In this episode of The Non-Profit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Brett Herbeck, the District Governor of Rotary District 7570, which spans parts of Virginia and Tennessee. Brett shared his deep passion for Rotary and its mission of service above self, highlighting how the organization has been a significant part of his life since childhood. He discussed the importance of community involvement and the role Rotary plays in fostering connections among diverse individuals who share a commitment to making a positive impact.

Brett elaborated on Rotary’s seven areas of focus, which include promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, growing local economies, and protecting the environment. He emphasized that these efforts contribute to creating peace in our communities and beyond.

We also explored how Rotary is evolving to be more inclusive and accessible, breaking down barriers to membership and adapting meeting formats to fit the needs of modern members. Brett encouraged listeners to find their local Rotary club, emphasizing that everyone is welcome and that there are various ways to engage with the organization.

Towards the end of our conversation, we discussed the upcoming District Conference in April, where members will gather to learn, share, and celebrate the impactful work being done across the district. Brett’s enthusiasm for Rotary and its mission was truly inspiring, and I hope this episode motivates others to get involved in their communities through service.

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with filmmaker and author Julio Gambuto. Julio shared insights from his journey in the film and television industry, particularly focusing on the lessons learned during the pandemic. His new book, “Please Unsubscribe, Thanks,” serves as a guide for individuals and organizations to reevaluate their commitments and subscriptions in a world that often feels relentless and chaotic.

Julio emphasized the importance of creating sacred spaces for reflection and the need to step back from our busy lives to assess what truly matters. He discussed the three levels of subscriptions we engage with: digital, social, and the deeper beliefs we hold about success and fulfillment. By recognizing these subscriptions, we can begin to make intentional choices that align with our values and goals.

Throughout our conversation, we explored practical strategies for setting boundaries, saying no, and delegating tasks to create more space for meaningful work. Julio’s perspective is particularly relevant for nonprofit leaders, who often find themselves caught in the hustle of doing more for their communities. He encouraged listeners to embrace feedback and to be mindful of how they show up in their organizations.

As we wrapped up, Julio reminded us to take the pressure off during the holiday season and to focus on relationships and community. His insights are a powerful reminder that we can create our own moments of celebration and connection, regardless of the time of year. I hope you enjoy this enlightening discussion as much as I did!

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In this special episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I, Hugh Ballou, have the pleasure of welcoming my dear friend Amit Banerjee, the CEO and president of Philanthropy Kids, a Dallas-based organization dedicated to inspiring and educating young people about philanthropy, volunteerism, and social entrepreneurship. Amit shares his journey and the importance of instilling philanthropic values in today’s youth, emphasizing that anyone can be a philanthropist, regardless of age or wealth.

Amit begins by outlining his background, which includes a diverse range of experiences from electrical engineering to working with various nonprofit organizations. He highlights how these experiences have shaped his commitment to community engagement and charitable activities. A pivotal moment in his life was participating in a program called PAVE (Philanthropy and Volunteerism in Education) during elementary school, which sparked his passion for philanthropy.

We delve into the PAVE program, which operates under the umbrella of Philanthropy Kids. Amit explains that PAVE partners with schools to transform traditional classrooms into environments where students learn about philanthropy, leadership, and social entrepreneurship instead of standard subjects like math or science. This innovative approach engages students in understanding their community’s needs and how they can contribute to solving them.

Amit discusses the impact of the PAVE program, noting significant improvements in students’ demonstrated philanthropic behavior, academic performance, and school attendance. He shares compelling statistics, such as an 8-12% increase in standardized test scores for students who are already passing and a staggering 30-50% increase for those who are failing. These results illustrate that learning about philanthropy not only makes students better individuals but also enhances their academic success.

Throughout our conversation, Amit emphasizes the importance of mentorship for young people, encouraging adults to support and guide the next generation. He believes that the innovative ideas and perspectives of youth can lead to meaningful solutions for societal challenges.

As we wrap up the episode, I encourage listeners to visit the Philanthropy Kids website at philanthropykids.org to learn more about their programs, get involved, and support their mission. Amit leaves us with a powerful message: “You don’t have to be rich or old to be a philanthropist. You just have to care.” This episode serves as a reminder of the vital role we all play in nurturing the philanthropic spirit in our youth and the positive impact it can have on our communities.

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Philanthropy Understood

In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with my dear friend Bob Hopkins, a renowned philanthropist and author, as we celebrated the release of his new book, Philanthropy Understood. This episode serves as a sequel to our previous discussions, reflecting on the evolution of philanthropy over the past nine years since we first began this journey together.

Bob shared his personal story, illustrating how his early experiences with his mother delivering groceries to those in need shaped his understanding of philanthropy. He emphasized that philanthropy is not merely about money; it is fundamentally about people and the love of mankind. His childhood memories of bringing joy to children in a trailer park left a lasting impression on him, igniting a lifelong commitment to doing good.

