Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell

In today’s nonprofit sector, transparency isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategic lever for equity, credibility, and access to resources. Amid growing scrutiny, shifting donor expectations, and declining federal funding, nonprofits must find new ways to build trust and demonstrate value. In this timely and essential episode of Nonprofit Nation, I welcome Brittany Hall, Senior Director of Equitable Access at Candid, to discuss how nonprofits can use Candid’s Seals of Transparency to strengthen their public profiles, build donor trust, and unlock critical funding—especially for smaller, underfunded, and BIPOC-led organizations. With the launch of the new 2026 Seals, Candid is doubling down on accessibility, shared data standards, and transparency as public infrastructure for the sector. Brittany also shares insights from Candid’s recent blog post, Meeting This Moment: Helping Nonprofits That Lost Federal Funding, and explains how Candid is adapting its tools and strategy to support organizations hit hardest by changing funding flows. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or funder, this episode will challenge you to see transparency not as compliance—but as a powerful tool for systemic change. 💡 Key Topics: not💼 About Brittany Hall Brittany Hall is Senior Director of Equitable Access at Candid, a nonprofit dedicated to making the social sector more efficient, equitable, and effective by sharing information about foundations and nonprofit organizations. She is spearheading efforts to identify and overcome barriers faced by historically underrepresented groups in accessing funding by providing nonprofits with equitable access to the networks, skills, and resources necessary for them to effectively carry out their missions. Above all, her work is centered in ensuring that all nonprofits, regardless of their background, have fair and equitable access to funding, enabling them to deliver sustainable impact and advance community trust, opportunity, and overall quality of life. Brittany currently serves as the chair of the board of directors for the Contemporary Arts Network (CAN) Foundation, an organization dedicated to building sustainable careers for the creative class through artist development, arts education, and public art projects, while strengthening communities through the arts. 🔗 Resources & Links: Claim or update your nonprofit profile Blog: Meeting This Moment – Helping Nonprofits That Lost Federal Funding Candid BlogTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What if the biggest barrier to your fundraising success isn’t your strategy or your donor list — but your workplace culture? In this insightful episode, I sit down with Marcia Beckner, a nationally recognized nonprofit founder, CEO mentor, culture strategist, and host of the Nonprofit CEO SPARK podcast. Marcia is the creator of the Culture CARES® Framework, a proven model for helping nonprofit leaders build healthy, inclusive, and empowering organizational cultures where everyone can thrive — and where fundraising can flourish. Marcia shares her powerful personal journey, beginning with a life-altering ovarian cancer diagnosis in her 20s that led her to found MyLifeLine Cancer Foundation. Under her leadership, the organization grew nationally and eventually merged with a global nonprofit, reaching over 300,000 cancer patients and families. Today, Marcia works with mission-driven leaders across the country to tackle a commonly overlooked truth: your culture is your growth engine. Without alignment, even the best fundraising strategies fall flat. But when leadership, values, and strategy are united? Teams thrive. Revenue grows. Burnout fades. 💡 You’ll learn: Whether you're an executive director, fundraiser, or board leader, this episode offers a fresh, energizing perspective on what it really takes to build sustainable, thriving nonprofits. 💼 About Marcia Beckner Marcia Beckner is the Founder & CEO of Culture CARES®, a consulting firm that helps nonprofit executives lead with confidence, unify their teams, and build inclusive cultures. She created the Culture CARES® Framework, a practical, proven approach to healthy workplace cultures. After being diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 27, Marcia founded MyLifeLine Cancer Foundation in 2007 with a vision to transform the cancer experience through connection and community. She led its national growth and successful merger with the Cancer Support Community, expanding its impact to more than 300,000 cancer patients and families. Today, Marcia guides nonprofit leaders through executive coaching, mentoring, and strategic advisory services. Her clients have included the Epilepsy Foundation, Colorado College, Colorado Nonprofit Association, Beryl Institute, The Art Garage, Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary, The Collaborative of the SCFD in Denver, and many more. Her passion is helping organizations build healthy, empowering, and inclusive cultures where all staff can thrive. 