Start & Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast

Hosted by Tim Needham

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Sep 2026

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About the show

Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast with Tim Needham brings together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communities, and the world. Visit startandgrowyournonprofit.com for more information.

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55 recent

September 28, 2026Episode 137 min

From Brokenness to Redemption with Chad Fisher

Welcome to Season 2! In this episode, Tim sits down with Chad Fisher, founder of Restore the Wonder , a faith-based nonprofit serving children who have experienced abuse and abandonment. Chad shares the deeply personal story behind the organization and how his own experience with childhood brokenness ultimately became part of a mission to help other children experience healing, hope, and the freedom to simply be kids. Through Restore the Wonder's faith-based summer camp and other initiatives, Chad and his team intentionally create an environment where children feel safe, valued, seen, and understood. Topics discussed include: Turning personal brokenness into a mission to serve others Building a culture of safety, belonging, and joy Why nonprofit leaders must intentionally create, cultivate, and protect their organizational culture

November 4, 2025Episode 5244 min

Episode 52 - Living Out Your Calling Through Creativity with Jaime Zayas

In this inspiring episode, nonprofit coach Tim Needham sits down with Jaime Zayas , founder and Executive Director of Kinetic Tapestry , a faith-based circus and theater company that's redefining what entertainment can look like when it's rooted in purpose. Jaime shares the incredible story of how his love for performance and ministry came together to form Kinetic Tapestry—a nonprofit that brings creativity, community, and Christ-centered storytelling to the stage. Together, Tim and Jaime talk about what it means to live out your calling with boldness, creativity, and faith. Whether you're an artist, ministry leader, or nonprofit entrepreneur, this conversation will encourage you to embrace your unique gifts and pursue the vision God's placed in your heart. We'll discuss: Merging creativity, faith, and community impact The challenges and rewards of pioneering a unique nonprofit model Staying faithful to your calling through seasons of change Building a team and culture that reflect your mission To learn more about Kinetic Tapestry, visit their website or connect with them on Facebook , Instagram , or YouTube . To learn more about the new facility campaign for Kinetic Tapestry, visit https://www.kinetictapestry.org/macc . To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/ . To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com .

October 21, 2025Episode 5143 min

Episode 51 - How Structure and Systems Strengthen Your Mission with Erin Wells

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Erin Wells, Administrative Director for Restoration House STL, to talk about what it looks like to keep your nonprofit organized, efficient, and mission-focused behind the scenes. Erin shares how she stepped into nonprofit administration, the systems that keep Restoration House running smoothly, and how her role supports both the leadership team and the young adults they serve. Together, they explore the value of structure, communication, and faith when juggling the many moving pieces of a growing organization. Whether you're a founder trying to build your team or an admin looking to refine your processes, this conversation will leave you encouraged and equipped. We'll discuss: The balance between structure and flexibility in operations How organization supports mission and team culture Navigating challenges and maintaining clear communication The spiritual and practical sides of nonprofit leadership To learn more about Restoration House STL, visit their website or connect with them on Facebook or Instagram . To contact Erin, email erin@restorationhousestl.org To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/ . To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com . To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com .

October 7, 2025Episode 5052 min

Episode 50 - What Makes Nonprofit Programming Work with Lilly Blake

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni are joined by Lilly Blake , Director of Programming for Restoration House STL. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of building strong programming that truly meets the needs of the community. Lilly shares her firsthand experience designing and managing programs for young adults and how she balances structure, flexibility, and compassion in her work. The conversation highlights the importance of being intentional, adaptable, and rooted in your mission when it comes to programming. Whether you're developing your first program or refining existing ones, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for nonprofit leaders at every stage. We'll discuss: Designing impactful programming with intentionality Balancing structure and flexibility in nonprofit programs Meeting real needs while staying true to your mission The role of leadership and collaboration in program success To learn more about Restoration House STL, visit their website or connect with them on Facebook or Instagram . To contact Lilly, email lilly@restorationhousestl.org To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/ . To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com . To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com .

September 9, 2025Episode 4947 min

Episode 49 - How Neighborliness Transforms Communities with David Docusen

In this episode, nonprofit coach and Executive Director Tim Needham sits down with Dr. David Docusen , author of Neighborhoods & Nations, founder of The Neighborliness Center, and President of International Ministry Network. David's passion is helping leaders bridge divides, foster community, and create practical solutions that meet both spiritual and physical needs. Together, Tim and David dive into what it looks like to engage neighborhoods with compassion, generosity, and a long-term vision for transformation. David shares lessons from his own journey of leading churches and nonprofits, as well as the importance of empowering local leaders and building partnerships that last. Whether you're in the early stages of launching your nonprofit or looking to deepen your community impact, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and love deeper. They discuss: Building authentic community partnerships The power of generosity and compassion in community work The importance of equity and access in serving communities Staying rooted in your mission during challenges and change Empowering local leaders and fostering collaboration To find the Holistic Community Development Framework mentioned in this episode, go to https://neighborliness.com/resources/ . To learn more about International Ministry Network, visit their website . To learn more about The Neighborliness Center, visit their website . For more information about David, visit his website or connect with him on Facebook or Instagram . You can also purchase his books on Amazon . To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/ . To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com .

August 19, 2025Episode 4853 min

Episode 48 - How to Market Your Movement with Duane Zingale

In this episode, Tim sits down with marketing strategist and former missionary Duane Zingale . Duane shares how his journey from the mission field to marketing taught him the importance of storytelling, vision, and building true community around a cause. Here's what we'll cover: Duane's journey from missionary work to marketing expert Why every nonprofit needs a guiding "movement manifest" How stories create connection, trust, and advocacy The balance between vision and organizational structure Whether you're just starting your nonprofit or leading an established organization, this conversation will challenge you to think beyond tactics and lean into strategy, vision, and authentic human connection. For more information on Duane Zingale, and to download his free resource, The LISTEN Framework visit his website . Listen to the Marketing Your Movement Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts . To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/ . To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com . To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com .

August 12, 202549 min

Start & Grow: Rewind – How to Invite Others Into Your Story with Bob Stergos

Welcome to Start & Grow: Rewind , where we're bringing back some of our most popular and impactful episodes from the archives. Some conversations change how we think about building meaningful organizations. In this Rewind episode, host Tim Needham sits down with Bob Stergos, co-founder and Executive Director of A Seat at the Table , for one of those transformative discussions. This conversation goes beyond Bob's inspiring work. It dives deep into one of the most essential skills for nonprofit leaders: how to cast a vision that invites others to see themselves as part of your story. Whether you're in the early stages of building your nonprofit or looking to deepen community engagement around your existing organization, Bob's insights on storytelling, vision-casting, and authentic relationship-building will provide the guidance you need. For more information about A Seat at the Table, visit their website or follow them on Facebook or YouTube . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit: http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . Contact Tim at tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com Contact Mary at mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com

August 5, 2025Episode 4747 min

Episode 47 - How One Loaf of Bread Is Changing Lives with Fred Domke

In this episode, nonprofit coach Tim Needham sits down with Fred Domke, the co-founder and Executive Director of Bridge Bread Bakery in St. Louis, Missouri. Fred shares the powerful story behind how a simple act—baking bread—sparked a sustainable, dignity-driven social enterprise that provides employment and purpose to individuals experiencing homelessness. With transparency and heart, Fred opens up about: The moment he realized baking could be a vehicle for change The entrepreneurial challenges of launching a social enterprise What nonprofits can learn from a bakery model Why "being a good neighbor" is at the core of Bridge Bread's mission Whether you're just getting started or are looking for fresh ideas to expand your impact, this conversation will leave you inspired to think outside the box—and maybe even bake a loaf of bread. For more information on Bridge Bread Bakery, visit their website , or check them out on Facebook or Instagram . To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/ . To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com . To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com .

July 29, 202540 min

Start & Grow: Rewind – How To Start Your Nonprofit with Tim Needham

We're bringing back one of our favorite conversations for this special episode of Start & Grow: Rewind . Whether you're brand new or revisiting your roots, this episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit entrepreneur. In this candid conversation, Mary Valloni sits down with fellow coach and Executive Director Tim Needham. Together, they unpack the foundational steps of starting a nonprofit—from dreaming up your mission to putting the essential structures in place. Since first recording this episode, Tim's organization, Restoration House STL , has served thousands of young people in St. Louis, MO. He also co-founded Nonprofit Academy to help guide other leaders on their journey. For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit: http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . Contact Tim at tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com Contact Mary at mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com

July 21, 2025Episode 4645 min

Episode 46 - How to Crush Your Year-End Fundraising Goal

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni share their proven strategies to help you make the most of year-end fundraising. With decades of experience raising millions for nonprofits, Mary breaks down what it takes to approach this crucial season with clarity, confidence, and creativity. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your nonprofit's impact, this episode will equip you to finish the year strong and set your mission up for success. We'll discuss: Setting realistic yet ambitious year-end fundraising goals Crafting donor-centered messaging that inspires action Building a timeline and checklist for a stress-free campaign Tips for creating a culture of gratitude and follow-up. For more information about our upcoming live workshop, check out our workshop page . To visit and join the Start & Grow Your Nonprofit private Facebook group, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/startandgrowyournonprofit . Have a question for our coaches? Visit our podcast page . For more information about Nonprofit Academy and to download our free resources, visit http://startandgrowyournonprofit.com/ . To contact Tim, email tim@startandgrowyournonprofit.com . To contact Mary, email mary@startandgrowyournonprofit.com .