Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

Jaksot

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  Are You Dreaming Big Enough for Your Organization? 13.09.2026 42min

  This is repost of a previously published episode. In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Dan Pallotta—renowned author, TED Talk speaker, and social impact provocateur—to discuss what it really takes to solve the world’s biggest problems. Known for challenging the status quo in the nonprofit sector, Dan pushes listeners to think beyond conventional limitations, urging nonprofit leaders and donors alike to reimagine what’s possible when we truly embrace bold, audacious goals. Dan unpacks his groundbreaking fundraising innovations, including the AIDS Rides and Breast Cancer 3-Day Walks, and dives into key themes from his recent documentary Uncharitable. He emphasizes that nonprofits need to stop playing it safe and start empowering people to explore their own heroism—whether it’s through higher-risk initiatives or rethinking how we define overhead and impact. This episode will inspire you to challenge outdated assumptions and push your organization to dream—and do—bigger. Key Topics Include: The origin and impact of Dan’s fundraising innovations, including the AIDS Rides and Breast Cancer 3-Day events Why nonprofits must reframe how they view overhead, salaries, and investments The danger of playing it safe: how fear of failure stifles nonprofit innovation Exploring the concept of fundraising as a path to individual heroism Why bold, time-bound goals are essential for real social impact The importance of capital investment and risk-taking in the nonprofit sector Insights from the Uncharitable documentary and how it’s shifting donor mindsets Mentioned in This Episode: Dan Pallotta’s Website: DanPallotta.com Watch Uncharitable: UncharitableMovie.com The Audacious Project: audaciousproject.org No Kid Hungry: nokidhungry.org Social Current: social-current.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the N
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  How to create a healthy culture that leads to greater impact 06.09.2026 28min

  A healthy nonprofit culture is not a “soft” issue—it directly affects employee retention, trust, innovation, performance, and ultimately an organization’s ability to create lasting impact. In this episode, Rob Harter sits down with Marcia Beckner, founder and CEO of Culture CARES Global, to discuss how nonprofit leaders can intentionally build workplace cultures where employees feel valued, respected, engaged, and psychologically safe. Marcia shares her CARES framework—Commitment, Appreciation, Respect, Engagement, and Safety—and explains why psychological safety serves as the foundation for a thriving nonprofit team. Rob and Marcia also explore nonprofit leadership burnout, employee retention, trust and accountability, transparent communication during times of change, and the importance of narrowing strategic priorities so leaders and teams can pursue excellence without spreading themselves too thin. Key Topics Include: The five elements of the CARES framework: Commitment, Appreciation, Respect, Engagement, and Safety Why psychological safety is foundational to nonprofit culture, innovation, inclusion, and high performance How nonprofit leaders can improve employee retention by helping staff feel valued, respected, and appreciated Leading authentically and confidently without pretending to have all the answers How transparent communication helps organizations maintain trust during uncertainty and organizational change Preventing nonprofit leadership burnout through energy management, healthy boundaries, delegation, and sustainable pacing Why nonprofit leaders must strategically say “no,” prune unnecessary priorities, and focus resources on the few initiatives that can create the greatest mission impact Mentioned in This Episode: Culture CARES Global Connect with Marcia Beckner on LinkedIn Nonprofit CEO SPARK Podcast You Are Meant for Great Things by Marcia Beckner This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  What would you do with not just one but two multi-million-dollar gifts? 30.08.2026 41min

  What happens when a nonprofit receives not one, but two transformational, unrestricted gifts worth millions of dollars? In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Dr. Xanthe Scharff, President and CEO of the Women’s Refugee Commission (WRC), and Havovi Waddia, Managing Director of Programs for The Freedom Fund. Both organizations have received two major gifts from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott—WRC receiving a total of $24 million and The Freedom Fund receiving a total of $95 million. Xanthe and Havovi discuss how these unexpected gifts have transformed their organizations’ ability to think strategically, invest in frontline organizations, strengthen internal systems, and make long-term commitments to the communities they serve. They also explore the power of trust-based philanthropy, why unrestricted funding can create significantly more impact than traditional restricted grants, and what MacKenzie Scott’s approach to giving could mean for the future of nonprofit fundraising and philanthropy. Dr. Xanthe Scharff Key Topics Include: How the Women’s Refugee Commission and The Freedom Fund received transformational gifts from MacKenzie Scott without applying or making a traditional funding request Why receiving a second major gift represents an extraordinary vote of confidence in an organization’s leadership, mission, transparency, and impact How unrestricted funding gives nonprofit leaders the flexibility and “head space” to make strategic, long-term decisions instead of simply reacting to immediate funding pressures How The Freedom Fund is using its funding to make long-term investments in frontline and survivor-led organizations working to end modern slavery How the Women’s Refugee Commission is adapting its funding model amid major cuts to government and international humanitarian aid Why trust-based philanthropy can strengthen nonprofit organizations, frontline partners, civil society, and ultimately democracy and human rights What MacKenzie Scott’s giving philosophy may signal about the future of philanthropy—and why private philanthropy cannot replace the responsibility of governments Mentioned in This Episode: Women’s Refugee Commission The Freedom Fund Yield Giving This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  What values-driven leadership looks like 23.08.2026 36min

