In this episode of I 501(c) You - The Podcast for Nonprofit Board Members, Brena Slater, President and CEO of Safe Children’s Coalition, shares powerful insights on leading a complex nonprofit through growth, crisis, and a major capital campaign. From navigating the transition from COO to CEO during COVID-19 to building deep community trust and launching a $9 million shelter project, Brena offers real-world leadership lessons for nonprofit executives, board members, and changemakers alike. Tune in to learn how she leverages strong board engagement, transparent communication, and a strategic fundraising partnership to make a lasting impact on children and families in need. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Brena Slater, President & CEO of Safe Children Coalition (01:45) Size of Safe Children Coalition (03:25) What is your leadership philosophy? (04:50) Data Driven Organization (06:00) How do you work with your board? (08:45) Board members on committees first (10:30) Impact of Boardable (12:10) How do you approach working with staff? (14:15) Adjusting from doing the work to managing the work? (16:05) Starting a capital campaign (21:45) Time management (23:10) As CEO, what keeps you up at night? (25:32) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

Discover what it truly means to lead with heart in this inspiring episode featuring Veronica Thames, CEO of the Manatee Community Foundation. From aligning mission and team culture to navigating board relationships and embracing authentic leadership, Veronica shares powerful insights every nonprofit executive, board member, and aspiring changemaker needs to hear. Learn how intentional leadership, continuous listening, and redefining philanthropy as character—not wealth—can transform your impact. If you're in the nonprofit sector or curious about effective community leadership, this episode is a must-listen. Visit https://manateecf.org/ for more information about Manatee Community Foundation Timestamps (00:00) Introducing Veronica Thames, CEO of Manatee Community Foundation (03:30) Why did you choose to go into philanthropy? (08:00) How did you approach your first months on the job? (13:15) How do you view culture and tips for growing culture (20:10) How do you interact with board members? (23:45) Balancing being ‘liked’ versus ‘respected’ as a leader (27:10) Advice for those considering getting into philanthropy Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Stacy Groff, Vice President of Care & Connection at Empath Health, to uncover the true impact of volunteer programs — and how they drive millions in value while strengthening communities. Stacy shares actionable insights on recruiting the right volunteers, integrating them fully into organizational culture, and adapting volunteer strategies for lasting success. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, board member, or volunteer coordinator, you’ll learn why volunteer engagement is crucial for organizational growth and how small gestures of appreciation can lead to big results. Tune in for expert advice, real-world examples, and a heartfelt reminder of the power of saying "thank you." Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Stacy Groff, Vice President of Care & Connection, Empath Health (02:00) What is the breadth of the volunteer program? (03:10) What drew Stacy to working with volunteers? (04:30) Managing a massive volunteer program (07:40) Using volunteer’s skills (10:05) What should the board understand about volunteers? (13:20) Pitfalls to avoid (17:40) Thank you volunteers (18:40) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

Discover why personal branding matters for nonprofit leaders in this insightful conversation with Robyn. From her journey of self-awareness to how CEOs and board members can align leadership perception with organizational success, Robyn shares actionable strategies for building an authentic and effective presence. Learn how board members can assess their CEO’s brand, the impact of leadership energy on teams, and why bold expectations can transform the people you serve. Plus, take the free Spark Plug Profile assessment to better understand team dynamics. Tune in for a compelling discussion on leadership, branding, and making a lasting impact in the nonprofit world! Results 1st Website Sparkplug Profile Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Robyn Faucy, CEO and Co-Founder of Results 1st (02:00) What does Results 1st do? (04:00) How did you get started with Results 1st? (06:10) Personal Branding (08:30) How do you identify your personal brand? (12:10) Why is personal branding important for nonprofit leadership? (16:00) What do people think when you walk in a room? (18:10) What is the board’s role? (21:00) Sparkplug profile  (23:00) Final advice for CEOs and Executive Directors (25:00) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

