In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson unpacks how the experience economy is reshaping the way nonprofits engage and retain volunteers. 

Building on last week’s discussion about the evolving volunteer marketplace, Tobi explains why it’s no longer enough to simply offer opportunities — today’s volunteers expect meaningful, memorable, and transformative experiences. 

If you’re ready to meet modern volunteer expectations and create experiences that truly stand out, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! 

Full show notes: 184. The Experience Economy – Are Nonprofits Keeping Up? 

Experience Economy - Episode Highlights 

• [01:37] - Understanding the Experience Economy 
• [05:23] - The Evolution of Economic Value 
• [07:46] - Creating Quality Volunteer Experiences 
• [15:55] - Modern Examples of the Experience Economy 
• [18:04] - The Experience Economy in Nonprofits 
• [18:52] - The Market Metaphor in Volunteerism 
• [19:43] - Understanding Volunteer Motivations 
• [22:59] - Altruism and Empathy in Volunteering 
• [24:07] - Social Connection and Personal Development 
• [28:51] - Value Expression and Psychological Benefits 
• [32:40] - The Experience Economy in Volunteering 
• [34:46] - Episodic and Flexible Volunteering 
• [36:04] - The Ripple Effect of Volunteer Experience 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab 
• Volunteer Nation Episode 183 - The New Reality - Volunteers Don't Need You  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #118: 8 Ways to Make Volunteering Experiences Much Easier 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #147: Volunteer Recruitment Trends from Our New Report  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson tackles a bold question: has the volunteer–nonprofit relationship changed for good? 

As societal expectations and volunteer trends evolve, Tobi explains why today’s landscape looks more like a buyer’s market, where volunteers have countless options and expect meaningful, flexible, and well-designed experiences. She explores the rise of informal volunteering, the growing need for adaptable roles, and the impact of digital engagement on volunteer satisfaction. 

Discover why traditional volunteer management models no longer work and how nonprofits can create engaging, modern experiences that attract and keep the best volunteer talent to stay relevant in this new era of volunteerism. 

Full show notes: 183. The New Reality - Volunteers Don't Need You   

Volunteers - Episode Highlights 

• [01:25] - Understanding the Power Shift in Volunteerism 
• [05:38] - Trends in Volunteerism: Loyalty to Multiple Causes 
• [09:04] - The Rise of Informal Volunteering 
• [13:19] - Decline in Volunteering Rates 
• [20:12] - Increase in Remote and Online Volunteering 
• [23:31] - Challenges in Volunteer Application Processes 
• [27:32] - The Psychological Contract with Volunteers 
• [29:55] - Trends in Volunteerism and Society 
• [33:10] - The New Reality: Volunteers Have the Power 
• [34:14] - Digital Expectations and Volunteer Recruitment 
• [39:40] - Burnout and Overwhelm in Society 
• [42:43] - The Impact of Social Proof 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #173: Is Your Volunteer Website Turning People Away?  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #174: Write Volunteer Emails Volunteers Actually Read (and Love)  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #178: 6 Ways to Help Program Volunteers Avoid Compassion Fatigue  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson builds on her previous conversation about harmful volunteer policies by introducing eight transformative strategies to attract and retain passionate volunteers.  

From creating a welcoming environment and offering flexible commitments to tailoring screening to risk levels and delivering engaging, bite-sized training, Tobi covers practical ways to elevate your volunteer program. She also highlights the power of real-time recognition, fostering volunteer autonomy, supporting volunteers through life events, and maintaining vibrant alumni networks. 

Tune in for actionable insights that will help you energize your volunteers, cultivate loyalty, and create a culture of appreciation and engagement! 

Full show notes: 182. The 8 Game-Changing Policies That Make Volunteers Say WOW! 

