravek, Executive Director of Youth and Family Counseling, shares her nearly two-decade journey of leading a community-based mental health nonprofit through various strategic "eras"—from a funding crisis to mission expansion and navigating a global pandemic. The discussion offers a grounded playbook for sustainable nonprofit management, focusing on relationship-driven leadership with clinical professionals, the transition from development director to executive management, and the shift from rigid long-range planning toward guiding principles. Beyond organizational strategy, the conversation dives into the personal habits necessary to prevent executive director burnout, emphasizing boundaries, peer support, and tactical prioritization to protect focus and mission impact. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Is Your Nonprofit Missing Out on the "Biggest Screen" in the House? | 08 May 2026 | 00:26:10 | |
Connected TV (CTV) advertising is often viewed as a "big brand only" channel, but modern streaming inventory is making television marketing increasingly accessible and affordable for nonprofits. In this episode, Chris Johns, founder and CEO of AdGood, explains how organizations can leverage unused streaming inventory to drive donor acquisition and brand awareness with budgets as low as $250. The conversation breaks down the technicalities of CTV, the importance of human-centric creative hooks, and tactical approaches to omnichannel attribution using QR codes and retargeting tags. Additionally, the episode explores how AI-driven ad tools are removing production barriers by generating editable video content directly from a nonprofit's website, allowing even small teams to treat marketing as a disciplined, scalable growth lever. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Nonprofit Finance That Actually Helps | 01 May 2026 | 00:27:30 | |
Finance often feels like a part of nonprofit leadership to be tolerated rather than utilized until a cash crunch forces decisions into panic mode. In this episode, Ryan Alexander, founder of RA Partners and author of Protect Your Mission, discusses the financial infrastructure required to keep growing missions from getting derailed. The conversation covers the practicalities of cash flow forecasting, including how to model unpredictable revenue using timing and probability to avoid painful surprises. Additionally, the episode tackles the complexities of grants management, the distinction between revenue recognition and actual cash flow, and the "people side" of finance—from hiring a nonprofit CFO to evaluating audit readiness and Form 990 preparation. For leaders seeking financial best practices that protect their programs, staff, and credibility, this discussion provides a comprehensive and clear starting point. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Your Best Influencer Is On Payroll | 24 Apr 2026 | 00:32:51 | |
Your nonprofit already has influencers, and they’re sitting in your staff meetings. In this episode, Meghan Speer talks with Deanna Tomaselli from The Motherhood: Influencer Marketing Agency about employee-generated content and why it is the most realistic, budget-friendly way to grow nonprofit visibility, trust, and community support. We dig into how to make advocacy work by keeping participation optional, training staff on the platforms they already use, and addressing brand safety concerns head-on with clear social media guidelines and crisis protocols. Deanna Tomaselli is a seasoned communications leader at The Motherhood, an agency specializing in influencer marketing and community engagement. With years of experience bridging the gap between brand voice and personal authenticity, Deanna helps organizations empower their teams to share mission-driven stories effectively. She is a passionate advocate for "Step Into Your Story" training, helping staff and volunteers find their unique voices to build deeper connections with donors and stakeholders. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| What If Real Leadership Starts With Being Human | 17 Apr 2026 | 00:25:25 | |
We explore the quiet creep of nonprofit burnout and the "dehumanized leadership" patterns that often cause it. Moving beyond standard metrics, this conversation dives into the vital difference between "checking up" on goals versus "checking in" on people, and why the most effective leaders are those willing to start hard conversations without having all the answers. By focusing on psychological safety and vulnerability, we provide a roadmap for rehumanizing mission-driven work and building a workplace culture where high performers can actually thrive long-term. James Dismond serves as the CEO of MiraSol Health, an organization providing comprehensive medical and social support services. As a seasoned nonprofit leader, James is dedicated to fostering healthy organizational cultures and developing leadership strategies that prioritize employee wellbeing alongside mission success. His expertise in navigating the complexities of mission-driven environments helps leaders move away from "pedestal culture" toward more authentic, sustainable team engagement. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Stop Treating Channels Like Islands: Building an Omnichannel Ecosystem | 10 Apr 2026 | 00:32:18 | |
A lot of nonprofits still plan fundraising like every channel lives on its own island, then wonder why “more posting” doesn’t turn into more giving. In this episode, Ben Smithee, Chief Growth Officer at NextAfter, unpacks what happens when you build an omnichannel fundraising ecosystem where each touchpoint increases familiarity, trust, and momentum toward a gift. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Sustainable Giving: Opportunity, Risk, and What’s Next | 03 Apr 2026 | 00:29:37 | |
