Shows
The Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipPlanning Matters More Than Ever: Election Reaction From Tim and Nathan.Send us a textIs it possible for leaders to truly navigate the stormy seas of political upheaval with grace and purpose? On today's episode, Tim and Nathan provide their thoughts about the election and the ongoing rhetoric and conversation on social media, in the news media, and face to face. The discussion also centers on responding correctly as nonprofit leaders and actions that can be taken to do so.Nonprofit leaders are encouraged to take the following actions:Be strategic in your responseGet input from the BoardTake the time to get di...
2024-11-0919 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipMastering Post-Pandemic Networking: Strategies for Nonprofit LeadersSend us a textHey there, nonprofit leaders! Ready to shake up your networking game in this post-COVID world? Let's face it - networking events aren't quite the same since the pandemic, right? And if you're an introvert, you might be feeling the struggle even more. On today's episode, Tim Barnes and Nathan Ruby share some game-changing insights that'll transform how you build connections, strength those relationships, and ultimately connect more people to your organization. Support the showThe Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim...
2024-10-3024 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipEmbracing Risk and Building Tenacity in Nonprofit LeadershipSend us a textWhat happens when nonprofit leaders embrace risk and cultivate tenacity? Join hosts Tim Barnes and Nathan Ruby as they uncover key strategies to help nonprofit leaders thrive amidst challenges...strategies such as cultivating a strong sense of purpose, embracing challenges and learning from failures, fostering a positive organizational culture, and keeping the big picture in mind.Support the showThe Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Executive Vice President of International Association for R...
2024-10-2327 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipNavigating Your Nonprofit In An Election Year with Christina EdwardsSend us a textA contentious national election can bring challenges to many aspects of leading a nonprofit...not the least the fundraising side. How should a nonprofit leader handle political conversations with staff, board members, and donors? How does fundraising change during this season? At what level should a nonprofit engage in public political discourse?On today's episode, Christina Edwards joins Nathan to discuss the challenges of leading a nonprofit during a national election. Christina, Founder of Splendid Consulting and the host of the popular Purpose & Profit Club podcast, is a frequent guest on the P...
2024-09-1124 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipEmbracing AI to Revolutionize Nonprofit Fundraising with Nathan RubySend us a textEver find yourself intrigued by the potential of artificial intelligence to transform the way we connect with donors and enhance our fundraising efforts? In this episode, Nathan discusses three ways that AI can help improve fundraising efforts:Automate Everyday Tasks: AI is all about simplifying tasks, not complicating them. For instance, using the voice assistant on your phone (like Siri) to set reminders or send messages to donors can save you valuable time. This is a simple yet effective use of AI that doesn't cost anything e...
2024-04-1717 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership4 Key Ingredients To Successfully Fundraise For Your Nonprofit.Send us a textFundraising and making Chili are a lot alike. There is no one way to make chili or to fundraise. But in both cases, having the right ingredients to get started is very important. On today's episode, Tim and Nathan share four key ingredients every nonprofit needs before they can maximize their fundraising. And they explore how to get those ingredients into your own fundraising efforts.Be sure to consider joining the Practice Community. Not only will you be a part of supporting this podcast but you will receive exclusive content...
2024-02-2127 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipGuiding Nonprofits Through Election Season: Navigating Politics and MissionSend us a textFrom national to local, one of the most challenging seasons of a nonprofit executive director is leading your organization during a contentious election year. An even greater challenge is when the mission of your organization becomes a significant issue in the political dialogue.On today's episode, Tim and Nathan provide some key actions steps to take when navigating this challenging season. Sharing stories and insights from their own leadership journeys, they provide some practical wisdom on engaging with those who have different points of view and looking ahead to plan for po...
2024-02-1431 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipHow To Tell Your Board You Fell Short Of Your Fundraising Goal -Delivering Bad NewsSend us a textSo what do you do when you have to tell your Board that you fell short of your fundraising goal?Communicating bad news to your Board can be tough, especially when it concerns finances. But as an Executive Director, it's part of the job. On today's episode, Tim and Nathan guide you through the sensitive process of delivering less-than-stellar news to your nonprofit board. Expect to walk away with a blueprint for honest, direct communication that lays out the facts . The discussion also looks at the importance of developing a re...
2024-02-0725 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipWelcome to 2024 - Our Three WordsSend us a textWith this 2024 Kickoff episode, Season 4 of the Practice of Nonprofit Leadership begins! And what better way to begin then with Tim and Nathan revealing their Three Words for 2024. The concept of Three Words is to select words that will serve as a compass for the year. These words help to direct the individuals focus and energy and also provide an opportunity for accountability.Tim and Nathan were introduced to the concept of My Three Words By Chris Brogan. You can find out more about the concept and listen to Chr...
2024-01-3119 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipPowering Up Non-Profit Leadership: Reflections and Strategies for the New YearSend us a textAs one year comes to a close and a new year is on the horizon, how should a nonprofit leader prepare for what lies ahead?On today's episode, Tim and Nathan share some of the questions and strategies they use to prepare for a new year. The questions lead them to take a look back and then to look forward. The questions include celebration, honesty, hope, and challenge. Taking the time to reflect backwards and then look forward, provides the opportunity to start off the year with a sense of confidence and...
2023-12-2032 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipLeveling Up Your Nonprofit Leadership: Taking A Year-End Self-EvaluationSend us a textAnother year is quickly coming to an end. As preparations are being made for a new year, taking time to review the past year is an important habit to develop. A key question to ask is, "How did my leadership measure up this year?"On today's episode, Tim and Nathan discuss four key areas to consider when reviewing your leadership this year. Sharing actions step plus personal insights, this episode will help you get ready for an effective new year, as you take time to learn from your experience in the pre...
2023-12-1331 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipDemystifying Fundraising Metrics: Practical Insights Into Tracking Your FundraisingSend us a textReady to demystify the world of fundraising metrics? Nathan spends time googling "Fundraising Metrics"; Tim...not so much. But they both know the importance and the cautions with using specific metrics when tracking nonprofit fundraising.On today's episode, Nathan walks us through four key fundraising metrics (Gift Size, Number of New Donors, Cost of Dollar Raised, and Return on Investment - ROI), why nonprofit leaders should be tracking them and how to make sure that they don't "lie" to you.If you are a nonprofit executive director, a n...
2023-11-2932 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipThe Power of Gratitude in Non-Profit LeadershipSend us a textHave you ever noticed how the simplest 'thank you' can light up your day? On today's episode, Tim and Nathan discuss how gratitude can transform your non-profit organization's culture and amplify your leadership, including the impact on the mental well-being of non-profit leaders, despite the challenges they face.Speaking from experience, the guys share insights into the application of gratitude in everyday situations, and the invaluable effect it can have on your team's satisfaction and retention. They reveal actionable steps to foster a culture of appreciation, from maintaining a d...
2023-11-2128 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipMastering the Art of Budgeting for Non-Profit Organizations - part 2Send us a textEver feel like you're stumbling in the dark when it comes to budgeting for your non-profit organization? The thought of revenue planning and expense analysis might seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. In part 2 of our focus on nonprofit budgeting, Tim and Nathan, are here to guide you through this financial labyrinth with clarity and ease. We provide you with a fresh perspective on how to evaluate and forecast your revenue sources, making budgeting less of a mystery and more of a manageable task. From revenue to exp...
2023-11-1535 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipMastering the Art of Budgeting for Non-Profit Organizations - Part 1Send us a textReady to supercharge your non-profit's budgeting process? Join us, your hosts Tim Barnes and Nathan Ruby, as we disclose the keys to effective financial planning for non-profit organizations. We guarantee you'll walk away with actionable strategies to align your budget with your organization's mission, identify opportunities, and assess what's working and what's not. Our candid conversations will highlight the importance of thinking big and planning strategically, giving you the tools you need to flourish in the non-profit world.Here are the 5 key points when putting together your nonprofit budget:
2023-11-0835 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipAvoiding Legal Pitfalls in Non-Profit Staff Serving As VolunteersSend us a textCan nonprofit staff members also serve as volunteers in the organization at which they work? Good question! Small nonprofits with limited staff and volunteers, often see this as a way to get needed roles filled. But it's complicated!On today's episode, Tim and Nathan dive into what is an important but sometimes murky topic. Important because if not handled correctly, it could lead to legal issues down the road. By the way...Tim and Nathan are not attorneys so any advice given is from experience only and any a...
2023-09-0622 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership4 Steps to Enhancing Leadership Skills Through Physical Health and WellnessSend us a textWhat if one of the secrets to becoming a more effective leader was as simple as prioritizing your physical health?In today's episode, Tim and Nathan unravel their personal journeys towards better health and how it has transformed their leadership skills. They delve into how lifestyle changes and mindset adjustments have helped them achieve their health goals - and how these changes have had a profound impact on their stress management capabilities and overall leadership.The conversation concludes with practical tips for achieving healthy weight loss and...
2023-08-3029 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipFinding Your Life Purpose as a Nonprofit LeaderSend us a textIs your Life Purpose the same as the purpose of the organization that you lead?On today's episode, Tim and Nathan discuss the importance of discovering your life purpose and how that impacts your personal leadership. Sharing from their own journeys, several concepts are shared...such as understanding the personal uniqueness of life purpose, paying attention to your strengths and values, and putting aside time for self-reflection, and the importance of not losing yourself in your work.If you would like to comment or continue the discussion, connect with Ti...
2023-07-2627 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipSummer School for Leaders: Enhancing Your Skills through the Lens of Elementary MathSend us a textAre you ready to sharpen your leadership skills this summer? No school bus or homework involved, just a fresh perspective on leadership through the lens of elementary math. Join your hosts, Tim Barnes and Nathan Ruby, as they challenge you to add, subtract, multiply, and divide, not numbers, but aspects of your personal and organizational leadership. Tune in and let's go back to summer school together!Resource Mentioned in the Podcast: Atomic Habits by Jame ClearSupport the show
2023-06-2825 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipNonprofit Financial Statements And The Story They Tell.Send us a textNumbers. Especially numbers on a financial statement. Did you realize that numbers tell a story...the story of the priorities, focus, effectiveness, and challenges of an organization.On today's episode, Tim and Nathan dive into the primary financial statements that a nonprofit should have and the story they each tell. Tim breaks down each statement and what to be looking for. 4 practical tips are provided to Executive Directors on what to do with the financial statements and what to look for.Here are three links to resources that...
2023-05-3138 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership3 Types of Nonprofit Events and How to Use ThemSend us a textGolf tournaments, 5ks, or banquets. Are you planning an event for your nonprofit?On today's episode , Tim and Nathan discuss the 3 primary types of nonprofit events and how they best fit with you and your organization. They answer the question as to whether every event is a fundraiser, share the key secret to every event, and provide a "pro tip" at the end of the episode.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Executive Vice...
2023-05-2432 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership3 Documents to Pay Attention to Before It's Too Late.Send us a textOften the things that are important but not urgent are set aside and forgotten...until it's too late. On today's episode, Tim and Nathan discuss three of those items: Board meeting minutes, Donor notes, and Bylaws. The items are discussed as to their importance and practical steps to keep them updated and ready to use are shared.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Executive Vice President of International Association for Refugees (IAFR) and can...
2023-05-1732 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipMental Health and the Executive DirectorSend us a textMay is Mental Health Awareness Month and today's episode is focused on how Mental Health can impact an Executive Director's leadership. Mental Health expert and national youth speaker, Brittany Richmond, joins Tim and Nathan to discuss his important topic.For more information about Brittany's work or to contact her, you can go here.Mentioned in this podcast: The Gap and Gain by Dan SullivanThe Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the...
2023-05-1033 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipSocial Media and the NonprofitSend us a textOn todays episode, Tim and Nathan discuss social media policy and practice with Sabrina Burkiewicz , an independent communication consultant. Some of the topics they explore are:Why does a nonprofit need a defined social media policy and what components should be part of an effective policy? Who is included in the policy and what happens if the policy is violated?What is the best way to use social media as a nonprofit?How should social media be used in a crisis?Sabrina Burkiewicz has 18 years of corporate and nonprofit pu...
2023-05-0331 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipPerfectionism....The Challenge to DelegationSend us a textAs a follow up to Episode 75 on Delegation, today's episode of PNPL looks at how perfectionism gets in the way of nonprofit leaders ability to delegate. In their discussion, Tim and Nathan provide 4 actions to take that can help stop perfectionism getting in the way of needed delegation.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Executive Vice President of International Association for Refugees (IAFR) and can be contacted at tim@iafr.org. Nathan Ruby serves as...
