Nonprofit Nook

In this episode of The Nonprofit Nook, Wendy sits down with nonprofit leader and marketing strategist Anh Nguyen to unpack the advice that always gets people's attention: "Don't start another nonprofit."

Before you assume they're against new nonprofits, hear them out. Wendy and Anh explore why passion alone isn't enough to build a sustainable organization, why a 501(c)(3) is a tax designation—not a business model—and how aspiring founders can make a greater impact by doing their homework before filing paperwork.

Together, they discuss common misconceptions about nonprofit startups, the growing challenge of nonprofit saturation, the importance of market research, and why collaboration with existing organizations may create more impact than launching something new. If you've ever dreamed of starting a nonprofit—or know someone who has—this conversation offers the practical questions every founder should ask before taking the leap.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why Anh always says, "Don't start another nonprofit."
• The biggest myths about launching a nonprofit.
• How to determine whether your idea truly fills a gap.
• Why nonprofits should be run like businesses.
• When collaboration creates more impact than competition.
• The questions every founder should answer before applying for 501(c)(3) status.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering starting a nonprofit and wanting to build an organization that is both impactful and sustainable.

Resources

Anh’s LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/AnhTNguyen170

Wendy’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendykidd/

Amplified Marketing - https://www.instagram.com/amplifiedmktgtx/

Boss Level Engaged Services: https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/

Podcast Home: https://thenonprofitnook.com/

The NonProfit Nook on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

Perplexity.ai - https://perplexity.ai

Families to Freedom - https://www.familystofreedom.org

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and episode overview

07:10 Guest introduction: Anh Nguyen and her background

08:43 Why Wendy and Anh discuss the realities of nonprofits

09:23 Common misconceptions about starting a nonprofit

12:20 The importance of market research and collaboration

13:46 Understanding nonprofit saturation and competition

16:14 The necessity of a solid business plan and legal setup

21:58 The role of ego and collaboration in nonprofits

24:37 When is the right time to start a nonprofit?

33:03 Key question: What is the goal of your nonprofit?

35:07 Final thoughts and encouragement for prospective founders

keywords

nonprofit, starting a nonprofit, nonprofit tips, nonprofit collaboration, nonprofit planning, nonprofit saturation, nonprofit board, fiscal sponsorship, nonprofit impact

Mentioned in this episode:

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Summary

In this conversation, Wendy Kidd and E. Jeff Serrano discusses the nuances of corporate engagement for nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of building meaningful partnerships rather than merely seeking donations. He shares insights on how nonprofits can prepare for corporate partnerships, leverage in-kind contributions, and maintain long-term relationships with corporate sponsors. Jeff also highlights the evolving landscape of corporate philanthropy and offers actionable steps for nonprofits to strengthen their corporate engagement efforts. Throughout the discussion, he stresses the significance of communication, patience, and understanding the corporate giving process.

Takeaways

Engagement is more than just fundraising; it's about building partnerships.

Nonprofits should have a designated person for corporate outreach.

In-kind contributions can be as valuable as cash donations.

Maintaining communication with corporate partners is crucial.

Nonprofits need to understand the corporate giving cycle.

Research potential corporate partners to align missions.

Patience is key in corporate fundraising efforts.

Feedback from corporate partners can improve nonprofit strategies.

Nonprofits should be specific about their needs when approaching corporations.

Building trust with corporate partners takes time and effort.

Resources

Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ejeffserrano360corporateengagement/

https://360corporateengagement.com/

Boss Level Engaged: https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/

Podcast Home: https://thenonprofitnook.com/

The NonProfit Nook on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Technical Glitches and Podcasting Challenges

03:00 The Importance of Corporate Engagement

06:03 Building Meaningful Partnerships with Corporations

08:49 Key Elements for Nonprofits Before Approaching Corporations

11:59 Leveraging In-Kind Contributions

14:59 Maintaining Long-Term Corporate Relationships

17:59 Understanding Trends in Corporate Philanthropy

21:02 Actionable Steps for Strengthening Corporate Engagement

23:54 Starting Corporate Partnerships from Scratch

27:03 The Joy of Fundraising and Corporate Engagement Consulting

30:10 360 Degree Corporate Engagement Consulting Overview

33:04 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Mentioned in this episode:

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In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd is joined by Andrew Lee from First United Bank to discuss the importance of cultivating strong relationships between nonprofits and their banks. With nearly 18 years of banking experience, Andrew highlights key benefits and strategies for nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of open communication and understanding the organization's needs. He also shares practical advice on financial management, internal controls, and common mistakes to avoid. This episode provides valuable insights for nonprofit leaders seeking to strengthen their financial foundation.