🔗 Resources and Links www.CultureCARES.com Nonprofit CEO SPARKYou Are Meant for Great Things www.MyLifeLine.orgLinkedIn Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Social Media for Social Good Academy is OPEN for enrollment! Class starts Feb 23 so don't delay - sign up now! Social media is not slowing down. But here’s the good news: you do not need to do everything. In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, I’m breaking down what’s actually working right now, and what you can safely ignore. Because 2026 is not the year to chase every shiny object. It’s the year to get focused. I'm talking about: If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, this episode will help you simplify. Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Workplace giving is one of the most underused tools in a fundraiser’s toolkit—but it’s also one of the most powerful. More than 26 million U.S. employees have access to workplace giving programs, and in 2024, they donated an estimated $3 billion to nonprofits. With corporate matches included, the average employee gift totaled $1,744. That’s a major opportunity! In this episode, we’re talking about why workplace giving is so much more than a matching gift: it’s a strategic lever for building stronger donor relationships, deepening community partnerships, and expanding your reach to younger, purpose-driven supporters. My guest is Matt Nash, Executive Director of The Blackbaud Giving Fund, which has disbursed more than $1.6 billion to over 195,000 nonprofits around the world. He’s also a former senior leader at Fidelity Charitable and brings decades of insight into donor behavior, corporate philanthropy, and what’s next for fundraising. 💡 Together, we explore: We also highlight a real-world example from Note in the Pocket, a North Carolina nonprofit that doubled its corporate volunteer hours between 2022 and 2024. When a hurricane hit, their workplace giving partnerships paid off in a big way—one company stepped in with space, funding, and logistical support to help keep their back-to-school programs on track. It’s a powerful reminder that the relationships you build through workplace giving don’t just boost donations—they build resilience. This episode will give you a roadmap to strengthen your workplace giving strategy—and head into the new year ready to grow. 🔗 Links & Resources https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-nash/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-blackbaud-giving-fund/https://www.facebook.com/BlackbaudGivingFundhttps://www.instagram.com/blackbaudgivingfund/Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

In this episode, Julia Campbell discusses the evolving landscape of nonprofit social media management in 2026. She shares insights on the challenges faced by social media managers, including low engagement rates and the importance of community building. Julia provides five essential tips for effective social media management, emphasizing the need for time management, mental health breaks, and the acceptance of imperfection in content creation. She encourages listeners to advocate for themselves within their organizations and highlights the significance of marketing as part of the nonprofit mission. Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What does it really mean to lead through change—especially when you're still figuring things out yourself? This week on Nonprofit Nation, we’re diving into what it takes to navigate organizational change with a growth mindset. My guest is Sabine Gedeon—executive coach, transformational speaker, and host of The Aligned Leader Show podcast. She has 20 years of experience guiding leaders and organizations through critical moments of growth, change, and reinvention. We talk about the reality behind change—what it feels like to lead in the messy middle, why high-achieving leaders often hide their process, and how vulnerability can become a strategic advantage. Sabine brings a rare mix of emotional intelligence and practical wisdom to this conversation—reminding us that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about staying open, steady, and self-aware as you grow. 🔍 We explore: Sabine’s insights are especially relevant for nonprofit leaders navigating transition, burnout, or major strategic shifts. Her reflection questions and mindset frameworks offer a grounded way to stay clear and connected—even in seasons of uncertainty. 💼 About Sabine Gedeon Sabine Gedeon is a transformational speaker, executive coach, and leadership strategist with over 20 years of experience guiding leaders and organizations through critical moments of growth, change, and reinvention. As the founder of Gedeon Enterprises, she partners with high-impact leaders to build resilience, strengthen team alignment, and lead with greater clarity and influence. Her work has been featured in national media, and in 2025, she was named one of Influence Digest’s Top 15 Coaches in San Diego. Sabine holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership, is a certified ICF Professional Coach, and is the author of Transformed: The Journey to Becoming and two additional books on self-leadership and personal power. 