Next Era Non-Profit

Board Meeting Agendas That Build Engagement

One of the biggest problems facing nonprofit boards today is disengaged board meetings that feel like a waste of time to board members. Join us for this week's episode where we will break down why boards are increasingly disengaged and what you can do to change that! With my proven ENGAGE Method we will transform board meetings into your strongest tool for leadership, clarity, and energy. If you have any questions surrounding board engagement or are interested in an in-depth program walking you through building better board practices, reach out at katie@joyofleading.com!

Back to Basics: Focusing on Your Core

In this week's episode, we are joined by Dr. Russell Wigginton, CEO of the National Civil Rights Museum, to explore how nonprofit leaders can cut through the noise and lead with clarity, courage, and conviction by getting back to basics. Drawing on his years of experience in academia, advocacy, and the museum world, Dr. Wigginton brings a unique perspective to our conversation as he speaks to how this approach has impacted his decision-making, team-building, and even the approach he takes to larger issues.

The Magic is in the Work You're Avoiding

What if the task you keep avoiding isn't a burden, but a doorway to clarity and freedom? In this week's episode of Next Era Nonprofit, we're going to liberate you from what's holding you back by addressing the things we've been avoiding. And, in doing so, we will open up the space, time, energy, and possibility to accomplish the goals we have set. I share the Face It. Feel It. Free It. method to help you take action on that lingering task that’s draining your energy and slowing your momentum. Whether you're avoiding a tough board conversation, a strategic decision, or just that pesky email, this episode is a nudge to do the thing — and feel the relief that follows.

The Art of Unlearning: Rethinking Nonprofit Leadership

What do nonprofit leaders need to unlearn to move forward? In this lively and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Ruth Abigail Gardner—Executive Director of AngelStreet Ministries and host of The Unlearnt Podcast—to dig into the habits, beliefs, and expectations that no longer serve us (and maybe never did). We talk about the obvious stuff (like perfectionism and over-functioning), but we also get into some trickier, more taboo territory. It’s a fun, honest conversation full of real talk about what it actually takes to lead well in today’s nonprofit world—and what we might need to let go of to do it. Ruth Abigail brings energy, wisdom, and humor, and she isn’t afraid to think out loud about her own leadership journey and the sector as a whole. You’ll walk away reflecting on your own “unlearning list.” To hear more from Ruth Abigail Gardner, listen to the Unlearnt Podcast [https://www.theunlearntpodcast.com/]! And also, check out the work that Angel Street does by visiting their site [https://www.angelstreetmemphis.com/] or on social media @angelstreetmemphis!

Managing Stress by Managing Demands

You’ve probably felt it: the stress of leading a nonprofit where the demands far outweigh the resources. It’s not just frustrating—it’s unsustainable. In this episode, I unpack a powerful definition of stress—“more demands than resources”—and walk you through a 5-step approach to rebalance the equation. We’ll explore how to set boundaries, shift expectations, and reduce the weight of competing priorities so you can lead with clarity and protect your energy. Not every idea or every donation deserves a place on your to-do list. ✨ Ready to reduce the demands and focus your time, energy, and budget on what truly drives impact? That’s exactly what I do with leaders during a Strategic Refresh Intensive—a one-day deep dive to create a clear, adaptive plan for the year ahead. You’ll walk away with a roadmap that ensures your resources go where they matter most. 📩 Email me at katie@ziplineconsulting.com when you’re ready to balance the equation. You don’t need a 6-month planning process—just one powerful day.