A weekly podcast interviewing everyday superheroes and the services and technologies they provide to nonprofits. The goal is to inform nonprofit organizations about ideas, services, and products that can help.
In this powerful and compassionate episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Loretta Turner, a wellness educator and nonprofit advocate, to explore how nonprofit organizations can create sustainable, people-centered work cultures. Together, we dive into the roots of burnout, the importance of embedding care into organizational strategy, and how reimagining nonprofit careers as fulfilling, equitable paths can transform the sector for the better.Topics We Cover:Loretta’s personal journey from psychology and yoga to nonprofit serviceWhy self-accountability is essential to personal well-beingCommon signs of organizational burnout—and how to recognize deeper red flagsThe shared responsibility of leaders and staff in creating a culture of careA holistic definition of well-being drawn from the Robert Wood Johnson FoundationWhy wellness must not be a substitute for fair pay in the nonprofit worldThe case for viewing nonprofit careers as legitimate, long-term professionsA vision of wealth, wage equity, and sustainable futures for nonprofit workersTo Learn More and Connect with Loretta:Fund the PeopleNonprofit Finance Fund - Full Cost ProjectDo Good Leadership CollectiveRobert Wood Johnson FoundationSupport the show
4/14/25 • 42:13
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by Daniel Francavilla to explore the intersection of marketing, storytelling, and nonprofit success. We discuss the critical role of strategic messaging, thought leadership, and authentic storytelling in helping organizations connect with their audience and drive real change.Topics We Cover:How a high school nonprofit project sparked Daniel’s passion for social impactThe challenges of running a nonprofit and the lessons learned along the wayTransitioning from design and advertising to nonprofit marketing consultingThe importance of clear messaging and branding for nonprofitsWhy thought leadership matters and how nonprofit leaders can leverage itThe rise of authentic, unpolished content and why it resonates with modern audiencesStorytelling as a powerful tool for donor engagement and community buildingHow transparency and vulnerability can build trust and strengthen nonprofit impactTo Learn More and Connect with Daniel:TheGoodGrowth.companyPersonal Branding GuideDanielDoes.coDaniel Francavilla on LinkedInSupport the show
4/7/25 • 44:30
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Khalid Cannon to discuss how sports and community mentorship can help children of incarcerated parents break free from societal stigma. Through long-term mentorship, structured funding, and a business-minded approach, the organization ensures kids have the opportunity to thrive beyond their circumstances.Topics We Cover:Khalid Cannon’s personal journey from Alabama to Yale and how his upbringing influenced his passion for giving backThe impact of incarceration stigma on children and how it affects their opportunities and future prospectsHow Put Me In provides financial support to young athletes to cover sports-related expensesThe importance of long-term mentorship in shaping the success of children from underserved communitiesThe emotional and measurable success stories that highlight the deep impact of the programTo Learn More and Connect with Khalid:PutMeIn.orgPut Me In! on LinkedInSupport the show
3/31/25 • 41:22
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Carmen Reis to explore the critical role of training in nonprofit success. The conversation also delves into AI’s growing influence in nonprofit education and the long-term benefits of investing in professional development.Topics We Cover:Why specialized training is essential for nonprofit professionalsThe best approach to training employees: onboarding vs. ongoing learningHow investing in training can actually improve employee retentionThe role of volunteers and board members in nonprofit trainingCertifications vs. real-world experience: Which matters more?How Pharo Academy is bridging the nonprofit knowledge gap with over 100 coursesMaking training accessible across Canada and the U.S.The future of AI in nonprofit training and educationTo Learn More and Connect with Carmen:Pharo Academy WebsiteHello@PharoNonprofit.comSupport the show
3/24/25 • 41:54
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we welcome Maria Rio to explore Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF)—a fresh, equity-driven approach to fundraising that prioritizes the needs of the community over individual donors. Maria breaks down the ten principles of CCF, compares it to traditional donor-centric models, and shares actionable insights for nonprofits looking to make the shift.Topics We Cover:Maria’s journey into the nonprofit worldWhat Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) means and why it mattersThe key differences between donor-centric and community-centric modelsThe ten principles of CCF and how nonprofits can apply themThe origins of CCF and its evolution over the past eight yearsThe benefits of adopting a community-driven approach to fundraisingChallenges and misconceptions about transitioning to CCFThe future of nonprofit fundraising and where CCF is headedTo Learn More and Connect with Maria:Maria Rio on LinkedInThe Small Nonprofit PodcastGoFurtherTogether.caNonprofit AF BlogThe ten principles of Community-Centric FundraisingSupport the show