Policies - Episode Highlights 

• [00:27] - Recap of Episode 181: 8 Policies Hurting Your Mission 
• [01:03] - Game-Changing Volunteer Policies 
• [03:38] - Policy 1: The Red-Carpet Welcome 
• [05:11] - Policy 2: Choose Your Own Adventure 
• [06:54] - Policy 3: Right-Sized Screening System 
• [07:58] - Policy 4: The Netflix Model of Training 
• [13:13] - Policy 5: Autonomy and Mastery Framework 
• [14:55] - Policy 6: The Recognition Revolution 
• [16:03] - Policy 7: Flexibility First Mindset 
• [17:39] - Policy 8: The Alumni Network Advantage 
• [20:00] - Final Thoughts and Implementation Tips 
   

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #181: The 8 Volunteer Policies That Are Killing Your Mission  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson uncovers eight common volunteer policies that could be hurting your mission. From poor first impressions and slow communication to overly complicated screening processes, inflexible commitments, dull training, micromanagement, lack of recognition, and difficult exit procedures, Tobi breaks down the pitfalls that can frustrate and disengage volunteers. 

You’ll get real-world examples of these challenges and actionable strategies for creating a more volunteer-friendly culture. Plus, Tobi shares a practical self-assessment checklist so your organization can identify problem areas and make improvements that boost volunteer engagement, satisfaction, and impact!  

Whether you’re running a small nonprofit or a large organization, this episode is packed with insights to help you retain and inspire the people who make your mission possible. 

Full show notes: 181. The 8 Volunteer Policies That Are Killing Your Misson 

Volunteer Policies - Episode Highlights 

• [04:40] - Volunteer Policy #1: The Terrible First Impression 
• [05:44] - Volunteer Policy #2: The Communications Black Hole 
• [06:33] - Volunteer Policy #3: The FBI Level Screening Process 
• [07:45] - Volunteer Policy #4: The Marriage Contract Commitment 
• [13:47] - Volunteer Policy #5: Death by PowerPoint 
• [17:11] - Volunteer Policy #6: The Micromanagement Trap 
• [18:31] - Volunteer Policy #7: The Recognition Vacuum 
• [19:53] - Volunteer Policy #8: The Exit Interrogation 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #164: Moving from Volunteer Compliance to Building Your Nonprofit Community  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #046: Save Time with Better Volunteer Management Systems 

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson explores smart, research-backed frameworks for designing meaningful volunteer service awards. Instead of relying on traditional recognition tactics, she shows how to align awards with what truly drives volunteers—their motivations, timelines, and the impact they create. 

Tobi introduces fresh ideas such as immediate recognition and milestone-based acknowledgements, while also breaking down six proven motivational factors that inspire volunteers. Packed with actionable strategies, this episode is a must for any organization looking to elevate its volunteer appreciation efforts and strengthen long-term engagement. 

Full show notes: 180. 3 Smart Ways to Design Volunteer Service Awards 

Volunteer Service Awards - Episode Highlights 

• [01:39] - Diving into Volunteer Appreciation 
• [03:13] - Strategic Volunteer Service Awards Frameworks 
• [07:01] - Aligning Awards with Volunteer Motivations 
• [21:53] - Recognizing Volunteers Through Timelines 
• [29:34] - Designing Awards Around Volunteer Impact 
• [33:16] - The Power of Handwritten Thank You Notes 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab  
• Volunteer Management Fundamentals Live!  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #176: Beyond Pizza Parties: Innovative Appreciation Ideas for Volunteers 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #024: The Best Volunteer Recognition is a Well-Run Program  
•  VolunteerPro Volunteer Thank You Letter Sample Cheat Sheet  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives into the topic of transformative service experiences with guests Frederick J. Riley, Executive Director of Weave the Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute, and Jackie Woven, Executive Director of Main Street Eureka Springs.  

They discuss practical strategies for building, growing, and scaling volunteer talent within communities, emphasizing the importance of local, relational, and mutual engagement. The trio explores how grassroots efforts, trust-building, and collaborative service can address community challenges and foster social connections. Jackie talks about the Main Street model, while Fred shares insights from the Weavers Network, offering listeners actionable steps for enhancing volunteer programs and community resilience. 

