Too many organizations struggle to prove the good they’re doing in a way that inspires donors, partners, investors, and communities to take action. Join Lauren and John Mark Vanderpool as they share how you can measure and market your impact to create more meaningful change today.
Each episode delivers practical strategies, expert insights, and inspiring stories to help you overcome these hurdles, raise more funding, and amplify your mission.
Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, heading up a CSR initiative, or simply passionate about making the world a better place, the Social Impact Solutions Podcast is your go-to resource for actionable advice on measuring and marketing your impact.
Tune in, take notes, and let’s create a world where your work speaks for itself.
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[Ask Me Anything] Building a Strategic Plan That Drives Impact
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 • Duration 16:31
On this episode of the Social Impact Solutions Podcast, Co-founders John Mark Vanderpool and Lauren Vanderpool introduce a brand new podcast segment - Ask Me Anything (AMA), where you get your questions answered. In this first AMA, they respond to thoughtful questions from their recent strategic planning webinar, offering practical guidance you can apply right away. You'll hear how to create a simple, flexible strategic plan your team can confidently put into action, why impact measurement grounded in a clear theory of change belongs at the heart of that plan, and how leadership involvement strengthens your impact strategy. If you're ready to lead with clarity and grow your organization's impact, this conversation is one you won't want to miss!
Episode Resources:
- Take the FREE nonprofit fundraising quiz! https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/
Episode Chapters
-00:00 Introduction to webinar recap and key topics
-02:24 Why concentrated funder strategies lead to growth
-04:52 Funders channels and organizational size
-07:03 Leadership involvement in impact strategy
-09:08 The value of a flexible, actionable strategic plan
-11:29 Simplifying strategic plans for better implementation
-13:49 Impact measurement as a foundation for organizational growth
-15:15 The core purpose of nonprofits is creating impact
-15:39 Impact measurement as essential for scaling and success
-16:07 Closing remarks and future podcast plans
Why Donor Retention Starts With Donor Experience at WeGive
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 • Duration 55:23
On this episode of the Social Impact Solutions Podcast, Jonathan Beck, CEO of We Give, joins Co-Founder John Mark Vanderpool to break down what actually moves the needle when nonprofits invest in technology.
Jonathan explains why donor experience has become the new frontier of fundraising, how impact portals turn one-time gifts into lasting relationships, and what it really costs an organization when data lives across five disconnected tools. Together they unpack the metrics worth tracking, the case for bi-directional data sync and automation, and why consistent inputs compound into exponential growth over time.
Whether you're a small shop running on spreadsheets or a growing organization ready to scale, this conversation offers a practical path toward aligning programs, fundraising, and impact goals.
Episode Resources:
- Connect with WeGive today and discover how they can partner to transform donor retention: https://www.wegive.com/
- Take the FREE nonprofit fundraising quiz today: https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/
Episode Chapters
-00:00 Introduction to Jonathan Beck and We Give
-03:59 The Role of Impact Portals in Donor Experience
-07:56 The Importance of Integrated Systems
-11:59 Data Silos and Fragmented Tools
-16:02 Metrics, KPIs, and the Impact of Data
-19:58 Impact Data and Cost-Effectiveness in Fundraising
-24:04 The Leverage of Technology in Nonprofit Growth
-27:58 Communication Preferences and Multi-Channel Engagement
-32:00 Bi-Directional Data Sync and Automation
-35:56 Efficiency and Effort in Fundraising
-37:56 The Bell Curve of Donor Giving and Impact
-39:58 The Role of Technology in Scaling Impact
-41:59 Different Organizational Buckets and Tech Needs
-43:57 Change Management and Data Integration Challenges
-46:10 The Value of Visibility and Insight
-47:58 Starting with Where You Are and Planning Forward
-50:03 The Power of Consistent Inputs and Exponential Growth
-52:03 The Importance of Impact and Program Data
-53:59 Aligning Programs, Fundraising, and Impact Goals
What Mentorship Teaches Us About Belonging, Data, and Impact with Big Brothers Big Sisters
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 • Duration 42:42
On This Episode of the Social Impact Solutions podcast, Ginneh Baugh, Chief Impact Officer at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America sits down with co-founder Lauren Vanderpool to share how nonprofits can measure what matters without overcomplicating the process. She breaks down a practical approach to impact evaluation, showing how mentorship, belonging, and clear outcomes can be tracked and communicated in a way that actually helps teams grow their mission.
If you lead a nonprofit or work in social impact, this conversation offers a concise roadmap for defining success, using data with purpose, and scaling programs with confidence. From stronger storytelling to smarter evaluation, you’ll walk away with actionable insights on how to demonstrate real value to funders, partners, and the communities you serve.
