Nonprofit Lowdown

Friends, join me and my brother from another mother Ron Rapatalo to talk all about the Asian things.

In this riveting podcast episode, the incredible Ron Rapatalo chats about being a leading advocate for AAPI …

In honor of AAPI Heritage month, I’m replaying some of my favorite episodes from AAPI leaders. This episode with North Star Fund’s Jennifer Ching is a personal fave. Enjoy!

Join me and Northstar Fund's Executive …

In honor of AAPI heritage month, we’re featuring AAPI guests. This week’s guest is…me! I’m trying out a new monthly feature called Ask Me Anything (AMA) to answer your fundraising queries. Let me know what you think …

Friends, I am OBSESSED with this episode with Yulin Ling. As a long-time nonprofit executive and social change warrior, we talk about the importance …

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Stephen Powers, co-founder of Open Impact Real Estate, and Amy Lawrence, managing director, as they share their expertise on the intersection of real estate and social impact. 

In this episode, Aron from 2H Media shared some fascinating insights into how nonprofit organizations can use video to boost their donations. With his trademark enthusiasm, Aron explained how video can help to create a …

In our chat with Dana Snyder, she shared four paid ads that nonprofits should run. Here they are: Reach, Video Views, Lead Generation, and …

In this episode, we chat with Tony Martignetti, an expert in planned giving programs. Planned giving is a way for everyday people to make a big impact on their favorite nonprofits by giving a gift through their will or …

My guest, Amy Eisenstein, a fundraising consultant, author, and speaker, shares her expertise on why you SHOULD consider a capital campaign during …

In this episode, we are joined by Britt Savage, a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant who shares insights on the report "Unlocking Social …

In this episode, Pooya Pourak, a design strategist, shares how human-centered design principles can be used to create meaningful connections with …

I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Ellen Wong, a naturopathic doctor and happiness expert.  

During our conversation, Dr. Wong emphasized the importance of understanding that happiness is not a destination, but …

Welcome to the podcast where we talk to successful consultants in various industries. Today we are joined by Tom Pyun, a former nonprofit leader who …

Calling all New York based nonprofits!

In this episode, we speak with Suzi Epstein, Senior Program Officer at the Robin Hood Foundation, and Kim DiPalo, Director of Development and Communications at Drive Change, about …

In this episode, we talk to Miranda Ling, Director of Advancement for 826 Valencia, about how they use Afrofuturism to help raise funds. Miranda …

Join me and one of my favorite repeat guests Greg Warner, CEO of Marketsmart. In this episode, we unpack so much of what is wrong with so-called "best practices" in fundraising and why administrators make fundraisers' …

Today, we're talking about a really cool topic - using hostage negotiation tactics in fundraising. Our guest today is none other than Troy Smith, a …

In this interview, I talk about Donor-Advised Funds or DAFs and crypto donations with Alexis Miller, who is the donor engagement and strategic partnerships lead at Endaoment.  

Listen to this entire podcast episode if …

In this episode, Adam Michael Royston and Marvin Vilma are back and they're diving into the hot topic of East Coast vs. West Coast fundraising. These two fundraising experts have a wealth of experience between them, and …

In this delightful podcast episode, Yamilee Toussaint Beach shares her wealth of knowledge and experience in scaling up her nonprofit STEM from …

In this interview with Jason Frazell, we discuss the three levels of listening and how they can impact our ability to connect with others, …

Happy 2023 everyone! 🎇

To start off our year right, join me and Hardy Smith to discuss his book Stop the Nonprofit Blame Game. Hardy and I touch on some of the hot-button 🔴 issues like why board members don't do what …

We are in our very last week of 2022 and I think we can all agree, it has been a lot. After the upheaval of the pandemic, I feel like life is back to normal-ish. And what I've been hearing from a lot of you is that you …

Happy holidays, friends. As we wind down, I wanted to give you the gift of this podcast episode with my dear friend Glasa Gottschalk. Glasa is a …

Join me and my guests Christal Cherry and Renee Rubin Ross to talk about doing DEIAB work right. Often our boards lag behind the efforts of the staff and this dynamic duo helps to bring your board up to speed on issues …

Join me and co-founder of Pond, Mitch Stein, to talk about the power of community building, the role of trust in doing business with nonprofits and …

When I get depressed about the future and the state of the world, I want you to listen to this podcast episode. Meghana Gunturi is an enterprising …

Man oh man, do I love a good quiz. Chalk it up to my being of the YM generation 📣 (shout out to my Gen X'ers!)

Join me and Brian Saber to deconstruct your Asking Style. Did you know that there are four kinds and that …

Join me and my friend Erika Carley, AKA Queen of Monthly Giving to learn about Chive Charities and their incredible monthly giving program. 4K monthly donors, 98% month-over-month retention rate. Need I say more?