Links:

Andrew’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-l-b360892b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

00:00 Introduction to Open Communication in Nonprofits

00:21 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook

01:05 Introducing Andrew Lee from First United Bank

01:50 Building Relationships with Your Banker

03:54 Benefits of Having a Go-To Banker

06:09 Common Mistakes Nonprofits Make

13:34 The Importance of Internal Controls

18:24 Key Moments to Consult Your Banker

18:54 The Role of Community Banks

20:13 Identifying Green Flags in Banks

21:38 Purpose in a Pocket: First United's Community Commitment

23:04 The Importance of Nonprofit-Banker Relationships

29:04 Supporting Small Nonprofits

30:32 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

32:31 Conclusion and Contact Information

Mentioned in this episode:

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In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd welcomes back Kendria Taylor, a learning and development expert with over 20 years of experience. Kendria shares her insights on the importance of perception for nonprofit leaders, particularly focusing on the perceptions of Executive Directors by the public, board members, and staff. The discussion covers strategies for aligning personal behavior with organizational mission, improving communication, and developing empathy. Kendria also offers practical advice for Executive Directors and boards facing conflicts, emphasizing the need for honest self-assessment and structured communication. Listeners are encouraged to consider how they are perceived and to address any issues with a proactive and empathetic approach. Wendy also notes that the podcast will take a brief hiatus over the holidays, returning on January 6th.

https://www.tg8solutions.com

https://www.instagram.com/thekendriataylor/

https://www.instagram.com/tg8solutionsinsight/

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

00:00 Introduction to the Rumor Mill

00:30 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook

01:18 Meet Kendria Taylor: Learning and Development Powerhouse

02:23 Discussing Feedback and Generational Workforce

03:38 Diving into Perception in Nonprofits

08:54 Empathy and Leadership in Nonprofits

12:19 Balancing Frontline and Office Work

15:29 Effective Board Management

19:11 Addressing Perception Issues

20:14 Naming and Taming Emotions

21:16 Empathy in the Workplace

22:23 Addressing Board and ED Conflicts

25:21 Communication and Generational Differences

27:51 Assessing Board Impact and Engagement

30:11 Perception and Public Image

35:05 Final Thoughts and Listener Engagement

35:36 Holiday Announcement and Sign-Off

Mentioned in this episode:

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Navigating Bookkeeping for Nonprofits: Tips, Tools, and Best Practices

In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd is joined by Kelsey Gleason, co-owner of Educated Bookkeeping, to explore the distinct challenges and strategies of bookkeeping for nonprofits versus for-profit businesses. They discuss the importance of understanding financial reports, customizing chart of accounts, and the significance of training and quality control for volunteer bookkeepers. They also cover practical tips on selecting a professional bookkeeper, using QuickBooks features like classes and projects, and highlight a crucial financial metric every nonprofit board should monitor. The episode aims to provide real tools and strategies to help nonprofit leaders and boards manage their finances more effectively.

Links:

https://www.educatedbookkeeping.com

https://www.instagram.com/educatedbookkeeping/

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

https://www.instagram.com/thenonprofitnook/

00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Bookkeeping

01:28 Meet Kelsey Gleason: From Teacher to Bookkeeper

02:05 Challenges of Nonprofit Bookkeeping

05:03 Advice for Small Nonprofits Without a Bookkeeper

05:49 Training and Software Recommendations

10:27 Hiring a Professional Bookkeeper

18:59 Understanding Financial Reports

22:08 QuickBooks Tips and Tricks

26:33 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

30:37 Conclusion and Farewell

Mentioned in this episode:

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In this episode of 'The NonProfit Nook,' host Wendy Kidd and guest Kendria Taylor, a learning and development expert, delve into the importance of creating a culture of feedback within nonprofit organizations. They discuss the definition and the significance of providing various types of feedback: reinforcing, redirecting, impact, and reflective. Kendria shares practical models such as the 'GOOD' model for effective feedback and provides strategies for personalizing feedback based on communication styles. The episode emphasizes that consistent, thoughtful feedback can build trust, enhance morale, and boost organizational performance. Kendria also offers listeners free tools to improve their feedback approaches, making this episode an invaluable resource for nonprofit leaders aiming to strengthen their teams and retain top talent.

Links:

https://www.tg8solutions.com

https://www.instagram.com/thekendriataylor/

https://www.instagram.com/tg8solutionsinsight/

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

00:00 Introduction to Active Listening

00:23 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook

01:09 Meet Kendria Taylor

02:45 The Importance of Feedback

09:21 Types of Feedback

13:40 Developing Your Team with Feedback

19:14 The Importance of Ongoing Feedback

19:49 Creating a Culture of Feedback

20:25 Introducing the Good Model

21:54 Breaking Down the Good Model

24:21 Giving Feedback to Leaders

27:34 Understanding Communication Styles

30:31 Reflective and Empathetic Listening

33:16 Free Resources and Conclusion

Mentioned in this episode:

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Maximizing Impact: Inside the Communities Foundation of Texas and North Texas Giving Day

In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd converses with Heather Lothes, Donor Relations Officer at the Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT). The discussion focuses on the role and impact of CFT in North Texas, emphasizing its efforts to support local nonprofits and philanthropic activities. They delve into the details of North Texas Giving Day, a significant regional initiative designed to boost donations and awareness for local nonprofits. Heather shares insights on how nonprofits can maximize their success on this day and the ongoing support CFT provides throughout the year. Listeners are encouraged to participate and spread the word to enhance community support and philanthropy.

