Shows
Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership348: Holiday Rewind: 4 Ways to Advance Your Nonprofit Leadership348: Holiday Rewind: 4 Ways to Advance Your Nonprofit LeadershipWhat are you doing - intentionally - to move closer to your nonprofit leadership goals?In this Holiday Rewind of solo episode #159, Patton revisits four practical, evergreen ways nonprofit leaders can reflect, refocus, and move forward in their leadership journey. Whether you’re early in your career, preparing for your next step, or refining your impact as a senior leader, these four elements provide a simple framework for year-end reflection and year-ahead momentum.Special thanks to our friends fr...
2025-12-2541 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership344: Thanksgiving 2025: 7 Reasons to Be ThankfulThanksgiving 2025: 7 Reasons to Be ThankfulSpecial Edition Show Notes #344This Thanksgiving episode highlights seven standout guests from 2025 - along with their books - plus three bonus titles from Patton’s Picks.Thanks to our partners:TowneBank: https://TowneBank.com/NonprofitBankingArmstrong McGuire: https://armstrongmcguire.comMastermind Leadership Program: https://PMAnonprofit.com/mastermindFeatured Guests & BooksMary Kelly — Ep. 317: Crisis-Proof Your LeadershipEpisode: https://www.podpage.com/your-path-to-nonprofit-leadership/317Book: https://www.amaz...
2025-11-2721 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership300: 30 Takeaways from 300 Episodes300: 30 Takeaways from 300 EpisodesSUMMARYThis episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates, your go-to resource for career opportunities OR for help finding an interim executive or your nonprofit’s next leader. In this special milestone episode of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, host Patton McDowell highlights key moments, lessons learned, and pivotal conversations from the podcast’s first 300 episodes. 15 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS First Episode: November 13, 2019First Guest: Penny Hawkins, AVC of Development at UNC CharlotteMost Downloa...
2025-01-2327 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership296: PMA’s Holiday Gift Basket for Nonprofit Leaders (Patton McDowell)296: PMA’s Holiday Gift Basket for Nonprofit Leaders (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYThis episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader. As the year ends, nonprofit leaders are reflecting on 2024 while gearing up for a successful 2025. In episode 296 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, host Patton McDowell delivers PMA’s “holiday gift basket” of actionable strategies to support your leadership journey. From building a personal...
2024-12-2627 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership292: 5 Keys to Building Your 2025 Leadership Plan (Patton McDowell)292: 5 Keys to Building Your 2025 Leadership Plan (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYThis episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader. This Thanksgiving season, take a moment to pause and invest in your future. As the year draws to a close, there’s no better time to craft your personal strategic plan for 2025. In episode 292 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, discover five actionable steps to ele...
2024-11-2824 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership263: Tech-Forward Strategies for Nonprofit Success (David Blyer)263: Tech-Forward Strategies for Nonprofit Success (David Blyer)SUMMARYHow can your nonprofit leverage the latest technological advancements to elevate its fundraising, donor engagement, and mission impact? In episode 263 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, technology expert David Blyer explores cutting-edge tools and strategies shaping the future of the nonprofit sector. From the imperative of leveraging technology to drive social change to the practical applications of AI and machine learning, David sheds light on how nonprofits can harness these tools to...
2024-05-2349 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership258: Creating an Emotional Connection with Your Nonprofit Donors (Haley Cooper)258: Creating an Emotional Connection with Your Nonprofit Donors (Haley Cooper)SUMMARYAre you tired of traditional fundraising approaches failing to inspire your donors? In episode 258 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we delve into a revolutionary approach to nonprofit leadership with Haley Cooper, a seasoned CFRE and expert in emotional connection strategies. From unraveling the tangled web of internal conflicts to rebuilding a culture of communication, Haley's insights, grounded in neuroscience, are transforming nonprofit dynamics. Discover how her...
2024-04-1836 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership249: Maximizing Video to Tell Your Nonprofit Story (Diane Strand)249: Maximizing Video to Tell Your Nonprofit Story (Diane Strand)SUMMARYEver wondered how harnessing the power of video storytelling could revolutionize your nonprofit's outreach efforts? In episode #249 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Diane Strand, a seasoned entrepreneur and nonprofit founder, shares invaluable insights into maximizing the impact of video to convey your organization's narrative. Diane explores how leveraging video storytelling resonates with individual donors and patrons, leading to increased funding. She also delves into the strategies for amplifying a...
2024-02-1537 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership247: The 10 Commandments of Working with a Nonprofit Board (Erik Hanberg)247: The 10 Commandments of Working with a Nonprofit Board (Erik Hanberg)SUMMARYDo you have a productive relationship with your board of directors? Are the individual and collective roles clearly defined for optimum success? Erik Hanberg, who has over 20 years’ experience breaking down the complex and often confusing relationship between a nonprofit’s leadership and its board of directors, shares his best advice for working with a nonprofit board in episode #247 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. Erik explains his 10 Commandments for establishing and...
2024-02-0149 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership246: How Do You Address the Capacity Dilemma as a Nonprofit Leader? (Teri Beckman)246: How Do You Address the Capacity Dilemma as a Nonprofit Leader? (Teri Beckman)SUMMARYIs your organization operating below its capacity while your team feels like they are overloaded? This is the crux of the capacity dilemma, and in episode #246 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Teri Beckman discusses the imbalance this challenge creates and how nonprofit leaders can resolve the tension this apparent contradiction creates. Teri also shares key tools and routines to help you...
2024-01-2548 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership245: 4 Ways to Become Mentally Shredded as a Nonprofit Leader (Chris Weedon)245: 4 Ways to Become Mentally Shredded as a Nonprofit Leader (Chris Weedon)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, does the workload, isolation, and pressure to ensure the wellness of your community lead to feelings of burnout? In episode #245 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, nonprofit leader Chris Weedon shares his struggles with these and other mental health stresses and offers support by helping you become mentally shredded. Chris explains what it is to be mentally shredded, how to recognize it...
2024-01-1846 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership244: Mission, Vision & Talent: A CEO’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership (Carol Hardison)244: Mission, Vision & Talent: A CEO’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership (Carol Hardison)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, how do you manage the “urgencies” in front of you while keeping an eye on the changing landscape ahead? You’ll want to listen to the advice of an accomplished nonprofit leader, Carol Hardison. Carol shares her advice on topics such as talent acquisition, building a strong strategic vision, and assuring you’ve got the funding you need in episode #244 of Your Path to Nonprofit...