Full show notes: 179. Transformative Service Experiences with Frederick J. Riley and Jackie Wolven 

Transformative Service - Episode Highlights 

• [03:22] - Jackie's Journey into Nonprofits and Volunteerism 
• [04:29] - Frederick's Inspiring Story of Community and Volunteerism 
• [06:21] - The Importance of Volunteerism Today 
• [11:58] - Transformative Service: What It Means and Why It Matters 
• [13:58] - The Role of Virtual Volunteering and Hybrid Models 
• [17:41] - The Roots of Volunteering and Community Connection 
• [19:12] - Challenges and Opportunities in Measuring Volunteer Impact 
• [26:10] - Nonprofits vs. Corporate Models: A Discussion 
• [29:54] - Transforming Volunteer Programs: A New Approach 
• [32:33] - Embracing Fluidity in Volunteer Programs 
• [33:07] - Facilitation Skills for Volunteer Leaders 
• [34:48] - Encouraging Risk and Resilience 
• [35:54] - Aligning Volunteer Work with Community Needs 
• [37:06] - Empowering Volunteer Leaders 
• [40:08] - Building Community Through Service 
• [46:14] - The Weave the Social Fabric Project 
• [50:05] - Main Street Model for Community Engagement 
• [56:53] - Practical Tips for Community Building 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• Episode #164: Moving from Volunteer Compliance to Building Your Nonprofit Community  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #171: Practical Community Building Tips for Your Volunteer Team 
• Weave: The Social Fabric Project at The Aspen Institute 
• Weave Trust Map    
• Jackie's Website 
• National Main Street Center  
• Main Street Eureka Springs  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives deep into the critical issue of compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress among program volunteers. These frontline heroes play vital roles in tutoring, hospice, crisis support and more, but without proper training, boundaries, and support, they risk burnout and emotional harm. 

Tobi shares six practical ways nonprofit leaders can use to support volunteer wellness, from boundary-setting to debriefing practices and resilience training. 

Full show notes: 178. 6 Ways to Help Program Volunteers Avoid Compassion Fatigue 

Program Volunteers - Episode Highlights 

• [00:25] - What is Compassion Fatigue? 
• [05:20] - Recognizing the Signs 
• [09:15] - Emotional, Cognitive, and Physical Symptoms 
• [12:57] - Behavioral Changes and Deeper Shifts 
• [15:00] - Strategy #1: Set and Maintain Professional Boundaries 
• [16:11] - Strategy #2: Clear Policies on Client Boundaries 
• [22:15] - Strategy #3: Regular Debrief and Reflection Opportunities 
• [26:26] - Strategy #4:  Ongoing Skills and Resilience Training 
• [27:24] - Strategy #5: Access to Emotional Support and Resources 
• [29:40] - Strategy #6: Watch for Stress and Offer Respite Breaks 
• [32:22] - Final Thoughts 
   

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab  
• Volunteer Management Fundamentals Live!  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #035: 6 Ways to Prevent Burnout in Nonprofits  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives into the 7 common rookie mistakes non-profits make when managing volunteers and shares practical strategies to help volunteer managers reduce stress and rediscover the joy in their work. 

Tobi highlights the power of maintaining a positive mindset, setting clear boundaries, and focusing on community-building over paperwork. She also shares actionable tips for creating effective systems for delegation, engaging episodic volunteers for long-term impact, and prioritizing warm, relationship-driven recruitment strategies. 

Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer manager or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to make volunteer management more effective and more enjoyable. 

