Shows
Volunteer Nation199. The Future of Volunteerism - Trends & Predictions Part 2In this episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson continues her deep dive into the future of volunteerism with Part 2 of her trends and predictions series. Building on the first three trends covered in Episode 198, Tobi explores how wellness, technology, data, and evolving models of giving are reshaping how volunteers engage and what leaders need to prepare for next. Inspired by futurist Faith Popcorn’s question, “If you knew everything about tomorrow, what would you do differently today?”, this episode is both a practical roadmap and a strategic thought experiment for volunteer leaders...
2026-01-2934 minVolunteer Nation198. The Future of Volunteerism - Trends & Predictions Part 1In this episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson shares Part 1 of her 2026 trends and predictions for the future of volunteerism. This is the first half of a two-part series exploring 8 major shifts shaping how communities show up, how volunteer-driven organizations build trust, and what leaders of volunteers must pay attention to in the year ahead. Tobi dives into the first three big trends: accountability, mutual aid, and new psychological insights into belonging and community. Full show notes: 198. The Future of Volunteerism - Trends & Predictions Part 1 Future of Volunteerism - E...
2026-01-2228 minVolunteer Nation196. Behind the Scenes of 10 Years of Industry Research with Pam Kappelides & Allison Russell – Part 1To mark 10 years of the Volunteer Management Progress Report (VMPR), Tobi Johnson hands the mic to nonprofit scholar Allison Russell for a behind-the-scenes conversation about what it really takes to produce a decade-long, global research study, without grant funding, institutional backing, or a full research team. Joined by longtime research partner Pam Kappelides, this episode explores why volunteer engagement research matters more than ever, how practice-informed research gets done, and what practitioners can learn (and apply) from the VMPR process. Full show notes: 196. Behind the Scenes of 10 Years of Industry Research with Pam Kappelides & Allison Ru...
2026-01-0855 minVolunteer Nation193. Building Influence with Impact with Chris Wade and Matthew CobbleHow do volunteer leaders move from being seen as “extra hands” to strategic drivers of mission success? In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson is joined by Chris Wade and Matthew Cobble, co-hosts of the Time for Impact Podcast in the UK, for a practical and thought-provoking conversation about building influence through impact. Together, they explore why volunteering needs to be reframed as community participation and talent, not just unpaid labor and how leaders of volunteers can use data, stories, and strategic thinking to elevate their role inside organizations. This episode...
2025-12-181h 05Volunteer Nation192. Respect the Work: How to Protect Copyright in the Age of SharingIn this episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson tackles a topic that’s becoming increasingly urgent in the nonprofit and volunteer engagement world: copyright, intellectual property, and the ethics of sharing content. As a content creator, trainer, and consultant, Tobi has seen a growing wave of copyright misuse, most often unintentional, but still harmful. From lifted slide decks to copied models to repurposed blog posts, the misuse of intellectual property not only creates legal risks but erodes trust within our professional community. This episode is your practical, plain-language guide to understanding copyright, protecting your...
2025-12-1143 minVolunteer Nation191. Who is Ultimately Responsible for Your Org's Volunteer Culture?In this episode of Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson breaks down a common misconception in the nonprofit world: Who is ultimately responsible for shaping your organization’s volunteer culture? After receiving pushback from a newsletter statement, Tobi walks us through the deeper nuance of volunteer culture, how it forms, why it goes wrong, and most importantly, why the CEO, not the volunteer manager, is the true culture owner. Whether you’re a leader of volunteers or a senior executive, this episode will give you clarity, relief, and a roadmap for healthier culture-building moving forward! Full...
2025-12-0430 minVolunteer Nation189. How to Use a Communications Audit to Recruit More VolunteersIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson breaks down why it’s one of the smartest, most powerful tools nonprofits can use to attract more aligned, motivated volunteers. Often, the issue isn’t a lack of interest from the community; it’s that your communication isn’t connecting, isn’t clear, or isn’t consistent across platforms. Tobi walks through the three core areas to examine when evaluating your volunteer recruitment efforts and explains how even small refinements can dramatically increase inquiries, improve onboarding, and strengthen your brand presence. By the end, you’ll see your volunt...
2025-11-2021 minVolunteer Nation188. Let's Talk Volunteering with Weave: the Social Fabric ProjectIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson shares a webinar featuring Jennifer Bennett of Idealist and Travis Sternhagen, Volunteer Manager at Kinship Community Food Center. The episode delves into the transformative community-centric approach adopted by Kinship, emphasizing mutual aid, trust, and relationships over traditional transactional models of volunteerism. Tobi and Jennifer discuss the challenges and strategies involved in fostering a sense of community among volunteers and service recipients alike, highlighting practical steps and profound insights shared by Travis. This episode offers invaluable guidance for anyone looking to reinvigorate volunteer engagement by making it deeply r...
2025-11-1359 minVolunteer Nation187. Bold Leadership – Celebrating IVMDay with Nicole SmithIn this inspiring episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson celebrates International Volunteer Managers Day with special guest Nicole Smith, Executive Director of Alive. Together, they dive into this year’s powerful theme — “Be Bold and Make Change.” Nicole brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation, sharing what it really takes to lead boldly in today’s volunteer management landscape. From strategic advocacy and clear communication to accountability and continuous improvement, she offers practical wisdom for leaders who want to make a lasting impact. Tobi and Nicole also get real about common chall...
2025-11-061h 00Volunteer Nation186. Strategy vs Tactics - How to Include Both in Your Volunteer PlanningIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson breaks down one of the biggest pitfalls in volunteer planning: confusing strategy with tactics. She explains why a plan that’s just a long list of tasks will never move your mission forward and what to do instead. If you're ready to shift from “busy and reactive” to “focused and strategic,” this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable guidance. Plus, Tobi introduces Vision Week 2026, a hands-on, five-day planning experience designed to help you confidently create your annual volunteer engagement plan with expert support! Full show notes...
2025-10-3027 minVolunteer Nation185. To Burnout & Back - My Secret Struggle with Long COVIDIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson steps away from her usual format to share her journey through long COVID, from the first onset of symptoms to the long road of recovery. Tobi opens up about the physical and emotional challenges she faced, the lessons learned along the way, and the radical self-care practices that helped her heal. She also reflects on what this experience taught her about compassion, resilience, and the hidden toll of chronic conditions. Whether you’re navigating long COVID, struggling with burnout or chronic fatigue, or supporting someone who...
2025-10-2357 minVolunteer Nation184. The Experience Economy – Are Nonprofits Keeping Up?In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson unpacks how the experience economy is reshaping the way nonprofits engage and retain volunteers. Building on last week’s discussion about the evolving volunteer marketplace, Tobi explains why it’s no longer enough to simply offer opportunities — today’s volunteers expect meaningful, memorable, and transformative experiences. If you’re ready to meet modern volunteer expectations and create experiences that truly stand out, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! Full show notes: 184. The Experience Economy – Are Nonprofits Keeping Up? Exp...
2025-10-1640 minVolunteer Nation183. The New Reality - Volunteers Don't Need YouIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson tackles a bold question: has the volunteer–nonprofit relationship changed for good? As societal expectations and volunteer trends evolve, Tobi explains why today’s landscape looks more like a buyer’s market, where volunteers have countless options and expect meaningful, flexible, and well-designed experiences. She explores the rise of informal volunteering, the growing need for adaptable roles, and the impact of digital engagement on volunteer satisfaction. Discover why traditional volunteer management models no longer work and how nonprofits can create engaging, modern experiences that attract and keep...
2025-10-0950 minVolunteer Nation182. The 8 Game-Changing Policies That Make Volunteers Say WOW!In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson builds on her previous conversation about harmful volunteer policies by introducing eight transformative strategies to attract and retain passionate volunteers. From creating a welcoming environment and offering flexible commitments to tailoring screening to risk levels and delivering engaging, bite-sized training, Tobi covers practical ways to elevate your volunteer program. She also highlights the power of real-time recognition, fostering volunteer autonomy, supporting volunteers through life events, and maintaining vibrant alumni networks. Tune in for actionable insights that will help you energize your volunteers, cultivate loyalty, and cr...
2025-10-0222 minVolunteer Nation181. The 8 Volunteer Policies That Are Killing Your MissionIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson uncovers eight common volunteer policies that could be hurting your mission. From poor first impressions and slow communication to overly complicated screening processes, inflexible commitments, dull training, micromanagement, lack of recognition, and difficult exit procedures, Tobi breaks down the pitfalls that can frustrate and disengage volunteers. You’ll get real-world examples of these challenges and actionable strategies for creating a more volunteer-friendly culture. Plus, Tobi shares a practical self-assessment checklist so your organization can identify problem areas and make improvements that boost volunteer engagement, satisfaction, and impact!
2025-09-3024 minVolunteer Nation180. 3 Smart Ways to Design Volunteer Service AwardsIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson explores smart, research-backed frameworks for designing meaningful volunteer service awards. Instead of relying on traditional recognition tactics, she shows how to align awards with what truly drives volunteers—their motivations, timelines, and the impact they create. Tobi introduces fresh ideas such as immediate recognition and milestone-based acknowledgements, while also breaking down six proven motivational factors that inspire volunteers. Packed with actionable strategies, this episode is a must for any organization looking to elevate its volunteer appreciation efforts and strengthen long-term engagement. Full show notes: 180. 3 Smart Ways...
2025-09-1836 minVolunteer Nation178. 6 Ways to Help Program Volunteers Avoid Compassion FatigueIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives deep into the critical issue of compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress among program volunteers. These frontline heroes play vital roles in tutoring, hospice, crisis support and more, but without proper training, boundaries, and support, they risk burnout and emotional harm. Tobi shares six practical ways nonprofit leaders can use to support volunteer wellness, from boundary-setting to debriefing practices and resilience training. Full show notes: 178. 6 Ways to Help Program Volunteers Avoid Compassion Fatigue Program Volunteers - Episode Highlights [00:25] -
2025-09-0436 minVolunteer Nation177. Manage Volunteers Like a Pro: 7 Rookie Mistakes and How to Avoid ThemIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives into the 7 common rookie mistakes non-profits make when managing volunteers and shares practical strategies to help volunteer managers reduce stress and rediscover the joy in their work. Tobi highlights the power of maintaining a positive mindset, setting clear boundaries, and focusing on community-building over paperwork. She also shares actionable tips for creating effective systems for delegation, engaging episodic volunteers for long-term impact, and prioritizing warm, relationship-driven recruitment strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer manager or just starting out, this episode is packed with insi...
2025-08-2837 minVolunteer Nation176. Beyond Pizza Parties: Innovative Appreciation Ideas for VolunteersIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the importance of strategic volunteer appreciation. Moving beyond traditional gifts and certificates, she explores how to recognize and value volunteers in ways that are meaningful and aligned with core human needs and organizational goals. Tobi provides 12 innovative appreciation ideas categorized into meeting volunteer needs for safety, connection, and purpose, and aligning with organizational goals such as program quality, DEIJ, and donor engagement. You'll learn how to create impactful and heartfelt recognition that sustains both volunteers and the mission of their organizations! Full show notes: 176. Be...
2025-08-2125 minVolunteer Nation175. Outputs vs Outcomes: Why Counting Hours Isn’t EnoughIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives into why it’s time to move beyond traditional volunteer metrics like hours logged and retention rates. She unpacks the difference between outputs and outcomes, sharing practical examples and actionable strategies for measuring and showcasing the true impact volunteers have on communities and organizations. Tobi explains how tracking outcomes can inspire volunteers, improve program quality, strengthen recruitment messaging, guide strategic decisions, and demonstrate real value to stakeholders. You’ll also learn how to create visual graphics to communicate these outcomes! Full show notes: 175. Outputs vs Out...
2025-08-1535 minVolunteer Nation174. Write Volunteer Emails Volunteers Actually Read (and Love)In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson shares expert tips on how to craft volunteer emails that truly connect and convert. From attention-grabbing subject lines to warm, welcoming salutations and easy-to-read content, Tobi breaks down the key elements that make emails more engaging and effective. You’ll learn why personalization matters, how to structure your emails for maximum impact, and the small details, like a creative sign-off or a compelling P.S. that can make a big difference. Plus, Tobi offers practical strategies like A/B testing your subject lines, using email tools for sma...
2025-08-0724 minVolunteer Nation173. Is Your Volunteer Website Turning People Away?In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson shares valuable insights on how nonprofits can improve volunteer websites to attract and engage more volunteers effectively. Addressing common issues such as unclear value propositions, excessive choice options, stock imagery, and poor mobile experiences, Tobi discusses practical strategies to create a compelling and user-friendly volunteer hub. She emphasizes the importance of clear calls to action, authentic visuals, social proof, and urgency to convert visitors into active volunteers. With actionable tips and a focus on modern user behavior, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide to optimizing nonprofit we...
2025-07-3146 minVolunteer Nation172. How to Give Clear Volunteer Feedback with ConfidenceDo you find it uncomfortable giving feedback to volunteers? You're not alone! In this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson walks you through how to deliver clear, confident feedback to your volunteers in a way that fosters growth, maintains trust, and avoids discomfort. Whether it's reinforcing great behavior or correcting issues, Tobi shares real examples and practical scripts you can start using right away. You'll learn the difference between corrective, confirming, and the coercive feedback you should avoid at all costs. Plus, Tobi explains how a little preparation and a whole lot of clarity can ma...
2025-07-2426 minVolunteer Nation171. Practical Community Building Tips for Your Volunteer TeamIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson dives into the heart of what makes a volunteer team truly thrive: community. Drawing from both personal experience and well-established sociological principles, Tobi explores five essential pillars that foster a sense of belonging and connection among volunteers and between volunteers and staff. This episode is a must-listen for volunteer leaders who want to create a more collaborative, motivated, and mission-driven team. Whether you're just getting started or looking to reinvigorate your program, you’ll walk away with simple, actionable steps to strengthen your community and boost engagement. Full...
2025-07-1728 minVolunteer Nation170. My Top Takeaways from Giving USA 2025In this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson dives into the key findings from the Giving USA 2025 report and uncovers the powerful link between volunteerism and philanthropy. Tobi explores how individual donors and volunteer leaders are shaping the future of nonprofit fundraising, and why community support has never been more essential. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, volunteer coordinator, or board member, you'll walk away with actionable tips for harnessing the power of volunteers to boost giving and deepen your organization’s impact. Full show notes: 170. My Top Takeaways from Giving USA 2025
2025-07-1038 minVolunteer Nation169. How to Meet 3 Core Volunteer Needs Right from the StartIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson dives into the essential human needs that drive a meaningful and rewarding volunteer experience—safety, connection, and purpose. Tobi explores how creating a predictable, emotionally safe environment lays the foundation for trust. She explains why fostering strong peer connections is just as crucial as delivering information, and how helping volunteers see the direct impact of their efforts brings deeper meaning to their service. Full show notes: 169. How to Meet 3 Core Volunteer Needs Right from the Start Volunteer Needs - Epi...
2025-07-0331 minVolunteer Nation168. Note to Nonprofit Execs - Supporting Volunteers is Everyone's JobIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson addresses a persistent and deeply rooted challenge in the nonprofit sector: the lack of buy-in and active support for volunteers across entire organizations—not just within volunteer departments. Drawing from the VolunteerPro Impact Lab seminar and a decade of data from the Volunteer Management Progress Report, Tobi urges nonprofit executives to reframe volunteer support as a staff performance issue, not a matter of personal "buy-in." She shares practical strategies for building a culture where volunteers are valued, supported, and integrated throughout all levels of an organization. If your nonprofit dep...
2025-06-2627 minVolunteer Nation166. Train Volunteers with This Simple 4-Step FrameworkIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson shares a simple yet powerful four-step framework to help you train volunteers more effectively. Drawing on decades of experience in instructional design and facilitation, Tobi breaks down what makes training truly impactful and what to avoid. Whether you're building a new training from scratch or refreshing your current approach, this episode will help you streamline your process, boost volunteer confidence, and focus on what really matters: preparing volunteers to take meaningful action. Full show notes: 166. Train Volunteers with This Simple 4-Step Framework Train Volunteers - E...
2025-06-1226 minVolunteer Nation164. Moving from Volunteer Compliance to Building Your Nonprofit CommunityIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson unpacks a powerful mindset shift in the nonprofit world: moving beyond volunteer compliance and toward building a thriving volunteer community. Tobi explores the delicate balance between ensuring accountability and fostering genuine connection, trust, and shared purpose among your volunteers. Through real-world insights and practical examples, she contrasts the limiting effects of compliance-heavy approaches with the energizing impact of community-focused strategies. You’ll discover how overemphasis on rules can dampen enthusiasm and engagement, while leading with mission, mutual respect, and collaboration can boost volunteer retention, motivation, and teamwork. ...
2025-05-2936 minVolunteer Nation162. The #1 Secret to Deep Volunteer ParticipationIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson dives into one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, tools for volunteer engagement: human connection. Tobi reminds us that it's not tech tools or training manuals that drive true engagement, it's trust, belonging, and meaningful relationships. Tobi unpacks why emotional closeness matters in volunteerism and shares six practical ways to cultivate connection, from hosting informal social gatherings to designing team-based roles, co-creating shared identity, and even rethinking your forms and onboarding processes. You’ll also hear personal reflections and actionable tips to help you upgrade your volu...
2025-05-1540 minVolunteer Nation161. Leadership Principles for Sparking Change – Part 2 with Jenni FieldIn this powerful follow-up episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson continues her insightful conversation with Jenni Field, diving deeper into the leadership principles that drive meaningful change, especially for those managing volunteers. Together, they unpack the nuanced differences between authenticity and vulnerability in leadership, highlighting how empathy, flexibility, and consistent action can earn trust and credibility with both volunteers and colleagues. Tobi and Jenni also offer guidance on recognizing signs of credibility challenges and what to do about them. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to volunteer management, this episode is full of...
2025-05-0841 minVolunteer Nation160. Leadership Principles for Sparking Change – Part 1 with Jenni FieldIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, Tobi Johnson sits down with leadership and communications expert Jenni Field for an insightful conversation about what it really takes to lead with credibility in the nonprofit world. Jenni shares practical, research-backed strategies for building trust, fostering supportive team cultures, and leading with clarity—especially during times of change. Drawing from her extensive experience and her latest book, she unpacks how values-driven leadership can guide organizations through uncertainty and strengthen internal culture. This is part one of a two-part series you won’t want to miss! Full show no...
2025-05-0143 minVolunteer Nation159. How to Hire a Future Proof Volunteer CoordinatorIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson breaks down exactly what it takes to hire a future proof volunteer coordinator who can lead with confidence and adaptability. Given how vital this role is in representing your organization and engaging your volunteers, hiring the right person matters more than ever! Tobi walks you through 8 essential steps to build a strong hiring foundation. From understanding volunteer coordination best practices and deciding if the position should be paid or volunteer, to writing a compelling job description and offering a fair wage. She also dives into how to a...
2025-04-2445 minVolunteer Nation158. Nonprofit Capacity Building with the Community Foundation for a greater RichmondIn this episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, host Tobi Johnson sits down with Diana Villarreal and Gail Cavallaro from the Community Foundation for greater Richmond to explore how strategic volunteer engagement is shaping the future of nonprofits. Diana and Gail share the foundation’s mission and walk us through its inspiring history, along with the wide range of programs designed to support nonprofit growth at every level—from individuals to entire networks. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, volunteer manager, or simply passionate about community building, this episode offers valuable insights into what’s possible when phi...
2025-04-171h 06Volunteer Nation157. A Fresh Take on Volunteer Position DescriptionsIn this episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson challenges the status quo of traditional volunteer position descriptions. She explores why the standard, task-heavy approach often falls flat and shares how a simple shift in language and structure can dramatically improve volunteer recruitment. Tobi introduces creative alternatives—like adding impact statements, showcasing team values, and sharing volunteer testimonials—that speak to both the hearts and minds of prospective volunteers. You'll also hear practical, easy-to-implement tips, such as renaming your descriptions to "Volunteer Opportunities" and reframing responsibilities as meaningful accomplishments. If you’re looking to attract...
2025-04-1027 minVolunteer Nation156. People-first Leadership & Strengthening Teams with Dr. Rob LionIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson invites Dr. Rob Lion onto the show to discuss people-first leadership and fostering stronger collaboration between paid staff and volunteers. Dr. Rob Lion is a professor, consultant, and principal of Black River Performance Management, who shares expert insights on creating a human-centric organizational culture. Together, they explore key strategies for effective communication, trust-building, and conflict resolution—essential elements for nurturing a supportive and engaged team. The conversation also highlights actionable steps that volunteer coordinators can take to enhance volunteer engagement and make a lasting impact from their pos...
2025-04-031h 10Volunteer Nation155. Entitled or Exploited? Part 2 Volunteer Responsibilities AND RightsIn this episode of Volunteer Nation, host Tobi Johnson dives deep into the ethical and fair treatment of volunteers. She introduces the Volunteer Bill of Rights, outlining ten essential rights every volunteer should have, from being valued and trained to working in a safe environment. But rights are only part of the equation. Tobi also explores ten key responsibilities volunteers should uphold, such as committing to the organization’s mission and respecting boundaries. This insightful conversation highlights the importance of mutual respect and accountability, aiming to build a positive, inclusive, and productive volunteer culture. Don’t miss this...