  What does values-driven leadership look like when a nonprofit is growing rapidly, facing increasing demand, and making difficult decisions about where to focus? In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter sits down with Angelique Albert, CEO of Native Forward Scholars Fund, the largest direct provider of scholarships to Native students in the United States. Angelique shares how her upbringing on the Flathead Indian Reservation and her connection to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes have shaped her approach to leadership, service, and community impact. Angelique also offers an inside look at how Native Forward has scaled its impact, growing from roughly $4 million in annual revenue to an annual budget of approximately $26 million while significantly expanding its net assets and student support. She explains why strong nonprofit leadership requires knowing what to say no to, building the infrastructure needed for sustainable growth, bringing in outside expertise, and balancing long-term organizational strength with immediate mission impact. The conversation also explores Native Forward’s transformational unrestricted gifts from MacKenzie Scott and how those investments strengthened the organization’s capacity to serve more Native scholars. Key Topics Include: How Angelique Albert’s Native heritage and connection to community shape her values-driven leadership approach Why nonprofit leaders need to identify what their organizations can do exceptionally well—and be willing to stop doing the rest How Native Forward narrowed its focus to college access and college success while partnering with others for complementary services The importance of strategic planning, organizational infrastructure, documented systems, and strong internal processes when scaling a nonprofit Why outside consultants and third-party perspectives can help nonprofit leaders identify blind spots and build stronger strategies How unrestricted funding from MacKenzie Scott helped Native Forward invest in infrastructure, scholarships, wraparound services, marketing, and long-term sustainability How nonprofit leaders can balance immediate mission impact with investments in capacity, fundraising, technology, and future generations Mentioned in This Episode: Native Forward Scholars Fund: https://nativeforward.org/ The Bridgespan Group: https://www.bridgespan.org/ MacKenzie Scott’s Yield Giving: https://yieldgiving.com/ Hispanic Scholarship Fund: https://www.hsf.net/ UNCF: https://uncf.org/ This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How to Lead When Life Is Unraveling Around You 16.08.2026 24min

  What happens when you’re responsible for holding a nonprofit organization together while your personal life is falling apart? In this episode, Rob Harter sits down with Ashley Stallings to have an honest conversation about nonprofit leadership, burnout, vulnerability, and what it takes to lead sustainably through seasons of personal crisis. Ashley shares her own experience of navigating the end of a 19-year marriage, becoming a single mom, and leading an organization that was barely hanging on—all at the same time. She explains the warning signs she missed, why asking for help can be so difficult for leaders, and how a strong support system ultimately helped her recover. Rob and Ashley also explore practical ways nonprofit leaders and boards can build healthier organizational structures, create psychological safety, establish boundaries, and prepare for difficult seasons before a crisis occurs. Key Topics Include: Recognizing the early warning signs that a nonprofit leader may be approaching burnout or a breaking point How tying your identity and self-worth too closely to your organization’s mission can push you beyond healthy limits Why nonprofit leaders often struggle to ask for help and the importance of building a support network before you need it Finding the right balance between healthy vulnerability and oversharing with staff and board members How boards, second-in-command leaders, and succession plans can reduce the pressure placed on executive directors Establishing healthy boundaries and learning why saying “no” can protect both the leader and the organization’s mission Creating sustainable leadership practices that allow nonprofit leaders and their teams to stay healthy for the long haul Mentioned in This Episode: Learn more about Ashley Stallings, her speaking, and nonprofit consulting: AudiblyAshley.com This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  Noah’s brief life led to lasting legacy 09.08.2026 34min