Erika …

The world of obtaining funds through grants can be so confusing and time-consuming. Between prospect research, developing relationships, grant writing, and stewardship, it can feel overwhelming. Join me in today's …

For all my peeps in the nonprofit world, leadership in the last few years has been...a lot.

Between the pandemic, national racial reckoning, economic …

You literally cannot afford to not listen to this podcast. Join me and my friend/financial advisor/girlcrush Marissa Nehlsen to talk all about the money.

We discuss her humble beginnings, her definition of what rich …

Join the epic Joan Garry for a chat about how we attract and retain talent in the sector, how to prepare for the next generation of leaders and why talking to your board about Hawaii makes sense.

Joan has a long history …

Retirement is a Race Issue with Chitra Aiyar. What comes up for you when I say retirement? Are old people golfing in Florida? Think again.

Join me …

When the ED/DoD relationship works it can be a magical thing and set everyone up for success.  When it doesn't...well, it just sucks. What makes the partnership work? 

Join me, DeNora Getachew and Jen Moore as we …

When I was an ED, leading my team sometimes felt like fumbling around in the dark looking for the path forward.
Enter my friend Dr. Patton McDowell. Patton provides a roadmap and framework for nonprofit leaders. …

Ever wondered what an interim Executive Director actually does?
Are they supposed to keep the trains running on time or clean house for the new ED?
What is it like to be the Mary Poppins for an organization in …

Join me and expert fundraiser Sherry Quam Taylor as we talk about making big ass asks. 

We discuss board and staff reluctance to engage personally with donors, how we're mismanaging our board's time and efforts, and …

Ah, times--they are a-changing. In the last year, the dynamics of leading and being responsive to visibility, equity and social justice have never been higher stakes. We know we want to be equity-centered, anti-racist …

In this episode, we’re going to discuss development 3.0 with my friend, Sarah Danzig Simon, the head of development for Uncommon Schools. Join me and …

Happy Black Philanthropy Month! 

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Jackie Copeland who is the founder of Black Philanthropy Month and April Walker, …

This episode is FIRE.  Join me and my friend Dr. Eugene K Choi to discuss how to manage your mind to avoid burnout, anxiety and panic.  Did you know that your brain is only ever in one of two modes: survival or …

Most people think that when you merge nonprofits, or you’re making any significant changes in a nonprofit, it means that there’s terribly wrong that has happened. Right? But in this episode, my guest, Jess Cavagnero, a …

How many times have I seen the idea of junior board rise and then fall like a rock?  Join me and Peter Goldwasser, the Founder of the PNG Group, as …

Hey Gen X Leader: confounded by your millennial and Gen Z staffers? At a loss for how to make an organizational change and DEI happen in my conversation with Leslie Short, the President and the Founder of the CAVU group.

Join me and George Suttles as we talk about the opportunity that Diana Noriega and he have seen together in making a coalition to look for ways in …

Let’s dispel the myth that you can either have donor diversity or donor wealth, but you can’t have both.  In this episode, my dear friend  Hali Lee, the founder of Radiant Strategies and the Asian Women Giving Circle, …

Capital campaign.  Sounds scary, right?  Doesn’t have to be!  Join me and Sabrina Walker Hernandez as she walks through how she raised $12M for a capital campaign in the third poorest county in the US.  We get into all …

Conflict is inevitable in the workplace or in any organization when people with different backgrounds and work styles are brought together for a common business purpose. Conflict is part of dealing with humans. So join …

In this episode, I will be interviewing three alums of the fundraising accelerator program. We have Noelle Andreano, the Director of Development at …

Yolanda’s journey in philanthropy had very interesting inception. It all started when she was in college. She was part of one of the first programs …

In this week's episode, we speak to the amazing Trish Adobea Tchume about her thoughtful piece in the Nonprofit Wakanda Quarterly about what it means …

[Updated--was a snafu with original upload]

Join  me and expert fundraiser Adam-Michael Royston as he unlocks the vault  on some of his secrets. …

Join me and expert fundraiser Adam-Michael Royston as he unlocks the vault on some of his secrets.  He's raised serious money for capital campaigns …

Y'all!  This episode is fire.  My friend and new BFF Mallory breaks down how we embody energy that either attracts or repels money.  We talk about the different types of energy, how to harness the energy and, most …

In order for someone to remark on something, it must be remarkable.  Michelle, Executive Director of the Human Services Council, and I talk about their last video campaigns.  In it, they had the courage to claim an edge …

Andrea is a Managing Partner at BDO which releases an annual State of Nonprofits report.  Join us as we discuss trends from 2020-2021 and opportunities and risks for 2022.  Will individual and foundation giving trends …

Join me and my friends as we tackle the big questions: what does "disrupting" fundraising really mean in theoretical and practical terms?  How do we develop our own theories of change and operation beyond the frameworks …

Join me and my long-time friend Gabe Scheck to talk about how to successfully open, cultivate and solicit gifts from foundations.  Gabe has raised …

