Nonprofit Mission: Impact

Nonprofit Mission: Impact is the podcast for nonprofit leaders who want to build a better world without becoming a martyr to the cause. Interviews of nonprofit experts explore how to make your organization more effective and aligned for greater mission impact. Hosted by Carol Hamilton, principal, Grace Social Sector Consulting, inclusive nonprofit strategic planning and evaluation design consultant.

Podcasthon 2026: Nonprofit Sector Under Pressure: Why It Matters More Than Ever 03/19/2026

Podcasthon 2026: Nonprofit Sector Under Pressure: Why It Matters More Than Ever The nonprofit sector is under growing pressure, and this episode explores what’s at stake while making the case for its essential role in filling gaps, strengthening democracy, building community, and driving social change—grounded in a personal story of impact through The Arc of Montgomery County. In this special Podcasthon episode, Nonprofit Mission: Impact host Carol Hamilton situates the nonprofit sector within a broader moment of political and social pressure, naming both the challenges facing the sector and the essential role nonprofits play in society. She: - reflects on the sector’s relative invisibility despite its scale and impact, - offers five core reasons nonprofits matter—from filling critical gaps to advancing social innovation. Alongside this broader perspective, she grounds the conversation in a personal story, highlighting The Arc of Montgomery County and its impact on her brother’s life. The episode invites nonprofit leaders to more actively share their stories, advocate for the sector, and recognize their role in strengthening democracy and community. Episode Highlights [00:00:00] Podcasthon introduction and purpose [00:01:00] The scale and visibility of the nonprofit sector [00:03:00] Current threats to the nonprofit sector [00:04:00] Policy and funding impacts on nonprofits [00:05:00] Broader consequences for services and communities [00:06:00] Examples of resistance and sector response [00:07:00] Trust, visibility, and the need for storytelling [00:08:00] Five reasons the nonprofit sector matters [00:09:00] Nonprofits fill critical gaps [00:10:00] Role in social movements [00:11:00] Building social capital and connection [00:12:00] Strengthening democracy and civic life [00:13:00] Promoting social innovation [00:15:00] Recap of the sector’s importance [00:17:00] Introduction to The Arc of Montgomery County [00:18:00] Services, mission, and advocacy of The Arc Links and Resources Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/40548270

Conferences & Convenings that Engage for Nonprofits & Associations with Lee Gimpel 03/10/2026

Conferences & Convenings that Engage for Nonprofits & Associations with Lee Gimpel Too many nonprofit and association conferences and convenings are built around logistics and tradition rather than purpose and participation. In episode 144 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Lee Gimpel challenge nonprofit and association leaders to rethink how convenings, conferences, and member events are designed. They discuss: why too many gatherings feel like a heavy lift that fails to deliver connection, energy, or real value. why traditional conference formats fall short—and what leaders can do differently. How effective events start with purpose, not logistics, and they are designed to tap the collective wisdom already in the room. By centering participation, intentional connection, and simple facilitation shifts, organizations can transform events from passive, draining experiences into energizing spaces that actually advance mission and strengthen community. Episode highlights: [07:00] A Defining Moment: Why So Many Meetings Fall Flat [09:00] The Core Problem with Traditional Conferences [12:00] Start with Purpose: Asking “Why” (Over and Over) [14:30] Rethinking the Keynote Model [16:45] Participation Over Performance [19:30] Simple Design Shifts That Increase Engagement [22:30] Making Q&A Actually Work [25:30] Blending Content and Connection [31:45] Fixing Networking with Intention [38:30] Why Receptions Often Miss the Mark [41:45] The One Question Leaders Must Ask Guest Bio: Lee Gimpel helps organizations design and lead meetings, retreats, and conferences that are more connected and productive. He is the founder ofBetter Meetings, a DC-based facilitation, training, and experience design firm that often works on events with a high need for engagement, collaboration, and networking. Clients include theNational Association of Realtors, Conservation International, Sodexo, and WorldBank. A frequent expert contributor toForbeson the topic of meetings, he created theConference Engagement Cards and serves on the board of the Association of Meeting Professionals Important Links and Resources: Facilitation processes mentioned: World Cafe - Fishbowl - Peer Consulting - Conversation Cafe - Liberating Structures - Pechakucha - Ignite - Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/40380090

People Centered HR for Nonprofits with MR Rolfe 02/24/2026

People Centered HR for Nonprofits with MR Rolfe People-centered HR isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. Learn how nonprofit leaders can build equitable, transparent, and humane people practices that strengthen their organizations, even amid uncertainty and limited resources. In episode 143 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton speaks with Megan Rolfe about: what it really means to practice people-centered HR in nonprofit and social-change organizations—especially small teams navigating limited resources, rising uncertainty, and growing demands for equity. reframing HR not as a compliance or risk-management function, but as a shared set of agreements about how people work together. equitable compensation, including the difference between living and thriving wages, transparency in pay practices, and balancing risk, safety and boldness in today’s environment Throughout, Megan emphasizes progress over perfection, collective responsibility, and the relief that comes from remembering: you don’t have to do this all by yourself, all at once, or exactly right. Episode highlights: [00:08:06] Finding HR by Accident—and Choosing It on Purpose [00:10:05] Why Small Organizations Are Where HR Can Be Transformative [00:12:50] What People-Centered HR Really Means [00:14:30] Protecting the Organization Because of the People [00:18:52] Living Wage vs. Thriving Wage [00:21:44] Start Where You Can: Entry-Level Pay Matters Most [00:24:52] Concrete Steps Toward More Equitable Pay—Without New Money [00:29:23] Why Pay Transparency Builds Trust [00:31:07] Navigating Risk, Fear, and “Safety” in Uncertain Times [00:34:15] Scenario Planning for People, Not Just Programs [00:37:030] A Mantra for Leaders Carrying Too Much Guest Bio: Megan Rolfe provides small social justice organizations with the HR support they need to move work forward and impact change. Having spent 15+ years supporting nonprofits and small businesses focused on making the world a better place, equipping the teams that most need capacity for their vital work holds a special place in her heart Important Links and Resources: : Resources including working towards a thriving wage and first steps towards more equitable compensation : includes more resources on equitable compensation Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/40218410