  Matthew Efird How can profound grief be transformed into purpose, empathy, and a legacy that serves others? In this powerful episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter speaks with Matthew Efird about the loss of his son, Noah, who was diagnosed with Trisomy 13 before birth and lived for 57 and a half hours. Matthew shares how he and his wife, Hannah, navigated the months between Noah’s diagnosis and birth, the intentional choices they made to protect their marriage and family, and the role faith and community played in helping them endure an unimaginable season. Matthew also discusses how journaling became a critical tool for processing grief and eventually led to his book, Even Though We Will. He explains how Noah’s legacy now fuels his work through the Even Though We Will Foundation, where his family helps connect others facing child loss and terminal diagnoses with resources and support. Their story offers nonprofit leaders meaningful lessons on empathetic leadership, sustainable leadership, protecting what matters most, learning to say no, and turning personal pain into service for others. Key Topics Include: Matthew and Hannah Efird’s experience receiving their son Noah’s Trisomy 13 diagnosis and preparing for the loss of their child The 57 and a half hours Matthew and Hannah were able to spend with Noah and how his life continues to shape their family How intentional communication helped Matthew and Hannah protect their marriage while navigating grief Why journaling, counseling, community, and openly processing difficult emotions became essential parts of Matthew’s grief journey How Matthew’s personal journals eventually became his book, Even Though We Will, written in part to provide a father’s perspective on child loss How the Even Though We Will Foundation helps families connect with resources and support while navigating child loss and terminal diagnoses Leadership lessons around empathy, burnout, delegation, protecting your time, setting 90-day priorities, and understanding that every “yes” is also a “no” to something else Mentioned in This Episode: Matthew Efird: https://matthewefird.com Even Though We Will Foundation: https://eventhoughwewill.com Even Though We Will by Matthew Efird: https://eventhoughwewill.com This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  The Missing Middle: How Ivory Innovations Is Seeking to Address the Housing Crisis 02.08.2026 36min

  Amy Tomasso America’s housing crisis is not only about affordability—it is also about a lack of diverse housing options for people at different income levels and stages of life. In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Amy Tomasso, Director of Policy Innovation at Ivory Innovations, about the “missing middle” between detached single-family homes and large apartment buildings. Amy explains how duplexes, triplexes, cottage courts, accessory dwelling units, and other smaller housing types could create more attainable options for first-time homebuyers, growing families, and older adults hoping to downsize. Amy also shares how Ivory Innovations combines research, education, entrepreneurship, public policy, and hands-on affordable housing development to move promising ideas into practice. The conversation explores zoning reform, construction technology, innovative financing, cross-sector partnerships, and the important role nonprofit leaders and community foundations can play in developing local housing strategies. Key Topics Include: Why the housing crisis affects community wellbeing, economic development, food security, and financial stability What “missing middle” housing is and why many communities stopped building it How zoning reform, smaller lots, streamlined approvals, and developer support can expand housing options How Ivory Innovations tests new construction technologies and housing solutions through its Fieldworks program Why successful housing policy reforms need committed champions from government, business, nonprofits, or the community What nonprofit organizations can learn from the public and private sectors—and what those sectors can learn from nonprofits How students and emerging leaders can enter the housing field through Hack-A-House and other educational opportunities Mentioned in This Episode: Ivory Innovations The Little Book of Low-Cost, High-Impact Housing Solutions The Ivory Prize for Housing Affordability Ivory Innovations Fieldworks Hack-A-House Missing Middle Housing UCLA Housing Voice Podcast Fixer-Upper: How to Repair America’s Broken Housing Systems by Jenny Schuetz Escaping the Housing Trap by Charles Marohn Jr. and Daniel Herriges Missing Middle Housing: Thinking Big and Building Small to Respond to Today’s Housing Crisis by Daniel Parolek This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  A Nonprofit Driving Meaningful Change for the Unhoused 27.07.2026 38min

