Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

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: https://www.privatebank.bankofamerica.com/articles/bank-of-america-study-of-philanthropy-panel.html Connect with Dianne Bailey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannechippsbailey This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: https://donorbox.org 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!

Walter Kim In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Walter Kim, president of the National Association of Evangelicals, 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: https://www.nae.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: https://donorbox.org 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!

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 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!

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: https://donorbox.org 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!

Pierre Le Manh In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Pierre Le Manh, President and CEO of Project Management Institute (PMI), about how nonprofit leaders can stay grounded in their mission while navigating rapid change, uncertainty, and transformation. Pierre shares why clarity of purpose, adaptive execution, transparency, and values-based leadership are essential for keeping teams aligned and motivated even when conditions are shifting. Rob and Pierre also explore why project management skills are no longer reserved for people with the project manager title. From prioritization and stakeholder alignment to AI adoption, enterprise agility, and long-term thinking, this conversation offers practical leadership insights for nonprofit executives who want to improve execution, avoid mission drift, and lead change with empathy. Pierre also points listeners to PMI’s resources and his LinkedIn profile for continued learning. Key Topics Include: How nonprofit leaders can stay anchored in purpose during seasons of rapid change and uncertainty Why adaptive execution often works better than overplanning and overregulating in mission-driven organizations The growing importance of project management skills for nonprofit leaders, CEOs, and teams leading transformation How prioritization, planning, and stakeholder trust directly improve mission outcomes What it looks like to integrate AI with empathy, experimentation, and people-first leadership How to avoid shiny object syndrome and build practical guardrails around new technology adoption Why resilience, reflective practice, and long-term thinking help leaders sustain impact over time Mentioned in This Episode: Pierre Le Manh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierre-le-manh-3a4158 Project Management Institute (PMI): https://www.pmi.org/ This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox: https://donorbox.org/ 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!

Greg Warner In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Greg Warner, founder of MarketSmart, to explore how nonprofit leaders can use fundraising data more effectively. Greg shares the story behind the Fundraising Report Card, a free tool designed to help organizations better understand donor retention, lapsed donors, giving trends, and overall fundraising performance. The conversation also dives into the future of fundraising, including how AI can create efficiencies, improve donor engagement, and free up development teams to focus more on meaningful relationships. Greg offers a powerful reminder that donors should never be treated like ATMs, but rather as people looking for purpose, trust, and connection through their giving. Key Topics Include: What the Fundraising Report Card is and how it helps nonprofits assess donor trends, retention, and lapsed giving Why lifetime donor value is one of the most important metrics nonprofit leaders should understand Common data challenges organizations face, including poor data hygiene and activity-based measurement How AI can improve fundraising efficiency by handling repetitive tasks and supporting donor cultivation Why donor relationships should be approached relationally rather than transactionally How empathy for the donor experience can lead to more transformational gifts What nonprofit leaders should prepare for as fundraising continues to evolve in the years ahead Mentioned in This Episode: Greg Warner on LinkedIn MarketSmart: iMarketSmart.com Fundraising Report Card: FundraisingReportCard.com This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: DonorBox.org 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!

Christoph Gorder In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter sits down with Christoph Gorder, leader of Airbnb.org, to explore how Airbnb has built a social impact model that looks very different from a traditional corporate foundation. As an independent 501(c)(3), Airbnb.org operates separately from Airbnb while still leveraging the company’s technology, host network, and infrastructure to provide emergency housing for people displaced by disasters and other crises. Christoph shares how Airbnb.org is rethinking disaster response by using millions of available homes around the world to provide fast, flexible, dignified shelter for families in need. He also talks about leadership, scaling nonprofit impact, the role of AI and technology in modern nonprofit operations, and why strategic partnerships are essential for responding effectively in moments of crisis. This conversation is packed with insights for nonprofit leaders who want to innovate, collaborate, and maximize their mission impact. Key Topics Include: How Airbnb.org is structured as an independent 501(c)(3) with its own board and mission Why Airbnb.org’s model is different from a traditional corporate social responsibility or philanthropic arm How the organization scaled from responding to 8 disasters in 2023 to 78 disasters two years later What nonprofit leaders can learn about focus, standardization, and scaling wisely How Airbnb.org used local partnerships like 211LA and Catholic Charities to respond quickly during the Los Angeles wildfires Why giving displaced families choice and control is such an important part of effective disaster housing How AI, technology, and collaboration can help nonprofits become more efficient and responsive Mentioned in This Episode: Airbnb.org: https://www.airbnb.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: https://www.donorbox.org 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!