2024-01-1147 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership243: How Can You Better Maximize the Potential of Your Volunteers? (Karen Knight)243: How Can You Better Maximize the Potential of Your Volunteers? (Karen Knight)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, have you struggled to build a strong and sustainable volunteer program? In episode #243 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, volunteer leadership expert Karen Knight discusses what she’s learned over 25 years of providing volunteer recruitment, engagement, and training support for nonprofit organizations. Karen shares the top four trends leaders should know to grow their volunteer engagement program. She explains how leveraging yo...
2024-01-0451 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership242: How to Design a Personal Planning Retreat (Patton McDowell)242: How to Design a Personal Planning Retreat (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYIn this solo episode #242, Patton McDowell discusses the process of designing a structured personal strategy retreat. The episode highlights why it's critical for nonprofit leaders to invest time in their own strategic planning, a practice often overlooked. He shares valuable strategies and insights on planning and executing a personal retreat for meaningful professional and personal development.12 STEPS TO DESIGN YOUR RETREATDetermine Date & Location G...
2023-12-2830 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership241: The Power of Strategic Planning for Nonprofits (Marie Palacios)241: The Power of Strategic Planning for Nonprofits (Marie Palacios)SUMMARYDid you know that a well-crafted strategic plan is statistically proven to double an organization’s chance of long-term success? In episode #241 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, strategic planning expert Marie Palacios provides clarity around the strategic planning process and how to create a powerful final written product. You’ll gain insider tips on questions like “How do we level the playing field so both introverts and extroverts have equal...
2023-12-2142 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership239: Nonprofit Leadership: 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started (Elizabeth Cushing)239: Nonprofit Leadership: 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started (Elizabeth Cushing)SUMMARYWhere are you on Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership? In episode #239, seasoned nonprofit leader Elizabeth Cushing shares some of her biggest surprises along the journey, lessons she learned while leading large-scale organizational growth during a global pandemic, and the three things she wished she’d known before her journey began. Learn the differences between scaling an organization versus scaling the solution, and how large-scale ch...
2023-12-0748 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership238: Is It Time to Redesign Your Nonprofit’s Website? (David Pisarek)238: Is It Time to Redesign Your Nonprofit’s Website? (David Pisarek)SUMMARYIs your website as effective as it needs to be for your nonprofit? In episode #238 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, digital marketing expert David Pisarek shares how you can dramatically improve your website and digital marketing efforts and why you should invest in that effort right now. Learn what a redesign process looks like, the typical costs, and how to find a great agency with wh...
2023-11-3047 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership234: Building Financial Leadership Within Your Nonprofit (Jessica McClain)234: Building Financial Leadership Within Your Nonprofit (Jessica McClain)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, how do you assess and ensure your organization has the financial tools, talents and resources to best advance your mission? Jessica McClain, a nonprofit leader and CPA recently named one of the Most Powerful Women in Accounting in 2023, advocates in episode #234 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership how building a culture of open communication between your accounting department and other organizational leaders can better integrate...
2023-11-0241 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership233: Navigating Frustrating Scenarios with Your Nonprofit Board (Michael Corley)233: Navigating Frustrating Scenarios with Your Nonprofit Board (Michael Corley)SUMMARYHow well do you get along with your board members? The complexity of the board/staff relationship can create challenges for any nonprofit leader. In episode #233 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, nonprofit board expert Michael Corley illustrates many of the frustrating scenarios executive directors encounter with their board of directors, and how they can better navigate them. Michael clarifies the core roles and responsibilities among all parties...
2023-10-2639 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership230: Why Your Nonprofit is Doing Strategic Planning All Wrong (Sarah Olivieri)230: Why Your Nonprofit is Doing Strategic Planning All Wrong (Sarah Olivieri)SUMMARYWhat exactly is strategic planning for a nonprofit organization? Does your plan truly align with your mission, and do you know how to actually get the plan in motion? Sarah Olivieri shares her unique approach to strategic planning and board engagement that every nonprofit leader will want to consider in episode #230 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. She explains her 5 keys to better strategic planning and...
2023-10-0547 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership220: Finding Your Voice as a Nonprofit Leader (Sabrina Gilchrist)220: Finding Your Voice as a Nonprofit Leader (Sabrina Gilchrist)SUMMARYWhat does it mean to find your voice as a nonprofit leader? In episode #220 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Sabrina Gilchrist shares the journey to find her voice as a nonprofit leader and the positive effect it has on furthering the mission of her organization. Are you the kind of leader talented people want to follow to further a mission in which donors have confidence investing? Learn...
2023-07-2747 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership210: Leading Through Failure as a Nonprofit Leader (Amy Burkett)210: Leading Through Failure as a Nonprofit Leader (Amy Burkett)SUMMARYDo failures knock you back more than they should? Failure shouldn’t be debilitating and Amy Burkett says it’s actually the secret to your success! In episode #210 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, two-time author, executive, and leadership expert Amy Burkett shares why you shouldn’t fear failure, and instead make it your friend. She shares how you can weave the lessons from failures into success and not be...
2023-05-1845 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership209: Looking for Leadership as a Nonprofit Funder (Robb Webb)209: Looking for Leadership as a Nonprofit Funder (Robb Webb)SUMMARYDoes your nonprofit embody the leadership qualities for which major funders are looking? Nonprofit leaders who are best prepared when applying for grant funding can save themselves precious time and set their organization up for success if they seek to understand what philanthropic leaders are evaluating. But how do you know what funders are actually looking for? In episode #209 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Robb Webb, Director of Rural...
2023-05-1157 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership208: Managing People Problems as a Nonprofit Leader (Beth Napleton)208: Managing People Problems as a Nonprofit Leader (Beth Napleton)SUMMARYHow do you manage your toughest people problems? A good leader solves problems. A great one anticipates them. In episode #208 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Beth Napleton shares why managing and leading people is one of the biggest and most important responsibilities nonprofit leaders have, but it’s also the hardest. She explains why earning trust is an essential component to building an environment where people can fe...
2023-05-0454 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership207: Embracing the Art & Science of a Capital Campaign (Bob Pierce)207: Embracing the Art & Science of a Capital Campaign (Bob Pierce)SUMMARYWill you be ready when it’s time to conduct a fundraising campaign at your organization? Nearly every nonprofit is in some stage of campaign planning: thinking about one, implementing one or recovering from one! As a leader, you will likely have to manage a campaign at some point in your career. In episode #207 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we turned to the leader of the University of Alabama’s highly successful Risin...