3/17/25 • 29:59
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, host Alexander Lapa speaks with Nagi Alsubai, founder of Peer Minds, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting mental health in the Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian (MENASA) communities. Nagi shares his personal journey, from struggling with mental health stigma to creating a peer mentorship program that fosters open conversations and real change. Tune in to hear how mentorship, lived experience, and strategic partnerships are shaping a new approach to mental wellness.Topics We Cover:The inspiration behind Peer Minds and the need for culturally specific mental health supportHow stigma and cultural expectations impact mental health in MENASA communitiesThe power of mentorship and lived experience in overcoming mental health strugglesThe role of pop culture, including Avatar: The Last Airbender and Boy Meets World, in shaping mentorship modelsHow Peer Minds is creating safe spaces for Arab and South Asian men to discuss mental healthThe challenges and rewards of running a grassroots nonprofit organizationStrategies for building partnerships and expanding reach in the nonprofit sectorThe evolving role of virtual and in-person mentorship in supporting mental wellnessTo Learn More and Connect with Nagi:PeerMinds.org@PeerMindsMentors on Instagram@Peer-Minds on LinkedInE-Mail Nagi@PeerMinds.orgAvatar: The Last Airbender (TV series)Boy Meets World (TV series)Support the show
3/10/25 • 39:10
How can nonprofits build stronger, long-term donor relationships? In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Leigh Sandison, founder of Real Path, to discuss the importance of modernizing donor engagement strategies. Leigh shares insights from her journey in both corporate and nonprofit sectors, highlighting the gaps she noticed in fundraising approaches. She explains why many organizations struggle with donor retention, how outdated assumptions hinder fundraising success, and what nonprofits can do to build more effective, data-driven donor relationships.Topics We Cover:Leigh Sandison’s career journey from Macmillan Cancer Support to founding Real PathThe common mistakes nonprofits make when mapping the donor journeyWhy many fundraising strategies are based on internal assumptions rather than real donor insightsHow qualitative research, like donor interviews, can reshape engagement strategiesThe challenges of donor segmentation and why nonprofits often attract the same demographicsThe cost of acquiring new donors vs. retaining existing ones – and why retention is keyStrategies for calculating and increasing donor lifetime value (LTV)Hidden costs of donor acquisition and why nonprofits need to track their true fundraising expensesTo Learn More and Connect with Leigh:Email Leigh@RealPath.caRealPath.caLeigh Sandison on LinkedInSupport the show
3/3/25 • 42:54
The nonprofit sector is facing a major HR crisis, with high turnover rates and a shortage of experienced professionals. In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit I speak with Cindy Wagman about the root causes of these challenges and explores innovative solutions like fractional fundraising. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, consultant, or industry professional, this episode provides actionable strategies to strengthen your organization and retain top talent.Topics We Cover:Cindy's journey from volunteering to nonprofit consultingWhy nonprofits struggle to hire and retain skilled professionalsThe hidden costs of hiring underqualified staff for key rolesHow leadership gaps contribute to high turnover ratesThe impact of poor mentorship and training on nonprofit employeesWhat fractional fundraising is and how it benefits small organizationsThe difference between fractional consulting and traditional consultingTips for managing workload, setting boundaries, and choosing the right clients as a consultantTo Learn More and Connect with Cindy:FractionalFundraising.coNonprofitFractionals.comCindy Wagman on LinkedInSupport the show
2/24/25 • 47:55
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by Sharon Lee, a nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience. With the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, Sharon challenges outdated industry practices and embraces innovative strategies to increase engagement and funding. Topics We Cover:How Sharon’s unexpected career shift led her to nonprofit workThe importance of questioning outdated practices in nonprofit organizationsInnovative fundraising strategies that move beyond traditional methodsThe power of storytelling and advocacy in driving systemic changeOvercoming resistance when introducing new ideas in nonprofitsSustainable community projects and how they empower local populationsServant leadership and its role in creating lasting impactThe future of nonprofit leadership and the importance of ongoing developmentTo Learn More and Connect with Sharon:CPFF.caInfo@CPFF.caSharon Lee on LinkedInSupport the show
2/17/25 • 48:18
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with fundraising expert Jessie Katz to uncover the secrets of quick wins in nonprofit fundraising. From high-ROI fundraising events to long-term donor engagement tactics, this conversation is packed with actionable insights that can transform any nonprofit’s fundraising approach.Topics We Cover:Jesse Katz’s journey from social work to nonprofit fundraisingWhy traditional fundraising methods may not be as effective as you thinkWhat constitutes a "quick win" and how to identify them in your nonprofitReal-life example: Turning a $3,000 event into $250,000 in pledgesThe importance of systematizing and replicating successful fundraising modelsHow board members can use their networks to strengthen donor relationshipsCrafting a compelling case for support to drive donor engagementMoving beyond one-time donations: Building a culture of ongoing donor involvementTo Learn More and Connect with Jessie:Jessie@zivphilanthropy.comZivPhilanthropy.comSupport the show
2/10/25 • 38:11
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Jennifer Gardner, a former trial lawyer turned leadership coach, to discuss the vital role of emotional intelligence, empathy, and storytelling in effective leadership. Jennifer shares her journey from the courtroom to coaching, revealing how neuroscience and persuasion techniques can help nonprofit leaders engage stakeholders, influence change, and drive impact. Through real-world examples and research-backed insights, she explains why emotional intelligence isn’t just a soft skill—it’s the foundation of true leadership.Topics We Cover:How Jennifer Gardner transitioned from law to leadership coachingThe science behind empathy, mirror neurons, and human connectionWhy sensitivity and emotional awareness are key to persuasionThe role of emotional contagion in political and nonprofit leadershipBalancing logic and emotion for effective persuasionUsing storytelling, case studies, and data to inspire actionEthical influence: using persuasion for positive changeHow nonprofit leaders can develop emotional intelligence for greater impactTo Learn More & Connect with Jennifer:JenniferBGardner.comJennifer B Gardner on LinkedIn@iamjenniferbgardner on InstagramEmpathy, mirror neurons and SYNC articleEmotional Intelligence book by Daniel GolemanSupport the show
2/3/25 • 41:51
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Katelyn Baughan, founder of KB Digital, to explore the untapped potential of email marketing for nonprofits. Katelyn shares her journey from the tech world to nonprofit marketing and dives deep into strategies that drive engagement, retain donors, and boost fundraising success. Topics We Cover:Katelyn's journey from tech to nonprofit marketing and her passion for email communicationWhy email marketing outperforms other channels with a 36:1 ROI for nonprofitsHow A/B testing can improve engagement and reveal audience preferencesKey email metrics to track: click-through rates, reply rates, and conversion ratesThe importance of maintaining a clean email list to optimize engagement and performanceStrategies for balancing value-driven content with direct fundraising asks (the 80/20 rule)How segmentation and targeted newsletters can boost engagement with specific audience groupsTips for creating effective fundraising emails during critical periods like year-end campaignsTo Learn More and Connect with Katelyn:KatelynBaughan.comKatelyn Baughan on LinkedInSupport the show
1/27/25 • 38:29
In this powerful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Ken Miller, whose life journey is nothing short of transformative. After overcoming a tumultuous childhood, addiction, and time in prison, Ken turned his life around to become a mentor and advocate for young Black men facing similar challenges. Ken’s story highlights the importance of self-belief, mentorship, and breaking through mental roadblocks to achieve personal growth.Topics We Cover:Ken Miller’s early life struggles and transformation from foster care to Dartmouth College.The impact of addiction and incarceration on Ken’s life and his eventual turning point.The pivotal moments that led to Ken’s recovery and new sense of purpose.The significance of mentorship, particularly within the Black male community.Challenges faced by young Black men, including the absence of father figures and societal pressures.The impact of gang violence and how respect and recognition play a role in youth behavior.Ken’s approach to mentoring, starting with the question, "What is your dream?"Key books and concepts used in Ken’s mentorship practice to foster self-esteem and trust.To Learn More and Connect with Ken:KenMillerSpeaks.comKen Miller on LinkedInThe Speed of Trust by Stephen CoveyThe Six Pillars of Self-Esteem by Nathaniel BrandenSupport the show
