The social impact sector isn’t known for being very risky. In fact, it’s often quite the opposite. Too many orgs play it safe, afraid of over-scrutinization (the double standard is real here) and hoping to protect their mission and resources.
But here’s the thing — sometimes the most dangerous thing is playing it too safe.
In this episode, Jonathan and Eric dive into the topic of risk: when to take it, how to de-risk it, and what to expect if it doesn’t pay off.
We cover actionable tips for when (and how) to take risks, like:
→ Be bold, but calculated: Every impactful org will face a time when they need to try something big — even if it’s daunting. Develop a framework to know which risks align with your mission and will benefit your team.
→ Build resilience for the outcomes: Not every risk will pay off, but treating failure as a teacher rather than an enemy is essential for growth.
→ Communicate your “why”: Take your team and stakeholders on the journey with you. Being clear about the purpose of the risk and the goal it serves builds trust and sets everyone up for success.
Whether it’s experimenting with a new program, trying fresh approaches in fundraising, or tackling a major pivot, we believe risk-taking can — and should — have a place in social impact.
Listen to the full episode for deeper insights and personal stories from Jonathan and Eric.
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