🧰 Resources & Links: https://sabinegedeon.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabinegedeon/Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What happens when a nonprofit loses critical federal funding overnight? And how can we prepare for even greater funding shifts ahead? In this episode, we explore the changing landscape of charitable funding—what’s happening now, what’s coming with the 2026 federal budget, and how nonprofits can build resilience in the face of uncertainty. My guest is Kendall Webb, a pioneer in digital philanthropy and the Founder & Executive Director of Charity Bridge Fund—a new, nonpartisan platform that connects donors with nonprofits that have lost federal funding. With over 25 years of experience at the intersection of giving, technology, and impact, Kendall brings both a big-picture perspective and practical advice for today’s nonprofit leaders. 💡 We discuss: Kendall also shares powerful insights from her own journey—from co-founding WorldTeach as a Harvard undergrad, to launching JustGive, one of the first online donation platforms, to volunteering as an EMT and clinic support worker in her local community. Her career is a testament to what’s possible when innovation, service, and generosity come together. 💼 About Kendall Webb Kendall Webb is a pioneer in online philanthropy, with over 25 years of experience shaping the way individuals, nonprofits, and companies engage in charitable giving. As the Founder & Executive Director of Charity Bridge Fund, she has been a trusted advisor on digital giving strategy, helping organizations and corporations integrate meaningful giving programs into their platforms. Kendall’s passion for impact began early. As a Harvard undergraduate, she helped launch WorldTeach, a global education nonprofit. After early roles at Goldman Sachs and the World Bank, she volunteered in Uganda, deepening her commitment to service and international development. Upon returning to the U.S., Kendall joined the founding team at More.com, one of the earliest e-commerce platforms. It was there that she recognized the Internet’s power to transform philanthropy—a realization that led her to launch one of the first nonprofit donation platforms on the web in 2000. Since then, Kendall has remained at the forefront of digital giving—building strategic partnerships, advising on donation infrastructure, and working to ensure that generosity remains accessible, transparent, and impactful in the digital age. 🧰 Resources & Links: https://www.charitybridgefund.org/Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Feeling stretched too thin? Wondering how your nonprofit will survive the next wave of challenges? You’re not alone. As we head into 2026, nonprofit leaders are asking tough questions: Where is funding going? Why is donor behavior shifting? How can we keep our teams motivated in the face of burnout and uncertainty? This week, I’m joined by Rob Harter — veteran nonprofit executive, leadership coach, and host of the long-running Nonprofit Leadership Podcast — to explore what’s really happening across the sector, and where the hope lies. Drawing from his decades of experience, his writing on organizational health and leadership, and the hundreds of interviews he’s conducted on the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob offers a hopeful — but honest — roadmap for social impact organizations navigating change. 🔍 About Rob Harter Rob is a nonprofit executive professional with over 30 years of experience in leading and building social impact organizations. Rob is known as an inspirational leader with contagious energy and entrepreneurial spirit. He is a frequent speaker and seminar facilitator, and he founded and hosts the “Nonprofit Leadership Podcast”, which has had over 541,000 downloads, is heard in 179 countries and is in the top 1.5% of all podcasts globally according to Listen Notes. Rob has been a member of and contributor for the Forbes Nonprofit Council. Rob was invited to be part of Harvard Business School’s “Young American Leaders Program”. He also serves on the Utah Advisory Committee for the US Global Leadership Coalition. Rob has chaired the MLK Jr. Commission for Human Rights for the State of Utah and served as the Chair of the Utah Nonprofit Association’s Board as well as serving on the Park City Chamber of Commerce. Rob was voted as the professional “Citizen of the Year” for Park City by the local Rotary club, received the Park City “Chief’s Award for Community Service” and was also recognized as a “Hometown Hero” by Salt Lake Magazine. Most recently, Rob has launched his own Coaching business Rob Harter Coaching and Consulting as a way to invest in and strengthen leaders and individuals to grow both personally and professionally. He is a certified Professional Coach and Certified Enneagram Instructor along with being a Neurofeedback trained technician. Rob has received a Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate degrees. He loves deep powder skiing, hiking, cycling, reading great books, and traveling to new places. Most of all, Rob loves spending quality time with his amazing wife and family. 