Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Dr. Michael Horowitz, Chancellor of The Community Solution Education System, about the crucial role of culture in nonprofit success. Dr. Horowitz emphasizes that culture isn’t just an abstract concept—it directly impacts leadership, fundraising, collaboration, and long-term impact. Topics include: – Why Peter Drucker’s famous quote, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast,” is still relevant today – How to intentionally foster a culture of collaboration within an organization and across the nonprofit sector – Avoiding mission drift while navigating economic challenges and fundraising pressures – Strategies for operationalizing a nonprofit’s values to ensure alignment with its mission Dr. Horowitz also shares his approach to building a culture of radical cooperation and how nonprofit leaders can use this mindset to drive innovation, efficiency, and long-term success. Mentioned: The Community Solution Education System– A nonprofit integrated system of six colleges and universities Dr. Michael Horowitz on LinkedIn – Follow here This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders! Thank you for tuning in to another inspiring episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast!

Javier Lezcano In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Javier Lezcano, Executive Director of Xcalibur Foundation, a nonprofit based in Spain that is making a significant impact across multiple countries. As the first Spanish nonprofit featured on the podcast, Javier shares how Xcalibur Foundation is working to support vulnerable communities through education, sports, and community engagement. Topics include: *The foundation’s unique approach to social impact in Spain, Uganda, Colombia, and beyond *How they use sports as a tool to keep children in school and create long-term opportunities *Addressing challenges like menstrual hygiene barriers to keep girls in education *Strategies for nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and creating sustainable partnerships Javier also shares inspiring success stories, including a young athlete who earned an international scholarship, demonstrating the power of nonprofit initiatives in transforming lives. Mentioned: Xcalibur Foundation – Supporting education and community development globally Naguru Social Sport Academy – After-school sports program in Uganda promoting education Xcalibur Foundation on Social Media – Follow here This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders! Thank you for tuning in to another inspiring episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast!

In this episode, Rob speaks with Doug Paul, founder of Catapult, about the importance of personal growth for nonprofit leaders. Doug emphasizes the role of intentionality in leadership development and shares actionable insights on how leaders can design a personal growth plan that aligns with their unique wiring, calling, and story. Topics include: -Why leaders need a personal growth plan to navigate the fast-paced nonprofit landscape -The role of innovation and adaptability in leadership development -How nonprofits can foster a culture of continuous improvement -Practical steps to create a leadership plan based on personal strengths and goals Doug also shares stories of leaders who have successfully navigated pivotal moments in their careers by focusing on personal growth and strategic planning. Mentioned: Catapult – Helping leaders and organizations scale and thrive Good Strategy, Bad Strategy by Richard Rumelt – Recommended book for understanding strategy Doug Paul on LinkedIn – Connect here This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Mohamed Osman In this episode, Rob is joined by Mohamed Osman and Ali Metcalf from Spring Impact, a nonprofit focused on helping organizations tackle global challenges at scale. Together, they discuss the findings from their new report, which explores how nonprofits can overcome the biggest obstacle to scaling their impact: accessing funding. Topics include: Why accessing funding for scale remains the number one challenge for nonprofits. Lessons learned from organizations that successfully scaled their operations. The importance of embedding solution delivery costs in government or partner systems. Strategies for diversifying funding sources, including philanthropy, corporate partnerships, and end-user revenue. Practical advice for funders and nonprofits looking to maximize their impact. Mohamed and Ali share inspiring examples of nonprofits that have navigated these challenges to grow their reach and create lasting change in their communities. Mentioned: Spring Impact – Supporting organizations globally to scale their impact Securing Nonprofit Report– Download the report mentioned in this episode. Spring Impact Free Toolkit – Download tools to improve scaling strategies Spring Impact LinkedIn – Follow here This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Stephane Aoki In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Stephane Aoki, founder of Elevate Côte d’Ivoire, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering underprivileged Ivorians by providing job opportunities and fostering self-reliance. Stephane shares his personal journey growing up in the Ivory Coast and how his experiences inspired the mission of Elevate. Topics include: -Why job creation is at the heart of Elevate Côte d’Ivoire’s mission -The ripple effects of stable income on healthcare, education, and family well-being -Balancing financial assistance with the goal of self-reliance -The importance of understanding community needs and tackling the root causes of poverty Stephane also highlights inspiring success stories of individuals who have transformed their lives through Elevate’s programs, and he discusses how collaboration and partnership play a critical role in their work. Mentioned: Elevate Côte d’Ivoire – Empowering Ivorians through jobs and opportunities MIT OpenCourseWare – Development Economics – Recommended resource for understanding poverty solutions Stephane Aoki on LinkedIn – Connect here This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com –Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