Discover why advocacy is essential for every nonprofit in this insightful conversation with Sabeen Perwaiz, President & CEO of the Florida Nonprofit Alliance. Learn how board members and executive directors can navigate policy, engage with legislators, and shape the future of their organizations—without fear. Sabeen shares practical strategies for setting a policy agenda, building relationships with elected officials, and effectively telling your nonprofit’s story. Whether you're new to advocacy or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help your nonprofit amplify its impact. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Sabeen Perwaiz, CEO of Florida Nonprofit Alliance (02:25) What is the purpose of the Florida Nonprofit Alliance? (04:05) Why is “Advocacy” a threatening word? (06:00) How would you define “advocacy”? (07:50) How can nonprofits advocate? (09:50) What are board members missing about advocacy? (11:30) Advocacy is not a short term game (14:05) What can organizations do to start advocating? (16:00) What resources are available? (18:00) Should any organization avoid advocating? (19:10) Visiting State Legislators (22:20) Final advice (23:45) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

Thinking about starting a podcast? This episode is packed with insights to help you launch and grow with confidence! We share the lessons learned from over 100 episodes, including why your first recordings may be your toughest, how consistency builds a loyal audience, and why podcasting is an incredible tool for brand awareness and credibility. You'll also learn how to repurpose content, engage listeners, and set realistic expectations for growth and monetization. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, or expert looking to share your message, this episode will inspire you to take the leap and start podcasting today! Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Read Corley, Producer of I501(c)You (01:45) Why should nonprofits consider podcasting? (02:30) Repurposing the podcast (04:00) What is a short form video and why make them? (06:50) What should people be aware of before starting a podcast? (09:00) Pre Podcast Prep (09:55) The software and equipment we use (11:55) Sharing your message (13:35) Interview style versus solo podcast (14:40) What else should you know about podcasting? Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

Discover how Rebecca Fishman Lipsey, President & CEO of The Miami Foundation, strategically engages her board, streamlines governance, and leads a $600 million community-driven financial institution. In this episode, she reveals why fewer board meetings can lead to greater impact, how the organization identifies future board chairs, and the biggest mistake nonprofit leaders make when working with their boards. If you're a nonprofit executive, board member, or anyone curious about high-level leadership, you won’t want to miss Rebecca’s insights on building trust, driving strategy, and maximizing board effectiveness. Tune in to learn what she wishes she had known when she first stepped into leadership. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Rebecca Fishman Lipsey, President & CEO of The Miami Foundation (03:00) What does a CEO need from their board? (04:50) How did you evaluate your board and determine what you need? (07:05) Getting your board members to contribute (09:00) Are you always recruiting board members? (10:15) Keeping the board from doing “too much”. Too much of what? (12:05) What does a CEO need from a board chair? (13:35) CEOs role in navigating the selection of the board chair (15:20) How do you structure communication with the board and board chair? (18:00) Different responsibilities for Community Foundation board members (21:00) How do you determine your strategy and communication for that strategy (23:10) Advice to new CEOs (25:30) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

How do you evolve a nonprofit board from social gatherings to a forward-thinking strategic powerhouse? In this episode of I 501(c) You, we sit down with Doug Staley, Executive Director of the Child Protection Center, to discuss his organization’s remarkable transformation from facing financial uncertainty to becoming a thriving, respected nonprofit. Doug shares practical insights on strategic planning, board development, and the long-term vision that allowed CPC to navigate facility challenges, secure funding, and strengthen community impact. Whether you're a nonprofit leader or board member, this masterclass on building a future-focused board will inspire you to lead with strategy and resilience. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Doug Staley, Executive Director of Child Protection Center (03:40) As a new Executive Director, what was your biggest challenge? (07:00) Initial mistakes (09:00) The need to look “big picture” as a small organization and thinking strategically (12:40) Evolving a board from a social board to a strategic board (16:00) Tying everything back to strategy, taking a road trip, and start planning early (22:35) How do you interact with board members and the board chair? (26:10) How has your role as Executive Director evolved? (28:40) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Hannah and Kristen from Core Leadership Coaching to explore how their transformational leadership program is equipping leaders with the skills they need to build collaborative teams, think strategically, and lead with confidence. We discuss the importance of positive psychology, navigating big visions with realistic plans, and the power of leadership development in retaining top talent. Whether you’re an executive, a manager, or simply someone looking to grow your leadership abilities, this conversation is packed with insights to help you lead with intention and impact. Applications for the Core Leadership Program are now open through early March. Learn more at coreleadershipcoaching.com. Key Takeaways: Leaders are developed through intentional practice. Positive psychology can shape a brighter future. Focus on controlling what you can control. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Kristen Lessig-Schenerlein MAPP, PCC and Hannah McGowan, Ed.M., C.A.S. (04:30) What is the CORE program? (06:30) What is positive psychology? (08:10) Coaching versus consulting approach (09:30) Who should attend the CORE program? (10:55) Nonprofit and for-profit leaders in the program (12:30) Why should nonprofits invest in leadership development? (13:30) What can leaders do to “de-stress?” (15:20) What can people expect from the CORE Program? (17:30) Find out more about the CORE Program (18:15) When is registration? (19:10) Last words (21:40) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode of I 501(c) You, we dive into the world of grant writing with Jordan Curry, founder of Captured Words Grant Consulting. Jordan shares expert insights on what board members and nonprofit leaders need to know about securing funding, from building strong relationships with funders to crafting competitive grant applications. We also explore how AI is changing the grant writing landscape and what nonprofits can do to stay ahead.  Tune in to learn: Why relationships with funders matter more than you think Common mistakes nonprofits make in grant applications How AI is shaping the future of grant writing   Need a winning grant strategy? Email Jordan at jordan.capturedwords@gmail.com Jordan’s Linkedin Jordan’s Website Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Jordan Curry, Founder of Captured Words Grant Consulting (02:15) How did you learn to write grants? (03:15) What do board members need to know about the grant process? (04:30) Challenges in securing a grant (06:30) How do you know what grants are available? (07:20) Creating a funding strategy (09:30) Different types of grants (12:20) Where does your consulting start and end? (13:00) Federal grants (13:45) When does a client come to you? (15:10) Importance of a relationship with the funder (16:30) Who typically contacts you? (18:00) How is AI going to impact grantwriting? Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode of I501(c)You, we sit down with Isabel Garcia, Executive Director of the Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA), to explore her leadership journey and the organization’s deep-rooted impact on communities across Florida. Isabel shares how RCMA stays connected across its 65+ centers, the critical role of strong communication within large organizations, and the importance of community partnerships in supporting children and families. She reflects on the challenges of maintaining work-life balance as a CEO, the evolving nature of her leadership role, and the personal drive that keeps her inspired. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, board member, or someone passionate about community engagement, this episode offers valuable insights into effective leadership and organizational impact. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Isabel Garcia, Executive Director of RCMA (02:35) Share with us the scope of RCMA (05:50) How is your board of directors set up? (10:45) Are there unique aspects of getting federal funding the board should be aware of? (12:30) Challenges as the CEO (15:00) Structuring your leadership team (17:30) Ensuring strong communication (19:30) How do you engage in the communities? (23:00) What do you miss most? (24:35) Advice to your beneficiaries (25:17) Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode, we’re joined by Sara Leonard, an experienced nonprofit consultant and founder of the Sara Leonard Group. Sara shares her expertise on what it takes to build a strong culture of philanthropy within organizations. From training board members and executive directors to running successful capital campaigns, Sara dives into the strategies that drive fundraising success. We discuss the importance of preparing for campaigns the right way, the nuances of naming opportunities, and how clear policies can prevent future donor challenges. Plus, Sara explains why fundraising isn’t about guilt—it’s about creating meaningful connections. Whether you’re a board member, nonprofit leader, or just curious about the world of fundraising, this episode is packed with practical advice and memorable stories (like why Sara once took a photo in a bathroom at the Georgia Aquarium!). Sara’s Website Sara’s Linkedin Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Sara Leonard, Sara Leonard Group (02:35) Types of fundraising (06:05) What conditions must exist for a nonprofit to be successful at fundraising? (08:00) Board’s role in fundraising and common misunderstandings (11:00) How long does it take to develop a culture of philanthropy? (14:00) Dynamics between Executive Directors and Development staff (16:00) When do people bring Sara in to consult? (19:00) Strategy behind naming opportunities (24:30) Recapping with Read