David Beckmann joins Dr. Rob Harter for a conversation on poverty alleviation, public policy, and the practical steps nonprofit leaders can take to reduce hunger and hardship in the United States and around the world. A pastor, economist, activist, and former president of Bread for the World, David shares insights from decades of advocacy work and discusses the central ideas in his book, Poverty Abolitionists. In this episode, David reflects on the significant progress that has been made in reducing poverty over recent decades, while also warning that recent policy shifts are reversing some of those gains. Rob and David explore the role of nonprofit advocacy, the intersection of faith and public policy, and why leaders in the social impact sector need a vision that extends beyond their own organizations. Key Topics Include: Why David Beckmann believes poverty is a solvable problem in the U.S. and globally What decades of data reveal about the dramatic decline in global and U.S. poverty rates How advocacy can help nonprofit leaders influence policies that affect hunger and poverty The impact of government funding cuts, tariffs, and immigration policies on vulnerable communities Why nonprofit organizations play a unique role in offering both practical support and personal connection How faith, spirituality, and beliefs about justice can shape public support for anti-poverty policies Why nonprofit leaders need a mission bigger than their organization to create lasting change Mentioned in This Episode: David Beckmann’s website: https://www.davidbeckman.net David Beckmann’s book: Poverty Abolitionists Bread for the World: https://www.bread.org Alliance to End Hunger: https://alliancetoendhunger.org Feeding America: https://www.feedingamerica.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: https://www.donorbox.org 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!

Asiaha Butler In this episode Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Asiaha Butler, co-founder and CEO of the Resident Association of Greater Englewood (R.A.G.E.), to explore how one resident’s decision to stay transformed into a powerful, resident-led movement for community healing, ownership, and revitalization. Asiaha shares the defining moment that changed her life: seeing a young girl playing in a vacant lot filled with broken glass and deciding that leaving Englewood was no longer the answer. Through this conversation, Asiaha unpacks how grassroots leadership, deep relationship-building, and a mission bigger than yourself can spark lasting change. From helping residents reclaim vacant lots to promoting homeownership, economic justice, and neighborhood belonging, her story offers nonprofit leaders a compelling model for building trust, preventing mission drift, and leading with both courage and joy. Key Topics Include: How a single moment in a vacant lot inspired Asiaha Butler to stay in Englewood and invest in her community The founding story of R.A.G.E. (Resident Association of Greater Englewood) and its resident-led approach to transformation Why “community development of the mind” is essential before physical redevelopment can succeed How relationship-building, belonging, and “porch life” help restore social fabric in disconnected communities The role of vacant land activation, homeownership, and the Buy the Block Homebuyer Grant in advancing economic justice How nonprofit leaders can document their story, reflect on their journey, and share their mission more effectively Asiaha’s leadership lessons on rest, reflection, joy, and preventing burnout in mission-driven work Mentioned in This Episode: Resident Association of Greater Englewood (R.A.G.E.) Asiaha Butler on Instagram (@mrs_englewood) R.A.G.E. on Instagram (@rage_englewood) This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: https://donorbox.org 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!

Julia Devine In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Julia Devine of Relatable Nonprofit to explore the rapid rise of nonprofit consulting and why more professionals are moving into this space. Drawing from a new industry report based on responses from 381 nonprofit consultants, Julia shares what is fueling this post-COVID shift and why nonprofits are increasingly turning to consultants and fractional experts to solve urgent capacity gaps. Rob and Julia also unpack some of the biggest myths about nonprofit consulting, including the idea that only certain specialties earn more or that consulting is simply an easy career pivot. They discuss what today’s nonprofit consultants actually do, how retainers and project-based work are shaping the field, and what nonprofit leaders should understand about hiring outside expertise in a changing funding environment. Key Topics Include: Why nonprofit consulting has grown significantly over the last five years, especially after COVID How layoffs, federal funding cuts, and reduced grant support are pushing professionals toward consulting Why nonprofits are hiring consultants and fractional workers instead of adding full-time staff What Julia Devine’s report revealed about consultant earnings, hourly rates, and business models The difference between nonprofit consulting and fractional roles such as CFO, COO, or CEO support Why niche positioning and problem-specific marketing matter more than offering general services How retainer agreements and project-based work are helping consultants build sustainable income Mentioned in This Episode: Relatable Nonprofit 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 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!