As we delved into his new book, Bob explained that it aims to redefine philanthropy by showcasing the stories of individuals who have made significant impacts in their communities. He highlighted that the proceeds from this book will benefit scholarships, reinforcing his belief that philanthropy is about giving back and uplifting others.

Throughout our conversation, Bob recounted various inspiring stories, including his encounter with a baby he found in the snow decades ago, who he later reconnected with after 30 years. He also shared his experiences in Mexico, where he witnessed the transformative power of community initiatives led by families dedicated to improving the lives of others.

We discussed the importance of legacy and how individuals can reflect on their lives and contributions. Bob encourages his students to think about their purpose and the impact they want to leave behind, emphasizing that it’s never too early to consider one’s legacy.

As we wrapped up the episode, Bob left us with a powerful message: to pay attention to the world around us and to seek opportunities to make a difference. He urged listeners to break free from the constraints that hold them back and to embrace the potential for change in their lives and communities.

This episode is not just a celebration of Bob’s work but a call to action for all of us to engage in philanthropy in our own unique ways. I encourage everyone to look out for Philanthropy Understood, set to be released in January 2025, and to reflect on how we can contribute to the greater good in our everyday lives.

Watch the full episode at – https://synervisionleadership.org/2024/11/26/npe-philanthropy-understood/

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Brian Biro, known as America’s Breakthrough Speaker. Brian shared his incredible journey, which spans three distinct careers, including his time as a United States swimming coach and a corporate vice president before he transitioned into professional speaking over 35 years ago. His passion lies in helping individuals and organizations break through barriers and reach their full potential.

We delved into the concept of breakthroughs, which Brian defines as the process of moving from fear to freedom, failure to faith, and good to great. He emphasized that breakthroughs are not just possible but can be planned by focusing on three key controllables: shaping your future, energizing and engaging yourself and your team, and building people, teams, and relationships.

Brian elaborated on the importance of vision, stating that we must see our desired future before we can achieve it. He shared a poignant story about his grandson, Augie, to illustrate how our focus determines our path—whether we fixate on obstacles or envision ways to navigate around them. He also highlighted the significance of using our vision to see what is possible rather than relying on past memories that may limit our perspective.

Energy plays a crucial role in human performance, and Brian discussed how we can elevate our energy through movement, purpose, and the conscious choice to engage positively with others. He shared personal anecdotes, including his relationship with his father, to illustrate how we can reclaim our energy by letting go of negative influences.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Brian introduced his books, including “Beyond Success” and “Lessons from the Legends,” which draw on the wisdom of legendary coaches John Wooden and Pat Summitt. He emphasized that true success is rooted in character and the ability to build meaningful relationships.

In closing, Brian left us with a powerful challenge: to be fully present with those around us, reminding us that our job as leaders is to help others feel important and significant. He encouraged listeners to commit to being more present with two people in their lives for 30 days, fostering deeper connections and understanding.

This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for nonprofit leaders and anyone looking to inspire and empower others. Brian’s energy and passion for helping people break through their limitations are truly infectious, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking personal and professional growth.

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Greg Stewart, a multifaceted leader with a rich background in ministry, counseling, and organizational leadership. We delved into the concept of I3Q, which stands for Information, Interpretation, and Intensity, and how it relates to our inner strength and the management of negative emotions.

Dr. Stewart shared his journey from being called into ministry to becoming a licensed counselor and executive coach. He emphasized the importance of understanding our negative emotions and how they can serve as a source of energy for personal growth and transformation. His new book, “Unlocking the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions,” is a culmination of his experiences and insights over the past decade, particularly following a personal crisis that led him to explore his own emotional landscape.

We discussed the critical need for leaders, especially in the nonprofit sector, to model emotional intelligence and transformational leadership. Dr. Stewart highlighted the balance between grace and truth in leadership, stressing that effective communication requires both empathy and accountability. He provided practical advice on how to navigate difficult conversations and the importance of self-reflection in understanding our emotional responses.

As we wrapped up, Dr. Stewart encouraged listeners to ask themselves, “What is being exposed in me?” when faced with negative emotions. This introspective approach can lead to healing, emotional resilience, and a deeper understanding of oneself.

Overall, this episode is a valuable resource for nonprofit leaders and anyone looking to enhance their emotional intelligence and leadership skills. Dr. Stewart’s insights remind us that our emotional challenges can be transformed into opportunities for growth and connection.

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From Ordinary to Extra Ordinary. Oh yes you can!

In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Pattie Dale Tye, a remarkable individual who has transitioned from a successful corporate career to becoming an author and mentor. We explored the theme of her book, “From Ordinary to Extraordinary,” which emphasizes how anyone can achieve remarkable success through passion, purpose, and preparation.

Pattie shared her inspiring journey, starting from her humble beginnings in a small town in North Florida to holding significant leadership roles in major corporations like AT&T and Humana. She discussed the importance of gratitude and giving back, dedicating her book to her parents and husband, who have been instrumental in her life.

We delved into the challenges leaders face today and the necessity of reconnecting with our core values and principles. Patty highlighted the significance of self-discovery, encouraging listeners to identify their unique strengths and passions. She also emphasized the importance of mentoring others and lifting them as we climb the ladder of success.

Throughout our conversation, Patty provided valuable insights on embracing discomfort, understanding our potential, and the importance of continuous growth. She reminded us that career journeys are marathons, not sprints, and that we should be patient and persistent in our pursuits.

As we wrapped up, Pattie encouraged everyone to believe in themselves and not to be discouraged by the curated images often seen on social media. Her message was clear: if she can achieve extraordinary success, so can anyone else.

Join us for this enlightening discussion that is sure to inspire and motivate you on your own journey from ordinary to extraordinary!

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In this episode of The Nonprofit Exchange, episode 415, I had the pleasure of speaking with Rupal Patel, a former CIA officer turned entrepreneur and leadership consultant. Rupal shared her journey from the high-stakes world of intelligence to becoming a CEO and founder of multiple organizations. Her book, “CIA to CEO,” encapsulates the unconventional life lessons she learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of impactful leadership and mastering the mental aspects of high performance.

Rupal discussed the evolving nature of leadership, highlighting that it is no longer confined to a hierarchical, dictatorial model. Instead, she advocates for a more inclusive approach where leaders can come from various backgrounds and possess diverse traits. She emphasized the significance of humility, self-awareness, and the ability to ask for help, noting that effective leaders do not need to have all the answers.

We explored the concept of building an “ops team”—a curated group of peers and mentors who provide support and feedback in various aspects of life, from business to personal challenges. Rupal also shared her insights on the impact of leadership on organizations, stressing the importance of creating positive work environments and fostering employee well-being.

As we wrapped up the conversation, Rupal encouraged listeners to take actionable steps toward making a difference, no matter how small. She reminded us that while the challenges we face may seem overwhelming, we can all contribute to positive change in our communities.

For more insights and to connect with Rupal, visit her website at entrepreneurora.co. Thank you for joining us on this enlightening episode of The Nonprofit Exchange!

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Fostering Connection: Lead with Bempathy® in a Diverse World

In this episode of The Non-Profit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jill Robin Payne, a seasoned mental health professional with over 40 years of experience. Jill’s expertise centers around fostering connection and leading with empathy in our increasingly diverse world.

We delved into her unique concept of “BEMPATHY,” which she describes as “banter with empathy.” Jill explained how this approach can simplify the complexities of building relationships, especially in a time when many feel disconnected and anxious. She emphasized the importance of understanding that empathy is a mindset and that effective communication requires us to listen actively and engage meaningfully with others.

Jill shared insights from her three books available on Amazon, including her latest work, which encourages readers to look at situations from multiple perspectives. We discussed the significance of language in communication, particularly the impact of words like “but,” which can undermine positive interactions.

Throughout our conversation, Jill highlighted the transformative power of empathy and connection, not just in personal relationships but also in professional settings, including non-profits and leadership roles. She encouraged listeners to take a step back in challenging situations to gain clarity and perspective.

This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone looking to enhance their communication skills and foster deeper connections in both their personal and professional lives. I hope you find Jill’s insights as inspiring and thought-provoking as I did!

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What is Project Management and How Will It Improve Nonprofit’s Effectiveness?

Having a Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification can do many things for leaders of nonprofits. It not only makes you a more efficient employee, it’s going to open up a lot of opportunities. Project management is a growing career industry, particularly in the nonprofit sector, and having a PMP certification shows organizations that you’re capable of effectively managing projects, budgets, and time.

Tamara McLemore, PMP is the founder of Tamara McLemore Enterprises, an executive consultant, a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) Instructor, and a sought-after award-winning speaker. Her expertise lies in coaching mid-career professional women, empowering them with the necessary skills, confidence, and language to obtain their PMP Certification and secure significant career advancements. Through her PMP Exam 2-Week Intensive where she has successfully shortened the traditional preparation timeline, enabling candidates to pass their PMP exam within 30 days (a process that typically takes 6-8 months). This accelerated timeline not only aims to achieve certification but also to position women in the careers they truly deserve. With a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in various industries including technology, federal government, and aviation, Tamara has risen from being a project manager to now serving as the chief impact officer (CIO) of her own company. Tamara’s expertise has been recognized through her appearances as a guest on the Women Of Project Management® and the Harvard Business Review, Women at Work podcasts, and has been a keynote speaker at prestigious events such as the Women of Project Management Conference, AE Ignite conference, and the Wonder Women Tech summit. She is also a LinkedIn Top Voice In Project Management. Additionally, she has shared her knowledge by teaching project management at universities and organizations worldwide, including appearances in India and Dubai. Outside of her professional endeavors, Tamara enjoys traveling extensively and lives by the motto: “To be a Service to All Mankind.”

More about Tamara at – https://iwantmypmp.com/ 

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