Episode Resources:
- Visit the Big Brothers Big Sisters Webpage to learn more and get involved! https://www.bbbs.org/
- Take the FREE nonprofit fundraising quiz: https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/
Episode Chapters
-00:00 Introduction to Ginneh Baugh and her role at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
-02:15 The importance of impact measurement and defining impact
-04:36 Overview of Big Brothers Big Sisters and the role of mentorship
-08:01 Why social connection and mentorship are critical now
-12:32 Quantifying the need and measuring impact in mentorship programs
-16:54 Using data and validated tools for impact assessment
-20:14 Impact on stakeholders and communicating results
-26:56 Theory of Change process and organizational strategy
-31:31 Revisiting and updating impact measurement and theory of change
-36:36 Scaling mentorship and expanding social impact
The Library Network Turning Mission Into Momentum
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 • Duration 35:43
In this episode of the Social Impact Solutions Podcast, Co-Founder John Mark Vanderpool sits down with Jonna Ward to highlight the incredible collaborative work being done with clients of Social Impact Solutions. This series shines a light on the organizations and leaders Social Impact Solutions has worked alongside, offering listeners a behind the scenes glimpse into the mission-driven partnerships helping strengthen communities.
In this conversation, Jonna shares the mission and impact of the Library Support Network, an organization dedicated to supporting public libraries through fundraising, peer connection, and sector-wide collaboration. She explores why public libraries matter so deeply, the challenges they face, and how fundraising and community support can transform the role libraries play in society.
If you’re interested in nonprofit strategy, public library advocacy, or the power of mission driven partnerships, this episode offers an inspiring look at how collective support can make a lasting difference.
Episode Resources:
- Take the FREE Non-profit Fundraising Quiz Today! https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/
Episode Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction to the Library Support Network
- 02:06 Jonna Ward's background and the founding of the Network
- 05:09 The importance of public libraries in trust and community
- 07:57 Challenges faced by library foundations and how to address them
- 11:59 Building a networked organization for impact
- 15:58 Fundraising strategies and diversifying revenue
- 20:00 The role of libraries in lifelong learning and social connection
- 24:05 Impact measurement and benchmarking in library support
- 27:57 The future of public libraries and community support
The Future of Fundraising: How AI Is Transforming Nonprofits with Virtuous
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 • Duration 33:18
In this episode of The Social Impact Solutions Podcast, we explore the transformative role of AI in nonprofit fundraising with Carly Berna from Virtuous. Join us as we delve into how AI is reshaping the landscape of fundraising by addressing common pain points for nonprofits, enhancing donor engagement, and revolutionizing data management. Carly shares her insights on the importance of technology adoption, the responsive fundraising model, and the need for change management in nonprofit organizations. Discover how AI-driven tools can empower fundraisers, streamline processes, and ultimately foster greater generosity in our communities. Tune in to understand the future of fundraising and how your organization can leverage these innovations to create meaningful impact.
Episode Resources:
Check out Virtuous: https://virtuous.org/
Take a FREE fundraising quiz: https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/
Episode Chapters:
- 00:00 Introduction to Carly Barnett and Virtuous
- 01:03 The importance of technology in nonprofit fundraising
- 02:00 Lessons from a nonprofit leader's tech transformation
- 03:23 Change management and AI in nonprofits
- 04:20 Virtuous' evolution and investment in technology
- 06:01 Key features of Virtuous platform and integrations
- 07:28 Using AI to create personalized fundraising pages
- 08:53 Virtuous' mission to grow generosity through tech
- 09:36 Saving time with Momentum and AI tools
- 11:01 The human element in data-driven fundraising
- 12:36 The future of AI and fundraising in three years
- 13:35 Prompting and natural language interfaces for data access
- 15:13 Behavioral data and responsive fundraising
- 16:39 Engaging donors through behavioral insights
- 17:24 Who benefits most from Virtuous?
- 18:40 Organizations ready for digital transformation
- 20:37 Cultural impact of tech change in nonprofits
- 21:07 The role of data and process optimization
- 22:34 Governance, security, and ethical AI use
- 26:06 The future of headless CRM and AI prompts
- 28:06 Personalized, micro-targeted fundraising strategies
- 29:14 Empowering fundraisers with technology
- 30:20 The importance of secure, compliant data systems
- 32:14 The evolution toward precision philanthropy
- 33:00 Closing remarks and future outlook
Building Sustainable Capacity: How Venture 1:9 Helps Nonprofits Grow with Dr. Jonathan Roe
Tuesday, July 14, 2026 • Duration 41:56
In this episode of the Social Impact Solutions Podcast, Dr. Jonathan Roe shares practical insights from his journey in church nonprofit leadership, focusing on sustainable growth, effective fundraising, and capacity building through Venture 1:9. Learn how microgrants, intentional fundraising, and strong leadership can help nonprofit organizations create greater impact with clarity and confidence.
