ALCHEMY can be defined as "a seemingly magical process of transformation or creation," according to the Oxford English Dictionary. This podcast exists to tell the stories of entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders (doing just that, in their industry). Welcome to Industry Alchemist, formerly Colorado A-List. In each episode, we learn about the journey of the brave souls carving a new path, moving their industry and our lives forward in an extraordinary way. The host of the show is Matt Br ...
…
continue reading

1
Nonprofits Are Messy: Lessons in Leadership | Fundraising | Board Development | Communications
Joan Garry
Joan Garry: Nonprofit Leader and former Executive Director of GLAAD helps fellow CEOs, Boards and Board Chairs, Fundraisers, and Nonprofit Marketers
…
continue reading

1
Episode 61-Keep Control of All of Your Data Using Blockchain Technology
45:40
45:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:40The rise of artificial intelligence and quantum computing has drastically accelerated our ability to complete tasks, solve complex equations, develop innovative solutions, and cure diseases—all in a fraction of the time and effort than it recently used to take. But with every technological leap comes the risk of misuse. In this episode, Matt sits d…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 231: Improving the Nonprofit Talent Search (with Omar Lopez)
55:57
55:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:57Attracting top talent to your nonprofit isn’t about luck—it’s about alignment. Talent search expert, Omar Lopez shares what it takes to find (and keep) the right people in today’s competitive hiring landscape.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep. 230: Think Big: How Capital Campaigns Fuel Long-Term Growth (with Amy Eisenstein)
49:19
49:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:19What if a capital campaign could be your nonprofit’s ticket to long-term growth? Fundraising expert Amy Eisenstein joins the podcast to bust common myths and share practical insights from decades of experience. From feasibility studies to board engagement, she lays out what it really takes to run a successful campaign—no wealthy board members requi…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 229: Imposter Syndrome Is Real—6 Ways To Overcome It
26:30
26:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:30Many nonprofit leaders feel like they’re just one mistake away from being “found out.” Even experienced executives, including myself, wrestle with that nagging voice of doubt, especially in moments of high visibility or pressure. But instead of letting imposter syndrome win, here are 6 tangible strategies.…
…
continue reading
Nonprofits are under attack in 2025—from hostile federal policies, harmful public misconceptions, and risk-averse boards. Glennda Testone and I urge nonprofit leaders to push back, speak up, and lead with boldness and creativity. Despite the challenges, we spotlight moments of hope and courage from organizations stepping up to protect communities a…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 227: What Challenging Times Make Possible with Michael Hyatt
45:56
45:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:56What if challenging times are invitations to redefine what matters most? Michael Hyatt shares what helped him redefine success, and find a fulfilling way to live and lead.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep. 226: Nonprofits in the Chaos of 2025: What’s At Stake And How to Respond
49:47
49:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:47The nonprofit sector is under attack. But, there’s hope. In this episode, Glennda Testone and I talk with Amol Sinha about the unique harms facing nonprofits and how we can all take action to protect our missions.By Joan Garry and Glennda Testone
…
continue reading

1
Ep 225: The Secret to Sustainability: Taking Care of Yourself as You Lead
48:38
48:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:38Nonprofit leadership can be deeply meaningful—and deeply exhausting. In this powerful conversation, Glennda Testone and trauma specialist Mariam Habib explore what it takes to sustain yourself while serving others. From setting boundaries to building resilience, this episode is a roadmap for leading with purpose and preserving your well-being.…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 224: Fighting Loneliness In Remote Work with Dr. Tracy Brower
47:06
47:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:06Work can be a source of joy and fulfillment—but only if we feel connected. In this episode, Dr. Tracy Brower unpacks why we’re feeling more isolated than ever—and what leaders can do to build workplaces where people actually feel like they belong.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 223: Activating Change: Fighting Ableism and Building Accessible Nonprofits
44:26
44:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:26Disability is not a niche issue—it’s a reality for 60 million Americans. Yet, systemic bias and stereotypes continue to exclude people with disabilities from conversations about inclusion. In this episode, Nancy Smith of Activating Change shares practical steps nonprofits can take to build truly accessible and equitable spaces.…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 60-Creating Thriving Partnerships in Panama
40:49
40:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:49Panama is thriving with new opportunities for those looking to live, work, and invest abroad. While modern infrastructure development has been a slow process in some areas for decades, progress has been accelerating each year. In this episode, Matt interviews Anne-Michelle Wand, an American expat who has been living in Panama full-time for 15 years…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 222: The Joys and Challenges of Leading A Small Nonprofit (with members of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab)
1:00:46
1:00:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:46Three fearless nonprofit leaders share what drives them, how they navigate burnout, and the vision that keeps them going. Tomik Dash, Laura Carmichael, and Adrienne McCue are breaking barriers and sharing their stories that prove that small but mighty nonprofits are changing lives every day.By Joan Garry and Glennda Testone
…
continue reading