  Preston Cochrane Housing is essential, but is it enough to create lasting change for people experiencing chronic homelessness? In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Preston Cochrane, CEO of The Other Side Village in Salt Lake City, Utah, about the nonprofit’s human-centered approach to homelessness. Rather than treating residents as clients or case numbers, the organization creates a supportive community where people can rebuild relationships, rediscover purpose, develop practical skills, and take responsibility for their futures. Preston explains how The Other Side Village combines permanent housing with peer mentorship, meaningful work, recovery support, social enterprise, and a democratic therapeutic community. He also discusses the need to balance compassion with accountability, why lived experience is central to the organization’s coaching model, and how the village measures long-term success through housing stability, self-reliance, sobriety, and crime-free living. Key Topics Include: Why housing alone may not address the isolation, trauma, addiction, mental health challenges, and broken relationships connected to chronic homelessness How a human-centered model helps residents move beyond short-term stabilization toward lasting transformation The importance of balancing compassion and accountability when serving people experiencing homelessness How coaches with lived experience provide credible peer support, mentorship, and encouragement Why residents are called neighbors and participate in a democratic therapeutic community How social enterprises provide employment, workforce training, purpose, and sustainable revenue The four outcomes The Other Side Village uses to measure success: permanent housing, employment or self-reliance, drug-free living, and crime-free living Mentioned in This Episode: Learn more about The Other Side Village Connect with Preston Cochrane on LinkedIn Learn more about The Other Side Academy Visit The Other Side Donuts Learn more about the National League of Cities This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How Transparency Can Improve Donor Retention 20.07.2026 30min

  Donors want to know that their generosity is making a real difference. Yet many gifts can feel like they disappear into a “black box,” leaving supporters unsure where their donations went or whom they helped. In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Antonis Politis, CEO and co-founder of Givelink, and Panos Kokmotos, COO and co-founder of Givelink, about how greater transparency can strengthen donor trust, improve the giving experience, and increase donor retention. Givelink enables donors to purchase products that nonprofits currently need, track those items through delivery, and receive photos, videos, and personalized stories showing their impact. Antonis and Panos explain why nonprofits should make giving more tangible and human, how AI can personalize donor communications without replacing authentic connection, and why Givelink’s transparency model has led donors to give approximately 60% more annually. Key Topics Include: Why uncertainty about where donations go can weaken donor trust and retention How Givelink connects donors with the specific products nonprofits currently need Why nonprofits should be able to track charitable impact as easily as consumers track a package How photos, videos, and personalized impact stories make giving more tangible Why Givelink reports that donors give approximately 60% more annually through its platform How nonprofits can use AI to personalize donor communications while preserving authentic human connection How Givelink provides its in-kind donation platform to nonprofits at no cost Mentioned in This Episode: Learn more about Givelink and its free in-kind donation platform for nonprofits: Givelink Explore Givelink’s resources for nonprofit organizations: Givelink for Nonprofits Research nonprofit accountability and transparency: Charity Navigator This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How Our Brains Are Wired for Generosity and Why It Matters 12.07.2026 35min

  Why do people give—and what happens in the brain when they decide to support a cause? Rob Harter sits down with fundraising strategist, behavioral science expert, and Neurogiving author Cherian Koshy to explore the neuroscience behind generosity. Cherian explains why charitable giving is closely connected to emotion, identity, belonging, and the brain’s reward systems—and why facts alone rarely inspire someone to donate. Cherian also shares practical ways nonprofit leaders can create more meaningful donor experiences, reduce unnecessary friction, and build lasting relationships rooted in trust. The conversation examines the ethical use of neuroscience and artificial intelligence in fundraising, emphasizing that these tools should deepen human connection rather than manipulate donors or reduce them to data points. Key Topics Include: Why generosity and charitable giving are wired into the human brain How giving expresses a donor’s identity, values, passions, and sense of belonging Why nonprofit communications should connect emotionally before presenting facts and data How confusion, excessive choices, insider language, and complicated donation forms create friction The difference between harmful friction and intentional questions that reinforce donor identity Ethical considerations for using neuroscience and artificial intelligence in fundraising How consistency, curiosity, transparency, and patience build donor trust and lifelong loyalty Mentioned in This Episode: Cherian Koshy’s Website Connect with Cherian Koshy on LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How to Not Just Survive but Thrive in Leadership 05.07.2026 31min

  Dr. Doris Macharia In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter speaks with Dr. Doris Macharia, President of the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, about what it takes to lead with clarity, courage, and resilience during times of crisis. Dr. Macharia shares her journey from practicing medicine in Kenya to leading global HIV and public health initiatives, and how her background prepared her to step into executive leadership during a season of major international funding cuts. Dr. Macharia offers practical insight for nonprofit leaders navigating uncertainty, staffing challenges, donor shifts, and organizational change. She emphasizes the importance of staying anchored to mission, communicating consistently, making decisive choices, caring for yourself as a leader, and building trust through presence, empathy, and action. Key Topics Include: How nonprofit leaders can build trust when stepping into leadership during a crisis Why mission clarity gives organizations authority and direction during uncertain times Leading global health and nonprofit work through funding cuts and resource scarcity The importance of communication, listening, and visible leadership with staff and stakeholders How collaboration with governments, communities, donors, and partners strengthens impact Why leaders must make decisions quickly, even with limited information The role of self-care, family support, preparation, and personal values in sustainable leadership Mentioned in This Episode: Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation: https://pedaids.org EGPAF on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egpaf EGPAF on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elizabeth-glaser-pediatric-aids-foundation This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How Building Trust Can Accelerate Impact 28.06.2026 33min

