Ever felt like you're banging your head against a brick wall trying to break into the nonprofit world or get something new and different accomplished? You're not alone. In this episode, we dive deep into the murky waters of nonprofit gatekeeping. Join us as we chat with Sunny Bray from Catalyst Collective and Wendy Wand from United Way of Blount County. These two powerhouses spill the tea on how these gatekeepers are stifling innovation and holding back the next generation of nonprofit leaders. We'll uncover the secret sauce to avoid becoming a gatekeeper yourself and equip you with the tools to overcome gatekeeping challenges. Get ready to laugh, learn, and take on even the most problematic gatekeeper in your world!

Ever had a volunteer who seemed to have a mind of their own? One who shows up when they want, does what they want, and can be downright unpredictable? Well, you're not alone! Join us as we dive into the world of "feral volunteers" with expert guests Angela Meekins from the Tennessee Nonprofit Network and Natalie Patric from the United Way of Greater Chattanooga. We'll discuss how to tame these wild spirits and turn them into productive, engaged volunteers. From crafting clear job descriptions to setting realistic expectations, we'll share practical tips to help you manage even the most unruly volunteers. And yes, we even talk about the time a volunteer showed up dressed as a creepy clown! Tune in for a hilarious and informative episode that will help you turn your feral volunteers into a force for good.

Ever dreamed of winning the lottery? Well, imagine your nonprofit winning the equivalent! Join us as we delve into the exciting (and sometimes daunting) world of big donations. Our guests, nonprofit fundraising experts Joshua Ireland from Jefferson Bridge Capital and Phil Trammell of Nonprofit Resource Center, share their invaluable insights. They'll guide you through the process of preparing your nonprofit for a major gift, deciding how to best utilize that massive, unexpected donation, and navigating the delicate conversation of a big gift with your board.

In this episode, we dive headfirst into the exciting world of public policy with our dynamic duo of expert guests: Arnetta Macklin from MIFA and Natalie Jones from Tennessee Nonprofit Network. Get ready to trade boring boardroom meetings for some serious policy wonkery! We'll unravel the mystery of how nonprofits can take their advocacy game to the next level by crafting a killer public policy agenda. Arnetta and Natalie spill the 501(c)tea on everything from identifying key issues to gaining support from your board of directors

Are you a nonprofit hero, always going the extra mile, and feeling like you're running on fumes? In this episode, we dive deep into the world of nonprofit burnout with the fabulous Cait Donovan. She discusses how the nonprofit martyr complex can turn a passion project into a full-blown crisis. We'll uncover the sneaky symptoms of burnout, from feeling chronically tired to snapping at your CFO. And don't worry, we've got the antidote! Cait shares her top tips for refilling your cup and avoiding the burnout abyss. So grab your favorite beverage (and maybe a snack), and join us for an insightful conversation about how to thrive, not just survive, in the nonprofit world.

In an era of workforce shortages, nonprofit leaders are rethinking their benefits packages to include more support for employees, such as parental leave. In this episode, Amy Gore of Think Tennessee and Dr. Mary "MJ" McConnell discuss how parental leave creates equitable opportunity for employees and mitigates turnover.

Have you ever made a terrible mistake while writing a grant or said the wrong thing during a meeting with a foundation? Don't worry, you're not alone. In this episode, grant writer Sara Baker and Tiffanie Grier of Assisi Foundation of Memphis share their insights on how to avoid the most common grant writing pitfalls and what to say when foundation trustees ask you that dreaded question about sustainability. Tune in and learn how to write a grant that will impress foundation trustees and win you the funding you need.

Quitting your job can be a tough decision, but it doesn't have to be a messy one. In this episode, Amanda McCollum of Adams Keegan and Forrest Alton of 1000 Feathers discuss how employees can quit their jobs with dignity and how employers can create a smooth transition for outgoing staff. Whether you're an employee thinking about quitting your job or an employer looking for ways to improve your offboarding process, this episode is for you.