1
Ep 221: Building Organizational Capacity For Rapid Response (with Deepa Iyer)
48:35
48:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:35From the Atlanta spa shootings to ongoing challenges, Deepa Iyer highlights the critical need for infrastructure, relationship-building, and centering the voices of affected communities in times of crisis.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 220: 5 Strategies for Leading Nonprofits in 2025
27:25
27:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:25Whether you’re grappling with turbulent times or striving for greater impact, these strategies will help you navigate 2025 with clarity and purpose. Join me for a conversation that will leave you inspired, equipped, and ready to take on the year ahead. Let’s buckle up and face this journey together.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 219: Simplifying Success: How Project Management Can Transform Nonprofit Leadership (with Christie Machorek)
45:04
45:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:04Nonprofit leaders often feel overwhelmed by endless tasks, but project management guru, Christie Machorek, shares insights about how to transform chaos into clarity. With simple strategies like celebrating wins and debriefing after projects, she shows how to create systems that free up time to focus on what truly matters.…
…
continue reading

1
Ep. 218: 2024 In Review: A Heartfelt Reflection on Leadership and What Lies Ahead
39:47
39:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:47I sit down with Glennda Testone, CEO of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab, to unpack personal and professional lessons from 2024. Together, we discuss navigating change, embracing resilience, and how nonprofit leaders can strengthen their organizations for the challenges ahead.By Joan Garry and Glennda Testone
…
continue reading

1
Ep 217: Why We Must Reframe The Narrative Around Gen Z
48:29
48:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:29Bianca Anderson and Lamisa Mustafa join me in a conversation about shifting the stereotypes and misconceptions about Gen Z. Whether you're grappling with workforce challenges or striving to lead inclusively, this episode will equip you with insights and tools to turn generational differences into an asset.…
…
continue reading
Iara Peng guest appears on the podcast to discuss redefining philanthropy, what her company Just Fund is doing to equalize and simplify giving, and the one word that moves money.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 215: The Worst Headline Just Hit The New York Times. Now What? (with Seth Chalmer)
48:20
48:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:20Seth Chalmer’s insights on crisis management will help you navigate today’s challenging social landscape as a nonprofit leader. This conversation gives tools to spark valuable conversations that can create clarity and confidence the next time your organization faces a hot-button topic and needs to respond.…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 214: Productive Conversations in Polarizing Conflicts (with Parisa Parsa)
48:32
48:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:32Nonprofit Leadership Lab CEO, Glennda Testone, and Parisa Parsa explore how nonprofit leaders can have productive conversations amidst polarization and division. Parisa shares practical strategies for addressing power dynamics and leading productive conversations across differences.By Glennda Testone
…
continue reading

1
Ep 213: Racial Dynamics in Nonprofit Fundraising (with Mikaela Levons + Jamila Hodge)
57:02
57:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:02Jamila Hodge and Mikaela Levons from Equal Justice USA join the podcast to discuss the challenges and strengths of fundraisers of color. We explore how race, white supremacy power dynamics, and lived experiences shape their approach to fundraising and leadership.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 212: Street Cred, Trust Capital, and Impact-Focused Fundraising (with Michael Thatcher)
53:35
53:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:35I sat down with Michael Thatcher, CEO of Charity Navigator, to explore how nonprofits can use data to build trust with donors and move beyond the outdated focus on overhead. Michael shared valuable insights on how nonprofits can better engage donors, make the right asks, and thrive in today’s challenging giving environment.…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 211: The Maverick Marketing Approach (with Seth Godin)
45:13
45:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:13Seth Godin, the marketing GOAT, shares a fresh, transformative approach to nonprofit marketing. He reveals how understanding and aligning with your donors' emotions can significantly enhance your strategy.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 210: Scaling Social Impact: Strategies for the Small Nonprofit (with Scott Curran)
51:00
51:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:00One-third of all nonprofits fail within 10 years, and 30% of the 1.5 million nonprofits in the U.S. have budgets under $100,000, putting them at significant risk of failure. To address this challenge, Scott Curran, CEO of Beyond Advisors, shares his expertise on how growth-stage social impact enterprises can strengthen their core, define their uniq…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 59-The Team Sport of Running Business (and Guidance From Ancient Wisdom Traditions)
46:04
46:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:04Rich Crum received his Master´s degree in Telecom Management from the University of Denver and has an impressive background in delivering solutions in that space. In 2012, he joined forces with James Cosman to co-found, VeilSun, which delivers value-based innovation for business with cloud applications that hold key data and workflows of all shapes…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Glennda Testone and I dive into real-life scenarios where we've had to make tough decisions and say no. Our intimate conversation offers practical tips on navigating common leadership challenges with confidence and diplomacy.By Joan Garry and Glennda Testone
…
continue reading