2025-03-2742 minVolunteer Nation151. Reimagining Nonprofit Membership & Volunteer Engagement with Alice GlennIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson is joined by Alice Glenn, President of the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI). Tobi and Alice delve into innovative approaches to nonprofit membership and volunteer engagement, particularly within associations, chapters, and membership-based nonprofits. Alice shares insights into developing volunteer leadership pipelines and modernizing governance models. She emphasizes the importance of aligning volunteer experiences with personal skill development and community impact. They also explore the crucial role of advocacy and cross-sector partnerships in addressing community needs, highlighting practical strategies for effective volunteer-fueled advocacy, and share gu...
2025-02-2759 minVolunteer Nation149. Nonprofit Advocacy Strategies – A ChecklistIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, host Tobi Johnson provides an in-depth discussion on nonprofit advocacy strategies. Tobi talks about the immediate need for nonprofit advocacy and shares five key strategies to effectively engage in advocacy efforts. These strategies include public awareness and education, media and digital advocacy, grassroots mobilization, engaging policymakers without lobbying, and legal and policy advocacy. The episode emphasizes the importance of involving volunteers in advocacy efforts and provides practical tips on how to engage and train volunteers as advocates!Full show notes: 149. Nonprofit Advocacy Strategies – A Checklist ...
2025-02-1337 minVolunteer Nation142. Our Top 6 Volunteer Nation Podcast Episodes from 2024In this holiday-themed episode of The Volunteer Nation Podcast, host Tobi Johnson shares the top 6 Volunteer Nation Podcast episodes from 2024! Themes include transitioning from doer to nonprofit leader, transforming volunteer leadership, successful volunteer coordination, effective volunteer management, boosting volunteer signups, and volunteer retention strategies. As we come to the end of the year, we want to say thank you for tuning in and continuing to support us. Wishing you all the very best for 2025! Full show notes: 142. Our Top 6 Volunteer Nation Podcast Episodes from 2024 Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nat...
2024-12-2631 minVolunteer Nation138. Building Community in an Uncertain (and Sometimes Scary) WorldIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson shares an insightful discussion from a recent VolunteerPro membership coaching call. The episode dives deep into ways to create safe, inclusive spaces for volunteers, particularly in uncertain times marked by social and political divisions. Tobi emphasizes the importance of building community and acknowledging the non-profit sector's expertise in this area. She highlights how reinforcing norms, establishing rituals, and offering spaces for emotional debriefing can foster a sense of safety and belonging. The episode also includes bonus tips from members on celebrating positive team culture, acknowledging strides in i...
2024-11-2844 minVolunteer Nation137. Volunteer Stats, Trends, and Benchmarks We're Researching Right NowIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Volunteer Management Progress Report survey. Tobi reflects on the evolution of the survey over the past decade and its significant contributions to the field of volunteer management. This year's theme focuses on volunteer recruitment, aiming to gather detailed data on effective tactics and challenges. Tobi also details the survey development process and emphasizes the importance of participation for generating valuable insights! Full show notes: 137. Volunteer Stats, Trends, and Benchmarks We're Researching Right Now Thanks for listening to thi...
2024-11-2146 minVolunteer Nation136. Getting Back to Neighboring with Breauna DorelusIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the concept of neighboring and its importance in building and sustaining volunteer programs with guest, Breauna Dorelus. They explore the idea of neighboring as a verb and its role in countering societal divisiveness, fostering community involvement, and ensuring the sustainability of nonprofits. Breauna shares her insights on dismantling harmful volunteer practices and emphasizes the need for community engagement and the reimagination of volunteerism. The pair also address the nuances of navigating identities in outreach work, the necessity of holding space for community feedback, and the importance o...
2024-11-141h 21Volunteer Nation135. How to Use Video Storytelling to Connect with Aaron Walton and Emmanuel LeGrairIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into the potent potential of video storytelling in nonprofit and volunteer sectors. Joined by video storytelling experts Aaron Walton and Emmanuel LeGrair, this discussion focuses on how video can emotionally engage viewers, share compelling stories, and ultimately drive volunteer recruitment and donor engagement. They share practical tips for getting started with minimal resources, the importance of authentic storytelling, and key factors to consider when hiring professional production services. They also emphasize the importance of community and innovation in nonprofit work. Tune in for actionable insights on l...
2024-11-071h 10Volunteer Nation133. My Secrets to Building Buy In & Reducing Resistance to ChangeIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into her secrets to building buy in and reducing resistance to change within nonprofit organizations. Drawing on her extensive 25-year background in the nonprofit sector, Tobi delivers actionable insights and techniques for leaders of volunteers and nonprofit professionals facing implementation challenges. The episode covers the significance of involving stakeholders in decision-making, the power of maintaining strong leadership relationships, and the necessity of a written plan as the 'language of leadership.’ Tobi shares practical stories and examples, explores the role of safety protocols, metrics, and process simplification, and...
2024-10-2436 minVolunteer Nation130. How to Build a Volunteer Plan for 2025In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson provides practical advice on how to build a strategic volunteer plan for 2025. As we approach Q4 of 2024, Tobi discusses the importance of aligning volunteer activities with organizational goals and the need for a clear, concise plan to navigate common challenges like recruitment, retention, and resource allocation. She outlines a three-step planning framework (Ready, Set, Go) and emphasizes the benefits of having a strategic volunteer plan, which includes improved alignment, efficiency, resource management, and impact. Tobi also introduces the upcoming Vision Week, a bootcamp designed to help organizations d...
2024-10-0333 minVolunteer Nation125. Diversity & Women in the Workplace: Claim You Space with Amira BargerIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson invites strategic communications and marketing counselor, Amira Barger for an enlightening discussion on diversity and women in the workplace. They explore the unique challenges faced by women, the role of organizations in addressing systemic inequities, and the importance of advocacy and taking up space. Amira shares her personal journey and experiences, offering practical advice for empowerment and the value of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and inclusive leadership. They also touch on volunteer management, burnout, the positive disruption necessary for social change, and strategies for creating a m...
2024-08-291h 04Volunteer Nation124. Equity Tools for Nonprofits Volunteerism with Faiza VenzantIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson invites Faiza Venzant onto the show to discuss equity tools for nonprofits volunteerism. They highlight the ADEVI project and the Equity to Action Toolkit, which has been designed to integrate more inclusivity and equity into volunteer programs. Faiza shares insights from her work and personal journey, including her upbringing and professional experiences that shaped her commitment to diversity and equity. The pair also discuss the importance of understanding volunteer demographics and the need for organizations to actively create inclusive environments. Full show notes: 124. Equity Tools fo...
2024-08-221h 09Volunteer Nation120. 10 Volunteer Interview Questions for a Perfect MatchIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson shares 10 volunteer interview questions for a perfect match to ensure a good fit between the volunteers and the organization's roles, tasks, and mission. She emphasizes the significance of understanding volunteers' motivations, skills, and values to enhance retention and create an enjoyable volunteering experience. Tobi also highlights the benefits of conducting tours, making interviews conversational, and how you can involve volunteers in the process! Full show notes: 120. 10 Volunteer Interview Questions for a Perfect Match Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation pod...