In this episode, we have an engaging conversation with Liz Wooten, CEO of Connect for More. Liz is a consultant and facilitator specializing in leadership development, nonprofit governance, and strategic planning. Liz delves into the importance of emotional literacy, empathy, and curiosity as essential skills for modern leaders.  Liz also shares insights into hiring and team dynamics, highlighting the value of self-awareness and understanding individual motivations. She discusses how leaders can align personal goals with organizational missions to drive engagement and long-term success. Drawing from her extensive experience, Liz illustrates the evolving nature of leadership—shifting from command-and-control styles to approaches rooted in authenticity, transparency, and meeting people where they are. Looking ahead, Liz reveals her focus for 2025, which includes expanding her coaching practice, facilitating strategic planning for nonprofits and small businesses, and branching into the corporate sector. She also shares her excitement about her forthcoming book, Managing Courageously: Managing from the Middle Office, a guide to navigating the complexities of managing in all directions within an organization. Whether you’re in the nonprofit or corporate world, Liz’s perspectives on servant leadership and fostering purpose-driven workplaces provide valuable takeaways. To learn more, connect with Liz on LinkedIn. Timestamps: (00:00) Shoutout Alma! (00:20) Introducing Liz Wooten (02:35) Helping leaders focus on impact, strategy and vision (06:00) Do board chairs or CEO’s reach out to you? (07:30) What is Co-op-itition? (11:30) Talk about “Heart work” (13:30) How do you balance transparency and vulnerability? (17:10) Can leaders implement these characteristics? (20:30) Can you identify people with these characteristics ahead of time? (21:30) What are you working on in 2025? (26:50) Recapping with Read

In this week’s episode of I 501(c) You: The Podcast for Nonprofit Board Members, we’re kicking off a special four-part series featuring nonprofit consultants. This series is designed to give board members an inside look at the expertise consultants bring to the table and how their insights can strengthen organizations. Our first guest is Randy Scheid, founder of RGS Partners Consulting. Randy’s impressive career journey spans his time in the Peace Corps, his work with nonprofits, and his leadership as Chief Strategy Officer for the Quantum Foundation. He shares his path into consulting, offering valuable lessons on philanthropy, board governance, and the critical role of succession planning. Randy and host Michael explore what makes an effective board member, the importance of long-term thinking for organizational sustainability, and how to approach leadership development. They also dive into how boards should evaluate new programs and balance strategic priorities without overwhelming their organizations. Randy’s Linkedin Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing our Consultant Series  (00:30) Introducing Randy Scheid, Founder of RGS Partners Consulting (04:30) What makes an effective board member? (06:55) How do you articulate the role of the board? (08:50) Board’s role in succession planning (12:45) Board’s role in programming (15:20) How do you know if a program is working? (16:30) Program evaluation (20:05) RGS Partners Consulting in 2025 (23:30) Recapping with Read

In this episode of I501(c)You, we sit down with Tom Grier, board chair for the Humane Society of Manatee County. Tom shares his unique insights into effective board leadership, building trust, and fostering alignment with executive directors. Tom opens up about the philosophy that drives his work, his passion for animal welfare, and his approach to evolving board culture through trust, patience, and clear communication. Tune in to hear how Tom collaborates with Executive Director Rick Yocum to steer the Humane Society toward success, the lessons he’s learned from decades of leadership, and his vision of board service as a position of humility and service. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for nonprofit board members and leaders alike. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Tom Grier, Board Chair of Humane Society of Manatee County (04:10) Getting into nonprofit board leadership (06:30) Becoming board chair of Humane Society of Manatee County (09:00) Getting aligned as a board (09:30) Board chair philosophy (11:20) Bringing the philosophy to the board - Slow down approach (14:20) How did you embed this philosophy in the board? (17:00) Communicating with the Executive Director (19:55) Communicating with other board members (21:40) Advice for a new board chair (25:10) Recapping with Read

As Thanksgiving approaches, we take a moment to express gratitude for you—our listeners and viewers. In this episode of I 501(c) You, Michael shares why year-end is the perfect time for nonprofit board members to reflect on their commitment to the organizations they serve. Michael explains why every board member should make a personal donation—not through their business, but in their own name. He outlines three key reasons: demonstrating commitment, empowering fundraisers, and meeting critical funder expectations. Tune in for this timely reminder about the impact of personal giving as a board member, and join us in giving thanks for the incredible work nonprofit organizations do year-round. Timestamps: 00:35 Giving personally as a board member 01:45 It shows your commitment to the organization 02:00 It gives you the opportunity to ask people for money 02:25 Funders will ask Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

This week, we speak with Patty McIlreavy, President and CEO of Center for Disaster Philanthropy. Together, we explore the intricate dynamics of nonprofit board governance, remote leadership, and the evolving landscape of disaster response. Patty shares the intentional strategies that keep her board engaged and effective, from fostering deep connections among members to balancing hybrid and in-person meetings. She highlights the importance of nurturing board relationships through regular touchpoints, in-person gatherings, and creating opportunities for meaningful interactions. As we dive deeper, Patty discusses how being a remote organization has not hindered her nonprofit's mission, thanks to the trust and alignment with funders who believe in their global vision. We also explore a compelling concept: "all philanthropy is disaster philanthropy." Patty challenges organizations to recognize that vulnerabilities in their communities can disrupt their missions, urging them to be proactive in addressing systemic challenges, even if they're not directly in disaster work. Center for Disaster Philanthropy Website Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing Patty McIlreavy, President & CEO of Center for Disaster Philanthropy 03:50 Patty’s Career path and working in Africa 07:45 Leading a completely virtual organization 13:45 Getting the staff together, popping in on people, and office hours 17:12 Can leaders make the transition to virtual leading? 23:25 Having a fully remote board 28:40 Do funders care CDP is remote? 33:00 All philanthropy is disaster philanthropy 37:00 Parting words 38:35 Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

As we approach the end of the year, it's time for nonprofit board members to take action and set their organizations up for success in 2025. In this episode of I 501(c) You, we dive into five essential tasks that every board member should tackle before the calendar turns. From conducting performance reviews for your Executive Director to lining up strategic priorities for the upcoming year, we've got you covered with practical advice to keep your organization on track. We'll also explore how to onboard new board members, optimize your year-end fundraising appeal, and show appreciation to your hardworking staff during this season of gratitude. Timestamps: (00:00) 5 Things Board members should do before the end of the year (00:55) #1 Performance review for the Executive Director (01:43) #2 Identify strategic priorities for next year (02:25) #3 Onboard new board members (03:07) #4 Year end campaign (03:48) #5 Give appreciation to staff Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode, we speak with Joe Schaefer, an expert in employee retention and executive benefits to discuss the often-overlooked topic of retention strategies for nonprofit executives. Joe shares insights on the importance of retention plans from both board and executive perspectives, explaining how these programs can help nonprofit leaders attract and retain critical talent. Joe discusses different types of plans, including qualified and non-qualified options like 457 and split-dollar plans, and we discuss the benefits of these strategies for nonprofits facing recruitment and retention challenges. Joe also provides examples of how customized retention solutions can prevent costly turnover, especially in roles that drive an organization’s mission and funding. Whether addressing board members concerned with stability or executives considering retirement, this episode highlights the value of thoughtful retention planning in strengthening the nonprofit sector. Executive Benefits for Tax Exempt Organizations Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing Joe Schaefer, Vice President - Atlantic Region for NFP  02:35 What do Board Members need to know about Executive Retention plans? 04:30 What do executives need to know about Executive Retention plans? 06:45 From recruiting to retirement 07:30 When should a retention plan be implemented? 11:30 What should boards consider when thinking about retention plans? 13:10 Split Dollar plan explanation 18:15 Split Dollar on the 990 19:10 What size organization does this work for? 20:00 How do board’s start thinking about retaining an executive? 26:00 Find Joe on Linkedin 27:00 Recapping with Read Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization. Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podcasts Amazon iHeartRadio Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode of I 501(c) You, we dive into the essential role of nonprofit leadership during times of crisis. With recent hurricanes impacting Florida, we discuss how executive directors and board members can maintain focus and adapt effectively when unexpected events disrupt operations. Michael shares key insights on the importance of strategic priorities, staying visible to staff and stakeholders, and making tough decisions grounded in empathy and clarity. He also highlights the power of community resilience in Sarasota and beyond, emphasizing how collective support strengthens both individuals and organizations. Timestamps: 00:00 It is great to be back! 01:05 The importance of strategic priorities 02:30 Leading in times of uncertainty 04:15 No action might be the best action