Podcast Summary: Ep 225: The Secret to Sustainability: Taking Care of Yourself as You Lead

Podcast Information

• Title: Nonprofits Are Messy: Lessons in Leadership | Fundraising | Board Development | Communications
• Host: Joan Garry
• Episode: Ep 225: The Secret to Sustainability: Taking Care of Yourself as You Lead
• Release Date: March 29, 2025
• Description: Joan Garry, former Executive Director of GLAAD, provides insights and support to nonprofit CEOs, Boards, Fundraisers, and Marketers.

Introduction In Episode 225 of "Nonprofits Are Messy," host Joan Garry, alongside guest Glenda Testone, delves into the often-overlooked aspect of sustainability in nonprofit leadership: self-care. The episode emphasizes that while sustaining a community or mission is crucial, leaders must also prioritize their own well-being to maintain long-term effectiveness and prevent burnout.

Sponsorship Message The episode begins with a sponsorship message from DonorPerfect, highlighting their all-in-one fundraising platform designed to simplify donor management, communications, and reporting for nonprofit leaders, allowing them to focus on their core mission of changing lives. [00:00]

Guest Introduction: Maryam Habib Glenda Testone introduces Maryam Habib, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma, and an educator, facilitator, and trainer. Maryam's expertise lies in supporting nonprofit leaders, particularly those from marginalized communities, to navigate personal and professional challenges.

Understanding Sustainability in Leadership Glenda Testone sets the stage by defining sustainability as the ability to maintain or support something over time. She highlights a critical insight: most nonprofit leaders focus on sustaining their mission but neglect the importance of sustaining themselves in their leadership roles. Maryam Habib addresses this by sharing her experiences and strategies to help leaders maintain their well-being while leading effectively. [04:00]

Maryam Habib’s Journey Maryam recounts her early experiences that shaped her path as a helper. She describes participating in the "Natural Helpers" program in eighth grade, which recognized students as peer supporters and provided training on listening and effective communication. Growing up in a nurturing immigrant community instilled in her a sense of collective responsibility and empathy. A significant personal loss—the early passing of her mother before her ninth birthday—deepened her empathy and ability to support others in pain. [05:13 - 10:00]

Impact of Identity and Belonging The conversation shifts to the intertwined concepts of identity and belonging. Maryam explains that a strong sense of identity can fuel commitment and pride but also makes leaders more vulnerable to suffering, especially when they serve communities to which they belong. This duality can intensify both the highs and lows of leadership roles. [14:25 - 15:15]

Purpose and Path in Leadership Maryam discusses how purpose and path are not static but evolve over time. She contrasts the popular notion of finding a singular, unchanging purpose with the reality that leaders must continually reassess and adapt their mission and methods. Using the metaphor from Judy Brown's poem "Fire," Maryam illustrates the need for flexibility and perspective to keep the "fire" of purpose burning without being doused by the complexities of leadership. [20:38 - 23:00]

Do’s and Don’ts for Sustainable Leadership

Don’ts:

1. Martyrdom and Overwork: Maryam warns against the romanticization of exhaustion and overworking, which can lead to burnout and resentment. Glenda shares a personal anecdote about being pressured to work despite experiencing anxiety, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries. [27:00 - 28:51]
   • Maryam Habib [27:22]: “It’s like a major pitfall, and it’s like a huge hole in the sidewalk as soon as you step out the door right there.”
2. Lacking Self-Awareness: Failing to recognize when one is overwhelmed or neglecting self-care can disrupt relationships and organizational health.
3. Overemphasis on Achievement: Focusing solely on metrics and performance can erode trust and lead to a performative leadership style, as opposed to authentic and vulnerable leadership. [32:27 - 33:54]

Do’s:

1. Establish Healthy Boundaries: Maryam emphasizes the importance of boundaries not as barriers but as containers that protect and sustain one's energy and commitment.
   • Maryam Habib [37:44]: “Boundaries create the container within which your yes is authentic.”
2. Invest in People: Building and developing staff and leadership within the organization ensures long-term sustainability and allows leaders to delegate effectively, preventing feelings of being trapped. [38:11 - 38:46]
3. Build a Support Network: Creating a robust network of peers, mentors, and support systems is crucial. Leaders should not attempt to navigate challenges alone but lean on their support systems for assistance and guidance. [38:46 - 39:35]
4. Attend to Personal Well-Being: Prioritizing self-care by maintaining physical health, engaging in reflective practices, and nurturing relationships outside of work is essential for sustained leadership. [41:07 - 41:56]

Final Words of Wisdom As the conversation concludes, Maryam offers three key takeaways for leaders seeking sustainability:

1. Do Your Inner Work: Engage in self-reflection and address personal wounds to prevent them from affecting professional relationships and organizational dynamics.
2. Don’t Go It Alone: Leverage support networks and build strong teams to share the load.
3. Attend to Your Life Beyond Work: Maintain a balance by tending to physical, mental, and relational well-being outside of professional responsibilities. [42:58 - 44:37]

Glenda Testone echoes these sentiments, sharing personal growth experiences and the vital role of authenticity and vulnerability in building trust within organizations. She underscores the importance of leaders taking care of themselves to foster healthier, more resilient nonprofits. [44:36 - 46:38]

Conclusion The episode wraps up with heartfelt appreciation for Maryam Habib’s insights and a reminder of the significance of self-care in sustaining both leaders and their organizations. Joan Garry and Glenda Testone extend their gratitude to listeners and sponsors, encouraging nonprofit leaders to prioritize their well-being to continue making impactful changes in the world. [47:33 - 48:17]

Notable Quotes

• Maryam Habib [15:15]: “The highs are higher and the lows hit harder.”
• Maryam Habib [27:22]: “It’s like a major pitfall, and it’s like a huge hole in the sidewalk as soon as you step out the door right there.”
• Maryam Habib [37:44]: “Boundaries create the container within which your yes is authentic.”
• Maryam Habib [44:39]: “And there's those relationships to yourself, to your loved ones, to your community. That's why we're there in the first place.”

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize Self-Care: Nonprofit leaders must take proactive steps to maintain their physical, mental, and emotional health.
• Set Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries helps protect personal well-being and fosters authentic leadership.
• Invest in Teams and Networks: Building strong teams and support networks ensures sustainability and prevents leaders from becoming overwhelmed.
• Embrace Authenticity: Being genuine and vulnerable builds trust and strengthens organizational culture.
• Continuous Self-Reflection: Regularly engage in self-reflection to adapt and grow within leadership roles.

By integrating these practices, nonprofit leaders can achieve long-term sustainability, ensuring they remain effective and fulfilled in their mission-driven work.