2024-07-2530 minVolunteer Nation119. Volunteer Manager Salary & Career Paths with Megan VixieIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, host Tobi Johnson interviews Megan Vixie, Chief Engagement Officer at Beach Cities Health District, about volunteer manager salary levels and career paths. They discuss the importance of volunteerism, Megan's journey in volunteer engagement, and the professional career pathway survey conducted by the Association for Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE). The pair explore strategies for negotiating salaries and benefits, the importance of professional development, the creation of a job leveling document to advocate for volunteer engagement professionals, as well as highlighting actionable insights for both volunteer managers and organizational l...
2024-07-181h 00Volunteer Nation116. New Ways of Thinking About Volunteer Data & Tech with Chris MartinIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, host Tobi Johnson is in Manchester, England, speaking with Chris Martin from TeamKinetic. They explore new ways of thinking about volunteer data and tech, covering topics such as the role of AI, open data, reusable personal credentials, and techniques for efficiently tracking volunteer hours. Chris shares his journey from being a physical education teacher to becoming a tech entrepreneur, detailing how TeamKinetic aims to simplify volunteering through innovative technologies. The discussion highlights the need for the volunteer sector to adopt advanced technologies to streamline volunteer engagement and encourage seamless participation, a...
2024-06-271h 05Volunteer Nation115. Your Quick Guide to Amazing Volunteer EventsIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, host Tobi Johnson offers a comprehensive guide on planning successful volunteer events. Tobi shares her insights and favorite tips on how to organize events that engage and bond volunteers, making them feel valued and connected. Drawing from her experiences attending various events and conferences, she emphasizes the importance of in-person gatherings, setting clear goals, providing great food, and creating a sense of belonging. The episode also covers practical advice on inclusivity, effective invitations, event logistics, entertainment, and evaluating the success of your events. Tune in for actionable strategies to make...
2024-06-2033 minVolunteer Nation114. Volunteerism Statistics for 2024: Insights from Our Latest Research - Part 2In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the findings from the Volunteer Management Progress Report. This is part two of a two-part series focusing on volunteerism statistics for 2024, offering insights on the internal support within organizations for those leading volunteers. Tobi highlights the importance of leadership support, the challenges faced by volunteer managers, and the correlation between leadership backing and volunteer manager job satisfaction and retention. The episode emphasizes the need for a pro-volunteer culture to boost organizational sustainability and community engagement. Full show notes: 114 - Volunteerism Statistics for 2024: Insights from Our...
2024-06-1335 minVolunteer Nation113. Volunteerism Statistics for 2024: Insights from Our Latest Research - Part 1In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, host Tobi Johnson delves into volunteerism statistics for 2024, sharing insights from the latest Volunteer Management Progress Report. Tobi discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on volunteer capacity, the challenges of recruitment and retention, and provides a detailed look at trends in active volunteer numbers and volunteer hours. Additionally, Tobi highlights the importance of understanding organizational goals and progress in volunteer engagement, offering a comprehensive analysis of the current state of volunteerism. Key findings include the average number of active volunteers, monthly volunteer hours, the role of volunteer coordinators, an...
2024-06-0639 minVolunteer Nation112. How to Run a Value-Packed Volunteer Q&AIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into the undervalued yet powerful tactic of running effective volunteer Q&A sessions. Tobi discusses the goals of a good Q&A, including making volunteers feel heard, offering relevant information, and gathering valuable insights. She provides practical tips for conducting high-impact Q&A sessions, such as leaving your ego at the door, setting aside ample time, showing empathy, and telling stories. She also highlights when to build Q&A sessions into your volunteer programs and various formats they can take. This episode aims to help organizations e...
2024-05-3027 minVolunteer Nation111. New Volunteer Orientation: What to Include, What to Leave OutIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into the vital topic of new volunteer orientation. Tobi offers detailed insights on what to include and what to avoid, ensuring a successful onboarding process that fosters long-term commitment.She emphasizes the importance of addressing both informational and emotional needs of volunteers, integrating confidence-building activities, socialization opportunities, and inspirational storytelling. Tobi also shares practical tips on avoiding common training pitfalls like information overload and stresses the importance of making confident, unapologetic asks. Full show notes: Episode 111. New Volunteer Orientation: What to Include, What to...
2024-05-2324 minVolunteer Nation109. When a Scarcity Mentality Becomes a HabitIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, host Tobi Johnson discusses the widespread issue of scarcity mentality within the nonprofit sector and how it limits organizations' ability to grow and engage volunteers effectively. Tobi emphasizes that this mentality leads organizations to focus on constraints rather than opportunities, hindering investment in volunteers and the infrastructure supporting them. She highlights the importance of viewing spending on volunteer programs as an investment, rather than a cost and shares practical tips on shifting mindset, calling out scarcity when it appears, and ensuring organizations provide sufficient support and resources for volunteers i...
2024-05-0921 minVolunteer Nation108. Definition of a Volunteer - Why It Matters to Be PreciseIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into the nuanced and often overlooked topic of clearly defining a volunteer and why it matters to be precise. Tobi shares insights into the definitions provided by various authoritative bodies like the Department of Labor in the U.S., the United Nations, and the implications for nonprofits in handling volunteers according to labor laws and tax regulations. She also advises non-profit organizations to consult with labor lawyers and CPAs for legal and tax advice to ensure they remain compliant while fostering a healthy, transparent, and respectful e...
2024-05-0224 minVolunteer Nation107. Celebrating National Volunteer Week 2024!In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson celebrates National Volunteer Week 2024, and shares insights into the history and significance of volunteerism! Tobi also highlights the challenges facing the nonprofit sector, including a decline in donor contributions, a labor shortage crisis impacting mission delivery, and decreased volunteer rates. Tobi emphasizes the promise and impact of an engaged community in supporting nonprofits, how the nonprofit sector can innovate volunteer engagement and the power that volunteerism has on our communities. Full show notes: Episode 107. Celebrating National Volunteer Week 2024! Thanks for listening to...
2024-04-2530 minVolunteer Nation106. Smarter Volunteer Program AssessmentIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson shares insightful tips on how to create smarter volunteer program assessments, without the need for expensive external consultants. Tobi discusses the importance of learning from assessments to grow volunteer programs and shares her step-by-step plan for performing a DIY program audit. Tobi also discusses the importance of learning from assessments to grow volunteer programs and shares her step-by-step plan for performing a volunteer program assessment, discussing how to involve your volunteers, the talking points to include and much more. Full show notes: Episode 106. Smarter Volunteer Program As...
2024-04-1834 minVolunteer Nation104. The WOW! Volunteer ExperienceIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the importance of providing a wow volunteer experience. She emphasizes that beyond traditional methods of appreciation, designing a well-run program plays a crucial role in volunteer satisfaction. Tobi also shares a personal story to illustrate the impact of outstanding service and introduces the 'WOW' acronym to break down the components of a great volunteer experience: Warm, Optimistic, and Well-designed. It’s an insightful discussion that shows you how you can create memorable and exceptional volunteer experience for your organization! Full show notes: Episode 104. The WOW! Volunteer Ex...
2024-04-0421 minVolunteer Nation103. Win-Win Community Service ProjectsIn this episode of Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses how you can create win-win community service projects, and delves into the different types of community service, outlining effective strategies for designing quality projects, and maintaining good relationships with referring organizations. Tobi discusses the nuances of managing community service projects, particularly those that are court ordered, the ethical considerations and practical aspects of integrating such projects into volunteer programs, emphasizing the importance of creating a win-win scenario for both the organization and participants. Full show notes: Episode 103. Win-Win Community Service Projects Th...
