The NonProfit Nook
The NonProfit Nook
Wendy Kidd
Welcome to The NonProfit Nook — the podcast for nonprofit leaders, board members, staff, and community champions who want to strengthen their organizations and make a bigger impact... without burning out in the process. I’m Wendy Kidd—business owner for over 20 years and nonprofit leader for just as long. I created this show because I know how overwhelming it can be to lead a nonprofit. Most of us didn’t get into this work thinking we’d be running a business—we just wanted to help people. But the truth is, running a nonprofit *is* running a business, and I’m here to help make that part easier. Each week on The NonProfit Nook, you’ll get real talk and real tools. We’ll dive into the nuts and bolts of nonprofit management—strategic planning, budgeting, board engagement, donor communication, volunteer recruitment, and more. No fluff—just practical advice and conversations that help you work smarter and lead with confidence. You’ll also hear: - Stories from inspiring North Texas nonprofits and the local heroes behind them - Tips from experts on marketing, digital tools, DEI, nonprofit culture, and sustainable leadership - Real conversations about burnout, boundaries, time management, and self-care—because leadership shouldn’t feel lonely Whether you're leading a nonprofit, supporting one, or just passionate about the mission, The NonProfit Nook will give you the tools, encouragement, and inspiration you need to thrive. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review to support the show, and follow us on social media @thenonprofitnook for more nonprofit insights, stories, and resources. Let’s make nonprofit life a little easier—and a lot more impactful.
Why Good Board Members Leave (and How to Stop It)
Wendy Kidd discusses red flags to watch for before and after joining a nonprofit board, offering practical solutions to build healthier, more effective boards. keywordsnonprofit, board service, governance, leadership, organizational health key topicsRed flags before joining a boardOnboarding and structure for board membersRole clarity and expectationsBoard engagement and accountabilityCommunication and trust in boardsLinks:https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngagedChapters00:00 Introduction to Board Member Red Flags02:04 Red Flags Before Joining a Board05:22 Red Flags After Joining a Board12:37 Addressing Board Issues and Building Better BoardsMentioned in this episode:Enji
Apr 8
16 min
The 3 Stages of Successful Fundraising Events
Wendy Kidd explores the essential steps for successful nonprofit fundraising events, emphasizing planning before, during, and after the event to maximize impact and build lasting relationships. keywords nonprofit, fundraising, event planning, donor engagement, sponsorship, post-event follow-up key topics Pre-event goal setting and data analysis Targeted guest invitation strategies Securing sponsorships and in-kind donations Creating a compelling fundraising moment Post-event follow-up and relationship building LinksLinksGet the companion checklist here: https://www.thenonprofitnook.com/pl/2148762744https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngagedMentioned in this episode:Enji
Mar 31
37 min
Top 5 Mistakes Nonprofits Make With Their Annual Events
Wendy Kidd shares the five biggest mistakes nonprofits make with their annual events and how to avoid them, focusing on branding, event flow, leadership roles, donation methods, and mission focus.keywords: nonprofit events, fundraising, event planning, nonprofit strategy, donor engagementkey topicsEvent branding and visibilityCreating a clear event timelineRole of leadership during eventsEasy donation methods during eventsAligning event planning with mission impactLinks: https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngagedChapters00:00Introduction: Common issues at nonprofit events00:32Mistake 1: Lack of branding at the event04:37Mistake 2: No clear event timeline05:34Mistake 3: Overloading the executive director08:04Mistake 4: No easy donation methods09:38Mistake 5: Focus on event over missionMentioned in this episode:Enji
Mar 10
12 min
How to Build Systems When You Don't Have Time