  In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Clare Durrett and Dr. Terri Thompson of Answer ALS about how trust, collaboration, and shared data can accelerate meaningful impact. Answer ALS began after a powerful summit led by Steve Gleason and Team Gleason, where patients, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and advocates came together to rethink how ALS research could move forward with fewer barriers and greater urgency. Clare and Terri share how Answer ALS developed Neuromine, a globally accessible research platform designed to help researchers explore clinical, genomic, biological, and multi-omic data in one place. Their conversation offers valuable lessons for nonprofit leaders on building trust with stakeholders, protecting community-centered values, scaling ambitious work, and creating systems that make collaboration easier than working in isolation. Key Topics Include: How Steve Gleason and the ALS community helped spark the creation of Answer ALS Why traditional disease research often gets slowed down by data silos and limited access How Neuromine helps researchers access, compare, and use complex ALS data more efficiently The importance of patient partnership, dignity, and agency in nonprofit and medical research models How Answer ALS balances global accessibility with privacy, security, and scientific rigor Why trust with donors, researchers, and the community is essential for long-term impact Lessons for nonprofit leaders on collaboration, transparency, data stewardship, and scaling a mission Mentioned in This Episode: Answer ALS: https://www.answerals.org Neuromine: https://www.answerals.org/neuromine Answer ALS on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/answer-als This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  Investing in the Next Generation: Why the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation Is All In 22.06.2026 32min

  Jay Williams In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Jay Williams, President and CEO of the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation. Jay shares his leadership journey from banking and public service to becoming the first African American and youngest mayor of Youngstown, Ohio, serving in the Obama administration, and now leading one of Connecticut’s major community foundations. Rob and Jay discuss how philanthropy, nonprofit partnerships, workforce development, and education can come together to create lasting community impact. Jay explains why the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation is investing deeply in the next generation through its Greater Futures Scholarship partnership with Hartford Promise, helping students access college, wraparound support, and the opportunity to graduate with little to no student loan debt. Key Topics Include: Jay Williams’ journey from banking and public service to nonprofit and philanthropic leadership Why community foundations must use data, partnerships, and local insight to address inequity The Greater Hartford Gives Foundation’s five strategic priorities: basic human needs, employment, thriving neighborhoods, civic resident engagement, and arts and culture How student loan debt impacts local economies, workforce development, homeownership, and long-term community growth The Greater Futures Scholarship partnership with Hartford Promise and its potential to provide up to $100,000 over four years Why wraparound services are essential for helping first-generation college students succeed Leadership lessons on building strong teams, creating a collaborative culture, and taking responsibility when challenges arise Mentioned in This Episode: Greater Hartford Gives Foundation Greater Futures Scholarship Fund Hartford Promise Hartford Promise Scholarship This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  From Heartbreak to Impact: Channeling Loss Into a Movement for Positive Change 14.06.2026 40min

  In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Michelle Dubiski, mother of Madison Dubiski, who tragically lost her life during the 2021 Astroworld Festival tragedy in Houston. Michelle shares Madison’s servant-hearted spirit, her deep love for others, and how an organic movement called #PinkBowsForMadison became a symbol of love, remembrance, and hope. Rob is also joined by Steve Allen, an event management and crowd safety expert who has partnered with the Pink Bows Foundation to help create global standards for show-stop procedures and live event safety. Together, Michelle and Steve share how grief has been transformed into advocacy, education, safe spaces, and a growing movement to prevent future tragedies at concerts, festivals, sporting events, and other large gatherings. Key Topics Include: The story of Madison Dubiski and the tragedy that inspired the Pink Bows Foundation How the #PinkBowsForMadison movement spread from Houston across the world Why nonprofits can grow powerful movements through community support, clarity of mission, and collaboration The foundation’s three pillars: philanthropic giving, safe spaces at events, and show-stop safety training How Steve Allen and Dr. Mark Hamilton helped develop an internationally accredited show-stop procedure course Why live event safety protocols matter at concerts, festivals, stadiums, and large public gatherings How the Pink Bows Foundation is partnering with global experts, venues, promoters, and public safety leaders to create lasting change Mentioned in This Episode: Pink Bows Foundation About the Pink Bows Foundation Pink Bows Foundation: Madison Dubiski’s family turns tragedy into advocacy (Pink Bows Foundation) Email the Pink Bows Foundation: [email protected] Follow the Pink Bows Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  What is the essence of effective leadership? 07.06.2026 36min

