The Catalyst Podcast

Navigating Chaos with Agile Leadership: a Conversation with Conlon Public Strategies

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We are joined by Kevin Conlon (Founder and President) and Linda Shapiro (Executive Vice President) of Conlon Public Strategies (PS) to discuss the need for agile leadership in today’s volatile, rapidly changing landscape.  Conlon PS is a strategic advising firm dedicated to advancing the good work of nonprofits and businesses. We discuss: 


  • Conlon's work supporting nonprofit health and human service organizations and arts organizations. 
  • The strategic plan that has helped Chestnut successfully navigate through COVID and the present-day uncertainties. 
  • The challenges faced by non-profit organizations relying on state, federal, and city funding. 
  • The value of connecting similar organizations to complement/amplify each other's work.
  • Leadership’s role in maintaining morale and transparent communication during difficult times, the need for optimism to be grounded in credibility, and for leaders to hold themselves accountable. 
  • How to enhance effectiveness when working with board committees and non-board advisory groups.  
  • Conlon’s advocacy work and the importance of visibility, consistent engagement with elected officials, identifying and educating champions, and building relationships to strengthen organizational influence.
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