2023-04-2754 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership206: Staffing Your Grants Program: Employee or Consultant? (Holly Rustick)206: Staffing Your Grants Program: Employee or Consultant? (Holly Rustick)SUMMARYGrant writing is more than just a process, it’s a skill. And like any skill, we must perfect it with time and practice. So how do you evaluate if you should outsource this aspect of your fundraising program or invest internally? In episode #206 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we speak with funding and grant writing expert Holly Rustick to help determine which is worth more to yo...
2023-04-2046 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership205: What Issues Will You Face as a New Nonprofit Leader? (Tom O’Toole)205: What Issues Will You Face as a New Nonprofit Leader? (Tom O’Toole)SUMMARYAre you on the path to nonprofit leadership? How prepared are you for the challenges you’ll face? In episode #205 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we speak with Tom O’Toole, Executive Director of Public Affairs Programming at Cornell University’s Brooks School of Public Policy about what skills aspiring leaders need to efficiently and effectively run a nonprofit organization. Tom shares serious concerns of burnout - not just work/lif...
2023-04-1342 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership204: How Can Nonprofit Leaders Bring Innovation to Their Organization? (Leah Kral)204: How Can Nonprofit Leaders Bring Innovation to Their Organization? (Leah Kral)SUMMARYHow can you foster sustainable innovation within your nonprofit? Between the pandemic and workforce shortages, many nonprofit leaders today are likely exhausted and running out of actionable ideas. It’s said that adversity drives innovation, but for many, that well is drying up too soon. So where are all the good ideas? In episode #204 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, nonprofit strategist and author, Leah Kral, explains that as...
2023-04-0646 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership203: Finding Success as a New Nonprofit Leader (Aaron Randolph)203: Finding Success as a New Nonprofit Leader (Aaron Randolph)SUMMARYHow do you find success as a new nonprofit leader? Starting any new business is difficult, and while similar, starting a nonprofit has a whole host of unique complexities. In Episode #203 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Aaron Randolph shares his best advice for others looking to start, fund and run a successful nonprofit organization. Aaron navigated the “big three” - new leader, new organization, new community – and thoughtfully recounts the le...
2023-03-3058 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership202: Turning Your Financials into a Nonprofit Leadership Tool (Melisa Galasso)202: Turning Your Financials into a Nonprofit Leadership Tool (Melisa Galasso)SUMMARYAre you and your board members confident when it comes to the financials? Many nonprofit leaders - staff and board - are not. In episode #202 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Melisa Galasso brings two decades of experience making complex accounting topics easy to understand, and will empower you with the financial acumen to better lead your nonprofit. She breaks down the sometimes complex world of accounting s...
2023-03-2345 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership201: Key Fundraising Trends Nonprofit Leaders Need to Know (Matt Nash)201: Key Fundraising Trends Nonprofit Leaders Need to Know (Matt Nash)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, are you aware of the unique motivations many Donor Advise Fund (DAF) givers share? Do you target stewardship efforts to this group of individuals specifically? In episode #201 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Matt Nash, who has been on the cutting edge of recent key fundraising trends in the philanthropic sector shares his extensive knowledge about the rise of this donor group. Learn...
2023-03-1649 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership200: Nonprofit Leaders: Which Trends Should You Follow? (Becky Endicott & Jon McCoy)200: Nonprofit Leaders: Which Trends Should You Follow? (Becky Endicott & Jon McCoy)SUMMARYWhat key trends are you following as a leader in 2023? For the enterprising nonprofit executive, one of the best sources of cutting-edge information on hot topics in the sector is We Are For Good, and that’s why we waited until the #200th episode of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership to speak with Becky Endicott and Jon McC...
2023-03-0951 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership198: Dirty Little Secrets of Direct Response Fundraising (Andrew Olsen)198: Dirty Little Secrets of Direct Response Fundraising (Andrew Olsen)SUMMARYWhat is direct response fundraising? Is it part of your overall fundraising plan and are you getting the returns you expect? In episode #198 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Andrew Olsen returns to the podcast and explains why you need a better way to fundraise. Many nonprofits coming out of Covid are achieving their highest levels in giving. However, Andrew explains why giving patterns...
2023-02-2350 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership197: Building a New Community as a Nonprofit Leader (Sherri Chisholm)197: Building a New Community as a Nonprofit Leader (Sherri Chisholm)SUMMARYStepping into a new leadership role is an exciting challenge, but doing it in a new community can create new complexities. In episode #197 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, seasoned nonprofit leader Sherri Chisholm shares how she navigated a new community while maintaining her personal and professional connection to the cause. She shares the steps she took to hone the organization's vision and message, and how each of her...
2023-02-1649 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership196: Key Strategies for Becoming an Exceptional Nonprofit Leader (Denver Frederick)196: Key Strategies for Becoming an Exceptional Nonprofit Leader (Denver Frederick)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, you’re committed to achieving greater impact, yet recent challenges could hinder the effective implementation of your mission. In episode #196 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we’re joined by Denver Frederick, a pioneer in the philanthropic sector who has been on the cutting edge of many fundraising principles used today. As someone who created the model for corporate sponsorships, he shares his opin...
2023-02-0956 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership195: Leading a Nonprofit in a Post-Pandemic Environment (Katherine Lambert)195: Leading a Nonprofit in a Post Pandemic Working Environment (Katherine Lambert)SUMMARYThe pandemic put a unique pressure on nonprofit organizations and its leaders to do more with less, and adapt to new technologies and structures. As we usher in a post Covid-19 future, what will the new normal in the nonprofit sector look like? In episode #195 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we speak with veteran philanthropic leader, Katherine Lambert, about finding balance post-pandemic and moving from surviving to thriving. While...
2023-02-0250 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership194: 3 Essential Characteristics for Nonprofit Leaders (Jama Campbell)194: 3 Essential Characteristics for Nonprofit Leaders (Jama Campbell)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader looking for specific program funding, are you aware of all your opportunities and what those potential funders are specifically looking for when considering where to invest? In episode #194 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with SECU Foundation Executive Director Jama Campbell about key leadership attributes they look for when choosing projects and programs to fund. She shares the...
