Nonprofit Thrive

Hosted by Ben Freda

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Aug 2024

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This is Nonprofit Thrive, a podcast where we learn from the humans who are helping nonprofits succeed in the digital world.

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21 recent

August 7, 202450 min

Using Empathy Practices in Conservation With Emily Bernhardt of the Woodland Park Zoo

Emily Bernhardt is an Empathy Network Specialist at ACE (Advancing Conservation through Empathy) for Wildlife, a network that encourages accredited institutions to foster empathy for wildlife conservation actions. With a degree in zoology, she has experience working for various zoos, including being an Education and Social Media Coordinator at ZooMontana. Emily was also an outdoor educator in the South Carolina salt marshes and studied spotted hyenas in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya. In this episode… When advancing a cause, mission-driven professionals often believe that arming people with knowledge is enough to drive action. Yet this often has the opposite effect as people become overwhelmed with choices and immense responsibility. How can you motivate the public to advocate for your mission? Passionate wildlife conservationist Emily Bernhardt champions empathy practices in wildlife conservation efforts. Through a network of empathy drivers, she distills complex and abstract concepts into inspiring and relatable stories about specific animals in zoo enclosures. These stories are integrated with simple, actionable steps zoo guests can take to preserve wildlife. These methods allow people to feel connected to a single animal by tapping into their emotions. Additionally, easily accessible technology platforms and video mediums connect people to the mission and foster further action. In today's Nonprofit Thrive episode, Ben Freda sits down with Emily Bernhardt, the Empathy Network Specialist at ACE for Wildlife, to discuss the power of empathy in wildlife conservation. She shares research into animal behaviors and emotions, her passion to inspire the next generation of nature enthusiasts and animal lovers, and how she leverages technology to connect networks of conservationists.

July 24, 202444 min

Designing Office Spaces That Work for the Post-Covid World With Francis Court of WONDERSPHERE

Francis Court is the Founder and CEO of WONDERSPHERE, an integrated branding, design, and creative communications agency with offices in Chicago and London. With a vision to blend innovative design with strategic communication, Francis has built WONDERSPHERE into a leading agency known for its transformative approach to brand development. Under his leadership, the agency has successfully partnered with diverse clients across various industries, delivering compelling and cohesive brand experiences. Francis's expertise in both creative and strategic realms has positioned WONDERSPHERE as a trailblazer in the global branding and design landscape. In this episode… An office design should strengthen the connection between an organization's mission and the people dedicated to achieving it. But can design foster a unique culture that transcends mere aesthetics? Francis Court, a space designer, emphasizes the possibility. He argues that office design creates a powerful narrative embodying a nonprofit's mission, with a clear connection between website design and physical space planning. Both disciplines require a deep understanding of how to create an engaging, functional, and mission-driven experience. By thoughtfully designing office spaces, nonprofits can ensure their environment supports their mission, foster a unique culture, and inspire everyone to work toward a common goal. In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast, Ben Freda welcomes Francis Court, Founder and CEO of WONDERSPHERE. They discuss how digital and physical spaces can strengthen connections between a company's missions and the people involved in fulfilling those missions. Francis shares his journey from an architect frustrated by conventional office design to a visionary transforming nonprofit spaces. He also explores the synergy between online presence and office architecture, showing how coherence between them can amplify your message and mission.

