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What happens when a neuroscience researcher turned ethical fashion entrepreneur accidentally founds a nonprofit and lives to tell the tale? She builds a course to stop you from making the same mistakes. This week, Matt sits down with Sharmon Lebby — founder of the Nonprofit Launch Academy — to dig into what it really takes to build a nonprofit from scratch — the right way. Sharmon shares lessons from her own founder journey, including the mistakes that led her to create a comprehensive eight-module course for aspiring nonprofit founders. From why your friends make terrible board members to why you should plan your exit before you even open the bank account, this episode is a masterclass in doing good without losing your mind.0:00 — Cold Open & Guest Intro Sharmon Leby's scenic route: neuroscience researcher → ethical fashion entrepreneur → accidental nonprofit founder. Matt teases the full lineup: boards, paying yourself, succession, and when to say no to a friend with a nonprofit dream. 4:00 — Neuroscience, Fashion & the Accidental Nonprofit How a biology degree, a spontaneous clothing line, and five women in sustainability led to Sharmon's first nonprofit — by sheer hubris. She learned she had no clue what she was doing. Matt reassures: none of us do. 8:00 — Boards Make or Break You Sharmon's biggest early mistake: recruiting friends instead of building a strategic board. Matt's rule: a great board = great org, a terrible board = game over. How to start with a skills assessment. 11:45 — The 5 Board Archetypes & When to Pay Yourself The five people every board needs — from a compliance mind to a community voice. Then: when can a founder realistically start taking a salary? Sharmon says build a "dream budget" from day one. 13:48 — Succession Planning Starts on Day One Counterintuitive but critical: planning your exit from the beginning means better systems, better infrastructure — and the ability to actually take a day off without the org collapsing. 18:40 — The 5:1 Pay Ratio Hot Take Matt's first ED job paid $55K. Now he places people making $400K. Sharmon advocates the 5:1 rule: no CEO earns more than 5× the lowest-paid employee. They both agree: if your staff needs a second job to survive, you don't get to make $400K. 22:55 — Failure, Luck vs. Skill & Nonprofit Launch Academy Getting comfortable with messing up. Matt asks his favorite interview question — lucky or skillful? — and they disagree. Plus: how the Academy was born from watching founders repeat the same mistakes (named with help from a thesaurus). 24:37 — Great Ideas, Terrible Ideas & What Makes a Strong Founder A brilliant nonprofit bridging US and African entrepreneurs under AGOA. A terrible one funneling grant money back into a for-profit. And the qualities that separate a strong founder from an ego-driven one. 28:35 — When to Start, When to Join & When to Walk Away Another org already does what you want? Find the gap — or go volunteer there first. And when Sharmon says don't: if you can't track money, won't do compliance, or want to shuffle funds, the IRS will come for you. Start a for-profit instead. 32:11 — Success Story & "Build Slow" The student who tried to skip to the last module and file her 501(c)(3) immediately — then realized she needed the basics. Sharmon's advice to her younger self: build slow. Plus two warning signs your nonprofit isn't sustainable. 38:14 — Where to Find Sharmon & Why Hire Her Find her at blesseddesignsco.com, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Threads ("where I make all my enemies"). She reads between the lines and gives words to what founders feel but can't articulate. Eight modules, build-as-you-go. 42:45 — Outro with Ashley: Lake Arrowhead Edition Ashley joins from a lake because Matt bailed for a six-month-waitlist restaurant that turned out to be terrible. Plus the great Halloween decorating debate and a recap of Sharmon's episode.

Two nonprofit podcast hosts. Zero rehearsal. One refreshingly honest conversation. Matt Kamin (Nonprofit on the Rocks) and Meghan Speer (Nonprofit Hub) team up for the first-ever crossover between their shows — and it's basically two friends geeking out over everything wrong (and right) with the nonprofit world. They get into the real talk fast: how to tell client stories without exploiting people, whether AI is about to change how donors decide who to support, and why nobody can agree on the "right" board size. Along the way: a hot take on why "executive director" undersells one of the hardest jobs in America, a hard line on never passing a budget in the red (your endowment is not a safety net!), a case for more nonprofit mergers, and a rant about leaders who care more about their "legacy" than the mission itself. Candid. A little chaotic. Occasionally emotional. Packed with hard-won wisdom from two people who've spent their careers in the trenches — exactly what happens when you put two podcast hosts in a room and tell them to just talk.

State of the Nonprofit Worker Report (SNWR) Spoiler: it's not a K-pop band. It's the data initiative that's about to make your next board meeting way more interesting. In this episode, host Matt sits down with Allison (Envision Consulting) and Efrain (Center for Nonprofit Management) to talk about the State of the Nonprofit Worker Report — the survey aiming to answer the question every nonprofit leader is whispering at happy hour: are we in a silent recession, or does it just feel that way because we're all running on coffee and will power? What you'll learn: • Why this report goes way beyond "just another compensation survey" (yes, they know you're tired of those too) • The elephant-in-the-room questions: federal funding cuts, the AI panic, and whether remote work is actually dead or just resting • Why quality-of-life metrics — like childcare, living wages, and whether you can actually pay your bills — matter more than a salary number on a spreadsheet • How CNM and Envision teamed up to be the "convener" and "data hub" so nonprofits stop making six-figure decisions based on vibes and anecdotes • A truly inspired tangent about an $8,000 laundry-folding robot and why that, too, counts as AI we can get behind Whether you're filling out the survey as an individual or as an organization, the hosts want you to know: yes, it's a big ask, and yes, they know surveys are the bane of your existence. But without your data, there's no story — and no story means no change. Learn more and take the survey at cnmsocal.org.

This week, Matt sits down with Rob Harter — host of the Nonprofit Leadership podcast, coach, consultant, recovering executive director, and self-described "hopeless romantic" who still believes you can change the world. (We checked. He means it.) Rob spent three decades in the social impact sector, most recently leading a humanitarian organization in Park City, Utah — yes, that Park City, the one where people ski and pretend they've never heard of a food pantry. Spoiler: they have one. A really good one. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: • Why the nonprofit world is harder than it looks (and why that's kind of the point) • A community garden that thrived for two years and then... didn't (RIP, solar pump) • Why your work and your worth are not the same thing — and why most of us need a therapist to actually believe that • The three traits of great leaders: humility, listening, and a healthy ego check (two out of three ain't bad, but you really need all three) • Why 75% of podcasts die before their first birthday — and what Rob thinks separates the survivors Whether you're a seasoned executive director, a wide-eyed nonprofit newbie, or just someone who wants to make a difference without burning out completely, this one's for you.

Two podcast hosts walk into a recording session. One's drinking Eagle Rare bourbon at 3pm in LA. The other is sipping a Pinot Grigio she smuggled back from Italy. Neither has ever co-hosted before. What could go wrong? Turns out — nothing. This week, Matt hands over (half of) the mic to Julia Campbell, host of Nonprofit Nation, and the result is one of the most honest, wide-ranging conversations we've had on this show. They cover the real stuff: why so many nonprofits are treading water, why your donors don't need a polished brand campaign (they need the truth), and why the difference between marketing and fundraising might be the most important thing your organization isn't thinking about. Julia also makes a compelling case that you, your phone, and zero budget is all you need to build a following – just ask her client, a force of nature who single handedly helped end the dog meat trade in China. Oh, and they get into A.I. Because of course they do. Julia's take? Stop being intimidated and start treating it like an intern. Matt's take? ChatGPT designed his tattoo, so he's basically already married to it.

We’re trying new things! In this special, mini-episode, host Matt Kamin introduces a new segment we’re calling, “Around the Office”, featuring conversations with the talented team of nonprofit experts at Envision Consulting. This inaugural episode welcomes the smart and funny Associate Director, Jessie Stegner, to discuss the future direction of the podcast and what nonprofit professionals really want to hear. KEY TOPICS: Why this podcast matters: The importance of creating content that helps nonprofit professionals feel seen and less alone in their struggles. Upcoming content plans: Focus on practical, actionable advice for nonprofit professionals. WHAT’S NEXT: First Around the Office episode: How to get a job in the nonprofit sector – featuring insider knowledge on resumes, interviews and what organizations are really looking for. Merger Deep Dive: Matt interviews his business partner and co-founder of Envision Consulting, Allison Fuller about nonprofit mergers. ABOUT ENVISION: Envision Consulting specializes in strategy and executive recruiting exclusively for nonprofits across the country. WHERE TO LISTEN: • All major podcast platforms • YouTube (audio episodes) • Website: www.envisionnonprofit.com GET INVOLVED: Have questions, topic ideas or guest suggestions for the show? Reach out to producer Ashley: [email protected]

In this special Thanksgiving episode of "Nonprofit on the Rocks," host Matt Kamin welcomes back Michael Thatcher, CEO of the nonprofit rating website, Charity Navigator, for an insightful conversation about the state of the nonprofit sector in America. Together, they discuss the challenges facing nonprofits today, including declining public trust, reduced government funding, and the increasing need for community support. Michael shares inspiring stories of generosity, explains how Charity Navigator empowers donors to make informed giving decisions, and highlights the vital role nonprofits play in everyday American life. The episode also covers practical ways listeners can give back—whether through donations, volunteering, or joining a nonprofit board—and ends with a heartfelt reminder of the importance of gratitude and collective action. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in making a positive impact during the holiday season and beyond.

Matt is joined by Liz Lin, CEO of the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, to discuss the profound impact of the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. The conversation covers challenges faced by both the community and first responders, the critical role of the Foundation, and practical steps for preparedness and recovery. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: • Firsthand accounts of emergency response and the emotional toll on firefighters • The mission and work of the LAFD Foundation in supporting firefighters with essential equipment, resources and station upgrades • The importance of community support for first responders, including appropriate ways to show appreciation. • Guidance for homeowners and families on disaster preparedness, evacuation planning and recovery resources. • The ongoing needs of the LAFD and how public support makes a difference. RESOURCES: • Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: supportlafd.org • LAFD official information: lafd.org

What really happens when you put two nonprofit insiders in a room and ask them to solve the sector’s toughest hiring puzzles? In this episode, we sit down with Tom O’Connor, founder of TOC Arts Partners, to decode the mysteries of executive search, organizational strategy, and the human side of leadership. Tune in for a conversation that goes beyond résumés and reference checks. Tom shares why the best searches start with curiosity, how to spot the difference between a good candidate and the right candidate, and why transparency is the ultimate retention tool. Along the way, we explore the subtle art of “discovery,” the realities of uncertainty in the nonprofit world, and the power of building teams that are more than the sum of their job descriptions. Highlights include: • The “knife fight in a phone booth” reality of today’s talent market • How to turn candidate feedback into organizational growth • Why culture fit is more than a buzzword (and how to get it right) • The secret to making hiring less transactional and more transformational • Tom’s take on humility, humor, and the impact sector’s future Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, a job-seeker, or just someone who loves a good story about people making a difference, this episode is your invitation to rethink what it means to build a great team.

It's a new season of Nonprofit on the Rocks! Host Matt Kamin is a nonprofit expert whose wealth of experience, wit and wisdom will help your nonprofit not only tackle today's challenges, but will also help build a stronger foundation for lasting impact in the future.