Full show notes: 177. Manage Volunteers Like a Pro: 7 Rookie Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 

Manage Volunteers - Episode Highlights 

• [03:45] - Rookie Mistake #1: Not Minding Your Mindset 
• [07:53] - Rookie Mistake #2: The Department of One Mentality 
• [13:00] - Rookie Mistake #3: Choosing Paperwork Over People 
• [16:39] - Rookie Mistake #4: Not Building a Community Before Asking for Volunteers 
• [22:41] - Rookie Mistake #5: Not Setting Clear Boundaries 
• [26:39] - Rookie Mistake #6: Focusing on Cold vs. Warm Recruitment 
• [28:27] - Rookie Mistake #7: Not Building and Documenting Clear Systems 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report 
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab 
• Volunteer Management Fundamentals Live! 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #003: Moving From a Scarcity Mindset to Abundance 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #168: Note to Nonprofit Execs – Supporting Volunteers is Everyone’s Job  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #164: Moving from Volunteer Compliance to Building Your Nonprofit Community 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #002: How to Recruit Volunteers by Building a Following First 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #126: 8 Ways to Empower, Not Rescue Nonprofit Employees & Volunteers 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #86: Converting Episodic Volunteers into Long-term Supporters 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #046: Save Time with Better Volunteer Management Systems  
• ChatGPT (great for developing volunteer policies and procedures) 

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the importance of strategic volunteer appreciation. Moving beyond traditional gifts and certificates, she explores how to recognize and value volunteers in ways that are meaningful and aligned with core human needs and organizational goals.  

Tobi provides 12 innovative appreciation ideas categorized into meeting volunteer needs for safety, connection, and purpose, and aligning with organizational goals such as program quality, DEIJ, and donor engagement. You'll learn how to create impactful and heartfelt recognition that sustains both volunteers and the mission of their organizations! 

Full show notes: 176. Beyond Pizza Parties: Innovative Appreciation Ideas for Volunteers 

Appreciation Ideas for Volunteers - Episode Highlights 

• [02:00] - Why Recognition Must Go Beyond Trinkets 
• [06:00] - Aligning recognition with Organizational Goals
• [14:10] - Aligning Appreciation with Organizational Goals 
• [15:00] - Mission Awareness: Mission Ambassador Awards 
• [16:00] - Recognition as a Change Management Strategy 
• [17:00] - Program Quality Champions: Rewarding Volunteer-driven Improvements 
• [18:00] - DEIJ Leadership Spotlights: Inclusivity & Serving Diverse Communities 
• [19:00] - Growth Catalysts: Celebrating Expansion & Innovation 
• [20:00] - Data Heroes: Connecting Volunteer Data to Grants, Funding, and Impact 
• [23:00] - Why Random Giveaways and Trinkets Don’t Work 
• [24:30 - The Bottom Line: Strategic, Meaningful Recognition 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report 
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #024: The Best Volunteer Recognition is a Well-Run Program 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #169: How to Meet 3 Core Volunteer Needs Right from the Start 

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives into why it’s time to move beyond traditional volunteer metrics like hours logged and retention rates. She unpacks the difference between outputs and outcomes, sharing practical examples and actionable strategies for measuring and showcasing the true impact volunteers have on communities and organizations.  

Tobi explains how tracking outcomes can inspire volunteers, improve program quality, strengthen recruitment messaging, guide strategic decisions, and demonstrate real value to stakeholders. You’ll also learn how to create visual graphics to communicate these outcomes! 

Full show notes: 175. Outputs vs Outcomes: Why Counting Hours Isn’t Enough 

Outputs vs Outcomes - Episode Highlights 

• [02:47] - Proving Volunteer Impact 
• [03:37] - Key Metrics to Track 
• [06:14] - The Importance of Outcome Metrics 
• [09:41] - Communicating Impact Effectively 
• [13:58] - Why Volunteer Outcomes Matter 
• [13:58] - Why Volunteer Outcomes Are Essential 
• [18:36] - Communicating Volunteer Impact 
• [22:24] - Improving Program Quality with Outcomes 
• [25:40] - Strengthening Recruitment Messaging 
• [28:42] - Supporting Strategic Decision Making 
• [31:53] - Creating Visual Impact Graphics 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #135: How to Use Video Storytelling to Connect with Aaron Walton and Emmanuel LeGrair  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at [email protected].