Inspiring Leadership Voices from The Nonprofit Exchange from 2025

Each episode of The Nonprofit Exchange highlights ideas that move leaders beyond management and into meaningful influence. The following curated insights are drawn from recent episodes of The Nonprofit Exchange, hosted by Hugh Ballou. These voices reflect diverse leadership contexts—nonprofit, entrepreneurial, servant, and transformational—yet each offers a timely reminder of what effective leadership requires today.

“Servant leadership is about aligning the heart and mind – true leadership comes from influence, not authority.”

— Kevin Wayne Johnson, “Leadership with a Servant’s Heart”

“Whether you’re making music or running a nonprofit, planning is the key to success.”

— Carter Fox, “The Sound of Strategy: Music Business Lessons”

“Culture is essentially the beliefs that govern how people behave.”

— Steve Gandara, “Unlocking Excellence: How Culture Drives Success”

“Achieving a seat on a corporate board requires intentional preparation and a clear plan.”

— Dr. Keith Dorsey, “Charting an Intentional Path to Corporate Board Service”.

“While our message remains timeless, our methods must change with the times.”

— Terry Modica, “Reaching Hearts in a Changing World”

“Leadership is an inside-out journey – if you don’t lead yourself, you can’t lead others.”

— Dr. Wayne ‘Lyte’ Brown, “Leadership from the Inside Out”

— Jeff Schreifels, “Building a Culture of Generosity”.

“Effective leadership comes down to character, competence, caring, and communication.”

— Tom Collins, “Leadership Mastery”

“Every computer we refurbish is a bridge across the digital divide.”

— Dylan Zajac, “Sustainable Solutions: Bridging the Digital Divide”

“Real change comes from lasting partnerships, not short-term fixes.”

— Nathan Walters, “Transformational Mission”

“Authentic leadership starts with knowing who you are.”

— Dr. Rick Rodriguez, “Breaking Barriers: Empowering the Next Generation”

“Effective communication requires active listening.”

— Michael Reddington, “Everyday Confessions: Disciplined Listening”

“When you heal and empower yourself, you can lead others from wholeness.”

— Dr. Lisa Cooney, “The Body of Change”

“You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

— Pankaj Singh, “Preventing Burnout Through Mindful Leadership”.

“We have to stop begging for donations and start building relationships.”

— James Meisner, “Transforming Fundraising."

“A joy-filled culture inspires engagement and creativity.”

— Heather M. Day, “Creating a Joy-Filled Culture”

“Real change means listening to the stories of those we serve.”

— Dr. Pierre Berastaín, “Leading Beyond the Buzzwords”

“Engage your board and they become your greatest allies.”

— Dr. A. Giselle Jones, “Engaging Your Board in Funds Sourcing”

“Life is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Keep running!”

— John David Graham, “Life is a Marathon. Keep on running!””

These insights remind us that leadership is not about control or charisma, but about clarity, character, and conscious influence. As the audience for this show, may these voices encourage you to lead with intention, humility, and courage.

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kevin Wayne Johnson, founder of the Johnson Leadership Group and a nationally recognized expert in servant leadership. With over 600 interviews under my belt, I was excited to delve into the transformative power of leadership that begins with serving others.

Kevin defines servant leadership as aligning the heart and mind, emphasizing that true leadership comes from a place of influence rather than authority. He challenges the misconception that kindness equates to weakness, highlighting the importance of compassion in leadership. We discussed how effective leaders can create environments where team members feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents.

Throughout our conversation, Kevin shared insights on the necessity of authenticity in leadership, stating that leadership is a lifestyle rather than a role we play at work. He emphasized the importance of mind-heart alignment, where leaders must balance competence with compassion to truly connect with their teams.

We also explored the critical role of communication in building trust and relationships. Kevin pointed out that effective communication requires active listening and the ability to ensure that messages are understood, not just heard. This is vital for preventing miscommunication and fostering a collaborative environment.

As we wrapped up, Kevin introduced his latest book, "Leadership with a Servant's Heart," which focuses on the role of leaders in shaping future generations, particularly within families. He underscored the challenges leaders face today, including navigating change and managing diverse generational perspectives in the workplace.

