What is Money Mindset and how might yours affect your fundraising?  Listen as special guest Lacey Mellott and host Scott Niermann, discuss how to discern and shape your attitude and concepts surrounding money, and use it to improve your fundraising conversations and donor relationships. Episode Highlights: Lacey defines money mindset and explains how cultural taboos and personal experiences shape our beliefs about money. Scott discusses the impact of early money memories on fundraising attitudes. Lacey emphasizes the importance of shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset to unlock fundraising potential. Lacey suggests mindfulness and reflection as tools to build confidence before donor meetings. Scott discusses the value of not underestimating small donors and understanding donor motivations. Lacey advises fundraisers to see their work as an opportunity for donors to contribute to a transformative mission. Scott encourages fundraisers to take pride in their role, viewing it as a key part of societal good. Key Quotes: “Your money mindset is your unique set of feelings or beliefs around money.” - Lacey Mellott “It's so important to acknowledge how we think about money and then try to set ourselves up with some actions to behave differently so that we can really ultimately raise the most money possible for the nonprofits that we serve.” - Lacey Mellott “I also encourage folks to embed some reflection time into their routine before donor interactions, just taking that five minutes in your car before you go in to just do a little reset.” - Lacey Mellott Resources Mentioned: Lacey Mellott LinkedIn Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Book: The Millionaire Next Door 1st (first) edition

Have you ever wondered what drives people to make a gift - even a really big gift? In this short episode, Cass and Niermann discuss reasons why people give, and the emotional connections with, and benefits to, those who give. Episode Highlights: Exploring the connection between emotions and decisions to donate to charity Discussing personal updates and the hosts' experiences with philanthropy Delving into new research suggesting pre-giving emotions influence charitable actions Analyzing the shift in motivations for giving, highlighting the role of emotion over the past decade Reflecting on the impact of societal changes on philanthropic behaviors Examining academic debates around the 'warm glow' theory versus preheating effects in giving Concluding thoughts on the reciprocal benefits of giving and its implications on personal legacy Key Quotes: “As a fundraiser, I want people to feel good about supporting our organization. I want them to have a warm glow if you will, but I really want the person that is inherently generous. That fundamentally believes in our mission and, and knows and trusts that we're going to make an impact.” - Scott Niermann “Anything we can do on this podcast to inspire more people, any donors, any board members listening out there, this is good for them. So you're right. There is a reciprocity. There is a benefit to all of this, whether you need to decrease cortisol, whether you need to feel better about your place on the planet.” - Scott Niermann Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Featured article: People who donate to charity seem to have one thing in common Bank of America/Merrill Lynch study on high net worth philanthropy The Health Benefits of Volunteering: A Review of Recent Research The Health Benefits of Giving Back I Like Giving - Book I Like Giving - Website

Having trouble closing major gifts? Unsure how to approach major gifts? Let's think about what NOT to do, and talk about a better way.  In this episode, Niermann and Cass talk about experiences in sales and fundraising, both mistakes they have made and successes they have had, and lessons learned through each case. Episode Highlights: Jason Cass explains the importance of managing major gifts in nonprofit fundraising.  Scott Niermann emphasizes the importance of visiting donors personally for major gift requests to build relationships.  Jason Cass discusses the effectiveness of face-to-face meetings versus virtual meetings for major gift tasks.  Scott Niermann explains the significance of having the right people in the room during major gift asks, especially involving board members.  Scott Niermann discusses strategies for avoiding backtracking during major gift asks and the importance of not beating around the bush.  Scott Niermann shares a personal anecdote about a two-hour lunch meeting where he failed to make the ask and the lessons learned.  Scott Niermann discusses the critical role of follow-up and keeping the responsibility to stay in touch.  Jason Cass provides practical tips for ensuring follow-up, including planning timelines and understanding donors' preferences for communication. Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Feature article: Top 8 Nonprofit Major Gift Asking Blunders

