The Nonprofit Exchange: Leadership Tools & Strategies

In this episode of theNonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Noah Massey, a seasoned leader with over 42 years of experience at UPS. Noah shared his journey from a college student working to pay for his education to becoming a high-level executive, emphasizing the importance of value-based leadership throughout his career.

We discussed the concept of leadership as the ability to influence individuals or groups towards positive outcomes, highlighting the significance of coaching and development in leadership roles. Noah’s insights on the “terms and conditions” of leadership were particularly enlightening, as he explained how every individual has their own set of expectations that must be acknowledged for effective team dynamics.

Noah also introduced his book, “Been Promoted: Your Guide for New Leaders and Their Teams,” which aims to support newly promoted leaders, especially in the nonprofit sector. He emphasized the need for intentional leadership, where leaders articulate their values and establish a congruence within their teams.

Throughout our conversation, Noah shared powerful anecdotes and practical techniques, such as the “four by five method” for handling challenging situations and the importance of listening as both a skill and a value. He underscored that leadership is not just about achieving results but about investing in the development of others.

As we wrapped up, Noah left us with a profound reminder: “You can’t hope to get more than you give.” This principle serves as a guiding light for leaders who aspire to foster high-performing teams. I encourage our listeners to reflect on their own leadership journeys and consider how they can invest in the people they lead.

For more insights and resources, be sure to check out Noah’s website at noelmassey.com, where you can find his book and a masterclass that expands on the topics we discussed. Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Nonprofit Exchange!

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In this episode of the Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with John Hankins, a financial therapist with a rich background in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. We delved into the critical topic of financial therapy and how it can help nonprofit leaders overcome financial anxiety.

John shared his journey, starting from his early days as a CFO in a small nonprofit to his transition into financial therapy after witnessing the anxiety many nonprofit leaders face when managing funds they’ve never encountered before. He emphasized the importance of understanding our personal money stories and how they shape our relationship with money.

We discussed the contrast between healthy and unhealthy relationships with money, highlighting how misalignment between our financial goals, feelings, and actions can lead to anxiety. John pointed out that societal pressures and the stigma around discussing money contribute to this anxiety, especially in the nonprofit sector, where leaders often feel guilty about raising funds.

John introduced the concept of financial therapy as an essential overlay to traditional therapy, aimed at building a positive relationship with money. He also mentioned the Financial Therapy Association, which bridges the gap between financial planning and emotional well-being.

Throughout our conversation, we explored the behaviors that can hinder nonprofit leaders, such as reluctance to engage with financial details and feelings of shame around money. John encouraged listeners to recognize that it’s okay to talk about money and to seek help in navigating their financial relationships.

As we wrapped up, John offered a valuable reminder: everyone has a relationship with money, regardless of their financial situation, and exploring that relationship can lead to significant improvements in both personal and professional life. I hope this episode inspires nonprofit leaders to address their financial anxieties and consider the benefits of financial therapy.

Get the full transcript at – https://synervisionleadership.org/2025/06/16/npe-financial-therapy/

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Lora Lapiz, a dynamic individual with a rich background in neuroscience, public health, and various industries, including nonprofit and government policy. Our discussion centered around the theme “Cut Through the Noise, Clear the Static,” emphasizing the importance of awareness in leadership.

Laura shared her insights on how leaders often overlook the signals the universe sends us, which can lead to missed opportunities and blind spots in our interactions. We explored the concept of personal awareness, highlighting that understanding ourselves is crucial for effectively leading our teams and organizations.

One of the key takeaways was Laura’s framework of the “three R’s”: Release, Receive, and Resolve. She explained that to foster growth and transformation, we must let go of what no longer serves us, be open to receiving new insights, and have the courage to act on them.

We also discussed the significance of deep listening and creating a non-judgmental environment where team members feel safe to express their thoughts. Laura emphasized that by observing and understanding the dynamics within a team, leaders can better address the underlying issues that may be hindering progress.

As we wrapped up, Laura posed a thought-provoking question to our audience: “What is the message that has been circulating around you that you’ve been avoiding?” This challenge encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences and consider how they can apply the principles we discussed to enhance their leadership journey.

I hope you find this episode inspiring and that it prompts you to cultivate greater awareness in your leadership practice. Thank you for tuning in!

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In this episode of the Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with John Graham, the founder of Good Samaritan Home, a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals reintegrate into society after incarceration. At 77 years old, John shared his remarkable journey, which includes a diverse career path and a commitment to providing second chances for those who have faced significant challenges.

