Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall

Mission: Impact

Unpacked: Culture Chronicles

44:09

When a young Eva Kollisch arrives as a refugee in New York in 1940, she finds a community among socialists who share her values and idealism. She soon discovers ‘the cause’ isn’t as idyllic as it seems. Little does she know this is the beginning of a lifelong commitment to activism and her determination to create radical change in ways that include belonging, love and one's full self. In addition to Eva Kollisch’s memoirs Girl in Movement (2000) and The Ground Under My Feet (2014), LBI’s collections include an oral history interview with Eva conducted in 2014 and the papers of Eva’s mother, poet Margarete Kolllisch, which document Eva’s childhood experience on the Kindertransport. Learn more at www.lbi.org/kollisch . Exile is a production of the Leo Baeck Institute , New York | Berlin and Antica Productions . It’s narrated by Mandy Patinkin. Executive Producers include Katrina Onstad, Stuart Coxe, and Bernie Blum. Senior Producer is Debbie Pacheco. Associate Producers are Hailey Choi and Emily Morantz. Research and translation by Isabella Kempf. Sound design and audio mix by Philip Wilson, with help from Cameron McIver. Theme music by Oliver Wickham. Voice acting by Natalia Bushnik. Special thanks to the Kollisch family for the use of Eva’s two memoirs, “Girl in Movement” and “The Ground Under My Feet”, the Sophia Smith Collection at Smith College and their “Voices of Feminism Oral History Project”, and Soundtrack New York.…

il y a environ 24 jours 50:01

MP3•Maison d'episode

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:

Danielle Marshall

Culture Principles

Linktree

Draw Together with Wendy MacNaughton

Guardian US edition).

Week magazine

Heather Cox Richardson’s Letters from an American on Substack

How to survive the end of the world podcast with adrienne and Autumn Brown

The feminist survival project 2025 podcast

Dear White Women podcast

On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder which is available in a video series

The Sum of Us by Heather McGee

Decluttering Your Leadership by Judy Oyedele

Be in Touch:

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

💻 Give us feedback on the show

📚Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact

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

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

😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn

100 episodes

#Non-Profit #Business #Carol Hamilton #Boardofdirectors #Capacitybuilding #Changeagent #Impact #Innovation #Leadership #Mission #Nonprofit #Nonprofitleaders #Notforprofit #Organizationdevelopment #Progressive #Strategicplanning #Government #NGO

Mission: Impact

Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall

Mission: Impact

published il y a environ 24 jours

MP3•Maison d'episode

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:

Guest Bio:

Important Links and Resources:

Danielle Marshall

Culture Principles

Linktree

Unpacked: Culture Chronicles

Draw Together with Wendy MacNaughton

Guardian US edition).

Week magazine

Heather Cox Richardson’s Letters from an American on Substack

How to survive the end of the world podcast with adrienne and Autumn Brown

The feminist survival project 2025 podcast

Dear White Women podcast

On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder which is available in a video series

The Sum of Us by Heather McGee

Decluttering Your Leadership by Judy Oyedele

Be in Touch:

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

💻 Give us feedback on the show

📚Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact

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

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

😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn

100 episodes

Tous les épisodes

Mission: Impact

1
Holistic communications for nonprofits with Meghan Speer 34:33

il y a environ 10 jours34:33

34:33

In episode 118 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton talks with Meghan Speer about the concept of holistic communication within nonprofit organizations. They discuss: the importance of ensuring consistency and clarity across all communication channels to enhance donor engagement and confidence. insights into breaking down silos, fostering collaboration among internal teams, and how to map out donor touchpoints to deliver a seamless and human-centered experience. The conversation highlights the need for nonprofits to align their messaging with donor expectations, adopt a long-term view, and prioritize appreciation to build lasting relationships. Episode highlights: [00:07:00] Defining Holistic Communication [00:08:51] Real-World Impact of Communication Silos [00:12:30] Mapping Communication Touchpoints [00:18:30] Overcoming Campaign Fatigue [00:23:00] Understanding Donor Behavior [00:27:30] The Role of Gratitude in Donor Relationships Key Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders Foster collaboration by breaking down silos and ensuring everyone is on the same page. Think beyond immediate campaign results and adopt a long-term view of donor engagement. Invest in consistent, clear, and human-centered messaging across all communication channels. Show appreciation and follow up with donors to maintain trust and connection. Engage with everyday donors to gain valuable insights into their motivations and perceptions. Guest Bio: Meghan Speer serves as the Executive Director of Nonprofit Hub, a nonprofit educational site dedicated to providing excellent content and resources for those leading nonprofits. She is the host of the Nonprofit Hub radio podcast and has spoken at countless conferences and conventions helping leaders to craft holistic communication and donor strategies. For over 10 years, Meghan was with Marketing Support Network, serving in key executive roles focused on communications strategies that help organizations of all sizes grow and scale. Meghan lives in Pittsburgh, PA where she is active with many organizations serving her inner city neighborhood. Important Links and Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-speer55/ https://www.marketingsupportnetwork.com/ Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 📚 Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Grounded presence for nonprofit leaders in chaotic times with Danielle Marshall 50:01