When Strategy Meets Organization Design for Nonprofits with Jeanne Bell 02/10/2026

When Strategy Meets Organization Design for Nonprofits with Jeanne Bell Nonprofit organization design is about how an organization works: how decisions get made, how power flows, how people collaborate across boundaries, and how strategy actually gets translated into day-to-day action. In episode 142, of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Jeanne Bell dig deeply into why organization design—often overlooked or reduced to org charts—is actually a missing discipline nonprofits need to truly operationalize their strategy and values. They discuss: How nonprofits are too often stuck in false dichotomies (flat vs. hierarchical), Why too many organizations are burdened by overly complicated compensation systems, and hindered by management team structures that don’t reflect how strategy actually needs to happen. How by aligning Galbraith’s STAR model elements—strategy, structure, processes, rewards, and people, nonprofit organizations can genuinely act on their missions. This episode offers nonprofit leaders a grounded, liberating framework for rethinking how their organizations make decisions, how people collaborate, and what it really means to design for impact. Episode highlights: 09:05 | Why the STAR Model Matters in Nonprofit Life 13:20 | A Clear, Shared Definition of Strategy (And Why It’s Non-Negotiable) 15:15 | When to Revisit Strategy: The Changing Sociopolitical Context 17:25| Beyond Flat vs. Hierarchical: Designing for Roles, Accountability & Power 20:20 | The Critical Role of Cross-Functional Spaces 23:05 | Stop Creating Ineffective Committees & Task Forces 27:25 | Recommendations vs. Decisions: Be Honest About Power 30:05 | Rewards & Compensation: The Hidden Restraints on Organizational Design 35:35 | Job Descriptions: A Mechanistic Tool Limiting Flexibility 38:20 | Why Management Teams Don’t Work (And What to Build Instead) 42:05 | The Question Every Nonprofit Leader Should Ask 44:35 | Closing Reflections Guest Bio: Jeanne Bell is the co-founder of Just Org Design. She has consulted on nonprofit strategy and organizational change for over 25 years. Jeanne also curates Nonprofit Quarterly's Leading Edge Program, recruiting and presenting nonprofit practitioners advancing more equitable nonprofit leadership practices. Previously, Jeanne led Compass Point Nonprofit Services, one of the country's premier leadership and capacity-building organizations. While serving as CEO, Jeanne also chaired the board of the Alliance for Nonprofit Management, a national association of nonprofit capacity builders and academics. She currently serves on the boards of Community Works and The Resilience Initiative (advisory). She has a Masters in Nonprofit Management from the University of San Francisco. Jeanne loves living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Follow Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/40055600

Practicing Presence in Polarized Times for nonprofits and associations with Danielle Marshall 01/27/2026

Practicing Presence in Polarized Times for nonprofits and associations with Danielle Marshall Polarization isn’t just a political issue—it’s a leadership challenge, and this episode examines how nonprofit leaders can respond with presence rather than reactivity. In this “Learning Out Loud" episode of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton and guest Danielle Marshall explore how nonprofit leaders can navigate today’s polarized environment with greater awareness, empathy, and intention. Together they: Explore the tension between “winning” difficult conversations and staying grounded, clarifying purpose, and choosing ‘right relationship’ over being right. Unpack how polarization shows up not just in public discourse, but in workplaces, boardrooms, and personal relationships—and Discuss how small, practical practices like pausing, setting intentions, and taking responsibility for impact can help leaders build bridges instead of deepening divides. Episode Highlights [00:00:27] Polarization Moves From the Headlines Into Daily Life [00:01:20] Being Right vs. Being in Right Relationship [00:02:28] The Emotional Toll of Polarization [00:03:00] Modeling Constructive Dialogue as a Leader [00:06:18] Polarization Is Everywhere—Even When It’s Not Directed at You [00:08:16] Entering Conversations With Awareness [00:09:22] Learning How to Listen Requires Practice [00:11:31] How Social Media Amplifies Division [00:13:00] Conflict Entrepreneurs and the Cost of Engagement [00:15:01] Choosing Curiosity Over Combat [00:16:44] Resetting Mid-Conversation [00:18:25] Owning Your Triggers [00:19:18] Learning From Missteps and Making Repair [00:22:02] Clarifying Meaning Instead of Making Assumptions [00:23:42] Defining Polarization [00:25:12] The Stories We Make About “Those People” [00:27:02] Setting Intentions Before Difficult Conversations [00:30:22] What Does “Right Relationship” Mean? [00:31:42] Accountability Without Punishment [00:34:10] Polarization as a Chasm—and the Skills That Build Bridges [00:35:47] Start With One Practice [00:36:23] Closing Conversations With Care [00:37:24] Begin Where You Are Guest Bio: Danielle Marshall is an equity strategist and executive coach committed to helping organizations and leaders embed inclusive practices into their operations in meaningful and sustainable ways. As the founder of Culture Principles, she designs tailored strategies that strengthen team dynamics, enhance problem-solving, and cultivate inclusive leadership. Danielle also coaches senior executives to deepen their cultural competencies, fostering greater empathy, effective communication, and equitable decision-making. An ICF-certified Executive Coach and engaging speaker, she brings extensive experience in organizational development, equipping leaders with the skills and confidence to navigate diverse work places with impact and integrity. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/39893820

Scenario Planning for Nonprofits in Uncertain Times with Carol Hamilton 01/13/2026

