Nonprofit Leadership Podcast: Episode Summary

Title: It’s Not Just Passion But Your Patterns That Move Your Organization Forward
Host: Dr. Rob Harder
Guest: Alex Goler, CEO of Wasteless Solutions
Release Date: July 28, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Dr. Rob Harder delves into the critical balance between passion and systematic patterns in effective nonprofit leadership. Dr. Harder sets the stage by questioning, “What are the patterns, the systems, the processes that you put in place in your own leadership journey and for your own organization?” [00:55]

Guest Background and Motivation

Alex Goler, the CEO of Wasteless Solutions, shares her profound dedication to the social impact sector. Reflecting on her early aspirations, Alex mentions, “By the age of 12, I was telling everyone that I had set my sights on joining the Peace Corps” [03:16]. Her commitment is fueled by a desire to engage in mission-driven work, stating, “I truly can't imagine doing work that isn't mission driven” [04:05].

Passion vs. Patterns in Leadership

Dr. Harder introduces a pivotal theme: while passion is essential for motivating teams and driving missions, it alone isn't sufficient for achieving lasting results. He emphasizes that "patterns, the systems, the processes" are what truly propel organizations forward [04:55]. Alex concurs, illustrating how systematic approaches complement her passion in her leadership role.

Leadership Routines and Systems

Alex outlines her approach to maintaining organizational alignment and personal productivity. She employs various project management tools to stay hyper-organized and ensures that her daily tasks align with the organization's strategic goals. “I keep a pretty consistent list of what my accomplishments are related to my job description and then I color code that based on our strategic plan” [05:57]. This method not only tracks progress but also facilitates comprehensive reporting and reinforces the connection between daily activities and broader mission objectives.

The Art of Saying No

A significant part of effective leadership, as discussed, is the ability to set boundaries by saying no. Dr. Harder notes, “it's not so much your yeses that count, it's the nos that really make a difference” [06:30]. Alex shares her experience combating mission creep at Wasteless Solutions by adhering strictly to their core pillars: food rescue, neighborhood nourishment, and education. She states, “If it doesn't fit in one of those three pillars, we have to say no” [07:21]. This clarity ensures the organization remains focused and effective.

Leadership Journey: Resilience and Adaptability

Alex reflects on her challenging tenure with the Peace Corps, highlighting the resilience it instilled in her. “There were a lot of days that I was thinking, I cannot do this two years, I'm not going to make it” [07:45]. This experience taught her the value of persistence and the wisdom to recognize when to pivot, enhancing her adaptability as a leader.

Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses

Effective delegation is crucial in nonprofit leadership. Alex discusses her strategy for balancing personal strengths with organizational needs: “I look at my big picture goals, the tasks that are in front of me where I need more support and I kind of will then either look to a staff member or maybe even a board member” [12:23]. By acknowledging her limitations and leveraging her team’s strengths, she maintains organizational efficiency and fosters a collaborative environment.

Challenges in the Nonprofit Sector

Fundraising emerges as a significant challenge. Alex shares the emotional and logistical difficulties of securing funding, stating, “fundraising... can be incredibly time-consuming” [14:51]. She highlights the rarity of funders who offer not just financial support but also flexibility and partnership, which are essential for long-term sustainability.

Changes Post-COVID and Funding Landscape

Post-COVID, there's been a positive shift towards more unrestricted funding. Alex notes, “private foundations and individual funders... are offering more capacity building support or operational support” [17:38]. This trend allows nonprofits like Wasteless Solutions to allocate resources more effectively towards their mission rather than being restricted to specific projects.

Partnerships and Collaboration

Collaborative efforts with local food pantries and the Utah Food Bank are vital for Wasteless Solutions. Alex explains, “the Utah Food bank will reach out to us... to fulfill that gap” [22:51]. These partnerships enhance food distribution efficiency and ensure that rescued food reaches those in need promptly.

Advice for Aspiring Nonprofit Leaders

Alex offers valuable insights for those entering the social impact sector:

1. Broaden Your Passion: “Casting your net a little bit wider... can translate to a nonprofit or to the... social impact sector” [24:43].
2. Seek Mentorship: “finding a good mentor... can often be done through alma mater” [24:42]. Mentorship provides guidance and accelerates professional growth.
3. Flexibility and Openness: Being open to various roles and causes can lead to discovering deeper passions and broader impact.

Wasteless Solutions Overview

Wasteless Solutions focuses on diverting edible food from landfills to those in need, thereby addressing both food insecurity and environmental sustainability. Alex details their operations: “We rescue over 2 million pounds of food since our founding in 2018” [20:42]. Additionally, the organization educates the public on the environmental benefits of reducing food waste, emphasizing the role individuals can play in combating climate change.

Conclusion

Dr. Harder and Alex conclude the discussion by reinforcing the importance of systematic leadership and the impactful work of Wasteless Solutions. Alex encourages listeners to connect with their organization through social media, their informative website, and upcoming events like the Second Chance Dance [28:40]. Her final remarks underscore the urgent need for continued efforts in food rescue and environmental education.

Notable Quotes:

• Dr. Rob Harder [00:55]: "What are the patterns, the systems, the processes that you put in place in your own leadership journey and for your own organization?"

• Alex Goler [04:05]: "I truly can't imagine doing work that isn't mission driven."

• Alex Goler [05:57]: "I keep a pretty consistent list of what my accomplishments are related to my job description and then I color code that based on our strategic plan."

• Alex Goler [07:21]: "If it doesn't fit in one of those three pillars, we have to say no."

• Alex Goler [12:23]: "I look at my big picture goals, the tasks that are in front of me where I need more support and I kind of will then either look to a staff member or maybe even a board member."

• Alex Goler [14:51]: "Fundraising... can be incredibly time-consuming."

• Alex Goler [17:38]: "Private foundations and individual funders... are offering more capacity building support or operational support."

• Alex Goler [22:51]: "The Utah Food bank will reach out to us... to fulfill that gap."

• Alex Goler [24:43]: "Casting your net a little bit wider... can translate to a nonprofit or to the... social impact sector."

• Alex Goler [24:42]: "Finding a good mentor... can often be done through alma mater."

This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the nuanced balance between passion and structured systems in nonprofit leadership, enriched by Alex Goler’s practical experiences and strategic insights. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on maintaining organizational focus, overcoming fundraising challenges, and fostering effective partnerships to drive meaningful social impact.