il y a environ 24 jours50:01

50:01

In episode 117 of 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: Danielle Marshall Culture Principles Linktree Unpacked: Culture Chronicles Draw Together with Wendy MacNaughton Guardian US edition ). Week magazine H eather Cox Richardson’s Letters from an American on Substack How to survive the end of the world podcast with adrienne and Autumn Brown The feminist survival project 2025 podcast Dear White Women podcast On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder which is available in a video serie s The Sum of Us by Heather McGee Decluttering Your Leadership by Judy Oyedele Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 📚 Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Project management for nonprofits with Jami Yazdani 42:26

il y a 5 weeks42:26

42:26

In episode 116 of 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: Jami Yazdani https://yazdaniconsulting.com/ https://linktr.ee/yazdanicf https://yazdaniconsulting.com/impactful-blog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcWWX8w7MtE https://yazdaniconsulting.com/resources/2022/2/7/5-key-elements-worksheet Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 📚 Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Strategic thinking for nonprofits with Michael Butera 52:57

il y a 8 weeks52:57

52:57

In episode 115 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Michael Butera dive into the challenges and opportunities facing associations as they adapt to 21st-century realities. They talk about: The difference between strategic thinking and strategic planning Why acting like a three year old can be good for you (ask why five times in a row) How adaptability will be a key differentiator as to which organizations continue to grow and thrive. Episode Highlights: [00:10:05] Strategic Thinking vs. Strategic Planning [00:15:18] VUCA vs. BANI Frameworks [00:20:58] The Role of Membership in Associations [00:24:30] Governance Challenges [00:28:06] Foresight and Observational Practices [00:36:47] Adapting to Change [00:45:57] Building Sustainable Cultures Guest Bio: Michael Butera is a keynote speaker featuring Strategic Thinking, Innovate or Stagnate: Adapting 20th Century Traditions to 21st-Century Realities. Practice areas include governance, restructuring, strategic facilitation, foresight, and coaching. He is an expert partner at the Rogue Tulip Consultants, a Toastmasters, and a Certified Maxwell Leadership Team Speaking Coach and Mentor. Important Links and Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelabutera/ Association ActiVision, LLC https://www.michaelbuteraspeaks.com/ ASAE Drivers of Change: https://www.asaecenter.org/resources/asae-foresightworks The Heath Brothers (Author of Switch and other books) https://heathbrothers.com/ SCARF model: https://www.bitesizelearning.co.uk/resources/scarf-model-david-rock-explained#:~:text=The%20SCARF%20model%2C%20introduced%20by,take%20steps%20to%20mitigate%20these . BANI: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jeroenkraaijenbrink/2022/06/22/what-bani-really-means-and-how-it-corrects-your-world-view/ VUCA: https://executiveacademy.at/en/news/detail/bani-vs-vuca-how-leadership-works-in-the-world-of-tomorrow/ Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 📚 Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
[Re-release] Five Steps to Nonprofit Strategic Planning 20:05

il y a 9 weeks20:05

20:05

In episode 114 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton is re-releasing a favorite from last year. It includes: What strategic planning is and is not The five steps to a comprehensive strategic planning process The Keys to ensuring your plan gets put into action and stays relevant The five steps are 1. kick off, 2. discovery or listening tour, 3. explore, 4. decide, 5. plan & act Strategic planning: Strategic planning is a structured process for setting priorities for the medium term (3-5 years). It involves gathering insights from stakeholders, identifying themes, exploring futures, and making decisions to focus the organization’s future in service of its mission. What it is NOT It’s not about predicting or controlling the future. Just the document, it's about conversations that build alignment and shared understanding. It is not just a retreat Kick Off Setting yourself up for success Let everyone know what is happening and what is coming Pull together a team Equity considerations Discover Go on a listening tour Interviews, focus groups, surveys – what will work for you. How are you making participation accessible? Explore Share the current state as well as hopes and aspirations Explore the wider landscape and ecosystem for trends imagine new futures for the organization Decide Prioritize and decide on the future directions and goals: Where will you put your energy? Revisit your mission and vision – are they aligned with where you are going? Plan & Act Define action steps, success indicators, and feedback mechanisms. Keeping the Plan Fresh Agree on a process for reviewing and updating the plan Be in touch ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 🌟 Like what you heard? Please help share the podcast by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Gift basket for nonprofit leaders 19:22

il y a 13 weeks19:22

19:22

In this reflective episode of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton curates and shares a collection of "permission slips" for nonprofit leaders. These invitations, offered by previous guests, encourage leaders to: embrace self-awareness, humility, and the value of collaboration recognize that cultivating healthy organizational cultures and effective leadership requires intentionality, grace, and a willingness to grow lean into personal development and foster collective stewardship Investing in Self-Awareness - [00:02:15] Humility and Growth - [00:04:04] Creating Collaborative Cultures - [00:05:44] Boundaries in Mentorship - [00:08:07] Decision-Making Framework: The 10-10-10 Rule - [00:10:18] Collective Stewardship and Shared Responsibility - [00:12:50] Closing Reflections for 2025 - [00:17:00] Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 📚 Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Permission slips for nonprofit leaders 17:51

il y a 15 weeks17:51

17:51

In episode 112 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton shares several guests perspectives on the question: “what permission slip they would give to nonprofit leaders or what they would invite them to consider, to avoid being a martyr to the cause and as they work towards cultivating a healthier organizational culture.” Together they: Provide thoughtful, actionable advice to foster healthier, more sustainable, and inclusive organizational cultures. Explore why acknowledging your humanity and engaging in intentional self-reflection is key How collaborative team building help leaders avoid burnout, grow personally and professionally, and create a more lasting impact. Episode highlights: [00:02:00] Be Thyself [00:04:00] Acknowledge Humanity [00:06:00] Permission to Be Wrong [00:07:00] Take a Personal Retreat. These retreats help leaders maintain perspective and prevent burnout. [00:09:00] Build Other Leaders [00:11:00] Focus Your Efforts [00:13:00] Envision Abundance [00:15:00] Closing Reflection Important Links and Resources: Not Too Late – Rebecca Solnit Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 📚 Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
From Peer to Leader: Navigating Nonprofit Leadership Transitions. with Asila Calhoun 32:52