Episode Resources:
- Explore Venture 19 Free Trainings: Venture19.org
- Take a FREE fundraising quiz from Social Impact Solutions: https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/
Episode Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jonathan Roe and Venture One Nine
- 01:59 Dr. Roe's background in faith-based nonprofits and leadership journey
- 03:59 The importance of lean operations and resource stewardship
- 06:06 How Venture One Nine supports nonprofits through free training and grants
- 07:58 Focus areas: fundraising, leadership, and strategic planning
- 10:13 Microgrants program: structure, impact, and success stories
- 13:08 Common challenges faced by nonprofits: leadership, strategy, funding
- 15:03 The importance of leadership health and sustainability
- 16:50 The power of messaging and explaining your organization’s purpose
- 18:50 The microgrant challenge: raising funds and building momentum
- 21:57 Results and impact: return on microgrants and fundraising growth
- 25:00 Shifting mindsets around fundraising and generosity
- 27:00 The role of accountability, peer learning, and cohort support
- 29:02 Building relationships with donors and supporters
- 30:56 Final thoughts: collaboration, impact, and ongoing growth
Bridging the Impact Gap: How Nonprofits Can Measure and Communicate for Growth
Tuesday, June 30, 2026 • Duration 31:03
After a brief summer solstice break, The Social Impact Solutions Podcast is coming back with a conversation every nonprofit leader needs to hear.
In this episode, Co-Founders John Mark and Lauren Vanderpool discuss why impact measurement matters so much for nonprofits, how to bridge the impact gap with funders, and the strategies that help you communicate your results more effectively so you can raise more funds and scale your programs.
If your organization wants to turn impact into a stronger fundraising story, this episode will give you practical ideas for making your data more meaningful, more visible, and more compelling to the people who support your mission.
Episode Resources:
- Take a FREE Fundraising Quiz: https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/questions
- Book a Free Call: https://www.socialimpactsolutions.com
Episode Chapters
- 00:00 The Importance of Impact Measurement
- 05:05 Understanding the Impact Gap
- 10:26 Bridging the Impact Gap
- 14:19 Steps to Measure and Communicate Impact
- 21:45 Inviting Funders into the Story
- 24:35 Securing Long-Term Engagement
Maximizing Nonprofit Growth: Communicating Impact to Ideal Funders
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 • Duration 26:14
In this episode of the Social Impact Solutions Podcast, Co-Founders John Mark and Lauren Vanderpool reveal why impact measurement and communication are the secret weapons for scaling your social change efforts. Real data and proven strategies show how clarity on who your ideal funders are can unlock exponential growth.
This episode is perfect for nonprofit leaders who want to move beyond just “doing good” and start communicating impact that attracts the right funders, building sustainable, scalable growth. If you’re tired of spreading yourself thin, overwhelmed by channel noise, or simply want a proven approach to raise more funds, this episode is your jumpstart to smarter impact fundraising.
Episode Resources:
- Book a Free Call With Us: https://www.socialimpactsolutions.com/
- Explore Our Course: https://social-impact-solutions.mykajabi.com/
Episode Chapters
- 00:00 The Importance of Measuring Social Impact
- 03:27 Communicating Impact Effectively
- 06:08 Navigating Fundraising Channels
- 09:07 Avoiding Indigestion in Nonprofit Strategies
- 12:51 Identifying Your Ideal Funder Type
- 15:35 Concentration vs. Diversification in Funding
- 18:21 Strategies for Sustainable Growth
- 21:15 Final Thoughts on Impact Communication
The Power of Relationship-Based Impact Measurement With Sonja Schappert-Howden
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 • Duration 36:32
On this episode of the Social Impact Solutions Podcast, Lauren Vanderpool and Sonja Schappert-Howden dive deep into the art of measuring impact in relationship-driven nonprofit work. Discover how theories of change can be adapted to capture the nuanced, transformative power of relational and faith-based approaches. This episode uncovers practical strategies to overcome the challenges of evaluating relational impact and hear inspiring examples of organizations that have successfully navigated this complex landscape. This conversation is a must listen for anyone looking to foster meaningful change through the power of relationships in their nonprofit work.
Episode Resources:
https://www.seedimpact.org/
https://www.socialimpactsolutions.com/
Episode Chapters:
- 00:00 Introduction and Background
- 07:21 Challenges in Relationship-Based Programs
- 13:14 Relational Cultural Theory and Transformation
- 18:28 Impact Measurement and Transformation Relationships
- 24:21 Navigating Stakeholder Engagement
- 30:01 Successful Implementation Examples
- 33:38 First Steps for Nonprofit Leaders
Meet The Team Series: Reimagining Social Impact with Shanila Praveen
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 • Duration 27:23
Tune into the Social Impact Solutions podcast's "Meet the Team" series to meet Shanila Parveen, a Social Impact Strategist. Explore Shanila's inspiring journey in the social impact sector, her transformative work in Pakistan's remote communities, and her expertise in impact measurement and program evaluation. You'll discover valuable insights and practical strategies for nonprofit success from the perspective of a non-profit leader and strategist, highlighting the importance of contextually relevant impact metrics.
Episode Resources
Book a Free Call with Social Impact Solutions: www.socialimpactsolutions.com
Episode Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction to Shanila Parveen and Her Role
- 03:30 Shanila's Journey in Social Impact
- 07:13 The Importance of Contextual Knowledge in Social Impact
- 10:30 Joining Social Impact Solutions
- 12:33 Understanding Impact Measurement
- 15:24 Key Insights on Nonprofit Impact Measurement
- 17:55 Favorite Aspects of Impact Measurement
- 19:49 Tools and Approaches in Social Impact Work
- 22:41 Future of Social Impact and Nonprofit Sector
- 24:42 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Insights
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