Stefan Feuerstein In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Stefan Feuerstein to explore why healthy delegation is essential for nonprofit leaders who want to avoid burnout and build sustainable organizations. Drawing on years of leadership experience in the humanitarian sector, Stefan explains that delegation is not about getting work off your plate, but about empowering team members, clarifying responsibility, and helping others grow into greater leadership. Rob and Stefan unpack the fears that often keep mission-driven leaders from delegating well, especially the fear that the mission will suffer if someone else takes on key responsibilities. Stefan shares practical insights from his A-B-C Delegation Framework and explains how leaders can create healthier teams by defining responsibility, building trust, and developing people in ways that strengthen both the organization and its impact. Key Topics Include: Why delegation is a leadership skill every nonprofit leader must develop How poor delegation contributes to burnout, bottlenecks, and micromanagement The fear and control issues that keep leaders from letting go What healthy delegation looks like in a growing organization How Stefan’s A-B-C Delegation Framework creates clarity and trust Why delegation should be used to develop people, not just distribute tasks A practical first step leaders can take this week to reduce overwhelm Mentioned in This Episode: Stefan Feuerstein’s website: https://abcdelegation.com/ Stefan Feuerstein on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-feuerstein-0b35a7117 Stefan’s book, A-B-C Delegation: The Manager’s Guide to Effective Delegation: https://www.amazon.com/B-C-Delegation-Managers-Guide-Effective/dp/B0FDTXZMBD This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox: https://donorbox.org/ 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!

Michael Thatcher In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Michael Thatcher, CEO of Charity Navigator, to explore how the nation’s largest independent charity evaluator is evolving to better serve donors and nonprofits alike. With over a decade at the helm, Michael shares how his background in technology and impact measurement has shaped Charity Navigator’s shift toward a more comprehensive, 360-degree view of nonprofit effectiveness. From financial transparency and governance best practices to measuring real impact and rebuilding trust in the nonprofit sector, this conversation dives deep into how data-informed giving can strengthen both donor confidence and organizational performance. Whether you’re a nonprofit executive striving for a higher rating or a donor seeking to invest in meaningful change, this episode provides practical insights to help you give—and lead—smarter. Key Topics Include: The mission of Charity Navigator and how it has expanded to rate over 250,000 nonprofits Why overhead is not a proxy for impact—and how to think beyond simple financial ratios Best practices for improving your nonprofit’s rating, including governance, transparency, and data submission How Charity Navigator’s new 360-degree rating system evaluates organizational health and impact The importance of transparency, independent boards, and posting your IRS Form 990 Why donors should think of their giving as an investment in impact, not just a charitable transaction Addressing declining trust in the nonprofit sector and the role of third-party evaluators in rebuilding confidence Mentioned in This Episode: Charity Navigator: https://www.charitynavigator.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – https://donorbox.org 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!

Suzanne Ehlers In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Suzanne Ehlers, Executive Director and CEO of USA for UNHCR (the fundraising partner of the UN Refugee Agency), to explore how women are reshaping philanthropy—and how nonprofits can better design giving models that reflect who is actually driving decisions. Suzanne shares why traditional fundraising approaches often haven’t been built with women at the center, even though women influence the vast majority of giving decisions and are poised to inherit a significant portion of global wealth. (UNHCR) Suzanne also unpacks USA for UNHCR’s women-led campaign, Building Better Futures, a $15M initiative that supports refugee women through higher-education scholarships via UNHCR’s DAFI program. Together, Rob and Suzanne discuss how relationship-based philanthropy, authentic storytelling, and flexible program delivery can create deeper donor engagement and more durable impact for refugee women and girls. (UNHCR) Key Topics Include: Why philanthropy models must evolve to match who drives giving decisions—and why women’s leadership in giving matters How Building Better Futures centers women “soup to nuts”: donor voice, decision-making, and impact priorities The power shift from transactional fundraising to relationship-driven philanthropy and shared purpose How USA for UNHCR is helping sustain and expand the DAFI Scholarship Programme for refugee higher education Closing the gender gap in refugee education by intentionally prioritizing women scholars Storytelling that’s “by and for” women—using authentic refugee voices to inspire action Why flexibility (host-country study, support systems, and virtual options) is essential for education programs in refugee contexts Mentioned in This Episode: USA for UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency fundraising partner): https://www.unrefugees.org Building Better Futures campaign: https://www.unrefugees.org/building-better-futures/ UNHCR’s DAFI Tertiary Scholarship Programme: https://www.unhcr.org/us/what-we-do/build-better-futures/education/higher-education-and-skills/dafi-tertiary-scholarship-0 Suzanne Ehlers on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-ehlers Not Really Strangers Podcast https://www.unrefugees.org/not-really-strangers-podcast/ (UNHCR) This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: https://donorbox.org 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!