Join me and my friend Darren Isom as we discuss the case for endowing Black-led nonprofits.  Darren published a thought-provoking piece in the Stanford Social Innovation Review on this topic and we do a deep dive on how …

Join me and adventurer, writer, environmentalist and former Patagonia executive Rick Ridgeway as talk about his many adventures and his experience in …

Did you know that 5% of your supporters and responsible for 100% of your word-of-mouth referrals?  Do you know how to engage and activate your best …

#realtalk: I never pursued government funding for my nonprofit because I was always so deterred by the administration.  It all seemed so complicated and bureaucratic that I never invested the time and energy to pursue …

I've turned the keys over to my designated driver Patrick Kirby.  Patrick and I talk about my new book Get That Money, Honey.  We talk about my origin story, why I wrote the book and what to expect when you read it. …

Do you freak out when people unsubscribe to your newsletters?  Are you overwhelmed with marketing on different platforms: Facebook, email, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, oh my?  If so, this episode is for you.  Christina, …

I've met my Canadian sister from another mister!  Expert fundraiser Cindy Wagman and I talk about brain science and how it trips us up in fundraising.  By unpacking the ways in which the brain works, we can unlock the …

My new BFF Oly and I have a blast answering all of your questions about boards. Listen to our take on hot topics like board fundraising, changing …

Friends--this episode is a veritable smorgasbord of insights.  Greg, a master marketer, and Dr. Russell James, an academic, break down the data and practices of major gift fundraising.  If you're looking to make bigger, …

In this episode, Derrick Coleman and I discuss some of the top myths about  Black board members.  Some of the top myths: they're not out there, we …

What are some of the biggest mistakes that people make on their homepages?  Are you guilty of it?

Join me and my friend Boris as we discuss …

Otis Rolley, Senior Vice President at the Rockefeller Foundation, discusses his career in government and philanthropy.  We talk about how the …

Sometimes, we're overwhelmed with the enormity of solving problems in the world that we forget small actions can make a difference.  Join me and …

When we're in the role of fundraisers, there is so much that is unsaid and lurking just below the surface.  Join me and my dear friend Christine Lai …

Let's face it: PR and marketing are the first to get cut in a budget.  And yet, you're still the best kept secret in your city?  What gives?  Rebekah walks us through actionable strategies and tips for small nonprofits …

Happy 2022 y'all.  This pod is here to help you start off the new year right by getting money through the door.  Join me and my dear friend Chitra Ayar as we talk about how to get money back from the IRS for all those …

This is a rebroadcast of one of the most popular episodes of 2021 and one of my personal faves.  Happy new year, friends!

Podcast fans, if you …

This is a rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes!  Happy holidays fam!

Happy 2021 to the Nonprofit Lowdown family!  Let's get this 2021 …

As my guest Esther points out, vilifying and stereotyping wealthy people is the last acceptable prejudice.  Join me and Esther Choy as she discusses her research on first-generation wealth creators and how they might be …

This interview is a goldmine, y'all.  I interviewed my friend, Rob Lapidus, who should rightly be considered a major donor by most measures.  He's …

This is a solo show where I'm spilling all the tea on how to get started with your major gift program.  It's not rocket science and it's not magic. …

Ah, Giving Tuesday for fundraisers: it's like Christmas, Tax Day and Lunar New Year all rolled into one.  Love or hate it, my friend Asha Curran (CEO …

Y'all: the time has come to consider a crypto strategy for fundraising.  Join me and co-founder of the Giving Block, Pat Duffy, to discuss some of the misconceptions and benefits of accepting crypto for your nonprofit. …

It's  Q4, y'all!  How many times can I say it?  You gotta get in the game!   Today's interview is with Suhailah Waheed who walks us through the top …

Join me and communications expert Adora Drake as we talk about some of the do's and don'ts of nurturing your email list.  We talk about content strategies, how to move your audience from social media to your newsletter …

Join me and Jess Campbell to talk about how to end your Q4 with a "W".  I always say that Q4 is the Superbowl of Fundraising and Jess walks us through how to make the most of it.  Jess talks about how to avoid the most …

Join me and my dear friend Shanthi to talk about social media.  Shanthi is a social media strategist and communications expert who walks us through …

Join me and filmmakers Tosca Davis and Cedric Smith to talk about their award-winning documentary film, TO BE US: To Work.  In this interview, they share their experiences of interviewing the experience of Black people …

I bemoan the fact that there is so little understanding between nonprofit people and corporate people.  Join me and my friend Lee Crockett as we …

Have you ever considered developing a product to support your revenue goals?  Listen in to this conversation with Brenna Vaughn, founder of Mercantile for Good as we talk about the considerations for productizing.  She …

The nexus of generosity is where mission and donor purpose meet.  Listen in to my conversation with nXu founder Yutaka Tamura as we talk about his work in unlocking and connecting humans with their purpose.  Why does …