2023-01-2649 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership193: Social Impact Strategies for Nonprofit Leaders (Jacob Harold)193: Social Impact Strategies for Nonprofit Leaders (Jacob Harold)SUMMARYMany nonprofit leaders have social impact amongst their chief objectives, but do you know what social impact truly means and how to measure the impact you’re having? In episode #193 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, social change strategist Jacob Harold shares his tools to help you transform your corner of the world. A former GuideStar and Candid executive, Jacob talks about the importance of collaboration, transparency, communication and co...
2023-01-1951 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership192: Everything You Think About Board Development Is Wrong (Sabrina Walker Hernandez)192: Everything You Think About Board Development Is Wrong (Sabrina Walker Hernandez)SUMMARYWhat is the biggest misconception about board development that many nonprofit leaders face? Do you have the right members on your board and do they know exactly why they've been invited to join? Sabrina Walker Hernandez, who has over 25 years’ experience in nonprofit management, answers these questions and more in episode #192 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. She shares key advice for effective board engagement from recruitment and or...
2023-01-1246 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership189: Maximizing Community Relationships as a Nonprofit Leader (Kathy Rogers)189: Maximizing Community Relationships as a Nonprofit Leader (Kathy Rogers)SUMMARYCommunity partnerships can be an effective way to accomplish shared goals. What are the factors that make some partnerships more effective than others? In episode #189 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Mental Health America of Central Carolinas Executive Director Kathy Rogers outlines the importance of building intentional and strategic community relationships that maximizes collaboration, funding, and will move your mission forward. She shares key aspects for cultivating stronger relationships with local governments. Community-based nonprofit organizations offer unique and important insights into the challenges and opportunities...
2022-12-2251 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership188: How Can You Be More Effective as a Nonprofit Leader? (Grace Nicolette)188: How Can You Be More Effective as a Nonprofit Leader? (Grace Nicolette)SUMMARYBeing effective in the philanthropic sector is uniquely challenging. To make every dollar count, you must continually assess performance, learn from data, and adapt in ways that are consistent with effectiveness. Grace Nicolette, co-host of the widely acclaimed Giving Done Right Podcast and Center for Effective Philanthropy (CEP) executive, joins us in episode #188 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership to share...
2022-12-1543 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership186: Why Don’t Board Members Do What They’re Supposed to Do? (Hardy Smith)186: Why Don’t Board Members Do What They’re Supposed to Do? (Hardy Smith)SUMMARYAre your nonprofit board members as engaged as they should be? Do they micromanage or are they completely disengaged? In episode #186 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, author of Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game, Hardy Smith, discusses what an effective board really means. He details actions to avoid board member relationship mistakes, keys to recruiting and retaining productive board members, and why board members aren’t passionate about...
2022-12-011h 03Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership185: Happy Thanksgiving: 7 Ideas For Which You'll Thank Me (Patton McDowell)What are you doing to actually move closer to your ideal leadership role in the nonprofit sector? In this solo episode #185 of The Path Podcast, I offer seven specific ideas that can help you build your personal strategic plan for the year ahead.1. Declutter 2. Calendar Review 3. Aspirational Job Postings 4. Read A Book 5. Create a Guide List 6. Two Topic Curriculum 7. Coach and be Coached ABOUT PATTONPatton McDowell has enjoyed a successful 30-year career in nonprofit leadership, strategic planning, and organiza...
2022-11-2429 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership184: Excelling at Team Development as a Nonprofit Leader (Liz Brigham)184: Excelling at Team Development as a Nonprofit Leader (Liz Brigham)SUMMARYIs the synergy of your team firing on all cylinders? Do you make time for an intentional pause, to first look back at what got you to where you are and what it will take to get you to that next level? Liz Brigham of the Jay Hurt Hub for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Davidson College answers these questions and more in episode #184 of Your Path to Nonprofit...
2022-11-1758 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership183: National Philanthropy Day: How Will You Celebrate? (Robert Touchstone)183: National Philanthropy Day: How Will You Celebrate? (Robert Touchstone)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, how can you leverage National Philanthropy Day throughout the year? Learn why it’s celebrated across the nation and about some of the local winners worthy of recognition as we talk with AFP Charlotte President Robert Touchstone in episode #183 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. Robert advocates for the benefits nonprofit leaders realize through an organization like AFP. He also di...
2022-11-1051 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership182: Breaking Down Barriers as a Nonprofit Leader (Nyeisha Dewitt)182: Breaking Down Barriers as a Nonprofit Leader (Nyeisha Dewitt)SUMMARYHow do you blend your life experiences with a passion for change and actually do something about it? Dr. Nyeisha Dewitt is eminently qualified to answer this question. In episode #182 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Nyeisha shares her journey to nonprofit leadership, the lessons she’s learned, and the challenges she’s faced along the way. As a committed entrepreneur herself, she knows leaders can...
2022-11-0345 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership181: What Are Your Donors Thinking? (Derric Bakker)181: What Are Your Donors Thinking? (Derric Bakker)SUMMARYAfter record-level giving during Covid, what are your donors thinking with uncertain economic conditions ahead? In episode #181 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with Derric Bakker, a 30+ year expert fundraiser and founder of the annual Donor Insight Study, about what donors are likely to do in the year ahead. After multiple years studying the economic indicators that affect philanthropic behavior, Derric shares his insight about what i...
2022-10-2743 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership180: How Can You Use Technology to Amplify Good? (Ray Gary)180: How Can You Use Technology to Amplify Good? (Ray Gary)SUMMARYToday’s donors have become empowered consumers conditioned by predictive technology experiences. As a nonprofit leader, do you truly embrace the donor experience? Is your technology more convenient for the organization than it is for your donors? In episode #180 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership technology expert, Ray Gary explains how nonprofit leaders who embrace current advances in digital platforms successfully engage, cultivate, and grow donors to be...
2022-10-2040 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership179: Transition Across Sectors: Are You Ready to Lead a Nonprofit? (Beth Reaves)179: Transition Across Sectors: Are You Ready to Lead a Nonprofit? (Beth Reaves)SUMMARYAre you considering a career move to a mission based nonprofit and wonder how your corporate skills will transfer to the philanthropic sector? In episode #179 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, one time fortune 50 company executive, Beth Reaves shares what to expect for a successful transition. Having developed an “Entry Plan” for new nonprofit leaders, she explains why it’s important to have one that outlines the 30/60/90-day g...