George Tsiatis In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with George Tsiatis, CEO and co-founder of the Resolution Project, about how to inspire and empower the next generation of changemakers. George shares his experience working with Gen Z leaders and explains why this generation is uniquely positioned to tackle global challenges. Topics include: How to turn youth complacency into solution-driven action Why collaboration between generations leads to better innovation Strategies for nonprofits to recruit and engage Gen Z talent The importance of purpose-driven work and how nonprofits can foster it George also shares inspiring success stories from Resolution Project fellows who are making a significant impact in their communities worldwide. Mentioned: Resolution Project – Empowering young leaders to drive social change Enactus – A global network of student entrepreneurs making a difference George Tsiatis on LinkedIn – Connect here This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Africa Mission Healthcare In this episode, Rob is joined by Scott Marcello, President of African Mission Healthcare, to discuss how nonprofit collaboration can amplify impact and create lasting change. Scott shares insights into the organization’s work addressing healthcare disparities across Africa, emphasizing the importance of partnerships, community engagement, and innovative strategies to improve access to quality care. Topics include: -The power of collaboration and community engagement in solving healthcare challenges -How African Mission Healthcare supports mission hospitals to provide critical care and training -Strategies to balance cost, quality, and access to healthcare -The role of long-term investment and relationship building in creating sustainable change Scott also shares real-world examples of the organization’s work, including its SAFE surgical initiative and programs to strengthen healthcare systems in underserved regions. Mentioned: African Mission Healthcare – Transforming healthcare systems in Africa SAFE Program – Surgical Access for Everyone initiative providing life-changing surgeries This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

John Hewko In this episode, Rob is joined by John Hewko, General Secretary and CEO of Rotary International. John shares an update on Rotary’s global initiatives, including their ongoing efforts to eradicate polio, tackle new challenges, and adapt to the evolving needs of communities worldwide. Topics include: How Rotary is addressing the loneliness epidemic through volunteerism and community involvement. The lessons Rotary has learned from its polio eradication initiative. How the organization is adapting its structure and offerings to engage the next generation of leaders. The importance of being audacious and collaborative to achieve large-scale impact. With over 1.2 million members across 45,000 clubs worldwide, Rotary remains one of the largest and most influential nonprofits, dedicated to creating positive change on both local and global levels. Mentioned: Rotary International – Learn more about Rotary and find a club near you Rotary’s Polio Eradication Initiative – A global effort to end polio Rotary Fellowships – Join global communities around shared interests like tennis, cycling, and more This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Dr. Kristen Brown In this episode, Rob speaks with Dr. Kristen Brown, Senior Research Associate at the Urban Institute, about the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on medical research. Dr. Brown shares insights from her work in maternal health research, highlighting how AI is being used to address critical health disparities and improve healthcare outcomes for mothers and infants in the U.S. The conversation explores: -The role of AI in identifying and managing high-risk pregnancies -Ethical considerations, including equity, data bias, and the responsibility of AI developers -The importance of centering equity in AI development to avoid exacerbating disparities Dr. Brown provides an inside look at her collaboration with the GE Healthcare Foundation and how AI can either bridge or widen the gap in healthcare outcomes, depending on how it is implemented. Mentioned: Urban Institute – Research-driven insights to advance upward mobility and equity GE Healthcare Foundation – Supporting equitable healthcare solutions Kristen Brown, PhD on LinkedIn Follow here This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Ben Miller Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the nonprofit landscape, and the question for nonprofit leaders isn’t whether to use AI, but how to use it effectively. In this episode, Rob Harter sits down with Ben Miller, SVP of Data Science at Bonterra, to explore how nonprofits can leverage AI for good. They discuss practical applications like improving donor engagement, optimizing operations, and overcoming barriers to adopting AI. Ben also addresses critical ethical considerations, including data security and bias, while offering advice for nonprofits of all sizes on how to start small and grow their AI capabilities. Whether you’re an executive director, development officer, or board member, this episode provides valuable insights into how AI can help your nonprofit achieve greater impact. Mentioned: Bonterra – AI-powered tools and resources for nonprofits Fundraising AI – Ethical AI guidelines for the nonprofit sector Fundraising Effectiveness Project – Free resources for improving fundraising outcomes This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – Helping nonprofits maximize their impact with user-friendly donation forms and secure fundraising solutions. 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 nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders! https://donorbox.org/?ref=nmu4ndh