In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I welcome Stephen Minix who shares how a personal setback led to his philosophy of perpetual positivity and a mission to transform how nonprofits use data. Stephen explores the power of aligning “head and heart” — blending measurable impact with human stories — and challenges the sector to move beyond using data for validation toward using it for growth and learning.

Topics We Cover:

• Why “perpetual positivity” is more than optimism — it’s a strategic leadership mindset
• How nonprofits can balance head and heart — using data and storytelling together
• The DCAL framework for turning data into insight: Define, Collect, Analyze, Leverage
• Why funders must shift from rewarding validation to supporting honest learning
• The pitfalls of short-term funding cycles and how they distort long-term impact
• How AI can act as a “nudge” tool to streamline nonprofit operations and free up creative time

To Learn More and Connect with Stephen:

Email Stephen

Stephen Minix on LinkedIn

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In this inspiring episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with Grace-Anna Douglas, founder of Graceful Media, to explore how nonprofits can transform their marketing strategies and amplify their impact. We also tackle how to measure meaningful success, avoid vanity metrics, and use emerging tools like AI responsibly.

Topics We Cover:

• Grace-Anna Douglas’s “superhero origin story” and how volunteering shaped her purpose-driven career
• The creation of Graceful Media and its mission to support small and mid-sized nonprofits
• Why nonprofits must balance fundraising with marketing to sustain long-term growth
• How to identify and prioritize the right marketing channels for your audience
• The value of podcasting—both as a guest and as a host—for relationship-building and brand trust
• Avoiding the “metrics trap” and focusing on results that truly advance your mission
• Cultural insights from international marketing campaigns and how to tailor messaging to different audiences
• The role of AI and out-of-home advertising in modern nonprofit marketing

To Learn More and Connect with Grace-Anna:

Grace-Anna Douglas on LinkedIn

GracefulMedia.co

Email Grace

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Host Alexander Lapa shares a personal update on Agents of Nonprofit.

After 3.5 years and 188 episodes, he reflects on the show’s journey, its value to the nonprofit community, and the financial challenges of keeping it ad-free.

Alexander outlines possible paths forward - from continuing as usual to slowing down or pausing at episode 200 - and invites listeners to share feedback or support the show.

My email: alex@dryadconsulting.com

Website: https://agentsofnonprofit.com

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In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with fundraising strategist and behavioral science expert Cherian Koshy to uncover the psychology and neuroscience behind why people give—and why they sometimes don’t. From reducing friction in donation forms to designing moments of joy and trust, this episode offers a masterclass in building deeper, more intentional donor relationships rooted in empathy and understanding.

Topics We Cover:

• Cherian’s “origin story” in fundraising and what inspired his exploration into donor psychology
• An introduction to Neurogiving and how neuroscience can ethically shape fundraising strategy
• Why generosity is innate—and how to remove the barriers that suppress it
• Reducing friction in the giving experience: from donation forms to mobile optimization
• Turning donations into delightful experiences that celebrate generosity
• Applying behavioral science to attention, emotion, and decision-making in donors
• The power and pitfalls of gamification and visual psychology in donor engagement
• How AI and intentional design can enhance donor relationships without losing the human touch

To Learn More and Connect with Cherian:

The New Book: Neurogiving by Cherian Koshy

CherianKoshy.com

Cherian Koshy on Instagram

Cherian Koshy on LinkedIn

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In this Agents of Nonprofit conversation, I sit down with Maya Hemachandra, an interim executive and veteran fundraiser, to unpack the uncertain and rapidly changing landscape facing nonprofits in 2025. Together, we explore how nonprofits can transform crisis into opportunity through collective advocacy, adaptive leadership, and a renewed commitment to community-driven collaboration.

Topics We Cover:

• The state of widespread funding cuts and instability in nonprofits in 2025
• How advocacy can drive systemic change and protect vulnerable communities
• The real-world impact of AmeriCorps funding cuts and grassroots legal action
• Using technology as a light, invisible amplifier for nonprofit efficiency
• Affordable fundraising and CRM tools for small organizations
• The rise of AI in nonprofits—its promises, pitfalls, and privacy concerns
• The power of fractional talent and interim executives during transitions
• Maya’s “magic wand” wish: a united, collaborative philanthropic sector

To Learn More and connect with Maya:

Maya's Website

Interim Executives Academy

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In this thought-provoking episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with conflict resolution expert Shira May to explore how language, empathy, and emotional intelligence can transform the way we handle disagreements. Together, we unpack the psychology of conflict, discuss when mediation is (and isn’t) appropriate, and reveal how small shifts in language can turn confrontation into collaboration.

Topics We Cover:

• The five classic conflict styles — shark, teddy bear, turtle, fox, and owl — and how to flex between them
• Why conflict isn’t inherently bad, and how disconnection fuels most disputes
• Tools from Getting to Yes and Harvard’s negotiation framework for effective conflict resolution
• The importance of emotional self-regulation before responding in heated situations
• How empathy, storytelling, and vulnerability can bridge political or ideological divides
• Recognizing when a conversation is no longer healthy — and how to set boundaries gracefully
• The future of mediation and how AI might support (but never replace) human connection in conflict resolution

To Learn More and Connect with Shira:

CDSADR.org

E-mail Info@cdsadr.org

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In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I speak with B Michelle Johnson about the art and strategy of advocacy. B Michelle Johnson offers practical insights on building momentum, educating policymakers, and using storytelling to make an impact—all while reframing advocacy as a collective journey rather than a zero-sum battle.

Topics We Cover:

• What advocacy truly means, and why the public—not politicians—is often the real audience
• The power of small but relentless groups versus large one-time mobilizations
• How nonprofits can prepare for and respond to opposition effectively
• Reframing “losing to win” as planting seeds for long-term change
• The role of education in bridging the knowledge gap between citizens and policymakers
• Overcoming scarcity mindset and embracing a bolder advocacy voice
• The importance of storytelling, showing up in person, and using AI tools for advocacy

To Learn More and Connect with B Michelle Johnson:

B Michelle Johnson, CFRE on LinkedIn

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In this episode of Agents of Nonprofit, I sit down with guest Marika Luneau to explore how Generation Z is transforming the nonprofit landscape. The conversation dives into the ways nonprofits can adapt to attract and retain young talent, why giving Gen Z voices a seat in leadership matters, and how personal branding and authenticity will play a defining role in the age of AI.

Topics We Cover:

• Marika’s unconventional entry into nonprofit work through coworking spaces and mission-driven leaders
• How Gen Z defines itself and the values driving their career choices
• Why Gen Z rejects toxic work culture and demands balance, inclusivity, and fairness
• The risks of passion exploitation in entry-level nonprofit roles
• Freelancing and consulting: opportunities, pitfalls, and timing for young professionals
• How Gen Z’s digital fluency (social media, web, AI) modernizes nonprofit communication
• The case for inviting Gen Z voices into boardrooms and leadership spaces
• Personal branding, authenticity, and why it matters more than ever in an AI-driven world

To Learn More and Connect with Marika:

Marika Luneau on LinkedIn

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