1/20/25 • 50:13
In this insightful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by Lacey Kempinski, a former fundraiser turned entrepreneur, to explore the evolving concept of work-life balance in the nonprofit sector. Lacey shares her personal journey of navigating motherhood while maintaining her career and the founding of Balanced Good, a company that supports nonprofit leaders, particularly women, with parental leave solutions. Topics We Cover:The challenges of balancing work and parenthood in the nonprofit sectorWork-life integration: Why it’s a more sustainable solution than work-life balanceHow nonprofit leaders can manage parental leave without causing burnout or resentmentThe importance of offering flexible work environments to reduce burnoutDifferences between parental leave policies in Canada vs. the U.S.The difficulties of filling senior roles temporarily during parental leaveThe importance of grassroots advocacy and systemic changes for better parental leave policiesCollaborating with organizations and policymakers to improve parental leave benefitsTo Learn More and Connect with Lacey:Lacey Kempinski on LinkedInBalanced Good on LinkedInBalancedGood.com@BalancedGood on InstagramSupport the show
1/13/25 • 35:36
In this special New Year episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by my niece Ruby for a refreshingly candid conversation about artificial intelligence, technology’s impact on jobs, and the possibilities of a utopian future.Ruby, a bright and curious sixth-grader, shares her concerns about robots replacing humans in the workforce and discusses her hopes for a world where people can pursue their passions without financial worries. Together, they dive into topics like Universal Basic Income, the ethics of AI-generated art, and what it might mean to live in a society without money.This engaging special episode blends thoughtful musings with a dash of youthful imagination - and next week we continue with our regularly scheduled episodes with the regularly scheduled format. Support the show
1/6/25 • 29:09
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Puneet Luthra, a government relations expert with a deep commitment to the nonprofit sector. Puneet discusses the critical role these relationships play in influencing policy, securing funding, and driving change on social issues. Drawing from his wealth of experience, Puneet provides practical advice on building strategic partnerships with government bodies, aligning nonprofit goals with public priorities, and fostering long-term, collaborative efforts to create lasting societal impact.Topics We Cover:Puneet’s journey into nonprofit-focused government relations and his early experiences with Big Brothers Big Sisters of CanadaThe importance of aligning nonprofit goals with government prioritiesHow nonprofits can influence public policy and secure funding through strategic government relationsNavigating the complex dynamics between nonprofits and government entitiesUnderstanding the motivations of high-net-worth individuals and government bodies to foster better relationshipsReal-world examples of nonprofit persistence in addressing long-standing societal issuesThe value of maintaining neutrality and avoiding partisan stances when engaging with the governmentPractical steps for nonprofits starting their government relations efforts, including identifying key stakeholders and reaching out to local representativesTo Learn More and Connect with Puneet:GovernmentRelations.caPuneet.Luthra@gmail.comSupport the show
12/23/24 • 50:21
In this insightful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Jarrett Ransom, affectionately known as "The Nonprofit Nerd," to discuss her passion for nonprofit work, her unique journey, and her philosophy on fostering wellness and abundance within the sector. Together, we explore the importance of moving away from scarcity-driven mindsets, embracing wellness in nonprofit organizations, and creating sustainable systems to support employees and communities alike.Topics We Cover:How Jarrett Ransom earned the title "The Nonprofit Nerd" and what it means to herThe early life experiences that shaped Jarrett’s passion for philanthropyWhy involving children in community service fosters lifelong habits of givingUnderstanding scarcity vs. abundance mindsets in nonprofit organizationsHow shifting to an abundance mindset impacts organizational culture and effectivenessThe connection between giving and personal well-being for individuals and teamsPractical ways to incorporate wellness initiatives into nonprofit workplacesTackling financial challenges and ensuring fair compensation for nonprofit employeesTo Learn More and Connect with Jarrett:Jarrett Ransom on LinkedIn@nonprofit_nerd on InstagramSupport the show
12/16/24 • 47:44