2022-10-1343 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership178: Building a Diverse and Talented Team at Your Nonprofit (Julie Kratz)178: Building a Diverse and Talented Team at Your Nonprofit (Julie Kratz)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, are you creating a more inclusive and diverse culture at your organization, especially at the leadership level? In episode #178 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with an inclusivity expert, Julie Kratz, about developing the framework for building a diverse and talented leadership team. DEI can be a complex topic in the workplace, and Julie introduces the basic terms leaders should know to engage in candid conversations about diversity and...
2022-10-0646 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership177: Mastering Your Financial Acumen as a Nonprofit Leader (Kevin Briscoe)Kevin Briscoe177: Mastering Your Financial Acumen as a Nonprofit Leader (Kevin Briscoe)SUMMARYIs your organization positioned to navigate the unique strategic and financial challenges inherent in nonprofit settings? As a nonprofit leader, do you need more financial expertise but don’t know if you can afford it? In episode #177 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, financial expert Kevin Briscoe helps today’s nonprofit leaders address their overall accounting needs and financial literacy. He defines what a fr...
2022-09-2949 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership176: Does Your Nonprofit Board Have the Skills to Thrive? (Lisa Cook)176: Does Your Nonprofit Board Have the Skills to Thrive? (Lisa Cook)SUMMARYIf leadership begins at the top, does your board ensure everyone is performing at their best at the work they pledged to do? In episode #176 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, board governance expert Lisa Cook shares how to identify, cultivate, train and engage your board for long-term success. She discusses why such skills as governance, strategic planning and financial acumen are necessary for...
2022-09-2252 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership175: How Can Nonprofit Leaders Succeed in the Attention Economy? (Eric Ressler)175: How Can Nonprofit Leaders Succeed in the Attention Economy? (Eric Ressler)SUMMARYWith the distractions of instant access to information, are you effectively capturing the attention of the right people in a sustained, authentic, and meaningful way to move your mission forward? Eric Ressler explains what the attention economy means and how it has affected nonprofit organizations in episode #176 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. Eric shares why organizations struggle to find, grow and...
2022-09-1543 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership173: Can You Manage the Finances as a Nonprofit Leader? (Alex Romero)173: Can You Manage the Finances as a Nonprofit Leader? (Alex Romero)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, are you well versed in the management of budgets and financials for your organization? Can you forecast cash flow and establish internal controls to keep donors and board members happy? In episode #173 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we explore the fundamental financial skills you must master to excel at nonprofit leadership. Virtual CFO Alex Romero identifies some of the biggest financial challenges she sees...
2022-09-0142 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership172: 3 Ways Your Nonprofit Can Inspire Greater Investment (Deepa Naik)172: 3 Ways Your Nonprofit Can Inspire Greater Investment (Deepa Naik)SUMMARYHow do you make a successful case for funding given the increasing number of urgent needs in your community? Your donors certainly have many great causes to consider. In episode #172 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with Deepa Naik, a former fundraiser and consultant who now works with The Merancas Foundation, about what she sees as she reviews dozens of proposals. Have you ever wished you could ask...
2022-08-2553 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership171: How to Build Trust as a Nonprofit Leader (Teresa Mitrovic)171: How to Build Trust as a Nonprofit Leader (Teresa Mitrovic)SUMMARYAre psychological safety and trust key elements of your leadership? How does trust change workplace culture? What is a leader’s role in trust and how do you build psychological safety while maintaining accountability? In episode #171 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, author and coach Teresa Mitrovic advocates for trust as the crucial factor in organizational health. Learn what it means to create and adapt to this type of environment and discover wh...
2022-08-1851 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership170: How Can Your Nonprofit Be More Effective Seeking Grants? (Gauri Manglik)170: How Can Your Nonprofit Be More Effective Seeking Grants? (Gauri Manglik)SUMMARYAs a nonprofit leader, are you focused on the most important elements that help you generate more funding? In episode #170 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, learn how to better train your staff, measure the impact of your team, and choose the best tools for your nonprofit from Gauri Manglik, creator of a barrier-breaking grant discovery, research, and tracking tool. Aside from your mission, the talent you attract and retain is...
2022-08-1138 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership169: How to Assess the Philanthropic Culture of a Nonprofit Organization (Armando Chardiet)169: How to Assess the Philanthropic Culture of a Nonprofit Organization (Armando Chardiet)SUMMARYDoes your organization have a philanthropic culture? How do you know? Armando Chardiet discusses exactly that in episode #169 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, and provides recommendations to best stand out as you seek philanthropic support. He also shares what he looks for in recruiting talent, and why mentorship has been the most significant asset during his nonprofit career. Armando defines what i...
2022-08-0446 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership168: Will Your Nonprofit Sustain Excellence for the Next Generation? (Regina Moody)168: Will Your Nonprofit Sustain Excellence for the Next Generation? (Regina Moody)SUMMARYHow prepared is your organization as the philanthropic sector experiences post-pandemic changes? With increased competition for funding, are you communicating your mission and values effectively and managing your digital technology? In episode #168 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Regina Moody, who has had a remarkable 40-year career at a single organization, shares lessons she’s learned on her journey and what she sees for the future of the sector. Regina...
2022-07-2853 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership167: Horror Stories of Fundraising: What Would You Do? (Jay Frost)167: Horror Stories of Fundraising: What Would You Do? (Jay Frost)SUMMARYThink you're the only one to experience a fundraising horror story? Well, Jay Frost is here to assure you’re not alone and there are ways you can avoid these scary situations. In episode #167 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, he shares the critical importance of having policies and procedures in place to avoid your own horror stories and sustain your strategic plan. Learn how often to review and with whom they’re communicated to better build partnerships of trust. In discussing real...
2022-07-2155 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership166: Transitions in Nonprofit Leadership: Are You Ready to Make a Move? (Mazarine Treyz)166: Transitions in Nonprofit Leadership: Are You Ready to Make a Move? (Mazarine Treyz)SUMMARYAre you pondering your place in the philanthropic sector? The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world and its effects are being felt across all industries. In episode #166 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, multifaceted career coach Mazarine Treyz discusses some factors that nonprofit leaders should keep in mind as they prepare for the next normal. She advocates for such things as self-care, equal pay and the need...
2022-07-1437 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership165: 3 Technology Traps All Nonprofit Leaders Must Avoid (Bill Connors)165: 3 Technology Traps All Nonprofit Leaders Must Avoid (Bill Connors)SUMMARYAre you overwhelmed by the sheer volume of data at your nonprofit? Are you making the most of your CRM to streamline your data in productive ways? In episode #165 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Bill Connors explains why understanding technology is a vital skill many nonprofit leaders aren’t taking seriously enough. He shares his three S’s that senior management should avoid for the long-term well-being of thei...
2022-07-0754 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership164: Building an Organizational Culture of Advocacy (Eric Mitchell)164: Building an Organizational Culture of Advocacy (Eric Mitchell)SUMMARYYou likely bring a passion for change to your leadership role, but are you channeling that passion in the most effective way possible? Are you the advocate for the societal change you aspire to see? In episode #164 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, one time Capitol Hill congressional staffer turned executive director Eric Mitchell explains the missing component to senior nonprofit leadership: advocacy. You may know policies and regulations that can impact...
2022-06-3052 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership163: The First Step to Nonprofit Leadership: Taking Care of Yourself (Georgia Krueger)163: The First Step to Nonprofit Leadership: Taking Care of Yourself (Georgia Krueger)SUMMARYHow can you best be there for your organization, your employees, the individuals you serve and your own family if you aren’t taking care of yourself? In episode #163 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we talk with Georgia Krueger, as she explains why self-care is so important to be your best, feel your best, and, yes, give your best. She shares the importance of...
2022-06-2348 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership162: Are You Ready to be A Nonprofit CEO? (Karen Eber Davis)162: Are You Ready to be A Nonprofit CEO? (Karen Eber Davis)SUMMARYAre you ready to be the kind of leader a nonprofit organization needs as well as inspire the best in others? In episode #162 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Karen Eber Davis discusses what she calls readiness characteristics necessary to be this type of dynamic leader. Through Karen’s extensive research of new CEOs, she identifies skills both emerging and current nonprofit leaders sh...
2022-06-1642 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership161: Measuring Success: How Nonprofit Leaders Can Look Beyond the Numbers (Megha Desai)161: Measuring Success: How Nonprofit Leaders Can Look Beyond the Numbers (Megha Desai)SUMMARYHow do you measure nonprofit success? Unlike the for-profit sector, where metrics are clear, the charitable sector isn’t always as straightforward. In episode #161 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Megha Desai takes a hard look at how, as nonprofit leaders, we measure success and how we communicate that success to our donors and key constituents. Megha explains how she makes decisions based on the...
2022-06-0944 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership159: 4 Ways to Advance Your Nonprofit Leadership This Year (Patton McDowell)159: 4 Ways to Advance Your Nonprofit Leadership This Year (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYWhat are you doing to actually move closer to your leadership goals in the nonprofit sector? Are you thankful for your current nonprofit leadership role? In this solo episode #159 of the Path Podcast, I offer four specific ways you can move closer to your nonprofit leadership goals.1. Sharpen your Vision Framework2. Practice Self-Assessment3. Utilize Strategic Networking...
2022-05-2641 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership158: A Radical Approach to Nonprofit Leadership (Tom Vozzo)158: A Radical Approach to Nonprofit Leadership (Tom Vozzo)SUMMARYHow do you balance capitalistic skills and passion for a cause? Tom Vozzo, who left a highly successful corporate career to become an unpaid nonprofit CEO of the internationally acclaimed Homeboy Industries, is eminently qualified to answer such a question. In episode #158 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, you’ll hear Tom share many of the lessons he’s learned by leading this...
2022-05-1943 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership157: Assuring Cross-Sector Collaboration as A Nonprofit Leader (Kate Markin Coleman)157: Assuring Cross-Sector Collaboration as A Nonprofit Leader (Kate Markin Coleman)SUMMARYAre you creating unnecessary barriers for employment at your nonprofit? Kate Markin Coleman suggests you’re narrowing your talent pool by relying too heavily on a college degree as a proxy for qualification. In episode #157 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, she discusses how to construct a more equitable and effective workforce development system. Learn what it means to conduct a deep skills analysis to better iden...
2022-05-1241 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership156: Everything You Believe About Small Nonprofit Fundraising is Wrong (Zoot Velasco)156: Everything You Believe About Small Nonprofit Fundraising is Wrong (Zoot Velasco)SUMMARYIs your small nonprofit still trying to raise money through special events? Modeling your fundraising plan on what large nonprofits are doing is among several critical mistakes Zoot Velasco will help you avoid. In episode #156 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, he tells us why those special events, big galas, grant writing and even courting major donors are not the most important things on which nonprofit leaders o...
2022-05-0548 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership154: Nonprofit & For-Profit: Creating a Successful Partnership (Shiloh Karshima)154: Nonprofit & For-Profit: Creating a Successful Partnership (Shiloh Karshima)SUMMARYDo you communicate a clear message that properly represents the voice of those you serve? In episode #154 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Shiloh Karshima highlights some of the challenges nonprofit leaders face in trying to make their case more clearly and in an authentic way. Shiloh is a gifted leader with more than two decades experience building philanthropic partnerships in over 14 countries. Shiloh explains how co...
2022-04-2145 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership153: Why Diversification is Vital to Your Fundraising Plan (Holly Rustick)153: Why Diversification is Vital to Your Fundraising Plan (Holly Rustick)SUMMARYIs your nonprofit organization writing competitive grants that grow your funding capacity? In episode #153 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership we speak with Holly Rustick, a grant writing expert with over 15 years of winning more than $30 million in grant funding, on how nonprofit leaders can enhance their grant writing skills and increase funding to advance their organization’s mission. Holly shares practical take...
2022-04-1455 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership150: Developing the Right Mindset to be an Effective Fundraiser (Rhea Wong)150: Developing the Right Mindset to be an Effective Fundraiser (Rhea Wong)SUMMARYDo you struggle with fundraising? Have you truly reflected on why? In honor of our 150th episode of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we discuss what it takes to maximize your fundraising with a leading expert, Rhea Wong. If your fundraising isn’t a strategy as much as it’s a mix of tactics and tools cobbled together, then listen as Rhea introduces her un...
2022-03-2449 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership149: Navigating Data for Nonprofit Leaders (Stu Manewith)149: Navigating Data for Nonprofit Leaders (Stu Manewith)SUMMARYIs your organization overwhelmed by data? Do you have fresh, error free, current and comprehensive data in one easy to access system or has confidence in your communications faltered because you recently noticed something simple like a donor’s name misspelled? Today’s guest, Stu Manewith discusses why nonprofit leaders should be paying more attention to their data. In episode #149 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Stu defines his 5 Keys to Data...
2022-03-1749 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership148: How to Navigate Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership (Patton McDowell)148: How to Navigate Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership SUMMARYHow can Patton’s new book, Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector, help you on your journey to senior leadership? In episode #148 of the Path Podcast, guest host Ken Fuquay explores that exact question by turning the tables on Patton and asking why everyone in - or pondering - nonprofit leadership will benefit from...
2022-03-1040 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership146: 5 Key Productivity Moves for Nonprofit Leaders (Mike St. Pierre)146: 5 Key Productivity Moves for Nonprofit Leaders (Mike St. Pierre)SUMMARYHas navigating the shifts in remote work only exacerbated gaps in your productivity? Or, maybe it didn’t take a global pandemic to realize staying organized in the nonprofit sector can exhaust even the most dedicated leaders. This fatigue and sense of exhaustion is real. However, in episode #146 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we have the founder of Nonprofit Productive, Mike St. Pierre, to equip you with smart and...
2022-02-2453 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership145: Tackling Toxic Leadership in the Nonprofit Sector (Andrew Olsen)145: Tackling Toxic Leadership in the Nonprofit Sector (Andrew Olsen)SUMMARYDoes your nonprofit organization exhibit symptoms of toxic leadership? Feelings of isolation among staff could be misinterpreted as stresses related to recent life changing events such as Covid, so nonprofit leaders must be more cognizant of underlying conditions which may be fostering a toxic environment within an organization. In episode #145 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership Patton and Andrew Olsen discuss recent events and how they ha...
2022-02-1754 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership143: Elevating Your Grants Program as a Nonprofit Leader (Autumn Keck)143: Elevating Your Grants Program as a Nonprofit Leader (Autumn Keck)SUMMARYIs your overall fundraising plan built on a solid foundation of a comprehensive grant writing program? If not, can you identify the vital readiness steps necessary to best prepare your organization for success? In episode #143 of the Path Podcast, Autumn Keck, a fundraising expert with over two decades of experience in grant writing and major gifts solicitation, addresses these questions and more. She explains how best to present the strength of...
2022-02-0349 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership142: Understanding the Impact of Identity for Nonprofit Leaders (Nneka Allen)142: Understanding the Impact of Identity for Nonprofit Leaders (Nneka Allen)SUMMARYWe are all responsible for the environments we create. And they should all be equitable. Nonprofit leaders clearly understand the impact of identity on an organizational culture and equity outcomes. In episode #142 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Nneka Allen, a descendant of the Underground Railroad, shares her remarkable story which began years ago with her freedom-seeking ancestors and ultimately set her on the path of community movements, social change and a desire to pursue justice. Now, after more than tw...
2022-01-2749 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership141: Nonprofit Success in an Age of Disruption (Dave Lenox)141: Nonprofit Success in an Age of Disruption (Dave Lenox)SUMMARYMany nonprofits experience periods of volitivity as a result of leadership turnover. Covid has accelerated some nonprofit leaders to leave an organization after many years of service. In episode #141 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Dave Lenox, a former nonprofit executive director and current managing partner at The Valtas Group, explains the numerous resources available to organizations during these transitions. He and Patton discuss how a firm like V...
2022-01-201h 05Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership138: Global Expansion for Nonprofit Leaders (George Smith)138: Global Expansion for Nonprofit Leaders (George Smith)SUMMARYRegardless of where you are on Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, insight gained from today’s episode with George Smith will no doubt up your game. Within the first few minutes, George will inspire you as he and Patton reminisce on shared experiences with Eunice Kennedy Shriver and the single most important leadership skill the entire Kennedy clan learned early on. Geor...
2021-12-3044 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership137: Building A Strong Nonprofit Through Intentional Leadership (Teddy McDaniel)137: Building A Strong Nonprofit Through Intentional Leadership (Teddy McDaniel)SUMMARYMany for-profit leaders have followed their passion and transitioned to the nonprofit sector. Luckily for the Urban League of the Carolinas, Teddy McDaniel is one such leader who likes to say he doesn’t have a job, he’s on a mission. In episode #137 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, Teddy discusses how being an intentional leader strengthens an organization. He and Patton discuss embracing the nonprofit competition with strategic networking which leads to a better exchange of ideas, resources, and talent. A good no...
2021-12-2351 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership136: Maximizing Volunteer Engagement as a Nonprofit Leader (Lauren Kaufman)136: Maximizing Volunteer Engagement as a Nonprofit Leader (Lauren Kaufman)SUMMARYAre you utilizing the full abilities of your best volunteers? As the leader of an all-volunteer organization that has seen a 40% growth in the past six months, Lauren Kaufman discusses strategic actions to attract, activate, grow, and retain diverse young professional volunteer talent. Connecting the individual volunteer’s skills and experiences with specific organizational roles and committee opportunities strengthens not only the individual’s resume, but the relationship they have with the organization as a...
2021-12-1652 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership133: How to Improve Your Nonprofit Leadership Experience (Patton McDowell)133: How to Improve Your Nonprofit Leadership Experience (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYAre you thankful for your current nonprofit leadership role? The sector should be thankful for talented individuals like you who are dedicated to a vital cause in your community, but I know you may not feel that gratitude as you do even more for an organization that needs your every contribution. In this special Thanksgiving Day episode, I offer some ideas that may help you be an even better leader, but more importantly, help you enjoy a mor...
2021-11-2529 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership131: Paying it Forward as a Nonprofit Leader (Michael DeVaul)131: Paying it Forward as a Nonprofit Leader (Michael DeVaul)SUMMARYPassion is often found in young leaders, while wisdom and experience are words associated with successful senior nonprofit leaders. Where are you on your journey of nonprofit leadership? Do you realize the value of self-assessment? Michael DeVaul has been on both sides of that bridge for more than three decades in the nonprofit sector and reflects on leading by example through action. In episode #131 of The Path Podcast, Michael shares his fi...
2021-11-1158 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership127: 5 Priorities of the Best Nonprofit Leaders (Patton McDowell)127: 5 Priorities of the Best Nonprofit Leaders (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYEver wonder on what the best nonprofit leaders are focused? After working with nearly 250 nonprofit organizations, and having interviewed over 120 talented nonprofit leaders from around the world on the podcast, Patton has narrowed his list to these five priorities which distinguish the best leaders from the rest in episode #127 of the Path Podcast. Are you able to articulate a clear vision for your organization? What spec...