Links:

CFT Website: https://www.cftexas.org/

North Texas Giving Day website: https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/

Social Handles - CFT: communitiesfoundationoftexas, NTGD: northtexasgivingday

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

00:00 Introduction to Community Foundations

00:58 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook

01:42 Meet Heather Lothes

02:43 Understanding Communities Foundation of Texas

05:18 North Texas Giving Day: Origins and Impact

08:03 Maximizing North Texas Giving Day

11:44 Upcoming Events and How to Get Involved

14:05 The Broader Impact of North Texas Giving Day

15:22 Riding the Wave of North Texas Giving Day

16:34 Maximizing Success on Giving Day

17:41 Leveraging Your Network and Resources

19:38 The Power of Follow-Up

22:29 Beyond North Texas Giving Day: CFT's Year-Round Impact

22:40 CFT's Multifaceted Support for Nonprofits

25:28 CFT's Role in Community Crises

25:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mentioned in this episode:

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In this episode, Wendy Kidd and Amy Jackson explore the importance of brand strategy for nonprofits and purpose-driven organizations. They discuss how a clear, authentic, and actionable brand foundation can simplify decision-making, improve consistency, and enhance community engagement.

resources

Amy's website: https://www.brandisnota4letterword.com/

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyjdesigns/

Follow Amy on Insta: @brandisnota4letterword

Amy's podcast: https://www.brandisnota4letterword.com/podcast

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

keywords

brand strategy, nonprofit branding, brand audit, brand guide, community building, brand consistency, purpose-driven branding

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Consistent Branding for Nonprofits

09:36 Building a Strong Brand Foundation for Nonprofits

12:30 The Importance of Brand Hierarchy

15:21 The Brand Audit Process

19:19 Understanding Competitive Research and Audience Journey

24:25 Creating a Living Brand Guide

30:14 When to Consider a Brand Refresh

33:20 Budget-Friendly Branding Solutions

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In this insightful interview, Gabriela Norton, a strategic HR expert supporting nonprofits, shares practical strategies for building healthy workplace cultures, managing HR challenges, and implementing effective performance management. Discover how nonprofits can create sustainable, people-first environments with limited resources.

keywords

Nonprofit HR, workplace culture, performance management, employee engagement, HR policies, leadership, organizational development

key topics

• HR challenges in nonprofits
• Performance management best practices
• Building a healthy workplace culture

resources

People Performance Resources - www.pprhr.com

Connect with Gabriela - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielanorton/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/people-performance-resources-llc/

https://www.instagram.com/ppr_hr

https://www.facebook.com/pprhr

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) - https://www.shrm.org/

Dallas HR Chapter - https://dallashr.org/

https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

https://thenonprofitnook.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit HR Challenges

02:37 Common HR Issues in Nonprofits

05:46 Establishing Clear Expectations

08:47 The Importance of Job Descriptions

11:51 Creating an Employee Handbook

14:34 Performance Management Best Practices

17:42 The Role of Leadership in HR

20:41 Building a Healthy Workplace Culture

23:47 Resources for Nonprofits

26:37 First Steps for Improvement

29:32 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

39:35 Introduction to Leadership Development Toolkit

40:32 Accessing HR Tools and Templates

Mentioned in this episode:

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summary

Luke Mickelson shares his inspiring journey from small-town farm kid to founder of Sleep in Heavenly Peace, scaling a nonprofit that has delivered over 350,000 beds to children in need. He discusses the origins of his mission, the challenges of scaling, founder syndrome, and practical advice for nonprofit growth and leadership.

key topics

The origin story of Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Scaling a nonprofit from local to global

Founder syndrome and leadership challenges

The importance of vulnerability and self-awareness in leadership

action items

Visit shpbeds.org to learn more and find your local chapter

Start a chapter or donate to support beds for children in need

Take the Founder Syndrome assessment at lukemickelson.com

Join the upcoming Founder Syndrome Survival Course

resources

Sleep in Heavenly Peace Website - https://shpbeds.org

Follow Sleep in Heavenly Peace - https://www.linkedin.com/company/shpbeds/posts/?feedView=all

Founder Syndrome Survival Course - https://lukemickelson.com/fss-course

Connect with Luke - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shpluke/

Follow Luke - https://www.instagram.com/lukemickelson/ , https://www.facebook.com/SHPLuke

Boss Level Engaged Services: https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnook

Podcast Home: https://thenonprofitnook.com/

The NonProfit Nook on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged

keywords

Nonprofit, Founder Syndrome, Scaling Nonprofits, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Leadership, Social Impact, Community Service, Nonprofit Growth, Founder Challenges, Leadership Evolution

Mentioned in this episode:

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