Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

It can be difficult to see actual change to today’s big problems, especially when starting at the federal level. Change usually occurs due to the efforts of dedicated individuals at the local level. Rob’s guest shares how a program at Harvard Business School is dedicated to solving big issues by bringing together local leaders from all over the United States. Rob’s guest today is Dr. Jan Rivkin who is the Senior Associate Dean and Chair of the MBA program at Harvard. He is also a professor in the Strategy Unit at Harvard Business School. Dr. Rivkin is also credited with starting YALP, the Young American Leaders Program. Dr. Jan Rivkin, Senior Associate Dean and Chair of the MBA program at Harvard Jan explains his role at Harvard Business School and why he was led into academia. Jan shares that while involved in the US Competitiveness Project which started in 2011, he and his colleagues at Harvard realized the US economy was lacking shared prosperity. Jan explains that they realized sustainable change would not come from the federal level alone because of the gridlock that often occurred at this level. This prompted the Harvard Business School to create a program that would aim to solve these issues. Jan describes how the Young American Leaders Program chooses the participants each year and what the program provides to these leaders from across the United States. Jan shares some examples of the positive influence the program has made in US cities and the benefits of addressing issues at the local level. Rob gets the opportunity to share about his experience of participating in the program and adds what he found most impactful when he was a part of YALP. Links to Resources: If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com To be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/If you have any suggestions for the show, email nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com

Cryptocurrency is all the rage in many ways right now, but there still remains a lot of skepticism about the long term sustainability of cryptocurrency and just the uncertainty around it. There’s a lot of misunderstanding when it comes to cryptocurrency’s use for nonprofits and philanthropy. This is part two of our series on cryptocurrency and part one featured Robbie Heeger from Endaoment.  Rob’s guest today is another expert in cryptocurrency, Pat Duffy. He’s the co-founder of The Giving Block, a for-profit company that seeks to help provide all a nonprofit needs to fundraise Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in order to support their missions.  Pat Duffy. Co-founder of The Giving Block Pat gives a quick overview of cryptocurrency and why nonprofits should be more engaged and educated about it, and how blockchain technology has solved many financial issues since its inception in 2009. He breaks down crypto’s three versions of safety and why cryptocurrency is becoming a safer investment strategy. He discusses Giving Block’s mission and the many benefits they provide to nonprofit organizations, along with their secret sauce of never-ending energy to establish themselves in the crypto sector. He shares what it takes for nonprofits to begin accepting crypto from donors and scale up to crypto fundraising programs. He addresses skepticism nonprofit leaders may have around cryptocurrency and how Giving Block can save organizations not just money, but time and energy spent on trying to create something from scratch. Finally, Pat explains how his previous experience at a nonprofit inspired him to offer innovative solutions to nonprofits, why crypto is a great way to boost engagement and fundraise effectively for organizations, and his predictions for what role cryptocurrency will play for philanthropy.   Links to Resources: Twitter – https://twitter.com/TheGivingBlock/ The Giving Block –https://thegivingblock.com/ If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at rob@robharter.com To be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Cryptocurrency is here to stay and it’s coming to a nonprofit near you. Understandably, many of you might be very skeptical when it comes to cryptocurrency, in general, and certainly when it comes to how it might impact your nonprofit fundraising efforts.  Rob’s guest today is Robbie Heeger, the CEO of Endaoment, a new public charity that offers donor-advised funds (DAFs) built atop the Ethereum blockchain. Their mission is to manage and encourage the charitable giving of cryptocurrencies.  Robbie Heeger, the CEO of Endaoment Robbie demystifies cryptocurrency and explains how Endaoment uses donor-advised funds to convert cryptocurrency donations into US dollar grants for charities and philanthropic causes. He also discusses DeFi, or decentralized financing, and Endaoment’s use of blockchain networks to recreate behaviors of established financial institutions with more transparency, interoperability and emphasis on community foundation. He addresses how they try to mitigate skepticism by using the world’s most trusted stable coin. He goes on to explain the difference between Bitcoin, NFTs (non-fungible tokens) and various forms of cryptocurrency. Robbie shares tips for organizations to participate in the crypto ecosystem and sheds light on how nonprofits have the opportunity to shift into a decentralized autonomous organization (DAO). He also explains how nonprofits can take advantage of Endaoment’s “end to end” donor-advised fund experience to begin receiving cryptocurrency gifts and donations. Finally, Robbie predicts what nonprofits can expect over the next few years as the cryptocurrency industry blooms.       This episode previously aired. #ICYMI #FromTheArchives     Links to Resources: Endaoment on Twitter – https://twitter.com/endaomentdotorg Endaoment – https://endaoment.org/ How to Get Started – https://docs.endaoment.org/ Robbie Heeger on Twitter – https://twitter.com/robbieheeger If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at rob@ccofpc.org To be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Ever wondered how philanthropy and charity first began? The answer may surprise you! The Greek roots for the word “philanthropy” refer to the “love of humankind”. Rob’s guest today is author Paul Vallely who has written a new book that serves as an encyclopedic review of the origins and history of philanthropy and charity over the centuries. Paul argues that today, too many people and organizations have lost the true purpose of charity and he offers a way back to the roots of good philanthropy.    