The board-ED relationship is one of the most powerful partnerships in nonprofit work—when it clicks, everything flows. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah dig into what makes the board–ED relationship work—and why there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. They explore how the partnership shifts depending on an organization’s stage and an executive director’s needs, share real stories… Continue reading Rethinking the Board-Executive Director Relationship
Author: Bethany Nichols
End of Year Reflections
As 2025 wraps up, we're reflecting on what inspired us—and what's ahead. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah share five themes shaping nonprofit work right now. Community coalitions are sparking change. Advocacy is finding its voice. Board governance is having a moment. And new leaders are rewriting the story of what nonprofits really are: the… Continue reading End of Year Reflections
How to Assess Your Organization
Every so often, it’s important to pause and ask: How are we really doing? In this episode of the Nonprofit Radio Show, Nancy and Sarah explore practical ways nonprofit boards and staff can take stock of their organization’s health and direction. From classic tools like SWOT to strengths-based approaches like SOAR, and from balanced scorecards to simple dashboards and lifecycle models, you’ll hear how these… Continue reading How to Assess Your Organization
Budgeting for a New Year
Your budget is more than a spreadsheet. It's a map that guides your organization toward its goals and a mirror that reflects what you truly value. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore how to build a budget that aligns with your mission and sets you up for success in the coming year. They discuss why starting with values makes… Continue reading Budgeting for a New Year
8 Ways to Engage Your Board in Year-End Fundraising
Your board has so much heart for your mission. With a little inspiration, they can play a big role in your year-end fundraising success. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah share eight ways to help your board members get involved in year-end fundraising. From writing thank-you notes to sharing stories online, you’ll hear how small, personal touches… Continue reading 8 Ways to Engage Your Board in Year-End Fundraising
Imposter Syndrome
Stepping into leadership takes courage—and you’re right where you belong. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk about imposter syndrome—the voice that makes even the most capable leaders question themselves. They share why it shows up so often in nonprofit work and offer simple ways to quiet the doubt and lead with confidence. Question to… Continue reading Imposter Syndrome
The Lonely Executive Director
Leading a nonprofit can feel isolating at times—but it doesn’t have to stay that way. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore how Executive Directors can find connection, encouragement, and community in their work. From peer groups to healthy boundaries, you’ll discover practical ways to feel supported and re-energized in your role. Tune in for… Continue reading The Lonely Executive Director
How to Engage Your Board
Engaged boards don’t just happen—they’re built with intention. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore why some board members drift while others lean in, and what you can do to shift the balance. They unpack the four cornerstones of engagement—people, lens, structure, and conversations—and show how aligning them can spark real momentum. Listen in as… Continue reading How to Engage Your Board
Everyday Advocacy: Finding Your Voice to Influence Policy with Bethany Snyder
Advocacy isn’t just for experts—it’s for anyone who cares about their community and wants to make a difference. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk with advocacy expert Bethany Snyder about how every nonprofit—no matter its size—can build power and make change. You don't need to be in Washington, DC or hire a lobbyist to… Continue reading Everyday Advocacy: Finding Your Voice to Influence Policy with Bethany Snyder
Manipulation or Influence?
Manipulation or influence? It’s a question that stops many nonprofit leaders from using some of the tools of marketing and persuasion. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah unpack why the fear of being manipulative holds us back, and how we can reframe influence as an ethical, mission-driven tool. They explore how strategies like storytelling, priming,… Continue reading Manipulation or Influence?