281: Ask a Funder: Crucial Insights for Nonprofit Success (Cathryn Dhanatya)

SUMMARY

Are you struggling to secure the funding your nonprofit needs, unsure if your proposals are hitting the mark or if your leadership approach is holding you back? In episode 281 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Cathryn Dhanatya shares invaluable advice for nonprofit leaders navigating the complexities of fundraising and leadership. With experience on both sides of the funding process, Cathryn highlights the common mistakes organizations make when submitting proposals. She emphasizes the critical role of relationship-building, clear communication, and developing a strong team to secure large-scale donations. Cathryn also dives into strategies for demonstrating a "return on impact" to funders, showcasing how nonprofits can measure success and make a compelling case for support. For those aiming to lead with confidence, she also discusses the significance of inclusive leadership and servant leadership, offering practical insights for building an effective organizational culture. 

ABOUT CATHRYN

Cathryn is Co-founder and President/CEO of Growing Good Inc., a professional services firm that partners with non-profit organizations and companies who aim to do good in the world. Cathryn has previously held key C-suite executive positions and board director and advisory positions for organizations in the areas of research, higher education, and across the non-profit sector tackling complex social issues from healthcare, education, diversity and gender equity, microfinance, green technology, and food insecurity. She has lived and worked on five continents; earned her Ph.D. in Social Science and Comparative Education from UCLA; and has led and conducted research on media and technology as it relates to health issues around the globe. She has been a keynote speaker at several international and domestic conferences, events, trainings, and featured in numerous media outlets.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Gravitas: The 8 Strengths That Redefine Confidence by Lisa Sun
• Learn more about Cathryn and the work done at Growing Good
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

280: 3 Characteristics of a Great Nonprofit Leader (Jeffrey Abramowitz)

SUMMARY

Are you struggling to balance mission-driven leadership with the practical demands of scaling your nonprofit AND keeping your team motivated and engaged? In episode 280 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Jeffrey Abramowitz shares his powerful journey from trial lawyer and incarceration to nonprofit leadership, and explores the three essential characteristics that define great leadership in the sector: listening, learning, and engaging. Drawing from his personal experiences, including time spent in federal prison, Jeff illustrates how education and workforce development can create life-changing opportunities for marginalized individuals. 

ABOUT JEFFREY

Jeffrey Abramowitz, J.D is the CEO of the Petey Greene Program. He was previously the ED of Justice Partnerships and served as the ED Reentry Services for JEVS Human Services and the Program Director of Looking Forward Philadelphia Reentry Program. Prior to his tenure at JEVS, Jeff was the Director of Workforce Development for the Community Learning Center and successfully completed a fellowship with Justleadership USA. Jeff proudly sits on the Executive Board of the Coalition on Adult Basic Education, COABE, where he serves as Secretary, and chairs the State Advocates for Adult Education Fellowship Program. Jeff was appointed to the Pennsylvania Reentry Council and serves as Chairman of the Employment Committee and Co-chairs the Reentry Committee for the PA Workforce Development Board. Jeff is the current Chair of the Philadelphia Reentry Coalition and was recently appointed to the Montgomery County Pennsylvania Public Defender’s Association Advisory Board. Jeff is a subject matter expert for the US Department of Education, is the Moderator for the US Department of Education LINCS (Literacy Information and Communication System, Resource Collection) Community of Practice on Correctional and Reentry Education and has worked on the Integrated Education and Training (IET) in Corrections Project.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• The Second Mountain: How People Move from the Prison of Self to the Joy of Commitment by David Brooks
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire 

279: Digital Transformation: A New Era for Nonprofit Leaders (Beth Kanter)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders embrace the opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI) while navigating the ethical challenges it presents, all without losing sight of the human-centered mission at the heart of their work? In episode 279 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Beth Kanter, a seasoned expert in nonprofit technology, delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. She offers a nuanced perspective on adopting AI in a way that enhances human-centered work, improves productivity, and upholds organizational values. Beth also shares her journey to becoming a leading voice in nonprofit tech, emphasizing the importance of empathetic leadership, ethical AI use, and maintaining workplace well-being. Whether you're leading a small nonprofit or a large organization, this conversation will provide valuable strategies for integrating technology without compromising the human touch that defines effective nonprofit work.