Mitch Stein In this timely and data-packed episode, Rob Harter sits down with Mitch Stein, Head of Strategy at Chariot, to unpack one of the most important—and fastest-growing—trends in nonprofit fundraising: Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs). With economic uncertainty, shifting donor behavior, and fewer individuals giving overall, nonprofit leaders must understand how to meet donors where they are. And increasingly, that’s through DAFs. Mitch shares eye-opening statistics, including that nearly 20% of all charitable donations now come from DAFs, totaling $65 billion in grants in 2024 alone. He explains how DAFs work, why donors love them, common misconceptions around payout rates, and—most importantly—how nonprofits can create a clear and effective DAF strategy to increase revenue and donor engagement. If you’re looking to future-proof your fundraising efforts, this is a must-listen episode. Key Topics Include: The explosive growth of Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), with $326 billion currently held in DAF accounts Why approximately 1 in 5 charitable dollars now comes from a DAF How DAFs work and the tax advantages that attract donors Common misconceptions about DAF payout rates and “hoarding” concerns The 10x increase in average gift size when donors switch from credit cards to DAFs Practical steps nonprofits can take to build a DAF strategy How to leverage DAF Day and integrate DAF messaging into existing fundraising campaigns Mentioned in This Episode: Chariot – https://www.givechariot.com This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox – https://www.donorbox.org 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!

Tim Elmore In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter welcomes Dr. Tim Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders and author of The Future Begins With Z, for a thought-provoking discussion on how nonprofit and social impact organizations can better attract, engage, and retain Generation Z talent. Drawing from decades of experience and recent research with over 2,000 Gen Z individuals, Tim shares surprising insights about Gen Z’s workplace mindset, their desire for purpose-driven work, and how leaders can adapt to unlock the potential of this emerging generation. Tim dispels common myths about Gen Z—including the idea that they lack work ethic—and instead highlights their unique strengths: intuitive tech skills, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial thinking, and a deep passion for social justice. He offers practical, data-backed strategies for nonprofit leaders to become more effective mentors, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and design roles that engage Gen Zers in meaningful ways. If your organization is looking to future-proof its team and mission, this episode is a must-listen. Key Topics Include: Why Gen Z may be the solution to future challenges—not just another workforce “problem” The Peter Pan Paradox: how the age of authority is decreasing while the age of maturity rises Practical tips for recruiting and retaining Gen Z talent, including optimizing your website and onboarding experience How reverse mentoring can empower Gen Zers and improve your leadership Creating a “first job” experience that inspires loyalty and learning Strategies for addressing Gen Z’s mental health needs with empathy and structure How Gen Z is reshaping views on leadership, feedback, and workplace culture Mentioned in This Episode: Tim Elmore’s website: TimElmore.com The Future Begins With Z (Tim’s latest book) This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox.org 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!

Matt Nash Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Matt Nash, Executive Director of The Blackbaud Giving Fund, to unpack the recent changes in federal tax law that significantly impact corporate giving. With corporate philanthropy under increased scrutiny and new tax hurdles on the horizon, Matt offers timely insights and actionable advice for nonprofits looking to maintain or grow their corporate donor base. The discussion dives into how the 1% income floor for corporate charitable deductions, taking effect in 2026, might affect corporate giving patterns—particularly for small and mid-sized nonprofits. Matt shares strategies for strengthening corporate relationships, tailoring outreach based on business size, and leveraging tools like AI and workplace giving platforms to better tell your story and attract support. Key Topics Include: The impact of the new 1% income threshold for corporate tax deductions starting in 2026 Why brand image and community presence are bigger motivators for corporate giving than tax deductions How nonprofits can adapt their strategy for small, mid-sized, and large corporations The importance of storytelling, emotional connection, and measurable impact reporting in donor relations How to leverage volunteerism and in-kind donations even when corporate cash gifts are cut Best practices for sustaining and deepening corporate partnerships during policy and funding shifts Why AI tools and online presence matter more than ever for workplace giving platforms Mentioned in This Episode: The Blackbaud Giving Fund Matt Nash on LinkedIn The Blackbaud Giving Fund 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 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!