🧰 Resources & Links: https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/https://robharter.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rob-harter-25457313/Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

If you’ve ever wondered whether AI is actually useful for your nonprofit - and how to implement without tech-savvy or overwhelm - this episode is for you. Joining me are Darian Rodriguez Heyman, social entrepreneur, nonprofit strategist, Heyman also founded AI4NP.org, a national hub for AI education in the social sector, and Cheryl Contee, a pioneering technology entrepreneur and digital transformation expert and Chief Innovation Officer at BrightWorksAI.com and co-author of the new book AI for Nonprofits: Putting Artificial Intelligence to Work for Your Cause, Darian and Cheryl bring a wealth of insight into how nonprofits can harness AI to work smarter, not harder. AI for Nonprofits is a practical, resource-rich guide based on interviews with 57 nonprofit leaders (including me!) who are successfully leveraging AI to enhance fundraising, streamline operations, and engage supporters more effectively — all while staying grounded in mission, values, and ethics. Together, we explore the most accessible tools, the smartest use cases, and the common pitfalls to avoid when adopting AI in your organization. Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting, you'll come away with actionable next steps to help you move forward confidently. 🎧 In This Episode, We Discuss: 🧰 Resources & Links: AI for Nonprofits💼 Guest Bio Cheryl Contee is the Chief Innovation Officer at BrightWorksAI.com. She is a pioneering technology entrepreneur and digital transformation expert. Cheryl is renowned as a trailblazing startup founder and a trusted advisor on innovation & impact. She inspires audiences globally as a leading voice on inclusive entrepreneurship and social enterprise. She has co-authored a bestselling new book called "AI for Nonprofits: Putting Artificial Intelligence to Work for Your Cause" with Darian Rodriguez Heyman sharing insights from over 50 AI experts intended to help nonprofit leaders embrace new tech. She is also a senior advisor for PosterChild.AI and co-founder of Change Agent AI, mission-driven & gamechanging AI powered startups. Darian Rodriguez Heyman is a seasoned nonprofit leader, fundraiser, and social entrepreneur best known for making complex ideas accessible and actionable. He began his impact journey as Executive Director of Craigslist Foundation, where he launched the Nonprofit Boot Camp — which quickly became the largest nonprofit gathering in the Bay Area. He’s the author of Nonprofit Fundraising 101, editor of the best-selling Nonprofit Management 101, and most recently, co-author of AI for Nonprofits: Putting Artificial Intelligence to Work for Your Cause, a tactical guide featuring insights from 57 nonprofit leaders on how to responsibly and effectively integrate AI into fundraising, marketing, program delivery, and operations. Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

"We’re not just telling stories anymore—we’re helping people make sense of the world." That’s the powerful message behind this week’s episode of Nonprofit Nation featuring Kristen Grimm, founder and strategist of Spitfire Strategies, a leading communications firm that helps nonprofits, foundations, and social changemakers sharpen their voice and deepen their impact. In this conversation, Kristen introduces the concept of “meaning-making” — the process of helping people interpret what’s happening around them, understand what it means, and decide how to act. With the world experiencing unprecedented levels of uncertainty, polarization, and complexity, Kristen argues that communicators now face a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help people cut through the noise and find clarity, purpose, and direction. Drawing on her recently published meaning-making blog series, Kristen shares a timely roadmap for nonprofit leaders looking to rise above the chaos and communicate with resonance. You’ll hear about the different phases of meaning-making, how to spot a "meaning-making window" when it opens, and why now is the time to shift from persuasion to perspective-shaping. 