A weekly podcast interviewing everyday superheroes and the services and technologies they provide to nonprofits. The goal is to inform nonprofit organizations about ideas, services, and products that can help.
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Alexander Lapa Podcasts
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How Gen Z is Shaping the Future of Nonprofits with Marika Luneau
48:26
48:26
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48:26In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with guest Marika Luneau to explore how Generation Z is transforming the nonprofit landscape. The conversation dives into the ways nonprofits can adapt to attract and retain young talent, why giving Gen Z voices a seat in leadership matters, and how personal branding and authenticity will play a de…
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Neurodiversity and Leadership in Nonprofits with Joanna Lund-Pops
40:20
40:20
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40:20In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Joanna Lund-Pops to explore her inspiring journey from volunteer educator to advocate and coach in the nonprofit sector. Together, they unpack how organizations can move beyond stereotypes, embrace inclusivity, and make neurodiversity a core part of their practices. Topics We Cover: The joy of…
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Financial Clarity for Mission Impact with Courtney De Ronde
41:34
41:34
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41:34In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Courtney De Ronde, co-founder of Forge, to explore the critical role of financial clarity in nonprofit success. She breaks down the three key financial functions every nonprofit needs, explains how restricted funds can create confusion, and offers practical advice for organizations looking to …
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Retaining Donors and Thriving in the Year-End Rush with Jena Lynch
43:58
43:58
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43:58In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, host Alexander Lapa welcomes Jena Lynch from Donorbox to share her insights on how nonprofits can prepare for the busiest fundraising season of the year. From leveraging AI thoughtfully, to building month-by-month strategies, to communicating in ways that truly resonate, this episode is packed with actionable…
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Building Mental Fitness as a Nonprofit Leader with Dacia Moore
46:33
46:33
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46:33In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with leadership and mental health advocate Dacia Moore about why mental wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s a leadership essential. From “push-ups for your brain” to the power of margin time, this conversation blends personal stories, practical frameworks, and a call for leaders to model healthy habits for t…
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Be Picky, Be Expensive, Be Brilliant with Shannon Bowen
43:46
43:46
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43:46In this empowering episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I chat with Shannon Bowen, a former nonprofit executive turned career and leadership coach. From navigating career pivots to confidently negotiating job offers, Shannon reveals how nonprofit workers can build fulfilling, sustainable careers by embracing her bold mantra: Be picky, be expensive, be b…
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Rethinking Sponsorships for Nonprofit Growth with Mariah Monique
44:31
44:31
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44:31In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Mariah Monique, founder of Sponsorship Catalyst, to discuss how nonprofits can elevate corporate sponsorships from transactional support to mission-aligned, long-term partnerships. From choosing the right sponsors to knowing when to walk away, this conversation is packed with practical advice on div…
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How Nonprofits Can Win with Corporate Partners with Scott Minger
35:55
35:55
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35:55In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Scott Minger, Chief Development Officer at Vitamin Angels, to explore how strategic corporate partnerships have fueled the organization's exponential growth—from serving 25 million to 74 million women and children worldwide. For nonprofits looking to deepen their impact through corporate suppo…
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Psychology, Personalization, and the Future of the Web with Matthew Stafford
34:28
34:28
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34:28In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with digital strategist Matthew Stafford to explore how the online landscape is rapidly evolving—and what that means for nonprofits. If you’re relying on a DIY website or wondering why your traffic isn’t converting, this conversation is for you. Topics We Cover: Why beautiful websites often fail—an…
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Community-Financed Nonprofit Spaces with Tonya Surman
49:40
49:40
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49:40In this inspiring episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Tonya Surman, CEO and co-founder of the Centre for Social Innovation (CSI), to explore her decades-long mission to redesign how nonprofits operate, collaborate, and finance their futures. As the conversation unfolds, Tonya challenges traditional ideas around ownership, scale, and cap…
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Rethinking Sabbaticals in Nonprofits with Naomi Hattaway
43:19
43:19
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43:19In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Naomi Hattaway about the underestimated power of sabbaticals in the nonprofit world. Drawing from her personal journey and professional expertise, Naomi reframes sabbaticals as essential leadership and organizational tools—not luxuries. Together, they explore how intentional breaks can reduce bur…
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Using Data to Build Donor Relationships That Last with Gregory Warner
46:33
46:33
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46:33In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Gregory Warner, founder of MarketSmart and creator of the Fundraising Report Card, for a deep dive into data-driven donor engagement. Whether you’re wrestling with donor retention or chasing ROI, this conversation offers a powerful blend of insight and strategy that reframes fundraising as a journey…
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Creating Space for Authenticity and Allyship with Frank Velásquez Jr.
