Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

Rethinking Philanthropy: Women Shaping Global Giving

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Suzanne-Ehlers-959x1024.jpeg]Suzanne Ehlers In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Suzanne Ehlers, Executive Director and CEO of USA for UNHCR (the fundraising partner of the UN Refugee Agency), to explore how women are reshaping philanthropy—and how nonprofits can better design giving models that reflect who is actually driving decisions. Suzanne shares why traditional fundraising approaches often haven’t been built with women at the center, even though women influence the vast majority of giving decisions and are poised to inherit a significant portion of global wealth. (UNHCR [https://www.unrefugees.org/news/women-leaders-unite-to-fund-15m-in-scholarships-for-refugee-education/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]) Suzanne also unpacks USA for UNHCR’s women-led campaign, Building Better Futures, a $15M initiative that supports refugee women through higher-education scholarships via UNHCR’s DAFI program. Together, Rob and Suzanne discuss how relationship-based philanthropy, authentic storytelling, and flexible program delivery can create deeper donor engagement and more durable impact for refugee women and girls. (UNHCR [https://www.unrefugees.org/building-better-futures/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]) Key Topics Include: * Why philanthropy models must evolve to match who drives giving decisions—and why women’s leadership in giving matters * How Building Better Futures centers women “soup to nuts”: donor voice, decision-making, and impact priorities * The power shift from transactional fundraising to relationship-driven philanthropy and shared purpose * How USA for UNHCR is helping sustain and expand the DAFI Scholarship Programme for refugee higher education * Closing the gender gap in refugee education by intentionally prioritizing women scholars * Storytelling that’s “by and for” women—using authentic refugee voices to inspire action * Why flexibility (host-country study, support systems, and virtual options) is essential for education programs in refugee contexts Mentioned in This Episode: * USA for UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency fundraising partner): https://www.unrefugees.org [https://www.unrefugees.org/] * Building Better Futures campaign: https://www.unrefugees.org/building-better-futures/ [https://www.unrefugees.org/building-better-futures/] * UNHCR’s DAFI Tertiary Scholarship Programme: https://www.unhcr.org/us/what-we-do/build-better-futures/education/higher-education-and-skills/dafi-tertiary-scholarship-0 [https://www.unhcr.org/us/what-we-do/build-better-futures/education/higher-education-and-skills/dafi-tertiary-scholarship-0] * Suzanne Ehlers on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-ehlers [https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-ehlers] * Not Really Strangers Podcast https://www.unrefugees.org/not-really-strangers-podcast/ [https://www.unrefugees.org/not-really-strangers-podcast/] (UNHCR [https://www.unrefugees.org/not-really-strangers-podcast/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]) 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 * 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!

This is the Fastest Growing Trend in Fundraising Today

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Mitch-Stein-1024x688.jpeg]Mitch Stein In this timely and data-packed episode, Rob Harter sits down with Mitch Stein, Head of Strategy at Chariot, to unpack one of the most important—and fastest-growing—trends in nonprofit fundraising: Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs). With economic uncertainty, shifting donor behavior, and fewer individuals giving overall, nonprofit leaders must understand how to meet donors where they are. And increasingly, that’s through DAFs. Mitch shares eye-opening statistics, including that nearly 20% of all charitable donations now come from DAFs, totaling $65 billion in grants in 2024 alone. He explains how DAFs work, why donors love them, common misconceptions around payout rates, and—most importantly—how nonprofits can create a clear and effective DAF strategy to increase revenue and donor engagement. If you’re looking to future-proof your fundraising efforts, this is a must-listen episode. Key Topics Include: * The explosive growth of Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), with $326 billion currently held in DAF accounts * Why approximately 1 in 5 charitable dollars now comes from a DAF * How DAFs work and the tax advantages that attract donors * Common misconceptions about DAF payout rates and “hoarding” concerns * The 10x increase in average gift size when donors switch from credit cards to DAFs * Practical steps nonprofits can take to build a DAF strategy * How to leverage DAF Day and integrate DAF messaging into existing fundraising campaigns Mentioned in This Episode: * Chariot [https://www.givechariot.com] 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 * 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!

What Gen Z Can Bring to Your Social Impact Organization

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Tim-Elmore-1024x576.webp]Tim Elmore In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter welcomes Dr. Tim Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders and author of The Future Begins With Z, for a thought-provoking discussion on how nonprofit and social impact organizations can better attract, engage, and retain Generation Z talent. Drawing from decades of experience and recent research with over 2,000 Gen Z individuals, Tim shares surprising insights about Gen Z’s workplace mindset, their desire for purpose-driven work, and how leaders can adapt to unlock the potential of this emerging generation. Tim dispels common myths about Gen Z—including the idea that they lack work ethic—and instead highlights their unique strengths: intuitive tech skills, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial thinking, and a deep passion for social justice. He offers practical, data-backed strategies for nonprofit leaders to become more effective mentors, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and design roles that engage Gen Zers in meaningful ways. If your organization is looking to future-proof its team and mission, this episode is a must-listen. Key Topics Include: * Why Gen Z may be the solution to future challenges—not just another workforce “problem” * The Peter Pan Paradox: how the age of authority is decreasing while the age of maturity rises * Practical tips for recruiting and retaining Gen Z talent, including optimizing your website and onboarding experience * How reverse mentoring can empower Gen Zers and improve your leadership * Creating a “first job” experience that inspires loyalty and learning * Strategies for addressing Gen Z’s mental health needs with empathy and structure * How Gen Z is reshaping views on leadership, feedback, and workplace culture Mentioned in This Episode: * Tim Elmore’s website: TimElmore.com [https://www.timelmore.com/] * The Future Begins With Z (Tim’s latest book) [https://www.timelmore.com/the-future-begins-with-z] This Episode is Sponsored By: * DonorBox.org [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 * 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 We Best Navigate the New Guidelines for Corporate Giving?

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Matt-Nash.jpeg]Matt Nash Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Matt Nash, Executive Director of The https://blackbaudgivingfund.org/Blackbaud Giving Fund, to unpack the recent changes in federal tax law that significantly impact corporate giving. With corporate philanthropy under increased scrutiny and new tax hurdles on the horizon, Matt offers timely insights and actionable advice for nonprofits looking to maintain or grow their corporate donor base. The discussion dives into how the 1% income floor for corporate charitable deductions, taking effect in 2026, might affect corporate giving patterns—particularly for small and mid-sized nonprofits. Matt shares strategies for strengthening corporate relationships, tailoring outreach based on business size, and leveraging tools like AI and workplace giving platforms to better tell your story and attract support. Key Topics Include: * The impact of the new 1% income threshold for corporate tax deductions starting in 2026 * Why brand image and community presence are bigger motivators for corporate giving than tax deductions * How nonprofits can adapt their strategy for small, mid-sized, and large corporations * The importance of storytelling, emotional connection, and measurable impact reporting in donor relations * How to leverage volunteerism and in-kind donations even when corporate cash gifts are cut * Best practices for sustaining and deepening corporate partnerships during policy and funding shifts * Why AI tools and online presence matter more than ever for workplace giving platforms Mentioned in This Episode: * The Blackbaud Giving Fund [https://blackbaudgivingfund.org/] * Matt Nash on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-nash/] * The Blackbaud Giving Fund on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/blackbaudgivingfund], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/blackbaudgivingfund], and LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-blackbaud-giving-fund/] 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 [http://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!

Are You Dreaming Big Enough for Your Organization?

[https://nonprofitleadershippodcast.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Dan-Pallotta-Headshot-2025-1-1-909x1024.jpeg] In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Dan Pallotta—renowned author, TED Talk speaker, and social impact provocateur—to discuss what it really takes to solve the world’s biggest problems. Known for challenging the status quo in the nonprofit sector, Dan pushes listeners to think beyond conventional limitations, urging nonprofit leaders and donors alike to reimagine what’s possible when we truly embrace bold, audacious goals. Dan unpacks his groundbreaking fundraising innovations, including the AIDS Rides and Breast Cancer 3-Day Walks, and dives into key themes from his recent documentary Uncharitable. He emphasizes that nonprofits need to stop playing it safe and start empowering people to explore their own heroism—whether it’s through higher-risk initiatives or rethinking how we define overhead and impact. This episode will inspire you to challenge outdated assumptions and push your organization to dream—and do—bigger. Key Topics Include: * The origin and impact of Dan’s fundraising innovations, including the AIDS Rides and Breast Cancer 3-Day events * Why nonprofits must reframe how they view overhead, salaries, and investments * The danger of playing it safe: how fear of failure stifles nonprofit innovation * Exploring the concept of fundraising as a path to individual heroism * Why bold, time-bound goals are essential for real social impact * The importance of capital investment and risk-taking in the nonprofit sector * Insights from the Uncharitable documentary and how it’s shifting donor mindsets Mentioned in This Episode: * Dan Pallotta’s Website: DanPallotta.com [https://www.danpallotta.com/] * Watch Uncharitable: UncharitableMovie.com [https://www.uncharitablemovie.com/] * The Audacious Project: audaciousproject.org [https://www.audaciousproject.org/] * No Kid Hungry: nokidhungry.org [https://www.nokidhungry.org/] * Social Current: social-current.org [https://www.social-current.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 * 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!