🔍 In This Episode, We Discuss: 💼 About Kristen Grimm Kristen is the founder of Spitfire Strategies, a public interest firm focused on advancing racial, economic and social justice, protecting the environment and promoting opportunity for all. She has extensive experience running smart communication and campaign efforts that create lasting social change. A hopeful strategist, she believes progress is always possible, setbacks are sources of inspiration and building beyond the choir is where the real work is. She is the mastermind behind Spitfire’s Smart Chart, Planning to Win, Mindful Messaging and Replenishing Trust, thinks fast in a crisis, is deft at drawing phenomenal visionary speeches out of leaders and is someone you want in your corner when you’re ready to go big. When it comes to storytelling, all you need to know is that her last name is Grimm. 🧰 Resources & Links: Kristen Grimm’s Meaning-Making Series – Spitfire StrategiesMeaning-Making: An Idea Whose Time Has Come and How to Make It Come to Fruition Meaning-Making: Approaches to Consider Meaning-Making: Live Examples We Can Watch Play OutTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Social media success isn’t just about posting content and hoping for the best. It's about strategy, audience insight, and internal advocacy. This was originally a live conversation on LinkedIn. Listen in to my conversation with Kate Meyers Emery, Ph.D., Senior Digital Comms Manager at Candid and one of the most insightful voices speaking up about what social media professionals really need to succeed. Kate shares why social media needs to be seen as an organization-wide responsibility, how SMMs can elevate their role beyond “just posting,” and what nonprofits must do to ensure these roles are sustainable and strategic going into 2026. In this episode, we cover: team sportAbout Kate: With over 14 years of experience, Kate Meyers Emery, Ph.D., has proven track record of using experimentation, data, and creativity to transform complex stories into simple yet compelling content on social media, web, email, and other digital platforms. She is a data nerd who uses her depth of industry knowledge, natural curiosity, and background in anthropology to create innovative, inclusive, and human-centered stories in digital spaces. Kate has worked with nonprofits, museums, and universities to engage and educate. She is currently the senior digital communications manager at Candid, where she leads the strategy, content production, and analysis of organic social media. Connect with Kate on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meyersemery/ Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

💰 What’s a DAF and why should nonprofits - of every size- care about this trend in giving? My guest this week is Mitch Stein, Head of Strategy at Chariot, a fintech company revolutionizing how nonprofits receive Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) donations. Mitch shows us the growing significance of DAFs - which now hold over $230 billion in charitable assets - and why most nonprofits are still leaving money on the table. From integrating DAFs into digital fundraising to engaging donors more strategically, Mitch shares actionable insights from the field, including recent findings from Chariot’s DAF Fundraising Report. Whether you're new to DAFs or ready to optimize your approach, this conversation offers clear takeaways for every fundraiser and mission-driven leader. 💡 Together, we explore: 💼 About Mitch Stein Mitch Stein is the Head of Strategy for Chariot - a financial technology company focused on DAF payments. Mitch leads the company's stakeholder engagement and industry-wide initiatives like the DAF Fundraising Report and DAF Day. Prior to Chariot, Mitch founded a marketplace for nonprofits called Pond, which connected organizations with the best software and services for their mission. Mitch previously spent 7 years as an Investment Banker at Goldman Sachs, where his work included running client strategy for the CEO and serving as a Vice President in the Technology, Media & Telecom deal team. Mitch is an avid fundraiser for nonprofits himself, having participated in Cycle for the Cause since 2016 and serving as a board member for The LGBT Center of NYC since 2019. 🧰 Resources & Links: Chariot’s WebsiteDAF Fundraising Report DAF DayTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

