In this episode, Nancy and Sarah welcome Human Resources expert Skye Mercer to talk about what nonprofit people-- particularly "accidental HR managers" -- should be thinking about as we start 2021. Skye tells us why it is worth our time to get HR right, even if we are an all volunteer organization with no staff.… Continue reading Episode 17: Smart HR in Small Nonprofits
Author: Nancy
I work at the intersection of learning, nonprofits, and leadership. I am a teacher, instructional designer, and nonprofit person who has worn every hat possible. I regular write, speak, and consult on learning strategy, design, and leadership.
Episode 16: 2021 Nonprofit New Year’s Resolutions
In this episode, Nancy and Sarah reflect on what they learned in 2020 and make a few resolutions for the next year. They share some updates for the Nonprofit Radio Show, including a guest -- Skye Mercer-- joining us in January to talk about HR and a live show taking place February 19, 2021. Questions… Continue reading Episode 16: 2021 Nonprofit New Year’s Resolutions
Episode 15: Evaluation – Measuring What Matters
In this episode we talk about evaluation and how to measure what matters. With everything a nonprofit needs to do, evaluation is often an afterthought. Our funders expect us to gather data about what we do, so we count heads at our events or use surveys to get feedback. There are a few ways that… Continue reading Episode 15: Evaluation – Measuring What Matters
Episode 14: Why have a board?
In this episode we talk about the core purpose of a nonprofit board. We know that boards can be challenging. There is a certain about of tension that comes with having a group of people who don't know each other well making important decisions together. We start by underscoring why our nonprofits have boards and… Continue reading Episode 14: Why have a board?
Episode 11: Effective Online Meetings
In this episode we talk about online meetings and how to make them engaging and productive. We break down the key elements of a successful online meeting and give some tips on how to increase engagement. We know that nonprofit people spend a lot of time in meetings--board meetings, staff meetings, event planning meetings, etc.… Continue reading Episode 11: Effective Online Meetings
Episode 10: Good Programs as a Core Strategy
In this episode, we define what we mean by a "good program." We talk about how you know a program is good, and how you can leverage them as a core strategy to strengthen your board, collaborations, and fundraising. The episode is only 11 minutes long. Why not play it for your board and have… Continue reading Episode 10: Good Programs as a Core Strategy
Episode 6: Working with People: Compassion, Connection, and Culture
Whatever our mission is, ultimately our work is about people. We work with people, our boards are made up of diverse people with different interests, and we engage people as clients or participants in our programs. As we release this episode, many nonprofits are returning to work after being out of the office due to… Continue reading Episode 6: Working with People: Compassion, Connection, and Culture
Episode 5: What is your North Star? Finding Strategy
Imagine if everyone in your organization had their eyes on the same destination. That's what a strategy gives you. While a strategic plan too often sits on the self, a strategy gives you a practical tool to make decisions and move forward with your board and partners. Questions to reflect on before you listen: What… Continue reading Episode 5: What is your North Star? Finding Strategy
Episode 4: Making Space for Conversations about Racism
We recorded this episode the week of George Floyd’s funeral. We acknowledge the need to address what is happening in our communities today. We did not tape our usual banter about nonprofit topics. We took the week to be in conversation with each other and people in our communities on racism, privilege, and what we… Continue reading Episode 4: Making Space for Conversations about Racism
Episode 3: Engaging Your Board When You Can’t Meet
It is hard to get your board fully engaged in the best of times. How are you supposed to do it when you can't meet? Sarah, Nancy, and JoAnn answer that, sharing some tips on ways to bring your board together when they can't meet in person. If you follow some of these suggestions, you… Continue reading Episode 3: Engaging Your Board When You Can’t Meet