Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

This Leader is Changing the Landscape for Digital Wellness

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Larissa-headshot-scaled-e1762810765204-1024x770.jpg] In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter reconnects with Larz May, founder of the nonprofit Half the Story and the newly launched for-profit social enterprise Ginkgo. Larz returns to the show three years after her initial appearance to share her incredible growth journey—one that has seen her organization gain the backing of influential figures like Oprah Winfrey and Melinda French Gates, and collaborate with foundations and government leaders. Born out of Larz’s personal experience with mental health struggles exacerbated by social media, Half the Story is dedicated to empowering the next generation of digital wellness activists. She shares how her nonprofit has grown, the importance of storytelling, and how she created a sustainable funding model by launching Ginkgo—a HIPAA-compliant digital wellness tool designed to help parents better support their children in the age of AI and constant connectivity. Key Topics Include: * Larz May’s personal story and the founding of Half the Story as a response to digital mental health crises. * The innovative use of storytelling and cultural relevance to grow a nonprofit from the ground up. * How Half the Story scaled through partnerships with organizations like Girls Inc. and support from major philanthropists. * The launch of Ginkgo, a social enterprise designed to help families navigate digital wellness and fund Half the Story. * The evolving role of nonprofits in the AI era and the importance of integrating tech with emotional intelligence. * Practical insights for nonprofit leaders on impact measurement, fundraising strategy, and maintaining a competitive edge. * Larz’s call for changing the capital flow in the nonprofit sector and her vision for supporting future social impact entrepreneurs. Mentioned in This Episode: * Half the Story: https://halfthestoryproject.org [https://www.halfthestoryproject.com/] * Ginkgo: https://www.heyginkgo.com [https://www.heyginkgo.com/] * Girls Inc.: https://girlsinc.org [https://girlsinc.org/] This Episode is Sponsored By: * DonorBox [https://donorbox.org/?kfl_ln=nmu4ndh] Links to Resources: * Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com * Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/@NonprofitLeadershipPodcast] * Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com * Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nonprofit-leadership-podcast/id1102505312], Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/72asKZ21pS2RG8Cn0puXWl], or Amazon [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4dabd6e2-75da-425b-a51f-43a318b29ce2/nonprofit-leadership-podcast]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Is Becoming a Nonprofit the Solution to the Struggles Facing Major News Organizations Today?

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Monika-Bauerlein-683x1024.jpeg]Monika Bauerlein In this compelling episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Dr. Rob Harter sits down with veteran journalist Monika Bauerlein, CEO of the Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR), to explore whether transitioning to a nonprofit model could be the key to survival for today’s embattled media organizations. With a rich background that includes leading the nonprofit news outlet Mother Jones and overseeing its merger with CIR, Monika provides unique insights into the structural challenges and opportunities within modern journalism. Monika discusses the historical context of nonprofit journalism, highlights the advantages of merging nonprofit entities, and outlines practical strategies for how social impact organizations can effectively partner with media outlets. She also dives deep into leadership lessons, fundraising tips, and the importance of storytelling in advocacy. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader or simply concerned about the future of journalism, this episode delivers essential guidance and thought-provoking ideas. Key Topics Include: * The origin and evolution of nonprofit journalism, including the story of Mother Jones’ early challenges with the IRS * Why more media organizations are adopting the nonprofit model in response to collapsing ad revenues and political pressures * Insights from the successful merger of Mother Jones and the Center for Investigative Reporting * Leadership lessons for nonprofit CEOs, including overcoming imposter syndrome and building strong, complementary teams * Strategies for social impact organizations to work with media outlets and tell their stories more effectively * How the CIR is helping other nonprofits with back-end support services through its new initiative, CIR Media Services * The future outlook for journalism and the nonprofit model’s role in preserving investigative reporting Mentioned in This Episode: * Mother Jones [https://www.motherjones.com/] This Episode is Sponsored By: * DonorBox [https://donorbox.org/?kfl_ln=nmu4ndh] Helping you, help others with the best donation forms in the business. Links to Resources: * Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com * Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/@NonprofitLeadershipPodcast] * Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com * Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nonprofit-leadership-podcast/id1102505312], Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/72asKZ21pS2RG8Cn0puXWl], or Amazon [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4dabd6e2-75da-425b-a51f-43a318b29ce2/nonprofit-leadership-podcast]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

Why a Leader’s First 90 Days Set the Tone for Long-Term Success

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Kurt-Mosely-683x1024.jpeg] In this insightful episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Dr. Rob Harter sits down with healthcare leadership experts Kurt Mosley and Neill Marshall to explore why a leader’s first 90 days are pivotal to their long-term success. Drawing from decades of experience interviewing and placing thousands of healthcare executives, Kurt and Neill share powerful stories and actionable strategies that can benefit nonprofit leaders across all sectors. From cultural missteps to missed early wins, the guests reveal that a leader’s early actions—or inactions—can define their credibility, influence, and effectiveness. They also share highlights from their popular “90-Day Series,” which provides a playbook for leaders navigating the critical first months in a new role. This episode is packed with practical wisdom and memorable anecdotes that drive home the importance of intentional leadership during transitions. [https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Neill-Marshall-headshot-1-1024x887.jpg] Key Topics Include: -Why the first 90 days are critical for new leaders in any sector -Common pitfalls like moving too fast or misreading an organization’s culture -How listening and humility establish credibility early on -The role of symbolic actions in building trust and shaping culture -The importance of community engagement and external relationship-building -Advice for boards and search committees on supporting executive transitions -Memorable real-life stories that illustrate what to do—and what not to do Mentioned in This Episode: * HealthSearch Partners [https://healthsearchpartners.com/] * Connect with Kurt Mosley [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-mosley-01893212] and Neill Marshall [https://www.linkedin.com/in/neillmarshall] on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/] This Episode is Sponsored By: * DonorBox [https://donorbox.org/?kfl_ln=nmu4ndh] – Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business Links to Resources: * Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com * Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/@NonprofitLeadershipPodcast] * Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com * Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nonprofit-leadership-podcast/id1102505312], Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/72asKZ21pS2RG8Cn0puXWl], or Amazon [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4dabd6e2-75da-425b-a51f-43a318b29ce2/nonprofit-leadership-podcast]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

How Fundraising Can Be a Bridge-Builder

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Jill-Vorndran.png]Jill Vorndran In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Jill Vorndran, Chief Development Officer at Covenant House International, to explore a transformative approach to fundraising. Jill shares her unique perspective of using fundraising not just as a revenue tool but as a powerful bridge-builder—connecting generations, perspectives, and communities around a shared mission. With more than 20 years of development experience, Jill offers practical strategies and insightful leadership lessons that nonprofit professionals can apply right away. As we head into the critical fourth quarter of the year, Jill and Rob dive into the essential components of successful year-end giving campaigns, how to retain top fundraising talent, and how to ensure every supporter has a positive, seamless giving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned development officer or just starting your nonprofit journey, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to elevate your fundraising game. Key Topics Include: * How fundraising can serve as a unifying force across diverse donor groups * Strategies for supporting CEOs in fundraising through targeted preparation and stewardship * Tips for donor retention and building long-term relationships through meaningful engagement * Building a culture of celebration to retain and motivate development staff * Maximizing year-end giving through monthly gifts, personalized donor calendars, and donor-friendly tech * The importance of hiring smart and building a pipeline of younger fundraisers for long-term success * How to use donor data to drive accountability and refine fundraising strategy Mentioned in This Episode: * Jill Vorndran on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-vorndran] * Learn more about Covenant House: covenanthouse.org [https://www.covenanthouse.org/] This Episode is Sponsored By: * DonorBox [https://donorbox.org/?kfl_ln=nmu4ndh]: Helping you, help others with the best donation forms in the business. Links to Resources: * Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com * Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/@NonprofitLeadershipPodcast] * Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com * Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nonprofit-leadership-podcast/id1102505312], Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/72asKZ21pS2RG8Cn0puXWl], or Amazon [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4dabd6e2-75da-425b-a51f-43a318b29ce2/nonprofit-leadership-podcast]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!

How Can Social Impact Leaders Turn Their Passion for Social Change into Policy Impact?

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Betsy-Cooper.jpeg]Betsy Cooper In this episode, host Rob Harter talks with Betsy Cooper of the Aspen Policy Academy / Aspen Institute about how nonprofit and social impact leaders can channel their passion for social change into tangible policy influence. They explore the balance between advocacy and legal constraints for nonprofits, the six‑step process for developing policy influence, and real examples of how ideas become implemented policy. They also dive into the skills, tools, and strategies needed to make lasting change, including how AI is beginning to intersect with civic engagement and government. Betsy shares frameworks that help translate mission-driven ideas into practical policy proposals, stakeholder strategies, communication approaches, and implementation plans. The conversation is rich with concrete advice for practitioners who want to move beyond service to shape the rules that influence systems. Key Topics Include: The six‑step policy impact process: defining, researching, solution design, stakeholder mapping, advocacy, execution Guardrails and legal constraints for nonprofit advocacy, and how to engage responsibly The role of tools like policy memos, briefs, redlined texts, and operational plans in influencing decision‑makers Core skills for change makers: strategy, communication, stakeholder mapping Integrating policy engagement into social innovation and how it often becomes the missing lever Examples of successful transitions from idea to policy (e.g. Aspen fellows influencing Utah’s data center water usage rules) Emerging intersections of AI with government, public policy, and nonprofit advocacy Mentioned in This Episode: * Aspen Policy Academy [https://aspenpolicyacademy.org/] * Boulder Advocacy [https://afj.org/bolder-advocacy/] * Rising Civic AI Leaders [https://www.aspendigital.org/project/rising-civic-ai-leaders/] * Aspen Tech Policy Hub [https://www.aspentechpolicyhub.org/] This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox [https://donorbox.org/?kfl_ln=nmu4ndh]: [https://www.donorbox.org/]Helping you help others, with the best donation forms in the business. Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/@NonprofitLeadershipPodcast] Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nonprofit-leadership-podcast/id1102505312], Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/72asKZ21pS2RG8Cn0puXWl], or Amazon [https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/4dabd6e2-75da-425b-a51f-43a318b29ce2/nonprofit-leadership-podcast]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!