How do you tell stories that not only inform but inspire people to act? In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, I’m joined by Caroline Keylock, co-founder of LookUP, a global storytelling consultancy helping nonprofits, brands, and agencies harness the power of narrative to drive growth, connection, and impact. Caroline shares her unique perspective drawn from both the nonprofit and commercial sectors, including her work with Wikimedia, Alzheimer’s organizations, and The Communications Network. Her message is clear: in a noisy world filled with apathy and misinformation, storytelling is not a nice-to-have - it’s absolutely essential. 🎧 In This Episode, We Discuss: your storyyour audience’s storyThis is a conversation for communicators, leaders, and change-makers who want their messages to matter, and to move. 💼 About Caroline Keylock Caroline Keylock is co-founder of LookUP, a storytelling consultancy working with people and organisations to drive growth through the power of story. She spends half her time working with non-profits globally (Wikimedia, Alzheimers, The Communications Network); and the other half working with agencies, media owners, and brands who want to harness their story to give them clarity as to their future goals, get their teams to work together more effectively, or sell what they do more effectively. She believes that storytelling has become the essential skill for organisations working in social good, in a world of apathy and disinformation, and LookUP are increasingly working with companies in this space to help them harness this skill. 🧰 Resources & Links: LookUP websiteLinkedInTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What if everything you’ve been taught about fundraising isn’t wrong—but just too safe? In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa L. Stueckemann, CFRE, author of Fundraising Rebel—a book that’s shaking up how we think about donor relationships, generosity, and what it means to lead with courage in today’s fundraising landscape. Lisa is a consultant, mentor, and nationally recognized speaker who’s worked with hundreds of nonprofit teams to help them ditch the “donor-centric” buzzwords and build real, lasting connections instead. In a time when donor trust is down and fundraising feels harder than ever, Lisa offers a refreshing—and rebellious—approach to leadership, authenticity, and generosity. 💡 We talk about: fundraising rebelIf you’re ready to shake off the guilt, say goodbye to outdated scripts, and fundraise with more freedom—this conversation is for you. 💼 Lisa Stueckemann Lisa L. Stueckemann, CFRE, is the author of “Fundraising Rebel.” She has over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from the University of Cincinnati-College Conservatory of Music and Master of Nonprofit Administration from North Park University provide a unique and creative lens to her fundraising strategy and leadership style. She has on-the-ground experience in annual giving, major gifts, corporate philanthropy, event design, cause-marketing, and communications. She truly enjoys encouraging fundraising and marketing teams and forwarding the sector through teaching, consulting, and mentoring. A sought-after speaker on fundraising and leadership, Lisa regularly speaks at local, state, and national conferences. 🧰 Resources & Links: fundraisingrebel.org Fundraising Rebel on AmazonTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What does it take to lead with strength and compassion when your work revolves around trauma, crisis, and healing? In this episode, I’m joined by Bridgette Stumpf, CEO and Co-Founder, and Lindsey Silverberg, Executive Director at Volare, a nonprofit based in Washington, DC that provides free, trauma-informed legal, advocacy, and therapeutic services to survivors of crime. Formerly known as the Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC), Volare has grown from a grassroots startup into a $5M organization with national reach. Bridgette and Lindsey share what it takes to lead in the survivor services space - from building resilient teams and navigating resource scarcity, to advocating for systemic reform and shifting how organizations think about trauma, healing, and justice. We also talk about how they use storytelling, marketing, and even their own podcast (TraumaTies) to engage with their community while honoring the complexity and sensitivity of the work. 💡 In this episode, we cover: 💼 Bridgette Stumpff Bridgette Stumpf, Esq., is the CEO at Volare (formerly Network for Victim Recovery of DC (NVRDC)), a position she has held since co-founding the organization in 2012. She has over 15 years of experience advocating to ensure those impacted by crime are afforded meaningful rights and access to supportive services to mitigate the negative effects of trauma post-victimization. 💼 Lindsey Silverberg Lindsey Silverberg is the Executive Director at Volare In this capacity, Lindsey works to ensure seamless delivery of survivor services in the acute crisis response, advocacy and case management, legal, and therapeutic programs. Her responsibilities range from building infrastructure and support for direct service staff, to educating the local and national community about trauma, and thinking big with Volare's CEO on how to help survivors achieve survivor-defined justice. Lindsey joined Volare as one of the first full time staff members in 2012, as an advocate providing hospital accompaniment for sexual assault survivors, attending court, and offering direct advocacy support to survivors of crime. She received her B.A. from the University of Maryland and her M.A. from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. 