In this episode of I501(c)You, we sit down with estate planning attorney and seasoned nonprofit board chair Mark Martella to explore what makes board service meaningful—and effective. Mark shares powerful lessons from decades of leadership across organizations like the Charlotte County Homeless Coalition, Charlotte County Chamber, and Senior Friendship Centers. From navigating financial crises to developing earned income strategies and building trust with executive leadership, Mark offers practical insights for current and aspiring board members. Whether you're leading a nonprofit or considering joining a board, this episode is packed with real-world advice on governance, fundraising, and finding the right mission fit. Tune in for a candid, inspiring conversation that highlights why nonprofit board service is one of the best ways to grow as a leader.

Mark's Website: https://www.martellalaw.com/

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Mark Martella, Esq. of Martella Law Firm

(04:30) Why do you serve on nonprofit boards?

(06:25) I501(c)3 vs 501(c)6

(08:45) What made you say “yes” to board service?

(10:15) Board chair philosophy

(11:30) Engaging all the board members

(12:40) What makes a good board member?

(14:10) How has being a board member helped you in business?

(16:30) Advice for young people to join a board

(18:00) Encouragement to join a nonprofit board

(19:50) Recapping with Read

Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization.

Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms:

YouTube

Apple Podcasts

Spotify Podcasts

Amazon

iHeartRadio

Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode of I 501(c) You, we sit down with Graeme Watt, Principal and Lead Strategist at Anthem Creative, to explore why digital storytelling is the future of nonprofit fundraising. Graeme shares his powerful journey from launching a grassroots youth nonprofit to leading digital strategy at World Vision, and now running a global creative agency serving hundreds of nonprofits. He breaks down how storytelling drives donor engagement, why your board must prioritize a digital strategy, and how emerging technologies like AI are already transforming philanthropy. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, board member, or fundraiser, this episode will shift your mindset and equip you with actionable insights to thrive in today’s digital-first world.

Anthem Creative's Website

To learn more about S.A.N.:

​S.A.N.'s X Account​

​S.A.N.'s Website​

​S.A.N.'s Impact​

​Interview with S.A.N. and its creators​

​Rainforest Foundation US

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Graeme Watt, Principle at Anthem Creative

(06:00) What do you mean by “digital?”

(07:15) How do you help nonprofits develop a digital storytelling strategy?

(10:10) Getting more funding digitally

(13:15) The importance of storytelling

(15:40) The future/present of AI fundraising and AI agents

(20:30) What is the responsibility of the board in the future?

(21:50) The future of AI for nonprofits and fundraising

(25:00) What is Anthem Creative?

(29:00) Advice to organizations

(32:14) Recapping with Read

Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization.

Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms:

Apple Podcasts

Spotify Podcasts

Amazon

iHeartRadio

Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast

In this episode of I501(c)You – The Podcast for Nonprofit Board Members, marketing leader and seasoned board chair Patricia Courtois shares powerful insights on what makes a truly effective board member and how to bring out the best in others around the table. With real stories from her decades of board service and leadership in the nonprofit and business sectors, Patricia covers everything from how to respectfully partner with a CEO, to navigating board dynamics with retired executives, to the importance of empathy, active listening, and full commitment. Whether you're a first-time board member or a veteran looking to deepen your impact, this episode offers practical wisdom you can put into action today. Tune in to learn how board service can not only shape your leadership—but also strengthen your organization and your community.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Patricia Courtois, Board Chair of All Faiths Food Bank

(04:06) Differences between for-profit and nonprofit experience

(05:35) Why is branding important for nonprofits?

(08:15) What is the board’s role in rebranding?

(09:30) Why is it important for nonprofits to understand PR?

(11:20) Your board members are your biggest ambassadors

(14:10) Changes in philanthropy over the years

(19:00) What makes a good nonprofit board member?

(21:00) How do you engage board members as the board chair?

(24:30) What about serving on nonprofit boards made you a better business leader?

(26:30) What would you say to a younger version of yourself?

(29:30) Recapping with Read

Join us every week as we release a new podcast with information about how you can be the best board member and provide great service to your organization.

Listen to the podcast on any of the following platforms:

Apple Podcasts

Spotify Podcasts

Amazon

iHeartRadio

Visit us at: www.thecorleycompany.com/podcast