Next Era Non-Profit

One of the biggest problems facing nonprofit boards today is disengaged board meetings that feel like a waste of time to board members. Join us for this week's episode where we will break down why boards are increasingly disengaged and what you can do to change that! With my proven ENGAGE Method we will transform board meetings into your strongest tool for leadership, clarity, and energy.

If you have any questions surrounding board engagement or are interested in an in-depth program walking you through building better board practices, reach out at [email protected]!

In this week's episode, we are joined by Dr. Russell Wigginton, CEO of the National Civil Rights Museum, to explore how nonprofit leaders can cut through the noise and lead with clarity, courage, and conviction by getting back to basics. Drawing on his years of experience in academia, advocacy, and the museum world, Dr. Wigginton brings a unique perspective to our conversation as he speaks to how this approach has impacted his decision-making, team-building, and even the approach he takes to larger issues.

What if the task you keep avoiding isn't a burden, but a doorway to clarity and freedom?

In this week's episode of Next Era Nonprofit, we're going to liberate you from what's holding you back by addressing the things we've been avoiding. And, in doing so, we will open up the space, time, energy, and possibility to accomplish the goals we have set. I share the Face It. Feel It. Free It. method to help you take action on that lingering task that’s draining your energy and slowing your momentum.

Whether you're avoiding a tough board conversation, a strategic decision, or just that pesky email, this episode is a nudge to do the thing — and feel the relief that follows.

What do nonprofit leaders need to unlearn to move forward? In this lively and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Ruth Abigail Gardner—Executive Director of AngelStreet Ministries and host of The Unlearnt Podcast—to dig into the habits, beliefs, and expectations that no longer serve us (and maybe never did).

We talk about the obvious stuff (like perfectionism and over-functioning), but we also get into some trickier, more taboo territory. It’s a fun, honest conversation full of real talk about what it actually takes to lead well in today’s nonprofit world—and what we might need to let go of to do it.

Ruth Abigail brings energy, wisdom, and humor, and she isn’t afraid to think out loud about her own leadership journey and the sector as a whole. You’ll walk away reflecting on your own “unlearning list.”

To hear more from Ruth Abigail Gardner, listen to the Unlearnt Podcast! And also, check out the work that Angel Street does by visiting their site or on social media @angelstreetmemphis! 

You’ve probably felt it: the stress of leading a nonprofit where the demands far outweigh the resources. It’s not just frustrating—it’s unsustainable.

In this episode, I unpack a powerful definition of stress—“more demands than resources”—and walk you through a 5-step approach to rebalance the equation. We’ll explore how to set boundaries, shift expectations, and reduce the weight of competing priorities so you can lead with clarity and protect your energy.

Not every idea or every donation deserves a place on your to-do list.

✨ Ready to reduce the demands and focus your time, energy, and budget on what truly drives impact?

That’s exactly what I do with leaders during a Strategic Refresh Intensive—a one-day deep dive to create a clear, adaptive plan for the year ahead. You’ll walk away with a roadmap that ensures your resources go where they matter most.

📩 Email me at [email protected] when you’re ready to balance the equation.

You don’t need a 6-month planning process—just one powerful day.

Nonprofit leadership often feels like an endless cycle of putting out fires—but what if you could build a future where fewer fires even start? In this episode, we explore how to move beyond crisis response and reclaim your time, energy, and vision for long-term impact. We dive into strategies such as:

• Triaging the urgent from the important
• Protecting your strategic thinking time
• Building a leadership environment and team

that will give you the clarity you need to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

Resources

• Contingency Planning Template 🔗: https://katie-s-site-4eb4.thinkific.com/courses/copy-of-succession-planning
• Non-Profit Leadership Edge Mastermind Group: Email [email protected]

Nonprofit leaders are navigating one of the most uncertain times we’ve ever seen—funding challenges, shifting policies, and increasing community needs. In times like these, you can’t afford an unengaged board.

In this episode of Next Era Nonprofit, I sit down with Hardy Smith, author of Stop the Nonprofit Blame Game, to discuss why now—more than ever—your board must be fully engaged and actively helping you lead. We cover:

✔️ The biggest reasons boards disengage—and how to fix it

✔️ How to create a culture of accountability and shared leadership

✔️ What nonprofit leaders can do to activate their board during uncertain times

✔️ How to get your board to step up, contribute, and help drive strategy forward

Your board isn’t just there to approve budgets and attend meetings—it should be a powerful asset in leading your nonprofit through change and uncertainty.

Connect with Hardy on LinkedIn, and get his book, Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game!

Courage isn’t something you have—it’s something you practice. Nonprofit leaders face tough decisions, difficult conversations, and high-stakes moments every day. But the real challenge? Stepping into those moments with courage.

In this episode, we explore:

✔️ Why courage is a learned skill, not a personality trait

✔️ The common fears that hold nonprofit leaders back

✔️ Practical ways to strengthen your courage muscle in leadership

✔️ How showing up boldly and authentically transforms your board, team, and organization

If you’ve ever hesitated to ask for what you need, speak up in a tough moment, or take action despite uncertainty—this episode is for you.

If you’re looking for strategies to get a hold on what’s happening and proactively prepare your organization for what’s ahead, this conversation is for you.

Nonprofit leaders are facing mounting uncertainty—federal funding shifts, economic instability, and growing scrutiny on the sector. But instead of waiting for challenges to escalate, now is the time to take action.

In this episode of Next Era Nonprofit, I sit down with nonprofit risk management expert Ted Bilich to talk about what you can do right now to strengthen your organization and navigate uncertainty proactively. We cover:

• Why waiting is one of the biggest risks nonprofits face
• How today’s anti-nonprofit rhetoric is shaping public trust and funding
• Practical steps to identify and manage risks before they become crises
• The board’s role in navigating uncertainty and strengthening governance
• Why storytelling, advocacy, and collaboration are more important than ever

Tune in for insights and actionable steps to help you take control of what’s next.

About Ted

Ted Bilich is the CEO of Risk Alternatives, a firm dedicated to helping non-profits assess risk and develop long-term sustainability strategies, and author of the book  Managing Your Nonprofit for Resilience. With his expertise in risk management and sustainability, Ted brings a unique perspective to the current landscape that many nonprofit leaders find themselves in. Keep up with Ted by visiting his site or connecting with him on LinkedIn!

What does it take to lead a nonprofit in today’s ever-changing world? According to Derwin Sisnett—nonprofit founder, board member, and successful entrepreneur—it’s all about embracing your entrepreneurial mindset. In this episode, Derwin, founder and CEO of Adaptive Commons, shares insights from his experience leading and balancing innovation with mission-driven work. Are we all born entrepreneurs? Embracing your entrepreneurial spirit can truly strengthen your organization and drive sustainable change. 

About Derwin

Derwin Sisnett is the founder and CEO of Adaptive Commons, a real estate company focused on transforming civic spaces for social good. With a background spanning social impact businesses, education, and community development, Derwin brings a unique perspective on how to drive lasting change. Connect with Derwin on LinkedIn and learn more about his organization at adaptivecommons.com.