1
Ep 208: Bring Back the Joy of Giving (with Allison Fine)
43:03
43:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:03Allison Fine and I discuss the need to transform nonprofit fundraising from a transactional to a relational model, leverage technology to build meaningful donor relationships, and create a more sustainable and joyful fundraising environment.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 207: From Walmart to Feeding America (with Claire Babineaux-Fontenot)
48:44
48:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:44Like me, Claire Babineaux-Fontenot moved from the corporate world to the nonprofit sector with zero previous experience in nonprofit work. In this episode, she shares her inspiring story of how and why she shifted her focus to step into her most impactful work yet.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 206: The Nonprofit Sector’s PR Problem – And How We Can Fix It
10:41
10:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:41The nonprofit sector has a serious PR problem that impacts its ability to garner adequate support. Nonprofit leaders have a powerful opportunity to be ambassadors and advocates for the sector as a whole. In this episode, I make a poignant call to action for nonprofit leaders everywhere to rally to the side of saving public perception of the importa…
…
continue reading

1
Episode 58-A New Era: Integrating Ancient Medicine with Talk Therapy
47:53
47:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:53This episode´s guest has an incredible story of impact in the mental health space. After receiving his Doctorate degree in Psychology, Brett Donnelly co-founded Acacia Counseling & Wellness which provides counseling services to college students across the country. Acacia was courted by a strategic buyer and sold, 7 years from inception, to Mindpath…
…
continue reading
Let’s discuss collective nonprofit power - what it is, what it isn’t, and what the nonprofit sector could do to harness it. To do more good in the world, we need to stand in our collective power which includes, ironically, taking a seat at the table.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading
Need to build capacity? Fix your fundraising? Graphics design or marketing? HR support? Then you need to know about Catchafire, an organization that is bridging paths to stronger communities by aligning nonprofits with expert volunteers.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Episode 57-The Business of Holding Space for You
58:42
58:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:42Have you ever heard the term “holding space for someone”? In a nutshell, it means to actively listen without judgment. That is the foundation for the company, Sholder, which is short for “Space Holder.” Rett Kearbey, Co-Founder of the company, speaks with Matt about an essential need in the human psyche that he envisions being within reach for ever…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 203: Can You Answer These 10 Funder Questions?
22:09
22:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:09Congrats! A funder is considering donating to your nonprofit and they have questions. For some, this request instills panic. Here is how to prepare!By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 202: The Master of Mobilizing Movements (with Jeremy Heimans)
41:43
41:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:43Since he was 8 years old, Jeremy Heimans has been mobilizing movements that galvanize people for social change. He is the guru to ask about how to reach people and motivate them to take action. In this episode, he shares his insights.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 201: Cultural Intelligence: A Major Key to a Thriving Nonprofit (with Dr. Pablo Otaola)
52:07
52:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:07You’ve heard of IQ and EQ. But, CQ is the third intelligence that empowers a nonprofit leader to mightily drive the mission with the strong, rallying support of a unified team. Listen in to learn what CQ is, how it works, and why it matters in the nonprofit landscape like never before.By Joan Garry and Glennda Testone
…
continue reading

1
Episode 56-Connecting the Head and Heart for Your Highest Potential
52:01
52:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:01Our guest on this episode has built her career by beautifully blending organizational psychology, cutting-edge business strategies, innate leadership, and a passion for the mind-body-spirit connection that ties everything together. A great example of the apex of these talents coming together was in the medical industry just as the pandemic hit. It …
…
continue reading