🧰 Resources & Links: TraumaTies volare-empowers.orgTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What does it take to build a truly inclusive, culturally competent organization where burnout isn’t the norm — but the exception? In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, I’m joined by Dr. Rick Rodriguez, Co-Founder and Learning Partner at The Rooted Life — a first-generation, LGBTQ+, minority-founded, bilingual coaching and consulting organization that centers people, culture, and identity at the heart of leadership. With over 20 years of experience supporting schools, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations, Rick offers a healing-centered, equity-driven approach to leadership and organizational development. He helps teams go beyond surface-level diversity initiatives to foster environments where people not only feel seen — but truly belong and thrive. 💡 Key Topics: 🔍 About Dr. Rick Rodriguez Rooted in the Chichimeca people of Central and Southern Mexico -Rick is a first-generation Mexicano Americano originally from Laredo, Texas. Rick has lived through and acknowledges the challenges that individuals and communities of color face across our systems. Barriers to success have further fueled his mission to ensure that the work is laser-focused on removing such barriers and mindsets for others. Rick brings experience from the corporate , K-12, and social sectors where his leadership has incorporated collaborative approaches to strategies, structures, and frameworks that center on the needs of individuals, teams, and systems while engaging necessary internal and external stakeholders in the process for progress. Rick is a strong believer in the reality that “Si se puede!” and is determined to lead efforts that bring about what is best for all. Rick holds a B.A. in Sociology from Texas A&M University – San Antonio, an M.S. in Human Resource Development, and an Ed.D in Professional Leadership K-12 from the University of Houston. Now based in La Tierra del Encanto (New Mexico), the mountains are calling and Rick is steadfast in reclaiming what should and will be. 🧰 Resources & Links: https://www.therootedlife.org/abouthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-rodriguez-ed-d-1667b751/Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

🪷Nonprofit Nation is supported by Bloomerang. Download their 12 Year-End Fundraising Checklists and get helpful templates to help you raise more. 🪷 This episode was recorded live on LinkedIn. The final months of the year can feel like a sprint—and for nonprofit fundraisers, it’s often a marathon on top of that. Between Giving Tuesday, holiday campaigns, and meeting year-end goals, teams are juggling outreach, reporting, donor stewardship, and internal pressure to perform with limited resources. But what if fundraisers could move from a place of overwhelm to a sense of abundance—not by working harder, but by working smarter? In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, we’re diving into the power and possibility of AI with Tommy Vacek, Chief Technology Officer at Bloomerang. Tommy brings a unique perspective to this conversation—not only as a tech leader, but as someone deeply invested in building tools that amplify, not replace, human effort in the nonprofit sector. Together, we explore how AI can become a trusted ally to fundraisers, especially during the high-pressure year-end season. From practical ways AI can lighten the lift—like automating repetitive tasks or drafting donor communications—to more strategic considerations around ethics and human connection, this conversation is full of actionable insights for nonprofit leaders looking to embrace AI with confidence and clarity. Tommy also shares a behind-the-scenes look at how Bloomerang is approaching AI within its own platform, and how the company is working to ensure its tools are aligned with the values and real-world challenges of the fundraising community. 🔍 We Discuss: 🧰 Resources & Links: Learn more about Bloomerang's AI tool: https://bloomerang.com/blog/meet-penny/ Connect with Tommy Vacek on LinkedIn 🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷 What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do. That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what mat Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