  Hanna Bauer In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Hanna Bauer, founder of HEARTnomics®, about what it really means to lead with clarity, courage, and service. Hanna shares how her childhood battle with heart disease, including a groundbreaking heart ablation surgery, shaped the way she thinks about uncertainty, resilience, and servant leadership. Drawing from her work as a leadership strategist, consultant, coach, and speaker, Hanna explains how nonprofit leaders can move beyond reactive decision-making and build sustainable organizations rooted in vision, values, accountability, and trust. She also introduces her HEART leadership framework and BEAT method as practical tools for helping leaders align people, purpose, performance, and long-term impact. Key Topics Include: How Hanna’s childhood experience with heart disease shaped her leadership philosophy Why effective leadership begins with service and a clear vision The importance of values-based leadership for nonprofit culture and trust How the HEART framework helps leaders build alignment, sustainability, and impact Why founder-led nonprofits often struggle with sustainability and succession How nonprofit leaders can recognize burnout and create healthier rhythms of leadership Moving from reactive leadership to proactive, values-driven decision-making Mentioned in This Episode: Hanna Bauer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bauerhanna HEARTnomics: https://heartnomics.com HEARTnomics Leadership Profile: https://heartnomics.com/heartnomics-leadership-profile/ Ser Familia: https://serfamilia.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  Why you need to know what motivates the “Mission Generation” 31.05.2026 37min

  Arun Gupta In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter speaks with Arun Gupta, CEO of NobleReach Foundation, venture capitalist, Stanford lecturer, Georgetown entrepreneurship professor, and bestselling author of The Mission Generation. Arun shares how his work across entrepreneurship, technology, public policy, venture finance, and social impact has shaped his belief that today’s workforce is increasingly seeking purpose, mission, and public impact in their careers. Rob and Arun discuss how the pandemic, geopolitical instability, artificial intelligence, and rapid social change have caused many people across generations to rethink what they want from work. Arun explains why “stability is the new risk,” why mission-driven careers are no longer limited to one generation or one sector, and how nonprofit leaders can foster innovation, experimentation, and cross-sector collaboration without losing sight of their mission. Key Topics Include: Why emerging and established leaders are increasingly seeking purpose, impact, and mission in their work What Arun means by the “Mission Generation” and why it is a posture, not simply an age group The four major barriers to mission-driven careers: internal, relational, societal, and institutional How nonprofit leaders can help staff connect personal ambition with civic responsibility Why social impact organizations need to embrace experimentation, risk-taking, and innovation The importance of cross-sector careers that move between nonprofit, business, government, and technology Why trust, talent, and interdependence will be critical for the future of mission-driven leadership Mentioned in This Episode: The Mission Generation: NobleReach Foundation: This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How Bank of America Is Helping People Give More To More Organizations 25.05.2026 45min

  Dianne Bailey In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter talks with Dianne Bailey, Managing Director and National Philanthropic Strategy Executive at Bank of America Private Bank, about the changing landscape of nonprofit fundraising, affluent donors, and the future of charitable giving. Dianne brings decades of experience in philanthropy, nonprofit law, donor strategy, and foundation work, offering a unique view from the intersection of donors and nonprofit leaders. Rob and Dianne discuss key findings from the Bank of America Study of Philanthropy, including why total giving is increasing while fewer households are giving, how nonprofits can build deeper donor relationships, and why volunteer engagement often leads to greater generosity. They also explore donor advised funds, planned giving, women in philanthropy, rising-generation donors, and the massive intergenerational wealth transfer that could reshape nonprofit fundraising for decades to come. Key Topics Include: Why fewer affluent households are giving, even as total charitable giving continues to rise How nonprofits can move from transactional fundraising to relational donor engagement The importance of listening to donors and aligning giving opportunities with their values, interests, and experiences Why volunteers often become stronger, more generous long-term donors How nonprofits can prepare for the great intergenerational wealth transfer through planned giving Why women and rising-generation donors should be key priorities for nonprofit fundraising strategies How donor advised funds can help nonprofits receive larger and more strategic gifts Mentioned in This Episode: Bank of America Study of Philanthropy Connect with Dianne Bailey on LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  What is the “Good Neighbor Day” movement all about? 17.05.2026 33min

