The Nonprofit MBA Podcast with Stephen Halasnik

In this episode of the Nonprofit MBA Podcast, host Stephen Halasnik spoke with Bryan Partee, an experienced nonprofit executive and founder of Nonprofit Marketplace. Drawing from more than two decades of frontline leadership and consulting experience, Bryan Partee shared in-depth insights on how nonprofits can strategically build and refine a high-performing grant system.

There's no doubt, many nonprofits are under intense stress and pressure following current Trump policies. Federal support is shifting. The donation boom of the COVID era is far behind us. And economic headwinds are picking up speed. Now, the big question is, how are nonprofits responding to the economic uncertainty? In today's podcast, Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discusses how nonprofits are responding under the Trump administration.

Just like in every aspect of life, the role of mentorship in nonprofit leadership and its impact can not be overstated. When nonprofit leaders truly understand what mentorship is, where to find the right mentors, and the unique power of peer-to-peer (lateral) mentorship, they lay a strong foundation for long-term success. In today's podcast, Deborah Heiser from The Mentor Project and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss the benefits of mentorship in nonprofit leadership.

Financial management might not be the most glamorous part of running a nonprofit, hence, many nonprofit leaders tend to overlook it. But it's one of the most critical. A lot of nonprofits struggle with sustainability, not because they lack purpose or passion, but because they do not pay attention to their financial health. Prioritizing nonprofit financial health means treating financial management as mission work. When you understand your numbers, you lead with purpose, plan with foresight, and serve your community with strength.

In today's podcast, Brooke Lively from Cathedral Capital and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solution (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss the numbers all nonprofits always need to pay attention to.

Breaking out of the restricted funding cycle isn't about chasing bigger checks or fancy strategies. It's about building an organization that funders believe in and communities rally around. When you start planning with partnership in mind, tell stories backed by solid data, treat your donor data like the treasure it is, and invite funders into honest, ongoing relationships, you set your nonprofit apart. Struggling with restricted nonprofit funding? In today's podcast, Yanyn San Luis from The Win Woman and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss breaking the restricted funding cycle: 3 game-changing approaches every nonprofit needs to know.

Marketing strategies for nonprofits don't have to be complicated or expensive. The key thing is to focus on clarity, consistency, and connection. Make sure your message is strong, use the right tools to amplify your voice, build relationships with media and supporters, and measure what matters. Most importantly, don't get caught up in trying to do everything at once. Choose one or two marketing strategies that align with your nonprofit's goals, and start there. In today's podcast, Leslie Smith from McCormick L.A. Public Relations and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss no-nonsense marketing strategies and public relations for nonprofits.

Passion draws people to nonprofit work, but strategy keeps them going. The best leaders combine heart with smart decision-making, ensuring their organizations not only survive but thrive. So, if you're leading a nonprofit (or thinking about starting one), remember that your passion is a powerful tool but only when paired with the right skills and mindset. With the right balance, you can turn good intentions into real, lasting change. In today's podcast, David Rhode from Dot Dot Org and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss why passion isn't enough in nonprofit leadership.

Burnout in the nonprofit world is real. It can lead to disillusionment, frustration, and even losing sight of why you started this work in the first place. But it doesn't have to be inevitable. Organizations can create environments where staff and volunteers stay motivated and engaged by building a culture of support, prioritizing well-being, and acknowledging the challenges of nonprofit work. In today's podcast, Jo Stone from The Balance Institute and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss burnout in nonprofits: why it happens and how to prevent it.

If you're searching for practical steps on how to grow a small nonprofit, start with mission clarity, strategic planning, understanding your donor profile, and financial sustainability. By refining your approach, strengthening partnerships, and leveraging digital tools, your organization can expand its reach and make a greater impact. With persistence and the right strategies, even the smallest nonprofit can achieve big results. In today's podcast, Ang Adamiak from Arts & Scraps and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss the keys to growing a small nonprofit.

Major donors give for a mix of personal and external reasons. Thus, some donate because they're deeply passionate about a cause, want to make a real difference, or feel a moral responsibility to give back. While recognition, tax benefits, or social connections influence others. Therefore, understanding these major donor motivations helps nonprofits build stronger, more meaningful relationships with donors. When organizations engage donors in a way that aligns with their values and goals, philanthropy becomes more than just a transaction—it becomes a lasting partnership that drives real change. In today's podcast, Courtney Laddusaw from Bristol Strategy Group and Stephen Halasnik from Financing Solutions (https://financingsolutionsnow.com/) discuss the motivations of major giving donors.