In episode 10 of the Nonprofit State of Minds podcast, David Chatham sits down with Kimberly Tissot, CEO of Able South Carolina, for a conversation that challenged some of our own thinking, and will likely challenge yours, too. Kimberly makes a powerful case that good intentions aren't enough. When we create housing, employment, programs or services for people with disabilities without actually listening to people with disabilities, we can unintentionally reinforce the very barriers we're trying to remove.

Her challenge to nonprofit leaders is refreshingly practical: Where are the people with disabilities?
On your staff?
On your board?
At the table when decisions are being made?

And are they simply represented—or do they have real authority and influence? We talk about disability-led leadership, representation without tokenism and what Kimberly calls investing in the "infrastructure of ordinary life." It's an important conversation for anyone leading, funding or serving through a nonprofit.

Give this latest episode of Nonprofit State of Minds a listen. And be prepared to have some assumptions challenged.

In episode 09 of the Nonprofit State of Minds podcast, David Chatham and L. Ron Pringle from Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, discuss the leadership lessons behind Ron's new book, "When Vision Meets Reality: Authentic Leadership for the Messy Middle." Spoiler alert: authentic leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about showing up with courage, humility, and purpose when leadership gets hard. Be sure to check out Ron's book here.

In episode 08 of the Nonprofit State of Minds podcast, David Chatham and Derric Bakker, from Dickerson Bakker, discuss Derric's new book, "A Better Way to Fundraise." They cover his take on innovative fundraising strategies, the impact of AI on philanthropy, and how nonprofits can build stronger donor relationships. What is the better way? Listen in to find out. You can check out Derric's book on Amazon at this link.