Explore every episode of the podcast The NonProfit Nook
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The NonProfit Nook - Talking All Things Nonprofit | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:01:58 | |
The NonProfit Nook – Teaser Episode Show Notes Host: Wendy Kidd, Owner of Boss Level Engaged About the Podcast: Welcome to The NonProfit Nook, the go-to podcast for nonprofit leaders, board members, staff, and community champions who want to build stronger, smarter organizations and make a real impact. Hosted by Wendy Kidd, a business owner and nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience, this show is your resource for honest conversations and practical advice. What to Expect:
Who Should Listen:
Listen & Connect: Episodes available on your preferred podcast platform starting August 26th, 2025. Visit our website: www.thenonprofitnook.com Follow us on social: @thenonprofitnook Subscribe now and join our community of changemakers building better nonprofits, one episode at a time! | |||
| Creating a Feedback-Friendly Environment: Tools for Team Success and Retention | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:38:13 | |
In this episode of 'The NonProfit Nook,' host Wendy Kidd and guest Kendria Taylor, a learning and development expert, delve into the importance of creating a culture of feedback within nonprofit organizations. They discuss the definition and the significance of providing various types of feedback: reinforcing, redirecting, impact, and reflective. Kendria shares practical models such as the 'GOOD' model for effective feedback and provides strategies for personalizing feedback based on communication styles. The episode emphasizes that consistent, thoughtful feedback can build trust, enhance morale, and boost organizational performance. Kendria also offers listeners free tools to improve their feedback approaches, making this episode an invaluable resource for nonprofit leaders aiming to strengthen their teams and retain top talent. Links: https://www.instagram.com/thekendriataylor/ https://www.instagram.com/tg8solutionsinsight/ https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged 00:00 Introduction to Active Listening 00:23 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook 01:09 Meet Kendria Taylor 02:45 The Importance of Feedback 09:21 Types of Feedback 13:40 Developing Your Team with Feedback 19:14 The Importance of Ongoing Feedback 19:49 Creating a Culture of Feedback 20:25 Introducing the Good Model 21:54 Breaking Down the Good Model 24:21 Giving Feedback to Leaders 27:34 Understanding Communication Styles 30:31 Reflective and Empathetic Listening 33:16 Free Resources and Conclusion Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Building Bridges in the Community: Kim Sanchez's Mission with Collin County NeighborHUB at McKinney and McKinney Little Free Pantry | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:26:44 | |
Spotlight on Community Champions: Kim Sanchez and the Impact of McKinney Little Free Pantry and Collin County NeighborHUB In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd welcomes Kim Sanchez, a philanthropist and founder of McKinney Little Free Pantry and Collin County NeighborHUB. Kim shares her journey from starting her businesses in 2005 to creating impactful community initiatives that aim to serve neighbors in need. Learn about the inspiration behind these projects, the challenges they face, and the unique solutions they offer, such as the anonymous food pantries and a future social services advocacy center. This episode delves into the importance of dignity and human interaction in social services, and highlights how Kim blends professional expertise with a passion for service to create real change in Collin County. Links: https://www.ccneighborhubmck.org/ https://www.instagram.com/mckinneylittlefreepantry/ https://www.facebook.com/CCNeighborHub https://thesanchezgroup.biz/sanchez-charities-llc/ https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged 00:00 Introduction to The NonProfit Nook 01:02 Meet Kim Sanchez: A Multifaceted Philanthropist 02:23 The Birth of McKinney Little Free Pantry 04:36 Expanding the Pantry Network 06:38 The Concept of Collin County NeighborHUB 13:19 Building the NeighborHUB: Partnerships and Progress 17:55 Challenges and Rewards in Nonprofit Work 22:18 How to Get Involved 23:37 Conclusion and Farewell Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| The Power of Personalized Donor Relationships with Manuel Mesa | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:25:00 | |
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd speaks with Manuel Mesa, a seasoned nonprofit strategist and current president of the Dallas Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). Manuel shares his extensive experience in fundraising, the importance of building genuine relationships with donors, and details about AFP’s resources and membership. He discusses the Donor Bill of Rights and provides valuable insights into donor-centric communication. Manuel also shares touching personal stories, illustrating the deep connections he has made with donors and how these relationships have led to significant contributions. The episode concludes with practical advice on how nonprofits can enhance their fundraising strategies and a call to get involved with AFP for further support and networking opportunities. Important Links: www.thephilanthropyblueprint.com www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-m-11063276 https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged 00:00 A Personal Story: The Final Resting Place 00:17 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook 01:03 Introducing Manuel Mesa: Nonprofit Strategist 02:08 The Role of AFP in Fundraising 05:55 The Donor Bill of Rights 10:32 Building Donor Relationships: A Success Story 16:54 Key Takeaways for Nonprofits 19:31 Getting Involved with AFP 21:20 Conclusion and Farewell Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Spotlight: Communities Foundation of Texas & North Texas Giving Day | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:29:13 | |
Maximizing Impact: Inside the Communities Foundation of Texas and North Texas Giving Day In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd converses with Heather Lothes, Donor Relations Officer at the Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT). The discussion focuses on the role and impact of CFT in North Texas, emphasizing its efforts to support local nonprofits and philanthropic activities. They delve into the details of North Texas Giving Day, a significant regional initiative designed to boost donations and awareness for local nonprofits. Heather shares insights on how nonprofits can maximize their success on this day and the ongoing support CFT provides throughout the year. Listeners are encouraged to participate and spread the word to enhance community support and philanthropy. Links: CFT Website: https://www.cftexas.org/ North Texas Giving Day website: https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/ Social Handles - CFT: communitiesfoundationoftexas, NTGD: northtexasgivingday https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged 00:00 Introduction to Community Foundations 00:58 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook 01:42 Meet Heather Lothes 02:43 Understanding Communities Foundation of Texas 05:18 North Texas Giving Day: Origins and Impact 08:03 Maximizing North Texas Giving Day 11:44 Upcoming Events and How to Get Involved 14:05 The Broader Impact of North Texas Giving Day 15:22 Riding the Wave of North Texas Giving Day 16:34 Maximizing Success on Giving Day 17:41 Leveraging Your Network and Resources 19:38 The Power of Follow-Up 22:29 Beyond North Texas Giving Day: CFT's Year-Round Impact 22:40 CFT's Multifaceted Support for Nonprofits 25:28 CFT's Role in Community Crises 25:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Initiating Change: Strategic Planning for Nonprofits with Expert Dr. Collette Portis, Episode 1 of 3 | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:43:44 | |
Today's episode features Dr. Collette Portis, an award-winning business strategist, who joins Wendy to discuss the fundamentals of strategic planning in the nonprofit sector. They cover the importance of not trying to handle everything in-house, the roles and responsibilities of key participants, the necessity of hiring an outside expert, and essential preparatory steps before the first strategic planning meeting. This episode is the first of a three-part series on strategic planning, focusing on actionable steps and effective implementation. Links: https://linktr.ee/reddevelopmentgroup https://amzn.to/42h8UiE - JUST Strategy By Dr. Collette Portis https://amzn.to/4ntu1a9 - G.O.A.L.I.E. By Dr. Collette Portis https://amzn.to/3ImXHXd - CEOs Finish Strong: Learn What’s Weakening Your Company by Dr. Collette Portis SBDC - https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/small-business-development-centers-sbdc Junior League of Collin County - https://www.jlcollincounty.org/community/meeting-facilitation-services/ https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ 00:00 Introduction to Strategic Planning 00:35 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook 01:20 Introducing Dr. Collette Portis 02:11 The Importance of Strategic Planning 02:47 Defining Strategic Planning 03:54 The Role of Strategy in Nonprofits 07:40 Who Should Be Involved in Strategic Planning? 07:58 The Role of External Consultants 09:10 Engaging Different Levels of Leadership 13:28 Involving the Board in Strategic Planning 15:09 Strategic Planning for Small Nonprofits 16:19 Finding the Right Consultant 18:15 Funding Your Strategic Planning 19:13 Alternative Funding Sources 21:09 Utilizing Local Resources 21:48 Exploring Free and Paid Resources for Nonprofits 23:09 Preparing for the First Meeting with Consultants 24:24 Conducting Initial Assessments and Consultations 29:25 DIY Assessments for Nonprofits 31:42 Key Elements to Assess in Nonprofits 36:59 The Importance of Technology and Disaster Recovery 39:14 Conclusion and Next Steps Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Spotlight on Grace to Change: Transforming Lives Through Recovery | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:25:52 | |