41:24
41:24
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41:24In this powerful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Frank Velásquez Jr., founder of 4 Da Hood and the Ascending Leaders in Color program. Together, we discuss the need for identity-affirming spaces, how to involve white allies in meaningful ways, and why perfectionism and professionalism can be tools of exclusion. With vulnerability and i…
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How to Win Grants with Storytelling and Strategy with DeaRonda Harrison
33:20
33:20
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33:20In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I interview experienced grant writer DeaRonda Harrison about the evolving landscape of grant writing. From her early volunteer days to running a professional grant writing practice, DeaRonda shares insights on how nonprofits can stand out in an increasingly competitive funding world. She breaks down the key e…
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Turning Social Media into a Fundraising Engine for Nonprofits with Brynne Krispin
44:16
44:16
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44:16In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Brynne Krispin, social media strategist and founder of Cause Fokus, to explore how nonprofits can strategically harness the power of social media. Whether you're managing a large team or running solo, this episode offers practical tools to help your organization build a thriving, mission-align…
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Protecting Voices and Building Trust in Nonprofit Narratives with Diana Farias Heinrich
44:40
44:40
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44:40In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Diana Farias Heinrich to explore her inspiring transition from corporate project management to ethical storytelling in the nonprofit world. We discuss how nonprofits can elevate their storytelling by prioritizing consent, collaboration, and care to protect the dignity and safety of those whose…
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Building Sustainable Nonprofits Through Human Connection with David Corke
36:15
36:15
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36:15In this heartfelt episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome David Corke, a seasoned nonprofit leader whose career journey began in hospitality and evolved into a decades-long commitment to community service. From structuring meaningful relationships to navigating sector-wide funding challenges, David offers a deeply personal and practical look at h…
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Grant Writing, AI, and the Art of Fundraising with Francesca Frederick
42:10
42:10
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42:10In this inspiring episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Francesca Frederick to explore her unique path from aspiring dancer to nonprofit fundraiser—and now, tech startup CEO. Francesca opens up about how her early arts background led her to fall in love with the purpose-driven world of fundraising. From exploring different sectors to co-f…
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Using Cameras to Create Global Impact with Amina Mohamed
44:25
44:25
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44:25In this inspiring episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Amina Mohamed, founder of Cameras For Girls, about her transformative work empowering women in East Africa through photography and ethical storytelling. Drawing from her personal journey as a Ugandan refugee turned filmmaker, Amina shares how a single trip back to Uganda led to a grassr…
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Ethical Grant Writing & the Future of Nonprofit Funding with Rohit Mehta
39:06
39:06
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39:06In this insightful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Rohit Mehta, founder of Do Good Funding, to discuss the challenges nonprofits face in today’s funding landscape. Rohit exposes the flaws of commission-based grant writing, explains how his team brings transparency and long-term strategy to the process, and offers expert advice on navigati…
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Nonprofits and Human-Centered Tech with Elena Yunusov
39:42
39:42
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39:42In this thought-provoking episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Elena Yunusov, founder of the Human Feedback Foundation and former AI advocate at RBC’s Borealis AI lab. Together, we explore the crucial role nonprofits can play in steering artificial intelligence toward ethical, responsible, and human-centered outcomes. Topics We Cover: Wh…
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Building Donor Relationships One Call at a Time with Kel Haney
43:09
43:09
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43:09In this heartfelt and tactical episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Kel Haney, a fundraising coach who champions the old-school power of the phone call. She breaks down why personal calls still work, even in the age of declining answer rates, and how nonprofits can use warm outreach to foster lasting donor relationships. From crafting compe…
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How Donor-Advised Funds Empower Everyday Generosity with Tammy Kyte
29:50
29:50
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29:50In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Tammy Kyte of GiveWise, a digital platform that’s reshaping how Canadians approach charitable giving through donor-advised funds (DAFs). From stock donations to crypto, GiveWise is making generosity more flexible, accessible, and joyful—for both donors and the charities they support. Topics We Co…
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Care Work Deserves Care: Redefining Wellness in the Nonprofit Sector with Loretta Turner
42:13
42:13
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42:13In this powerful and compassionate episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Loretta Turner, a wellness educator and nonprofit advocate, to explore how nonprofit organizations can create sustainable, people-centered work cultures. Together, we dive into the roots of burnout, the importance of embedding care into organizational strategy, and h…
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Using Authentic Content to Amplify Impact with Daniel Francavilla
44:30
44:30
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44:30In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by Daniel Francavilla to explore the intersection of marketing, storytelling, and nonprofit success. We discuss the critical role of strategic messaging, thought leadership, and authentic storytelling in helping organizations connect with their audience and drive real change. Topics We Cover: How a…
