Podcast
Nonprofit on the Rocks
Hosted by Matt Kamin · EN
Passionate about making a difference but tired of dry, snooze-worthy industry podcasts? Nonprofit on the Rocks shakes things up with engaging conversations and actionable advice — all served with a drink in hand.
Join Envision Consulting co-founder and nonprofit expert, Matt Kamin, as he and his esteemed (and occasionally tipsy) guests dive into fundraising strategies, leadership challenges, and the latest trends shaping the nonprofit world.
Whether you're a seasoned pro, volunteer, or just here for the drinks, you'll leave with inspiring ideas to amplify your mission.
So pull up a seat, pour yourself something tasty, and join us for thought-provoking chats that spark positive change.
New episodes drop monthly — Cheers!
16episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
S5:E8 "Embracing Ambition" with CEO, nonprofit coach, and author, Jenny Mitchell
Sep 5, 202401:09:40Tap to summarizeMatt talks to Jenny Mitchell, CEO, nonprofit coach, and author of “Embracing Ambition: Empowering Women to Step Out, be Seen and Lead.” The pair discuss the nitty-gritty of fundraising, including mastering the art of uncomfortable conversations and how to stay motivated and confidant when things aren’t going your way. If you've ever thought about starting your own coaching business or wondered if it's time to bring in a coach, we've got you covered. Plus, Jenny reveals that "compassion" literally means “to suffer alongside.” Who knew suffering could be so... comforting?
Transcribe →S5:E7 "Board Talk" with Board Experts, Jonathan Zeichner and Amy Friedman
Jul 18, 202401:10:20Tap to summarizeThis episode is all about boards! Matt talks all things board related with two experts, Jonathan Zeichner and Amy Friedman. All three of the voices on this episode have served as founders, executive directors, board members, and in the case of Matt and Jonathan: consultants. They have seen and experienced “the big board picture” from all angles and perspectives. They know, first hand, the good, the bad, and yes: the ugly. The three share stories from personal experience as well as answer questions from listeners looking to learn more about how to navigate the sometimes-rough terrain of board culture. Matt and Jonathan also talk about Envision Consulting’s newest project: “Board Builders,” a subscription service that is a literal “one stop shop” for all your board service needs, from finding board members, to onboarding and mentoring both them and the staff that supports them.
Transcribe →S5: E6 "Be the Change" Lessons from Ed O'Keefe, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation
May 23, 202401:08:43Tap to summarizeMatt talks to Ed O’Keefe, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation. The pair dive into everything from how a president, whose face is carved on Mount Rushmore, doesn’t already have a library, to how one goes about starting and fundraising for, such a massive project. Additionally, they explore the conservation movement that TR started and the bipartisan support he, and the library named in his honor, have garnered in a divided Congress; the importance of knowing when it’s time to walk away (and, conversely, when it’s important to stay) Ed also sheds light on working for the Emmy winning Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown and discusses his newly published book, “The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt: the Women who Created a President”
Transcribe →S5:E5 "Don't Panic!" A Young Founder's Guide to Getting (and Staying!) in the Game, with Samia Lemfadli from Change Food for Good
May 2, 202401:08:30Tap to summarizeMatt talks to Samia Lemfadli, Founder and CEO of Change Food for Good, a New York City-based nonprofit organization dedicated to making sustainable agricultural technology more accessible to areas affected by food insecurity. The pair discuss both the necessary mindset and practical steps one needs in order to start a nonprofit; how sustainable agriculture addresses food insecurity; how to make a big impact, even on a small budget. And climbing mountains, both figurative and literal!
Transcribe →S5:E4 “Holy Moly! Matts Unite!” A Divine Duo discuss Faith, Humanity and Inclusion with Rev. Matt Hackworth, Senior Leader at L'Arche USA
Mar 21, 202401:14:05Tap to summarizeMatt talks this week to The Rev. Matt Hackworth, a member of senior leadership for L'Arche USA, an organization committed to helping people with and without intellectual disabilities to live in community, together. Matt and Matt come from drastically different backgrounds. Matt Kamin is a Jewish, native Californian. Matt Hackworth is a Christian Reverend from the South. However, the two share a love for spirituality, a strong compulsion for humanitarianism, and a shared compassion for those with intellectual disabilities. Tune in to this thoughtful conversation which centers largely on the overlap of religion and nonprofit work. (Religious organizations typically receive the largest share of charitable donations [around 30%] each year.) And the mission work of many religious organizations connects congregations with nonprofits globally. They also touch on the importance of hiring people with differences and the gifts and opportunities that are missed when people are overlooked.
Transcribe →S5:E3 -- "Nailed It!" Cancer Support Community SGV CEO, Patricia Ostiller on Nonprofit Success and Fearless Fundraising
Feb 8, 202401:02:03Tap to summarizeJoin host, Matt Kamin, as he talks to Patricia Ostiller, CEO of Cancer Support Community Greater San Gabriel Valley, a nonprofit that uplifts and strengthens people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities and breaking down barriers to care. Normally, Matt likes to “Mattsplain” the listeners, educating them on various elements of nonprofit leadership, but in this episode, Patricia took the reins! She “Patriciasplained,” in depth, just how she was able to lead a 3.8 million dollar capital campaign for a new building (you read that right) as well as enlightened us about how to engage your board and hold them accountable with contracts and scorecards. And Matt and Patricia share thoughts on the challenges of fundraising and reaching donors. Hints: be fearless and take “no” as “not right now.”
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