ABOUT BETH 

Beth Kanter is an internationally recognized thought leader and trainer in digital transformation and well-being in the nonprofit workplace. She is the co-author of the award-winning Happy Healthy Nonprofit: Impact without Burnout and co-author with Allison Fine of The Smart Nonprofit.  Named one of the most influential women in technology by Fast Company and recipient of the NTEN Lifetime Achievement Award, she has over three decades of experience in designing and delivering training programs for nonprofits and foundations. As a sought-after keynote speaker and workshop leader, she has presented at nonprofit conferences around the world to thousands of nonprofits. Learn more about Beth at www.bethkanter.org.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal Newport
• Learn more about Beth here at Beth Kanter.org
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Re

278: 3 Barriers to Nonprofit Strategic Planning (Chris Wong)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders shift from simply surviving to strategically thriving in an environment filled with resource constraints and external pressures? In episode 278 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Chris Wong delves into the intricacies of strategic planning for nonprofits, addressing common challenges and offering actionable solutions. Drawing from his extensive experience, Chris identifies the three biggest barriers nonprofit leaders face: resource constraints, lack of engagement and buy-in, and external pressures. He emphasizes the importance of shifting from a scarcity mindset to a strategic, long-term approach and highlights the need for inclusive planning processes that foster team alignment and commitment. Chris also shares insights on the critical role of leadership in championing strategic initiatives and offers practical tips for assessing and improving organizational culture. 

ABOUT CHRIS

Chris is a certified executive coach, licensed therapist, and seasoned leadership development professional with a proven track record in the nonprofit sector. He specializes in guiding leaders through strategic prioritization, confident navigation of difficult conversations, and fostering high-performing cultures. As a facilitator and public speaker, Chris has trained hundreds of leaders and spearheaded successful organizational projects. His extensive experience spans nonprofit, health insurance, and government systems. Currently, he partners with human service nonprofit executives to execute strategic plans, addressing challenges such as conflict resolution, culture enhancement, productivity improvement, and fostering inclusive work environments. Chris' expertise encompasses leadership development, strategic planning, change management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES 

• Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire 

277: Unlocking Pay Equity as a Nonprofit Leader (Sally Loftis)

SUMMARY

Are you grappling with compensation issues in your nonprofit organization? In episode 272 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Sally Loftis returns to shed light on pay equity and its importance in the nonprofit sector. Sally, the author of The Pay Equity Guide for Nonprofit Organizations, delves into what pay equity means and why it matters for leaders striving for fairness and transparency. She emphasizes the need for updated pay models, especially considering current labor shortages and the shift towards hybrid work environments. Sally also shares practical advice on starting pay equity initiatives, engaging in cost-of-living studies, and building compensation philosophies. Listen in to gain insights on how to make your organization more attractive to talent and retain your valuable employees through equitable pay practices.

ABOUT SALLY

Sally Loftis, a consultant specializing in human resources, organization development, and social justice, has made significant contributions in the realm of pay equity. She completed her Master of Science in Organization Development at Pepperdine University, where she focused her thesis on Pay Equity in Nonprofits. Sally’s mission is to co-create workplaces where humans feel valued through living wages and healthy human connections. Her work with Loftis Partners emphasizes racial and pay equity, appreciative inquiry, and building on human strengths within organizations. Sally’s commitment to ensuring people feel seen, heard, and represented is evident in her multifaceted career. She has worked with over 50 organizations across 15 states and 3 continents, including Fortune 50 companies, small boutique businesses, and nonprofits of varying sizes. Her approach centers on creating lasting impact, leaving a collective of individuals capable of advancing this work independently.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson
• Hear more from Sally in episode 64: How Can We Address Compensation Gaps in the Nonprofit Sector?
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

276: Transform Your Leadership in the Next 90 Days (Andrew Olsen)

