In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Heather Nelson, founder of Bridge Raise, to explore how small nonprofits can build successful corporate partnerships. They discuss common challenges, the importance of aligning values, and how nonprofits can confidently approach corporate funders, even small organizations. This episode provides essential strategies for nonprofits wanting to build meaningful corporate connections.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Rhea Wong, a major gift fundraising expert and former nonprofit Executive Director, about building trust with major donors, consent-based fundraising, and the shifting philanthropic landscape. Rhea shares her experience navigating donor relationships, building trust, and tips for creating a successful major gifts program. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria Bryan shares her best tips for trauma-informed storytelling. She explains the importance of being sensitive to both the storyteller and the audience, emphasizing ethical practices. Both Maria’s share practical tips for conducting interviews with grace and care, as well as strategies for emotional self-care and processing difficult stories. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Sarah Ali, a digital-first fundraiser and founder of SA Digital, about Muslim philanthropy, digital mobilization, and how nonprofits can engage diverse communities through culturally competent fundraising strategies. Sarah shares her expertise on leveraging digital tools like WhatsApp and her insights on the growing role of Muslim giving in the nonprofit space. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria talks with Kamilah Martin, founder and CEO of Katalyst, about nonprofits adapting to the future of work. They discuss evolving work models, remote and hybrid setups, and innovative leadership strategies. Kamilah shares her journey from nonprofit executive to consultant and offers insights on piloting new initiatives, shared leadership, and overcoming resistance to change. Tune in for practical tips on how nonprofits can embrace the future of work. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Nina Horvath, Executive Director of the Coastal Jazz and Blues Society. Nina shares her insights into the fractional fundraising model, the benefits it has brought to her organization, and the challenges faced in arts fundraising. Together, they explore how fractional fundraising offers smaller nonprofits access to high-level fundraising expertise without the challenges of hiring a full-time development director. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Quilen Blackwell, President and co-founder of Chicago Eco House and Southside Blooms. Quilen shares his remarkable journey of founding and growing a nonprofit with a thriving $2 million social enterprise. With a focus on sustainability, community development, and economic resilience, Quilen offers invaluable tips for nonprofits looking to scale effectively.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria speaks with Kathryn LeBlanc, a communications consultant specializing in social impact. Kathryn shares valuable insights on the importance of clear, concise messaging for nonprofits, and how to effectively communicate your organization’s mission.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria interviews Carmen Randolph, the CEO and President of the Women’s Foundation of the South (WFS). Carmen shares her insights into the unique challenges faced by nonprofits in the Southern United States, especially those led by and serving women and girls of color. The conversation covers the historical and systemic issues affecting philanthropy in the South, the growing legal challenges against organizations that prioritize marginalized communities, and the importance of trust-based philanthropy. 

Carmen emphasizes the need for Southern nonprofits to diversify their funding sources, engage in proactive donor education, and prepare for potential legal challenges in the wake of recent shifts in U.S. policy and law. 

In this episode ofThe Small Nonprofit, Maria welcomes Juliana Sprott, Chief Giving Officer of the Sprott Foundation. Juliana shares her journey from sports broadcasting to leading a major family foundation in Canada.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria sits down with Roz Zavras, founder of the Center for Community Collaboration (C3) and CEO of Aropa Consulting. Roz shares her unique approach to supporting community-based nonprofits, particularly those led by people of colour or individuals with lived experience.

Through C3, Roz is finding innovative ways to foster collaboration, provide essential services, and break down the silos that often hinder nonprofits from achieving their full potential. She talks about collaborative fundraising events and sharing HR or bookkeeping services.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria welcomes Vu Le, a prominent voice in the nonprofit sector and the writer behind the influential blog Nonprofit AF. Known for his humor and sharp insights, Vu discusses his journey from “aspiring to be a doctor” to becoming a leader in community-centric fundraising and nonprofit advocacy.

He shares his thoughts on the systemic issues within traditional fundraising practices, the importance of ethical storytelling, and the need for nonprofits to engage in advocacy for systemic change. Vu's unique perspective and unwavering commitment to equity and justice provide invaluable lessons for anyone involved in the nonprofit sector.

How can we shift power dynamics in philanthropy and create more equitable partnerships between funders and nonprofits?

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, I chat with Megan Lorius, the Managing Director at the Sprott Foundation, a Toronto-based foundation that grants funds to organizations seeking to solve hunger and homelessness.