il y a 16 weeks32:52

32:52

In episode 111 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Asila Calhoun explore: The challenges nonprofit staff face when transitioning into leadership roles Managing difficult conversations: a key leadership skill Effective leadership in remote environments. Episode Highlights: [00:06:15] Common Challenges of New Leaders New leaders often struggle with delegation, managing former peers, and giving feedback. Asila discusses how these challenges stem from an inability to let go of tasks or set clear boundaries in new roles. [00:09:20] The Importance of Delegation Asila explains that delegation is not just about offloading tasks but creating growth opportunities for team members. She guides leaders to reflect on what prevents them from delegating and the negative consequences of not doing so. [00:013:20] Managing Peer-to-Leader Transitions Transitioning from peer to leader is difficult due to personal relationships. Asila advises setting clear expectations and professional boundaries to maintain effective leadership. [00:15:20] Preparing for Difficult Conversations Preparation is key for delivering feedback. Asila suggests narrowing down feedback points to be concise and effective, ensuring the conversation leads to productive outcomes. [00:18:15] Trends in Nonprofit Leadership: Burnout and Overwhelm Burnout and resource constraints are common among nonprofit leaders. Asila encourages leaders to set boundaries and focus on self-care, emphasizing that overextending oneself leads to diminished effectiveness. [00:20:30] Self-Care and Leadership Effectiveness Leaders need to protect their time for self-reflection and well-being to avoid burnout. Asila shares an example of a client who realized that sacrificing personal time led to lower performance and overall well-being. [00:21:15] Organizational Support for Mental Health Asila recommends organizations integrate self-care practices, such as meditation or ensuring employees take real time off, to foster a healthy work environment. [00:22:30] Remote Leadership While remote work has become more common, Asila stresses the importance of intentional leadership in a virtual environment. Leaders should ensure equity among team members, regardless of their physical presence, and make deliberate efforts to include remote staff in team dynamics. [00:26:00] Hybrid Work Models and Intentionality For hybrid teams, Asila suggests coordinating in-person time to foster collaboration, while being mindful of not creating biases against remote workers. [00:29:20] Investing in Leaders Asila's final message invites nonprofit leaders to invest in themselves through coaching and leadership development. This investment not only enhances their own leadership but also drives their organization’s mission forward. Guest Bio: Asila Calhoun, owner of Calhoun Coaching & Consulting, is a certified coach whose leadership and executive coaching practice focuses on partnering with new leaders through executives from a variety of professional backgrounds who are ready for change. Asila facilitates this change during one-on-one and group coaching sessions with her clients and through her consulting services of delivering leadership training, team facilitation, and diversity, equity and inclusion consulting, training and coaching. Asila has clients from several industries, including biotechnology/clinical research, healthcare, property management, and law, as well as leaders of non-profit organizations and business owners. Asila earned her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UC Berkeley. She is an Associate Certified Coach (ACC), and a Certified Inclusion Coach (CIC). Asila is also a certified meditation teacher. Important Links and Resources: https://linktr.ee/calhouncoaching Calhoun Coaching & Consulting Monthly Newsletter YouTube Related Episodes: Episode 51: Coaching visionary nonprofit leaders Episode 92: Three stages of nonprofit leadership Episode 103: Equitable nonprofit leadership Episode 107: Nonprofit leadership teams that work Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 📚 Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Who needs to be involved in Nonprofit Strategic Planning? 19:51

il y a 19 weeks19:51

19:51

In episode 110 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton discusses who should be involved in a nonprofit strategic planning process. She: Explores How a more inclusive approach that leverages diverse perspectives from both internal and external stakeholders Challenges the traditional top-down approach, Describes the role of each group of stakeholders in the process Episode highlights: Inclusive Strategic Planning [00:00:00] Carol begins by addressing a frequent question: Who should be involved in nonprofit strategic planning? She introduces the podcast's inclusive approach, encouraging organizations to assess their current position, envision a positive future, and identify steps to reach their goals collaboratively. Challenges with Traditional Strategic Planning Models [00:02:06] Carol critiques the traditional, top-down approach to strategic planning borrowed from the for-profit sector. She explains why this model is less effective in nonprofits, where ownership is collective and all voices matter. Defining Inclusive Strategic Planning [00:02:29] Carol explains her vision of inclusive strategic planning, which encompasses concentric circles of stakeholders. This approach brings in perspectives from staff, board members, beneficiaries, community members, partners, funders, and others. Benefits of Inclusivity in Strategic Planning [00:03:02] She outlines the benefits of an inclusive approach, such as stronger buy-in and access to a wider range of perspectives. Carol addresses leaders' concerns about managing multiple voices and emphasizes that inclusivity does not mean involving everyone at every stage. Key Stakeholder Groups in Strategic Planning [00:04:00] Carol discusses the roles of various stakeholders: the strategic planning task force, executive director, leadership team, board, staff, volunteers, and external voices such as donors, funders, partners, policymakers, and community representatives. Role of the Strategic Planning Task Force [00:04:58] The task force’s purpose is clarified as stewarding the planning process rather than making content decisions, a distinction that helps manage expectations and anxiety about influence. Engaging Internal Stakeholders [00:07:00] Carol stresses the importance of involving internal stakeholders, including staff from all levels, to gain insights into the operational realities of the organization. She shares various methods for gathering their input, such as interviews, focus groups, and surveys. External Stakeholders: Partners, Funders, and Experts [00:11:02] Carol describes the value of including external voices, including funders, partners, government leaders, and futurists, in the data-gathering phase. These stakeholders can offer insights into trends and broader environmental factors. Role of the Strategic Planning Consultant [00:11:41] She explains the role of consultants, like herself, in facilitating the process and providing an outside perspective, helping organizations to synthesize diverse insights into actionable themes. Synthesizing Insights into a Coherent Plan [00:13:06] After gathering data, Carol discusses the synthesis stage, where themes and commonalities are identified. This process benefits from an external facilitator manage this big project. Conducting Constructive Planning Sessions [00:13:43] Carol emphasizes the importance of involving a cross-section of staff and board members in planning sessions to make meaning from the data. She details facilitation techniques that encourage openness and productive discussions. Balancing Vision and Decision-Making [00:14:49] Carol explains how to prioritize initiatives based on factors such as mission alignment, community impact, and resource availability, using methods that make the planning process focused and achievable. Why Inclusive Nonprofit Strategic Planning works better [00:17:20] Carol wraps up by reiterating the importance of inclusivity in strategic planning. By embracing diverse voices, nonprofits can create a shared vision that is truly reflective of the community and fosters a stronger, more effective organization. Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Beyond the Retreat: Comprehensive Nonprofit Strategic Planning 13:32