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd talks with Shannon White, Founder and Executive Director, and Kim Hughes, Administrative Director of Grace to Change, a nonprofit outpatient treatment center in Collin County. Shannon and Kim share their inspiring personal stories and discuss the vital work their organization does to support individuals struggling with addiction. They highlight the services provided, such as intensive and supportive outpatient programs, free lifelong aftercare, substance abuse evaluations, and individual and family counseling. The conversation also touches on the challenges of running a nonprofit, the importance of community support, and ways for people to get involved, including meal donations, drives, and attending their annual gala. Links: https://www.facebook.com/gracetochangemckinney https://www.instagram.com/gracetochangemckinney/ https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:23 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook 01:11 Meet Shannon White: Founder of Grace to Change 02:10 Meet Kim Hughes: Administrative Director of Grace to Change 03:29 The Journey and Mission of Grace to Change 04:41 Challenges and Success Stories 05:29 Services Offered by Grace to Change 06:12 Personal Stories of Impact 10:08 Community Involvement and Support 15:56 Understanding Addiction and Nonprofits 19:24 How to Get Involved and Support Grace to Change 22:38 Closing Remarks and Contact Information 23:09 Podcast Outro Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Decoding Nonprofit Finances: Hiring a Bookkeeper, Collaborating and Key Metrics | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:33:24 | |
Navigating Bookkeeping for Nonprofits: Tips, Tools, and Best Practices In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd is joined by Kelsey Gleason, co-owner of Educated Bookkeeping, to explore the distinct challenges and strategies of bookkeeping for nonprofits versus for-profit businesses. They discuss the importance of understanding financial reports, customizing chart of accounts, and the significance of training and quality control for volunteer bookkeepers. They also cover practical tips on selecting a professional bookkeeper, using QuickBooks features like classes and projects, and highlight a crucial financial metric every nonprofit board should monitor. The episode aims to provide real tools and strategies to help nonprofit leaders and boards manage their finances more effectively. Links: https://www.educatedbookkeeping.com https://www.instagram.com/educatedbookkeeping/ https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ 00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Bookkeeping 01:28 Meet Kelsey Gleason: From Teacher to Bookkeeper 02:05 Challenges of Nonprofit Bookkeeping 05:03 Advice for Small Nonprofits Without a Bookkeeper 05:49 Training and Software Recommendations 10:27 Hiring a Professional Bookkeeper 18:59 Understanding Financial Reports 22:08 QuickBooks Tips and Tricks 26:33 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways 30:37 Conclusion and Farewell Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Service, Community, and Connection: Inside the McKinney Rotary Club | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:20:18 | |
Spotlight on McKinney Rotary Club: Service, Community, and Leadership In this episode of 'The NonProfit Nook,' host Wendy Kidd interviews Stephanie Talley, the 2025-2026 President of the Rotary Club of McKinney. Stephanie shares her experiences and the impactful work of the Rotary Club, highlighting their community service projects, international aid, and commitment to diversity and growth. The discussion covers the Rotary Club's history, successful projects like the Bonnie Wenk Park All Abilities Playground and Direction 61:3 partnership, and ways people can get involved. Listeners will gain insights into the vital role of Rotary in community service and learn practical strategies to enhance nonprofit work. Links: https://www.mckinneyrotary.org/ @mckinneyrotary on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged 00:00 Flash Mob Presidential Kickoff 00:29 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook 01:16 Introducing Stephanie Talley 02:45 The McKinney Rotary Club: History and Impact 04:31 Stephanie's Journey to Rotary 05:51 Rotary's Community Involvement 07:28 Success Stories and Achievements 13:12 The Importance of Nonprofits 14:00 How to Get Involved with Rotary 16:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Beyond the Overwhelm: Simplifying Strategies for Nonprofit Marketing with Tayler Cusick Hollman | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:42:18 | |