We dive into the principles of trust-based philanthropy and how the Sprott Foundation, as a funder, applies them to build strong, equitable relationships with grantees. Megan shares valuable insights and advice for both funders and fundraisers on how to create a more collaborative and impactful philanthropic landscape.

How can we create a more equitable and just nonprofit sector?

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, we chat with Chris Talbot-Heindl, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the nonprofit world. Chris shares their personal experiences and insights on the challenges and opportunities facing nonprofits today, particularly in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (JEDI).

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, I chat with Rickesh Lakhani, founder of Radiance Advisory, about the importance of aligning actions with values in the nonprofit sector. We delve into the challenges of upholding stated values, especially during leadership transitions, and the significance of creating a culture of trust and truth within organizations.

Rickesh shares insights on how to identify and bridge the gap between an organization's stated values and its actual practices, emphasizing the importance of feedback, vulnerability, and accountability.

Do you find it challenging to connect with your donors on a deeper level and turn one-time gifts into lasting relationships? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, we dive into the world of donor community building with Owen O'Doherty, the CEO of DonorSee. Owen shares his insights on how to leverage beneficiary-driven storytelling, technology, and authentic engagement to create a thriving community of donors who are passionate about your cause.

Have you ever thought about merging your nonprofit with another organization? Or maybe transferring a program to another nonprofit? If you're like me, you might be thinking, "That sounds complicated and risky!" But what if strategic collaboration could be the key to unlocking your nonprofit's full potential?

In this episode, I chat with Michelle Shumate, a professor at Northwestern University and a consultant at Social Impact Network Consulting, . Michelle shares her fascinating research on what sets successful collaborations apart. We dive into real-life examples of small nonprofits achieving incredible results through mergers, asset transfers, and innovative partnerships. Michelle also breaks down the steps you can take to explore collaboration opportunities for your own organization. If you're ready to discover how strategic collaboration can lead to growth, innovation, and greater impact, this episode is a must-listen!

Are your nonprofit's efforts to build community feeling a bit... flat? Are you struggling to connect with your service users and donors in a meaningful way? On this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Ashley Alaniz-Moyer, Executive Director of the Hispanic Scholarship Consortium and co-founder of Refuerzo Collaborative, shares her insights on refreshing your approach to community engagement.

Discover how to move beyond transactional interactions, infuse fun and creativity into your events, and build lasting relationships with your board, volunteers, and supporters. We'll delve into practical strategies, like multi-step events and the power of stickers (yes, stickers!), to create a sense of belonging and excitement around your cause.

Ashley has over 15 years of experience working in nonprofits with roles focused in operations, fundraising, marketing, communications, and events. Ashley believes in combining communication and collaboration for maximum impact. She has successfully planned major events that have launched regional education movements. She has led organizations through rebranding efforts and strategic planning processes. Her passion for community building shines through as she shares stories and examples of successful engagement strategies. She'll inspire you to reimagine your events, deepen your connection with your community, and ultimately achieve greater impact for your mission.

Do you ever feel like your passion for nonprofit work has wilted? Are you constantly exhausted, overwhelmed, and struggling to find the motivation to keep going?

You're not alone. In this episode, Kishshana Palmer and I dive into the pervasive issue of burnout in the nonprofit sector. We explore its causes, its impact on our work and well-being, and most importantly, practical strategies to reclaim your energy, passion, and joy.

Kishshana, an expert in leadership and organizational development, shares her insights on self-care, setting boundaries, and finding your "sit in the sun" moments. We discuss the importance of prioritizing rest, nutrition, exercise, and reconnecting with activities that bring you joy. This episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit leader who wants to break free from the cycle of burnout and create a more sustainable, fulfilling career.

Curious about balancing experience and fresh ideas on your nonprofit board? Seeking ways to keep fundraising events engaging in the digital age? Join a candid conversation with a mother-daughter duo as they share their diverse experiences and perspectives on board service, fundraising, and community engagement.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio sits down with Suzy Wilcox, Director of Development at Evergreen, and her mother, Martha Schwieters, an active donor and experienced board member. They delve into the generational divide in board service, the importance of community-centered fundraising, and the evolving landscape of philanthropic events. Suzy and Martha also share personal anecdotes and insights from their unique journeys in the nonprofit sector.