il y a 20 weeks13:32

13:32

In episode 109 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton discusses the critical components of nonprofit strategic planning, emphasizing that it's much more than just a retreat. She highlights the importance of preparation, comprehensive stakeholder involvement, and continuous adaptation to ensure the strategic plan remains relevant and actionable. Hamilton underscores that nonprofits should consider a strategic planning process that includes pre-retreat work, stakeholder engagement, and post-retreat follow-through, fostering alignment between board members, staff, and the overall mission. The episode concludes by reminding leaders that strategic planning is an ongoing, adaptive process aimed at maintaining the organization’s ability to respond to changing circumstances while staying focused on its mission. Episode highlights: [00:00:00] Strategic Planning Beyond the Retreat Carol introduces the episode by discussing the common misconception that strategic planning is just about the retreat. She explains that a truly effective process requires more preparation and post-retreat follow-up for long-term success. [00:03:00] Why Do Strategic Planning? Strategic planning helps nonprofits step back to assess their current state, engage with stakeholders, and reconnect with the organization’s mission. The medium-term focus (3–5 years) creates a roadmap for growth and mission alignment. [00:05:00] Pre-Retreat Preparation: Data Gathering and Stakeholder Input Carol emphasizes the importance of gathering input from a diverse range of stakeholders before the retreat. This data gathering phase, often aided by an outside consultant, helps shape the strategic inquiry for a more informed and balanced planning process. [00:07:00] Involving Both Board and Staff in the Retreat Carol explains that involving both board members and staff (depending on the organization's size) leads to a more holistic understanding of the nonprofit and enhances buy-in for the resulting strategic plan. This inclusive approach ensures that the plan is grounded in reality and supported by key stakeholders. [00:08:20] Pitfalls of a Retreat-Only Approach If strategic planning retreats are conducted without adequate preparation, they risk creating disjointed goals that don’t align with the organization's actual capacity or needs. Carol cautions against generating “wish lists” that lack actionable steps for implementation. [00:09:00] Post-Retreat Follow-Through and Plan Implementation After the retreat, a smaller committee should refine the draft plan and ensure feedback from the larger group is integrated. Carol stresses the importance of setting shorter-term goals (quarterly, biannually) to ensure the organization remains agile and responsive to change. [00:11:00] The Dynamic Nature of Strategic Planning Strategic planning is not a static process. Carol advises that plans should be revisited regularly, with progress measured and adjustments made as new challenges arise. Having clear success indicators helps ensure the plan evolves along with the organization’s needs. [00:12:00] Embracing the Full Scope of Strategic Planning Carol concludes by reinforcing that the power of strategic planning lies in its ongoing nature, which allows nonprofits to remain adaptable and responsive while still focused on their mission. Leaders are encouraged to embrace this comprehensive process to boost both organizational impact and sustainability. Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show Find the books referred to on Mission: Impact 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

1
Nonprofit Success: Using Logic Models to Showcase Impact and Improve Organizational Alignment 21:15

il y a 22 weeks21:15

21:15

In episode 108 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton explores how nonprofit leaders can measure and map their organization’s impact through building out their theory of change and program logic models. I explain: That you already have a theory of change, even if it hasn’t been formalized. how making these models explicit not only helps funders and stakeholders understand the value of an organization's work but also aligns teams and improves programs. how organizations can better understand their programs, identify gaps, and articulate how their work drives meaningful change. How to practically put this into action Episode highlights: Every Organization Has a Theory of Change (Even If It’s Hidden) [00:02:32] - Hidden Theories of Change Carol emphasizes that every nonprofit already has a theory of change, even if it’s implicit. The challenge lies in making it explicit and shared across the organization to align efforts and strategy. [00:03:25] - Logic Models as Blueprints She explains how program-level logic models map out the necessary resources, activities, and expected outcomes, serving as blueprints for program implementation and evaluation. [00:04:49] - Building a Shared Vision Working together to create a Theory of Change and logic models not only reveals gaps in assumptions but also builds a shared understanding within the organization, strengthening cohesion. [00:07:12] - Practical Example: Watershed Organization Carol provides a concrete example of a local watershed organization, illustrating how they mapped out their programs in a logic model to address environmental education, citizen science, restoration, and policy work. [00:09:55] - Keeping Evaluation Simple She advises against overwhelming data collection, encouraging nonprofits to focus on a few key metrics that matter. This helps balance the workload and ensures meaningful learning from evaluations. [00:11:21] - Hypothesis Testing Carol describes the logic model as a hypothesis, where organizations can test assumptions and adjust programs based on data, making the process an opportunity for learning rather than a pass/fail exercise. [00:12:29] - Sharing Results with Stakeholders She highlights the importance of sharing results not only with funders but with all stakeholders, customizing communication based on the audience’s interests. [00:16:05] - Simplifying Program Evaluation Using the example of a peacebuilding nonprofit, Carol explains how she helped them streamline their evaluation process across different programs by designing a unified set of survey questions, enabling more effective data collection. [00:17:41] - Complexity of Systems Acknowledging the limitations of logic models, Carol encourages organizations to use them as tools to capture a slice of reality and proceed with realistic expectations. [00:18:56] - Encouragement to Invest in Evaluation Carol encourages nonprofits to invest time in building their Theory of Change and Logic Models, emphasizing that these tools help align strategies, reveal gaps, and strengthen program evaluation. Related Episodes: Episode 17 Program evaluation Episode 76 Getting clear on your theory of change Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Follow Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

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Nonprofit leadership teams that work with Kim Romain 39:25

il y a 25 weeks39:25

39:25

In episode 107 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton and Kim Romain discuss the intricacies of leadership in nonprofit organizations, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by executive teams. Romain emphasizes the importance of cultivating a collaborative, mission-driven leadership culture that avoids burnout and fosters a sense of belonging among team members. She highlights the critical role of self-awareness and the need for leaders to step back from day-to-day problem-solving to focus on visionary leadership. The conversation also explores the dynamics of competition within teams, the impact of leadership behavior on organizational culture, and the importance of creating supportive systems that align with the needs of individual team members. Episode highlights: The Role of Leadership Teams in Nonprofits [00:05:08 - 00:08:01] The unique role of leadership teams in nonprofits, emphasizing how these teams set the tone for the entire organization and the importance of operating with ease to avoid dysfunction and burnout. Challenges of Siloed Leadership Teams [00:08:01 - 00:010:04] The common challenge of leadership teams operating in silos, where department heads focus on their own areas without collaborating effectively as a team. This lack of collaboration can hinder the organization's overall impact. Benefits of Collaborative Leadership Teams [00:10:04 - 00:11:25] The benefits of a well-functioning leadership team, where members support each other, share ideas, and allow executives to focus on visionary leadership rather than day-to-day problem-solving. Self-Awareness and Leadership [00:012:00 - 00:15:00] The importance of self-awareness in leadership, encouraging leaders to understand their own strengths and challenges to better support their teams. The Impact of Competition and Misalignment [00:19:34 - 00:21:26] Competition within leadership teams, where department heads may compete for resources or recognition. Returning to Mission as a Compass [00:21:26 - 00:22:32] Leadership teams should consistently return to the organization's mission as a guiding compass to overcome competition and align their efforts with the organization's goals. Systemic Impact of Leadership Behavior [00:23:00 - 00:25:00] The behavior of leadership teams can have a systemic impact on the organization, influencing everything from staff retention to constituent engagement. She highlights the importance of addressing dis-ease within the leadership team to prevent broader organizational issues. Characteristics of a Healthy Leadership Team [00:27:36 - 00:29:08] What a healthy leadership team looks like, including collaboration, mutual support, and a shared commitment to the mission. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment where all team members feel valued. Cultivating a Healthier Leadership Culture [00:30:11 - 00:32:00] Practical advice for executive directors on how to cultivate a healthier culture within their leadership teams, starting with self-reflection and creating systems that align with the team's needs. Guest Bio: Kim Romain is a Life & Business Alchemist for visionaries, changemakers and paradigm shifters. With over 25 years of experience as an attorney, nonprofit executive, and artist, Kim is a catalyst for awakened leadership and creating a more just and equitable world from a place of centeredness and strategic alignment. As the founder of The Rising Visionaries and co-host of Kickass Career Conversations – now the Empowered and Embodied podcast, Kim fosters sustainable success and embodied leadership, inspiring purposeful action with ease, joy, and freedom. Important Links and Resources: Kim Romain Your Kickass Career Kim Romain - Life & Business Alchemist Related Episodes: Episode 46: Generous nonprofit leadership Episode 54: Best of nonprofit leadership transitions Episode 92: Three stages of nonprofit leadership Episode 100: 10 things I have learned from 100 episodes Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

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Next-Gen Leadership: Evolving Nonprofit Board Governance with Julie Patrick 37:35

il y a 26 weeks37:35

37:35

In episode 106 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton talks with Julia Patrick, a seasoned nonprofit leader and philanthropist. On the episode, Patrick shares her perspectives on the evolving challenges and opportunities in nonprofit board governance, emphasizing the importance of strategic board management, the integration of younger leaders, and the need for continuous training to foster board engagement and effectiveness. The discussion also covers innovative solutions such as board liaisons and board portals to streamline operations and enhance transparency. Patrick advocates for intergenerational collaboration and the adoption of the 10-10-10 rule for decision-making, which helps leaders prioritize actions based on their impact over time. Episode highlights: Challenges in Board Governance [00:05:45 The complexities of board service, the importance of mission achievement, and the uniquely American philanthropic spirit. Generational Shifts and Board Member Engagement [00:07:54] The demographic shifts affecting board membership, including the "silver tsunami" and the rise of next-gen leaders. She describes how younger leaders, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, approach board service differently, emphasizing data-driven decision-making and digital proficiency. The Role of Board Liaisons and Technology in Governance [00:12:27] The role of professional board liaisons and the use of board portals to manage documents and ensure transparency. She highlights the importance of these tools for efficient board operations, particularly for younger members. Effective Board Management Practices [00:16:29] The need for effective meeting management, and connecting board members to the organization's mission through ongoing training. Training and Development for Board Members [00:19:32] The importance of training board members not only on governance but also on the specific mission and operations of the organization. She suggests shadowing staff members as a way for board members to gain deeper insights. Intergenerational Collaboration and Board Dynamics [00:24:20] The conversation touches on the benefits of involving C-suite members in board meetings and the importance of intergenerational collaboration for the long-term health of nonprofit organizations. Recruiting and Retaining Younger Board Members [00:29:46 ] Strategies for recruiting and retaining younger board members, including the buddy system, soft skills training, and institutional knowledge transfer. The 10-10-10 Rule for Decision-Making [00:34:10] Patrick shares her "10-10-10" rule, a decision-making framework that considers the impact of actions over 10 weeks, 10 months, and 10 years, helping leaders prioritize and stay strategic. Guest Bio: Julia C. Patrick is the CEO of the American Nonprofit Academy and trains nonprofit leaders across the globe. At the onset of the global pandemic in 2020, Patrick launched The Nonprofit Show, the nation's only daily live broadcast. She and her team have produced more than 1,000 episodes and have been broadcasting now for 5 years! Important Links and Resources: Julia C. Patrick American Nonprofit Academy Building Board Champions: https://www.amazon.com/Building-Board-Champions-Activating-Impactful/dp/B0D58122XR Related Episodes: Episode 61: Impactful boards Episode 81: Being a co-leader with your board Episode 99: Elevating nonprofit governance and leadership Episode 102: The Nonprofit board’s duty of foresight Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 💻 Give us feedback on the show 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

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Building a healthier nonprofit sector - Part 2 33:12

il y a 28 weeks33:12

33:12

In episode 105 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton continues to celebrate her four year podiversary by reflecting on how nonprofits can create healthier and more sustainable organizational cultures. Through a series of guest responses, the episode explores the necessity of fair compensation, flexible work environments, and the importance of mental and physical health for nonprofit staff. It also touches on the exploitation of passion in the sector, the need for diversity and inclusion on nonprofit boards, and the importance of strategic foresight in nonprofit governance. The episode underscores the collective responsibility of nonprofit leaders to foster environments where staff and volunteers can thrive, with a focus on stewardship, progress over perfection, and creating roles that align with both organizational needs and individual aspirations. Episode highlights: [00:00:00] Imagining a healthier and more sustainable nonprofit sector Carol Hamilton reflects on the four-year anniversary of Mission Impact and introduces this curated episode series, focusing on how to envision a healthier nonprofit sector. She revisits questions from past episodes, asking how nonprofits can create a more humane and sustainable work environment. [00:04:00] The Importance of Staff Well-being Lauren Brownstein emphasizes the need for nonprofits to prioritize the health and well-being of their staff by providing fair compensation, benefits, and flexibility. She advocates for a culture that supports mental and physical health, starting from the leadership. [00:07:00] Passion Exploitation in Nonprofits Beth Sperber Ritchie uses the metaphor of a campfire to describe the exploitation of passion in the nonprofit sector, particularly among young professionals. She discusses the importance of organizational systems that allow staff to step back and avoid burnout. [00:12:00] Aligning Volunteer Roles with Mission Patton McDowell highlights the need to align volunteer roles with the mission and impact of the organization. He also stresses the importance of recognizing and appreciating volunteers, along with providing professional development opportunities. [00:15:00] Diversity and Inclusion on Nonprofit Boards Sabrina Walker Hernandez and Liz Scott discuss the ongoing challenges of diversity and inclusion in nonprofit leadership, particularly on boards. They call for accountability in creating inclusive cultures and emphasize the need for boards to reflect the communities they serve. [00:24:00] Strategic Foresight in Governance Jeff DeCagna challenges the traditional focus on leadership, advocating instead for stewardship and collective action. He argues for a shift from individualism to a shared sense of responsibility in guiding nonprofits into the future. [00:30:00] How to build a nonprofit sector we want Carol Hamilton concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to take intentional steps towards creating a healthier nonprofit sector. She urges leaders to model self-care, celebrate contributions, and prioritize progress over perfection. The episode ends with a call to action for nonprofit leaders to continue asking critical questions and challenging the status quo to build a thriving future. Important Links and Resources: BoardSource’s Leading with Intent: https://leadingwithintent.org/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-findings/ Be Well, Do Good, Self Care and Renewal for Nonprofit Professionals and Other Do Gooders https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/be-well-do-good-lauren-brownstein/1142829280 Related Episodes: Episode 42: Building shared governance Episode 55: Helping nonprofit boards move toward greater equity Episode 62: Healthy nonprofit organizational culture highlights, part 1 Episode 63: Healthy nonprofit organizational culture highlights, part 2 Episode 72: Exploring passion exploitation in nonprofit organizations Episode 85: Building equitable compensation frameworks for nonprofit organizations Episode 102: Nonprofit board’s duty of foresight Be in Touch: ✉️ Subscribe to Carol’s newsletter at Grace Social Sector Consulting 📚Check out the books that have been mentioned on Mission: Impact 💻 Give us feedback on the show 👥 Like what you heard? Please share the podcast with a colleague or friend 🌟 Help more people learn about Mission: Impact by leaving a rating & review. 😀 Connect with Carol Hamilton ➡️ LinkedIn…

Mission: Impact

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Progress over perfection, slowing down and joy - Envisioning a more humane nonprofit sector - Part 1 37:57

il y a 31 weeks37:57