The Nonprofit Leadership Podcast discusses important issues facing nonprofit leaders in our community and features real stories from real leaders about what strategies and practices have made them successful. Enjoy the show!
Why Charity Navigator Is Seeking to Help All People Give Smarter
Mar 01, 2026
Show notesMichael Thatcher
In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Michael Thatcher, CEO of Charity Navigator, to explore how the nation’s largest independent charity evaluator is evolving to better serve donors and nonprofits alike. With over a decade at the helm, Michael shares how his background in technology and impact measurement has shaped Charity Navigator’s shift toward a more comprehensive, 360-degree view of nonprofit effectiveness.
From financial transparency and governance best practices to measuring real impact and rebuilding trust in the nonprofit sector, this conversation dives deep into how data-informed giving can strengthen both donor confidence and organizational performance. Whether you’re a nonprofit executive striving for a higher rating or a donor seeking to invest in meaningful change, this episode provides practical insights to help you give—and lead—smarter.
Key Topics Include:
The mission of Charity Navigator and how it has expanded to rate over 250,000 nonprofits
Why overhead is not a proxy for impact—and how to think beyond simple financial ratios
Best practices for improving your nonprofit’s rating, including governance, transparency, and data submission
How Charity Navigator’s new 360-degree rating system evaluates organizational health and impact
The importance of transparency, independent boards, and posting your IRS Form 990
Why donors should think of their giving as an investment in impact, not just a charitable transaction
Addressing declining trust in the nonprofit sector and the role of third-party evaluators in rebuilding confidence
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
Rethinking Philanthropy: Women Shaping Global Giving
Feb 22, 2026
Show notesSuzanne 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)
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)
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
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
This is the Fastest Growing Trend in Fundraising Today
Feb 15, 2026
Show notesMitch 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
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
What Gen Z Can Bring to Your Social Impact Organization
Feb 08, 2026
Show notesTim 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
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
How Can We Best Navigate the New Guidelines for Corporate Giving?
Feb 01, 2026
Show notesMatt Nash
Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Matt Nash, Executive Director of The 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
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
Are You Dreaming Big Enough for Your Organization?
Jan 25, 2026
Show notes
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
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
Fundraising Trends You Need to Know for 2026
Jan 18, 2026
Show notesJulia Campbell
In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter is joined by Julia Campbell, a renowned nonprofit strategist and host of the Nonprofit Nation podcast. With over 20 years in the field, Julia shares the latest data-backed fundraising trends shaping 2026 and what nonprofits can do to thrive amidst economic shifts and evolving donor expectations.
Julia emphasizes the growing importance of recurring giving programs, the need for intentional donor communication, and why many nonprofits are leaving billions on the table. She also dives into the impact of generational wealth transfer, how AI and technology can support donor engagement, and how storytelling—not just data—can move donors to action. Tune in to learn innovative approaches, digital strategies, and the mindset shifts nonprofit leaders need to succeed in today’s changing landscape.
Key Topics Include:
Why recurring giving is essential in a subscription-based world
How nonprofits are unintentionally losing out on $52 billion in potential donations
The myth of donor fatigue—and what donors are really tired of
Storytelling strategies that drive donor engagement and retention
Effective use of AI for content repurposing and personalized communication
Innovative fundraising tactics using SMS, Facebook DMs, and short-form video
How to connect with Gen Z and millennial donors through mission-focused social content
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
Rules of the Road for Social Impact Organizations
Jan 11, 2026
Show notesBetsy Schmidt
In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter sits down with Elizabeth “Betsy” Schmidt, senior research fellow at the University of Massachusetts and author of the new book Rules of the Road for Nonprofit Leaders. Betsy brings her decades of experience in public policy and nonprofit law to the table to demystify complex legal frameworks and help leaders leverage the law to support their mission.
Together, Rob and Betsy explore the often misunderstood legal and ethical responsibilities of nonprofit leaders. From navigating political activity and advocacy to understanding the distinctions between 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, this episode offers practical and empowering guidance for social impact organizations seeking to remain compliant and mission-focused in an evolving landscape.
Key Topics Include:
The difference between 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations, and when to consider forming a C4
Legal boundaries for nonprofit advocacy, lobbying, and political activity
How staying true to your mission often ensures legal compliance
Best practices for nonprofit governance, financial oversight, and ethics
How federal and state-level regulations are shifting and what to watch for in 2026
Common legal pitfalls nonprofits face and how to avoid them
Resources and tools for staying up to date with nonprofit law
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
How One Organization is Greatly Improving the Care for Individuals with Disabilities
Jan 04, 2026
Show notes
Rob speaks with Robert Stack, President and CEO of Community Options, a nonprofit that has been at the forefront of providing safe, dignified, and inclusive care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Stack shares his personal journey that led him into this field, beginning with volunteering as a young seminarian and evolving into decades of nonprofit leadership.
Robert offers eye-opening insights into the challenges and injustices still facing the disability care sector—from exploitative practices by private equity firms to deeply flawed state-run institutions. He also outlines Community Options’ impactful approach: prioritizing person-centered care, scaling nonprofit services responsibly, and advocating for inclusive employment that uplifts people with disabilities. His book, Silent No Longer, is a call to action for society to demand dignity and rights for all individuals, regardless of ability.
Key Topics Include:
The negative impact of private equity investment in disability care services
How state-run institutions often prioritize employment over quality care
The injustice of sub-minimum wages and legal aversion therapies still used in some states
The importance of inclusive employment and its social benefits for individuals with disabilities
Community Options’ approach to personalized care and their growth across 12 states
Why mentorship and dignity-driven programming lead to better outcomes
What Robert Stack hopes readers take away from his book Silent No Longer
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
The Power of Grit and Positivity
Dec 28, 2025
Show notesLaura Parker
In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Laura Parker, CEO and co-founder of The Exodus Road, a nonprofit combating human trafficking across the globe. Laura shares the deeply personal and powerful story of how she and her husband were first confronted with the realities of trafficking while working in Northern Thailand, which ultimately inspired them to launch their organization. With operations now spanning four countries, The Exodus Road works alongside law enforcement and communities to prevent exploitation, rescue victims, and support survivor aftercare.
Laura discusses the leadership principles and cultural values that have fueled the growth and resilience of her organization, including grit, empathy, excellence, and collaboration. She also emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and supportive workplace culture in an industry often mired in darkness.
Key Topics Include:
The origin story of The Exodus Road and its mission to fight human trafficking
How grit and persistence have been key to the organization’s impact and longevity
Laura’s collaborative yet decisive leadership style as a “reluctant CEO”
The critical role of workplace culture, communication, and survivor-centered storytelling
Strategies for balancing international work with U.S.-based initiatives
Embracing partnerships and an abundance mindset to expand limited nonprofit resources
The launch of Influenced, a U.S. program focused on digital safety and prevention for teens
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, Spotify, or Amazon. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
Stay Connected
