Many nonprofit boards call themselves “working boards.” There’s nothing wrong with board members rolling up their sleeves. But that label can quietly shape what a board believes its job is—and how it spends its time. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah unpack the “working board” myth and why every nonprofit board is a governing board, no matter how hands-on its members are. They explore how focusing on roles instead of labels can help boards make room for the big-picture conversations that only ...

$326 billion. That's how much money is currently sitting in Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) waiting to be directed to great causes like yours. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah break down the basics of DAFs, explain why they matter to nonprofits of all sizes, and share practical ways organizations can position themselves to receive more DAF support. Whether you're new to DAFs or looking to strengthen your fundraising strategy, this conversation will help you better understand this growing sou...

Every nonprofit faces leadership changes. Change is inevitable. With the right approach, a leadership change can become a chance to pause, reflect, and prepare for what's ahead. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore how organizations can navigate a leadership change with confidence. They discuss the role of interim leadership and how boards can transform an in-between period into a time of stability, reflection, and growth. In this episode, Nancy mentions a report she authored...

A monthly donor program often feels like a big lift, but it does not have to be. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah sit down with monthly giving specialist Garrett Freibott-Kalt to unpack what it takes to build a sustainable base of supporters. You will walk away with a clearer picture of where to start, what keeps donors coming back, and why recurring giving can create more stability and connection for your nonprofit over time. Question to consider before listening: Are recurring donors ...

Small nonprofits have more going for them than they often give themselves credit for. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore an encouraging report from Bridgespan on the strengths that help small and midsize organizations build resilient funding strategies — and how to put those strengths to work with more intention. If you've been focusing on what's missing lately, this conversation offers a reason to look at what's already there. Question to consider before listening: Which of your ...

Grassroots donations may feel small, but their impact is anything but. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah reflect on a recent article about the decline in everyday giving and why small nonprofits should pay attention. From monthly giving to radical transparency, they explore practical ways organizations can rebuild trust, strengthen community connection, and create fundraising strategies that invite more people into the mission. If fundraising has started to feel like it’s only for major donors...

Are you struggling with board engagement? If so, you’re not alone—it’s one of the most common challenges nonprofits face. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore why smart, committed people sometimes hold back—and what actually helps them step in, speak up, and follow through. You’ll leave with practical ideas to make it easier for your board to participate. Question to consider before listening: How engaged are your board members? Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend. Want to ...

Every new board member arrives with fresh energy and new perspectives. Channeling that energy into helpful engagement takes intention and care. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah walk through what it takes to set new board members up for success — from building deep organizational knowledge to helping them discover how they can make the greatest difference. Whether you're welcoming one new member or several, you'll walk away with practical, actionable ideas you can put to work right away. Quest...

A leadership transition is one of the most pivotal moments a nonprofit will ever face. It involves far more than simply finding the next executive director. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah talk through how organizations can navigate this change in a way that actually makes them stronger. Good transitions take time, intention, and thoughtful attention to the people involved. You will come away feeling genuinely hopeful about what is possible. Mentioned: Interim Leadership in the Nonprof...

Setting a fundraising goal is one of the most important steps in building a healthy fundraising program—and it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah break down how to set a fundraising goal your whole team can believe in. They make the process feel manageable—whether you're working from years of history or just getting started. You'll come away with the confidence and clarity to set a goal that's both realistic and inspiring. Question to consider bef...