This episode serves as a reminder that leadership is not about titles but about the impact we have on the lives of others. I encourage our listeners to visit the Johnson Leadership Group's website to learn more about Kevin's work and resources. Thank you for tuning in, and remember to keep striving to create meaningful, lasting impact in your communities.

More about Kevin’s Work: https://thejohnsonleadershipgroup.com/

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Carter Fox, a multifaceted artist and strategist known as "The Soulful Traveling Spaceman Baseman." We explored the valuable lessons that nonprofit leaders can learn from the music business, including the importance of promotion, branding, and strategic planning.

Carter shared his journey from a young musician to a savvy entrepreneur, emphasizing the need to understand the business side of music early in his career. He highlighted that promotion is crucial for both musicians and nonprofit organizations, as it helps to amplify their messages and reach wider audiences. We discussed how nonprofits can effectively promote their initiatives and events, drawing parallels to how musicians prepare for album releases and tours.

Carter also introduced his book, "Music Business Basics," which provides practical strategies for independent artists and can be applied to nonprofit leadership. We delved into the significance of branding, noting that a logo is just one aspect of a broader brand identity that encompasses mission statements, values, and the overall voice of the organization.

Throughout our conversation, we touched on the importance of storytelling and demonstrating impact, as these elements are vital for engaging supporters and donors. Carter's insights on strategic planning resonated deeply, as he emphasized the need for leaders to map out their goals and involve their teams in the process.

As we wrapped up, Carter shared his upcoming projects, including a new album and a book exploring the connection between humanity and the cosmos. This episode is packed with actionable advice for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their impact while staying true to their mission. Thank you for joining us, and I hope you find inspiration in Carter's journey and insights!

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Crystal Gibson, the founder of The Authentic Alliance. Crystal is a leadership catalyst dedicated to helping mission-driven organizations foster cultures of courage, belonging, and sustainable impact. Our conversation centered around her core philosophy that authenticity, rather than perfection, is a leader's greatest asset.

We explored the challenges leaders face in being their true selves, particularly in mission-driven organizations where conformity can often overshadow individuality. Crystal shared insights on how leaders can practice vulnerability while maintaining confidence, emphasizing the importance of learning out loud and being present with their teams.

Crystal introduced her book, "Authentic Alliance: Empowering Sustainable Change in Complex Organizations," which serves as a practical guide for leaders navigating the complexities of organizational life. We discussed the alarming statistic that 74% of nonprofit staff report hiding parts of themselves at work, and how this pervasive issue stems from a fear of not aligning with the expected norms.

Throughout our discussion, we highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive environment where mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities rather than failures. Crystal shared her CHARM Method, which encourages co-creation, honoring existing processes, assessing situations, reflecting, and measuring what truly matters.

We also touched on the concept of "mask leadership," where leaders present a false persona, which can undermine team performance and well-being. Crystal emphasized the need for leaders to remove their masks and lead authentically, fostering a culture of collaboration over competition.

As we wrapped up, Crystal provided practical steps for nonprofit leaders to empower their teams, such as celebrating progress, sharing knowledge freely, rewarding collaboration, and normalizing the act of asking for help. She encouraged leaders to regularly revisit their goals and expectations to maintain alignment and clarity within their organizations.

For those interested in diving deeper into Crystal's work, I encourage you to visit her website, theauthenticaliance.com, where you can find resources, schedule a conversation, and learn more about her book. This episode is a valuable resource for any leader looking to navigate the complexities of organizational life while staying grounded in authenticity.

More about Crystal Gibson at https://theauthenticalliance.com

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Steve Gander, a seasoned expert in cultural transformation and leadership development. With over four decades of experience, Steve has worked with a diverse range of organizations, from Fortune 500 companies to nonprofits, helping them build high-performance, values-driven cultures.

We delved into the critical role of culture in organizational success, emphasizing that culture drives everything. Steve shared insights on how beliefs govern behavior, both individually and collectively, and highlighted the importance of understanding and measuring culture to foster excellence. He explained that many leaders unknowingly create barriers to a positive culture, often leading to defensive behaviors among their teams.