  Walter Kim In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Walter Kim, president of the NAE, about the urgent need to rebuild trust, strengthen local communities, and rediscover what it means to be a good neighbor. Walter shares how declining trust, loneliness, polarization, and compassion fatigue are affecting generosity, volunteerism, and civic life across the country. Walter also introduces the Good Neighbor Day America movement, a nationwide call to service designed to help churches, nonprofits, and community groups take simple, practical steps toward neighborliness. From cleaning up parks to supporting local schools, feeding people, and partnering across differences, Walter explains how small acts of kindness can grow into meaningful community transformation. Key Topics Include: Why trust is declining in communities, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations How polarization and ideological conflict affect generosity and volunteer engagement The importance of relational proximity in rebuilding trust at the local level How compassion fatigue, loss of agency, and lack of access can prevent people from serving Why small, visible acts of kindness can create lasting cultural change The vision behind Good Neighbor Day America and how organizations can participate How nonprofit leaders can model service, humility, empathy, and neighborliness Mentioned in This Episode: National Association of Evangelicals This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How to Move From Providing Job Security to Career Security 11.05.2026 48min

  Steve Cadigan In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Steve Cadigan, talent strategist, author of Workquake, and LinkedIn’s first Chief HR Officer. Steve shares how the employer-employee relationship has changed dramatically in recent years, especially as AI, remote work, frequent career changes, and shifting expectations around purpose and flexibility continue to reshape the workplace. Steve explains why nonprofit leaders can no longer rely on traditional ideas of long-term retention or job security. Instead, he encourages leaders to offer “career security” by helping employees grow, learn, and become better prepared for an uncertain future. For nonprofits, this shift creates a powerful opportunity to attract mission-driven talent, build stronger alumni relationships, redesign roles for shorter talent cycles, and create cultures where people want to contribute deeply—even if they do not stay forever. Key Topics Include: Why the “workquake” is changing how leaders recruit, retain, and develop talent The difference between job security and career security How nonprofit leaders can build stronger talent strategies in a short-tenure workplace Why employees are increasingly loyal to learning, growth, and purpose How nonprofits can attract people in career transition through “tour of duty” roles The value of alumni communities and maintaining relationships with former employees Why reverse mentoring can help younger employees contribute, grow, and stay engaged Mentioned in This Episode: Steve Cadigan’s website: https://stevecadigan.com Steve Cadigan’s book, Workquake: https://stevecadigan.com/workquake/ Steve Cardigan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cadigan/ This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
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  How Leaders Sustain Long-Term Impact in Mission-Driven Work 04.05.2026 30min

  Caitlin Baron In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter welcomes Caitlin Baron, CEO of the Luminos Fund, to discuss how nonprofit leaders can sustain long-term impact while scaling mission-driven work. Caitlin shares her personal journey from growing up in Brooklyn, where she saw firsthand how education changes opportunity, to leading international education initiatives that help children who have been denied access to school. Caitlin explains how the Luminos Fund creates second-chance education programs for out-of-school children across Africa, helping students cover three years of learning in just one year. She also shares practical leadership insights on scaling impact, building strong partnerships, staying focused on mission, cultivating joyful learning environments, and growing as a leader while an organization expands. Key Topics Include: How the Luminos Fund helps out-of-school children catch up and reenter school with peers their own age Why nonprofit leaders should focus on community assets instead of only looking at needs or deficits How Luminos scales impact through African-led community-based organizations and government partnerships The importance of open-source tools, teacher guides, and the Luminos Method for expanding education access Why joyful learning, play-based instruction, and safe classroom environments accelerate academic outcomes How Caitlin’s leadership evolved from hands-on program builder to steward of strategy, culture, hiring, and risk management Why nonprofit CEOs must stay in dialogue with the external environment while keeping internal teams aligned Mentioned in This Episode: Luminos Fund: https://luminosfund.org The Luminos Method: https://luminosfund.org/luminos-method Luminos Method on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at [email protected] Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at [email protected] Subscribe and ShareListen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!