Nonprofits Today

Season 1 of Nonprofits Today has been a journey of purpose, resilience, and transformation. In this finale episode, host Sarah Boxx reflects on the biggest lessons from our first 17 episodes and highlights the powerful stories nonprofit leaders shared from across the country and around the world.This episode, “Leading with Purpose, Transforming Through Service,” explores the key themes that emerged throughout the season:Purpose-Driven Leadership – Why “the why” matters more than ever, with insights from Paula Schneider of Susan G. Komen.Transformation Through Challenge – How obstacles become opportunities, featuring Tim Curington of Prison Alliance.Community and Collaboration – Building lasting change through partnerships, with wisdom from Bill Flanagan.Innovation and Courage to Change – Redefining impact in tough times, as Thana Hickman-Simmons of Viola’s House demonstrated.Faith, Values, and Inner Compass – Leadership rooted in deeper alignment, shared by Yolanda Nollie and Natasha Davis of Pure Cinema USA.Lifting Others – Mentorship, equity, and showing up for the next generation, with Alexis Koukous of Danbury Student and Business Connection.Season 1 Takeaway: Purpose grounds us, service transforms us, and courageous leadership ripples across communities and generations.As we close out this season, we thank YOU—our listeners—for your support and commitment to leading and serving with impact. Season 2 will bring even more insight into innovation, equity, and resilience in the nonprofit world.If this season has inspired you, please subscribe, share, and leave a review so more nonprofit leaders can be encouraged and equipped.Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast  𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐇:Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-todayNo Labels No Limits: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/X: @SarahBoxxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒:#NonprofitsToday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #grieftogrowth #purposedriven #legacybuilding #ImpactStory #changemakers  #missiondriven #NonprofitVoices #nonprofitimpact  #LeadingNonprofits #SustainableNonprofits #nonprofitleadership  #GivingBetter #nonprofitsuccess #NonprofitsToday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #StorytellingForImpact #NonProfitHeroes #PodcastForGood #realtalk  

In this powerful episode of Nonprofits Today, we sit down with Robin Berlinsky—educator turned entrepreneur and the visionary founder of The Abundant Nonprofit. With over 30 years of experience and two multi–7-figure nonprofits under her belt, Robin brings a fresh, unapologetically bold take on what it means to lead in today’s nonprofit space.Robin shares how the belief that “nonprofit is an IRS term, not a business model” has fueled her approach to building organizations that prioritize cash flow, customer service, and employee satisfaction—while still staying deeply mission-driven.You’ll hear how culture and energy are the cornerstones of her leadership philosophy, why mindset matters more than scarcity, and how nonprofits can operate with the precision of Fortune 500 companies without losing their heart.We also dive into:Robin’s journey from the classroom to the boardroomFundraising strategies that actually workWhat authentic donor engagement looks likeHow mentors like Cathy Heller, Jen Gottlieb, and Amy Porterfield have influenced her pathThe bold vision behind The Abundant NonprofitWhether you’re just starting your nonprofit journey or looking to breathe new life into your organization, this episode will leave you energized and ready to lead with clarity and purpose.Connect with Robin:Website: https://www.theabundantnonprofit.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robin_berlinsky/#Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/engagingcreativeminds/#Key Quote: "Nonprofit is an IRS term, not a business model."Connect with Sarah Boxx: Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-todayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/Watch on YouTube:  ⁨@NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast⁩  𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒: #nonprofitgrowth #nonprofitleadership #nonprofitfundraising #abundancemindset #donorengagement #nonprofitstrategy #howtogrowanonprofit #nonprofitstoday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #purposedriven #legacybuilding #impactstory #changemakers #missiondriven #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #LeadingNonprofits #sustainablenonprofits #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #nonprofitstoday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #storytellingforimpact #nonprofitheroes #podcastforgood #realtalk

What if the fear, doubt, and imposter syndrome you feel… are signs that you're exactly where you should be?In this episode of Nonprofits Today, we’re joined by Scott Stirrett—founder of Venture for Canada and author of the acclaimed book The Uncertainty Advantage. At just 16, Scott gave a speech at the United Nations. By his early 20s, he had raised millions to launch a national nonprofit supporting young Canadians—and faced more unknowns than most leaders twice his age.Scott shares how learning to thrive in uncertainty became his biggest advantage as a founder, CEO, and global speaker. We unpack the uncomfortable truth behind growth, why imposter syndrome may mean you're on the right track, and how to build resilience in a rapidly shifting world.Topics include:Why “not feeling ready” is often a good signReframing imposter syndrome into leadership fuelHard-won lessons from launching a national nonprofit in his 20sThe importance of mindset in entrepreneurship and youth developmentInsights from The Uncertainty Advantage and how it applies to emerging leadersThis is an empowering conversation for anyone who feels unsure about their next move—but knows they’re meant for more.Scott’s Book: The Uncertainty Advantage → https://shorturl.at/bDjPvNewsletter: https://substack.com/@scottstirrettConnect with ScottWebsite: scottstirrett.comEmail: scott@scottstirrett.comTikTok: @scottstirrettInstagram: @scottstirrettLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/scottstirrettTwitter/X: @scottstirrettConnect with Sarah Boxx: Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-todayFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/X: @SarahBoxxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitsPodcast 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒: #nonprofitgrowth #nonprofitleadership #nonprofitfundraising #abundancemindset #donorengagement #nonprofitstrategy #howtogrowanonprofit #nonprofitstoday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #purposedriven #legacybuilding #impactstory #changemakers #missiondriven #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #LeadingNonprofits #sustainablenonprofits #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #nonprofitstoday