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 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!

Julia Campbell In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter is joined by Julia Campbell, a renowned nonprofit strategist and host of the Nonprofit Nation podcast. With over 20 years in the field, Julia shares the latest data-backed fundraising trends shaping 2026 and what nonprofits can do to thrive amidst economic shifts and evolving donor expectations. Julia emphasizes the growing importance of recurring giving programs, the need for intentional donor communication, and why many nonprofits are leaving billions on the table. She also dives into the impact of generational wealth transfer, how AI and technology can support donor engagement, and how storytelling—not just data—can move donors to action. Tune in to learn innovative approaches, digital strategies, and the mindset shifts nonprofit leaders need to succeed in today’s changing landscape. Key Topics Include: Why recurring giving is essential in a subscription-based world How nonprofits are unintentionally losing out on $52 billion in potential donations The myth of donor fatigue—and what donors are really tired of Storytelling strategies that drive donor engagement and retention Effective use of AI for content repurposing and personalized communication Innovative fundraising tactics using SMS, Facebook DMs, and short-form video How to connect with Gen Z and millennial donors through mission-focused social content Mentioned in This Episode: Julia Campbell’s Website: jcsocialmarketing.com Julia’s Podcast: Nonprofit Nation Podcast GivingTuesday Data Commons: givingtuesday.org/data Plummer Youth Promise: plummeryouthpromise.org Amirah, Inc.: amirahinc.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 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!

Betsy Schmidt In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter sits down with Elizabeth “Betsy” Schmidt, senior research fellow at the University of Massachusetts and author of the new book Rules of the Road for Nonprofit Leaders. Betsy brings her decades of experience in public policy and nonprofit law to the table to demystify complex legal frameworks and help leaders leverage the law to support their mission. Together, Rob and Betsy explore the often misunderstood legal and ethical responsibilities of nonprofit leaders. From navigating political activity and advocacy to understanding the distinctions between 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, this episode offers practical and empowering guidance for social impact organizations seeking to remain compliant and mission-focused in an evolving landscape. Key Topics Include: The difference between 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, and when to consider forming a C4 Legal boundaries for nonprofit advocacy, lobbying, and political activity How staying true to your mission often ensures legal compliance Best practices for nonprofit governance, financial oversight, and ethics How federal and state-level regulations are shifting and what to watch for in 2026 Common legal pitfalls nonprofits face and how to avoid them Resources and tools for staying up to date with nonprofit law Mentioned in This Episode: Rules of the Road for Nonprofit Leaders (Georgetown University Press) NonprofitRules.com Bookshop.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 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!

Robert Stack Host Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Robert Stack, President and CEO of Community Options, a nonprofit that has been at the forefront of providing safe, dignified, and inclusive care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Stack shares his personal journey that led him into this field, beginning with volunteering as a young seminarian and evolving into decades of nonprofit leadership. Robert offers eye-opening insights into the challenges and injustices still facing the disability care sector—from exploitative practices by private equity firms to deeply flawed state-run institutions. He also outlines Community Options’ impactful approach: prioritizing person-centered care, scaling nonprofit services responsibly, and advocating for inclusive employment that uplifts people with disabilities. His book, Silent No Longer, is a call to action for society to demand dignity and rights for all individuals, regardless of ability. Key Topics Include: The negative impact of private equity investment in disability care services How state-run institutions often prioritize employment over quality care The injustice of sub-minimum wages and legal aversion therapies still used in some states The importance of inclusive employment and its social benefits for individuals with disabilities Community Options’ approach to personalized care and their growth across 12 states Why mentorship and dignity-driven programming lead to better outcomes What Robert Stack hopes readers take away from his book Silent No Longer Mentioned in This Episode: Community Options RobertStack.org Silent No Longer (Book) 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 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!