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I chat with Caroline Griffin about the transformative power of donor-centric messaging. Caroline shares her unique journey from aspiring Broadway performer to nonprofit professional, weaving together her passion for communication and storytelling. This conversation offers actionable tips for strengthening donor retention and deepening connections through thoughtful messaging.Topics We Cover:Caroline Griffin’s inspiring pivot from theater to nonprofit workWhat "donor-centric messaging" really means and how it goes beyond just using names in emailsThe 7:1 ratio of value-based communication to fundraising asks—and why it worksHow timing and planning can transform your nonprofit’s fundraising strategy.The power of open-ended questions like “Why did you donate?” in uncovering donor motivationsLeveraging AI tools to analyze donor data and draft impactful communicationsBalancing personalization with scalability as nonprofit donor lists growPractical tactics for engaging donors on social media, via SMS, and through emailTo Learn More and Connect with Caroline:Caroline Griffin on LinkedInE-Mail Caroline GriffinSupport the show
12/9/24 • 36:30
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we welcome Emma Cotner, co-founder of Learn and Earn, an inspiring initiative providing essential online education resources to Ukrainian refugee students affected by the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Emma discusses the program’s unique approach to supporting students aged 9-16 with critical resources like Chromebooks and internet access, the challenges of scaling, and plans for sustainable growth.Topics We Cover:The origin story of the Learn and Earn program and its mission to support Ukrainian refugeesHow Emma and her classmates identified a gap in educational resources for displaced studentsThe role of social media and Ukrainian influencers in scaling the program's outreachKey challenges in providing Chromebooks and internet access to refugee students in needThe significance of launch events in building community and teaching tech skillsFunding efforts, including an annual gala and individual donor contributionsScaling issues and the impact of a growing waitlist on program sustainabilityPlans for future expansion, including corporate partnerships and streamlined logisticsTo Learn More and Connect with Emma:Learn and Earn WebsiteContact Learn and EarnSupport the show
12/2/24 • 23:32
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Ben Freda, a former corporate lawyer turned nonprofit leader, to discuss his transformative journey into mission-driven work. We dive into the potential of AI in nonprofits, the ethical implications of advanced AI, and the steps organizations can take to harness technology for meaningful impact.Topics We Cover:Ben’s journey from corporate law to nonprofit consulting, and what fueled his decision to change careersHow an unexpected volunteer role inspired Ben’s passion for community-focused workThe current impact of AI on nonprofit operations, from automating tasks to boosting productivityWhy generative AI, like ChatGPT, is especially useful for small to medium-sized nonprofitsThe potential of predictive AI to improve donor management and fundraising strategiesChallenges that nonprofits face in adopting AI, particularly around data organization and costEthical considerations surrounding AI, including the potential risks of advanced general intelligence (AGI)A hopeful vision for the future, where AI enables nonprofits to focus on tasks requiring human connection and creativityTo Learn More and Connect with Ben:AI ConsultingBFCDigital.comEmail Ben@BFCDigital.comSupport the show
11/25/24 • 51:32
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I dive into an insightful conversation with Christina Edwards, a seasoned consultant specializing in nonprofit marketing and fundraising. Christina challenges nonprofits to embrace agility, risk-taking, and genuine connection to better reach and resonate with today's audiences.Topics We Cover: Christina’s journey from creative entrepreneur to nonprofit consultantWhy nonprofits often lag behind in digital marketing—and how to change thatIntegrating marketing and fundraising efforts to maximize impactUsing storytelling as a tool for effective donor engagementUnderstanding modern audience behaviors and adapting to their expectationsOvercoming organizational resistance to digital marketing innovationPractical tips for writing authentic, relatable nonprofit emailsFinding a balance between professionalism and personality in communicationTo Learn More and Connect with Christina:Purpose & Profit Club PodcastSplendid Consulting WebsiteSplendid Consulting on InstagramSupport the show
11/18/24 • 39:49
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Sheri Chaney Jones, a leader in impact measurement for nonprofits, to discuss how data-driven strategies can strengthen nonprofit credibility, improve program effectiveness, and increase funding opportunities. Sheri shares her "renaissance of relevance" framework, highlighting why nonprofits must embrace data not only for accountability but also for continuous improvement in serving their communities.Topics We Cover:Sheri's journey into data analytics and her passion for measuring nonprofit impactWhy the "renaissance of relevance" is essential for nonprofit credibilityHow nonprofits can benefit from data-driven decision-making, especially during economic downturnsExamples of how data exposed unexpected program outcomes, leading to crucial changesTechniques for measuring intangible outcomes like confidence and self-sufficiencyUsing dashboards and data visualizations to build a data-centric cultureCommunicating impact through a three-point story: activity, quality, and benefitsThe importance of leadership commitment to foster a culture of continuous improvement and transparencyTo Learn More and Connect with Sheri:SureImpact.comSheri Chaney Jones on LinkedInSupport the show