Scenario Planning for Nonprofits in Uncertain Times with Carol Hamilton As nonprofit leaders move into 2026, uncertainty no longer feels episodic—it feels constant. Scenario planning offers nonprofit leaders a practical way to navigate uncertainty by shifting from reactive decision-making to clearer priorities, stronger alignment, and more confident, values-aligned choices—even when the future is unpredictable. In this episode of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton names the fatigue, overwhelm, and decision paralysis many leaders are carrying after this past year of heightened disruption. She introduces scenario planning as a practical, grounding strategy tool designed specifically for uncertain times. She discusses: What scenario planning and is not Why it is a tool that is particularly suited to the times we are in How scenario planning helps nonprofit leaders regain a sense of agency, clarify what’s within their control, and align staff and board around thoughtful, values-aligned responses to multiple possible futures. Through clear explanations and client examples, the episode shows how scenario planning can help leaders move from reacting and spinning to steering with intention. Episode Highlights 00:00–02:00 | Naming the Reality of Nonprofit Leadership Right Now 02:00–03:20 | Scenario Planning - a tool for the times we are in 03:20–05:00 | What Scenario Planning Is—and Is Not 05:00–06:30 | Why Traditional Planning Often Falls Short 06:30–08:00 | Shifting From Overwhelm to Agency 08:00–09:45 | What the Scenario Planning Process Looks Like 09:45–10:45 | Finding Common Priorities Across Futures 10:45–12:00 | An Invitation to Lead with Intention Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/39717460

[Re-release] Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall 12/30/2025

[Re-release] Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall Explore how nonprofit leaders can cultivate grounded presence, clarify their sphere of control, and stay anchored in mission and values while leading through ongoing uncertainty and disruption. As nonprofit leaders continue navigating unprecedented levels of uncertainty, this “learning out loud” episode of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, host Carol Hamilton and guest Danielle Marshall offers a grounded, human-centered exploration of how leaders can steady themselves—and their organizations—amid chaos. Drawing on lived experience, strategic frameworks, and resilience practices, the conversation centers on: cultivating a grounded presence, clarifying what is within one’s sphere of control, and anchoring decision-making in mission, values, and community. Rather than offering quick fixes, the episode invites nonprofit leaders to slow down, filter the noise, strengthen boundaries, and choose intentional actions that sustain both personal wellbeing and collective impact over the long haul. Episode Highlights [00:00–02:05] Regrounding in Turbulent Times [04:15–06:39] Grounded Presence as a Leadership Practice [06:39–08:23] Chaos Is the Strategy—So Center Your Why [08:23–10:19] Filtering the Noise & Choosing Information Wisely [12:08–14:44] Resilience Isn’t Perfection [15:24–17:31] Making Space for Presence [19:23–20:41] Scenario Planning & the Sphere of Control [21:21–23:32] Don’t Reinvent the Wheel—Find the Organizers [24:07–25:41] Mission as the Unifying Center [26:03–27:57] Agency Over Outrage [29:13–31:08] Community Built Before Crisis [31:08–33:26] The Power of the Local [34:56–36:05] Intentionality Over Fear [40:39–42:40] Boundaries as Leadership Responsibility [46:03–49:00] Doubling Down on Values Important Links and Resources: ). H podcast with adrienne and Autumn Brown podcast podcast by Timothy Snyder which is available in a s by Heather McGee Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/39461050

Strategic questions for strategic thinking for nonprofit leaders with Carol Hamilton 12/16/2025

Strategic questions for strategic thinking for nonprofit leaders with Carol Hamilton Strategy for nonprofits is not a plan to perfect but a human practice—built through care, curiosity, and intentional choices in the face of uncertainty. As the year draws to a close, episode 138 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact brings together reflections from a wide range of nonprofit leaders and thinkers, all responding to one central question: What should nonprofit leaders ask themselves to be more strategic? Across topics as varied as crisis management, equity, careers, evaluation, organizational design, culture, and innovation, a clear throughline emerges—strategy is deeply human work. Rather than offering abstract frameworks, the episode highlights: practical, grounding questions and practices that help leaders navigate uncertainty with clarity, intention, and care. An invitation to slow down, resist urgency, tend to themselves and their teams, Why it's important to surface assumptions, seek multiple perspectives, and make decisions rooted in both alignment and capacity. Together, these reflections offer a steadying guide for leaders facing complexity in the year ahead. Episode Highlights Setting the Frame: Strategy Through Reflection and Humanity [00:00:00–00:01:13] Caring for Basic Needs to Make Better Decisions [00:04:10–00:08:01] Don’t Go It Alone: Expanding Perspective Through Support [00:08:01–00:10:31] Two Essential Leadership Questions: “What Am I Missing?” and “Tell Me More” [00:10:31–00:12:03] Surfacing Expectations and Assumptions [00:12:03–00:14:27] Asking “So What?” to Get to Strategic Impact [00:14:27–00:16:45] From Individual Practice to Organizational Insight [00:17:00–00:18:03] Interrogating Organizational Design [00:18:03–00:19:00] Culture as the Silent Driver of Strategy [00:19:00–00:20:33] Filtering New Opportunities Through Alignment and Capacity [00:20:39–00:21:59] Resisting Frantic Urgency in Favor of Sustainable Focus [00:22:05–00:24:00] Closing Reflection: Strategy as Moment-by-Moment Human Practice [00:24:08–00:25:53] Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/39422350

Navigating Through the In-Between with Interim Nonprofit Leadership with Erin Stratford Owens 12/02/2025

Navigating Through the In-Between with Interim Nonprofit Leadership with Erin Stratford Owens How can nonprofit organizations navigate leadership transitions with steadiness and clarity? In episode 137 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton talks with Erin Stratford Owens, a seasoned interim executive director to answer this question. Carol and Erin talk about: what makes interim leadership distinct from simply “holding down the fort” — it’s a time for honest reflection, system assessment, and preparing the path for what’s next. how boards and staff can make the most of an interim period, the common mistakes to avoid, and why slowing down to plan for sustainability — rather than reacting in urgency — is essential for long-term impact. The conversation offers nonprofit leaders a grounded perspective on turning moments of uncertainty into opportunities for renewal and learning. Episode highlights: [00:08:26] What Interim Leadership Really Is [00:11:56] Misconceptions About Interims [00:15:21] Avoiding Common Mistakes [00:18:46] Setting the Stage for the Next Leader [00:20:26] The Board’s Crucial Role [00:22:41] Building Staff Trust [00:25:36] Addressing Systems and Structure [00:29:26] What Makes an Interim Successful [00:30:56] From Urgency to Sustainability Guest Bio: Erin Stratford Owens is the founder and CEO of ESO Nonprofit Consulting, specializing in Interim Executive Leadership and coaching for nonprofits and nonprofit leaders in transition. Erin holds a BA in English from UNC-Greensboro and a Master's in Nonprofit Management from The New School's Milano School of Policy, Management and Environment. She is a Certified Interim Executive through Armstrong McGuire Interim Leadership Institute. With 12 years of experience as an in-house nonprofit Executive Director, her extensive interim leadership experience includes guiding organizations through critical transitions at Humane Society of the Piedmont, Partners Ending Homelessness, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater High Point, Greensboro Farmers Market, and Humane Society of Catawba County. She currently serves as Board Chair for the Guilford County Continuum of Care and as a Steering Committee member of the Guilford Nonprofit Consortium. When not working or volunteering, Erin enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids, two dogs, and a 16-year-old blind kitty cat named Smokie Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/39234625

Innovation Starts with Nonprofit and Association Culture with Elizabeth Engel and Jamie Notter 11/18/2025

Innovation Starts with Nonprofit and Association Culture with Elizabeth Engel and Jamie Notter In episode 136 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton, Elizabeth Engel, and Jamie Notter talk about their new white paper Lean at 10: Culture Eats Methodology for Lunch. Ten years after Engel first explored Lean Startup principles in the nonprofit and association world, she and Notter revisit what’s changed—and what hasn’t. Carol, Elizabeth and Jamie discuss: Why the tools of innovation are accessible, yet the real challenge in adoption lies in organizational culture. how competing commitments, fear of failure, and rigid silos can quietly sabotage innovation efforts what leaders can do instead to nurture learning, empathy, and experimentation. For nonprofit and association leaders navigating rapid change, this conversation offers a candid look at how to build cultures that support innovation—not resist it. Episode highlights: [00:06:00] Revisiting Lean Startup, 10 Years Later [00:010:50] Defining Lean Startup and Design Thinking [00:011:50] Culture: The Invisible Barrier [00:014:40] When Culture Undermines Innovation [00:19:00] Insight Over Perfection [00:22:00] People Don’t Resist Change—They Resist Being Changed [00:24:40] Low Fences, Not No Silos [00:27:00] Listening Beyond the Boardroom [00:30:40] Volunteer Culture Matters Too [00:31:00] The Role of Healthy Conflict [00:37:35] What a Culture Supportive of Innovation Looks Like [00:41:20] From Reactive to Proactive Transparency [00:44:35] The Questions Nonprofit Leaders Should Ask Guest Bios: Elizabeth Weaver Engel, M.A., CAE, is Chief Strategist at Spark Consulting. For more than 25 years, Elizabeth has helped associations grow in membership, marketing, communications, public presence, and especially revenue, which is what Spark is all about. She speaks and writes frequently on a variety of topics in association management. When she's not helping associations grow, Elizabeth loves to dance, listen to live music, cook, and garden. Jamie Notter is a speaker, author, consultant, and culture scientist. His career spans 30 years, with more than a decade of research and practice in the culture field, as well as deep experience in areas like conflict resolution and generations. He desperately wants to make work suck less for everyone, and has written four popular business books, including the award-winning Non-Obvious Guide to Employee Engagement, and his latest release, Culture Change Made Easy. He holds a Master’s in conflict resolution from George Mason and a certificate in Organization Development from Georgetown, where he served as adjunct faculty. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/39074550

Designing nonprofits for impact with Julian Chender 11/04/2025

Designing nonprofits for impact with Julian Chender 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 offers nonprofit leaders practical insights into building organizations that are resilient, adaptable, and positioned for impact. Episode highlights: The Why Behind the Work - [00:08:08] Defining Organizational Design - [00:13:53] Structure, Silos, and Collaboration - [00:14:41] Common Mistakes in Nonprofit Design - [00:18:23] Balancing Human-Centered Values and Strategy - [00:20:40] Downsizing by Design - [00:24:36] Participation and Ownership - [00:23:32] Benchmarking vs. Mass Customization - [00:30:01] Strategic Plans Require Organizational Design - [00:37:40] Mergers and Strategic Alliances - [00:41:21] Examples of Successful Mergers - [00:44:16] The Key Question for Leaders - [00:47:57] Guest Bio: Julian Chender is the founder of 11A Collaborative, an organization design firm focused on creating healthy society through healthy organizations. In his early years, Julian was an internal consultant at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) under Tony Fauci during the agency’s response to the global Ebola and Zika crises. From there, he moved to external consulting, eventually joining Accenture’s Operating Model & Organization Design practice shortly after its acquisition of Kates Kesler. Through 11A Collaborative, Julian has consulted to purpose-driven organizations across sectors. He is a Certified Organization Design Practitioner and an ICF-Certified Coach who holds a master’s degree in Organization Development from American University and a B.A. in History from Swarthmore College. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/38905275

Rethinking Nonprofit Program Evaluation with Kayla Meyers 10/21/2025

Creating Safer Nonprofit Spaces with Paula Brantner 10/07/2025

Creating Safer Nonprofit Spaces with Paula Brantner 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 of conduct need to include all constituents, including for example sponsors and vendors to be effective For nonprofit and association leaders seeking to build safer and braver organizational cultures, this episode is full of actionable insight. Episode highlights: Inadequate Legal System - [00:08:23] Reporting Systems as Ground Zero - [00:9:45] Small Organizations Are Especially Vulnerable - [00:11:00] Aligning Codes of Conduct with Values - [00:13:19] Moving Beyond Punitive Approaches - [00:15:48] Codes Should Live Beyond the Employee Handbook - [00:17:01] Who's in the Ecosystem? Everyone. - [00:18:00] Special Risk Zones: Conferences and Galas - [00:21:00] Building Visible, Trained Allies Programs - [00:24:35] Multiple Reporting Channels Are Key - [00:27:00] Trauma-Informed Listening - [00:38:18] Power Dynamics and Systemic Barriers - [00:37:00] Organizational Excellence: 3 Leading Practices - [00:42:00] Proactive Culture-Building as a Strategic Imperative: It can happen anywhere - [00:46:10] Guest Bio: Paula Brantner of Accountability Ignited builds harassment and toxic workplace prevention systems that reflect your values and transform your culture. She works with academic societies, professional organizations, nonprofits, and political organizations on training, reporting systems and policy development to encourage reporting, ensure accountability, and build a harassment-free environment. Prior to founding Accountability Ignited in 2016, Paula spent 18 years (including eight as executive director) with Workplace Fairness, a legal nonprofit that educates workers about their legal rights in the workplace. An employment lawyer for over 30 years, Paula has degrees from UC Law-San Francisco and Michigan State University’s James Madison College. She has a credential from the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI-CH), and incorporates training in trauma-informed and anti-racism principles and practices into her work. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/38492415

Demystifying Government Grants for nonprofit leaders with Justine Krank 09/23/2025

Demystifying Government Grants for nonprofit leaders with Justine Krank 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 building relationships even in the often opaque government grant space is important Episode highlights: [00:08:17] Clearing Up Misconceptions About Government Grants [00:09:24] The Challenge of Reading RFPs [00:11:48] Why It Matters Who Writes the RFP [00:13:49] The Hidden Details in Grant Links [00:16:02] Budget Pitfalls in Grant Applications [00:17:32] Federal vs. State and Local Funding [00:20:08] Balancing Risk, Reward, and Compliance [00:23:18] Shifting Grant Strategies Amid Funding Freezes [00:25:45] Building True Grant Readiness [00:28:40] How to Research Relevant Funding Streams [00:30:56] The Often-Overlooked Human Element [00:32:31] The Bottom Line: Alignment and Capacity Guest Bio: Justine founded Gold Dust Grants in January 2023 after almost 10 years in the nonprofit field. She's an Intersectional Professional with a background rooted in reproductive justice, a B.A. from UC Berkeley, and over six years of dedicated institutional grant writing experience, bringing in almost $12 million as Lead Writer. As a consultant, she leverages her experience in nonprofit contracts & compliance, and her legal studies background, to help nonprofits submit clear and cohesive proposals with a strong case for support. While the bulk of her grant experience is writing for Transition-Age Youth programs (ages 14-25), she also has extensive experience in: Housing, Mental Health, Workforce Development, and LGBTQIA+ services. She has worked on successful proposals totaling over $25 million in awards funded Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/38326270

When the Stakes Are High: Centering People in Tough Nonprofit Leadership Moments with Melissa Kessler 09/09/2025

When the Stakes Are High: Centering People in Tough Nonprofit Leadership Moments with Melissa Kessler 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] – 🔁 Communications Is Change [00:12:29] – 💔 Communicating Layoffs with Humanity [00:14:30] – 🧠 Leaders Are Always Ahead of the Curve [00:18:24] – 🔄 Defining “Internal” vs. “External” in Complex Systems [00:19:32] – 🧩 Communication Is Not Strategy [00:20:57] – 💬 Who Gets Told What—And When [00:22:55] – ⚠️ Managing With Compassion Through Uncertainty [00:24:54] – 👥 The Impact on Those Who Remain [00:30:15] – 🌅 Ending Well: The Missing Ritual [00:33:15] – 🪦 Organizational Death and Grief [00:35:55] – 🧘‍♀️ Leading in Chaos: Self-Care Is Strategic [00:42:15] – 📝 Your Crisis Plan Should Include Snacks [00:44:04] – Guest Bio: Melissa George Kessler is a consultant and executive coach working in the areas of strategy and organization effectiveness through her independent practice, Organizations + Communications, and with partner firms. She began her career as a reporter and editor; later ran the communications shops for two agriculture associations; and has worked extensively in trade policy and education. Over a 20 year career, Melissa has done work with non-profit and private-sector partners throughout the urban and rural United States and in Asia, Africa and Latin America. She also has spoken at various OD conferences and is the author of a book chapter on communications and strategic change. Melissa splits her time between her hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the national capital area. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/38139080

Nonprofits Under Attack: Defending Democracy, Community, and Innovation with Carol Hamilton 08/26/2025

Nonprofits Under Attack: Defending Democracy, Community, and Innovation with Carol Hamilton 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 share their stories, advocate for the sector, and remind their communities why nonprofits matter now more than ever. Episode highlights: [00:00:00] Five Years of Podcasting [00:00:25] A Sector Under Attack [00:02:00] Specific Threats to the Nonprofit Sector [00:03:38] Resistance and Resilience [00:04:19] Trust in the Sector [00:05:37] Five Reasons Nonprofits Matter Carol shares her top five reasons the sector is essential: Filling critical gaps in services and support Driving social movements for justice and inclusion Building social capital and connections in communities Strengthening democracy and civic life Spurring social innovation that reshapes society [00:06:33–00:12:26] Deep Dive into the Five Reasons [00:25:46] Imperfection, Impact and Resilience [00:26:00–00:27:35] Tell the Good News Leverage campaigns like Nonprofits Get It Done to tell the sector’s story [00:28:00] Looking Ahead Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Follow Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/37952510

Tribute: Fundraising Without Fear: Building Relationships That Fuel Your Nonprofit Mission with Sabrina Walker-Hernandez 08/12/2025

Tribute: Fundraising Without Fear: Building Relationships That Fuel Your Nonprofit Mission with Sabrina Walker-Hernandez In this episode of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton gives a tribute to nonprofit consulting star and nonprofit governance and fundraising expert Sabrina Walker Hernandez, President & CEO of Building Better Boards, by re-releasing their conversation from 2021. Ms. Hernandez passed away in July 2025 after a long battle with cancer. Episode highlights: [00:06:45] Finding Her Why: From Law to Nonprofit Service [00:13:00] Breaking Down the Fundraising Cycle [00:18:30] A Mantra for Courage: It’s Not About You [00:21:15] Helping Board Members Identify Donors: The List Generator [00:25:55] Cultivating With Authenticity [00:29:75] Fundraising in Underserved Communities [00:35:55] Where to Begin: Budget and Strategy [00:40:30] Innovating Fundraising Approaches Guest Bio: Sabrina Walker-Hernandez was the President & CEO of Building Better Boards. She has over 30 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and leadership. One of Sabrina’s greatest successes was that she increased operation revenue from$750,000 to $2.5 million over an 8-year period as well as being responsible for the planning and operations of a $12 million comprehensive capital campaign in the 3rd poorest county in the United States. She facilitated numerous workshops with hundreds of nonprofit professionals and was a master trainer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Sabrina gained a certificate in Nonprofit Management by Harvard Business School. She was an active community leader and volunteer in Edinburg, Texas. Important Links and Resources: Tributes to Sabrina: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/37767100