In this episode, host Wendy is joined by Tayler Cusick Hollman, a marketing consultant and founder of Enji, a user-friendly marketing tool designed for small businesses and nonprofits. Tayler shares her decade-long experience in helping small businesses and nonprofits, diving into the unique marketing challenges nonprofits face. The conversation covers the importance of marketing for nonprofits, debunking myths about marketing, and how to shift mindsets to be more confident in marketing efforts. Tayler provides actionable steps to reduce overwhelm, including setting content pillars, choosing appropriate marketing channels, and maintaining consistency. They discuss the role of Enji in simplifying marketing tasks through planning, content creation, and analytics. Listeners are encouraged to try Enji with a special discount code provided, NPNook, which gives $61 off the annual subscription. https://www.enji.co/?ref=zmi2ngv https://www.instagram.com/enji_co/ https://www.facebook.com/enjimarketing/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/enji https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Spotlight on Young Minds, Big Impact: Inside the Letters of Light Foundation | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:23:50 | |
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd interviews Ananya Nagendra, the young founder and CEO of the Letters of Light Foundation. Inspired by her mother's journey with chemotherapy, Ananya started the organization to provide cancer patients with handwritten letters of encouragement, preventive health workshops, and resources on mental wellness. With chapters across various schools and over 850 youth volunteers, the foundation partners with oncology centers to support cancer patients both mentally and emotionally. Ananya details the foundation's operations, her involvement with social workers, and the importance of mental health in cancer care. She also discusses the newly launched Books of Light program, offering literary resources to newly diagnosed patients and oncology centers. Learn how you can get involved, start a chapter, or contribute to this impactful cause. 00:00 Introduction to The NonProfit Nook 00:48 Meet Ananya Nagendra: Founder of Letters of Light 02:15 The Impact and Growth of Letters of Light 04:25 Volunteer Engagement and Success Stories 13:17 Books of Light Program 16:20 How to Get Involved and Final Thoughts 20:38 Conclusion and Call to Action Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ananya-nagendra https://www.instagram.com/joinlettersoflight/ https://hcb.hackclub.com/donations/start/letters-of-light - Donation Link https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| From Plan to Action: Implementing Your Nonprofit's Strategic Vision | 14 Oct 2025 | 00:27:03 | |
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, hosted by Wendy Kidd, Dr. Colette Portis dives deep into the intricacies of strategic planning for nonprofits. They discuss how a robust strategy can lead to remarkable results, such as a nonprofit quadrupling its budget in a single quarter. The conversation covers the typical time frame for strategic planning, methods for accelerated planning, and the essential steps for effective implementation. Dr. Portis shares valuable insights on accountability, time management using brain science, and the importance of communication with internal and external teams. The episode is packed with practical advice and resources to help nonprofit leaders navigate their strategic planning and achieve their organizational goals. 00:00 Success Story: Nonprofit's Million-Dollar Strategy 00:25 Introduction to The NonProfit Nook 01:09 Strategic Planning Recap 02:27 Accelerated Strategic Planning with Red Development Group 02:58 Three-Day Business Strategy Retreat 04:50 Time Management and Brain Science 11:49 Implementing Your Strategic Plan 12:48 Aligning Meetings with Strategy 13:03 Maintaining Momentum and Celebrating Successes 13:48 The Importance of Weekly Tracking 14:26 Adapting to Change: A Real-Life Example 15:45 Communicating Your Plan Internally and Externally 16:44 Implementation and Regular Check-ins 18:06 Strategic Planning for Nonprofits 20:50 Success Stories and Final Thoughts 23:57 Conclusion and Call to Action Links: 3 day Strategic Planning with Red Development Group https://linktr.ee/reddevelopmentgroup https://amzn.to/42h8UiE - JUST Strategy By Dr. Collette Portis https://amzn.to/4ntu1a9 - G.O.A.L.I.E. By Dr. Collette Portis https://amzn.to/3ImXHXd - CEOs Finish Strong: Learn What’s Weakening Your Company by Dr. Collette Portis SBDC - https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/small-business-development-centers-sbdc Junior League of Collin County - https://www.jlcollincounty.org/community/meeting-facilitation-services/ https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Essential Elements of a Successful Nonprofit Strategy with Expert Dr. Collette Portis | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:56:11 | |