Tis the season of giving--giving thanks, giving gifts, and giving money to your favorite charities. To help you “navigate” the complex charitable giving landscape, Matt talks to renaissance man, Michael Thatcher, the CEO of the nonprofit rating website, Charity Navigator. The pair discuss what makes a “good nonprofit;” how you measure impact; and the importance of strong leadership. They also delve into how you incorporate feedback into management; the possibility of a 360 review of Executive Directors; and the never-ending debate surrounding the controversial “80/20” rule that arbitrarily governs nonprofits’ financials. And did you know they recently launched a program called “Causeway” that allows you to give to “cause” instead of a single charity? It’s essentially a mutual fund that spreads your donation to multiple orgs supporting the same mission. Whether you’re a donor looking for where and how to give, or a nonprofit looking for how to get more traction or accurate information about your org on the site, this show has it all!

In this lively and heartfelt episode, Matt dives deep into the world of nonprofit with his longtime pal, Dr. Cid Pinedo, President and CEO of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation. Cid shares his inspiring journey from aspiring priesthood in East LA to becoming the CEO of MAOF; his passion for helping under-resourced communities; the importance of serving with dignity; the challenges with government funding for nonprofits; and discovering the surprising love seniors have for Zumba! Along the way, the friends share plenty of laughs, sips of tequila and bourbon, and heartfelt anecdotes about life's detours, the audacity of confidence, and the profound impact of helping others. Whether you're into nonprofit work, curious about Sid’s billion-dollar dreams for MAOF, or just need some inspiration—and a laugh—this episode is for you! SHOW NOTES: 00:00 Opening quote from Cid 00:21 Meet Your Host and Producer: Matt and Ashley 01:18 Celebrating Growth and Success 02:13 Family and Listener Engagement 03:41 Surviving the Heatwave 04:51 Matt's Radio Face and Sid's Introduction 06:09 A Heartfelt Conversation with Sid 07:20 Sid's Journey into Nonprofit Work 10:35 The Importance of Impact and Service 18:02 Balancing Leadership and Connection 21:16 Guiding Principles and Mentorship 31:10 Mentorship and Unexpected Opportunities 33:03 Creating a Welcoming Environment as a Leader 34:48 Ambitious Growth Plans for MAOF 38:34 Balancing Growth and Quality of Service 41:10 Engaging and Motivating Board Members 49:43 Challenges with Government Funding 54:07 Overview of MAOF's Services and Impact 57:33 Final Thoughts and Inspirational Messages

Matt talks to Jenny Mitchell, CEO, nonprofit coach, and author of “Embracing Ambition: Empowering Women to Step Out, be Seen and Lead.” The pair discuss the nitty-gritty of fundraising, including mastering the art of uncomfortable conversations and how to stay motivated and confidant when things aren’t going your way. If you've ever thought about starting your own coaching business or wondered if it's time to bring in a coach, we've got you covered. Plus, Jenny reveals that "compassion" literally means “to suffer alongside.” Who knew suffering could be so... comforting?

This episode is all about boards! Matt talks all things board related with two experts, Jonathan Zeichner and Amy Friedman. All three of the voices on this episode have served as founders, executive directors, board members, and in the case of Matt and Jonathan: consultants. They have seen and experienced “the big board picture” from all angles and perspectives. They know, first hand, the good, the bad, and yes: the ugly. The three share stories from personal experience as well as answer questions from listeners looking to learn more about how to navigate the sometimes-rough terrain of board culture. Matt and Jonathan also talk about Envision Consulting’s newest project: “Board Builders,” a subscription service that is a literal “one stop shop” for all your board service needs, from finding board members, to onboarding and mentoring both them and the staff that supports them.

Matt talks to Ed O’Keefe, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation. The pair dive into everything from how a president, whose face is carved on Mount Rushmore, doesn’t already have a library, to how one goes about starting and fundraising for, such a massive project. Additionally, they explore the conservation movement that TR started and the bipartisan support he, and the library named in his honor, have garnered in a divided Congress; the importance of knowing when it’s time to walk away (and, conversely, when it’s important to stay) Ed also sheds light on working for the Emmy winning Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown and discusses his newly published book, “The Loves of Theodore Roosevelt: the Women who Created a President”