Monthly giving is exploding, but a lot of nonprofits are still treating recurring donors like a one time gift that repeats. We sit down with Dave Raley, founder of Imago Consulting and author of The Rise Of Sustainable Giving, to talk about what changes after the “big idea” phase and what it takes to build a mature sustainable giving program that donors actually trust. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Unlocking Social Media Fundraising | 27 Mar 2026 | 00:29:53 | |
Social media can feel like a dead end for nonprofits: you post, you hope, you celebrate likes, and somehow the donations still don’t show up. We sit down with Nick Black, CEO of Good United and founder of Stop Soldier Suicide, to get brutally honest about why “good work” isn’t a fundraising strategy and why donors can’t be treated like ATM machines. Nick shares how losing fellow soldiers to suicide pushed him to build a nonprofit from scratch and how that lived experience shaped his obsession with practical, repeatable relationship-building. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| From Inbox Noise To Impact: Nonprofit Email That Works | 20 Mar 2026 | 00:25:25 | |
Stop writing emails no one wants to open. We sat down with email strategist Amanda Nicholson to unpack why “email is dead” keeps getting repeated—and why the data says otherwise for nonprofits seeking real donor relationships and measurable results. From the first line to the final click, Amanda breaks down how to turn a crowded inbox into a steady channel for funding, volunteering, and community. If you’re ready to turn messages into momentum—more opens, more clicks, and more impact—hit play. Then subscribe, share this episode with a nonprofit friend, and leave a quick review telling us your next test. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Nonprofit PR Done Right | 13 Mar 2026 | 00:30:45 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Podcast, Rhiannon Hendrickson, founder and senior strategist at Orapin, unpacks the often-overlooked role of public relations in a nonprofit’s communication strategy. From building authentic relationships with reporters and pitching stories that connect to larger community conversations, to preparing spokespeople and crafting clear talking points, Rhiannon shares practical guidance for earning meaningful media coverage. The conversation also dives into crisis communications—why “no comment” can do more harm than good, how transparency builds trust, and what every organization should include in a crisis PR plan. Packed with actionable insights, this episode equips nonprofit leaders to move from reactive, ad hoc publicity efforts to a more strategic, credibility-building approach to PR. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Universal Charitable Deduction: What Nonprofits Need to Know Now | 06 Mar 2026 | 00:29:02 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Podcast, Joshua Crowther, Vice President at Dunham+Company, breaks down recent tax policy changes that could significantly impact charitable giving. Drawing from newly commissioned donor research, he explains how updates to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction and the introduction of a universal charitable deduction may unlock new generosity—especially among Gen X and Millennial donors. With only 25% of donors currently aware of these changes, nonprofits have a timely opportunity to increase giving through simple, strategic messaging—without turning their communications into tax seminars. The conversation explores what this means for development teams, how to position the message appropriately across donor segments, and why this potential boost matters in a year marked by economic uncertainty and declining donor confidence. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| The Fundraising Flywheel: How to Raise Funds Without Feeling “Icky” | 27 Feb 2026 | 00:32:49 | |
Feeling uneasy about asking for money? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Duerksen, CEO of BuildGood, to break down a simple flywheel that takes the pressure off the ask and builds trust through the parts most teams skip: listening deeply, engaging like a real community, celebrating every gift, and reporting back with honesty. When those four pieces are strong, asking becomes a natural next step instead of a nerve-wracking leap. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Building Donor Trust for Global Nonprofits | 20 Feb 2026 | 00:27:35 | |
Donor trust doesn’t travel on autopilot across borders—it’s earned through clarity, consistency, and care. We sit down with Morgan Gross, founder and CEO of Fundraising Beyond Borders, to unpack a practical playbook for U.S.-based fundraising that supports programs around the world, from first impressions on your website to the stewardship that keeps supporters engaged long after they give. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Build A Board People Actually Want To Join | 13 Feb 2026 | 00:28:29 | |
Ever wonder why some boards feel alive, focused, and productive while others stall out in meetings and rubber-stamp decisions? In this episode, we're joined by Debra Hertz, Managing Director at The Strategy Group, who unpacks a practical roadmap for turning any board into a true strategic asset—from first contact in recruitment to the cadence of training, evaluation, and culture-building that keeps trustees engaged for the long haul. As hosts, we press into the hard truths: vague expectations create passive members, “fundraise-only” mindsets repel great candidates, and friends-and-family boards can lock you into short-term thinking. The fix is a board experience people genuinely want to join. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Fundraising Across Generations: Unlocking the $84 Trillion Wealth Transfer | 06 Feb 2026 | 00:28:48 | |