2023-04-2622 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipMeetings...Yes, No, Or Just Send An Email?Send us a textDo you feel like your life is just a series of meetings? Do you really need all those meetings when leading a nonprofit?On today's episode, Tim and Nathan dive into "all things meetings". In their discussion they explore the following questions: What are the typical kinds of meetings in a nonprofit? What makes for a successful meeting?How do you know when you need a meeting and or when you don't?Resource mentioned in the podcast: Death By Meeting - Patrick LencioniThe...
2023-04-1934 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipGetting Everyone On The Same PageSend us a textThere are lots of stakeholders in a nonprofit organization, from the Board to staff, volunteers, and donors. One of the big challenges for an Executive Director is help them all get on the same page, ensuring organizational alignment.On today's episode, Tim dives into the topic of organizational alignment by sharing 3 benefits that comes from being organizationally aligned and 5 actions that an Executive Director can take to help move all the stakeholders to operate on the same page.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:
2023-04-1213 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipFinding The Right Tool To Solve Your Leadership ChallengesSend us a textLeading a nonprofit organization, requires the use of tools (apps, software, electronic equipment) both personally and organizationally. But how do you decide which tools to select and use>On today's episode, Tim and Nathan dive into the topic of tools for your organization by discussing the following:Two questions to ask before investing in a new tool.One piece of advice they have found helpful when looking for a new tool to solve their problem.One pro tip on what to do before buying that tool.The Hosts o...
2023-04-0534 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership4 Questions To Ask Before Starting A New ProgramSend us a textYou are excited about expanding the work of your nonprofit and are looking at adding a new program. But have you asked the important questions before launching out:Does it fit with our vision and mission?Is this program really needed?Do we have what we need (staff, space, funding)?How will we define success?Tim and Nathan dive into these questions and share from their experiences working in the nonprofit world.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes se...
2023-03-2928 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipBanking Challenges and the Nonprofit OrganizationSend us a textHow might the current upheaval in the banking industry impact small or medium nonprofits? What actions could nonprofit leaders take to help minimize the risk?On today's episode, Tim and Nathan explore the current challenges in the banking industry and look at the possible impact on nonprofits. They also propose 3 overarching actions that could be taken to minimize the risk to your organization.Note: Tim and Nathan are not financial advisors, attorneys, or accountants. Information shared on this podcast should not be taken as financial advice and...
2023-03-2225 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership4 Questions To Answer When Preparing To Meet With A DonorSend us a textThe time is right to meet with that donor. But then questions flood your mind. "Where should we meet?" "What should I wear?" "What materials should I take?" "What should be on the agenda?"On today's episode, Nathan answers these questions and provides some practical ideas to consider when planning a donor meeting.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Executive Vice President of International Association for Refugees (IAFR) and can be contacted at tim@iafr.org.
2023-03-1520 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipAI and Nonprofits...Can They Work Together for Good?Send us a textShould Nonprofits be using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their work? And if so, to what extent?On today's episode, Nathan and special co-host, Christina Edwards from Splendid Consulting discuss the pros and cons of AI and how even small nonprofits can take advantage of AI to save time and increase their impact.On this episode, the following tools are mentioned:- Canva, a design program that has a free version for qualifying nonprofits. https://www.canva.com/- Grammarly, an online wri...
2023-03-0830 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipExecutive Director and Board Chair - Staying On The Same TeamSend us a textOf all the relationships in a nonprofit organization, one of the most crucial is that of the Executive Director and Board Chair. That relationship has the power to keep the organization on track and running smoothly, or to bring it to a slow pace full of barricades and potholes. And like any relationship, it takes time, effort, and communication to work well.On today's episode, Tim and Nathan explore this important relationship and offer some practical advice on how to stay on the same team.To get...
2023-03-0127 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipDelegation... A Key to Successful Nonprofit LeadershipSend us a textWhat runs through your mind when looking at your overwhelming to-do list? Do you ever think about who might be able to take on one or more the items on your list?On today's episode, Tim and Nathan dive into the topic of delegation and how it is a key to successful nonprofit leadership. Their discussion strives to answer the following three questions:Why don't leaders delegate?Who should leaders delegate to?How do leaders delegate...without "dumping"?To get in contact with us, go to www.nonprofitleader.online, or...
