10 Nonprofit Leaders You Should Hear on Podcasts

Running a nonprofit isn't for the faint of heart. It requires passion, perseverance, and a whole lot of leadership prowess. But where do you turn for guidance when the challenges stack up and the future seems uncertain? Look no further than the inspirational voices of experienced nonprofit leaders, readily available through the magic of podcasts!

Forget dry textbooks and dusty manuals – these 10 podcast hosts offer real-world wisdom, practical advice, and heartfelt encouragement, all delivered in engaging conversations that will leave you feeling invigorated and ready to tackle any obstacle. Get ready to meet your new mentors:

1. Ai-jen Poo: "The United States of Anxiety": Co-founder of the National Domestic Workers Alliance, Ai-jen shares her unwavering commitment to building power for marginalized communities. Her podcast digs deep into issues like economic inequality, caregiving, and immigration, offering listeners insights on building effective movements and amplifying diverse voices.

2. Derrick Bolton: "Leaders of Change": This podcast from the CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of America is a haven for leadership inspiration. Derrick interviews changemakers across all sectors, from CEOs to activists, exploring topics like organizational development, community engagement, and navigating complex social issues.

3. Vu Le: "Community of Impact": Vu Le, founder of the nonprofit MAP for Better Living, tackles the nitty-gritty of nonprofit operations in her insightful podcast. Tune in for practical tips on fundraising, storytelling, volunteer management, and navigating the ever-changing nonprofit landscape.

4. Beth Kanter and Alice Zepeda: "Nonprofit AF": Get ready for some straight-talking, no-nonsense advice from Beth and Alice! This dynamic duo dives into the joys and frustrations of nonprofit life, covering topics like burnout, board relations, and navigating office politics. They'll make you laugh, learn, and realize you're not alone in the nonprofit craziness.

5. Tim Killeen: "Changemakers": Get inspired by the stories of social entrepreneurs and nonprofit innovators on Tim Killeen's podcast. Through captivating interviews, you'll discover creative solutions to global challenges, learn about building impactful organizations, and find the courage to embrace innovative approaches in your own work.

6. Priya Shah: "Brown Girl Green": Dive into the intersection of environmentalism and social justice with Priya Shah, an influential voice in the eco-justice movement. Her podcast explores topics like climate change, environmental racism, and sustainable development, urging listeners to think critically and take action for a more equitable planet.

7. Daniel Hummer: "Building Thriving Nonprofits": Daniel Hummer, a nonprofit consultant with a wealth of experience, offers practical guidance for strengthening your organization. His podcast delves into topics like financial sustainability, strategic planning, and leadership development, providing actionable steps to build a thriving nonprofit that makes a lasting impact.

8. Jessica Matthews: "Cause & Effect": Passionate about using data for good, Jessica Matthews brings her expertise to this podcast that explores the intersection of technology and social impact. Learn about leveraging data to improve program effectiveness, measure impact, and tell compelling stories that drive change.

9. Cheryl Dorsey: "Connect + Give": This podcast is all about building meaningful connections to amplify your nonprofit's mission. Cheryl Dorsey, a fundraising and philanthropy expert, shares insights on storytelling, donor engagement, and building strategic partnerships to secure the resources you need.

10. Hamid Abdulsamad: "The Purpose Driven Investor": For all the impact investors out there, Hamid Abdulsamad's podcast is a must-listen. He explores the world of social impact investing, highlighting businesses and organizations that are driving positive change alongside financial returns.

These are just a few of the incredible voices sharing their wisdom and experience on the podcast airwaves. So grab your headphones, dive into these inspiring conversations, and let these seasoned leaders guide you on your journey to making a difference in the world. Remember, you're not alone in this – a whole community of nonprofit leaders is cheering you on, one podcast episode at a time.

Bonus Tip: Don't just listen – engage! Follow your favorite podcast hosts on social media, attend their events, and join online communities to connect with other nonprofit professionals and amplify the impact of your collective leadership.

Happy listening and leading!