Paul Vallely, author of “Philanthropy: from Aristotle to Zuckerberg” Paul shares what led him to research the history of philanthropy, what surprised him most about how money moves through philanthropic organizations and who really benefits from donations. He also talks about how organizations can help recapture the missing element in philanthropy, particularly as it relates to the relationship between the rich and the poor. In short, Paul argues for having a more human and holistic vision of philanthropy that marries the head and the heart. Finally, Paul digs into why more nonprofit leaders need to focus on building partnerships by listening to and respecting the people they are trying to help and how the pandemic has actually strengthened philanthropy as a third pillar in society alongside government and the market.  *This episode previously aired. #FromTheArchives #ICYMI Learn more about Paul’s book here: Paul Vallely: Website | Twitter |   If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com To be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Almost everyone is familiar with the YMCA, especially because of the Village People’s infamous song. What many may not know is that the Y, with all of its nationwide affiliates, is actually one of the largest nonprofits, not only in the US, but in the world.  Rob’s guest today is the retiring President and CEO of the YMCA of the USA, Kevin Washington. After 43 years of service, Kevin will be handing off the baton to Suzanne McCormick, who will be taking the YMCA to the next chapter in their storied history. YMCA of the USA is a federated organization that manages 800 federate associates as part of their national network. There are 2,700 physical YMCA branch locations across all 50 states, with programs in over 10,000 communities serving 22 million members and counting.  Kevin Washington, past President and CEO of the YMCA of the USA Kevin recalls his own experience of how the Y found him and his journey from being a member to becoming the organization’s President. He explains how COVID forced the YMCA to quickly pivot and why collaboration with the newly formed federal coalition to support nonprofits was vital to continue providing services for communities. Kevin describes the barriers they’ve had to overcome during the pandemic and why working together is always key, regardless of political beliefs. He also highlights the importance of trust and transparency, and how long term relationships with donors helped secure unrestricted funds when it mattered most. On the same note, Kevin discusses why he believes nonprofit leadership requires significant levels of humbleness, empathy, innovation and boldness and the willingness to risk going against the status quo if it means moving your organization forward. Finally, Kevin shares the greatest opportunities and challenges the next CEO of the YMCA will face, and how the “Summer of George Floyd” and believing in our youth has bolstered his hope for the future.  *This episode previously aired. #FromTheArchives #ICYMI Links to Resources: Kevin Washington Kwashington@ymca.net Meet the new CEO through this link.YMCA Website  If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com To be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Rob has had several guests on the show to talk about the work they are doing with diversity, equity and inclusion. Today’s guest is dedicated to this same important work. The work is particularly relevant this month, because August is Black Philanthropy Month. Rob’s guest today is Dr. Chera Reid, the Co-Executive Director of the Center for Evaluation Innovation or CEI and she will share how we can help transform philanthropy into a force that actually advances racial equity and justice. CEI is a women-led nonprofit organization that partners with philanthropy on strategy, learning and evaluation efforts that are intended to advance racial equity and justice. Dr. Chera Reid, Co-Executive Director of the Center for Evaluation Innovation Chera shares that she was led into this work 20 years ago and was inspired by the work of Dr. Lydia English, who she later worked with at a nonprofit in Massachusetts. She explains that racial justice is a strategy that needs to be the priority for all foundations, acknowledging uncomfortable truths in order to progress. She believes the nonprofit sector is a reflection of the challenges and opportunities in our society and shares about how two Supreme Court cases have been great milestones for the diversity movement. She also discusses a recent successful live event that CEI co-hosted with Trust-Based Philanthropy, a peer-to-peer funder initiative to address the inherent power imbalances between foundations and nonprofits. Chera explains how partnerships like these can really make a difference in closing the gap between ideas and taking action. She concludes by offering two great pieces of advice to other nonprofit leaders. First, she encourages leaders to be themselves by owning one’s experiences. Second, she talks about the importance of leaders taking some things off of their calendar. Finally, Chera shares her belief that this critical work is essentially “remaking the world”. Links to Resources: Center for Evaluation Innovation (CEI)CEI LinkedIn CEI Twitter If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.comTo be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Ian Morgan Cron, speaker, author, and pioneer in the contemporary Enneagram movement Personality tests have existed for centuries, yet many leaders are still surprised by how insightful and beneficial understanding your personality type can be to the work you want to accomplish.  Rob’s guest today is Ian Morgan Cron, speaker, author, and pioneer in the contemporary Enneagram movement. His book “The Road Back to You” is perfect for those interested in learning more about the typology of the nine interconnected, personality types of the Enneagram tool.  Ian has worked with a variety of companies and leaders both in and out of the nonprofit space, and consistently sees the need for building soft skills like empathy and compassion. He explains why meaningful work matters and how a strong leader understands not only their own strengths, but also where they require support and balance. Most importantly, Ian shares why self-awareness is the ultimate key to successful leadership, no matter your personality type!  *This episode previously aired. #FromTheArchives #ICYMI Links to Resources: The Road Back to You iEQ9 Online Test Ian Morgan Cron: Website | Typology Podcast | True You Course   If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at rob@robharter.com To be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Shelley Hoss, President & CEO of OCCF Rob’s guests today are Shelley Hoss, president and CEO of OCCF for nearly 22 years, and Tammy Tumbling, the first-ever Executive Vice President and COO at OCCF. Based in Newport, California, OCCF is in the top 2% in grant-making among U.S. community foundations. The DNA of their service model is a double helix, with one strand being service to donors and their own philanthropic goals and the other strand being service to the needs of their local community.  