2021-10-1432 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership115: Need to Recharge Your Nonprofit Career Plan? (Patton McDowell)115: Need to Recharge Your Nonprofit Career Plan? (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYWhile the new year gets most of the attention as the time for personal resolutions and career planning, the summer may be an even better time for personal and professional reflection, and a great time to re-evaluate your path to nonprofit leadership. In episode #115 of the Path Podcast, Patton offers a solo summary of two key planning instruments that can help with your nonprofit career planning. Yo...
2021-07-2230 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership100: Leadership Lessons from the First 100 Episodes (Patton McDowell)100: Leadership Lessons from the First 100 Episodes (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYReaching the 100-episode milestone on Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership was a wonderful journey thanks to incredible nonprofit leaders who were willing to share their wisdom and experiences with our listeners. Chris Delisio, our guest on episode #24 on the Path, offered to rejoin the show and interview me about the experience since the inaugural episode on November 21, 2019. Our discussion lifted up many fantastic episodes and the leadership lessons each one produced. Three categories emerged: productivity and management tips, leadership and career development advice, and o...
2021-04-221h 02Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership78: 5 Ways to Build Your Nonprofit Leadership Plan (Patton McDowell)78: 5 Ways to Build Your Nonprofit Leadership Plan (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYIn episode #78 of the Path Podcast, Patton offers a coaching session to help you find 5 Ways to Build Your Nonprofit Leadership Plan. How do you effectively conduct a personal annual review? How do you build your personal board of directors? How do you curate content given the volume of data coming at you? How do you better express yourself in professional settings that can help you get ahead? And fina...
2020-12-3133 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership74: 4 Ways to Make Your Virtual Fundraiser More Successful (Jenni Hargrove)74: 4 Ways to Make Your Virtual Fundraiser More Successful (Jenni Hargrove)SUMMARYEvery nonprofit is planning - or pondering - some sort of virtual fundraising event. Either adapting a previous live model, or trying something online for the first time. How confident are you in your design and potential for success? If a virtual fundraising event is in your future, Episode #74 of the Path Podcast is the perfect resource to guide your thinking. Jenni Hargrove brings her marketing, communication and sp...
2020-12-0847 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership72: What Can a Mastermind Do for Your Nonprofit Leadership? (Patton McDowell)72: What Can a Mastermind Do for Your Nonprofit Leadership? (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYWhat is a mastermind, and how could it help you on your nonprofit leadership journey? In episode #72 of the Path Podcast, Patton provides some history on the mastermind concept, and explains how PMA has adapted the model to best serve nonprofit leaders. He explains the characteristics that best describe successful participants, and the philosophies and structure that went into the design and implementation of the program. Patton also shares four key elements of the...
2020-11-2628 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership56: 10 Essential Skills & Experiences for Nonprofit Leadership (Patton McDowell)56: 10 Essential Skills & Experiences for Nonprofit Leadership (Patton McDowell)SUMMARYThis episode of the Path Podcast, #56, includes a top-10 list of the most important skills and experiences necessary for successful nonprofit leadership:Lifelong Learning PlanPersonal OrganizationLeadershipNonprofit/SectorFinancial AcumenSpoken CommunicationWritten CommunicationListening/Conversation SkillsNetworkingStrategic PlanningABOUT PATTONPatton has spent his entire 30-year career helping talented individuals raise more funds and effectively lead their nonprofit organizations. After starting his consulting practice in 2009, he and his colleagues have worked w...
2020-08-2732 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership49: 4 Tips for Effective & Efficient Fundraising (Patton McDowell)049: 4 Tips for Effective & Efficient Fundraising (Patton McDowell)SUMMARY Patton had an opportunity to be a guest on Dolph Goldenburg’s great podcast and discuss four key tips he’s found to help nonprofit organizations organize their fundraising efforts. This was also our first opportunity to participate in a “reverse podcast,” as this episode first appeared on Dolph’s feed on July 16, 2020, and now is included on our feed as well. Description from The Successful Nonprofits Podcast: Small and medium-sized nonprofits fac...
2020-07-2130 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership43: What is Your Nonprofit Career Vision? 6 Questions You Need to Answer (Patton McDowell)43: What is Your Nonprofit Career Vision? 6 Questions You Need to Answer (Patton McDowell) SUMMARYThese are challenging times for all kinds of reasons, given the isolation of the pandemic, the obvious disparities of race and privilege we’re seeing up close, and the economic uncertainties that affect our personal and professional livelihoods. These existential questions don’t have easy answers, but nonprofit leaders are looking for guidance as they get their heads around them and evaluate what it means for their career journey. This episode of the Path
2020-06-2330 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership13: Build A 2020 Personal Strategic Plan That Works (Patton McDowell)#013: Build A 2020 Personal Strategic Plan That Works (Patton McDowell)SummaryWhile the start of a new year often inspires well-intentioned efforts to put a new professional development plan in place, too often the result is a set of vague goals that don’t survive very far into the Spring season. This episode offers multiple ways you can make your plan more actionable and productive for 2020 and beyond. This is the third of three episodes in a year-end series that first covered the keys to an effective year-end review (episode #11) and...
2020-01-0229 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership12: 7 Professional Development Books for Your 2020 Reading List (Patton McDowell)#012: 7 Professional Development Books for Your 2020 Reading List (Patton McDowell)This is the second episode in a three-part series focused on an effective year-end review and an actionable personal strategic plan for the year ahead. Many goal setting exercises include an effort to read more on professional development topics, and this episode recommends seven books that correspond with each “stop” on Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership. Listen to hear summaries of the following outstanding resources:1. As you Sharpen Your Vision, read Carol Dweck’s Mindset2. To help yo...
2020-01-0116 minYour Path to Nonprofit Leadership11: Planning for 2020? Start With These 4 Year-End Exercises to Close Out 2019 First (Patton McDowell)#011: Planning for 2020? Start With These 4 Year-End Exercises to Close Out 2019 First (Patton McDowell)SummaryWhile it’s hard not to look ahead to a new year (and a new decade) in 2020, this episode of the Path reminds us that a good annual review process helps clarify and sharpen your focus for the year ahead. Patton outlines four distinct exercises that will help guide your review in a way that goes further than simply answering whether you achieved your goals or not. This special episode - and the first in a mini-series - p...
2019-12-3121 min