The Influential Nonprofit

Elise Woodworth: Getting The Best From Your Board

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Struggling with a passive or confused board? In this episode, you’ll learn how to transform tension into clarity, turn board members into passionate advocates, and use thoughtful questions to unlock real leadership and fundraising support.

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Many board-staff problems trace back to a lack of clarity between governance and operations, and defining that line can immediately relieve tension.
  • Framing conversations and changes around what the organization needs, rather than what any one person needs, helps boards step into true leadership.
  • When board members are equipped to speak passionately about the mission, their personal connection, and the impact, fundraising becomes a natural next step instead of a scary task.
  • Simple tools like annual board self-assessments and clear expectations can dramatically improve accountability and long-term engagement.
  • The fastest way to shift board culture is to ask more thoughtful, open-ended questions that invite ownership instead.

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    “Being able to define and articulate and clarify what the board's role is, and teach that to them, and then have them hold themselves to the expectation, can really lighten up a lot of load on the executive director and staff.”

     

    “When you start with a mission-focused approach, you lead with the mission every time. It’s my golden rule: lead with the mission."

     

    “If you want engaged board members who are going to roll their sleeves up and get to work... then you have to mirror that energy from the beginning."

    - Elise Woodworth

     

    Elise Woodworth is a national speaker and board relations coach known for her clarity‑driven approach to strengthening nonprofit boards. A VMI graduate, Air Force Veteran, and MBA, she is the author of Business, Not Battle and creator of The Four Champions model. If you’re looking to grow or develop your board, Elise is the person to call.

    Elevator Pitch Exercise

    https://www.betterwithwe.com/championselevatorpitch

    Reach out to Elise Woodworth at:

    Website: https://www.betterwithwe.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisewoodworth/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Elise-Woodworth-Speaker-Author-Consultant/61561521157037/

    YouTube: @betterwithwe

    Instagram: @businessnotbattle

     

     

     

    Let’s Work Together to Amplify Your Leadership + Influence

    1. Group Coaching for Nonprofit Leaders

    Want to lead with more clarity, confidence, and influence? My group coaching program is designed for nonprofit leaders who are ready to communicate more powerfully, navigate challenges with ease, and move their organizations forward.
     

    2. Team Coaching + Training

    I work hands-on with nonprofit teams to strengthen leadership, improve communication, and align around a shared vision. Whether you’re growing fast or feeling stuck, we’ll create more clarity, collaboration, and momentum—together.
     

    3. Board Retreats + Trainings

    Your board has big potential. I’ll help you unlock it. My engaging, no-fluff retreats and trainings are built to energize your board, refocus on what matters, and generate real results.



    Get your free starter kit today at www.theinfluentialnonprofit.com


    Connect with Maryanne about her coaching programs:

    https://www.courageouscommunication.com/connect

     

    Book Maryanne to speak at your conference:

    https://www.courageouscommunication.com/nonprofit-keynote-speaker

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    The Influential NonprofitBy Maryanne Dersch
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