Shows
NP LocalVolunteer Management: Issues & Best PracticesIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, host Jason Cass and Scott Niermann are joined by Scott McFarland, Executive Director at Missouri Community Service Commission. Volunteers are an important part of a nonprofit: they are donors of time, similar to donors of money. Therefore, good program management for the volunteer corps and appropriate time allocation and training for staff in these roles is critical to maximizing the value of volunteers. Listen to this episode for some key practices that will protect and provide for your nonprofit.
Episode Highlights:
Does Scott McFarland think that according to the independent sector, the...2021-08-1029 min
NP LocalVolunteerism: Why Does It Matter?This episode of the NP Local podcast is hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann. For those not in the nonprofit world, why does volunteerism matter? For those in nonprofits, small and large, do you know why people volunteer and how they think? Another form of giving is volunteering one's time. This is incredibly important to not only that individual but to nonprofit organizations far and wide. Listen for more wisdom from the hosts of NP Local related to volunteers and volunteering.
Episode Highlights:
Scott shares what he has seen in his foundation coming out of the pandemic. (2:32)
Did Scott...2021-07-2720 min
NP LocalGiving USA 2021 Report TakeawaysIn this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, they learn about the newly released report on American philanthropy and some key takeaways for nonprofit professionals and fundraisers. A public service of the Giving USA Foundation and Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, the Giving USA report is published annually and is the longest-standing report of its kind.
Episode Highlights:
Scott shares the report called the Giving USA Report. (2:18)
Scott mentions how much charitable giving grew according to the report. (3:07)
Jason mentions why the report is proof that rich people give. (4:09)
Scott shares...2021-07-1322 min
NP LocalTips for Today from 45 Years of Fundraising, Featuring Sandi ByrdIn this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, they’re completely on target for today's fundraising environment. Enjoy a short conversation with veteran fundraiser Sandi Byrd, ACFRE. From the early years of Loudon County Habitat for Humanity with its Founder to working at a small affiliate today, Sandi brings wisdom from over 45 years of nonprofit experience. Sandi and Scott share excellent points on the strategies of showing impact, accountability, and on partnering in your community. Don't miss it!
Episode Highlights:
Scott introduces Sandi Byrd. (1:15)
Sandi shares her background. (3:28)
What drives Sandi to being in...2021-06-1521 min
NP LocalThe "Why?" and "How?" of a Charting Impact ReportIn this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, Jason and Scott discuss how the Charting Impact framework will help your organization articulate long-term goals, programmatic strategies, capabilities, and impact your constituents, funders, and even new staff and board members as you onboard. But, how do you go about writing this? How is it similar to, but different from strategic planning or marketing? Keep it simple with your NP Local hosts and take time to research, reflect, and then get this done for your organization!
Episode Highlights:
Scott mentions the first step in preparing...2021-06-0121 min
NP LocalTelling the Story of Your Organization's ImpactIn this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, using the Charting Impact framework crafted by leading, nationwide nonprofit advocacy and transparency organizations, NP Local hosts walk through five strategic questions every organization should consider in order to communicate their story. Specifically, the Charting Impact framework will help your organization articulate long-term goals, programmatic strategies, capabilities, and impact to your constituents, funders, and even new staff and board members as you onboard. Check it out today, and stand out above the crowd, as a worthy and valuable nonprofit!
Episode Highlights:
Scott mentions some organizations...2021-05-1822 minNP LocalMembership Organizations, Featuring Joy DulingJoin host Scott Niermann as he talks with Consultant and Speaker Joy Duling about the importance of nonprofit membership, trade, and professional associations. Consider some key points from Joy that can help build your membership organization following the pandemic, as people again seek connections to impact the local community you serve.
Episode Highlights:
Joy shares her work with membership nonprofits. (2:58)
Joy explains why some people are not joiners. (4:39)
Joy mentions the software platform she constructed. (5:55)
Scott mentions the first time he met Joy. (8:51)
Joy shares the model she utilizes when talking with her clients. (9:42)
Joy shares how membership organizations adjust. (12:14)
...2021-05-0420 minNP LocalNonprofit Insurance: What You Need To KnowIn this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, they discuss what kind of insurance is appropriate for nonprofits.
Episode Highlights:
Jason shares what the traits are that a person must have when an executive is looking for an agent. (3:34)
Jason mentions why he fell into nonprofits. (4:31)
Jason shares some of the companies that he works with. (7:25)
Jason mentions the only reason why they're usually writing the nonprofit. (7:48)
Jason explains the two types of liability. (8:15)
Jason mentions what workers comp is and why they do what they do. (12:10)
Jason shares a scenario where he...2021-04-2022 minNP LocalPolicies: What's Most Important and WhyIn this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, they discuss the different types of board policies and what it’s all about.
Episode Highlights:
Scott mentions why crafting policies is not his favorite as a nonprofit director. (5:23)
Jason shares why business owners try to avoid working on policies. (6:54)
Jason mentions the definition of wrongful acts. (7:50)
Scott mentions the Association of Fundraising Professionals website. (9:12)
Scott shares that a conflict of interest policy is required for incorporation. (10:01)
Scott shares what is the gift acceptance policy. (12:47)
Scott mentions what is an investment policy and spending policy. (15:58)
Sc...2021-04-0622 minNP LocalStrategic Planning: Putting Your Mission Into ActionDoes your organization use a strategic plan to implement your mission? Do you set goals with board and constituent buy-in? Join Jason Cass and Scott Niermann for a discussion about the importance of strategic planning, and why it is essential for your team accountability, your organization's success in reaching your vision for a better world.
Episode Highlights:
Scott mentions the strategic plan he’s working on. (1:16)
Jason mentions the three factors of leadership. (3:05)
Why does Scott think that heads of organizations don't want to necessarily train or hold people accountable to those processes? (5:13)
Jason shares why most people want to be...2021-03-2324 minNP LocalIdentifying Your Nonprofit's Core Values, Vision and MissionIn this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, they discuss why the vision, mission and core values are some of the most significant factors that leaders do and their definitions.
Episode Highlights:
Scott shares a story about Peter Drucker, who is a well-known business consultant. (3:12)
Scott shares why a mission statement should help drive your goals. (10:28)
Scott shares why one of the real problems out there is “mission creep.” (11:10)
Scott explains the “Three Musts” that Peter Drucker developed. (13:24)
Scott shares why core values are significant to consider. (17:11)
Scott mentions the Salvation Army. (18:46)
Key Quotes:
...2021-03-0921 minNP LocalDecision-Making like Ben FranklinThe simple t-chart, used by Benjamin Franklin himself, can simplify the complex decision-making within any organization. Useful in your personal and professional life, this method can clarify your considerations as a leader and can also help facilitate team/board conversations such as strategic planning. Avoid "mission creep" in your organization by making better decisions- especially in times of crisis where frequent pivoting may be necessary.
Join us for this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann.
Episode Highlights:
Jason shares a story about his mentor. (1:15)
Jason mentions the T-Chart by Benjamin Franklin. (2:09)
Scott mentions on...2021-02-2322 minNP LocalMeeting Your Goals in the New YearOnly 8% of us meet our yearly goals each December. Why is that? How can we do better? Listen here to find out how you can set SMART goals, leverage accountability, and shift to a more productive mindset for the year.
Join us for this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann.
Episode Highlights:
Scott mentions an article he posted on his blog. (2:15)
Scott shares one of the first things we must do to increase the chances of meeting our goals. (4:53)
Jason shares the main reason why we don't meet our goals and the four re...2021-02-0923 minNP LocalAre You a Fixed Mindset or a Growth Mindset?In this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, discuss the studies that they found about mindset and the book entitled, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.
Episode Highlights:
What was valuable about mindset? (2:26)
Scott shares a story about a photo that has been in his files for a few years that has Dr. Dweck’s name on it. (2:37)
Scott mentions Dr. Dweck’s book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. (2:50)
Scott explains the difference between the fixed mindset and the growth mindset. (3:11)
Scott mentions the Life Leadership website. (7:17)
Jason shares the two type...2021-01-2622 minNP LocalWe Learned a Lot in 2020, Right?In this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, discuss the four different paths that leaders have taken in the last four years and it’s relevance on the nonprofit side.
Episode Highlights:
What did Scott learn from 2020, with regards to the leadership of his foundation? (4:10)
Scott shares four different paths that leaders have taken in the last four years. (5:40)
Scott explains why having a survival mindset is relevant to leadership. (6:02)
What does leadership mean, for a nonprofit? (7:23)
Why does Scott see the second path as circling the wagons and sharpening the saw? (9:25)
Sc...2021-01-1221 minNP LocalTips for Cost Savings During COVIDIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, discuss the actions or elements that could be cut to save money in your organization and those that are not wise to cut.
Episode Highlights:
Scott thinks that many organizations are cutting immediately in areas that may not be wise to cut immediately. (3:11)
Scott mentions that his first recommendation is to look for the waste. (3:55)
Scott shares that for every different type of organization, there are different types of decisions but for most organizations, the small ones probably cannot afford to own. However, if th...2020-12-1521 min
NP LocalHelpful Tips for Navigating COVID ChallengesIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, discuss how the COVID-19 crisis is impacting small organizations differently than larger organizations and share tips on how to navigate the challenges brought by the crisis.
Episode Highlights:
Jason mentions that today’s topic is relevant to Scott. (1:16)
Scott mentions that he came across a report from the Blackbaud Institute called the Blackbaud Institute index. (2:24)
Scott shares that the Blackbaud Institute is a software company that has several different software packages. (2:57)
Scott shares that he was very interested in the particular research that had wit...2020-12-0820 min
NP LocalEngaging the Board Is Boring, Here Is How to Make It FunIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, discuss how to engage your board and how to make the engagement fun and meaningful for the board members.
Episode Highlights:
Scott gives a summary of the ways to engage your board. (2:09)
Scott shares that you have to remember that board members are not corporate board members getting stock options for serving. Rather, they are volunteers and givers. (4:56)
Scott mentions that you must have accountability between the board, staff, and the general public. Because the purpose of a public charity in the IRS code...2020-11-2423 min
NP LocalEngaging the Board Is Hard, Here Is How to Make It EasyIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts, Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, share three basic tips on engaging your board and talk about understanding your vision and its significance in the foundation of your Nonprofit.
Episode Highlights:
Jason mentions that they’re starting to receive feedback from the podcast listeners. (1:06)
Scott mentions that the board is legally responsible, but it’s on the staff to engage the board. (2:26)
Scott shares that in reality, it’s still on the Director to make sure that the board has the necessary information, structure, and meaning behind what they're doing. (3:10)
Jason s...2020-11-1720 min
NP LocalMeasure Your Mission, Your Two Bottom LinesIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts, Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, discuss the definition of nonprofit and finding a way to measure its mission, as well as the three parts of a bottom line.
Episode Highlights:
Scott thinks that most well meaning nonprofit staff may lose focus on the financial side, and others that are very focused on the financial side, they lose the mission. (3:48)
Scott mentions that the bottom line is the idea that we must have a financial bottom line. (4:04)
Scott shares that the second bottom line isn’t necessarily financial, it depends on...2020-11-1023 min
NP LocalThe Fundraising Pyramid, Know It to Grow Your NonprofitIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts, Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, continue to discuss funding and fundraising. Jason and Scott talk about the fundraising pyramid and understanding each layer of the pyramid.
Episode Highlights:
Scott describes the fundraising pyramid. (3:27)
Scott shares that the bottom layer of the pyramid is the foundation for everything on top of it, and being first-time donors. (3:42)
Scott shares that in reality, anything that you're doing in the broad base, is going to be a two to one return. (4:46)
Scott shares one of the elements that he learned from the fundraising...2020-11-0323 min
NP LocalThe Basics of Fundraising for Your Non ProfitIn this episode of the NP Local podcast, hosts Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE, discuss the significance of funding in the nonprofit industry and share how Benjamin Franklin founded the fundraising school.
Key Quotes:
“The benefit of NP Local, we understand that your community is always local, and that is what we're striving to do, is help you strengthen that community.” - Jason Cass (3:45)
“Funding is so important because it's important that folks understand what a nonprofit is, and the fact that an organization has to have something left on December 31 in order to open their doors on Januar...2020-10-1423 min
NP LocalWhy NP Local?In the first episode of the NP Local podcast, co-hosts, Jason Cass, and Scott Niermann, MPA, CFRE discuss the size, scope, and changes taking place in the nonprofit sector that have implications for anyone in the field. Nonprofit leaders listen to NP Local to gain new and different perspectives on important nonprofit topics, and to discover how the next generation of nonprofit leaders can make informed decisions as they are placed in positions of increasing responsibility.
Key Quotes:
“One of the things that we do in our insurance agency, we only do a few are nonprofits. We do a lot of...2020-10-1321 min