loader from loading.io

Holistic communications for nonprofits with Meghan Speer

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

Release Date: 03/04/2025

Navigating Nonprofit Careers with Matt Hugg show art 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...

info_outline
Beyond the Ask: Building nonprofit board champions with Michele Walls show art 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...

info_outline
Embodied leadership for nonprofits with LeeAnn Mallorie show art 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...

info_outline
Using AI for better nonprofit fundraising with Josh Hirsch show art 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...

info_outline
Building community through nonprofits with James Young show art 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...

info_outline
Ethical video storytelling for nonprofits with Rachel Jellinek show art 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...

info_outline
Innovation for nonprofits with Leah Kral show art 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...

info_outline
Scenario planning for nonprofits + Podcastathon with Carol Hamilton show art 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...

info_outline
Holistic communications for nonprofits with Meghan Speer show art 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,...

info_outline
Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall show art 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...

info_outline
 
More Episodes

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, adopt a long-term view, and prioritize appreciation to build lasting relationships.

 

Episode highlights:

[00:07:00] Defining Holistic Communication

[00:08:51] Real-World Impact of Communication Silos

[00:12:30] Mapping Communication Touchpoints

[00:18:30] Overcoming Campaign Fatigue

[00:23:00] Understanding Donor Behavior

[00:27:30] The Role of Gratitude in Donor Relationships

 

Key Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders

  • Foster collaboration by breaking down silos and ensuring everyone is on the same page.

  • Think beyond immediate campaign results and adopt a long-term view of donor engagement.

  • Invest in consistent, clear, and human-centered messaging across all communication channels.

  • Show appreciation and follow up with donors to maintain trust and connection.

  • Engage with everyday donors to gain valuable insights into their motivations and perceptions.

 

Guest Bio:

Meghan Speer serves as the Executive Director of Nonprofit Hub, a nonprofit educational site dedicated to providing excellent content and resources for those leading nonprofits. She is the host of the Nonprofit Hub radio podcast and has spoken at countless conferences and conventions helping leaders to craft holistic communication and donor strategies. For over 10 years, Meghan was with Marketing Support Network,  serving in key executive roles focused on communications strategies that help organizations of all sizes grow and scale. Meghan lives in Pittsburgh, PA where she is active with many organizations serving her inner city neighborhood.


Important Links and Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-speer55/

https://www.marketingsupportnetwork.com/

 

Be in Touch:

✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting

💻 Give us feedback on the show

📚Find the books referred to on Nonprofit Mission: Impact

👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend

🌟 Help more people learn about Nonprofit Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review.

😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn