In this insightful episode of Nonprofits Today, we’re joined by Deb Porter, founder of HOLD Business Solutions (Hearing Out Life’s Drama. No's on Life) and a champion of active listening as the foundation of all strong relationships—personal or professional.

Deb’s journey started with a Master’s degree in Care & Counseling and personal experiences as a caregiver and divorcee, ultimately leading her to create a practice that helps people be heard in a world that rarely listens. Her approach transforms workplace culture, leadership, and family dynamics alike.

We discuss:

• The CORE Framework for listening (Calm, Outcome, Relate, Empathy)
• Why only 2% of people are ever formally trained in listening
• The biggest communication pitfalls (like jumping in to “fix” things)
• How listening skills can build trust and reduce stress in nonprofits
• Her special “party trick” of guessing Myers-Briggs profiles in minutes!

Deb’s Key Message:

"We're taught in the American education system how to speak, but we are not taught how to listen until master's level."

Connect with Deb Porter & HOLD:

Website: www.hearingoutlifedrama.com

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

Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/hearingoutlifedrama

Facebook (Business): https://www.facebook.com/HOLDBusinessSolutions

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearingoutlifedrama

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hearingoutlifedrama

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HOLDListens

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.kr/holdlistener

Free Resource: “Freight Train Brain” guide to calm & clarity → Get it here: https://www.hearingoutlifedrama.com/FreightTrainBrain

Connect with Sarah Boxx:

Website: https://sarahboxx.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/

X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FSarahBoxx

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

Enjoyed this episode? Show your support:

LIKE this video to help others discover the power of listening

SUBSCRIBE for more actionable insights for nonprofit leaders

#leadershippodcast #NonprofitVoices #nonprofitimpact #LeadingNonprofits #SustainableNonprofits #nonprofitleadership 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.