Libsyn Directory

Insights for nonprofits from MacKenzie Scott's philanthropy with Michael Randel

Release Date: 07/02/2024

Navigating Nonprofit Careers with Matt Hugg

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 126 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Matt Hugg discuss the unique landscape of nonprofit careers. Together, they explore: what makes nonprofit work meaningful and distinctive, including the opportunities and challenges for those transitioning into or advancing within the sector. how nonprofit professionals can align their skills and passions, how to navigate career shifts, and maintain their connection to mission-driven work. This conversation offers nonprofit leaders practical wisdom on supporting their teams and nurturing their...

Beyond the Ask: Building nonprofit board champions with Michele Walls

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 125, of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton talks with Michele Walls. Michele shares her deep well of experience in nonprofit fundraising, communications, and strategic development. They explore: the importance of thoughtful relationship-building, patience, and team collaboration in securing sustainable funding. how fundraising is a team effort and a long game. how to move from reactive panic to strategic action—even amid uncertainty and funding contractions. Episode highlights: 🤝 Fundraising is a Team Sport [08:45] Top fundraising tips: People...

Embodied leadership for nonprofits with LeeAnn Mallorie

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 124 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and LeeAnn Mallorie discuss about navigating leadership from a place of embodiment, resilience, and grace. They explore: how tuning into the body can help leaders make better choices, weather organizational turbulence, and come through crisis with renewed purpose. How our effectiveness and influence are deeply tied to how we relate to ourselves—and that honoring our inner wisdom is not a luxury, but a necessity in today’s climate of uncertainty and change. Episode highlights: What Is Embodiment and Why It...

Using AI for better nonprofit fundraising with Josh Hirsch

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 123 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Josh Hirsch discuss using AI in fundraising and donor engagement. They explore: The evolution of AI, and its potential to enhance how organizations connect with donors. How to train AI tools effectively, leveraging data responsibly, and using AI to enhance—rather than replace—human-driven strategy. Why nonprofit leaders who embrace AI thoughtfully do not need to fear the technology EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: The Evolution and Role of AI in Nonprofits - [00:010:00] How Nonprofits Can Use AI...

Building community through nonprofits with James Young

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 122 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and James Young discuss the role of community, social innovation, and problem-solving in nonprofit leadership. They explore how organizations can foster meaningful collaboration, move beyond traditional silos, and embrace an interdisciplinary approach to tackling complex challenges. the importance of balancing expertise with curiosity, strengthening both bonding and bridging social capital, and designing intentional community experiences that drive impact. Together, they reflect on how associations and...

Ethical video storytelling for nonprofits with Rachel Jellinek

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 121 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Rachel Jellinek discuss the power of video storytelling for nonprofits. They talk about: how nonprofits can use video effectively to connect with their audiences, How to maintain ethical storytelling practices. the importance of focusing on strengths rather than deficits, ensuring those sharing their stories have agency, and balancing emotional impact with authenticity. The conversation also explores common mistakes nonprofits make when creating videos and best practices for incorporating video...

Innovation for nonprofits with Leah Kral

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 120 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Leah Kral discuss how to foster innovation within nonprofits. They discuss six key practices for driving meaningful change: uncovering hidden needs, asking courageous questions, empowering collaboration, embracing experimentation, committing to continuous learning, and building a culture of persuasion. Through relatable stories and actionable advice, together they emphasize the importance of strategic thinking, adaptability, and creating space for bold ideas to thrive...

Scenario planning for nonprofits + Podcastathon with Carol Hamilton

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In this solo episode of Nonprofit Mission Impact, Carol Hamilton delves into scenario planning and its value for nonprofits navigating an era of heightened uncertainty. She emphasizes how scenario planning moves organizations from a state of overwhelm to proactive action, outlines a step-by-step approach and shares a recent client story to illustrate its usefulness. Podcastathon 2025: She also highlights The Arc of Montgomery County and its important role in supporting people with developmental disabilities through local programming and national advocacy as part of...