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd and guest Dr. Colette Portis from the Red Development Group continue their strategic planning series. They discuss the often-overlooked aspect of team development and delve into the essential elements of effective strategic planning for nonprofits. The conversation covers the importance of revisiting mission and vision statements and setting measurable goals. Dr. Portis outlines the 15 crucial plans that comprise a comprehensive strategic plan, including goals, financial planning, and community engagement. This episode is packed with actionable insights designed to help nonprofit leaders develop robust strategies that align with their organizational missions and values. Links: https://linktr.ee/reddevelopmentgroup https://amzn.to/42h8UiE - JUST Strategy By Dr. Collette Portis https://amzn.to/4ntu1a9 - G.O.A.L.I.E. By Dr. Collette Portis https://amzn.to/3ImXHXd - CEOs Finish Strong: Learn What’s Weakening Your Company by Dr. Collette Portis SBDC - https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/small-business-development-centers-sbdc Junior League of Collin County - https://www.jlcollincounty.org/community/meeting-facilitation-services/ https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ 00:00 Introduction to NonProfit Nook 01:14 Welcome and Guest Introduction 01:39 Strategic Planning Overview 02:11 Importance of External Support 03:21 Revisiting Mission and Vision 05:38 Assessment and Goal Setting 08:29 Identifying Blind Spots 08:46 Financial Literacy in Nonprofits 11:19 Resource Allocation and Team Development 26:42 Personal and Team Development Plans 30:37 Staying Organized with Priorities 30:58 Aligning Values with Your Calendar 31:13 Strategizing for Life and Work 32:04 Community Engagement and Impact 33:46 Event Planning and Execution 37:01 Social Media and Branding 39:19 Marketing and Sales Strategies 43:56 Technology and Succession Planning 52:51 Final Thoughts and Next Step Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Dancing with Dallas Flashers: A Nonprofit Bringing Joy and Community Through Flash Mobs | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:44:12 | |
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd interviews Niki and Bob Calabrese, the Executive Director and Tech Director of Dallas Flashers, respectively. The Dallas Flashers is a nonprofit organization that organizes flash mobs to bring joy and mental health benefits to its participants and audiences. Niki shares insights on the diverse group of individuals involved in the flash mobs and how the organization unexpectedly ventured into the mental health sector. Bob discusses his technical role in the organization. The podcast also delves into the success stories of participants, the importance of community involvement, and the various non-dancing roles that help support the flash mobs. The episode concludes with a call for more support and volunteers to help the Dallas Flashers continue their mission of spreading joy through dance. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dallas-flashers-2a0a41382/ https://www.instagram.com/dallas.flashers/ https://www.facebook.com/DallasFlashersFans https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ 00:00 Introduction to the NonProfit Nook 01:40 Meet Nikki Calabrese: A Lifetime of Service 02:57 Introducing Bob Calabrese: The Musical Tech Director 04:37 The Birth of Dallas Flashers 06:07 Flash Mob 101: What and How 11:52 Leadership and Vision: The Dream Session 19:00 Who Should Join Dallas Flashers? 22:05 The Joy of Flash Mobs 22:28 Mental Health Benefits 25:39 Success Stories 29:16 Personal Growth and Challenges 31:00 Favorite Aspects of the Group 35:49 Support and Participation 38:18 How to Get Involved 40:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Mentioned in this episode: | |||
| Beyond the Clock: Time Management for Nonprofit Leaders | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:16:11 | |
This episode of The NonProfit Nook, hosted by Wendy Kidd, focuses on the importance of time management for nonprofit leaders. Wendy discusses how time management isn't about control, but about creating the freedom to focus on what matters, rest without guilt, and lead with clarity and purpose. She provides practical tips, such as tracking how time is spent, setting clear priorities, using time blocking, and building habits around these new routines. Wendy also addresses potential resistance to change and the importance of clear communication. The episode emphasizes that good time management is about doing what matters most and maintaining a healthy, well-balanced life to effectively lead a nonprofit organization. Links: https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/ Time Management from the Inside Out by Julie Morgenstern 00:00 Introduction to Time Management 00:20 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook 01:06 Wendy's Personal Insights on Time Management 02:01 The Reality of Non-Profit Leadership 03:14 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care 03:42 Tracking and Analyzing Your Time 05:54 Establishing Priorities and Saying No 07:23 Time Blocking for Effective Management 09:29 Adapting to Change and Communicating Boundaries 11:04 Recommended Reads for Time Management 12:33 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 13:07 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Mentioned in this episode: | |||