Building psychological safety in nonprofit organizations with Michael Randel 07/28/2025

Building psychological safety in nonprofit organizations with Michael Randel In episode 128 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Michael Randel joins Carol to explore how psychological safety—often dismissed as a “soft” concept—plays a critical role in nonprofit team performance, learning, and innovation. They discuss: The connection between organizational readiness and the deeper human dynamics that shape effective leadership and collaboration. What psychological safety looks like in action, Why it’s vital in today’s polarized climate, How nonprofit leaders can foster inclusive, high-trust environments where people feel safe to speak up, take risks, and learn from mistakes. Episode highlights: [00:08:55] 🔍 What is Psychological Safety? [00:12:05] 📉 The Cost of Silence [00:15:05] 📊 How Do You Know It’s There? [00:17:55] 🧠 Insights from Surgery Rooms [00:21:05] 🤝 Belonging Happens in the Small Moments [00:23:55] 🛠️ The Five Practices of Psychological Safety [00:28:55] 👂 More Than Lip Service [00:32:55] 🔁 Inclusive Rituals in Action [00:37:55] 🧩 Are Leadership Teams Actually Teams? [00:40:55] 📈 Safety and Accountability Aren’t Opposites [00:42:55] ❓ Two Powerful Questions for Leaders Guest Bio: 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: by Amy Edmonson Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 📤👥 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/37590470

From Guilt to Responsibility: A white nonprofit leaders journey into equity work with Cat Lazaroff 07/15/2025

From Guilt to Responsibility: A white nonprofit leaders journey into equity work with Cat Lazaroff In episode 127 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton speaks with Cat Lazaroff. They talk about her work around engaging white-led and majority-white organizations in meaningful culture change to more inclusive, diverse and equitable cultures. They explore: how nonprofit leaders, especially white leaders, can begin and sustain their own equity learning journeys. Privilege, identity, conflict, organizational culture, and the necessity of holding multiple truths. how culture transformation isn’t about quick fixes, but rather long-term commitments, courageous relationships, and collective learning. Episode highlights: [010:20] Starting with the personal [14:50] Identity and Bias: What’s Seen, What’s Hidden [19:50] Lived Experience, Assumptions, and Honoring Multiple Truths [27:20] Managing Conflict and Holding Space [31:20] Navel Gazing or Doing the Work? [36:50] Nuance, Polarity, and Organizational Culture [42:20] Community, and Expanding Belonging [45:50] Guilt, Blame, and the Journey for White Leaders [51:20] Final Advice: Don’t Do This Alone Guest Bio: Cat Lazaroff Cat Lazaroff (she/they) is a white, queer consultant who supports anti-racist culture change at nonprofits and small companies. She specializes in helping other white folks center equity, inclusion, justice, and diversity in their work and their lives. Important Links and Resources: Deep democracy: Liberatory Design: White supremacy culture characteristics: Resource Media: Natasha Aruliah: Tara McMullin: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/37415265

Navigating Nonprofit Careers with Matt Hugg 07/01/2025

Navigating Nonprofit Careers with Matt Hugg 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 own professional journeys. Timestamped Highlights: [00:9:12] The Uniqueness of Nonprofit Careers [00:13:25] Beyond 501(c)(3): The Breadth of the Nonprofit Sector [00:07:51] Transitioning from the Private Sector [00:15:11] Networking and Defining Your Niche [00:18:25] Exploring Support Roles and Vendors [00:20:01] The Rise of Nonprofit Education Programs [00:22:30] Moving from Volunteer to Staff: A Shift in Expectations [00:26:02] Passion, Mission, and Boundaries [00:27:20] Dispelling Misconceptions About Nonprofit Organizations [00:32:43] Consulting and Group Decision-Making [00:36:21] Nonprofit Fundraising: Diverse Skills, Diverse Roles [00:40:20] Embracing Nonlinear Career Paths [00:41:46] Managing Fundraisers: A Need for Education [00:43:20] Staying Grounded in Mission Guest Bio: Matt Hugg is president and founder of Nonprofit.Courses, an on-demand, eLearning resource for nonprofit leaders, staff, board members and volunteers, with thousands of courses in nearly every aspect of nonprofit work. He’s the author of The Guide to Nonprofit Consulting, and Philanders Family Values, Fun Scenarios for Practical Fundraising Education for Boards, Staff and Volunteers. Hugg has held positions at the Boy Scouts of America, Lebanon Valley College, the University of Cincinnati, Ursinus College, and the University of the Arts. In these, Matt raised thousands of gifts from individuals, foundations, corporations and government entities, working with hundreds of volunteers on boards and fundraising committees, in addition to his leadership responsibilities. Matt has taught fundraising, philanthropy, and marketing in graduate programs at Eastern University, the University of Pennsylvania, Juniata College and Thomas Edison State University via the web, and in-person in the United States, Africa, Asia and Europe, and is a popular conference speaker. He has a BS from Juniata College and an MA in Philanthropy and Development from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota. Mr. Hugg has served on the board of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the Nonprofit Career Network of Philadelphia and several nonprofits. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/37233705