2024-03-2834 minVolunteer Nation100. Fan Faves from 100 Volunteer Nation EpisodesIn the 100th episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson takes a moment to reflect on the journey of creating 100 episodes since its start on April 11, 2022. To celebrate, Tobi revisits some of the past episodes, offering insights and highlights for new and long-time listeners alike. This milestone episode includes a special countdown of the top 10 most downloaded episodes, covering a range of topics such as volunteer engagement, recruitment strategies, and innovative models in volunteerism research. Tobi shares key learnings and the impact these discussions have had on volunteering communities, emphasizing the role of volunteerism in...
2024-03-0740 minVolunteer Nation98. How to Meet Volunteer Needs with 7 Solid PivotsIn this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the crucial need for organizations to meet the needs of their volunteers in order to sustain their operations. Tobi addresses the common issue of dwindling volunteer engagement, exacerbated by the pandemic, warning that if change is not embraced, organizations risk losing even more momentum and volunteers. Within this episode, Tobi also proposes seven pivotal mindset shifts in volunteer management and how adopting these shifts will enable your organization to better align with the expectations of volunteers and provide an effective, meaningful, supportive environment leading to increased v...
2024-02-2231 minVolunteer Nation91. 6 New Years Resolution Ideas for NonprofitsIt’s that time of the year, when people are setting goals and aspirations for the new year. In the spirit of intention setting and renewal, host Tobi Johnson shares some New Years resolution ideas for nonprofits in this episode, specifically about how they can better engage the community in their good works.From cultivating gratitude and setting healthy boundaries to enhancing wellness and personal growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights to kick-start your nonprofit's success in 2024. Her insights will inspire you to lead your nonprofit organization with intention. We hope this episode inspires you. Hap...
2024-01-0429 minVolunteer Nation90. Improving Volunteer Experiences & Raising More Funds with Kristina CarlsonIn this episode, guest Kristina Joy Carlson and host Tobi Johnson share valuable insights on improving volunteer experiences through the power of the KIND method. From navigating turbulent times to cultivating deep commitment even in conflict, they offer practical strategies for nonprofit success and creating meaningful connections with volunteers and donors.Their conversation also highlighted the potential for volunteers and donors to connect and contribute to causes that resonate with their values. Volunteers provide a meeting ground where people from diverse backgrounds come together for common causes, transcending political and social divisions. If you’re passionate about bu...
2023-12-2846 minVolunteer Nation89. Strategic Volunteer Recruitment Ideas for 2024Looking for fresh volunteer recruitment ideas? Look no further. In this episode, Volunteer Nation host Tobi Johnson provides practical tips and big ideas to attract and retain volunteers, drawing from volunteer experiences and the current landscape of volunteerism as reflected in comments of a recent Washington Post article.Tobi also addresses the systemic issues in volunteerism, such as organizational inefficiency, lack of appreciation, and the need for skilled leadership. He shares valuable insights on improving website content and usability to better engage and retain volunteers.Full show notes: 089. Strategic Volunteer Recruitment Ideas for 2024...
2023-12-2244 minVolunteer Nation88. Research on Volunteer Participation What You Need to Know with Helen TourleIn this episode, host Tobi Johnson sits down with special guest Helen Tourle, a senior consultant for volunteering at the National Council for Voluntary Organizations (NCVO). Together, they delve into the history of the Time Well Spent research series and findings of the most recent study, focusing on volunteer experiences among the global majority. The discuss key takeaways from the report, the impact of emotions on volunteers, and strategies for enhancing volunteer engagement. Join us as we uncover crucial insights for creating inclusive and fulfilling volunteer opportunities, and be prepared to be inspired to make positive changes...
2023-12-1451 minVolunteer Nation86. Converting Episodic Volunteers into Long-term SupportersIn this episode, host Tobi Johnson talks about the challenge of retaining episodic volunteers who step up to help during the holiday season but often disappear afterwards. Tobi shares a 4-part culture of commitment formula that sets the stage for deeper levels of commitment, discusses the importance of creating a purposeful onboarding plan even for one-time volunteers, and gives strategies for delegating, leading with ease, and using storytelling to share volunteer results.Tobi also delves into the concept of journey mapping, exploring the volunteer experience from start to finish, and poses insightful questions to help you assess...
2023-11-3027 minVolunteer Nation85. BIG Volunteer Goals for 2024 – Four ExamplesIn this Volunteer Nation host, Tobi Johnson, dives deep into the art of goal-setting. She shares practical tips and real-life examples to inspire and guide you in establishing meaningful and impactful volunteer goals for your charitable cause, membership, or movement.The episode is a must-listen, even if you didn't attend our recent VisionWeek strategic planning bootcamp event. Remember, it's never too late to set meaningful goals for the year ahead. Regardless of whether you participated in VisionWeek or not, the insights shared in this podcast episode can provide valuable guidance and inspiration as you chart a course...
2023-11-2226 minVolunteer Nation79. Nonprofit SEO: How to Get Found on GoogleIn this episode, Tobi Johnson dives deep into the world of nonprofit SEO and how it can revolutionize your volunteer recruitment efforts. SEO might sound like a foreign concept, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring that your organization can be easily found by potential volunteers on the world's most popular search engine – Google.Full show notes: 079. Nonprofit SEO: How to Get Found on GoogleThanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more pe...
2023-10-1239 minVolunteer Nation49. Behind the Scenes at Our VolunteerPro Membership MakeoverIn this week’s episode, Tobi offers a peek behind the curtain at the process of developing new VolunteerPro curriculum – in this case, for our newly updated VolunteerPro Membership learning hub!She’s also sharing some of her key takeaways when it comes to developing online learning that will be enormously helpful to anyone tasked with developing new training for volunteers or coworkers.Full show notes: 049-Behind the Scenes at Our VolunteerPro Membership Makeover! - Tobi Johnson & AssociatesThanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed...
2023-03-1645 minVolunteer Nation48. New Statistics on Volunteering & Civic Life with Dr Mary HydeIn this week’s episode, we welcome guest Dr. Mary Hyde from AmeriCorps to share some fascinating results from the most recent Volunteer Engagement and Civic Life census supplement. These results shine a light on both the enduring spirit of volunteerism in America – even during the height of the pandemic – and what the data can tell us about future trends in formal and informal volunteering. The latest Volunteering and Civic Engagement in America survey was conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic, and while the results showed an expected drop in formal volunteering (giving time freely to help oth...
2023-03-0949 minVolunteer Nation47. The State of Volunteer Engagement with Dr. Sue Kahl and Dr. Nathan DietzIn this week’s episode, we welcome guests Dr. Sue Carter Kahl and Dr. Nathan Dietz to discuss two fascinating new studies on the state of volunteer engagement.These reports offer the unique perspectives and feedback of nonprofit CEOs and funders and it is enlightening to view the value of volunteer service through their eyes, especially as it relates to program funding.Full show notes: 047-The State of Volunteer Engagement with Dr. Sue Kahl and Dr. Nathan Dietz - Tobi Johnson & AssociatesThanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nat...
