In this episode of Nonprofit Vision, Gregory Nielsen sits down with Vanessa Wakeman to explore why communications should be treated not as a “nice to have,” but as a core governance function within nonprofit organizations. Together, they unpack how communications intersects with legal, finance, and program strategy—and why elevating it to the governance level can fundamentally reshape how organizations build trust, engage stakeholders, and advance their mission.

If your organization is still treating communications as an afterthought, this conversation offers a compelling case for rethinking its role as a strategic driver of impact.

Gregory Nielsen sits down with leadership expert Dave Neumann to explore a powerful truth: mission success doesn’t just depend on strategy—it depends on culture.

Together, they unpack how coaching-based leadership behaviors can transform organizational culture, strengthen teams, and ultimately amplify impact. Dave shares practical insights on what it really means to lead as a coach, how everyday leadership habits shape workplace dynamics, and why culture is often the hidden driver behind a nonprofit’s ability to fulfill its mission.

Whether you’re a board member, executive leader, or emerging manager, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about how you show up—and how your leadership style influences the people and purpose you serve.

Are events still worth the effort?

In this episode of Nonprofit Vision, Greg sits down with Justin Goodhew, CEO of Trellis, to explore how nonprofits can modernize event fundraising to unlock new revenue drivers, increase event ROI, and reduce operational strain.

They discuss leveraging technology, rethinking auctions and sponsorships, and turning one-night events into long-term donor engagement strategies.

If your organization hosts an event — or is rethinking one — this conversation will challenge you to make your biggest night work smarter and generate impact well beyond the ballroom. 🎧

Strong boards don’t happen by accident—they are built with intention over time.

In this episode of Nonprofit Vision, Greg is joined by governance expert Mary Kay Delvo for a practical and timely conversation on The Seasonal Board Cycle. Together, they explore how board building is not a one-time task, but a continuous, strategic process that evolves alongside your organization.

Whether your board is growing, transitioning, or simply needs a reset, this episode offers insights to help ensure your governance structure supports your organization’s current and future needs.

Dennis Miller and I dive into What Every Nonprofit CEO Needs to Know: A Guide to Achieving Your Organization’s True Potential. Together, we explore the essential competencies, mindsets, and leadership practices that distinguish high-performing nonprofit CEOs. From strengthening board partnerships and building a mission-driven team to managing strategic priorities, navigating external challenges, and fostering organizational culture, we break down what it truly takes to lead with clarity, confidence, and impact. Whether you’re a new executive or a seasoned leader, this conversation offers practical insights you can put to work immediately to elevate your organization’s effectiveness and long-term success.

Greg sits down with TD Smyers, CEO of BoardBuild, to explore the transformative potential of open source board recruiting. They dive into how nonprofits can leverage transparency, community networks, and data-driven strategies to build stronger, more diverse boards—ultimately driving greater impact for the organizations they serve.

🎙️ In this episode, Greg sits down with Mitch Stein of Chariot to unpack one of the fastest-growing forces in philanthropy: donor advised funds (DAFs). Together, they explore what’s driving the rapid growth of DAFs, key trends shaping how donors use them, and practical strategies nonprofits can adopt to better engage with DAF holders. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or board member, this conversation offers timely insights to help your organization navigate the evolving giving landscape and unlock new opportunities for impact.

Greg sits down with Dacia Moore for an honest conversation about mental health in the nonprofit sector. Together, they explore the unique stressors nonprofit leaders face and share practical, compassionate strategies for preventing burnout, setting boundaries, and sustaining your impact over the long haul. Whether you're an executive director, program manager, or board member, this episode offers timely reminders that taking care of yourself is part of the mission.