Listen in on my conversation with Karene Richards as she talks about her experience as a philanthropist and board member.  We directly confront myths about the lack of Black wealth and Black philanthropists and she …

This interview was a total delight.  Join me and my friend Adili as he walks us through how he doubled his budget in one year via strategic partnerships and Facebook fundraising.  He shares how analysis of his …

If organizational change is hard, try doing it with a 100+ year old institution.  Join me and my friend Carole Wacey as we talk about how she bravely …

If you are like me, the world of online marketing and paid ads is just head-spinning.  Join me and my pal Rishi to talk about how to get started with a paid ad strategy, how to use your (FREE) Google ads grant and what …

Ever get the sense that your fundraising efforts are not driving forward your results?  Ever feel like you're experiencing paralysis by analysis? …

This episode will save you organizational change agents a lot of time and grief.  Have you ever been charged with leading change?  Ever wondered why the path was never as smooth as the plan?  Short answer: humans. …

Have you felt your fundraising mojo drain a little?  Do you dread fundraising?  If so, this interview is FOR YOU.  Join me and my new friend Mark as we discuss all the ways in a little change of perspective can make you …

Join me and my two friends, Evin and Jessica of America on Tech, to discuss their success as start-up founders.  Evin and Jessica are best friends and co-founders of a fast-growing organization that scaled from idea to …

This is a super-fun and nerdy conversation about how to systemize your fundraising systems as a small shop.  We also chat about specifics in major gift fundraising, Duane's favorite hacks and how to manage your time …

Are you overwhelmed with all of the different social media platforms?  Do you feel like social media is just one of those things you "have to do," but don't really know how to monetize?  Join me and my friend Steve …

Daniel is speaking some truth!  Join me and my friend Daniel Horgan to learn more about how you effectively develop corporate partnerships for your organization.  Spoiler alert: it's all about relationships.  Daniel …

So often, when grant-seekers apply for funding, it can be a black box.  Who makes the decisions, how and why?  The process can be particularly opaque …

This was seriously a masterclass on rebuilding a board.  Lucretia headed up fundraising for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and helped to revamp the board to reach their $100M fundraising goal.  Whether you're …

Join me and my friend Mino Lora as she talks about what it means to truly lead with a community.  Mino is the dynamic co-founder of People's Theater …

Ok, ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts because we're taking a ride on the #realtalk train.  Join me and master communicator and coach, Marti Fischer, as we tackle the #1 problem most Executive Directors face. …

I'm the first to admit it--I HATE seeing my face on video.  As the face of an organization or company, our jobs might include being the public face, but many of us don't like it.  Join me and Jeany Park, actress turned …

For a career 501c3 ED such as myself, I thought of 501c4s as a mystifying entity.  I thought, they're like us...but different.  In this conversation …

Join me and the iconic Rich Buery to talk about all the lessons he's learned so far.  Rich has founded organizations, headed up some of the most influential in New York and been the deputy mayor of New York City.  He …

Join me and my pals, Shruti Sehra and Hassan Brown, to learn about how venture philanthropy firm, New Profit, has re-designed giving for equity.  We talk about how community proximity IS expertise, how they redesigned …

My friend and colleague April Walker has worn many hats: funder, consultant and development director.  In this honest and engaging interview, we …

Join me and my new pal Ramon to talk about similar best practices in sales and fundraising.  Ramon and I explore how bad salespeople and bad fundraisers give us all a bad name, the power of relationship and the need to …

With the pandemic lockdown, are you dreaming about open roads and exotic vacations?  Join the club.  

Listen in to today's interview with Maryann Remsburg, a certified coach, mom of four, author and co-founder of …

This episode is not for the faint of heart.  Join me and my friend Stephen Lasser to talk about how to generate leads and income with zero BS.  Stephen's clear-eyed, plain-spoken approach to fundraising is refreshing. …

"We can't afford that."  "There's not enough money."  "There's not enough time."  "Must be nice to have enough staff."

Any of that sound familiar?  As a sector, we live under constant pressure for resources, …

"What about fee-for-service?"  

If you've ever heard this in a board or staff meeting, then this episode is for you.  We talk with Brian Joseph, Co-Founder and CEO and Lizzie Honan, Regional Director NYC of RevJen …

How is fundraising like dating?  From first meeting to courtship to finally "sealing the deal" Jonah and I take a humorous perspective on major gift fundraising.  Learn how to avoid the most common pitfalls (i.e. …

It's a whole new gala world where fundraisers are online, formal wear means your house slippers and hosts are the size of your screen.  The pandemic …

This one is for all of you aspiring nonprofit founders.  In this episode, we serve up a hefty dose of reality about what it takes to found and run a …

True story: on top of my nonprofit work, I'm an aspiring stand-up comedian.  And, lemme tell ya, it's rough out there for a comic.  Join me and fellow stand-up comedian and Chief Story Smith Carlos Maestas to talk about …

