As 2025 wraps up, we're reflecting on what inspired us—and what's ahead. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah share five themes shaping nonprofit work right now.

Community coalitions are sparking change. Advocacy is finding its voice. Board governance is having a moment. And new leaders are rewriting the story of what nonprofits really are: the backbone of our communities.

This is about momentum and hope. Whether you're planning your next move or just want to feel connected to something bigger, this conversation will remind you why the work matters—and that you're not doing it alone.

Question to consider before listening:

What's one strength your organization discovered in 2025 that you're excited to grow in the year ahead?

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend. Want to request a topic? Email us at nonprofitradioshow@gmail.com.

You can also follow us on these social media channels:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/nonprofitradioshow
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nonprofitradioshow
• Twitter: @smallnonprofits
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-radio-show/

You got this.

Every so often, it’s important to pause and ask: How are we really doing? In this episode of the Nonprofit Radio Show, Nancy and Sarah explore practical ways nonprofit boards and staff can take stock of their organization’s health and direction.

From classic tools like SWOT to strengths-based approaches like SOAR, and from balanced scorecards to simple dashboards and lifecycle models, you’ll hear how these frameworks help teams move beyond gut feelings to evidence-based decisions.

Assessment isn’t about judgment—it’s about clarity. It’s a chance to gather insight, involve more voices, and make sure your organization is focused on what matters most. Whether you’re gearing up for strategic planning, setting next year’s budget, or just need a reset, this episode will help you choose the right tool and use it to guide your next steps.

Question to consider before listening:

What might you learn if your board or staff took a clear-eyed look at how your organization is doing right now?

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend. Want to request a topic? Email us at nonprofitradioshow@gmail.com.

You can also follow us on these social media channels:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/nonprofitradioshow
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nonprofitradioshow
• Twitter: @smallnonprofits
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-radio-show/

You got this.

Your budget is more than a spreadsheet. It's a map that guides your organization toward its goals and a mirror that reflects what you truly value. In this episode, Nancy and Sarah explore how to build a budget that aligns with your mission and sets you up for success in the coming year. They discuss why starting with values makes tough decisions easier, compare two approaches to budget building (blank sheet or prior year), and explain why budgeting works best as a team sport with staff and board working together. Whether you're creating your first budget or refining your process, this episode will help you see budgeting as one of your most powerful storytelling tools.

Question to consider before listening:

What does your current budget say about what your organization values?

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend. Want to request a topic? Email us at nonprofitradioshow@gmail.com.

You can also follow us on these social media channels:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/nonprofitradioshow
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nonprofitradioshow
• Twitter: @smallnonprofits
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofit-radio-show/

You got this.