1
Ep 200: The 200th Episode: Gratitude & Observations About This Amazing Journey
22:33
22:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:33Releasing episode 200 of the Nonprofits Are Messy podcast is a milestone. It has been a journey full of insights, observations, and a big fat “I told you so”. This is a look back at how far we’ve come together.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Episode 55-The Art of Mindful Collaboration
53:06
53:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:06“You can have everything in life you want, if you just help others get what they want first.” Michael Graziano paraphrasing the late author, motivational speaker, and sales professional, Zig Ziglar. Michael Graziano made it his mission to travel to every country in the United Nations and in so doing became one of the youngest people to visit all 19…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 199: The Fearless Election Year Fundraising Plan (with Tom Kissane)
41:05
41:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:05Conservative and risk-averse boards tend to lower expectations and pull back on fundraising during an election year. In this episode with Tom Kissane, Vice Chairman of CCS Fundraising, he shares compelling reasons to go boldly forward with your organization’s fundraising efforts in 2024.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 198: Challenging the Status Quo in Long-Standing Organizations (with Cica Dadjo)
51:19
51:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:19What is the secret to implementing DEI strategy in long-standing nonprofit organizations? Cica Dadjo, Chief GEDI at the IRC, shares universal lessons that can help nonprofit leaders disrupt the status quo of organizational culture.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 197: Stop Calling It Microaggressions: A Call To Action To Intercept Subtle Acts Of Exclusion (with Dr. Tiffany Jana)
44:18
44:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:18It is a misnomer. There is nothing ‘micro’ about microaggression. What is the real meaning of microaggression, what should it truly be called, and how can a leader recognize and take action to tackle it? Dr. Tiffany Jana shares her insights, why she has stopped using the word ‘crazy’, and what organizations can do to create a culture of awareness.…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 196: How Risky Is AI For Nonprofits? (with Beth Kanter)
45:57
45:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:57Organizations around the world are using artificial intelligence to improve processes, delegate tasks, and drive progress. What do nonprofit leaders need to know?By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Episode 54-A Conscious Paradigm Shift in How Leaders Think About Their Business
44:04
44:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:04How do you define “success?” Attaining a desired outcome that you have worked hard for? Does that success bring you fulfillment? What if you still have a feeling of emptiness? Finnian Kelly, a successful multi-million dollar entrepreneur and now keynote speaker, author and transformational coach explores this very topic with Matt. Drawing from Finn…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 195: Conflict Resolution and Finding the Third Ground (with Ken Cloke)
52:07
52:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:07World-renowned conflict resolution expert, Ken Cloke, shares his secrets for overcoming conflict using proven strategies from his mediation practice that have brought "impossible" conflicts to peace across the world for 4 decades.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Episode 53-Sharing the Knowledge of Wealth from a Wealth of Knowledge and Vision for a Better World
53:29
53:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:29Matt Brower connects with Ron Carson, CEO and Founder of one of the fastest-growing financial firms, Carson Wealth. Ron describes how he started the company and the underlying theme that has been a major contribution to its success. Aside from money matters, Ron has a bigger picture in mind for himself and the world. It can be difficult for peopl…
…
continue reading

1
Ep 194: Leaders of Color in Nonprofits: Challenges and Opportunities (with April Frazier Camara)
57:22
57:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:22In this episode, I chat with April Frazier Camara about how diversity is the secret sauce in nonprofit leadership. Her insights? Eye-opening. You'll see our sector in a whole new light.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 193: Is “Martyritis” Killing Your Organization? (with Kishshana Palmer)
41:12
41:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:12In our sector, time often feels like a scarce resource. You're likely juggling countless tasks, believing that maximum productivity is the key to fulfilling your mission. But what if we're approaching time all wrong?By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 192: Embracing Our Finite Time (with Oliver Burkeman)
45:49
45:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:49In our sector, time often feels like a scarce resource. You're likely juggling countless tasks, believing that maximum productivity is the key to fulfilling your mission. But what if we're approaching time all wrong?By Joan Garry
…
continue reading

1
Ep 191: How to Build Amazing Work Relationships (with Michael Bungay Stanier)
46:26
46:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:26Great work relationships lead to greater job satisfaction and higher employee retention. Michael Bungay Stanier shares with us his recipe for designing our work relationships to thrive.By Joan Garry
…
continue reading