Steve also discussed the concept of "culture engineering," which involves a structured process to create and sustain high-performing cultures. He provided practical advice for nonprofit leaders, stressing the need for self-awareness and the importance of confronting the reality of their organizational culture.

As a takeaway, Steve encouraged listeners to utilize the resources available on his website, excellentcultures.com, particularly the MRI tool that helps organizations assess their current culture against desired benchmarks. This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable steps for leaders looking to transform their organizations and create a thriving culture.

I invite you to reflect on your own beliefs and behaviors as a leader and consider how you can take that first step toward cultural transformation. Thank you for joining us, and I hope you find this conversation as enlightening as I did!

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Pierre Berestrain, the incoming CEO of Safe Alliance in Austin, Texas. Safe Alliance is a leading organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence, as well as sex trafficking. Pierre's journey from being an undocumented immigrant from Peru to a prominent leader in the nonprofit sector has profoundly shaped his understanding of systems, power, and community care.

We delved into the concept of "Leading Beyond the Buzzwords," exploring what real systems change looks like in the nonprofit sector. Pierre emphasized that while program improvements address symptoms of social issues, true systems change requires a deeper examination of the root causes and the policies that perpetuate these problems. He highlighted the importance of integrating community wisdom into our approaches and the need for a mindset shift in how we view prevention and intervention.

Pierre also discussed the significance of dignity-centered and collective leadership, stressing that effective leadership is about creating conditions where staff can thrive and feel joy in their work. He shared insights on the power of storytelling in shaping cultural narratives around issues like gender-based violence and immigration, illustrating how narratives can either reinforce or disrupt harmful systems.

Collaboration emerged as a key theme, with Pierre noting that successful partnerships between nonprofits, government, and communities are built on trust, humility, and shared stewardship. He provided a compelling example of how Safe Alliance is working with the city of Austin to transform a hotel into an emergency shelter for survivors, showcasing the potential for civic engagement and investment in community well-being.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Pierre expressed his hope for the future, highlighting a shift in community perspectives towards safety and belonging. He believes that by focusing on building a supportive ecosystem, we can create conditions where individuals can live full, connected, and flourishing lives.

This episode is a call to action for leaders in the nonprofit sector to engage deeply, listen intentionally, and lead with courage, as we work together to transform lives and communities.

#NonprofitExchange #SystemsChange #Storytelling #Collaboration #Leadership #SafeAlliance

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In this episode of the Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Keith Dorsey, a leading expert in board governance, leadership readiness, and organizational strategy. Dr. Dorsey shared invaluable insights on the concept that board service is a journey rather than a mere checklist, emphasizing the importance of understanding the roles of management, advisory, and oversight within nonprofit boards.

We discussed common pitfalls that nonprofit leaders encounter when recruiting and onboarding board members, particularly the tendency to surround themselves with familiar faces rather than seeking individuals with the necessary skills and experience. Dr. Dorsey highlighted the need for leaders to ask the right questions and to be willing to make tough decisions about board composition to ensure strategic alignment.

A significant part of our conversation revolved around Dr. Dorsey's five forms of capital: human, social, cultural, directoral, and commitment capital. He explained how these capitals can be leveraged to enhance board effectiveness and drive organizational success. We also explored the concept of optimal diversity, which combines observable diversity with intentional diversity of thought, fostering richer discussions and better decision-making within boards.

Dr. Dorsey encouraged listeners to reflect on their personal "why" and to identify their unique strengths and values as they navigate their board journeys. He emphasized the importance of slowing down to think critically about board dynamics and strategic goals, rather than operating on autopilot.

As we wrapped up, Dr. Dorsey shared details about his book, "The Boardroom Journey," and the resources available on his website, boardroomjourney.com. I invited him to return for a follow-up discussion, as there is so much more to explore in the realm of effective board governance.

This episode is packed with practical advice and thought-provoking concepts that nonprofit leaders can apply immediately to strengthen their boards and enhance their organizations' impact. Be sure to check out the full episode for all the insights!

More about Dr. Dorsey at - https://www.boardroomjourney.com

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Terry Modica, co-founder and executive leader of Good News Ministries, a global organization dedicated to digital content creation and mission-driven outreach. Terry shared her inspiring journey of how Good News Ministries was born out of a deep passion for evangelization and education, sparked by her experiences in adult education and transformative workshops.

