Permission slips for nonprofit leaders

In episode 112 of Mission: Impact, Carol Hamilton shares several guests perspectives on the question: “what permission slip they would give to nonprofit leaders or what they would invite them to consider, to avoid being a martyr to the cause and as they work towards cultivating a healthier organizational culture.” Together they:

• Provide thoughtful, actionable advice to foster healthier, more sustainable, and inclusive organizational cultures. 
• Explore why acknowledging your humanity  and engaging in intentional self-reflection is key
• How collaborative team building help leaders avoid burnout, grow personally and professionally, and create a more lasting impact.

​Episode highlights:
[00:02:00] Be Thyself
Rebecca Epstein emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and alignment in leadership, urging leaders to understand their motivations, values, and triggers. She highlights the value of knowing when an organization no longer aligns with one’s growth.
[00:04:00] Acknowledge Humanity
Emily Taylor discusses the need for leaders to see themselves and their teams as humans with limitations. Recognizing when it’s time to let go or step back can lead to healthier organizational dynamics.
[00:06:00] Permission to Be Wrong
George Weiner offers a powerful reminder that leaders don't have to have all the answers. Admitting uncertainty creates space for collective problem-solving and growth.
[00:07:00] Take a Personal Retreat
Patton McDowell advocates for intentional personal retreats as a tool for reflection, strategic thinking, and rejuvenation. These retreats help leaders maintain perspective and prevent burnout.
[00:09:00] Build Other Leaders
Dr. Victoria Boyd champions intentional leadership by empowering and equipping team members to take on leadership roles, fostering a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility.
[00:11:00] Focus Your Efforts
Pooya Pourak highlights the importance of narrowing focus to make meaningful, localized impact while being mindful of collective efforts in addressing systemic issues.
[00:13:00] Envision Abundance
Elizabeth Engel and Shelley Alcorn, inspired by Rebecca Solnit’s reflections, challenge leaders to imagine a future of abundance rather than scarcity, addressing systemic challenges like climate change through hope and collaboration.
[00:15:00] Closing Reflection
Carol encourages leaders to plan their 2025 personal retreats, reflect on their alignment with current roles, and prioritize building and developing their teams. She concludes with gratitude for the audience's engagement and commitment to impactful work.

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Important Links and Resources:
Not Too Late – Rebecca Solnit

Related Episodes:
Episode 91: AI and Nonprofits with George Weiner
Episode 92: Three stages of nonprofit leadership with Patton McDowell
Episode 93: Nonprofit fundraising transparency with Pooya Pourak
Episode 94: Navigating power and conflict within nonprofits with Rebecca Epstein
Episode 95: Building shared nonprofit leadership with Emily Taylor
Episode 96: Nonprofit start up misconceptions with Dr. Victoria Boyd
Episode 97: The business imperative of facing climate change for associations with Elizabeth Engel and Shelly Alcorn