Beyond the Ask: Building nonprofit board champions with Michele Walls 06/17/2025

Beyond the Ask: Building nonprofit board champions with Michele Walls 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 give to people—leaders must be visible and engaged. Fundraising is a shared responsibility. Relationships take time—there are no shortcuts. 🌱 Cultivating Donors with Care [10:45] Michele walks through the process of moving a new connection into a meaningful donor relationship. Key steps include follow-up, inviting prospects to experience the mission firsthand, and paying attention to readiness cues before making the ask. 🔍 Assessing Capacity and Readiness [14:15] From simple Google searches to full wealth screenings, Michele outlines how to evaluate a donor’s giving potential while staying grounded in ethical relationship-building. 💡 Leading Through Uncertainty [16:45] With funding sources in flux, Michele advises nonprofits to stay calm, stay informed, and deepen relationships with current funders. Direct communication is more important than ever. 🌈 Strategic Diversification [20:45] Diversify, but do it with intention. Michele recommends starting with mid-level donors and using board connections. It's not about doing everything—it's about doing the right next thing. 📣 Boards as PR Champions [23:15] Not every board member needs to be a fundraiser, but every board member should be a storyteller. Sharing the mission builds the foundation for future support. 🧩 What is Fractional Fundraising? [26:45] Michele explains her approach to fractional fundraising: part-time support with full-time expertise. From strategy to grant writing to board coaching, she fills gaps and builds capacity. 🔍 Onboarding with Intention [30:45] Every client engagement begins with deep listening, thoughtful review of materials, and an exploration of what's working, what needs attention, and what priorities are driving fundraising. 🧭 The Question Every Leader Should Ask [33:15] “What can I say no to?” Michele challenges leaders to focus, set boundaries, and recognize that saying no can create space for greater impact. Guest Bio: Michele brings two decades of experience in fundraising, communications, and nonprofit management. Having raised over $30 million for small and mid-sized organizations, she guides nonprofits across arts, education, cultural, and social justice sectors towards stability and growth.Through MW Strategies, Michele supports organizations with $100K-$5M budgets,specializing in fundraising and human resources. She develops data-driven strategies and compelling stories that drive success.Michele excels in major gifts, campaigns, and grants, while bringing expertise in organizational development. She guides organizations through critical phases,emphasizing collaboration and revenue maximization.Michele serves on the boards of CultureWorks Greater Philadelphia and theAssociation of Consultants to Nonprofits. A Philadelphia resident, she holds degrees from the University of Delaware and Drexel University, balancing her professional life with interests in running, cooking, and the city's cultural scene. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at  and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️  /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/36963085

Embodied leadership for nonprofits with LeeAnn Mallorie 06/03/2025

Embodied leadership for nonprofits with LeeAnn Mallorie 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 Matters [08:15] Resilience in a Time of Chaos [11:15] The Power of Letting Go [13:59] Balancing Drive with Surrender [17:15] Grace as Leadership Range [19:26]. Leaders Getting in Their Own Way [22:15] Co-Creating with What Is [23:26] Feeling First, Then Acting [26:58] Leading Through Uncertainty [24:01] Advice for Those in Transition [29:16] A Strategic Shift: Collective Leadership [35:15] Guest BIO: LeeAnn Mallorie, CEO of Guts & Grace Leadership, began her career as an executive coach in 2006, working with leaders and teams from around the globe. Yet she soon found something was missing—the body. This led her on a personal journey of physical, mental, and spiritual healing, to eventually embrace the feminine side of leadership. Committed to walking her talk, she brings these lessons back to her clients in the corporate, non-profit and government sectors, with surprisingly positive results. Today LeeAnn specializes in bringing feminine wisdom and diverse cultural values into business, as keystone to solving some of our world’s stickiest problems. Using practical embodiment tools, she helps attendees bridge the gap between the hard-driving logical mind and the deeper wisdom of the soul. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at 💻 📚 👥 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 ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/36830155

Using AI for better nonprofit fundraising with Josh Hirsch 05/20/2025

Using AI for better nonprofit fundraising with Josh Hirsch 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 Effectively - [00:12:31] Training AI to Match Your Brand’s Voice - [00:16:51] Best Practices for AI Implementation - [00:20:31] Ethical Considerations and Policy Development - [00:25:25] A Case Study: AI in Action for Donor Engagement - [00:22:00] Future Trends in AI and Nonprofit Work - [00:27:56] Final Advice for Nonprofit Leaders - [00:33:02] GUEST BIO: Josh Hirsch is an accomplished nonprofit strategist and educator specializing in digital communications and fundraising innovation. With over two decades of experience, Josh has driven impact for organizations through roles such as Director of Mission and Communication at Susan G. Komen Florida and faculty member at The Fund Raising School. He currently serves as Education and Training Strategist at Fundraise Up, where he leads the development of cutting-edge donor engagement initiatives, including the Modern Digital Fundraising Essentials certificate program. Josh is a generative AI expert, leveraging emerging technologies to optimize nonprofit workflows and enhance donor experiences. A dynamic speaker and consultant, Josh is passionate about empowering organizations to overcome barriers to giving and achieve sustainable growth. Connect with him at theaidude.ai or through his AI Dude podcast. IMPORTANT LINKS & RESOURCES: BE IN TOUCH: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 📚 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Follow Carol Hamilton ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/36637570

Building community through nonprofits with James Young 05/06/2025

Building community through nonprofits with James Young 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 nonprofits can evolve to meet the shifting needs of their members and society at large. Episode highlights: [00:09:45] Social Innovation as a Driving Force [00:012:00] Navigating Uncertainty While Staying Grounded in Mission [00:13:22] Learning Communities and Interdisciplinary Problem-Solving [00:16:48] The Role of Expertise and Curiosity in Leadership [00:19:08] The Messiness of Community and Building Trust [00:21:20] Conditions for Successful Communities [00:23:03] The Importance of Bridging Capital in Building Inclusive Networks [00:26:24] Lessons from the Past: Can We Rebuild Community Engagement? [00:33:10] Rethinking Association and Nonprofit Models [00:37:45] Designing Organizations for Connection and Problem-Solving [00:41:28] Invitation to Nonprofit Leaders: Permission to Forgive Ourselves Guest Bio: James Young is founder and chief learning officer of the Product Community and writes a weekly newsletter called The Innovative Association. Jim is a leading thinker in the worlds of associations, learning communities, and product development. Prior to starting the product community, he served as senior vice president for education and chief learning officer at the American College of Chest Physicians and chief learning officer at the Society of College and University Planning. He earned a PhD at George Mason University, a masters at the University of Michigan, and a bachelors at Michigan State University. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at 📚 👥 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 ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/36450165