11/11/24 • 35:50
In this inspiring episode of Agents of Nonprofit, Alexander Lapa sits down with Aisha Addo, the visionary founder of Power to Girls, a nonprofit organization providing safe spaces and holistic support for Black and marginalized girls in Canada and Ghana. Aisha shares her personal journey, from overcoming societal expectations to establishing an organization that empowers young women through mentorship, skill-building, and mental health support. Topics We Cover:Aisha's journey from foster care to founder of a groundbreaking nonprofitHow a powerful moment in church sparked her mission to support marginalized girlsBuilding Power to Girls from a small gathering into an international nonprofitThe organization’s holistic approach: personal development, mental health, entrepreneurship, and leadershipHow mentorship plays a central role in the nonprofit’s impactAdapting programs to meet the specific needs and interests of participantsPractical advice for nonprofit leaders: documenting processes, building accountability, and staying mission-focusedLeveraging technology to connect girls with resources and mentors across bordersTo Learn More and Connect with Aisha:PowerToGirls.comPower Talks PodcastPower To Girls InstagramPower To Girls LinkedInSupport the show
11/4/24 • 42:50
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Candice Elliott, an expert in nonprofit employee wellness, to explore how organizations can better support their teams’ mental well-being. Candice shares insights on how nonprofits can enhance social infrastructure, offer meaningful non-monetary compensation, and adapt to evolving workplace dynamics like remote work, all while ensuring their teams thrive long-term.Topics We Cover:Candice’s journey from nonprofit board member to mental health advocateThe critical role of social infrastructure in supporting employees' well-beingHow nonprofits can offer non-monetary compensation like training and developmentBalancing remote vs. in-person work for diverse team needsStrategies for conflict resolution in a remote work environment"Regenerative practices" for long-term employee growth and avoiding burnoutThe mental health crisis in the workplace: why nonprofits need to take actionUsing employee surveys to identify stress points and improve workplace sustainability To Learn More and Connect with Candice:FortressAndFlourish.com@Back.Pocket.HR on InstagramThe Hearth PodcastSupport the show
10/28/24 • 45:43
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we're with Sean Kosofsky, an activist and nonprofit expert, to discuss the vital role employment contracts play in protecting nonprofit executives, especially Executive Directors. With practical advice on navigating contract negotiations, Sean highlights the importance of ensuring job security, avoiding board conflicts, and ultimately strengthening organizational stability.Topics We Cover:Sean's journey into activism and nonprofit workThe concept of "at-will" employment and its impact on the nonprofit sectorWhy employment contracts are less common in nonprofitsThe importance of contracts for nonprofit Executive DirectorsHow contracts protect Executive Directors from sudden termination and board conflictsMisconceptions about negotiating contracts while already employedStrategies for nonprofit leaders to showcase their value to the boardHow contracts benefit both nonprofit executives and their organizationsTo Learn More and Connect with Sean:Sign-Up for the Become Fireproof MasterclassThe Nonprofit Fixer WebsiteSupport the show
10/21/24 • 29:29
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Camesha Cox, the founder of The Reading Partnership, a nonprofit transforming the literacy landscape for marginalized families in Canada. Camesha shares her journey from working in the UK to establishing The Reading Partnership in Toronto, emphasizing the power of community-driven solutions in tackling literacy challenges. Through inclusive, family-centered programs, Camesha discusses how her organization is disrupting systemic barriers to literacy and helping children thrive.Topics We Cover:The origins of The Reading Partnership and its early success in TorontoHow literacy disproportionately affects Black, racialized, and low-income children in CanadaThe impact of interactive, play-based learning in early childhood educationScaling "Kids Read" from a local to a national literacy initiativeThe development of a French version of the Reading Partnership for Parents programThe vital role of community collaboration in overcoming literacy challengesEmpowering parents and educators to build lasting literacy skills in childrenHeartwarming success stories from families transformed by the Kids Read programTo Learn More and Connect with Camesha:The Reading Partnership Website@TRPNow on X (Formerly Twitter)@TRPNow on InstagramDonate to The Reading PartnershipSupport the show