A tidal shift in philanthropy is underway, and the clock is ticking. We sit down with fundraising strategist Sarah B. Lange to unpack the $84 trillion wealth transfer and lay out a practical roadmap for turning loyal supporters into legacy champions—without massive budgets or complex infrastructure. If you’ve wondered how to approach planned giving, engage entire families, or earn Gen Z’s trust, this conversation delivers clear steps you can use now. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Reimagining Nonprofit Growth: Mission, Money, and Meaningful Relationships | 30 Jan 2026 | 00:30:32 | |
Year-end left many teams drained and second-guessing their playbook. We brought in Jeff Schreifels, principal at Veritus Group, to reframe the path forward: treat staff, donors, volunteers, and the community as the mission—and rebuild fundraising around real relationships that last through channel swings and economic shifts. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Building Sustainable Nonprofits Through Better Leadership | 23 Jan 2026 | 00:28:46 | |
If you’ve ever tried to run a nonprofit on passion alone, you know where that road leads: long hours, reactive decisions, and donor updates that feel like fire drills. We sat down with Lauren Reilly, executive director of the Gratitude Network, to map a different path—one where nonprofit leaders claim the tools CEOs use and apply them to mission-driven work without losing soul. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Why Nonprofits Need Both a Strategic Plan and a Business Plan | 16 Jan 2026 | 00:30:30 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, host Meghan Speer is joined by Dr. Bill Flores—speaker, author, consultant, and former university president—for a timely conversation on leading nonprofits through turbulent times. Drawing from decades of hands-on nonprofit leadership, Dr. Flores challenges organizations to stop “driving blindfolded” and instead embrace strategic planning, business planning, and creative adaptation in the face of uncertainty. Together, they explore why so many nonprofits struggle without clear plans, how leaders can refocus on strengths and core supporters, and what it takes to build sustainable revenue beyond grants alone. This episode offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a clear call for nonprofit leaders to think differently, plan boldly, and invest in their own leadership development as they work to change the world. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Volunteers as Voices: Turning Your Community into Nonprofit Ambassadors | 09 Jan 2026 | 00:32:32 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, host Meghan Speer welcomes back fan-favorite guest Becca Segovia, CEO of GCS Partners, for a deep dive into the “V” of the G.I.V.E. Framework—Volunteer—as a powerful strategy for turning supporters into ambassadors. Together, they explore how nonprofits can activate volunteers, donors, and supporters to lend not just their time or dollars, but their voices, sharing authentic stories that drive awareness, engagement, and giving. Becca unpacks practical ways to equip communities with messaging tools, embrace generational differences in advocacy, responsibly release control of the narrative, and leverage data showing the real financial impact of social sharing. The conversation offers actionable insights for nonprofits looking to grow retention, acquisition, and community impact by empowering their people to tell the story. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| A New Outlook For The New Year: Escaping the Busy Trap | 02 Jan 2026 | 00:34:35 | |
As we kick off a new year, it’s time to reimagine what healthy, sustainable leadership can look like. In this refreshed conversation, author, consultant, and recovering fundraiser Kishshana Palmer joins Meghan Speer to explore why “busy” is the four-letter word holding so many nonprofit leaders back. Kishshana unpacks the personal wake-up call that led her to redefine success, why rest must be a non-negotiable, and how leaders can model wellbeing for their teams without losing credibility. From setting boundaries to choosing one meaningful wellness domino to tip the rest, this episode is an invitation to step out of the frantic pace and step into a year marked by clarity, capacity, and care—for yourself and your people. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| How to Set Your Website Up for Success in the New Year | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:28:26 | |
As the new year approaches, it’s the perfect time for nonprofits to take a hard look at their website and ensure it’s ready for the year ahead. In this refreshed conversation, Meghan sits down with Jay Owen, CEO of Business Builders, to unpack the most common website mistakes nonprofits make—and what to fix first. From clarifying your message to choosing the right primary audience, prioritizing design that builds trust, and understanding the data that actually matters, Jay offers clear, practical guidance to help nonprofits strengthen their digital presence. If you want your website to work harder for you in the new year, this episode is your roadmap to starting strong. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| From Stagnant To Strategic: Rebooting Nonprofit Boards | 19 Dec 2025 | 00:32:30 | |
Governance can propel a mission forward or quietly stall it, and the difference often comes down to clarity, courage, and the right people in the right roles. We sit down with strategist and former executive director Eddrick Martin to unpack how boards become true force multipliers instead of rubber-stamp committees. From aligning with your board chair to recruiting beyond your first-degree network, this conversation delivers a practical blueprint for nonprofit leaders ready to modernize their governance and build momentum. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| A Practical Approach to More Meaningful Nonprofit Giving | 12 Dec 2025 | 00:34:00 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, Nina Guise-Gerrity, founder and CEO of Get Gifted and longtime Loyola University professor, shares the story behind building an innovative platform designed to make giving more personal, efficient, and meaningful. What began as a simple challenge—wanting to send her niece blueberries from across the country—became a powerful solution for individuals and nonprofits alike. Nina walks through her transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the persistence required to build technology in an unfamiliar space, and how Get Gifted enables nonprofits to clearly communicate their real, day-to-day needs through customizable wish lists. The conversation highlights donor motivation, the importance of matching intention with execution, and how tangible, personalized giving creates deeper connection and impact for communities, donors, and nonprofit leaders alike. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Joyful Accountability For Real Impact | 05 Dec 2025 | 00:31:40 | |
In this episode, Pieta Blakely, Managing Principal at Rojas Blakely Associates, unpacks her concept of “joyful accountability”—a refreshing, motivating approach to program evaluation in the nonprofit sector. Drawing from her experience in workforce development and economic mobility, Pieta shares how she moved from the classroom into evaluation after seeing the need for clarity, data, and mission alignment. She explains how nonprofits can identify what truly matters to measure, avoid becoming overwhelmed by the scale of the issues they tackle, and stay energized by recognizing small wins along the way. The conversation explores building a practical theory of change, selecting meaningful metrics, navigating funder expectations, partnering effectively across organizations, and weaving together narrative and data to tell a fuller story of impact. It’s a thoughtful look at how evaluation—when done well—can inspire collaboration, focus, and celebration within mission-driven work. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| The Metrics That Matter Most for Giving Tuesday & Year-End Success | 28 Nov 2025 | 00:30:52 | |
As Giving Tuesday and the year-end fundraising season arrive, now is the time for nonprofits to double down on the metrics that truly drive growth. In this refreshed episode of the Nonprofit Hub Podcast, Meghan sits down with Carly Berna of Virtuous to unpack the most essential data points every fundraiser needs to understand before year-end appeals hit full speed. From donor retention and average gift size to recurring giving, acquisition costs, portfolio balance, and the brand-new “days to second gift” metric, Carly breaks down how these insights can shape smarter asks, stronger donor journeys, and more predictable revenue during the most generous season of the year. If you’re preparing for Giving Tuesday or mapping out your year-end strategy, this conversation will help you focus on the numbers that matter most. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| The Science Behind Major Gifts: A New Framework for Fundraising | 21 Nov 2025 | 00:34:03 | |
This episode explores a scientific and psychologically informed approach to major gift fundraising with Bill Crouch, CEO of BrightDot. Bill shares his journey from higher education leadership to developing a consultancy built around understanding emotional intelligence and the balance of left-brain and right-brain thinking in fundraising. He explains how successful major gift work requires both analytical structure and creative relational engagement, and how teams can better leverage these strengths—whether through tailored roles, environmental triggers, or deeper insight into donor motivations. The conversation highlights practical strategies, including how to think like a high-wealth donor, how to build teams that blend data and human connection, and why understanding a donor’s “heart” is essential to securing transformational gifts. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||
| Proving Your Impact: How Nonprofits Can Use Data to Tell a Better Story | 14 Nov 2025 | 00:30:56 | |
In this episode of the Nonprofit Hub Radio Podcast, host Meghan Speer sits down with Matthew Courtney, principal consultant at Courtney Consulting, to explore how nonprofits can use program evaluation to strengthen funding applications, prove impact, and improve programs. Drawing from his own experience as a former nonprofit founder, Matthew shares hard-earned lessons about the importance of collecting and analyzing data—beyond just counting participants—to tell a compelling story of real change. He offers practical tips for starting from scratch, making data collection automatic, and creating a culture of continuous improvement that funders trust. Whether you’re a small or startup nonprofit or a seasoned leader rethinking your evaluation strategy, this conversation will help you see data not as a burden, but as a powerful tool for sustainability and growth. Get free nonprofit professional development resources, connections to cause work peers, and more at https://nonprofithub.org | |||