July 17, 202445 min

The Secrets of Effective Presentations With Nolan Haims

Nolan Haims is the Owner of Nolan Haims Creative, a firm specializing in visual storytelling for effective communication. With over 20 years of experience in design, branding, and communication, Nolan is a sought-after expert in presentation design and visual content creation. Before founding his firm, he held leadership roles at several renowned companies, including Edelman, where he was Vice President and Director of Presentation. As one of the only 15 Microsoft PowerPoint MVPs in the US, his work spans various industries, helping clients develop compelling presentations that resonate with audiences. Nolan also co-hosts The Presentation Podcast and is a respected speaker and author, sharing his insights at conferences and workshops. In this episode… Transforming an ordinary presentation into an extraordinary experience involves more than just sleek design — it requires a strategic approach to storytelling and audience engagement. What are valuable insights and tools to achieve this transformation? Visual communications designer Nolan Haims offers The Better Deck Deck, a tool that helps presenters enhance their visual storytelling. Besides leveraging this tool in creating compelling, visually captivating slides, Nolan also emphasizes using personal anecdotes and relevant stories to make content more relatable and memorable. Storytelling simplifies complex information and makes it more appealing. These techniques, combined with an audience-friendly structure, transform ordinary presentations into extraordinary experiences, leaving a lasting impression. In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast, Ben Freda welcomes Nolan Haims, Owner of Nolan Haims Creative, to discuss transforming the ordinary presentation into an extraordinary experience. Nolan shares why excessive words can kill your message, the secrets to creating 'glanceable' slides, and his expertise in utilizing personal stories to enhance the impact of presentations in the nonprofit sector.

July 10, 202435 min

Gauging a Nonprofit's Readiness for Salesforce With Watt Hamlett

Watt Hamlett is the Founder and Principal of Watt Hamlett Consulting, offering strategic guidance and innovative solutions to organizations seeking to enhance their impact. Watt brings over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, specializing in CRM, mission management, and constituent engagement. Before founding his consulting firm, Watt held senior leadership positions in various organizations, where he honed his expertise in strategic planning, organizational development, and program evaluation. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Watt has authored the Nonprofit Guide to Choosing a Salesforce Consulting Partner and the Salesforce.org Consulting Partner Landscape Report. He also contributes to SalesforceBen.com and speaks at podcasts, webinars, user groups, and conferences, including the inaugural Dreamin' In Color conference in 2022. In this episode… In today's digital landscape, the foundational aspects of web development remain crucial for nonprofits aiming to enhance their online presence and operational efficiency. One significant step in this journey is determining the readiness for a Salesforce implementation project. What key indicators are involved in identifying whether a nonprofit is prepared for such an undertaking? Salesforce executive and consultant Watt Hamlett's approach to assessing a nonprofit's readiness begins with a comprehensive needs assessment focusing on organizational identity, challenges, and goals. This thorough evaluation helps determine if the nonprofit clearly understands its mission and the specific problems it aims to address through Salesforce. By assessing these factors, nonprofits can evaluate their readiness for a Salesforce implementation project, ensuring they are equipped to maximize the benefits of this powerful tool and make a meaningful impact in their communities. In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast, Ben Freda welcomes Watt Hamlett, Founder and Principal of Watt Hamlett Consulting, to discuss gauging a nonprofit's readiness for Salesforce. Drawing on his extensive experience, Watt addresses common challenges nonprofits encounter when considering Salesforce as a CRM solution. He underscores the importance of having a clear organizational identity, being prepared to embrace change, and strategically planning for software implementation.

July 3, 202444 min

Symphonies, Orchestras, and Showing Supporters the Love With Rachel Rossos Gallant

Rachel Rossos Gallant is the Vice President of Marketing and Memberships at the League of American Orchestras. As an alumna of the League's Executive Leadership Program, she brings nearly two decades of experience in revenue generation, customer retention, and enhancing the customer experience within orchestras. Rachel is dedicated to advancing the field and is excited to contribute to the League's mission on a broader scale. Beyond her professional commitments, Rachel is an accomplished singer, songwriter, producer, and poet, frequently collaborating with her husband on various recording projects. In this episode… In the world of nonprofits, particularly within the realm of music organizations, harnessing the power of relationship marketing and customer loyalty is crucial for long-term success. How does building and maintaining strong relationships with supporters strengthen the organization's foundation and foster a loyal community essential for sustained growth and impact? Singer-songwriter Rachel Rossos Gallant proposes personal artistic pursuits, like composing or performing, to significantly enhance professional creativity and innovation. When nonprofit leaders and marketers embrace these activities, they infuse their work with fresh ideas, driving the organization forward with renewed energy and vision. By integrating marketing initiatives, communication strategies, and digital tools, nonprofits in the music sector can harness the power of music and marketing to drive growth, enhance engagement, and achieve their mission more effectively. In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast with Ben Freda, Rachel Rossos Gallant, Vice President of Marketing and Memberships at the League of American Orchestras, shares strategies for building community among orchestra patrons and discusses the organization's shift to digital platforms. Rachel also explores how music perception inspires innovative marketing techniques and the challenges and advantages of transitioning a longstanding print publication into the digital age.