2023-03-0259 minVolunteer Nation46. Save Time with Better Volunteer Management SystemsSoccer is all about moving the ball down the field as efficiently as possible and making a goal before your opponent has a chance to catch up. And if you’ve watched one particular Premier League team this year (looking at you, Chelsea!), you’ve seen them lose many opportunities to score because they hesitate and take one too many steps before taking a shot on goal (and if you’re nearby, you may have heard Tobi yelling at the television!).Volunteers can often, unintentionally, get stuck by those same feelings of hesitation. They know they need to mov...
2023-02-2330 minVolunteer Nation45. Build a Smarter Volunteer Retention StrategyWhat do volunteers experience while serving at your organization? Why do volunteers want to stay? And why do some volunteers decide to leave? In this episode, Tobi offers a closer look at how to design a more purposeful user experience for every step of your potential volunteer’s journey, and how to build a smarter volunteer retention strategy with intention and information. Full show notes: 045-Build a Smarter Volunteer Retention Strategy - Tobi Johnson & AssociatesThanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be su...
2023-02-1622 minVolunteer Nation44. 6 Creative Ways to Recruit VolunteersWhen we think about recruiting volunteers, too often we focus on pushing out a big appeal as many times as possible on as many platforms as possible. But…what if you could apply some strategy and creativity to the process to reach the right people for your call to action and offer more meaningful volunteer opportunities?In this episode, Tobi offers six creative ways to recruit volunteers along with some fresh thinking around that evergreen task: volunteer recruitment.Full show notes: 044-6 Creative Ways to Recruit Volunteers - Tobi Johnson & AssociatesTh...
2023-02-0932 minVolunteer Nation43. How to Tap AmeriCorps Grants & Resources with Sharon Tewksbury-BloomIn this year’s Volunteer Management Progress Report, both time and volunteer recruitment were top challenges for leaders of volunteers. Just imagine if you could bring more program development and recruitment assistance onboard through AmeriCorps grants and resources – how would that change your trajectory for 2023?On this episode, we welcome expert Sharon Tewksbury-Bloom to discuss best practices for including AmeriCorps service workers in your organization’s mission, how to partner with other participating local organizations to expand your capacity, and the steps you can take when applying for AmeriCorps grants.Full show notes: 043-How to Tap Am...
2023-02-0248 minVolunteer Nation42. Why Your Volunteer Recruitment Isn't Working (and What to Do Instead)We often think that, just because our marketing isn’t delivering the results we want, people in the community aren’t interested in our cause or volunteering in general. It’s an easy assumption to make, but the truth is that if you make even a few small changes in your approach, you can realize some big results.In this week’s episode, Tobi looks at five big reasons why your volunteer recruitment isn’t working, and shares some fresh ideas on what to do instead.Full show notes: 042-Why Your Volunteer Recruitment Isn't Working - Tobi John...
2023-01-2629 minVolunteer Nation41. Volunteer Management Trends for 2023 - Our New Data with Jamie Gaylor Part 2Every year the Volunteer Management Progress Report survey includes the following question: “What is your biggest challenge?” Survey participants are allowed to share answers as short or as long as needed to express their thoughts, and responses run the gamut from brief and to-the-point like “recruitment” to compelling stories of individual struggles and courage in the face of adversity.In this week’s episode, Tobi continues her conversation with VolunteerPro’s Marketing Manager Jamie Gaylor about the top challenges revealed by the answers to that question and offers her expert advice on how to overcome those issues...
2023-01-1950 minVolunteer Nation40. Volunteer Management Trends for 2023 - Our New Data with Jamie Gaylor Part 1Ever wondered how the results for VolPro’s annual Volunteer Management Progress Report are tabulated and analyzed? In this week’s episode, Tobi is joined by VolPro’s Marketing Manager Jamie Gaylor to discuss the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into producing this report each year, and what the results indicate for volunteer management trends in 2023.Full show notes: 040-Volunteer Management Trends for 2023, Part 1 - Tobi Johnson & AssociatesThanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach m...
2023-01-1227 minVolunteer Nation39. Predictions and Trends in Volunteerism for 2023Who else is excited to welcome 2023 and to say goodbye to 2022? It just feels like a fresh start and a great place to put a stake in the ground to confidently say we’re moving forward, and we’re going to build our best year yet! Before we do that, though, Tobi takes a look back at some of the trends in volunteerism over the last few years, both pre-and post-covid, to make some predictions on where the sector is headed and what’s going to be important for leaders of volunteers in the coming year. Ful...
2023-01-0525 minVolunteer Nation38. New Year's Resolution Ideas for NonprofitsHere at VolunteerPro, our focus for 2023 is all about optimization of all our systems. We have an awesome team and great systems in place to to keep everything running smoothly, but we can always do better. We’re using the next twelve months to find (or create) ways to fill in the gaps, look at our data, and perfect everything we do. Our big question: how can we do this better? In this episode, Tobi challenges you with the same question: what can you do better, especially when it comes to engaging the community in your...
2022-12-2921 minVolunteer Nation37. Our Top 10 Nonprofit Blog Posts of 2022Did you Know: in addition to producing two podcasts (Volunteer Nation and the Time+Talent Podcast with Jennifer Bennett), Tobi also writes a weekly nonprofit blog? There are literally hundreds of in-depth posts, each with a wealth of information you can apply to your volunteer program. And as a holiday gift to you, Tobi is counting down the top 10 fan favorites from both the VolunteerPro and Tobi Johnson & Associates websites to get you started. These are the posts that garnered the most attention and visits, and they’re sure to be of high value to you...
2022-12-2233 minVolunteer Nation36. 5 Nonprofit KPIs Your Volunteer Program Should be TrackingYour volunteer program’s KPIs are like your vital signs. Think about it – when you go to your doctor, what does the nurse do first? Check your vitals – weight, blood pressure, pulse oxygen, urinalysis, blood work. These numbers help to quickly assess your level of wellness, and they give your medical team direction to locate problems and determine whether a treatment plan is working. The same goes for nonprofit programs, including your volunteer engagement strategy. Knowing your nonprofit KPIs for volunteers can help you identify early issues and assess whether certain interventions are making a differen...
2022-12-1528 minVolunteer Nation35. 6 Ways to Prevent Burnout in NonprofitsThe last 2+ years have been undeniably challenging, and many nonprofit leaders have struggled to keep a sense of passion for their work. Even when you love what you do like Tobi, you’re not immune to the symptoms of burnout and fatigue. First of all, what is burnout? Tobi shares a definition from the World Health Organization, and examines the three main indicators to watch out for. Tobi also shares a great resource from Christina Maslach, one of the world’s pre-imminent researchers on burnout in the workplace. Maslach has identified five levels of people’s work ex...
2022-12-0828 minVolunteer Nation34. Your Nonprofit Strategic Plan for VolunteersHere’s a question: when you take a quick scan of the past year, how would you describe it in a word or two?What did your 2022 feel like? What did you achieve? What did you wish you would have achieved? If you’re a mission-driven person who sets high goals for yourself, you might have used the words – disappointing, an uphill battle, confusing, chaotic, and exhausting. Now, imagine your best outcomes for 2023 – what words would you use at the end of the year? What would you achieve? How would volunteers be involved? How would you feel ab...