After a hiatus of several months, listen as Cass and Niermann get real about future podcast episodes (send in your feedback and tell us what you need!).  This episode also emphasizes the importance of executive or leadership coaching, as Scott shares about the value he has seen with an Executive Coach to help level up his game. Episode Highlights: Jason mentions a thought-provoking book “Think Again” by Adam Grant, discussing how the rate of knowledge growth has accelerated from 25 years to as few as 3-6 years since the 1950s. Jason and Scott discuss their goal to rethink the podcast format to better deliver valuable insights to the audience. Scott shares his experience post-pandemic, touching on how basic functions in society seem to struggle and his personal engagement with an executive coach to enhance his leadership skills. Scott explains the 360 assessment process he underwent, which provided him with comprehensive feedback from various perspectives within his professional circle. Scott discusses the complexities of leadership styles and the necessary balance between detail-oriented and results-focused approaches. Discussion on the necessity of leadership adaptability in fast-paced environments and the importance of detail-oriented management. Jason discusses the implications of failing to meet goals and the intrinsic value of the learning derived from those experiences. Scott explains the philosophical aspects of identity, and how our past and decisions shape who we are and who we can become. Jason mentions another influential book, "The Courage to Be Disliked" which further explores the concept of identity and personal growth. Key Quotes: “We're trying to rethink this podcast, right? We want to make sure that we're going to give you the nuggets that we started with all along.” - Jason Cass “We're not trying to be all things to all people, but on the same token, we want to go deeper kind of in a next level that's going to help folks today.” - Scott Niermann “I'm being challenged in my leadership role. And so it's time for me to level up, right? You either rise to the occasion when you're in leadership or you get off the bus.” - Scott Niermann Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Books mentioned by Jason Cass in this episode:  Think Again by Adam Grant The Courage to Be Disliked by Kishimi, Koga & Galvin

Do more complex, major gifts confuse you?  Do you wonder how to land stock, IRA, real estate, or other significant gifts for your nonprofit?  If you are just getting started understanding these things, don't miss this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, so you can begin talking with donors about gifts of appreciated assets, including real estate, personal collections, valuables, and more! Episode Highlights: Scott mentions that the first rule for obtaining a tax advantage when making a charitable gift is to donate it to a 501c3 public charity. (4:39) Scott explains the importance of discussing year-end giving with donors' tax advisors and ensuring timely paperwork. (7:46) Scott discusses the concept of bunching gifts, which is a tax planning strategy where a donor combines multiple years of giving in order to exceed the standard deduction in that tax year. (9:57) Scott mentions the significance of Donor Advised Funds (DAF) for regularly setting aside money for charitable purposes. (11:28) Scott advises fundraisers to consider marketing appreciated assets such as stock, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate to avoid capital gains. (13:27) Scott discusses the concept of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRA accounts. (18:30) Scott explains the Qualified Charitable Distribution, which allows donors to directly give up to $100,000 per year to a qualified charity. (20:22) Jason mentions that one of the motivating factors behind putting the podcast together was the various changes happening in the organizations covered by NP Local. (22:07) Key Quotes: “If you're a fundraiser out there, and again, you're working towards your year-end strategies, be sure that you're talking with people or marketing appreciated, stock bonds, or mutual funds. Appreciated investments, including real estate, when gifted directly to charity, help the donor avoid the capital gain.” - Scott Niermann  “One of the things that ignited Scott and me to be able to put this podcast together was the different changes that are coming into nonprofits, social services, all of these different organizations that NP local covers.” - Jason Cass Resources Mentioned: Fidelity Charitable: Charitable contributions U.S Chamber of Commerce: How Do Charitable Donations Impact Your Taxes? CNBC: How to maximize your tax deduction for charitable donations Charity Navigator: Tax Benefits of Giving Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast

In this episode of the NP Local podcast, Jason Cass and Scott Niermann discuss the well-known "Fundraising Cycle" - six steps to facilitate donor engagement.  Variations of this model exist, but the principles remain the same. Join us as we explore the stages of donor engagement in the fund development process. Episode Highlights: Scott discusses the first two stages of the fundraising cycle which are identifying a prospect, and qualifying potential donors. (3:58) Scott mentions that the third stage is cultivating relationships with potential donors, including inviting them to events and sending them mail to prepare them for solicitation. (7:17) Scott discusses the solicitation stage of fundraising, and how research and outreach can help with major gifts. (12:19) Jason discusses the importance of having multiple marketing tactics to reach different types of clients, and how outsourcing and technology can help with e-newsletters and online donations. (14:05) Scott explains how to segment donor bases based on their giving levels and how to steward them differently. (18:55) Scott discusses the importance of stewardship in fundraising, including spending the money ethically and meeting the donors' expectations. (20:17) Jason mentions the Directors and Officers' coverage in protecting nonprofit organizations from lawsuits due to wrongful acts. (22:18) Scott advises prioritizing time and doing things properly, particularly with top donors, to cultivate, recognize, and steward them, as it can result in bigger and more frequent gifts. (23:36) Key Quotes: “Routines though, are one of the keys to success because routines create consistency and consistency creates success.” - Jason Cass “Prioritize your time and do things properly, particularly with your top donors. You've always got special events and mailings that you can do for those lower down the levels. But, try to do it properly with your top-tier supporters and you will be amazed at the results.” - Scott Niermann Resources Mentioned: NonProfitPRO: What Is the Fundraising Cycle? Freewill: What nonprofits need to know about the 6 stages of the fundraising cycle Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast

This episode features a dynamic discussion between Cass and Niermann about organizational readiness for fundraising. The discussion also dips into some principles for major gift conversations and the capital campaign Niermann is currently engaged in. Episode Highlights: Jason discusses the challenges faced in the advertising and insurance fields, which include the effects of budget trimming and staff layoffs. (1:30) Scott shares his experience with the administrative hurdles while managing a nonprofit fundraising department, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and ethical conduct in fundraising activities. (4:26) Scott outlines nine key factors to evaluate when considering fundraising readiness, these include crafting a clear case, setting specific goals, and defining a vision for the organization. (7:54) Scott discusses the obstacles they encountered when fundraising for a 130,000-square-foot facility, highlighting the necessity for patience, professionalism, and involvement from leadership volunteers. (15:09) Scott shares a story about an unexpected $100,000 donation, underlining the importance of preparedness for such surprise gifts. (16:35) Jason believes in the approach of letting the donor make the first decision, without making assumptions about their thinking. (17:12) Scott mentions the nine elements required to effectively manage fundraising. (18:41) Key Quotes: “I've been fortunate where I'm at now that so many people love and know about the organization. And we serve a pretty large geographic area of 10 counties that people know about us and call us pretty regularly. ” - Scott Niermann “One of the things I do is I like to make the offer first, and I've had to learn over the last three or four years. Let them make the decision. Number one, it's their decision anyways, but you never know what they're really thinking versus what you're thinking.” - Jason Cass “Institutional readiness, and what you need in order to do fundraising and to manage fundraising. There are nine things: the case, the need, the goals, prospects, leadership, volunteers, public relations, time, staff, and budget.” - Scott Niermann Resources Mentioned: The Fund Raising School at Indiana University: Principles and Techniques of Fundraising Checklists: Check Out Your Organization’s Fund-Raising Readiness and Learn the Secret Of Fund-Raising Success Organizational Readiness Checklist CFRE: International Statement of Ethical Principles in Fundraising The Chronicle of Philanthropy: Working With Vulnerable Elderly Donors: Tips for Fundraisers The Non-Profit Times: Sensitive Stewardship And Donors with Dementia Bloomerang: 7 Limiting Beliefs in Fundraising You Need to Remove Today So You Can Raise More Book: The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast

In this episode of the NP Local podcast, Jason Cass and Scott Niermann discuss further the CEO and CDO roles in fundraising leadership. Specifically, why do we want CEOs involved in fundraising, and how should we think about and engage their leadership role when working with donors?   Episode Highlights: Scott mentions that successful fundraising requires an organization's Executive Leadership. (2:34) Scott discusses the advantages of involving CEOs in fundraising, such as obtaining larger gifts and demonstrating support for fundraising functions. (3:46) Scott believes that a CEO can help fundraisers by signing cards, making phone calls, and organizing lunches for introductions. (6:40) Scott explains how important it is to create a culture that respects and understands the fundraising cycle. (9:36) Jason mentions that it is important to give ownership to employees and involve them in fundraising efforts. (11:47) Scott believes that successful fundraising requires coordination, collaboration, and respect for each other's knowledge and function. (13:33) Jason explains why it is important to concentrate on long-term goals. (15:30) Scott mentions that relationships and working with the right people are important fundraising principles. (17:23) Key Quotes: “Successful fundraising includes Executive Leadership of your organization.” - Scott Niermann “Ask anybody on my team and ask them what they are building. Everybody in my office can tell you what they're building because we are building an empire. And I can't build the empire. But everybody building their piece of the empire creates the empire.” - Jason Cass “The number one thing a CEO can do is to ensure that the fundraising shop has the resources that they need, whether it's human resources, or whether it's cash, it takes money to raise money.” - Scott Niermann Resources Mentioned: SPNO: Should CEO Be Involved with Fundraising? Future Fundraising Now: 8 ways a CEO can transform fundraising Fundraising Coach: How much time should a nonprofit CEO spend on fundraising? Amy Eisenstein: Help Your Executive Director Embrace Their Role in Raising Major Gifts Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast

Listen as Niermann and Cass discuss leadership roles in fundraising for small and larger nonprofits, with an emphasis on the importance of a CEO's engagement in the process. The Board of Directors also has a role, but the importance of the CEO's role cannot be overstated.  Listen and learn more! Episode Highlights: Scott discusses the growth of his organization over the past few years. (1:18) Scott mentions the role of Executive Leadership in fundraising and the importance of collaboration between the CEO and the fundraiser. (4:08) Scott explains the Chief Development Officer's role and how it differs from that of a CEO. (7:39) Scott mentions that the fundraising manager focuses on how, by whom, and when funds are raised, whereas the fundraising leader inspires everyone in the nonprofit by focusing on why funds are raised. (11:43) Scott discusses his role in leading a capital campaign to raise $7.5 million for a new 130,000-square-foot facility, and shares the project's timeline. (12:35) Jason mentions that smaller social services organizations often don't have a CDO and instead the CEO is doing a lot of the work of a CDO. (17:51) Jason explains that managers can only do so much with manpower and that if they don't have enough manpower, they must focus on the things that add the most value. (20:10) Scott mentions that the next episode will discuss why a CEO should be involved in fundraising, how they can learn to fundraise, and how you can collaborate with them. (21:33) Key Quotes: “What I have found is that there's oftentimes not a consensus in any given community on the role of Executive Leadership and fundraising or the role of an organizational CEO, as compared to that of your hired fundraiser or lead fundraiser.” - Scott Niermann “The fundraising manager concentrates on how funds are being raised, by whom, and by when. The fundraising leader, in contrast, inspires everyone in the nonprofit, focusing on why the funds are being raised, and what could be next if fundraising could increase to meet an expanding vision.” - Scott Niermann “We can’t understand certain things that happen in our life unless we experience them. But one of the ways that we can get the closest is by listening to podcasts like this.” - Jason Cass Resources Mentioned: Board Source: The Guide to Board Member Roles and Responsibilities Gail Perry Group: 10 Fundraising Responsibilities of Every Board Member NonProfitPRO: The CEO Is the Quarterback for Organizational Fundraising Lilly Family School of Philanthropy: Effective leadership, successful fundraising Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast

A leader's engagement is critical to engaging the team and organizational success. Check out Part II of NP Local Podcast on Employee Engagement as it relates to productivity, burnout, and "quiet quitting." Episode Highlights: Scott discusses the critical role of trust in team engagement. (1:46) Jason mentions that one way to avoid quiet quitting is to ensure that everyone realizes that they each have their own piece of the empire, but that everyone's empire is successful because of the success of each other. (3:34) Scott discusses policy processes as barriers to micromanagement and shares that providing individuals freedom within specific limitations is something they've been working on in his organization in recent years. (4:49) Jason discusses the significance of structural support in the workplace. (8:53) Scott explains that offering ample opportunities for growth and development is one of the most important factors in improving employee engagement at the organizational level. (13:42) Scott discusses leadership engagement and how it drives employee engagement. (15:21) Scott shares how important developing self-awareness is for leaders. (19:01) Key Quotes: “What if we train them and they leave, what if we don't and they stay? Now, I know, there are a lot of you that have heard that before. But if you heard that for the first time, really stop and think about that. That is very, very vital and very important as a manager or principle.” - Jason Cass “As a leader, if we all will increase that self-awareness. As we said earlier, we all have quirks and that's just how we are. It's a factor of our lens and our personality and our experiences that we've been through. But, I think it's important to build that self-awareness.” - Scott Niermann  “We mentioned team norms…when you're severely understaffed, or when you have leadership that is not engaged, or that has had some turnover, or you just have these earth-shattering situations like the pandemic, right, that just changes what those norms ever have been before.”- Scott Niermann  Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Center for Creative Leadership Articles: 3 Tips to Banish Productivity Burnout Focused on Improving Employee Engagement & Retention? Pay Attention to These 4 Factors Book: Good to Great and the Social Sectors

In many cases, employee burnout leads to "quiet quitting" and the Great Resignation. What is "quiet quitting" and how can leaders combat this threat to your organization's mission through better engagement? Episode Highlights: Scott explains what “quiet quitting" is and how to prevent it in your organization. (2:35) Scott provides an example of leader engagement and shares that over the last ten years he has discovered how aspects of his identity or personality might impact his leadership. (6:21) Scott explains that people are more engaged when they believe their job is important and when they can relate their everyday activities to the organization's goals and accomplishments. (7:45) Jason mentions that one of the things he does in his business is reminding his employees that they are building an empire, specifically an insurance empire. (8:15) Scott explains that entering information into a database can make employees feel like a cog in the wheel, and it’s helpful if employees understand just how critical the database is to the organization’s mission. (9:57) Jason shares his mission for his virtual employees this year, as well as how Tango.io helps to make the processes and procedures easier to share with the virtual employees. (18:09) Jason mentions that he is thinking about writing a book about how to delegate, and he is even going to delegate the writing of his book. (13:14) Scott talks about the importance of building trust within your team. (15:32) Key Quotes: “If employees are properly engaged, that is the biggest thing an organization can do to avoid quiet quitting, especially in the nonprofit sector. You know, we're about mission.  As our lead into this podcast says, we're about mission and changing communities.” - Scott Niermann “If I can create the fence and let them know where they're allowed to not go, then they know where they can go. And I don't need to micromanage them.” - Jason Cass “What I always try to focus on with new employees is the fact that this database is the brain of the organization when none of us are there anymore. So that's how critical it is to the mission. So, you've got to take those things that feel like a hamster wheel and connect them to the mission.” - Scott Niermann Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Center for Creative Leadership Articles: 3 Tips to Banish Productivity Burnout Focused on Improving Employee Engagement & Retention? Pay Attention to These 4 Factors

Are you too stressed, exhausted and overwhelmed? "Busy" is the new normal. Dr. Garland Vance says busyness is an overcommitment to too many good things - and that it will kill you! If you aren't meeting the goals you set in your personal and professional life, check out this episode with Dr. Vance, to learn more about living with purpose, productivity, and peace. Episode Highlights: Dr. Vance discusses how he became interested in the issue of busyness. (2:01) Dr. Vance explains the three phases of burnout: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and loss of any sense of personal accomplishment. (5:46) Dr. Vance discusses the impact of busyness on productivity. (9:39) Dr. Vance believes that people can be so preoccupied with doing good things that they are unable to achieve the great things that they want. (11:41) According to Dr. Vance, the simplest approach to protect your people is to give them permission to push back, which sometimes involves saying no. (13:04) Dr. Vance discusses the steps he recommends for being unbusy: Decide, Deconstruct, Design, Develop, and Draw Others In, which took him three years to figure out and apply but will now only take others 30 days to accomplish. (16:41) Dr. Vance explains that busy individuals tend to attempt to cram relationships, recreation, rest, and reflection into the nooks and crannies of life, and there are no nooks and crannies when our lives are so busy. (22:18) Dr. Vance shares how making "busy" a bad word in your family can help you worry less and achieve more. (22:45) Key Quotes: “Burnout has been closely connected to busyness and over-commitment.” - Dr. Garland Vance “We're so busy doing so many good things that we can't actually do the great things that we want to do.” - Dr. Garland Vance “Don't say, “I'm busy”. Don't allow yourself to get caught up in believing that and instead, make it a bad word…As I said earlier, you're going to stress a whole lot less and accomplish a whole lot more.” - Dr. Garland Vance Resources Mentioned: Dr. Garland Vance LinkedIn Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast AdVanceLeadership.live GettinUnBusyBook.com Books:  The Four Disciplines of Execution Book: 48 Days to the Work and Life You Love

If you are a nonprofit employee, board member, or volunteer feeling worn down or even a sense of burnout, listen to Part II of this series of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, for a discussion on the current nonprofit environment and some ways to address your burnout, and the challenges it creates for your organization. Episode Highlights: Scott believes that there are effective techniques for dealing with burnout. (2:50) Jason discusses some of the signs of burnout and encourages individuals who are experiencing them to listen to this episode. (3:48) Scott discusses some of the burnout he experienced in the past, as well as how he manages his stress level. (4:53) Jason explains that having clear expectations and defining roles will help prevent burnout. (8:57) Jason discusses the significance of connecting with your employees, a lesson learned during COVID. (12:53) Scott believes that many individuals fail to focus on their own personal growth, professional development, and skill set because they are so concerned about others or stuck in their heads with decision-making. (14:26) Jason believes that everyone needs a coach, and he is looking forward to getting one soon. (16:58) Scott mentions several resources for listeners to look into that provide guidance on goal setting and resolutions. (18:13) Key Quotes: “Let's be sure that in a stressed or hurried environment, or just something where everyone is overloaded, that we're communicating clearly, and that one-on-one time as a leader with your team is so important.” - Scott Niermann “When people were stuck at home all the time, we realized that to a lot of people, their safe haven is the job.” - Jason Cass “Everybody needs a coach. And what's amazing is, the only people that I do not hear say that, are unsuccessful people.” - Jason Cass Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Articles: 3 Tips to Banish Productivity Burnout Nonprofit Burnout Statistics A Nonprofit Employee Says He Quit His Job After Having Anxiety and Heart Palpitations From Burnout Check this out for the "Wheel of Your Life" exercise: https://www.scottkniermann.com/pageblogarticles/2021/1/3/goals-and-resolutions-a-journey-in-change

Are you a nonprofit employee, board member, or volunteer feeling worn down or even a sense of burnout? Do you understand how critical it is to your organization that you recognize the symptoms and signs of burnout, and address them accordingly?  Listen to this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, for a discussion on the current nonprofit environment and some ways to address your own burnout. Episode Highlights: Scott mentions that employee burnout is real and common in the nonprofit sector, especially post-pandemic. (1:42) Jason explains that dealing with other people's money that has been entrusted to you as a nonprofit, and as a leader in the organization, is stressful, no matter who you are. (3:26) Scott discusses a Givebutter blog article from May 2022 about nonprofit burnout statistics that he can relate to. (4:14) Scott mentions that he has recovered from burnout four or five times in his 5-10 year career. (9:25) Jason mentions that he is currently reading the 5 Love Languages, a book that is so relatable that it works for people and would also work in business. (12:11) Jason explains that today's jobs are more demanding, and burnout may develop as a result of unfulfilled expectations. (14:20) Jason discusses how one of his team members' lives was changed after 20 years of being burnt out in the insurance business, and how Virtual Employees helped to ease some of the burnouts. (16:16) Scott explains that he had trouble accepting the fact that half of his staff would be out of the workplace due to their hybrid work arrangement but we are all adapting to a new reality. (18:48) Key Quotes: “We have become in the last 10 to 15 years, a very intellectual, emotionally talented, driven society, especially when it comes to work.” - Jason Cass “Not just the managerial level and the cultural level, but the individual, we all have to adapt to this new reality.” - Scott Niermann “The job is demanding more today. And sometimes, that burnout is because they're being unfulfilled.” - Jason Cass Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Articles: 3 Tips to Banish Productivity Burnout Nonprofit Burnout Statistics A Nonprofit Employee Says He Quit His Job After Having Anxiety and Heart Palpitations From Burnout Check this out for the "Wheel of Your Life" exercise: https://www.scottkniermann.com/pageblogarticles/2021/1/3/goals-and-resolutions-a-journey-in-change

As a leader, you want and need to have influence - but how do you begin? It's really all about others and how you treat them, and not so much about you! In this episode of the NP Local podcast hosted by Jason Cass and Scott Niermann, listen to a short episode based on John Maxwell's book by the same title. Episode Highlights: Scott discusses the first key point from John Maxwell's book, Becoming a Person of Influence, which is that everybody has an influence on somebody. (2:18) Jason shares how the word influence is very significant to him and how this has become the name of one of his podcasts. (3:00) Scott explains that nothing is more important than integrity and how it relates to being an influencer. (6:07) Scott shares that in order to be able to influence other people, one should be able to know how to nurture people. (7:56) Jason and Scott explain that it is very important to listen to what your team has to say. (10:42) Scott shares that the next point in Maxwell’s book is about helping people realize their own skill set. (13:05) Jason shares a saying from one of his mentors that that has had a tremendous impact on him. (16:06) Scott shares the importance of delegation and that empowering a person is similar to enlarging them. (18:02) Scott explains that insecure leaders feel threatened by the very individuals that they're supposed to be mentoring. (19:00) Jason shares that one of the most important things about being an influencer is that you are able to produce other influencers. (19:33) Key Quotes: "We as leaders, navigate for other people, if you're going to influence them, you are helping them navigate." - Scott Niermann "When you're the leader, there are certain things that you will decide and your team will not agree on, and you have got to make the call. That's why you're in that role, but you can still listen to their ideas." - Scott Niermann "There's a lot of things that can be done, and there are others that will help you with that, but you've got to be a leader and a person of influence that passes that baton." - Jason Cass Resources Mentioned: Book: Becoming a Person of Influence Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast

In this episode of the NP Local podcast Jason Cass and Scott Niermann discuss how a leader takes care of their team. Whether you supervise nonprofit, for-profit, or volunteer staff, check out this brief discussion for some ideas about leading your team well. Episode Highlights: Jason shares that different types of relationships all have similarities in what they require, and this starts with appreciation. (3:00) Scott shares the concept of giving your team acceptance, inspiration, and recognition (AIR) which he heard about in a podcast. (6:13) Jason explains the importance of getting to know what your employee values so that you can support them and show them appreciation in a way that is tailored to them. (9:12) Jason shares how they support their team in his office. (13:11) Jason explains that it is good to get to know each other outside of your business lives. (15:56) Scott shares about recognition and how this can be used to help lead your team well. (17:18) Scott explains that showing appreciation doesn’t have to be a big gesture and can go a long way. (21:13) Key Quotes: "It's our time to reconnect. And so, not only does the next generation expect this, maybe not on that big scale, but show your appreciation. It doesn't have to feel like an obligatory thing. You know, do something a little bit creative. And, really, let's just say thank you" - Scott Niermann “In a relationship, first it's acceptance, right? Accepting that person for who they are because we've all got quirks. We all got certain gifts and knowledge, and we've all got the desire to be part of a team or part of a relationship." - Scott Niermann "My really, really good friends are just as important to me as my co workers. They’re building the empire that is helping serve the community and what we're doing." - Jason Cass Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Three Ways Great Leaders Show They Care About Their Team 12 Tips for Taking Care of Your Employees The Art of Caring About Your Employees

In this episode of the NP Local podcast, Join Jason Cass and Scott Niermann as they discuss the most important forms of nonprofit insurance, and the latest tips and tricks to be sure your agent gets you the best coverage. You don't want to miss this episode if you are shopping for insurance policies, wondering if your agent is doing the best work for your nonprofit organization, or if you want to be sure to protect your agency from cyber crimes! Episode Highlights: Scott explains that if you have a high net worth, you should be aware of the organization's D&O limit so that it can function in combination with other policies you may have. (2:26) Jason discusses what Directors and Officers' "D&O" liability is. (3:03) Jason explains that having an insurance person on the board gives great guidance, but you must also ensure that they understand that social services, directors and officers, nonprofits, are unlike other sectors. (6:14) Scott discusses that having board education sessions or having an insurance agent attend a board meeting and talk about fiduciary duty and other decision-making liability is beneficial. (8:01) Jason explains Employment Practices Liability as any practice for which you may be held accountable as an employer. (8:49) Jason discusses the third-party Employment Practices Liability coverages. (11:39) Jason explains why having a policy that includes coverage for volunteers is important for nonprofits and social services. (13:58) Jason explains what cyber liability is and why it is important in a local organization. (14:53) Jason defines the different types of coverage in a Cyber Liability policy. (16:47) Scott shares his experience as a cyber attack victim. (17:56) Jason explains how cyber attackers generate money. (18:58) Jason explains how "blocking the markets" exists and what should be done when this happens. (22:11) Key Quotes: “Having an insurance person on the board gives great guidance, it really does. But, you also have to make sure that they understand that social services, directors and officers, nonprofits are completely different than any other sector out there.” - Jason Cass “Somebody asked me not long ago also what the limit was on the organization's D&O. Because, I think when you have a high net worth, you need to know that so that it works in conjunction with other policies you may have.” - Scott Niermann “Just know that the insurance markets are changing every year. And this is where you can get the latest and encourage you to keep in contact with your agents so that you can know what's going on and know what to expect when you come up for renewal.” - Scott Niermann Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast

Join NP Local co-host Scott Niermann and special guest Paul Bowman, President of The Holston Foundation (Alcoa, TN), a 25-year veteran of fundraising, as they discuss planned giving vehicles and some tips about starting, enhancing, or growing your donor gift planning program. Episode Highlights: Scott introduces Paul Bowman, President of The Holston Foundation. (1:03) Paul discusses planned giving programs and mentions that a robust planned giving program is a natural maturity of a non-profit, especially a development office for a nonprofit. (3:49) Paul explains that a planned gift is any strategic gift that benefits an organization and often leads to the sustainability of the organization. (5:49) Paul shares that it is important for nonprofits to express their vision of the nonprofit to potential donors. (7:50) Scott and Paul talk about wills, bequests, and the majority of planned gifts come from a simple bequest. (10:31) Paul shares that he often does a workshop called Provide and Protect that talks about beneficiary options for planned giving, which many people are unaware of. (14:14) Scott shares that in their organization, they have what is called a charitable gift annuity or CGA program. (20:32) Paul shares the benefits of gifting stocks, bonds, or even mutual funds. (25:42) Paul discusses which components in a legacy society are most important. (30:33)  Key Quotes: "I just encourage those that perhaps are dipping their toe into planned giving, as a professional or as a nonprofit, don't be scared of the process. Get to know a foundation, or a bank, or an organization that can assist you in the more sophisticated gifts." -Paul Bowman "You may not be under the shade of the tree of the seeds that you're planting in your nonprofit work, but someone will benefit from your efforts." -Paul Bowman "I love CGAs. They're such an easy instrument to use, you don't even need to involve an attorney. In the process, it's simply a contract between the nonprofit and a donor that has to be notarized and you receive the gift." -Paul Bowman Resources Mentioned: Paul Bowman LinkedIn Reach out to Jason Cass Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast The Holston Foundation Planned Giving Today newsletter Crescendo Interactive software Charitable Estate Planning Institute The FundRaising School at Indiana University

In this episode of the NP Local podcast Join co-host Scott Niermann and special guest Amanda Squibb, Executive Director of Friends of the Children - Klamath Basin (Klamath Falls, OR) as they discuss lessons learned through the years of organizing special events, and even hybrid events! Consider the purposes of hosting special events and the expected or likely ROI for this fundraising/friend-raising strategy. Episode Highlights: Scott introduces his guest, Amanda Squibb, Executive Director of Friends of the Children - Klamath Basin. (0:39) Amanda shares about their recent "Friendraiser", their primary fundraising event of the year which has the goal of both raising funds but also to raising friends and awareness for the Friends of the Children organization. (4:02) Amanda discusses the challenges they have faced during the global pandemic which required them to pivot to holding virtual events in 2020 & 2021 and a hybrid event in 2022. (6:44) Amanda explains that a lot of lessons were learned from their most recent “Friendraiser” but that she is very proud of their team for pivoting and being creative and finding solutions. (08:10) Amanda explains that micro-fundraising events and events to raise awareness about the organization were a crucial component for them during the pandemic. (13:40) Amanda discusses how they ensure a good return on investment, both in terms of fundraising and raising friends and awareness. (17:25) Amanda mentions that they used their auction to focus on helping small businesses that had suffered during the pandemic. (20:40) Amanda shares that she loves that nonprofit organizations can share ideas and creativity in a positive way. (25:08) Amanda sees Friends of the Children - Klamath Basin as an excellent example of doing a lot with limited resources. (28:43) Key Quotes: “Friends of the Children is the name of the organization, and the ‘Friendraiser’ is the name coined for the event because while we are raising funds, we're also trying to raise friends and awareness about the organization of Friends of the Children.” - Amanda Squibb “We have an incredible committee, a board development committee, that we start planning for this event, six, seven months out, and so many of them have been doing it for so long. And like I said, we continue to innovate, and we want to bring something new and fresh every year. That's really important to this event.” - Amanda Squibb “I think we're a great example of doing a lot with so little, you know, small community rural, we have a lot of poverty in our community and recognizing the barriers, but don't let those defeat you, that you can do it just keep pushing.” - Amanda Squibb Resources Mentioned: Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting NP Local Podcast Friends of the Children - Klamath Basin Resources re: Special Events, etc.: Fundraising Principles and Practice text:  Special Events 101 for Nonprofit Fundraising SNPO: Special Events - Pros and Cons Blog: The 2 Types of special Fundraising Events and Why They Matter Eventbrite - How to Create a Winning Event Plan TeamGantt - Event Planning Template & Checklist Harvard Business Review - Addressing the Biggest Challenges of Hosting Hybrid Events

Why should a nonprofit organization partner or collaborate with a corporation? How do you find the right business partnership and open the door to great opportunities? In this episode of the NP Local podcast, join host Scott Niermann and special guest Cheryle N. Yallen of CNY Nonprofit Strategies to discuss a "good fit" partnership and essential components of that corporate-nonprofit relationship. Episode Highlights: Cheryle explains that when nonprofits and corporations come together with a mutual goal, they can accomplish a lot. (4:10) Cheryle talks about how local nonprofits could benefit from a partnership with a corporation. (7:28) Cheryle advises nonprofits to think outside the box and not to focus on the money, as it will naturally come. (10:55) Cheryle provides an example of how she was able to build credibility and recognition for a nonprofit. (12:56) Cheryle explains that advocacy is pushing for and pulling for a particular issue. (15:40) Cheryle shares that the first step to building trust with a corporation is to figure out who at the corporation you should contact. (17:38) Cheryle talks about how the key to a great negotiation is thinking through in advance what you can bring to the table. (23:01) Cheryle elaborates on the importance of roles and responsibilities for both parties in a corporate-nonprofit relationship. (24:37) Cheryle advises listeners to look at what is exciting and fun in a partnership, and suddenly new ideas will come up and the rest will follow. (27:53) Key Quotes: "Both the nonprofit and the corporation come together with a mutual goal, and together they can accomplish a lot." - Cheryle Yallen "I would say, as a nonprofit, think bigger and think outside the box. Don't automatically go for the money, the money will come. But appeal to them for a different reason." - Cheryle Yallen "I would say in partnership, overall, think outside the box. Don't look at what is necessarily easy. Look at what is exciting and fun. And then all of a sudden, you'll come up with some new ideas." - Cheryle Yallen Resources Mentioned: Cheryle N. Yallen LinkedIn CNY Enterprises Reach out to Scott Niermann - Scott can assist with church, nonprofit, and commercial insurance in Tennessee and Georgia. Nonprofit Insured The Insurance Alliance serves organizations in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. Niermann Coaching and Consulting Additional information on corporate-nonprofit partnerships: Volgistics Blog Nonprofit Pro Classy The Modern Nonprofit