Ethical video storytelling for nonprofits with Rachel Jellinek 04/15/2025

Ethical video storytelling for nonprofits with Rachel Jellinek 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 storytelling into their communications strategy. Episode highlights: Strategic Video Planning vs. DIY Approach [00:06:53] Key Storytelling Questions for Nonprofits [00:07:11] Avoiding the "Tearjerker" Trap[00:09:45] Ethical Storytelling: Moving Beyond the "Savior" Narrative[00:11:58] Dispelling Myths and Misperceptions Through Video [00:13:54] Ensuring Storyteller Agency and Power Dynamics Awareness[00:15:27] Building Trust in the Storytelling Process [00:18:04] The Role of B-Roll in Video Storytelling [00:18:45] Common Nonprofit Video Mistakes [00:21:32] Incorporating Inclusive Voices in Video Content [00:27:45] The Value of Joy in Storytelling [00:33:33] Guest Bio: Rachel Jellinek is President of Reflection Films, a certified woman-owned video production company that does video storytelling and content creation for a variety of mission-driven organizations. Reflection Films does filming and animation, typically for a fundraising, marketing, or training purpose. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts from Harvard University. Prior to Reflection Films, she worked at several nonprofits focused on public health and education. She has served as a health educator for youth and adults; as a director of a literacy program, and as a community relations liaison at MIT. Her experience in the nonprofit world lends itself well to understanding how to tell client stories in an emotionally compelling and entertaining way. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at 📚 👥 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. 😀 Follow Carol Hamilton on ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/36120955

Innovation for nonprofits with Leah Kral 04/01/2025

Innovation for nonprofits with Leah Kral 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 in resource-constrained environments. Episode Highlights: [00:10:16] Innovation in Nonprofits [00:11:34] Practice 1: Be a Fearless Problem Solver [00:20:02] Practice 2: Ask Courageous Questions [00:22:52] Practice 3: Empower Collaboration [00:26:30] Practice 4: Experiment and Start Small [00:29:03] Practice 5: Embrace Continuous Learning [00:34:20] Practice 6: Build a Culture of Persuasion [00:39:17] Strategic Thinking as a Permission Slip Guest Bio: Leah Kral is a consultant, public speaker, and author who helps nonprofits innovate and further social change. Her book, Innovation for Social Change: How Wildly Successful Nonprofits Inspire and Deliver Results (Wiley, 2022). For decades, she has been providing tailored workshops and consulting to nonprofit leaders and boards across the country. She is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Jamaica 2002-2004), she loves the outdoors and trails in northern Virginia, and enjoys being an active volunteer in her community. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at and receive the Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make In Strategic Planning And How To Avoid Them 💻 📚 👥 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 ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/35945520

Scenario planning for nonprofits + Podcastathon with Carol Hamilton 03/18/2025

Holistic communications for nonprofits with Meghan Speer 03/04/2025

Holistic communications for nonprofits with Meghan Speer 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: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at 💻 📚 👥 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 ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/35533910

Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall 02/18/2025

Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall 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 sustaining personal and organizational well-being. Episode highlights: [00:07:25] Navigating Leadership in Uncertain Times [00:010:25] Embracing Imperfect Resilience Practices [00:13:25] Shutting Out Noise vs. Making Space for Thought [00:16:25] Finding Agency Amidst Chaos [00:18:25] Trusting Experts and Strategic Organizers [00:20:25] Centering Mission and Values [00:24:25] Navigating Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindsets [00:29:25] The Power of Local Action [00:35:25] Holding Space for Complexity [00:40:25] Emotional Contagion and Leadership Presence [00:44:25] Boundaries, Community, and Self-Care [00:49:25] Looking Ahead: Holding Values Firmly Guest Bio: Danielle Marshall is an equity strategist and executive coach committed to helping organizations and leaders embed inclusive practices into their operations in meaningful and sustainable ways. As the founder of Culture Principles, she designs tailored strategies that strengthen team dynamics, enhance problem-solving, and cultivate inclusive leadership. Danielle also coaches senior executives to deepen their cultural competencies, fostering greater empathy, effective communication, and equitable decision-making. An ICF-certified Executive Coach and engaging speaker, she brings extensive experience in organizational development, equipping leaders with the skills and confidence to navigate diverse work places with impact and integrity. Important Links and Resources: ). H podcast with adrienne and Autumn Brown podcast podcast by Timothy Snyder which is available in a s by Heather McGee Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at 💻 📚 👥 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 ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/35325545

Project management for nonprofits with Jami Yazdani 02/04/2025

Project management for nonprofits with Jami Yazdani In episode 116 of Nonprofit Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton interviews Jami Yazdani, a nonprofit project management expert specializing in helping organizations achieve their goals effectively. The conversation: Focuses on the nuances of project management in mission-driven organizations, Offers practical insights for nonprofit leaders to balance strategic vision and operational execution. Emphasizes prioritization, clear communication, stakeholder inclusion, and sustainable planning as critical to success. Episode Highlights: [00:06:31] Misconceptions About Project Management [00:09:01] Stakeholder Management [00:12:09] Communication Planning [00:14:47] Writing a Clear Project Scope [00:17:06] Defining a Project vs. Program [00:23:02] Transition from Strategic Planning to Implementation [00:29:00] Accountability and Engagement [00:36:07] Invitation to Nonprofit Leaders Guest Bio: Jami Yazdani is a project management and planning consultant with over 18 years of experience leading innovative and impactful initiatives. She spent more than 14years in leadership roles in higher education and libraries, managing teams,projects, and change. Jami founded Yazdani Consulting and Facilitation in 2018 to help mission-driven organizations lead more impactful projects, teams, and planning. She has served on the boards of non-profits and associations in leadership, marketing, programming, and mentoring roles. Jami holds Master's degrees in Technology Management and Library and Information Science and ProjectManagement Professional (PMP), Disciplined Agile Scrum Master (DASM), ChangeManagement, and Wicked Problem Solving Practitioner certifications. Important Links and Resources: Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at 💻 📚 👥 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 ➡️ /episode/index/show/missionimpact/id/35142480

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