Terry recounted the pivotal moment when she and her husband felt called to move from New Jersey to Florida, where they encountered a community eager for the same mission they had envisioned. This led to the establishment of Good News Ministries of Tampa Bay, highlighting the importance of stepping up to a calling and taking risks in the pursuit of a greater purpose.

Throughout our conversation, we explored the challenges Terry faced in transitioning her vision into reality, including the need to adapt to new leadership styles and the importance of building a strong organizational culture. Terry emphasized the significance of treating people with respect and responding to their needs, drawing from her own experiences of frustration with unresponsive organizations.

We also discussed the role of technology in expanding their reach, as Terry embraced digital platforms early on, recognizing the potential of the internet to connect with a broader audience. She shared insights on measuring impact, not just through statistics but also by listening to the feedback from those they serve.

Terry's commitment to continuous self-improvement and her guiding principles as a servant leader were evident throughout our discussion. She underscored the importance of being adaptable and responsive to the needs of the community, which has been crucial for the sustainability of Good News Ministries.

As we wrapped up the episode, I encouraged listeners to reflect on their own visions, establish effective systems, and engage their communities to bring their missions to life. Terry's experiences and insights serve as a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we are dedicated to serving others.

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In this episode of The Non-Profit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Corey Poirier, an award-winning speaker, author, and founder of Blue Talks. Corey shared his journey and the inspiration behind Blue Talks, a global platform that merges business, life, and the universe, allowing individuals to discover their authentic voice and expand their influence.

We delved into the importance of authenticity in leadership, especially for nonprofit and faith-based leaders. Corey emphasized that authenticity is the new currency in leadership, as people crave genuine connections and transparency. He discussed how leaders can overcome the tendency to hide behind titles and instead foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

Corey also highlighted the significance of storytelling in effective communication. He addressed the common fear of public speaking, explaining that it often stems from the fear of the unknown. By preparing thoroughly and focusing on the audience rather than oneself, leaders can become more comfortable and impactful speakers.

We explored practical strategies for improving public speaking skills, such as joining organizations like Toastmasters or offering no-fee talks to local chambers of commerce. Corey shared his personal experiences and insights on how to build confidence and competence in public speaking.

As we wrapped up, Corey offered valuable advice on staying grounded and aligned with one’s purpose, including the creation of a personal mission statement. This episode is packed with wisdom for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their influence and create lasting change in their organizations.

I encourage you to check out Corey’s website, coreyporeamedia.com, and explore the resources available through Blue Talks. Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to our next conversation!

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Wayne Light Brown, the founder of Avoid Being Average. We delved into the theme of authentic leadership and purpose-driven success, exploring Dr. Brown's remarkable journey from artist to creative entrepreneur and leadership strategist.

Dr. Brown shared his roots in Harlem and the Bronx, emphasizing the importance of community and service in his life. He discussed how his experiences with graffiti and art therapy shaped his understanding of healing and transformation, leading him to create programs that support young entrepreneurs through his nonprofit, URISE.

A key focus of our conversation was Dr. Brown's principle of "reviewing results over reasons," which challenges nonprofit leaders to prioritize tangible outcomes over excuses. He highlighted the importance of revenue in sustaining nonprofit missions, urging leaders to embrace a mindset shift that recognizes the necessity of financial health for creating real impact.

We also explored the concept of living your true expression, which Dr. Brown defined as being authentic and transparent in leadership. He emphasized that authenticity is crucial for shaping organizational culture and fostering trust within teams.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Brown shared valuable insights on overcoming systemic barriers and unlocking potential in underserved communities. He encouraged leaders to practice vulnerability and transparency, reminding us that these qualities are essential for effective leadership.

As we wrapped up, Dr. Brown offered practical daily practices for aligning purpose with results, including the transformative exercise of morning pages, inspired by Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way."

I encourage our listeners to visit avoidbeingaverage.com to learn more about Dr. Brown's coaching and resources. Remember, the journey of leadership is an art form that blends structure, purpose, and authenticity. Thank you for joining us, and until next time, let's continue to make a difference in people's lives.

More about Dr. Brown at - https://www.avoidbeingaverage.com

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