SUMMARY

Are you struggling with leadership challenges in your nonprofit organization? In episode 276 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we dive into another insightful conversation with Andrew Olsen, a seasoned expert in nonprofit leadership and fundraising. Andrew introduces his new email-based course, the 90-Day Leader's Journey, designed to address critical areas of character, culture building, and leadership competence. Drawing from his extensive experience and research, Andrew reveals the common misconception that nonprofits have a fundraising problem, whereas the core issue often lies in leadership. He shares practical strategies for developing leadership skills, fostering a healthy organizational culture, and empowering team members. Discover how focusing on effective leadership can drive significant improvements to your organization’s impact and fundraising success.

ABOUT ANDREW

After spending 25+ years leading global teams to deliver professional services that drive value for companies and consumers around the world, I learned an important lesson. Everything in business (and life) rises and falls on leadership. That’s why I’m passionate about helping leaders increase their impact. It’s why I created the 90-Day Leader’s Journey email course, and why I provide strategic advisory and coaching services to entrepreneurs and business leaders. If you want to accelerate the impact, you’re making as a leader, I invite you to take my 90-Day Leader’s Journey email course or get in touch today about how I can help you through 1:1 coaching or advisory services.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• The Essential Fundraiser’s Handbook: A Guide to Maximizing Donations, Retaining Donors, and Saving the Giving Sector for Good by Lisa Greer
• Increase your Leadership Impact in 90 Days with Andrew Olsen here
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire

275: Fundraising Without Fear: Tips for Non-Fundraising Executives (Shannon Williams)

SUMMARY

Are you struggling with the complexities of fundraising as a senior leader at your nonprofit organization? In episode 275 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we delve into the insights and experiences of Shannon Williams from Armstrong McGuire, who offers valuable advice for nonprofit leaders. Shannon shares why fundraising often falls by the wayside and emphasizes the critical role executive directors must play in this essential task. Discover practical strategies to boost your confidence and effectiveness in fundraising, learn the importance of relationship-building, and explore how to engage your board members in the process. Shannon's journey from an accidental fundraiser to a mentor for nonprofit leaders provides inspiring lessons on cultivating donor relationships, asking for advice, and leveraging your executive title to its fullest potential. Tune in for actionable tips that can transform your approach to fundraising.

ABOUT SHANNON

After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism, Shannon stumbled into a fundraising position cloaked in a communications job and found her passion. For over 25 years, Shannon has focused on bringing fundraising systems, stories of impact, staff and volunteers together to help organizations change the trajectories of their clients and communities. Shannon leads the Armstrong McGuire team of advisors in helping boards find strategic direction, transforming vision into a clear, articulate case, maximizing fundraising potential, and matching talented leaders to exceptional organizations. When she is not partnering with nonprofits, you will find Shannon cheering on Furman Cross Country and Track, all things Tar Heels, and the Carolina Hurricanes. 

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Asking: A 59-Minute Guide to Everything Board Members, Volunteers, and Staff Must Know to Secure the Gift by Jerold Panas
• Ready for a Mastermind? Learn more here.
• Sign up for our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire 

274: Leading Through Adversity (Bruce Ham)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders effectively balance daily challenges, organizational culture and strategic growth while staying true to their mission? In episode 274 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Bruce Ham brings nearly 40 years of experience and two pivotal lessons that shaped his leadership: tackling uncomfortable tasks first thing in the morning and adopting a holistic view of any challenge. He discusses the importance of mentors, strategic meeting management, and cultivating a positive organizational culture. Learn how Bruce navigated personal adversity and professional growth, emphasizing the significance of strategic planning, collaboration, and building strong board relationships. His candid reflections on fundraising reveal practical tips for developing confidence and competence in this essential skill. 

ABOUT BRUCE

Bruce Ham has been employed by the YMCA of the Triangle Area for thirty years. His experience has focused on supervision, team development, leadership, and volunteerism. For the past five years, Bruce has led successful fundraising efforts for the YMCA and the Strategic Planning and Board Development processes. Bruce lost his young wife to cancer in 2010 and spends his free time working with families as they navigate illness and loss. In addition, Bruce has had the opportunity to address medical staff members at multiple hospitals, helping them more fully understand how to honestly and simply work with critically ill patients and their families.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES 

• The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer & John Ortberg 
• Read Bruce’s journey through loss in his book Laughter, Tears and Braids
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our new website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire 

273: How A Funding Collaborative Can Empower Your Nonprofit (Tara Townsend & Carlos Hernandez)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders navigate the challenges of equitable collaboration and sustainable funding in a sector often marked by resource disparities and systemic barriers? In episode 273 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, two influential nonprofit leaders, Tara Townsend and Carlos Hernandez, discuss the intricacies of collaboration, sustainability, and access to capital within the nonprofit sector. Carlos shares his journey from founding an organization in his basement to navigating equitable collaborations with mainstream institutions and Tara emphasizes the importance of systems change and sustainable funding, particularly through their initiative focused on supporting Chicago's cultural treasures. 

ABOUT TARA

Named President of IFF’s Social Impact Accelerator in June 2022, Dr. Tara Townsend leads IFF’s work to accelerate positive social impact and systems change by meeting nonprofit sector needs and addressing place-based challenges throughout the Midwest. Dr. Townsend previously served as Senior Vice President of IFF’s research and evaluation practice, which informs and guides strategic planning and the investment of resources to maximize the transformational impact on low-income and disabled communities. Townsend brings to her role over 20 years of applied research and evaluation experience in the nonprofit and public spheres within several sectors, including criminal justice, public health, and education. 

ABOUT CARLOS

Carlos R. Hernandez is the founder executive director of the Puerto Rican Arts Alliance (PRAA), and has transformed the organization into one of Chicago's leading Latino arts institutions. PRAA offers a broad spectrum of cultural and academic enrichment programs for youth and children and is renowned for producing the annual Emmy Award-winning National Cuatro Festival. In 2021, PRAA, under Carlos’s guidance, was awarded $500,000 and named one of Chicago’s Cultural Treasurers.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Working with You is Killing Me: Freeing Yourself from Emotional Traps at Work by Katherine Crowley & Kathi Elster & 1776 by David McCullough
• Ready for a Mastermind?  Learn more here!
• Need more resources? Check out our website:

272: Cultivating Community and Compassion in the Digital Age (Andria Larson)

SUMMARY

How can nonprofit leaders harness the power of technology to build meaningful relationships while driving organizational growth and maintaining a motivated volunteer base? In episode 272 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Andria Larson shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership. She discusses the unique challenges and opportunities technology brings to nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of turning instant impacts into long-term relationships. Andria highlights the critical role of surrounding oneself with a knowledgeable team and the significance of maintaining clear, simple communication with volunteers. She reveals how to grow an organization driven by a mission of kindness and community support and offers valuable insights into strategic planning and team motivation.

ABOUT ANDRIA

Andria Larson is the Executive Director of Lasagna Love, a spirited global initiative dedicated to combating hunger and overwhelm by spreading support through the heartfelt sharing of home-cooked meals. Andria has catalyzed the organization’s explosive growth from a heartfelt local project in San Diego to a globally celebrated emblem of hope and solidarity. Leveraging her extensive experience in operations management and visionary leadership across the retail, hospitality, and food service sectors, Andria's career highlights her versatility and fervent desire to make a tangible difference. Her earlier roles refined her skills in crisis management, strategic planning, and team motivation, which she now applies to empower a dedicated army of 52,000 volunteers at Lasagna Love. Under her passionate leadership, the organization has not only broadened its horizons but also fortified its operational frameworks, ensuring enduring and meaningful community impact.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• The Second CEO: Accelerating Scale When Following the Founder by Matt Sharrers
• Learn more about Andria and Lasagna Love here
• Ready for a Mastermind Leadership Development program?  Learn more here
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens: the latest on nonprofit leadership
• Looking for more resources? Check out our website, PMAnonprofit.com
• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire