What does it look like to use data not just to report, but to change outcomes at a national scale?In this episode of the Common Good Data Podcast, Roger and I are joined by Michelle Dunivan, Senior Director of Insights and Analytics at Best Friends Animal Society. Michelle shares how Best Friends uses data, partnerships, and trust-building to advance its bold mission of making the entire United States a no-kill nation.We talk about the realities of animal welfare as an under-resourced social sector, the lack of standardized data across communities, and how Best Friends has built one of the most comprehensive animal welfare data systems in the country. Michelle explains how data can help shift policy, guide local practice, and “myth-bust” the idea that things are only getting worse, even in challenging times.This conversation is also about something bigger than animal welfare. It’s about how nonprofits can use data ethically, transparently, and collaboratively to improve outcomes, build trust, and create collective impact across an entire field.In this episode, we discuss:- Why animal welfare data is uniquely challenging and deeply local- How Best Friends collects and uses data across thousands of shelters- The role of trust, transparency, and relationships in data sharing- How data can support continuous improvement - What nonprofits in any sector can learn from this approachIf you’re interested in evaluation, data strategy, collective impact, or using information to drive real change, this episode offers powerful lessons that extend far beyond animal welfare.

What does it actually take to lead well in 2026—especially when resources are tight, expectations are high, and the work is complex?

In this solo episode of the Common Good Data Podcast, I share three practical, leadership-level moves nonprofit and social sector leaders can make this year to strengthen impact and make data work for you (instead of becoming another burden).

You’ll hear a clear framework you can apply immediately—whether you’re leading a team, reporting to funders, or trying to get out from under data overload.

In this episode, I cover:

• Clarity: getting laser-focused on mission, priorities, and what success actually looks like

• Impact: choosing measures that matter (and pairing them with stories so your work is understood)

• Funding: connecting your impact evidence to stronger fundraising and funder relationships

If you’re heading into 2026 thinking, “We need a simpler, stronger way to explain what we do and why it matters,” this episode is for you.

In this special year-end episode of the Common Good Data Podcast, I share 12 evaluation reflections for the new year, inspired by The 12 Days of Christmas. As we wrap up the year, I wanted to slow things down and reflect on what I’ve been learning and what I hope to carry into my data and evaluation work in 2026.

Throughout the episode, I talk about why it’s so important to rediscover your “why”, listen before measuring, and simplify your data practices so they actually support your mission instead of overwhelming your team. I also reflect on the balance between stories and statistics, and why meaningful evaluation always needs both to truly communicate impact.

I share thoughts on prioritizing data use over data collection, approaching evaluation as a learner rather than a prover, and re-centering equity by sharing power in how we define success. Along the way, I emphasize building relationships around data, celebrating small wins, and investing in your team’s capacity so evaluation becomes a source of learning and growth — not frustration.

I close the episode with a reminder to lead with hope. Even in a challenging year, evaluation can help us make sense of change, stay grounded in purpose, and imagine what’s possible as we move into the year ahead.