John’s story began with a series of career detours, leading him and his wife to open their home as a shelter for individuals coming out of prison. Over the past 25 years, they have expanded from one house to 21, helping over 2,500 people restart their lives. John emphasized the importance of community support and building relationships, even in the face of opposition from neighbors and local authorities.

Throughout our conversation, John highlighted the challenges of running a nonprofit, particularly the financial struggles and the stigma associated with helping formerly incarcerated individuals. He shared how their faith and commitment to serving others motivated them to persevere, focusing on meeting the needs of the community without judgment.

We also discussed the impact of their work on individuals like “Jimmy,” a mentally unstable veteran who found a home and a sense of belonging at Good Samaritan Home for 14 years. John’s insights into the importance of accountability and responsibility in rehabilitation were profound, emphasizing a shift from “I” to “we” in the recovery process.

John’s recent book, “Running As Fast As I Can,” encapsulates his journey and the message of hope and second chances. He encourages listeners to keep striving for their goals, regardless of their past or the obstacles they face. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of compassion and community support.

More at – https://goodsamaritanhome.org/ and

https://johndavidgraham.com/

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Topher Taylor, a seasoned professional from the entertainment industry who has transitioned into exploring the power of intention. Topher has an impressive background, having worked on numerous beloved children’s shows and earned a PhD in policy planning and development. His passion for understanding the human experience led him to study how intentions can impact our reality.

Topher shared fascinating insights from his research, particularly how intention can influence not just individual lives but also broader systems, including organizations and communities. He discussed compelling experiments that demonstrate how positive intentions can lead to tangible outcomes, such as improved health and performance. One notable example involved a study where athletes experienced enhanced performance through the power of intention, highlighting the interconnectedness of our thoughts and actions.

We delved into the importance of clarity in our intentions, both as individuals and organizations, and how this clarity can guide our actions and decisions. Topher emphasized that by setting positive intentions for ourselves and those we serve, we can create a ripple effect that benefits our communities.

As we wrapped up, Topher encouraged listeners to practice sending healing and positive intentions to themselves and others, suggesting that this practice could lead to transformative changes in their lives. This conversation was not only enlightening but also a reminder of the profound impact we can have when we lead with intention and compassion in our work.

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Paddy Shannon, the founder of Great Works, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing healthcare access in Jamaica and beyond. Paddy shared his inspiring journey, which began over 15 years ago when he accompanied his wife on a dental mission trip to Jamaica. What started as a reluctant trip turned into a passionate commitment to serve the underserved populations in the region.

The episode’s title, “Unlocking Healthcare Potential: Building a Collaborative Mobile Infrastructure for Nonprofits,” reflects Paddy’s vision of creating a robust infrastructure that allows medical and dental professionals to focus on their work without the burden of logistical challenges. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, explaining how his organization aims to provide the necessary equipment and support for various healthcare initiatives, allowing volunteers to concentrate on delivering care.

Paddy discussed the significant need for healthcare services in Jamaica, where many people line up for hours to receive treatment. Despite the existence of nationalized healthcare, access remains limited, and Paddy’s organization seeks to fill that gap by offering free services to patients. He highlighted the impact of their work, noting that the organization he has been involved with has treated over 350,000 patients in Jamaica alone.

We also explored the collaborative aspect of Paddy’s work, where he invites other nonprofits and medical professionals to utilize the infrastructure he is building. By providing the necessary equipment and support, Paddy hopes to empower more volunteers to engage in meaningful service without the logistical headaches that often accompany such missions.

As we wrapped up the conversation, Paddy shared insights into the formation of Great Works, Inc., and his vision for expanding its reach to other Caribbean countries. His enthusiasm for creating a sustainable model for healthcare delivery is truly inspiring, and I encourage anyone interested in volunteering or supporting this important work to connect with Great Works, Inc.

This episode is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that dedicated individuals can have on communities in need. Thank you for joining us, and I hope you find inspiration in Paddy’s story and the work being done through Great Works, Inc.

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Richard Stern, an experienced leader in the nonprofit sector, specifically in mental health services. Richard shared his journey from intern to executive leadership at Door of Hope, a social services nonprofit that provides vital mental health support across the tri-state area.

Our discussion centered around the critical topic of team dynamics within nonprofits—specifically, how to effectively recruit, develop, and reward talent. Richard emphasized the importance of building a cohesive team through thoughtful recruitment, particularly focusing on nurturing young talent who can be molded to fit the organization’s culture. He highlighted the significance of creating a supportive environment where team members can bond through informal team-building events, which can enhance morale and foster a collaborative atmosphere.

We also explored the misconceptions leaders often have about team dynamics, particularly the need for a nuanced understanding of individual team members’ needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Richard stressed the importance of recognizing the emotional and psychological aspects of team interactions, advocating for a more personalized approach to leadership.

Additionally, we discussed the continuum of recruiting, assimilating, developing, and rewarding team members, with Richard providing insights on how to incentivize employees effectively. He pointed out that understanding the timing and significance of rewards can greatly enhance loyalty and performance.

As we wrapped up, Richard shared valuable advice on thinking outside the box and remaining open to innovative solutions in the nonprofit landscape. This episode is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders looking to strengthen their teams and create a thriving organizational culture.

For more insights and to access the full transcript, visit thenonprofitexchange.org.

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I, Hugh Ballou, had the pleasure of reconnecting with an old friend and seasoned entrepreneur, Clay Hicks. Clay is the founder of H7, a network dedicated to fostering meaningful connections among professionals. Our discussion centered around his trademarked methodology: “Connect, Serve, and Ask,” which has been a guiding principle in his work since its inception in 2018.

Clay shared his journey as an entrepreneur over the past 23 years, emphasizing his passion for leadership and the importance of building relationships. He recounted how the “Connect, Serve, and Ask” methodology evolved from his experiences of meeting with individuals one-on-one, initially starting in 2014. Through his reflections, he realized the significance of connecting with others, serving them genuinely, and ultimately asking for help when needed. This approach has proven to be a powerful way to earn trust and build mutually beneficial relationships.

We delved into the importance of focusing on relationships rather than outcomes, a concept that resonated deeply with both of us. Clay articulated that when we prioritize building solid relationships, the desired outcomes—whether in fundraising, networking, or team dynamics—become more predictable and achievable. He highlighted that this principle is crucial for nonprofit leaders who aim to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

As we explored the role of social media, particularly LinkedIn, in building connections, Clay pointed out common mistakes that many make, such as relying on automated messages and failing to provide value in their posts. He stressed the importance of authentic engagement and the need to treat social media as a platform for relationship-building rather than mere self-promotion.

Clay also introduced practical strategies for initiating conversations with potential volunteers, board members, and donors. He provided insightful questions to help listeners connect with others on a deeper level, emphasizing the value of understanding their stories and needs.

Throughout the episode, Clay’s enthusiasm for helping others and his commitment to fostering a culture of trust and collaboration shone through. He invited listeners to explore H7 and participate in their meetings to experience firsthand the power of networking grounded in the “Connect, Serve, and Ask” philosophy.

In closing, Clay left us with a powerful reminder: when we focus on relationships, the outcomes we seek will naturally follow. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for nonprofit leaders looking to enhance their networking skills and build impactful relationships in their work.

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In this episode of the Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Charryse Johnson, a licensed clinical mental health therapist, mindfulness practitioner, and author. We delved into her insightful topic, “Expired Mindsets: Releasing Patterns That No Longer Serve You Well,” which is also the title of her book.

Dr. Johnson shared her passion for helping nonprofit leaders navigate the complexities of their roles while maintaining their personal well-being. She emphasized the importance of recognizing that our personal and professional lives are intertwined, and how our mindsets can significantly impact our effectiveness as leaders.

We discussed the concept of “expired mindsets,” which refers to outdated beliefs and patterns that may have once served us but are now hindering our growth. Dr. Johnson provided practical examples of how to identify these blind spots, such as noticing discrepancies between our thoughts and actions or feeling stuck in self-sabotaging behaviors.

One of the key myths we explored was the belief that “the way I’ve always done it is the best way.” Dr. Johnson encouraged leaders to adopt a mindset of curiosity and openness to change, suggesting that a pivot can be a more approachable alternative to the daunting idea of change.

Throughout our conversation, we touched on the significance of self-awareness and the impact of negative thoughts on leadership culture. Dr. Johnson highlighted the importance of reframing our inner dialogue and being mindful of how our beliefs can influence those around us.

As we wrapped up, Dr. Johnson shared valuable insights on the necessity of applying knowledge to foster personal and organizational growth. She left us with a powerful reminder: “Knowledge is not power without application.”

This episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking concepts that can help leaders at all levels enhance their effectiveness and well-being. For those interested in exploring more, the full transcript and additional resources can be found on our website, nonprofitexchange.org.

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