2022-12-0120 minVolunteer Nation33. New Research on Volunteer Funding with Dana LitwinThis week, Tobi sits down with strategic volunteer engagement expert and consultant Dana Litwin to talk about a brand new research project in the volunteer sector, and how the data uncovered in that research can help connect organizations and potential funders more effectively. Tobi and Dana discuss some of the common barriers to volunteer funding, including the disconnect between what grant writers are asking for and what potential funders are willing to offer. Dana offers suggestions on how to specifically and confidently express what you need for your program and how nonprofit executive leadership can mo...
2022-11-2441 minVolunteer Nation32. How to Utilize Volunteers for Giving Tuesday with Julia CampbellThis week, Tobi sits down with author and fundraising expert Julia Campbell to talk about ways for nonprofits to get involved in Giving Tuesday, and how to include volunteers. Nonprofits usually focus their Giving Tuesday strategies around a fundraising push. Tobi and Julia look at ways to craft those Giving Tuesday pitches effectively, and ways they can quickly go wrong. As with any fundraising effort, how you express it, when you express it, and to whom you express it all matter. Julia gives her tips on how to construct a fundraising strategy around the momentum th...
2022-11-1747 minVolunteer Nation31. Rethinking the Volunteer Engagement Cycle with Lori GotliebThis week Tobi welcomes Lori Gotlieb to the show to talk about the volunteer engagement cycle, and some of the innovations going on throughout the sector right now. Tobi and Lori discuss each of the steps in the traditional volunteer engagement cycle: role design, risk management, recruitment, screening, orientation and training, supervision and support, and recognition. Lori shares the ways these roles have shifted and what areas leaders of volunteers will need to focus on to stay relevant AND offer their volunteer team the absolute best service experience. Full show notes: 031-Rethinking the Volu...
2022-11-1051 minVolunteer Nation30. From Disruption to Impact with Beth Steinhorn and Jerome TennilleThis week, Tobi welcomes authors Beth Steinhorn and Jerome Tennille to discuss how organizations have responded to the volunteer disruption they’ve experienced over the past few years, and what lessons can be learned. The pandemic brought some vulnerabilities to light in our sector and sparked some innovation in spite of the challenges nonprofits faced due to lockdowns. Ageism, fear of transmitting the virus, shutdowns, loss of in-person volunteering AND an increased need for many services...these are just a few of the volunteer disruptions we all faced over the last few years. This upheaval, and...
2022-11-031h 00Volunteer Nation29. Evolutions in Corporate Social Responsibility with Chris JarvisThis week, Tobi sits down with Chris Jarvis from Realized Worth to talk about corporate social responsibility (and what that oft-used term really means), as well as how to nurture your volunteers through three stages of commitment, and how volunteers are literally changing the world by serving their communities. First of all, what the heck is “corporate social responsibility” anyway? There are some often-heard, sometimes obscure terms used when describing a corporate “giving back to the community” focus. CSR, ESG, CR…all these acronyms identify a version of the same idea: companies encouraging employees to serve as volunteers i...
2022-10-2759 minVolunteer Nation28. How Nonprofits Can Use Podcasts to Build Community with Anthony WilsonHave you ever considered starting a podcast to tell the world about your organization? Podcast creators can strategically use podcasts to build community around a common interest or goal, create awareness about their organizations, and even raise needed funds for their cause. And, it may not be as hard as you think! This week, Tobi sits down with Anthony Wilson, founder and host of the Groupfinity Podcast, to talk about ways to do just that. Full show notes: 028-How Nonprofits Can Use Podcasts to Build Community with Anthony Wilson - Tobi Johnson & Associates...
2022-10-2058 minVolunteer Nation27. Secrets to Building a Sense of Community with VolunteersDo you remember the first time you experienced a sense of community with other people? It may have been a team sport, an academic group, or a faith-based gathering. For Tobi, it was the Norpoint Dashers middle school soccer team! But what exactly made that sense of community so strong? Tobi examines the core ingredients that all healthy communities share and applies those principles to volunteer programs. Tobi also shares some of the unique challenges and benefits of online communities and shares expert advice on how to build, nurture, and manage your virtual volunteers.
2022-10-1324 minVolunteer Nation26. Hiring? What to Include in Your Volunteer Coordinator Job DescriptionWhat should be included in a volunteer coordinator job description? (And is that even the right title for the job you’re hiring for?)Leaders of volunteers can go by many names…coordinator, manager, supervisor, or director, to name a few. In this week’s podcast, Tobi breaks down the job duties that each title should contain (in an ideal world) and details the most important skills and abilities hiring managers should include in their volunteer coordinator job description. Finding the right person for the right role is key, and a well-written volunteer coordinator job descrip...
2022-10-0632 minVolunteer Nation25. Nonprofit Tech Transformation + Wellness with Beth KanterHere at VolPro, we’ve been following Beth Kanter for a LONG time – since 2009 when Tobi started her consulting practice (only two years after smart phones first hit the market … and Beth had already been blogging for six years)! Beth is an internationally recognized thought leader and trainer in nonprofit tech, digital transformation, and well-being in the workplace. She is the co-author of the award-winning Happy Healthy Nonprofit: Impact without Burnout and co-author with Allison Fine of the bestselling The Networked Nonprofit. Beth’s first book introduced us to the idea that nonprofit tech was directly...
2022-09-2949 minVolunteer Nation17. My Top 12 Nonprofit Leadership Tips Learned the Hard WayAfter 30+ years working with nonprofit organizations and more than a decade of nonprofit consulting, Tobi Johnson knows a thing or two about the sector. It hasn’t always been an easy road, and in this week’s podcast, Tobi shares her wisdom and some hard-won lessons from along the way with these top 12 nonprofit leadership tips. Full show notes: 017-My Top 12 Nonprofit Leadership Tips Learned the Hard WayThanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reac...
2022-08-0441 minVolunteer Nation01. Welcome to the Volunteer Nation Podcast!Welcome to Volunteer Nation! I’m your host Tobi Johnson and after over 25 years working in nonprofits, public sector agencies, and grassroots campaigns there’s one thing I’ve learned – you can’t go it alone. If you truly want to bring about BIG change for the better, you need a strong, dedicated community in your corner. But it isn’t always easy, is it? That’s why I created this podcast. Each week I share practical tips and advice to help your cause, charity, campaign, or company build, grow, and scale exceptional volunteer talent. If you’re ready to harnes...
2022-04-1123 min
Time + Talent PodcastWelcome to Season 3!Tobi Johnson, President & Founder of VolunteerPro, and Jennifer Bennett, Director, Education and Training at VolunteerMatch talk about the Season 3 themes and their thoughts on how leaders of volunteers are continuing to adapt and evolve to engaging volunteers during the ongoing pandemic. Season 3 of the Time + Talent Podcast is finally here! Tobi and Jennifer are back to share exciting and inspirational stories from practitioners in the field of volunteer management. We didn’t think we’d still be talking about COVID and a global pandemic in 2022, but we are, and this season highlights the organizations that are not just...
2022-01-2140 min
Time + Talent PodcastWelcome to the T+T Podcast - Bold Practices in Volunteer EngagementTobi Johnson, President & Founder of VolunteerPro, and Jennifer Bennett, Senior Manager, Education & Training at VolunteerMatch talk about why they started the Time + Talent podcast and outline the trends and themes that define this first season. Don't forget to subscribe to this show!
2019-09-0629 min