Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed

Hosted by Jarrett Ransom

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed LinkedIn Facebook Instagram YouTube

Episodes

107

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

The conversational-style podcast focuses on interviews and discussions with nonprofit thought leaders for all levels of nonprofit engagement and interests. Our shows are relevant for everyone from Board Members and CEOs to program and fundraising staff. Join us for candid, actionable conversations with nonprofit change makers who aren’t just surviving but thriving. We’ll explore real-world strategies for effective governance, leadership transitions, and long-term sustainability. If you’re a nonprofit leader looking for fresh ideas, honest discussions, and practical solutions, Nonprofit Nerd: Impact Unleashed is your go-to podcast. Let’s lead with resilience and impact—together. We hope you enjoy!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 28, 2026Episode 720 min

Donor-Advised Funds and Why Nonprofits Need to Lean In Now with Sarah Angello, co-founder of Daffodil

Donor-advised funds are reshaping philanthropy and nonprofit leaders need to be ready. In this episode, Jarrett Ransom talks with Sarah Angello, co-founder of Daffodil, about the rapid growth of DAFs, what motivates donors to use them, and how nonprofits can better cultivate and steward these supporters. Sarah shares practical steps organizations can take to become more DAF-ready, along with insights into multigenerational giving, the future of family philanthropy, and the growing demand for transparency and visible impact. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

August 21, 2026Episode 627 min

When It’s Time for a Leadership Change with Melissa Steimer

What happens when you realize it’s time for your next leadership chapter? In this episode, Jarrett Ransom sits down with Melissa Steimer, CEO of Desert Foothills Library, to talk candidly about making a difficult career transition, stepping into a new CEO role, and navigating the critical first 90 days. Melissa shares lessons on trusting your gut, knowing when you’re no longer the right leader for an organization’s next chapter, building trust through listening, and why succession planning should start long before a transition is on the horizon. Whether you’re considering a career change or preparing for leadership succession, this honest conversation offers practical insight for nonprofit leaders at every stage. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

August 14, 2026Episode 536 min

Navigating a Nonprofit Rebrand with Matt Sandoval

What does it really take to rebrand a nonprofit? In this episode, Matt Sandoval, CEO of Art Heals Arizona, shares the candid story behind the organization’s transition from Free Arts Arizona to Art Heals Arizona. He discusses why the change was necessary, how leaders built stakeholder trust, what surprised them along the way, and the fears that nearly slowed the process down. Matt also offers practical advice for nonprofit leaders considering a rebrand and a powerful reminder not to let fear take the driver’s seat. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

August 7, 2026Episode 425 min

Confidence, Competence & Cultural Dexterity with Megan Bell

The nonprofit sector is standing at the edge of one of the greatest opportunities in history—the largest intergenerational transfer of wealth ever recorded. In this episode, Jarrett Ransom is joined by Megan Bell, Director of Engagement at Daylight Advisors, for a thoughtful conversation about how philanthropic advising is evolving beyond tax strategies to focus on purpose, legacy, and meaningful relationships. Together, they explore why confidence, competence, and cultural dexterity are essential for today's nonprofit professionals, how fundraisers can become trusted partners to wealth advisors and philanthropic planners, and what organizations can do now to prepare for the next generation of donors. From collaborative giving to engaging women philanthropists and navigating modern assets like cryptocurrency, this episode offers practical insights to help nonprofit leaders strengthen donor relationships and maximize mission impact. Whether you're a fundraiser, executive leader, or anyone passionate about the future of philanthropy, this conversation will leave you inspired to show up, build trust, and embrace the opportunities ahead. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

July 31, 2026Episode 325 min

The Collaboration Compass with Kate Harris

Nonprofit leaders should be thinking about collaboration as an ongoing strategic practice, not just during times of crisis. In this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed, Kate Harris joins Jarrett Ransom to explore why partnerships, shared services, mergers, and other collaborative models should be part of every nonprofit leader's toolkit. Together, they discuss common misconceptions about collaboration, how to know when it's time to explore new organizational structures, and why keeping your mission at the center of every decision leads to stronger, more sustainable impact. Kate also introduces her Collaboration Compass framework and shares practical guidance for leaders who are "collaboration curious." This conversation challenges nonprofit leaders to replace fear with curiosity and view collaboration as an opportunity to better serve their communities. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

July 24, 2026Episode 228 min

The Mindset Behind Healthy Organizations with Malika Hodge

Strong organizations are built on more than great missions, they're built on healthy leadership. In this episode, Jarrett Ransom sits down with Malika Hodge, founder and CEO of Human-Centered Leadership Collaborative, to explore how leadership mindset shapes workplace culture, psychological safety, and organizational success. Together, they discuss why people—not just processes—are an organization's greatest asset, how leaders can foster trust and clarity, and practical steps nonprofit executives can take to build healthier, more resilient teams that thrive. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

July 17, 2026Episode 16 min

The Power of Shared Learning: 100 Episodes Later

In this special Season 11 kickoff, Jarrett Ransom, host of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed reflects on the conversations, lessons, and inspiring nonprofit leaders who have shaped the podcast over the years. She shares her gratitude for the community of changemakers, partners, and listeners who continue to strengthen the nonprofit sector through shared learning and authentic connection. Plus, get a preview of what's ahead this season as eight remarkable guests join the conversation to explore leadership, innovation, resilience, and lasting impact. Here's to continuing to learn, grow, and change the world together. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

June 19, 2026Episode 104 min

100 Episodes Later: Gratitude, Growth, and Nonprofit Leadership

As we close out Season 10 of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed, we're also celebrating a major milestone — our 100th episode. 🥳 In this special season finale, I reflect on the incredible guests, meaningful conversations, and powerful lessons shared throughout the season. From leadership and fundraising to governance, innovation, and sustainability, this season highlighted the passion and resilience that drive the nonprofit sector forward. Thank you to our guests, our sponsor Bloomerang, and our listeners for being part of this journey. Until next season, stay curious, stay connected, and keep unleashing your impact, one conversation at a time. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

June 12, 2026Episode 924 min

Donor Trust, Millennial Giving & the Future of Fundraising with Bloomerang’s Melaina Chromy

In this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed, Jarrett Ransom sits down with Melaina Chromy, Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Bloomerang, to unpack key findings from Bloomerang’s latest Giving Signals Report. Together, they explore what today’s donors are telling nonprofits about trust, transparency, and generosity, including why millennials are emerging as one of the most engaged giving generations. The conversation also dives into donor experience, online giving friction, and practical ways nonprofits can strengthen donor relationships by clearly communicating impact and building confidence in every gift. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!

June 5, 2026Episode 838 min

Navigating Complex Advocacy with Scott Stanley

In this thought-provoking episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed, Jarrett Ransom sits down with Scott Stanley, director of the North American Association of Visionary Churches (NAAVC) and Arizona Assembly, to explore the intersection of nonprofit leadership, advocacy, religious freedom, and emerging psychedelic policy. Scott shares insights from a six-year legal battle with the DEA, the challenges of building legitimacy in highly regulated spaces, and the importance of coalition building, governance, and mission-driven leadership. Together, they unpack how organizations can navigate complexity, inspire meaningful action, and create informed oversight through honest dialogue and strategic collaboration. --- Enjoyed this episode of Nonprofit Nerd®: Impact Unleashed ? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest updates. A huge thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show! Click here to learn more about Bloomerang . And of course, thanks for listening ! We appreciate you being part of our community, and we’ll see you next time!