In this episode, Wendy Kidd discusses the challenges nonprofit leaders face in establishing systems amidst their busy schedules. She emphasizes that systems are essential for creating time and reducing overwhelm. By starting with simple documentation of existing processes, leaders can gradually build effective systems that enhance organizational efficiency and sustainability. Wendy provides practical steps for tracking tasks, refining processes, and ensuring knowledge transfer within the organization, ultimately advocating for a systematic approach to nonprofit management.Links:Boss Day Sign Up: https://bosslevelengaged.myflodesk.com/bossday2 https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/business-coachhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged takeawaysSystems are not something you build when you have time; they create time.Start with documenting what you already do, not perfection.Task management software can help organize your processes.Reserve dedicated time to refine your documented processes.Your brain holds institutional knowledge that needs to be documented.Documenting processes helps in onboarding and offboarding staff.One documented process can lead to another, creating a flow.Start small and build systems gradually over time.These systems free your brain and protect your mission.Nonprofits need stability beyond one heroic leader.Chapters00:00 Overcoming Overwhelm in Nonprofits03:19 The Importance of Documentation06:09 Creating a Systematic Approach10:02 Building Sustainable Systemskeywordsnonprofit leadership, systems, documentation, project management, sustainability, workflow, organization, time management, delegation, trainingMentioned in this episode:Enji
Feb 24
15 min
Spotlight on Foundation for C.H.O.I.C.E.: A Structured Approach to Transforming Young Lives
In this conversation, Wendy Kidd interviews Colleen Mier, the Executive Director of Foundation for C.H.O.I.C.E., a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring at-risk youth in North Texas. Colleen shares the origins of the foundation, its structured curriculum aimed at empowering students, and the importance of community engagement and volunteerism. The discussion highlights the transformative power of mentorship and education in shaping the futures of young individuals.Links:Www.foundationforchoice.orglinkedin.com/in/colleen-mier-43674131https://www.instagram.com/foundation_for_c.h.o.i.c.ehttps://www.facebook.com/FoundationForCHOICECareer Exploration-https://lnkd.in/gYBZS2cvhttps://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngagedTakeaways:Foundation for Choice was co-founded in 2014 to support at-risk youth.The program matches students with one-on-one mentors for a structured curriculum.Mentorship can significantly change a student's perspective on education and career.The organization is expanding its reach across Texas to serve more students.Community involvement is crucial for the success of nonprofit initiatives.Mentors gain as much from the experience as the students do.The curriculum focuses on growth mindset, goal setting, and soft skills.Volunteers are needed for various roles, including mentoring and career guidance.Education is seen as a pathway to freedom and opportunity.The organization utilizes social media to engage with the community and showcase student achievements.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Foundation for Choice02:55 The Impact of Mentorship on At-Risk Youth05:53 Building a Structured Curriculum for Success08:52 Community Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities11:55 The Importance of Education and Career ExplorationKeywords:nonprofit, mentoring, at-risk youth, education, community engagement, Foundation for Choice, career opportunities, volunteer, youth empowerment, structured curriculumMentioned in this episode:Enji
Feb 17
17 min
Interview with Tawnia Wise: Lessons from Become a Nonprofit Pro
In this conversation, Tawnia Wise shares her insights on nonprofit leadership, the common pitfalls faced by nonprofit organizations, and the importance of strategic thinking and self-care for leaders. She discusses her book 'Become a Nonprofit Pro' and emphasizes the need for sustainable practices in nonprofit management. Tawnia also highlights the significance of financial literacy and the necessity of building organizations that can outlive their founders.Links:https://www.wiseresourcedevelopment.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/tawniawise/Become a Nonprofit Prohttps://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngagedTakeaways:Tawnia Wise emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking in nonprofit leadership.Operating in a reactive mode limits sustainability and strategic planning.Nonprofit leaders often care too much, leading to burnout.Self-care is crucial for effective leadership in nonprofits.Martyrdom is not a badge of honor; leaders must protect their peace.Building sustainable organizations requires infrastructure and planning.Financial literacy is essential for nonprofit success.Nonprofits can be in a startup phase regardless of their age.Clarity on values helps leaders make better decisions.Setting boundaries is vital for nonprofit leaders.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tawnia Wise and Her Journey03:58 The Inspiration Behind 'Become a Nonprofit Pro'06:38 Common Pitfalls in Nonprofit Leadership09:28 The Importance of Strategic Mindset12:13 Caring for Yourself as a Leader14:52 Building a Legacy in Nonprofits17:47 Practical Advice for Nonprofit Sustainability20:23 Implementing the Book's Lessons23:27 Final Thoughts and ResourcesMentioned in this episode:BenevolateEnji
Feb 10
32 min
Spotlight on Lift R&R: Empowering Communities Through Nonprofit Collaboration
In this episode of the Nonprofit Nook, Wendy Kidd interviews Rolanda Macharia, the founder and executive director of Lift R & R, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential resources and hope to individuals in need. Rolanda shares her passion for helping others, the mission of Lift R & R, and the importance of collaboration among nonprofits. She discusses the challenges faced by nonprofits, success stories of individuals they have helped, and how people can get involved with Lift R & R.Linkshttps://liftrandr.org/https://www.facebook.com/share/1DWaNz4miT/?mibextid=wwXIfrEvent signup form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeorJDuBRssOhb_8VLMLYOSO_eeuSIb01e9cqXlzrvICzyx4w/viewformhttps://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngagedTakeawaysLift R & R stands for laboring in the field together, resources and referrals.The mission is to collaborate with nonprofits across Collin County.They target individuals in need, nonprofits, and businesses in the community.Collaboration is key to providing resources effectively.Success stories highlight the impact of their work on individuals' lives.Building relationships with other nonprofits is crucial for resource sharing.Nonprofits often face challenges with funding and visibility.It's important to vet organizations before making referrals.People can support nonprofits by volunteering or donating.Collectively, we can make a difference in the community.Mentioned in this episode:BenevolateEnji
Feb 3
22 min
Spotlight on Missing Pieces Support Group: Supporting Those Facing Pregnancy Loss
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd interviews Anh Nguyen, the Director of the Dallas-Fort Worth chapter of Missing Pieces Support Group. Anh discusses the organization's mission to support women and families experiencing pregnancy loss through curated care packages and support groups. The conversation highlights the importance of acknowledging pregnancy loss as a significant grief event and offering appropriate resources. Anh shares inspirational stories, volunteer needs, and upcoming initiatives, including meditation groups and fundraising events. Listeners are encouraged to support Missing Pieces and connect with Anh for more information.Links:https://missingpiecessupportgroup.orghttps://missingpiecessupportgroup.org/resources/dfw-missingpieces/ https://missingpiecessupportgroup.org/loss-support/ https://linkedin.com/in/AnhTNguyen170https://linkedin.com/company/missing-pieces-support-group-texashttps://instagram.com/missingpiecessupporthttps://facebook.com/missingpiecessupporthttps://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged00:00 Introduction and Personal Experiences with Pregnancy Loss00:35 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook01:22 Introducing Anh Nguyen and Missing Pieces Support Group03:37 Support Services and Care Packages07:42 The Importance of Awareness and Breaking the Silence11:26 Success Stories and Personal Reflections19:44 Challenges in Nonprofit Work22:38 How to Get Involved with Missing Pieces26:56 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMentioned in this episode:EnjiBenevolate
Jan 27
30 min
Nonprofit Myths: Stories We Need to Stop Telling Ourselves
In this episode of The NonProfit Nook, host Wendy Kidd tackles prevalent myths that hinder nonprofit organizations. She addresses misconceptions such as non-profits shouldn't make a profit, nonprofits can't pay well, nonprofits are competitors, and the anxiety around fundraising. Wendy emphasizes the importance of financial sustainability, fair compensation, collaboration, and relationship-based fundraising to build stronger and more effective nonprofits. Tune in to learn how to challenge these myths and improve your organization's practices.Links:https://www.bosslevelengaged.com/services-for-nonprofits-nonprofitnookhttps://thenonprofitnook.com/https://www.youtube.com/@BossLevelEngaged00:00 Welcome to The NonProfit Nook00:52 Myth Busting for Nonprofits01:52 Myth 1: Nonprofits Aren't Supposed to Make a Profit03:39 Myth 2: Nonprofits Can't or Won't Pay Well05:28 Myth 3: Nonprofits Are Each Other's Competition07:02 Myth 4: I'm Not Good at Fundraising08:35 Conclusion and Call to ActionMentioned in this episode:EnjiBenevolate
Jan 20
12 min
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