June 26, 202455 min

Communicating in Public Health With Molly Garrone

Molly Garrone oversees the development and implementation of the CHOICES Project's communications strategy to disseminate and promote its research. She also conducts communications training and workshops for state and local health agency staff and their partners and creates communication materials and resources. Additionally, Molly supports the promotional efforts for the CHOICES Community of Practice and moderates monthly Coffee Chat engagement opportunities for a national network of public health practitioners. Beyond CHOICES, Molly is the Senior Communications Coordinator at the Prevention Research Center on Nutrition and Physical Activity at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. In her role, she manages the communication and promotion of the Center's research and events. In this episode… In today's digital age, health communication encounters unique challenges in reaching diverse and widespread audiences. Traditional methods frequently prove inadequate, underscoring the importance of leveraging digital media effectively. According to healthcare professional Molly Garrone, effective health communication through digital media demands a comprehensive strategy. This approach involves understanding challenges, eschewing ineffective fear tactics, managing communities of practice, and employing accessibility tools. By adopting these methods, health communicators can successfully engage their audiences. Furthermore, integrating AI holds promise for further enhancing these efforts, aiming to make health communication more inclusive and impactful. In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast, Molly Garrone, a communication specialist with the CHOICES Project, explores the use of digital media for effective health communication. She delves into the shortcomings of fear tactics in public health messaging, offers insights on building a professional network, and discusses strategies and tools for enhancing digital content accessibility.

June 19, 202448 min

Knowledge Management for Accessibility With Hilary Wartinger

Hilary Wartinger is the Senior Advisor of Knowledge Management at Save the Children, focusing on the Healthy Newborn Network. With a wealth of experience in humanitarian contexts across Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Somalia, Hilary is committed to addressing crucial knowledge deficits in newborn health. Before Save the Children, she was pivotal as the Advisor of Sexual and Reproductive Health at the Women's Refugee Commission. Hilary's background includes service as a Peace Corps volunteer and academic achievements such as a master's degree in public health from Columbia University, alongside degrees in journalism and international relations. She specializes in devising strategies to ensure the accessibility and equity of health information in the digital sphere. In this episode… Knowledge management plays a crucial role in public health and organizational development. It involves the systematic process of managing, storing, and sharing an organization's wealth of information and data. This encompasses reports, data, and lessons learned from both successes and failures. The objective is twofold: ensuring internal accessibility for staff and partners and making this knowledge available to the wider world. The move towards equitable knowledge sharing aims to elevate and integrate diverse sources of wisdom. Public health professional Hilary Wartinger emphasizes this shift, acknowledging that all knowledge — whether from academic research, local traditions, or indigenous practices — is valuable and powerful. By fostering an open-source approach to information, organizations can promote a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of public health challenges and solutions. On the latest episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast with Ben Freda, Hilary Wartinger, Senior Advisor of Knowledge Management at Save the Children, talks about managing knowledge online. Hilary shares her journey from the Peace Corps to Save the Children, discussing the intricacies of knowledge sharing in the nonprofit world, the importance of understanding audience needs, and the role technology plays in bridging communication gaps.

June 12, 202439 min

How To Fix Communications About Tech With Ben Reinhardt

Ben Reinhardt is a Website Developer and Support Manager at BFC Digital, where he manages a portfolio of Drupal websites for large nonprofit organizations. Specializing in functionality enhancements, content management strategies, and website accessibility, Ben leverages over a decade of customer support experience to educate clients on the inner workings of their sites. He focuses on delivering user-friendly solutions and maintains consistent, friendly communication throughout every project. In this episode… Whether it's a website malfunctioning or filtering through thousands of outdated content pieces, the digital world is full of challenges. But can these obstacles be effectively managed and turned into growth opportunities for your organization? Nonprofit organizations face unique challenges in managing their web presence and digital strategies. Web developer Ben Reinhardt highlights how his background in teaching and writing has enhanced his ability to communicate effectively in tech support roles. Ben emphasizes that clear and concise communication is essential for guiding clients through complex digital issues and ensuring they understand the inner workings of their websites. In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast, host Ben Freda talks with Ben Reinhardt, Website Developer and Support Manager at BFC Digital, about turning digital challenges into growth opportunities. They explore the necessity of responsive communication, strategic content management, and long-term digital planning for nonprofits. Ben shares how his unconventional journey into the tech industry equipped him with the empathy and skills essential for guiding and supporting nonprofit organizations in the digital landscape.

June 5, 202450 min

Bringing Your "Whole Self" to Politics and Impact Work With Wendy Davis

Wendy Davis is the CEO of Agile Cloud Consulting, a leading firm specializing in innovative cloud solutions for businesses. She brings over 25 years of experience in managing technology for nonprofits, colleges, and universities of all types and sizes across North America and globally. Wendy's journey in the tech industry began with a degree in computer science, followed by extensive work in software development, IT consulting, and cloud technology. In 2020, amid the pandemic's challenges, Wendy boldly ran for Utah House District 45, nearing victory. Her journey inspired her to pen The Fight You Don't See, a personal account of her political campaign. Passionate about diversity and inclusion in tech, Wendy mentors aspiring professionals and advocates for underrepresented groups. In this episode… Early political inspirations can profoundly shape a child's future career. These early encounters lay the foundation for a commitment to public life, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement from a young age. Wendy Davis, an IT professional specializing in technology for colleges, universities, and nonprofits, demonstrates the power of integrating personal passions with professional expertise to drive meaningful change. With over two decades balancing technology and social impact work, she emphasizes the transformational power of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems in higher education. These systems streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and support academic institutions in providing quality education. She also highlights how the evolution of technology has significantly facilitated nonprofit missions and fundraising efforts. On today's episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast, Ben Freda hosts Wendy Davis, CEO of Agile Cloud Consulting, to discuss her multifaceted life as a tech leader, political candidate, and author. Wendy shares the impact of early political exposure on a child's future ambition, her deep-rooted commitment to the nonprofit sector's success, and the challenges and opportunities she's encountered throughout her diverse career.

May 29, 202438 min

Designing for Emotions With Kate Purcell of KP Creative Strategy

Kate Purcell is the Creative Strategist and Visual Designer for social change at KP Creative Strategy, a company that helps organizations working for social change communicate effectively and creatively. With over 15 years of experience in brand strategy and visual design, Kate specializes in crafting impactful communications that prioritize human connection. Her expertise lies in creating compelling infographics, websites, and branding, tailored to the needs of executives in the social impact sector. Kate is also the Co-Founder and Creative Director of Pulse Forward, a boutique branding and design firm for nonprofits and social enterprises. Grounded in a belief in the beauty of humanity and a spirit of generosity, she is passionate about helping her clients amplify their messages and make a difference. In this episode… Designing for emotions involves crafting experiences that resonate deeply with users on an emotional level. By understanding how design elements can evoke specific emotions, designers can create more meaningful connections with their audience. How can we harness the power of emotional design to elicit desired responses and foster memorable experiences? Creative strategist Kate Purcell discusses the crucial role of design principles in fostering effective communication. She emphasizes the significance of clarity and simplicity in conveying messages to diverse audiences, highlighting the importance of understanding users' needs and preferences. Kate underscores the value of consistency in design elements such as typography, color schemes, and layout, which contribute to enhancing readability and visual appeal. Moreover, she stresses the need for accessibility considerations to ensure that communication is inclusive and reaches individuals with diverse abilities. Kate's insights underscore the interdisciplinary nature of design and its pivotal role in facilitating meaningful interactions and conveying information effectively. In this episode of the Nonprofit Thrive podcast, Ben Freda sits down with Kate Purcell, the Creative Strategist and Visual Designer for social change at KP Creative Strategy, to talk about designing for emotions. Kate discusses how she established KP Creative Strategy, the importance of psychographics in understanding your audience, and the value of annual business reports.