2023-02-2226 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipHow Do I Spend My Day As A Nonprofit Executive Director?Send us a textThe question Nathan and Tim get asked the most is " how do I raise funds for my nonprofit?" The second most asked question is "how do I spend my day?"On today's episode, Nathan and Tim dive into 4 simple steps to consider when determining how you, as a nonprofit executive director, should be spending your day.To get in contact with us, go to www.nonprofitleader.online, or use the emails below.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:
2023-02-1531 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipHow Do We Pay For This? 3 Tips On Fundraising For Your NonprofitSend us a textYou have great ideas and initiatives for the new year. You hope to add program and staff. But the question comes up..."How do we pay for this?"On today's episode, Tim and Nathan discuss 3 tips that an Executive Director needs to take when fundraising for their organization. Practical, yet important if you want to pay for your initiatives, programs, and staff.Here is a link to Jeffrey Gitomer's book on Selling, mentioned in the podcast.To get the details and sign up for the...
2023-02-0825 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership3 Questions To Ask Before Adding Staff to Your Nonprofit OrganizationSend us a textAfter listening to the last episode on Identifying Key Initiatives, you may be thinking "I Need Help". Maybe you are ready to go put a job opening on Indeed. Before you do, listen to Tim and Nathan discuss the 3 questions an Executive Director should ask before beginning the hiring process. The questions are:Who Do You Need?What Will They Need?What Will They Do?Jim Collins' book BE 2.0, referenced in this podcast, can be accessed here.To get the details and sign...
2023-02-0126 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipKey Initiatives....How to Decide Where Your Organization is HeadedSend us a textWe have truly jumped into 2023 and activities, programs, and projects are ramping up. But are you sure your organization is focused on the right initiatives? Where will you focus your energy, resources, and staff?In this episode, Tim and Nathan provide insight on how to choose your organization's key initiatives. They explore how to review what is currently happening, what programs or projects could be ramped up or closed down, or what new opportunities might be out there. The episode finishes with 4 reminders as you consider your key initiative for...
2023-01-2531 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipTim and Nathan's 3 Words RevealedSend us a textIn episode 65, Tim and Nathan talked about Living with Intent in 2023. At that time, they introduced the concept of 3 Words, where one chooses 3 words that will provide focus and intent for that year.On today's episode, Tim and Nathan reveal their 3 words for 2023, why they chose them, and how they see them playing out. They also provide a few reminders on how to choose and use the 3 word concept.To indicate interest in the 2023 Masterclass on Fundraising mentioned in this episode, you can go here.
2023-01-1823 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership4 Things We Are Bringing To 2023Send us a textTim and Nathan are back from their holiday break. In this episode, Tim and Nathan reflect on the ideas and thoughts they had during their break and how they are bringing them to their work and personal life in 2023...ideas that may be helpful to consider for your 2023.To indicate interest in the 2023 Masterclass on Fundraising mentioned in this episode, you can go here.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Ex...
2023-01-1126 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipCancelling Mission Drift In 2023Send us a textHappy New Year! Tim and Nathan are finishing up their holiday break.On today's episode, Tim explores the concept of Mission Drift...how it happens, the results of mission drift and how to prevent it from happening in 2023.To indicate interest in the 2023 Masterclass on Fundraising mentioned in this episode, you can go here.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Executive Vice President of International Association for Refugees (IAFR) and ca...
2023-01-0414 minThe Practice of Nonprofit Leadership3 Leadership Mindsets for 2023Send us a textIn preparing for 2023, what Leadership Mindsets should you take into the new year?On today's episode, Nathan focuses on 3 Leadership mindsets that are important to consider as you prepare for the new year ahead. Nathan also provides a practical application for each mindset.The Mindsets discussed are:1. Focus on Outcomes2. Communicate a Clear Vision3. Get Good at DelegatingTo indicate interest in the 2023 Masterclass on Fundraising mentioned in this episode, you can go here.Th...
2022-12-2820 minThe Practice of Nonprofit LeadershipClosing 2022 With These 4 ActionsSend us a textWhat does the last two weeks of 2022 look like for you? In this episode, Tim shares 4 actions that he and Nathan are taking in these last two weeks of 2022. The actions are:RestReviewCelebratePrepareTo indicate interest in the 2023 Masterclass on Fundraising mentioned in this episode, you can go here.The Hosts of The Practice of NonProfit Leadership:Tim Barnes serves as the Executive Vice President of International Association for Refugees (IAFR) and can be contacted at tim@iafr.org.
2022-12-2106 min