Start & Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast

In this inspiring episode, nonprofit coach Tim Needham sits down with Jaime Zayas , founder and Executive Director of Kinetic Tapestry , a faith-based circus and theater company that's redefining what entertainment can look like when it's rooted in purpose. Jaime shares the incredible story of how his love for performance and ministry came together to form Kinetic Tapestry—a nonprofit that brings...

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Erin Wells, Administrative Director for Restoration House STL, to talk about what it looks like to keep your nonprofit organized, efficient, and mission-focused behind the scenes. Erin shares how she stepped into nonprofit administration, the systems that keep Restoration House running smoothly, and how her role supports...

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni are joined by Lilly Blake , Director of Programming for Restoration House STL. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of building strong programming that truly meets the needs of the community. Lilly shares her firsthand experience designing and managing programs for young adults and how she balances structure, flexibi...

In this episode, nonprofit coach and Executive Director Tim Needham sits down with  Dr. David Docusen , author of Neighborhoods & Nations, founder of The Neighborliness Center, and President of International Ministry Network. David's passion is helping leaders bridge divides, foster community, and create practical solutions that meet both spiritual and physical needs. Together, Tim and David dive...

In this episode, Tim sits down with marketing strategist and former missionary Duane Zingale . Duane shares how his journey from the mission field to marketing taught him the importance of storytelling, vision, and building true community around a cause. Here's what we'll cover: Duane's journey from missionary work to marketing expert Why every nonprofit needs a guiding "movement manifest" How sto...

Welcome to Start & Grow: Rewind , where we're bringing back some of our most popular and impactful episodes from the archives. Some conversations change how we think about building meaningful organizations. In this Rewind episode, host Tim Needham sits down with Bob Stergos, co-founder and Executive Director of A Seat at the Table , for one of those transformative discussions. This conversation go...

In this episode, nonprofit coach Tim Needham sits down with Fred Domke, the co-founder and Executive Director of Bridge Bread Bakery in St. Louis, Missouri. Fred shares the powerful story behind how a simple act—baking bread—sparked a sustainable, dignity-driven social enterprise that provides employment and purpose to individuals experiencing homelessness. With transparency and heart, Fred opens...

We're bringing back one of our favorite conversations for this special episode of Start & Grow: Rewind . Whether you're brand new or revisiting your roots, this episode is a must-listen for any nonprofit entrepreneur. In this candid conversation, Mary Valloni sits down with fellow coach and Executive Director Tim Needham. Together, they unpack the foundational steps of starting a nonprofit—from dr...

In this episode, nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni share their proven strategies to help you make the most of year-end fundraising. With decades of experience raising millions for nonprofits, Mary breaks down what it takes to approach this crucial season with clarity, confidence, and creativity. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your nonprofit's impact, this episode...

In the second part of our interview with Greg Stier, we dive deep into the gritty realities of nonprofit sustainability, research-driven pivots, and masterful fundraising principles. Greg shares vulnerable stories from the early struggling days, research that initially devastated him but ultimately transformed their approach, and specific fundraising encounters that demonstrate both the art and he...

In this first part of a compelling two-part interview, coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Greg Stier to explore the origins of Dare2Share Ministries. Greg shares his personal journey from a challenging upbringing to discovering his calling to equip teens to share the gospel. He recounts the transformational impact of his youth pastor's vision and how it inspired Dare2Share's missio...

In this enlightening episode, Tim Needham and Mary Valloni are joined by Josh Roberts of Qashar Ministries to discuss a game-changing approach to donor engagement. Josh shares his insights on donor communication, consistency, and the importance of relationship-building. His strategy has not only increased giving but also deepened connections with donors, turning occasional supporters into lifelong...

In this powerful episode, Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Katie and Rudy Gleason, founders of the nonprofit Because of Kennedy. Their journey began with a devastating loss, but evolved into a mission that has impacted countless lives in Ethiopia. Katie and Rudy share how their daughter Kennedy's legacy inspired them to launch their nonprofit, overcoming unimaginable grief to bring hope...

In this insightful episode, coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Matt Peeples, founder of The Kairos Network, to discuss balancing faith and practicality in nonprofit leadership. Matt shares how his journey of planting churches and launching The Kairos Network taught him the importance of discerning between faith-driven risks and unwise decisions. Through powerful stories and practic...

In this insightful episode, Tim Needham and Mary Valloni explore the importance of having a business plan for your nonprofit. They clarify misconceptions about business plans, differentiate them from strategic plans, and share practical advice for crafting a plan that sets your nonprofit up for success. We'll discuss: What is a Nonprofit Business Plan? Business Plan vs. Strategic Plan The Power of...

In this heartfelt episode, coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni sit down with Emily Needham to discuss a challenge many nonprofit leaders face: what to do when your spouse doesn't share your nonprofit calling. Emily shares her journey of supporting Tim's mission at Restoration House STL, balancing her own passions, and embracing her role outside the nonprofit. Together, they unpack the dynamics of...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, this episode tackles one of the most emotionally charged questions for nonprofit entrepreneurs: Can you take a salary from your nonprofit? Tim and Mary break down the misconceptions, fears, and practical realities of compensating yourself while leading a mission-driven organization. We'll discuss: The emotional challenges of taking a salary...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...

Hosted by nonprofit coaches Tim Needham and Mary Valloni, each episode of the Start and Grow Your Nonprofit Podcast is designed to bring together nonprofit entrepreneurs who have successfully built impactful organizations from the ground up. Join us as we dive into their journeys, share their insights, and learn how to start and grow a strong, sustainable nonprofit that transforms lives, communiti...