In this insightful episode of Nonprofits Today, we’re joined by Deb Porter, founder of HOLD Business Solutions (Hearing Out Life’s Drama. No's on Life) and a champion of active listening as the foundation of all strong relationships—personal or professional.Deb’s journey started with a Master’s degree in Care & Counseling and personal experiences as a caregiver and divorcee, ultimately leading her to create a practice that helps people be heard in a world that rarely listens. Her approach transforms workplace culture, leadership, and family dynamics alike.We discuss:The CORE Framework for listening (Calm, Outcome, Relate, Empathy)Why only 2% of people are ever formally trained in listeningThe biggest communication pitfalls (like jumping in to “fix” things)How listening skills can build trust and reduce stress in nonprofitsHer special “party trick” of guessing Myers-Briggs profiles in minutes!Deb’s Key Message:"We're taught in the American education system how to speak, but we are not taught how to listen until master's level."Connect with Deb Porter & HOLD:Website: www.hearingoutlifedrama.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deblhporterFacebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/hearingoutlifedramaFacebook (Business): https://www.facebook.com/HOLDBusinessSolutionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hearingoutlifedramaTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hearingoutlifedramaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HOLDListensPinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.kr/holdlistenerFree Resource: “Freight Train Brain” guide to calm & clarity → Get it here: https://www.hearingoutlifedrama.com/FreightTrainBrainConnect with Sarah Boxx:Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FSarahBoxxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/Enjoyed this episode? Show your support:LIKE this video to help others discover the power of listeningSUBSCRIBE for more actionable insights for nonprofit leaders#leadershippodcast #NonprofitVoices #nonprofitimpact #LeadingNonprofits #SustainableNonprofits #nonprofitleadership 

Ever wonder what it takes to spark real innovation, navigate billion-dollar ideas, and keep your sanity in the process? Join us for this episode of No Labels, No Limits with Terry Rich—entrepreneur, former CEO of the Iowa Lottery, and global keynote speaker.Terry has done it all: turned a struggling nonprofit zoo into the 2nd largest state attraction, gave away over $1 billion, and even sat on the panel of The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson! In this episode, Terry shares how to balance the drive for success (which he says can feel like “cocaine”) with the importance of enjoying the journey and staying true to your values.We dive into topics like how to brainstorm without judgment, why failure is the first step to success, and how to lead with integrity and humor in uncertain times.Key Takeaways:The “COT” (Consider or Throw Away) method for driving innovationHow to find the balance between ambition and well-beingReal-world lessons from turning around nonprofits & growing revenueFraud prevention tips for leaders and nonprofit teamsWhy happiness happens on the way to successConnect with Terry Rich:Website: https://terryspeaks.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terich/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TerrySpeaksKeynoteTwitter: https://x.com/terryspeaksusConnect with Sarah Boxx:Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FSarahBoxxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/Love this episode? Show your support:LIKE this video to help more leaders discover itSUBSCRIBE for more insights on innovation and growthCOMMENT below: What’s one innovative idea you’re working on right now?SHARE this with someone who needs inspiration today𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒: #ConsiderOrThrowAway #leadershipinsights #CreativeBrainstorming #MissionDrivenInnovation #authenticleadership #FraudPreventionTips #nonprofitgrowth #disruptivethinking #TerryRich #innovationleadership #NonprofitInnovation #entrepreneurmindset #BillionDollarIdeas #COTMethod #SuccessBalance #nonprofitimpact #podcast #personalgrowth #nonprofitleadership #personaldevelopment #successmindset #changemakers #nonprofitleadership #CorporateCreativity #NonprofitLeadershipandGrowth #nonprofitstoday

