A leadership transition is one of the most pivotal moments a nonprofit will ever face. It involves far more than simply finding the next executive director. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk through how organizations can navigate this change in a way that actually makes them stronger. Good transitions take time, intention, and thoughtful… Continue reading Leadership Transition
Category: Boards
How to Have an Effective Board Meeting
What if your board meetings were the most energizing hour of your month? Too often, board meetings become routine report-outs instead of spaces for real governance, strategy, and alignment. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah break down how to design meetings that are inclusive, purposeful, and focused on the conversations only the board can have.… Continue reading How to Have an Effective Board Meeting
Rethinking the Board-Executive Director Relationship
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
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
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
The Most Important Financial Report for Your Organization Right Now
Nonprofit finances feeling uncertain? You’re not alone. In this episode, we shine a light on one financial report that every small nonprofit should be using right now: the cash flow statement. Join Nancy and Sarah as they unpack why understanding your organization’s cash flow matters more than ever, especially in today’s turbulent funding environment. They’ll… Continue reading The Most Important Financial Report for Your Organization Right Now
Planning for Succession
Succession planning isn’t just about replacing a leader—it’s about sustaining an organization’s mission through change. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk about why every nonprofit should have a plan for the transition of staff and board leaders, including both expected or unexpected changes. From practical steps to mindset shifts, we explore how to approach… Continue reading Planning for Succession
How Boards Can Be a Source of Strength in Uncertain Times
We have entered turbulent times for nonprofits. A strong board can be the steady hand that keeps a nonprofit on course. It can offer clarity and connection when things feel uncertain. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah dive into how boards can stay mission-focused, support their organizations, and strengthen community ties during these challenging times.… Continue reading How Boards Can Be a Source of Strength in Uncertain Times
How to Stress Test Your Nonprofit
Nonprofits are continuing to face existential challenges. How do we continue to achieve our mission through changes in administration and shifts in funding? Stress testing helps nonprofits respond to risk and stay resilient by asking "What if?" questions that identify potential challenges before they become crises. Stress testing is not about predicting the future. It's… Continue reading How to Stress Test Your Nonprofit
Practical Ideas for Inspiring Board Members to be Mission Ambassadors
In this episode, Nancy and Sarah share practical ways to help your board feel confident sharing your mission.