Nonprofit Radio Show

Professional associations can be a real lifeline for nonprofits. They connect us with others doing similar work, help us stay on top of what matters, and give our missions a stronger voice. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah chat about what makes a professional association truly helpful—and how to tell if the one you’re part of is working for you. They share simple ways associations can offer support, inspiration, and practical tools...

Nonprofit finances feeling uncertain? You’re not alone. In this episode, we shine a light on one financial report that every small nonprofit should be using right now: the cash flow statement.

Join Nancy and Sarah as they unpack why understanding your organization’s cash flow matters more than ever, especially in today’s turbulent funding environment. They’ll walk you through a simple, no-fuss way to build your own cash flow chart, ...

Ever see the video “Everyone deserves a slice?” It asks the question: What is pizza shops were funded like human services nonprofits? It makes the case that we would never expect a pizza shop to operate at partial cost or with the kinds of restrictions we deal with regularly. 

In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk about how to cover the full cost of doing the work we do so we can better achieve our mission without the panic of never...

Evaluation is a journey of discovery. It invites us to be curious, a chance to learn, grow, and make our work even stronger. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk about how evaluation can help our nonprofits ask the right questions, invite our communities into discovering the answers, and uncover meaningful insights—without getting buried in data. They share simple, doable ways to move beyond surveys as the only way to collect info...

Giving doesn’t always come in the form of a check. Sometimes it comes in a bushel of wheat! In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore the many ways people support the missions they care about—from volunteering and recurring gifts to donor-advised funds, stock donations, and more. Understanding how people give helps you get ready to receive that generosity with confidence and care. Join us as we share insights and practical tips to h...

Succession planning isn’t just about replacing a leader—it’s about sustaining an organization’s mission through change. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk about why every nonprofit should have a plan for the transition of staff and board leaders, including both expected or unexpected changes. From practical steps to mindset shifts, we explore how to approach succession planning in a way that strengthens your organization. Join u...

We have entered turbulent times for nonprofits. A strong board can be the steady hand that keeps a nonprofit on course. It can offer clarity and connection when things feel uncertain. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah dive into how boards can stay mission-focused, support their organizations, and strengthen community ties during these challenging times. While uncertainty is challenging, it can also be a powerful opportunity to cente...

Nonprofits are continuing to face existential challenges. How do we continue to achieve our mission through changes in administrations and shifts in funding? Stress testing helps nonprofits respond to risk and stay resilient by asking “What if?” questions that identify potential challenges before they become crises. 

Stress testing is not about predicting the future. It's about inviting your staff, board, and volunteers into co...

Being an ambassador for your nonprofit is like sparking a campfire—it takes a little effort, but the impact can spread far and wide. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah share fun, practical ways to help your board feel confident sharing your mission. With activities like speed dating, conversation challenges, and outreach, your board can become a team of passionate ambassadors, inspiring others to join your cause. Tune in to learn how...

As this year comes to a close, you might be reflecting on the year... on your successes and lessons learned. In this episode of the Nonprofit Radio Show, Nancy and Sarah share with you the lessons they've been reflecting on. 

Join us as we reflect on how these lessons will carry us into 2025, with intentional steps that help us stay focused, resilient, and hopeful!

Question to reflect on before you listen

What less...

Have you ever wanted to make difference without all of the work involved in starting a nonprofit? Fiscal sponsorship might just be your solution.

In this episode of the Nonprofit Radio Show, Nancy and Sarah unpack the concept of fiscal sponsorship—a powerful tool for advancing a mission without starting a nonprofit. They explore how fiscal sponsorship can help grassroots projects access funding and build capacity, especial...

“When you start to think about your mission as a movement....” You may have heard this phrase many times in past episodes. In this episode of the Nonprofit Radio Show, Nancy and Sarah explain what they mean by it. They dive into why this re-frame is so valuable and how you will know if you have achieved it. 

What could you achieve if you saw your mission as part of a broader movement? How might it help you to focus on coll...

Culture is like the foundation of a house. Just as a strong foundation keeps a house stable through storms and changing weather, a healthy board culture supports a nonprofit through challenges and growth. If the foundation is weak or neglected, cracks will eventually show, leading to miscommunication, disengagement, and even conflict . In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk about why board culture matters and how to intentionally sh...

In this episode of the Nonprofit Radio Show, Nancy and Sarah dig into why every nonprofit should have a clear volunteer strategy. People are seeking meaningful ways to engage-- why not make our nonprofit the go-to place for community members to get involved in a cause they care about. Join us as we explore how building a thoughtful, goal-centered volunteer plan can deepen connections to your mission, attract future leaders, and eve...

We all have so much on our to-do list. The only way to get it all done is by sharing the load. That's why nonprofit leaders must learn to delegate effectively, whether we are talking about Executive Directors delegating to their boards and staff or volunteer managers entrusting responsibilities to their volunteers. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah dive into the art of delegation, why it's essential, and how you can master...

New graduates are scouring the internet looking for a job. Many want to turn their passion into a career. Starting a career in the nonprofit sector can be both exciting and daunting, especially for new graduates looking to make a meaningful impact.  Are you looking to create a long-lasting and impactful career in the nonprofit world? In this episode, Nancy and Sarah share seven tips to help you build a sustainable and meaningful ca...

We need to motivate people all around us. Nonprofit Executive Directors need to motivate their boards and staff members. Volunteer managers need to motivate volunteers. Folks raising money need to motivate donors to give. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk about the two elements needed to create the conditions for someone to feel motivated to take action. 

Are you wondering how to motivate the people around you? Take a ...

We keep hearing from organizations that they can't find board members. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah discuss some key components for ensuring your mission attracts great board members. They discuss different recruitment strategies, from the "open call" to "by invitation only." By the end of the episode, you'll have ideas on new ways to recruit members of your community to serve on your board. 

Enjoye...

The word "risk" can sound so.... well, risky! Risk often carries a negative connotation, evoking thoughts of danger and uncertainty. However, understanding and managing risk is crucial for the long-term success of any organization.

In this episode, we invite you to think about risk and what that means for your nonprofit. We are joined by Ted Bilich, CEO of Risk Alternatives and author of Managing Your Nonprofit ...