Join me and George "In the Mix" Suttles to talk about a very important topic.  We discuss the myths of the lack of BIPOC talent, how to set BIPOC leaders up for success and how to celebrate leadership reclamation.  This …

This summer, after George Floyd's murder, everyone started looking for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) consultants for their teams and …

Ah, founders...they are the stuff of legend.  The ones who birth a nonprofit, nurture it through its infancy and watch it grow.  But, what happens when founders move on?  Today, we're talking with Anne Eidelman, CEO and …

If a picture is worth a thousand words, what's a beautiful video worth?  We're visual animals and there's nothing more inspiring than beautiful …

Summer 2020: everyone is putting out anti-racist statements on their websites and blacking out their IG feeds.  Fine, but what does it ACTUALLY mean to start the journey of being an anti-racist organization?  What does …

Hi folks,

Today's episode is a brief solo show about time and money.  I've gotten a real bug up my butt about the scarcity mindset that we see in …

Join me and my buddy Heather Malin as we talk about her transition from a dog-enthusiast to a major gift fundraiser.  We talk about some of the common mistakes of fundraisers, how to turn your board into your biggest …

Join me and my friend Benny Vasquez, long-time educator and current Chief Equity Officer at the KIPP Foundation, as we discuss what it means to be anti-racist on a personal and organizational level.  Benny offers his …

Join me and my friend David Hoffman as he shares five ways that your nonprofit can up your media game.  He walks us through his engagement funnel and gives us the keys to creating media (video, photos) that grab your …

Note: This episode contains some *adult* content so listener discretion is advised unless you want to have some very interesting conversations with …

Organizing and documenting my business processes was about as high up on my list as scheduling a root canal.  Or writing the Great American Novel. …

What does the future of NYC look like if we re-imagined it through the lens of equity and diversity?  Who's at the table and, more importantly, who isn't and why?  Join me and Dr. Rahsaan Harris, CEO of Citizens …

It's not often that my socks get knocked off, but believe me when I tell you Mike Kim knocked. My. Socks. Off.  In fact, I haven't even WORN socks since I recorded this episode.

Realtalk: Mike drops value bombs aplenty …

What a week it's been.  For those of you looking to take a break and find a moment of calm, I invite you to listen to this interview with Phil Weinberg.  Phil, a lifelong teacher, principal and, most recently, the …

Join me and the Charity CFO, Tosha Anderson, to talk about all of the finances.  Though this may not be the most thrilling topic, being responsible for fiscal oversight is one of the most important jobs for a board …

Ah, strategic planning...a generative process an exercise in frustration or a little bit of both?  Join me on today's pod as we talk with expert …

Full confession: my personal pet peeve = clunky, TMI nonprofit websites.  Everyone trying to tell their whole life story complete with annoying …

This episode comes with a warning label: Could trigger flashbacks of bad funder memories!  Join me and Kris Putnam-Walkerly, philanthropy advisor, to …

Founder's syndrome is a thing, y'all.  As many of us have seen, founders can struggle once their organizations grow and scale because the skills set and mindset of starting an organization is different than managing it. …

I've been a long-time fan of Guadalupe Nickell since Day One.  Lupe is a master fundraiser, fellow Californian and high school classmate (Go Toads!) …

You know you want to...it's whispering to you...start your own business...be your own boss...On this week's pod, I'm talking with Nakeia Drummond, founder of NLD Strategic and the WELL, a group of Black womxn …

The best part about having a podcast is all the learning I get to do with new friends and colleagues.  Join me and my new friend Khafre Jay, ED of …

I loved, loved, loved this conversation with Marvin who is an Annual Giving Officer at MIT Sloan School of Management.  We talk about the mental …

Holy moly!  It's my 100th episode!  Thank you so much to everyone who has listened.  When I started this, I never thought we would be at 100 episodes …

Join me and Northstar Fund's Executive Director Jennifer Ching to discuss decolonizing philanthropy.  In this hugely important conversation, Jen …

It's the first solo show in a while.  In this show, I walk through my 5 M framework to building an effective fundraising program.  The five elements …

Erica Hamilton: mother, wife, social justice warrior, leader.  For those of you who missed Erica's previous podcast episode, I'm thrilled to interview her again as she kicks off her newest adventures.  Erica is …

Hey.  So, my pal, Emily wrote a book called Obsessed.  She also happens to be the branding genius behind household brands like Casper, Boxed, and …

What a treat this interview with my dear friend and soul sister Maureen Yusuf-Morales is!  Mo and I worked together at Breakthrough New York and she …

Join me and my long-time pal Jenn David-Lang to discuss how to start and run a mastermind group.  In this podcast, you'll learn:

1) What is a mastermind and how can I use it to up my game?

2) Tactical tips on how to run …

Join me and CPA Chyla Graham to talk about how to deal with your nonprofit budgeting and money management during this crazy time.  Chyla drops a ton …

Oh, our boards.  In this time of BLM and the broader conversations around racial equity, it can be hard to know where to begin with your board.  Boards are often more conservative, wealthier and less diverse than our …

Today my guest Vanessa Wakeman, founder of the Wakeman Agency, discusses PR in the nonprofit sector.  Why do we need it and how do we demonstrate an …

In this tumultuous time, we are all asking ourselves what we can do to support racial justice and equity (and if you're not, why are you even …

Hot off the press!  Join me and today's guest Assemblymember Yuh-Line Niou, New York State's ONLY Asian-American female Assemblymember representing Lower Manhattan (Lower East Side, Chinatown, Financial District, …

In the midst of a pandemic, there has never been a better time to think about starting that side-hustle or that full-hustle.  Join me, Kishshana and …

My friend Dianne Morales is running for Mayor of New York.  She is the first Latina to ever do so and the very first woman in this mayoral race.  Listen in as she shares her platform positions on racial equity and …

The documented rise of racist attacks against Asian-Americans is real and hits particularly close to home for me.  Join me, Dr. Peter Keo of UCLA and …

Join me and my friend and mentor Cynthia Rivera Weissblum for some sound advice and comfort on leading your nonprofit during these tumultuous times. …

In this interview from our webinar series, we're talking with Minna Taylor, Founder of Energize Your Voice, about how to effectively communicate with your team via Zoom, how your content is the LEAST important thing …

We are all going through a challenging time right now, but it won't be forever.  Dr. Lisette Nieves is one of the kindest, wisest and most effective leaders I've had the pleasure of knowing.  Listen into a recent …

Today's guest is none other than the phenomenal Kaya Henderson.  Among many accomplishments, she was the former Chancellor of DC Public Schools, …

As fundraisers, this COVID-19 has presented more than a few challenges.  Join me and master fundraiser Kara Logan Berlin to talk about what savvy development directors are doing now, what to communicate to your funders …

“Leadership is accepting responsibility for enabling others to achieve shared purpose in the face of uncertainty” -Marshall Ganz

Now more than ever, we are facing uncertainty.  We all have a choice to make: will we grow …

I know you're stressed out, worried about what's happening now and uncertain about the future.  In the midst of all this COVID-19 madness, don't forget that you need to take care of yourself.  Join me and my …

I invited my pal Heather Malin to talk about the state of fundraising in these challenging times.  Heather is an expert fundraiser and we talk about strategies that fundraisers can implement right now, how to survive …

Join me and my friend (and first boss!) Sam Marks to understand the financial side of nonprofits.  As the new CEO of FJC: A Foundation of Philanthropic Funds, we talk about what exactly a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is, …

Fakequity= Fake equity.  Like when you're in a meeting and someone repeats something a person of color said and takes credit for it.  Or when "These …

If I had a nickel for every time an ED complained that their board was not raising money, not engaged or not working, I'd never have to fundraise.  Join me for this chat with Cindi Phallen to learn about how to …

Ever wonder why mergers and acquisitions are not so common in the nonprofit world?  Ever wondered about the nuts and bolts of leading a merger?  Join …

Join me for this incredibly candid and vulnerable interview with Iris Chen.  Iris was one of the founding members of Teach for America and has built …

For folks of color who are trying to do big things in the world, fundraising can feel like pushing an endless rock up a hill.  Join me and Liza …

Join me and my new friend Karla Monterroso to talk about her important work as CEO of Code2040.  In today's high-flying tech economy, Code 2040 is committed to dismantling racial barriers that keep Latinx and Black tech …

Instagram--it's a lifestyle choice.  Join me and my new bud Brandy Henry to talk about how and why nonprofits should be all over Instagram like white …

Founders: they are among the most amazing and maddening people.  Many founders struggle as sustaining Executive Directors because the skills that helped you to start a nonprofit are different than the skills needed to …

You guys--this convo BLEW MY MIND.  I usually try not to fangirl, but Susan Scott is so unbelievably amazing.  She shares insights from her top-selling book Fierce Conversations and Fierce Leadership to help you have …

Happy 2020, friends!  Today's podcast is my hope for your 2020.  I hope and wish you good health.  How many of us sacrifice our health and well-being for the cause?  Join me and my friend Liza Baker, recovering …

How many of us would love to be funded by Robin Hood?  Ever wondered if you've hit a ceiling with your fundraising efforts?  Today my guest is Suzi …

This episode is coming in HOT!  As we head into end-of-year fundraising, Kara breaks down how we need to flip the switch in our own minds about …

For the busy nonprofit executive, it just feels like social media falls to the bottom of your very long to-do list, amirite?  It's all so …

Happy Thanksgiving y'all!  It's particularly fitting that today's post is with my friend Kishshana: truth-teller, inspo and fundraiser …

Today I'm chilling with the Big Poppa of the New York nonprofit world, Rich Berlin.  Rich walks us through the quick history of Harlem RBI that has …

As we careen towards year-end, we know all you fundraisers are out burning the midnight oil.  Annual appeal, Giving Tuesday, making budget, oh my!  My guest Patrick Kirby FEELS YOU.  Take a quick 30 minutes to take a …

This month, as we head into the holiday giving season, we're featuring podcasts about fundraising!  This week, I'm chatting with Crystal Leochko …

Any ED will tell you that it feels like stress and pressure are part of the job.  Constant worry and panic got you down?  Join me and my buddy Shalini as we talk about strategies and tactics to make the time for …

This week, I'm interviewing CEO and Co-founder of New Classrooms Joel Rose.  Joel started his career as a math teacher and created an organization …

Daniel Oscar: educator, nonprofit exec, marathoner.  Listen in to Daniel's gems of wisdom for staying the course in the nonprofit world.  Daniel …

Have you ever walked away from a hard conversation feeling like a bomb went off and you didn't take cover?  Join me and my friend and mentor Jen Mayer, Founder of Becoming Better Together to talk about how to have hard …

Join me for a chat with master coach and my former Board Chair Ted Federici to discuss the common pitfalls of leaders and the mistakes they make.  The job that we have as leaders is daunting and we sometimes do …

Happy Birthday to Nonprofit Lowdown!  Thanks, listeners, for hanging with me for a year.  It's been a blast and a JOURNEY!

For today's pod, I'm reviewing three books that have really taken my game to the next level. …

We're back with our resident Technologista Emily Hicks-Rotella!  In today's pod, we talking about our favorite tech tools, tips and books for how to …

People: your biggest asset and perhaps your biggest pain point.  Join me on today's pod with organizational strategist, human capital and DEI expert Sydney Henriques-Payne to explore some of the obstacles and …

Humans.  So complicated, amirite?

Today I'm talking with Laura Wolff at Ideas42 about the work they do with nonprofits to boost positive behavioral …

This one is for all you Founders out there.  Join me as I chat with my friend and professional coach Paul Thallner as we talk about the pitfalls of …

I don't think you're ready for this jelly.  

Two of the fiercest Asian-American women I know are with me on today's pod and we're ready to torch the patriarchy.

Join me and my buds Seisei and Cosmo as we discuss what …

What's harder than raising $5M for operating?  How about $34M for a new building?  Join me and my dear friend Amanda Kraus, Founder and CEO of Row NY, to talk about what she's learned about launching a capital campaign …

You're not bossy if you are the boss.

Today I'm talking with my friend Tammy Dowley-Blackman about her journey as a leader, the challenges faced by …

In today's pod, I'm talking with Judy Levine, Executive Director of Cause Effective.  Judy and her team just released an important white paper about …

This is the original bosslady.  On today's pod, I'm talking with former CEO of iMentor and Executive Coach Caroline Kim Oh.  We're spilling the tea …

Happy July 4th!  Free yourself from the tyranny of white supremacist hiring practices!  Join me for a great conversation with consultant Judy …

So, fun fact: I've always secretly wanted to be a Navy SEAL.  Or a Marine.  Join me on today's pod with my friend retired Marine Corps Lieutenant …

How much of a pain point is hiring for you?  Are you looking to diversify your pool, make your process more equitable and inclusive and retain a …

Today we're chatting with my buddy, Morty Ballen, who lived through the go-go days of charter school expansion.  As the CEO and Founder of Explore …

Join me on today's pod as I talk with veteran nonprofit leader, Jane Martinez Dowling.  In today's chat, Jane discusses how her experience as a …

Today, we're speaking with our resident Tech Goddess, Emily Hicks-Rotella about how technology and spirituality are connected.  This conversation is …

So. Many. Truth. Bombs. 

This interview with The Ready's Sam Spurlin.  I reached out to Sam because I'm OBSESSED with the book Brave New Work by Aaron Dignan.  So often in organizations when things aren't working, when …

Usually, we feature episodes that help nonprofit executives to run their nonprofits better.  Today, we're talking with Clara Chow about her work in creating pathways to financial sustainability and a product that can …

Today I'm chatting with Dr. Kerry Ann who was Founder of the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity.  As a young African-American …

I'm so pleased to welcome back my friend Emily.  Today, we're talking about how small nonprofits that don't have a big IT budget or IT department can take steps to become more data-driven and tech-forward.  Emily will …

"I'm not a businessman, I'm a business, man."

Get ready to jump because we're setting this house ON FIRE.  Ify Walker is the founder and CEO of Offor, which is one of the nation's top talent broker agencies in the …

Joyful.  Thought-provoking.  Truth-telling.  Join me for this wide-ranging conversation with Erica Hamilton.  Erica shares her wisdom and perspective …

Hold onto your hats because Dianne is about the blow the roof off.  #Realtalk: we're addressing some of the elephants in the room about why it can be …

I LOVED this interview with Columbia University doctoral candidate Micah McElroy.  Micah is pursuing his PhD in the history of philanthropy in the US …

We all talk about it, but how do you achieve it?  Join me in my conversation with Emily Hicks-Rotella of Make Tech Work For You.  Get control of your …

What to expect when you're conducting your first audit?  If you're like most EDs, dealing with the financial side is just a wee bit mysterious.  Join me as I chat with Howard Cohen CPA, Partner of Mazars to learn about …

Did you know that 93% of all communication is non-verbal?  How do you incorporate feedback about your communication and still stay true to yourself?  Join me as we talk with Leah Bonvissuto, founder of Present Voices to …

Join me and my dear pal Brooke Richie-Babbage for this super-intimate and #realdeal convo about what we wish we had known before becoming Executive Directors.  Brooke was the Founder and Executive Director of the …

Today I'm chatting with David King, President of Alexander Haas, a fundraising consulting firm.  We discuss how to build and manage a giving board, …

This is a wide-ranging conversation with Jovian Zayne, leader, activist, coach and DEI expert.  Diversity, equity and inclusion are top of mind for so many leaders, but how do even get started?  Don't miss this episode!

DO NOT MISS THIS ONE!  I'm sitting down with my pal Emily Heyward, co-founder of Red Antler to talk about launching iconic brands.  Emily is the genius behind Casper, Birchbox, Allbirds, to name a few.  What can this …

Join me in today's conversation with Carol Argento, VP of the Charles Hayden Foundation.  What are program officers really looking for?  How …

For my peeps who have to negotiate new office space in NYC, I've got two words for you: loss factor.  It will make you crazy.  

Join me and Andrew Chase, commercial real estate broker at Cushman and Wakefield, to …

For all of my ED peeps out there.  My guest is Kelley Perkins, former ED of the Read Alliance.  We share some of our lessons learned about leaving the big job.

If you're thinking about transitioning out, check out this …

Join me in today's conversation with Thomas Rush, Head of Platform of Consensys.  What is blockchain?  How can it be used in nonprofit/social enterprise use cases.

For more information, check out Litepaper.

My oh my!  Don't miss this episode that is loaded--I mean SUPER-MEGA-LOADED--with amazing tips about marketing, digital story-telling and engaging your online audiences.  I'm sitting with Deroy, co-founder of Hyperakt …

Happy 2019, friends!  

In order to start the year off right, I'm chatting with Sarah Olivieri, founder of PivotGround about how to optimize, maximize …

Whether we like it or not, dealing with sticky HR situations is part of the job.  Join me as we chat with HR law expert Chip Fournier about best practices in HR and how keep an employee termination from terminating your …

Join me as I talk with Jennifer McCrea: writer, speaker, teacher and master fundraiser. What are the blocks that you're putting in the way of your fundraising? How do we help ourselves and others access a mindset of …

Salesforce--it's not just a database, it's a lifestyle choice. Join me as we chat with Staci Rice of Idlewild Consulting to discuss how to implement …

Do budgets, spreadsheets and projections have you running for the hills? Don't be scared! Freda is here to help, especially for those of us who aren't accountants!

Listen to nonprofit finance pro Freda Gimpel about how …

Happy Thanksgiving to all! In this week's episode, I review Radical Candor which gives you a framework to be both caring and candid with your people. Enjoy your turkey!

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Just in time for Thanksgiving and #givingtuesday! Join me and this master class with Jane Geever, President of JC Geever. She's been fundraising in New York City for over 40 years and wrote the book on grantwriting …

Ok, kids, hold onto your hats because master fundraiser Cleo Cavolo is coming in hot!

She shares with us all of her wisdom that helped her achieve …

I'm joined once again by John Rinaldi to talk about our shared obsession with Marie Kondo. Listen in to how applying The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up can be applied to your nonprofit.

https://amzn.to/2JonR8X

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Today's podcast features my guest, John Rinaldi.

As busy executives, have you ever wondered how to find a good admin to turbocharge your impact? What makes for a good relationship with your admin? Tune in with my …

Hey folks! In this week's episode, I review The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier. Ever get into the mode of trying to "fix" people by piling …

Podcast friends, join me for this tasty snack with the wise and wonderful Lara Galinsky. Have you ever wondered what your unique contribution to this …

On this episode, we talk to Jeff Simmons of Anat Gerstein, the go-to PR and communications agency for nonprofits in New York.
Listen in for
-Free or low-cost ways to drive awareness
-Avoid basic mistakes
-Tips to pitch …

"Culture eats strategy for breakfast." -Peter Drucker

Ever wonder how to create positive organizational culture and how to root out negative culture? …

In this podcast, I share interviews with top social entrepreneurs, books, tips, tools and concepts that will help you to excel in the business of …