10/14/24 • 43:53
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Holly Rustick, an expert in grant writing, to uncover her incredible journey from accidental grant writer to industry leader. Holly shares her inspiring origin story, which began in the aftermath of the 2004 Asian tsunami, and reveals how she turned a career born from necessity into a thriving business that helps nonprofits secure the funding they need. Topics We Cover:Holly's unexpected introduction to grant writing during the 2004 Asian tsunami recovery effortsThe evolution of her career from community development in Indonesia to freelancing internationallyThe dual roles of a grant writer: strategist and fundraiserWhy many nonprofits struggle with "50 hats" culture and how it affects grant successStrategies for involving volunteers, board members, or interns in the grant writing processTraining as a key motivator for potential grant writers in nonprofitsThe pros and cons of hiring a full-time grant writer versus outsourcing to a freelancerHow nonprofits can benefit from employees transitioning to freelance grant writersTo Learn More and Connect with Holly:GrantWritingandFunding.comGrant Writing and Funding WebinarThe Grant Writing and Funding PodcastSupport the show
10/7/24 • 48:23
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Eric Osuorah to unravel the transformative impact of artisanal marketplaces and the role of Web3 technology in their evolution. Eric, with his rich background in engineering, digital transformation, and philanthropy, provides a deep dive into how decentralized platforms are reshaping the way artisans connect with consumers. Topics We Cover:What are artisanal marketplacesCentralized vs. Decentralized MarketplacesWhy decentralized marketplaces are gaining traction, and what it means for artisans and consumersPotential downsides of decentralized platforms, including regulation and content controlHow decentralized marketplaces approach rule-setting and community involvementThe barriers to Web3 adoption and how to make it more accessible and user-friendly for everyday usersBuilding and Scaling Decentralized MarketplacesHow to create a unique value proposition and stand out in the decentralized marketplace spaceTo Learn More and Connect with Eric:Eric Osuorah on LinkedInAFOMA Marketplace WebsiteSupport the show
9/30/24 • 45:36
In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Maggie Kane, founder and executive director of A Place at the Table, Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can restaurant. Maggie shares the inspiring story behind the creation of the café, which offers a dignified dining experience for everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Learn how this innovative restaurant serves 200-250 meals daily through a model that blends volunteering, local sourcing, and a community-driven mission. Topics We Cover:How A Place at the Table’s pay-what-you-can model worksFostering community through dignified dining experiencesThe logistics of running a volunteer-driven restaurantCreative ways customers can support the restaurant's missionPartnering with local farms for fresh, seasonal ingredientsEngaging corporate sponsors to support a nonprofit initiativeOvercoming challenges in the restaurant industry as a nonprofitMaggie Kane's personal journey and motivation behind the mission of A Place at the TableTo Learn More and Connect with Maggie:A Place at the Table WebsiteA Place at the Table Facebook Visit A Place at the Table in RaleighSupport the show
9/23/24 • 32:04
In this inspiring episode of *Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Kenita Smith. Kenita candidly shares her journey, from the early misconceptions about nonprofit funding to becoming a grant-writing expert. She discusses the hurdles new nonprofits face when applying for grants, the importance of being "grant-ready," and how to build strong relationships with funders. Tune in for actionable insights on securing funding, sustaining a nonprofit, and the power of transparency in the nonprofit sector.Topics We Cover:Kenita's journey from single parent to nonprofit founderThe challenges of securing funding as a new nonprofitKey misconceptions about grant writing and 501(c)(3) certificationThe importance of data, impact stories, and sustainability in grant applicationsHow to become "grant-ready" and attract large foundationsBuilding trust with funders through transparency and honest communicationThe balance between restricted and unrestricted grants post-CovidMaximizing grant impact through collaboration and strategic partnershipsTo Learn More and Connect with Kenita:Starting My Nonprofit WebsiteStarting My Nonprofit InstagramStarting My Nonprofit FacebookSupport the show
9/16/24 • 40:45