Fundraising is the most important aspect of growing your nonprofit, yet it can also be the most challenging. Throw in a pandemic, new technology that seems to always be changing, plus a new currency in the form of cryptocurrency, and fundraising for nonprofits in your organization may feel like an overwhelming obstacle right now. Rob’s guests will both shed some light on the current status of fundraising as well as share some of the key things they’re seeing and experiencing at one of the largest Community Foundations in the country, which is the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF).   Tammy Tumbling, Executive Vice President & COO of OCCF Shelley and Tammy explain what kinds of organizations they fund, which grants rise to the top, and why clarity, alignment, and organizational strength are key to selecting who receives funding. They discuss the fluid process of how they help donors decide which organizations to support, insight about their Legacy Program, and how they decide where to use their own resources based on where they can meet the most needs. They address COVID’s impact on philanthropy, the new tools of engagement that have emerged for nonprofits since the pandemic, and why they try to never make assumptions about what needs people face in their community. They also suggest ways organizations can future-proof their fundraising by providing the right technology, information and access. They explain common pitfalls to avoid when using technology and the two ways OCCF is leveraging technology to reach their internal and external stakeholders. Further, Tammy shares her experience of launching the African American Alliance Fund and how it’s focused on supporting education, health, human services, economic business development, and civic engagement. Finally, Shelley addresses the current fundraising landscape, how nonprofits can reframe challenges as opportunities, and why organizations should consider looking outside the nonprofit world for their next fundraiser. Links to Resources: Orange County Community Foundation – https://www.oc-cf.org/ OCCF Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/OCCommunityFdn OCCF LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/orange-county-community-foundation/ If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com To be added to our nonprofit leadership community, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Racial equality and social justice are nothing new however they have become one of the most prominent conversations we are having now when it comes to nonprofit leadership and growth. *Note: This episode is from the archives* #ICYMI Rob’s guest today is Kishshana Palmer, CEO of Kishshana + Co., and founder of The Rooted Collaborative. She is a national speaker, trainer, and coach with a 17 year background in fundraising, marketing, and talent management. Kishshana’s first management experience was at 22 years old, right after grad school, when she was challenged to lead a team of 12 and had a million dollar budget.  Kishshana Palmer, CEO of Kishshana + Co., and founder of The Rooted Collaborative Kishshana explains why all nonprofits are avenues for social justice, and why more groups must dig deeper into their diversity and inclusion practices if they really want change and growth to occur. She believes organizations should focus on investing in the talent, time, and treasure of its team members, and details how employee satisfaction surveys can really paint a picture of where work is needed within an organization in order to continue fostering a healthy culture. Kishshana wants more leaders to recognize it’s time to change the way things are done because times are indeed changing, and our young people are living proof this movement for change. Links to Resources: Kishshana + Co: Website | Facebook | Instagram |  Kish Camp for Managers *Note: This episode previously aired. Enjoy this re-posting in case you missed it. #FromTheArchives If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at rob@ccofpc.org To be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/

Recruiters across the country have been feeling the pressure of the “great reshuffle” since COVID. They are relying on their existing networks to find talent quickly. Unfortunately, many recent college graduates have been left behind in this process without a recruiter or the right network, which too often means those from underrepresented communities, especially as Generation Z enters the workforce as the most diverse population in American history. That is why it is even more critical that they receive the appropriate assistance and mentoring opportunities in order to find their next job. Kalani Leifer — Founder & CEO of COOP Careers Rob’s guest today is Kalani Leifer — Founder & CEO of COOP Careers. COOP Careers is a nonprofit organization that offers a program focused on digital skills and peer connections to help low-income and first-generation college graduates overcome the barriers they face while finding gainful employment. Kalani assesses the current job market, focusing on Gen Z, and sheds light on nepotism in hiring and the phenomenon of young employees recommending their friends, neighbors, and schoolmates. He examines the barriers and challenges that Gen Z graduates, particularly those from underrepresented communities, experience when seeking employment. He discusses the changes students are experiencing in college, how that will affect them when they graduate and enter the job market, and the role Gen Z will play in the current job market and unemployment issues. Furthermore, he also shares the journey of COOP Careers, including why and how it began, the organization’s core objective, his plans for the organization, as well as the fundraising model of the organization. Finally, he discusses the differences in working styles that he has experienced between Millenials and Gen Z, what Gen Z looks for in an organization before joining, as well as some ideas for establishing a strong culture that attracts new talent. Links to Resources: COOP Careers – https://coopcareers.org/  If you have questions or want to come on the show, email Rob at rob@ccofpc.orgTo be added to the monthly email update, go to http://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/ This podcast is sponsored by Arts Midwest