💰 What if the nonprofit sector could help grow giving by $52 billion every year? That’s not a pie-in-the-sky projection. It’s the real, data-backed opportunity uncovered by Woodrow Rosenbaum, Chief Data Officer at GivingTuesday, in their latest research from GivingTuesday Data Commons: Growing Giving: How Nonprofits Can Unlock Billions in Generosity. In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, Woodrow joins me to share insights that every nonprofit leader, fundraiser, and strategist needs to hear. Drawing from the GivingTuesday Data Commons, which spans 2,000+ collaborators and 150+ data providers around the world, he reveals how to activate hidden giving potential, reach donors who are ready to say "yes," and build lasting generosity in your community. 🔍 Together, we explore: 💼 About Woodrow Rosenbaum As Chief Data Officer for GivingTuesday, Woodrow has been instrumental in shaping the global generosity movement and has led ground-breaking research and analysis of individual giving behaviors. He leads the GivingTuesday Data Commons, bringing together a coalition of more than 2,000 collaborators coordinated through eight working groups as well as data teams around the world to understand the drivers and impacts of generosity to inspire more giving of all types. Woodrow brings expertise in moving markets and transforming audiences from passive participants to active and vocal ambassadors. Woodrow is also the founder of With Intent Strategies, an international agency specializing in brand reimagination. Woodrow was a member of the Generosity Commission Research Task Force, is a past Co-Chair for Global Impact Canada’s Board of Directors where he now serves as strategic advisor, and was previously a Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School. 🧰 Resources & Links: Growing Giving ReportGivingTuesday Data CommonsTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Why do women give — and what truly inspires them to give more? In this powerful episode of Nonprofit Nation, I’m joined by Jacqueline Ackerman, Director of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.and a leading voice in gender and philanthropy. With a background shaped by early experiences in Haiti and a career grounded in rigorous research, Jacqueline shares why understanding how women give is just as important as how much they give. If you’re not segmenting, stewarding, and storytelling with women in mind, you’re not just missing out on donations — you’re missing the opportunity to build a more inclusive and sustainable culture of philanthropy. 💡 Key Topics: 🔍 About Jacqueline Ackerman Jacqueline Ackerman is Director of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute (WPI) at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. WPI believes that gender matters in philanthropy, and that solving the world’s complex problems requires perspective, leadership and generosity from women and men. Jacqueline’s work centers on moving the institute’s research into action, delivering insights to donors, fundraisers and sector leaders that grow women’s giving and deepen fundraisers’ engagements with female donors. Over the last decade, Jacqueline has led WPI’s research agenda, including serving as primary author on most of WPI’s research reports. Jacqueline joined the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy in 2012 after earning a Master of Public Affairs from the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs in Bloomington. She was raised in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and resides in Bethesda, MD. 🧰 Resources & Links: https://philanthropy.indianapolis.iu.edu/institutes/womens-philanthropy-institute/about/index.htmlhttps://philanthropy.indianapolis.iu.edu/institutes/womens-philanthropy-institute/research/index.htmlhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelineackerman/https://philanthropy.indianapolis.iu.edu/index.htmlTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

This episode was recorded live on LinkedIn. Join me and Rachel at the all-virtual, free Nonprofit Social Media Summit November 18-19! What does it mean to be a changemaker in today’s nonprofit world — and how do we take that spirit onto social media, and even into the halls of government? In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Rachel D’Souza, founder of Gladiator Consulting and a leading voice in community-centric fundraising, joins Nonprofit Nation to talk about changemaking, systems transformation, and her next big leap: a run for public office in Missouri. Rachel is currently a candidate for the Missouri House of Representatives (District 79), bringing her deep experience in nonprofit leadership, racial equity, and social justice to the legislative arena. From organizational healing to fundraising with integrity, Rachel has long been committed to reshaping the sector — and now she’s taking that commitment to the ballot. We also preview Rachel’s upcoming keynote at the 2025 Nonprofit Social Media Summit, where she’ll be sharing tools for navigating power, privilege, and purpose in a digital world. In This Episode: really🧰 Resources & Links: 🔗 Learn more about Rachel and her work at Gladiator Consulting 🎟️ Register for the Nonprofit Social Media Summit 🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷 What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do. That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more! Ready to join them? Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts