Podcast
Mission Forward with Carrie Fox
Hosted by TruStory FM · EN
Mission Forward with Carrie Fox
Hosted by social impact expert and B Corp leader Carrie Fox, the Mission Forward podcast explores what it really takes to move a mission forward in today’s society.
With her signature blend of heart and head, Carrie sits down with some of the world’s most-admired purpose driven leaders to dig into issues you’re experiencing right now: from how to navigate difficult issues, how to lead through uncertainty and how to tackle tough conversations with courage and care. With guests ranging from Pulitzer Prize winning journalists, purpose-driven CEOs, storytelling and fundraising experts, and people in the driver’s seat of social change, this show will inspire and activate you as a mission-moving leader, too.
* About the Host (https://www.missionforward.us/about-carrie)
* Listen to Past Episodes (https://www.missionforward.us/episodes)
32episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Rebroadcast • Communicating Through Volatility with Hearken’s Jennifer Brandel and Mission Partners’ Brian Fox
Aug 7, 202500:27:34Tap to summarizeIt's election season. The air crackles – a strange cocktail of anticipation and apprehension. We’re drowning in pronouncements, predictions, and the ever-present din of commentary. But what if the key to navigating this volatile landscape isn’t about shouting louder but listening deeper?On this episode of Mission Forward, we explore that very question with Jennifer Brandel, a process innovator and co-founder of Hearken. Hearken helps institutions truly hear their audiences. Brandel's background, spanning from NPR to the New York Times, gives her a unique vantage point. She’s not just a theorist; she’s wrestled with these challenges in both her professional and deeply personal life. Our host this week is our own Brian Fox, chief strategy officer at Mission Partners, a native at navigating volatile landscapes himself.Together, they unpack the surprising power of curiosity and deep listening, especially when the stakes are high. Think of a surgeon in the operating room: skilled hands guided by intense focus and precise observation. Or a negotiator: not bulldozing, but listening, seeking the subtle cues that can de-escalate a challenging conversation. In the chaotic aftermath of a natural disaster, it's the quiet acts of empathy and connection that rebuild shattered communities.So why, when it comes to the equally turbulent terrain of politics, do we so often resort to the verbal equivalent of a sledgehammer?Brandel and Fox share how we can move beyond the echo chambers and engage in meaningful dialogue, even – perhaps especially – with those with whom we vehemently disagree. They explore the difference between listening to respond and listening to understand. They shine a light on the subtle art of “looping,” a technique that can transform heated debates into opportunities for genuine connection, and reveal how organizational values, when they’re more than just empty slogans, can serve as a compass in moments of uncertainty.This isn’t just about surviving the election; it’s about building a more resilient, empathetic, and ultimately, more democratic society. Join us as we uncover the hidden power of listening in a world that desperately needs to hear.Links & NotesHearkenAmanda Ripley's High ConflictSlate's How To Podcast (Two-Part Series with Jennifer Brandel)Monica Guzman's I Never Thought of It That WayBraver AngelsJohn Paul Lederach's Pocket Guide to Facing Down a Civil War (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward (02:01) - What to Say (05:25) - Curiosity and Depp Listening
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Rebroadcast • Information We Can Rely on with American Press Institute’s Michael D. Bolden
Jul 24, 202500:25:30Tap to summarizeIn a world drowning in information, where every click and scroll can lead us further down a rabbit hole of misinformation, what is our cultural and intellectual lifeline?This week on Mission Forward, Carrie Fox swims the turbulent waters of local news with Michael D. Bolden. He serves as the Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer at the American Press Institute, and he's not here to talk about headlines and deadlines. He’s here to talk about the very oxygen of democracy – the free flow of information and how we've let ours become polluted.Bolden shares his deeply personal journey, from a childhood steeped in the wisdom of diverse media sources to his current mission of rescuing local journalism from the clutches of apathy and distrust. But this isn't just another lament for the dying days of print. This is a call to arms. Bolden throws down a gauntlet, challenging the very notion of "audience." He speaks of forging genuine connections, of weaving newsrooms into the very fabric of the communities they serve. He paints a picture of journalists not as detached observers but as engaged citizens, listening intently to the whispers and shouts of the people they represent. It's a radical shift, reimagining the relationship between the informed and the informers.The American Press Institute, under Bolden's leadership, isn't just patching up the cracks in the foundation of local news; they're rebuilding it from the ground up. He reveals their secret weapon: a laser-focused mission to create news organizations that are not just surviving but thriving. He speaks of resilience, of adaptability, of the courage to pivot in the face of relentless change. Along the way, he hints at exciting new initiatives, veiled in a touch of journalistic mystery, promising a future where local news is not just relevant but essential.As the looming shadow of a pivotal election descends, Bolden offers a glimmer of hope. He sees newsrooms embracing flexibility, thinking beyond the immediate frenzy, and laying the groundwork for a future where trust is not a luxury but the bedrock of our democracy. He reminds us that the work doesn't end on election night; it's a continuous conversation, a constant striving to build bridges and illuminate the path forward. This episode is a stark reminder: we cannot afford to be passive consumers of information. The future of our communities—and our democracy itself—depends on it.We are grateful to Michael and the American Press Institute for their generosity in making this conversation possible. (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward (06:38) - Local News and Democracy (08:34) - What is The American Press Institute? (11:15) - Change, Challenge, and Opportunity (15:26) - The Relationship Gap (18:46) - A Focus on Mission (20:32) - Hope (22:56) - Closing Thoughts
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Rebroadcast • A Recipe for Cooling Down American Politics with Peacebuilder Dr. John Paul Lederach
Jul 10, 202500:32:14Tap to summarizeIn this rebroadcast, we ask a difficult question: Is civil war inevitable, or can we talk our way back from the brink? In a world increasingly fractured, whispers of civil unrest grow louder. Dr. John Paul Lederach, a veteran peacebuilder with decades of experience in global conflict zones, offers a stark yet hopeful message: the antidote to escalating tensions lies not in grand pronouncements but in the quiet power of human connection. This week on Mission Forward, Lederach shares insights from his new book, Pocket Guide for Facing Down a Civil War, a timely and urgent call to action for a nation teetering on the edge.Lederach's work isn't about predicting the future; it's about recognizing the patterns of the past. He draws parallels between the volatile political climate in the US and the conflicts he's witnessed around the world, highlighting the insidious nature of dehumanization and the urgent need for rehumanization. He argues that we must move beyond "listening with our eyes," judging individuals based on their affiliations, and instead engage in deep, radical listening that acknowledges the shared humanity beneath the surface of disagreement.Lederach introduces the concept of "watching our pockets," a metaphor for cultivating local, grassroots movements for peace. He argues that lasting change emerges not from top-down decrees but from the interconnected web of relationships within our communities. He challenges listeners to consider: who do we know? How can we connect with those just outside our comfort zones? How can we build alliances around shared values and goals?The conversation isn't about finding easy answers or quick fixes. It's about cultivating the courage to start, the willingness to listen deeply, and the perseverance to stay engaged, even when the path forward seems uncertain. Lederach’s message is a potent reminder that the future of our democracy rests not in the hands of politicians or pundits, but in our own capacity for empathy, connection, and the unwavering belief in the possibility of a more peaceful future. In a world where division seems inevitable, Lederach offers a powerful alternative: the possibility of building peace, one conversation, one relationship, one pocket at a time.Don’t forget, you can download Pocket Guide for Facing Down a Civil War free on his site, or pick it up on Amazon right here. (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward
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Rebroadcast • How to Keep Your DEI Policies Moving Forward with Edelman’s Faith McIver and Mission Partners’ Nimra Haroon
Jun 26, 202500:25:55Tap to summarizeIn this rebroadcast, we address the Supreme Court's decision on affirmative action which sent shockwaves through institutions across America, leaving many wondering about the future of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Is DEI dead? Or is it simply evolving?On this episode of Mission Forward, Carrie Fox dives into this complex landscape with communications experts Nimra Haroon and Faith MacIver. Nimra, a cultural strategist and communications manager for Mission Partners, and Faith, Senior DEI Manager at Edelman, unpack the nuances of recent legislation and its impact on the workplace. They dissect the tension between a widespread commitment to DEI values and the growing anxieties around legal risks.This isn't just a legal issue; it's a communication challenge. Carrie, Nimra, and Faith explore how companies are responding to criticism and offer actionable strategies for moving forward. They delve into the critical distinction between "risky" and "safe" DEI practices, providing a framework for organizations to navigate this uncertain terrain.This conversation goes beyond buzzwords and platitudes. It's a pragmatic and insightful discussion about building truly inclusive workplaces that benefit everyone. Tune in to discover how to keep DEI initiatives alive and thriving in a post-affirmative action world.Links & NotesMission Partners: Equity Action PlanDitch the DEI Speak • Finding the WordsAdvancing DEI Initiative • Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
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Rebroadcast • From Missions to Movements with Dana Snyder
Jun 12, 202500:29:54Tap to summarizeIn this rebroadcast from season 9, Carrie Fox sits down with Dana Snyder, a digital strategist for nonprofits and the CEO and founder of Positive Equation. Snyder, who has supported organizations like Movember, Dress for Success, and American Idol, shares her insights on how nonprofits can effectively reach new audiences in the ever-evolving digital landscape.Consider, for example, the importance of strategic investment in social media. How are organizations to determine which channels to focus their resources on based on their values and target audience? Snyder emphasizes the significance of data-driven decision-making, recommending tools like Google Analytics and Microsoft Clarity to understand how visitors interact with an organization's website and social media channels. But more importantly, she highlights how most individuals are tilted toward good, and that your audience might just be comfortable in large numbers on platforms you personally find misaligned with your own values. Throughout the episode, Snyder stresses the importance of being genuinely social on social media platforms, creating platform-specific content, and fostering meaningful connections with followers. She suggests that organizations consider hiring virtual assistants to manage their social media presence if it aligns with their budgets and priorities.The conversation also touches on the role of artificial intelligence in content creation for nonprofits. Snyder offers practical advice on how to train AI tools to generate relevant and engaging content while staying true to an organization's mission and values.For nonprofits looking to make the most of their social media efforts, this episode of Mission Forward offers valuable insights and actionable tips from a seasoned digital strategist. Our great thanks to Dana for helping us to navigate the digital landscape authentically. (00:00) - Summer at Mission Forward (00:45) - Ask Carrie! (01:54) - Welcome to Mission Forward (02:39) - Introducing Dana Snyder (09:10) - Is the wide net a positive strategy? (14:29) - The AI Challenge (18:37) - Revenue v Values (20:46) - Making the Most of Social (24:38) - Getting Closer to Your Audiences
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What We Have Learned • Finding The Words
May 29, 202500:06:42Tap to summarizeWhat if the most powerful lesson of leadership isn’t taught in a seminar, but whispered between breaths of reflection? What if the path forward isn’t paved in bold declarations, but in quieter questions — the kind that disarm the default and ask, instead, “How’s your heart?”This week, we close the chapter that was Season 10 of Mission Forward. And with it, we offer a mosaic — not of data or doctrine, but of moments. Diane’s reframing of curiosity. Mitch’s uncomfortable truths. Leonard’s candlelit resolve. Rob and Mariah’s pivot from righteousness to relationship. Nadine’s open-book approach to trust. Erica’s devotion to the sacred smallness of daily practice.Beneath the jargon of strategy and the armor of professionalism lies a simple human truth: communication is an emotional transaction. This season, that transaction yielded six deposits of wisdom — all interest-bearing, if we’re bold enough to invest.Let this be a lamplight flickering on your path — as a leader, as a communicator, as a human being. A chance to reflect on how we lead, how we relate, and the stories we choose to carry forward. Because leadership isn’t a title. It’s a practice. A practice of showing up. Of listening deeply. Of lighting candles when the power fails.Season 10 has ended. The journey has not. We’ll see you this fall — for another season of listening, learning, and moving the mission forward. (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward (02:04) - Ask better questions (02:50) - Let go of comforting lies (03:26) - Light candles (03:58) - Move from righteousness to relationships (04:28) - Transparency builds trust (05:00) - Little leadership practices have big impact (05:36) - Protect the truth
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On Taking Your Soul to Work with Dr. Erica Brown
May 22, 202500:38:37Tap to summarizeWhat does it mean to lead with conviction in a time of crumbling certainties? This week, Carrie sits down with Dr. Erica Brown, Vice Provost for Values and Leadership at Yeshiva University and a scholar whose work resides at the intersection of ancient wisdom and modern workplace complexity. At first glance, this conversation seems to orbit around the familiar themes of leadership and purpose—but as with the best questions, the conversation keeps opening, folding in questions of identity, grief, joy, legacy, and resilience.Erica’s latest book, Morning Has Broken: Faith After October 7th, blends the structure of spiritual meditation with the shock of collective trauma. Today, she offers a theory of leadership that begins not with bullet points or quarterly goals, but with the inner life. It’s about leading with a fully intact spiritual core, one that serves as a center of gravity that steadies you when your compass fails. And in a world where the compass seems to fail more often than not—politically, environmentally, interpersonally—her framework feels not only restorative but essential.Together, they wrestle with one of the most slippery questions of the modern age: What is truth? Not in a postmodern, navel-gazing way—but practically. Tangibly. What truths do we inherit, and which do we pass on? How do we train ourselves to see the people in our offices, our communities, even our inboxes, not as roles but as souls? And what practices—tiny, daily, almost invisible—actually hold us together?For anyone who has ever asked: am I doing enough—am I doing the right kind of enough—we encourage you to engage in this conversation. Through Erica’s deeply generous lens, we’re reminded that sometimes leadership is not about standing out but standing firm. It's not about clarity but conviction. It is not about knowing the answer but having the courage to ask a better question.Links & NotesLearn more about Dr. Brown and her books (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward (01:07) - Introducing Dr. Erica Brown (05:50) - Truth, Trust, and Core Conviction (12:48) - Feedback (18:14) - Stamina (22:34) - Morning Has Broken (29:30) - On Practice (31:50) - Voices of Insipiration
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On Another Note... • Finding The Words
May 15, 202500:04:21Tap to summarizeEarlier this week, I asked my colleagues at Mission Partners, “What song do you put on repeat when you need some calm, comfort, or renewed energy?” The responses were fabulous and included everything from A to Z—literally, ABBA to The Zombies.I collected the songs into a Spotify Playlist and shared it back with the team, with a simple request: Take 10 minutes today with this playlist. Sit on the ground or get out in the fresh air and find a song that speaks to you. Tune out the chaos of the world if just for a few minutes and let music do what it does best... Let the music ground you. Let it calm you. Let it meet you wherever you are.Most importantly, let it be your good excuse for a break today.Enjoy the PlaylistThis short-form episode is part of the Finding The Words column, a series published every Wednesday that delivers a dose of communication insights directly to your inbox. If you like what you read, we hope you’ll subscribe to ensure you receive this each week. (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward (00:53) - On Another Note
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The Impossible Equation of Philanthropy and Learning to Fill Mission Gaps with Nadine Gabai-Botero
May 8, 202500:34:09Tap to summarizeImagine you’re running a nonprofit. You’ve got a mission that matters, a staff that believes in it, and a community that depends on you. And then, without warning, a key piece of funding evaporates. Not because of anything you did—or didn’t do—but because the world shifted, policy changed, or a budget line disappeared in Washington. The grant is gone, the plan is upended, and suddenly the future isn’t just uncertain—it’s fragile.This week, Carrie welcomes back strategist and fundraising expert Nadine Gabai-Botero to sit with the discomfort of our shared reality. Together, they offer a framework, a way to think, respond, and lead in a moment where so many nonprofit leaders are quietly asking themselves: How do I move forward when I can barely hold ground?Nadine shares stories from the field, insights from decades of advising nonprofit leaders, and practical tools for reframing your fundraising case—not just to reflect the urgency of the moment, but to invite donors in as collaborators. From building “resilience funds” to quietly rethinking the purpose of your gala, to using technology to remove friction from giving, Nadine offers a way forward that is both pragmatic and deeply humane.Along the way, they challenge the idea that scarcity must lead to silence. They talk about the courage to be transparent when things aren’t perfect, about engaging lapsed donors as latent allies, and about why resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a posture, a practice, and a way of holding steady in the storm.Somewhere between budget cuts and hopeful pledges, between the noise of a turbulent news cycle and the stillness of a personal letter from a nonprofit director who’s never asked before, this episode becomes what so many leaders are craving: a companion in asking the hardest questions.In the end, this is a conversation about values, vulnerability, and the belief that missions—when stewarded with clarity and courage—do more than survive hard times. They rise to meet them.Links & NotesFocus Fundraising: 15 Years of Collaboration & ImpactConnect with Nadine on LinkedIn (00:00) - The Impact on Non-profits (01:21) - Transparency (05:49) - Managing Risk (08:08) - Movements & Pledges Toward Generosity and Action (11:22) - Donor Action (22:14) - Market Impact and Donor Heistance (24:42) - Lessons for your Notes (27:30) - The Mission Partners Commitment to Give
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Keep the Light On • Finding The Words
May 1, 202500:06:14Tap to summarizeThese days are hard, for all of us, in many different ways. The best we can do is hold the light we have up for others. Because I promise you this: when you hold your light up for others, you will also feel the benefit of its glow.This short-form episode is part of the Finding The Words column, a series published every Wednesday that delivers a dose of communication insights directly to your inbox. If you like what you read, we hope you’ll subscribe to ensure you receive this each week. (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward (00:47) - Keep the LIght On
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