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Holistic communications for nonprofits with Meghan Speer

Release Date: 03/04/2025

[Re-release] Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall

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In episode 135 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton talks with organizational design consultant Julian Chender about how nonprofits can move beyond simple restructuring to intentional organizational design that aligns strategy, structure, and process. They discuss: how organizational design is not the same as restructuring how design choices impact effectiveness, collaboration, and long-term sustainability. the pitfalls of designing around personalities, the importance of strategic clarity when facing downsizing or merger decisions. The conversation...

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In episode 134 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton welcomes guest Kayla Meyers, founder of Bridgepoint Evaluation, for a conversation about reimagining program evaluation in nonprofits. They discuss: Why evaluation is not an audit or judgment as it has sometimes been in the past It should be a collaborative, curiosity-driven process that opens communication, supports learning, and improves impact. How to create right-sized, useful evaluation practices rooted in strategy and driven by purpose. How evaluation can be a force for good—helping organizations...

Creating Safer Nonprofit Spaces with Paula Brantner

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In episode 133 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton and guest Paula Brantner, workplace fairness consultant and founder of Accountability Ignited, unpack the real challenges nonprofits face in preventing harassment, bullying, and misconduct. They talk about: The often-overlooked gaps in nonprofit systems—particularly around reporting mechanisms—and The false sense of security many mission-driven organizations have about their immunity to these issues. How to take a proactive, values-based approach rooted in trauma-informed practices, Why codes...

Demystifying Government Grants for nonprofit leaders with Justine Krank

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 132 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Justine Krank discuss the realities and nuances of pursuing US government grants for nonprofit organizations. They discuss: common misconceptions including that government grants equals federal grants The challenges and compliance demands that come with government dollars. How to decode complex RFPs -- the hidden requirements that can make or break an application, and how to get an organization truly grant-ready — not just on paper, but with the capacity to manage the work. why the human side of...

When the Stakes Are High: Centering People in Tough Nonprofit Leadership Moments with Melissa Kessler

Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 131 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Melissa Kessler explore the intersection of communications and organization development, particularly in moments of crisis, transition and change. They talk about how internal communications can either reinforce or undermine values, strategy, and humanity within an organization. how to navigate layoffs, restructuring, or organizational shifts with humanity why how we communicate is just as important as what we decide. Episode highlights: 💬 “It’s a Communications Problem” – Or Is It? [00:09:27]...

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Nonprofit Mission: Impact

In episode 130 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol reflects on five years of podcasting and the sobering state of the nonprofit sector in 2025. While celebrating milestones, she also underscores the challenges nonprofits face amidst unprecedented political attacks, funding cuts, and threats to long-standing principles like nonpartisanship. Despite these challenges, Carol highlights the resilience, innovation, and critical role nonprofits play in society—from filling essential gaps to fueling social movements, strengthening democracy, and sparking innovation. She calls on nonprofit leaders to...

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/

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