Agents of Nonprofit

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Billy Starr, the visionary founder of the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC). Billy shares his heartfelt journey from personal loss to creating one of the most successful cancer fundraising events in history. Discover how a small bike-a-thon with 36 participants evolved into a monumental event with over 6,000 riders and $1 billion raised for cancer res...

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," I sit down with Alejandro Mayoral to explore the intersection of technology, nonprofit work, and indigenous empowerment. Alejandro shares his journey from computer science student to nonprofit founder, discussing the grassroots approach to co-creating projects with indigenous communities in Mexico and Canada. Together, we explore the challenges a...

In this captivating episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I invite Jeremy Stern to unravel the secrets behind transforming nonprofit fundraising through innovative business strategies. From personal anecdotes to practical insights, this episode is a must-listen for nonprofit professionals seeking to elevate their fundraising efforts and make a lasting difference in their communities. Topics We Cover: Fr...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I engage in a thought-provoking conversation with executive coach Jenny Mitchell. They delve into the realm of mindset in the nonprofit sector, exploring how shifting from scarcity to abundance can fuel personal and organizational growth. From neuroscience to negotiation strategies, they uncover practical insights for navigating challenges and fostering mean...

Today we dive into the world of prospect research in the nonprofit sector with special guest Mark Egge. From unexpected beginnings at the Indiana University Foundation to the intricacies of deciphering donor behavior, this episode explores the fusion of data-driven insights and human intuition in fundraising strategies. Topics We Cover: Mark shares their unconventional path from music to research,...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with nonprofit expert Anna Taylor to explore the intricacies of capacity building within the nonprofit sector. Drawing from seven years of experience in nonprofit capacity planning, Anna shares valuable insights and practical advice for nonprofit professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of organizational growth. Topics We Cover: The worl...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Rashaunda Williams, founder of Collective Impact, to explore the challenges and solutions facing BIPOC-led social impact organizations. From grassroots origins to the self-funding dilemma, Rashaunda shares insights into building sustainable nonprofits while advancing community missions. Topics We Cover: Rashaunda's journey and the genesi...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Mike Prosserman to discuss the intricacies of succession planning within nonprofit organizations. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, Mike sheds light on the importance of proactive planning, board involvement, and maintaining trust and communication throughout the succession process. Topics We Cover: Mike's  jou...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Kristie Magee Porcaro from Operation Smile to unravel the organization's extraordinary journey from a humble medical mission to a global humanitarian powerhouse. Christy sheds light on Operation Smile's founding principles, innovative strategies, and impactful collaborations, offering insights into the future of global healthcare. T...

Join host me in a captivating conversation with Diana Coyle, executive director of a small community-based nonprofit, as we explore the abstract nature and philosophy of nonprofits. From superhero origin stories to collaborative efforts blurring sector boundaries, this episode goes into the dynamic landscape of nonprofit work and its transformative impact on individuals and communities. Topics We...

Today we get into the dynamic world of nonprofit technology with special guest Paul Morris. In this episode, we explore the pivotal role of technology in empowering nonprofits to scale, innovate, and better serve their communities. From navigating the abundance of choices to embracing a growth mindset, discover how nonprofits can leverage technology as a strategic investment for long-term success....

Join us in an enlightening conversation with Sarah Lange, a trailblazer in the philanthropic world, on this episode of Agents of Nonprofit. Sarah shares her journey from childhood activism to empowering nonprofits with effective fundraising strategies. Discover her revolutionary approach to philanthropy and how it's reshaping the nonprofit landscape. Topics We Cover: Sarah's childhood in...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we welcome guest Lou Adducci to explore the untapped potential of micro communities and influencers within the nonprofit sector. Lou shares the journey from the nonprofit arts world to tech and back again, offering valuable insights into effectively engaging with diverse online communities for fundraising and advocacy. Topics We Cover Defining micro communit...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with nonprofit veteran Amber Wynn to explore the strategic journey of launching and maintaining a successful nonprofit organization. From debunking misconceptions to laying the groundwork for sustainable impact, this conversation offers practical insights for aspiring nonprofit founders. Topics We Cover: Amber's unconventional entry into the...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I have a compelling dialogue with Elizabeth Scott, President of the Junior League of Indianapolis. Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey from a corporate career to becoming a driving force within the league, emphasizing its mission to train women leaders while serving vulnerable communities. Together, we explore the league's extensive history, impactfu...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Sara Hoshooley, the visionary behind Connect for Good, a groundbreaking platform reshaping the Canadian nonprofit landscape. From her unexpected entry into the sector during the 2008 financial crisis to her passion for bridging the resource gap, Sara shares insights into her journey and the mission driving Connect for Good. Topics We Cover: S...

In this landmark 100th episode, host Alexander Lapa sits down with renowned entrepreneur and author Seth Godin to discuss his latest book, "The Song of Significance: A New Manifesto for Teams" However, the conversation quickly expands to explore the broader landscape of work, particularly within the nonprofit sector. Seth challenges conventional notions of organizational culture and emph...

Join us in this episode of Agents of Nonprofit as we sit down with Jennifer Drago, a seasoned expert in the nonprofit sector. Uncover the superhero origin story of Jennifer's journey from pre-med to leading in the nonprofit world.  Explore the intriguing concept of nonprofit life cycles, where they discuss key stages, diagnostic tools, and the pivotal transition from startup to sustainable gr...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, your host Alexander Lapa dives deep into the world of The Nonprofit Hive, a groundbreaking community facilitating impactful connections within the nonprofit sector. Joined by industry veterans Tasha Van Vlack and Dave Norris, the trio explores the origins, mechanics, and heartwarming success stories of this game-changing platform. Topics We Cover: The birth...

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit," we sit down with Elenoa Fuka, a key player in the Science Philanthropy Alliance (S.P.A.), for an eye-opening discussion. Elenoa shares her unconventional path from government service, through tech, to a pivotal role in the nonprofit sector. Topics We Cover: The genesis of the Science Philanthropy Alliance, born out of a need to counter declining...

In this episode of "Agents of Nonprofit" we sit down with Rachel Bearbrower to unravel the intricacies of systems and time management for nonprofits. Rachel, with her extensive background as an executive director and a mentor for small shop executives, shares invaluable insights into optimizing operations. From her accidental entry into the nonprofit realm to teaching stewardship and ret...

Join me in a captivating conversation with the superhero of interactive media, Renee Mancino, as they unravel the mysteries of Request for Proposal (RFP) responses in the nonprofit realm. From superhero origins to battling the nuances of RFI, RFQ, and RFP, this episode is your guide to navigating the nonprofit proposal universe. Topics We Cover: Renee Mancino's journey from a family business...

Welcome to a special holiday episode of Agents of Nonprofit! I sit down with a true superhero, my dad, George Lapa. Join the heartwarming conversation as George shares his unique life story, from escaping war-torn Latvia to a career shift from engineering to a fulfilling retirement as a tech-savvy volunteer. Join this festive episode for a delightful blend of family anecdotes, tech tales, and the...

Today we're joined by Derek Kessen for an insightful exploration into the world of building thriving teams and making impactful decisions in the nonprofit landscape. Delve into Derek's journey from financial markets to the nonprofit world, driven by a mission to infuse business acumen into the heart of nonprofits. Explore a four-pillar formula for long-term organizational success and unc...

In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, we have a captivating conversation with Lindsay McGuire, a seasoned board member with a passion for diverse causes. We unravel the world of board membership, its profound impact on personal growth, and it's significance in the nonprofit sector. Lindsay shares her journey from a local food bank intern to contributing to boards like Make-A-Wish and Junior...