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Using Athletics to Give Kids a Fair Shot at Success with Khalid Cannon
41:22
41:22
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41:22In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Khalid Cannon to discuss how sports and community mentorship can help children of incarcerated parents break free from societal stigma. Through long-term mentorship, structured funding, and a business-minded approach, the organization ensures kids have the opportunity to thrive beyond their ci…
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The Future of Nonprofit Training with Carmen Reis
41:54
41:54
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41:54In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Carmen Reis to explore the critical role of training in nonprofit success. The conversation also delves into AI’s growing influence in nonprofit education and the long-term benefits of investing in professional development. Topics We Cover: Why specialized training is essential for nonprofit p…
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Community-Centric Fundraising: A New Era for Nonprofits with Maria Rio
29:59
29:59
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29:59In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we welcome Maria Rio to explore Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF)—a fresh, equity-driven approach to fundraising that prioritizes the needs of the community over individual donors. Maria breaks down the ten principles of CCF, compares it to traditional donor-centric models, and shares actionable insights fo…
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Mental Health and Mentorship in the MENASA Community with Nagi Alsubai
39:10
39:10
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39:10In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, host Alexander Lapa speaks with Nagi Alsubai, founder of Peer Minds, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting mental health in the Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian (MENASA) communities. Nagi shares his personal journey, from struggling with mental health stigma to creating a peer mentorship program t…
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The Real Path to Sustainable Fundraising with Leigh Sandison
42:54
42:54
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42:54How can nonprofits build stronger, long-term donor relationships? In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Leigh Sandison, founder of Real Path, to discuss the importance of modernizing donor engagement strategies. Leigh shares insights from her journey in both corporate and nonprofit sectors, highlighting the gaps she noticed in fun…
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Why Staff Are Leaving & How to Fix It with Cindy Wagman
47:55
47:55
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47:55The nonprofit sector is facing a major HR crisis, with high turnover rates and a shortage of experienced professionals. In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit I speak with Cindy Wagman about the root causes of these challenges and explores innovative solutions like fractional fundraising. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, consultant, or industry p…
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How Maverick Leadership Drives Nonprofit Innovation with Sharon Lee
48:18
48:18
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48:18In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by Sharon Lee, a nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience. With the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, Sharon challenges outdated industry practices and embraces innovative strategies to increase engagement and funding. Topics We Cover: How Sharon’s unexpected career shift led her to …
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Smarter Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofits with Jessie Katz
38:11
38:11
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38:11In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with fundraising expert Jessie Katz to uncover the secrets of quick wins in nonprofit fundraising. From high-ROI fundraising events to long-term donor engagement tactics, this conversation is packed with actionable insights that can transform any nonprofit’s fundraising approach. Topics We Cover: J…
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How Emotional Intelligence Shapes Leadership with Jennifer Gardner
41:51
41:51
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41:51In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Jennifer Gardner, a former trial lawyer turned leadership coach, to discuss the vital role of emotional intelligence, empathy, and storytelling in effective leadership. Jennifer shares her journey from the courtroom to coaching, revealing how neuroscience and persuasion techniques can help non…
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Expert Email Marketing Tips for Nonprofits with Katelyn Baughan
38:29
38:29
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38:29In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Katelyn Baughan, founder of KB Digital, to explore the untapped potential of email marketing for nonprofits. Katelyn shares her journey from the tech world to nonprofit marketing and dives deep into strategies that drive engagement, retain donors, and boost fundraising success. Topics We Cover: Kate…
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Mentorship, Recovery, and Empowerment with Ken Miller
50:13
50:13
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50:13In this powerful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Ken Miller, whose life journey is nothing short of transformative. After overcoming a tumultuous childhood, addiction, and time in prison, Ken turned his life around to become a mentor and advocate for young Black men facing similar challenges. Ken’s story highlights the importance of se…
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Redefining Parental Leave in Nonprofits with Lacey Kempinski
35:36
35:36
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35:36In this insightful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by Lacey Kempinski, a former fundraiser turned entrepreneur, to explore the evolving concept of work-life balance in the nonprofit sector. Lacey shares her personal journey of navigating motherhood while maintaining her career and the founding of Balanced Good, a company that supports no…
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AI Through the Eyes of an 11-Year-Old: Ruby’s Insightful Take on the Future of Work and Play
29:09
29:09