Holistic communications for nonprofits with Meghan Speer

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 118 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton talks with Meghan Speer about the concept of holistic communication within nonprofit organizations. They discuss: the importance of ensuring consistency and clarity across all communication channels to enhance donor engagement and confidence. insights into breaking down silos, fostering collaboration among internal teams, and how to map out donor touchpoints to deliver a seamless and human-centered experience. The conversation highlights the need for nonprofits to align their messaging with donor expectations,...

Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 117 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Danielle Marshall collaborate on another “learning out loud” episode. They discuss the challenges nonprofit leaders face in these chaotic, uncertain and threatening times. They explore: strategies for resilience, intentionality, and community building, the importance of grounding oneself in mission and values. how to filter out the noise, maintain agency, and support collective action. the significance of strategic focus, how to be mindful about your information consumption steps to...

More Episodes

In episode 101 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Michael Randel discuss

Michael’s research into nonprofit organizations that received significant funding from Mackenzie Scott’s trust-based philanthropy initiative.
The impact of these transformative gifts on nonprofits,
Six key areas of organizational preparedness and grant readiness
Good practices for handling substantial donations.

Episode highlights:

[00:09:30] Mackenzie Scott's Trust-Based Philanthropy

Philanthropy Approach

- Mackenzie Scott’s “quiet giving” process.

- Discussion on how Scott’s approach differs from traditional philanthropy with no application process and minimal reporting requirements.

- The concept of trust-based philanthropy and its implications for recipient organizations.

[00:13:30] Research on organization’s receiving Scott gifts

- Michael’s initial hypothesis and surprising positive research findings

- Insights from interviewing CEOs of recipient organizations about managing large gifts.

[00:15:30] Patterns in Recipient Organizations

- the characteristics and sectors of organizations that received funding.

- The importance of organizational preparedness and strategic clarity.

[00:18:30] Organizational Preparedness

- Key elements that made organizations ready for large donations:

- Clarity of purpose and identity.

- Strategic priorities.

- Proven approaches and evidence-based strategies.

- Aligned leadership and governance.

- Strengthened capacity and systems.

- Learning and adaptation capabilities.

[00:27:30] Organizational Development Lessons

- Michael’s observations on the sustainability of organizations not centered around a charismatic leader.

- Importance of multiple levels of system attention within an organization.

[00:30:30] Holistic Organizational Approach

- Carol and Michael discuss the benefits of a holistic view in organizational development.

- The shift in the consulting field towards addressing multiple aspects of organizational life.

[00:32:30] Taking a comprehensive approach

- Emphasizing a comprehensive look at all organizational components, not just programmatic aspects.

- The role of communication and visibility in securing funding.

[00:35:30] Practical Advice for Handling Large Gifts

Five good practices for organizations receiving large donations:

- Advisor for the CEO.

- Thoughtful sharing of news about the gift.

- Strategic investment planning.

- Establishing a working group for decision-making.

- Effective communication with stakeholders.

Guest Bio:
Michael Randel

Michael Randel helps leaders and their teams move through Change and Growth with Calm and Confidence. He developed the RCA Seasons of GrowthTM framework to help people understand and move through the three common phases of change. This allows leaders to navigate the challenges of change and bring about transformational results.

With 30 years of experience, Michael works with philanthropic foundations, nonprofit organizations, corporations, and public sector agencies to help them navigate change with success and poise with his expertise in organizational change. The influence and impact of Michael’s work has been recognized with multiple global awards, and his clients include Amnesty International, AstraZeneca, NASA, United Nations, and the World Bank.

Important Links and Resources:

Yield Giving: https://yieldgiving.com/

Michael Randel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelrandel/

https://rcachangeadvisors.com/

Gestalt approach to organization development

https://www.gestaltosd.org/

Related Episodes:

Episode 15 The Nonprofit executive director-board chair relationship

Episode 17 Program evaluation

Episode 67: Get that money honey

Episode 69: Designing for strategy

Episode 70: Values based strategic planning