In this episode of Nonprofits Today, we welcome Tom Ulbrich, CEO of Goodwill of Western New York, entrepreneur, educator, and member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council. With a background rooted in both business and nonprofit leadership, Tom brings a unique lens to innovation and sustainability in the social sector.Tom takes us behind the scenes of a powerful post-COVID organizational turnaround—where Goodwill WNY rebounded stronger than ever by merging for-profit best practices with a nonprofit mission. From strategic planning and change management to leadership lessons and entrepreneurial culture, this conversation is packed with practical insights for any leader navigating uncertainty.You’ll hear about:How Tom guided a values-driven transformation at Goodwill WNYThe frameworks used to lead change and build resilienceThe value of mentorship and his work with Colonel Sudip MukerjeeWhat he’s currently reading—and why learning never stopsWhether you're scaling a nonprofit or reimagining leadership in a time of change, Tom’s wisdom will both challenge and inspire.Quote from Tom:"Never stop learning."Connect with Tom:Website: https://www.goodwillwny.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasulbrich/𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐇:Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Podcast Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-todayPodcast No Labels No Limits: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strategicvisioncoach/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahboxxllc/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐊𝐄𝐘𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐒:#TomUlbrich #goodwillthriftstore #nonprofitleadership #socialenterprise #nonprofitstrategy #entrepreneurship #COVIDnonprofitrecovery #leadershippodcast #nonprofitstoday #ForbesNonprofitCouncil #turnaroundstory #changemanagement #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #purposedriven #legacybuilding #impactstory #changemakers #missiondriven #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #leadingnonprofits #sustainablenonprofits #nonprofitleadership #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #NonprofitsToday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #StorytellingForImpact #NonProfitHeroes #PodcastForGood #realtalk #socialinnovation #GoodwillWNY #entrepreneurialleadership #strategicplanning #MissionDriven #TomUlbrich #NonprofitsToday #LeadershipMatters #PostCovidRecovery #ForbesNonprofitCouncil #PodcastInterview #NonprofitPodcast #LeadWithPurpose

Today on Nonprofits Today, we’re joined by Paula Schneider, President and CEO of Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest breast cancer organization. From once working alongside Kanye West in the fashion world to now leading a mission to end breast cancer forever, Paula’s story is a powerful example of what it means to lead with purpose and heart.A breast cancer survivor who also lost her mother to the disease, Paula brings unmatched clarity, compassion, and corporate strategy to the nonprofit sector. In this episode, she opens up about:Her unexpected leap from fashion CEO to nonprofit changemakerHow surviving cancer reshaped her leadershipThe bold transformation she’s led at Komen—structurally, culturally, and technologicallyWhy imposter syndrome is a myth, and what really drives confident leadershipHer upcoming children’s book, Love Stays Strong, and how personal healing fuels public missionPaula’s mantra is simple: “Life is not only about what you accomplish, but what you help others achieve along the way.” This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and legacy leadership.Listen in to hear:✔ Jetsons-level innovation in a Flintstones healthcare system✔ What it means to “shut it down”—not in failure, but in victory✔ Her advice for nonprofit leaders scaling mission-driven impact✔ And why you only need to be smart enough to lead the bandConnect with Paula & Susan G. Komen:Website: https://www.komen.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGKomenX: https://x.com/SusanGKomenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/susangkomen/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/susangkomen/mycompany/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/komenforthecure Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/770842/love-stays-strong-by-paula-schneider-illustrated-by-nicole-wong/Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐒𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐇:Website: https://sarahboxx.com/Nonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-todayNo Labels No Limits: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/X: @SarahBoxxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahboxxsherpa/

In this episode, we’re joined by Tim Curington, Executive Director of Prison Alliance—a ministry that’s helping thousands of incarcerated men and women find purpose, hope, and healing through faith.Tim’s story is one of quiet leadership, deep conviction, and bold growth. He stepped into his role in 2023 during a leadership transition and helped scale the organization’s impact—from Bible-based study programs in all 50 states to expanding into 20+ countries, with new digital tools that reach inmates where they are—often on tablets in their prison cells.You’ll hear how:A letter-based Bible study program turns into real-life transformationOne of the most infamous criminals in U.S. history, David Berkowitz (“Son of Sam”), became part of the redemptive stories Tim’s team sharesA small nonprofit grew its budget from $800K to over $2M by staying focused on mission, mentorship, and building trustLessons from The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team are helping reshape how his staff communicates and works togetherWhether you're a nonprofit leader, someone curious about faith-based outreach, or just need a reminder that people can change, this conversation will move you.“God’s grace is greater than the vilest act of any sinner.” - That’s a quote Tim lives by—and you’ll understand why after hearing this episode.Want to connect with Tim or learn more?Website: https://www.prisonalliance.orgInstagram: @prison_alliance Facebook: PrisonAllianceInternational Twitter/X: @prison_alliance LinkedIn: Prison Alliance Cross-Promo: Also, check out our flagship podcast, No Labels No Limits, where we dig even deeper into purpose-driven leadership and personal transformation.Listen here: http://www.nolabelsnolimitspodcast.com/Watch on YouTube: @NoLabelsNoLimitspodcast Don’t forget to follow/subscribe!Stay connected with host Sarah Boxx for more conversations that uplift, challenge, and inspire leaders doing the hard work of social good.Website: Sarah BoxxNonprofits Today: https://shows.acast.com/nonprofits-today#nonprofitstoday #podcastinterview #leadershippodcast #womenwholead #purposedriven #legacybuilding #impactstory #changemakers #missiondriven #nonprofitvoices #nonprofitimpact #leadingnonprofits #sustainablenonprofits #nonprofitleadership #givingbetter #nonprofitsuccess #nonprofitstoday #communitymatters #podcastlaunch #nonprofitsupport #storytellingforimpact #nonprofitheroes #podcastforgood #realtalk #PrisonAlliance #TimCarrington #FaithBehindBars #redemptionstories #sonofsam #christianministry #discipleship #InmateBibleStudy #nonprofitleadership #transformlives #ministrymatters #inmates #inmatelife