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29:09In this special New Year episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I'm joined by my niece Ruby for a refreshingly candid conversation about artificial intelligence, technology’s impact on jobs, and the possibilities of a utopian future. Ruby, a bright and curious sixth-grader, shares her concerns about robots replacing humans in the workforce and discusses h…
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Crafting Government Relations Strategies for Nonprofit Impact with Puneet Luthra
50:21
50:21
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50:21In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Puneet Luthra, a government relations expert with a deep commitment to the nonprofit sector. Puneet discusses the critical role these relationships play in influencing policy, securing funding, and driving change on social issues. Drawing from his wealth of experience, Puneet provides practical a…
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A Mindset for Wellness and Impact with Jarrett Ransom
47:44
47:44
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47:44In this insightful episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Jarrett Ransom, affectionately known as "The Nonprofit Nerd," to discuss her passion for nonprofit work, her unique journey, and her philosophy on fostering wellness and abundance within the sector. Together, we explore the importance of moving away from scarcity-driven mindsets, em…
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Donor-Centric Messaging That Works with Caroline Griffin
36:30
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36:30In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I chat with Caroline Griffin about the transformative power of donor-centric messaging. Caroline shares her unique journey from aspiring Broadway performer to nonprofit professional, weaving together her passion for communication and storytelling. This conversation offers actionable tips for strengthening don…
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How Three Students Created a Lifeline for Ukrainian Refugees with Emma Cotner
23:32
23:32
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23:32In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we welcome Emma Cotner, co-founder of Learn and Earn, an inspiring initiative providing essential online education resources to Ukrainian refugee students affected by the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Emma discusses the program’s unique approach to supporting students aged 9-16 with critical resources like Chromeb…
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Exploring AI’s Role in the Future of Giving with Ben Freda
51:32
51:32
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51:32In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Ben Freda, a former corporate lawyer turned nonprofit leader, to discuss his transformative journey into mission-driven work. We dive into the potential of AI in nonprofits, the ethical implications of advanced AI, and the steps organizations can take to harness technology for meaningful impac…
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Transforming Nonprofit Marketing from Bland to Bold with Christina Edwards
39:49
39:49
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39:49In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I dive into an insightful conversation with Christina Edwards, a seasoned consultant specializing in nonprofit marketing and fundraising. Christina challenges nonprofits to embrace agility, risk-taking, and genuine connection to better reach and resonate with today's audiences. Topics We Cover: Christina’s jo…
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Measuring and Communicating Real Impact with Sheri Chaney Jones
35:50
35:50
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35:50In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Sheri Chaney Jones, a leader in impact measurement for nonprofits, to discuss how data-driven strategies can strengthen nonprofit credibility, improve program effectiveness, and increase funding opportunities. Sheri shares her "renaissance of relevance" framework, highlighting why nonprofits m…
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Building Safe Spaces, Mentorship, and a Legacy of Support with Aisha Addo
42:50
42:50
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42:50In this inspiring episode of Agents of Nonprofit, Alexander Lapa sits down with Aisha Addo, the visionary founder of Power to Girls, a nonprofit organization providing safe spaces and holistic support for Black and marginalized girls in Canada and Ghana. Aisha shares her personal journey, from overcoming societal expectations to establishing an org…
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Building Sustainable Nonprofit Workplaces with Candice Elliott
45:43
45:43
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45:43In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Candice Elliott, an expert in nonprofit employee wellness, to explore how organizations can better support their teams’ mental well-being. Candice shares insights on how nonprofits can enhance social infrastructure, offer meaningful non-monetary compensation, and adapt to evolving workplace dynamics…
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Securing Your Role: Why Nonprofit Leaders Need Employment Contracts with Sean Kosofsky
29:29
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29:29In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we're with Sean Kosofsky, an activist and nonprofit expert, to discuss the vital role employment contracts play in protecting nonprofit executives, especially Executive Directors. With practical advice on navigating contract negotiations, Sean highlights the importance of ensuring job security, avoiding board…
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Buillding Community-Driven Change Through Literacy with Camesha Cox
43:53
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43:53In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with Camesha Cox, the founder of The Reading Partnership, a nonprofit transforming the literacy landscape for marginalized families in Canada. Camesha shares her journey from working in the UK to establishing The Reading Partnership in Toronto, emphasizing the power of community-driven solutions in ta…
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Grant Writing and Nonprofit Strategy Services with Holly Rustick
48:23
48:23
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48:23In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Holly Rustick, an expert in grant writing, to uncover her incredible journey from accidental grant writer to industry leader. Holly shares her inspiring origin story, which began in the aftermath of the 2004 Asian tsunami, and reveals how she turned a career born from necessity into a thriving…
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