Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast WholeWhale.com

Episode Summary: Navigating Google's Core Update and Nonprofit Impacts
In this episode of the Nonprofit News Feed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler of Whole Whale, and Nick Azoulay, Digital Strategist at Whole Whale, delve into the recent Google core update and its implications for nonprofits. They also cover other significant news, including personnel changes at the Gates Foundation and new grant opportunities from Amazon Web Services.
Main Topics:

Google's March 2024 Core Update:
Impact on Nonprofits: George and Nick discuss how the recent Google core update has led to a substantial decline in organic traffic for many nonprofits, including a 40% drop in some cases at Whole Whale. This update prioritizes content quality and credibility over links, which could disadvantage smaller nonprofits.
Search Generated Experience (SGE): The anticipated rollout of Google's SGE will prioritize AI-generated answers over traditional search results, potentially reducing visibility and engagement for nonprofit websites.


Melinda French Gates Resigns from Gates Foundation:
Transition: Melinda French Gates steps down from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to focus on her personal philanthropic efforts, particularly around women and families. The foundation will now be chaired solely by Bill Gates and renamed the Gates Foundation.
Implications: This significant change could impact the foundation's strategic direction and funding priorities.


Amazon Web Services Imagine Grants for Nonprofits:
Grant Details: AWS is offering grants to nonprofits to leverage cloud technology for mission-critical projects. Categories include Pathfinder Generative AI Award and Go Further, Faster, with awards ranging from $50,000 to $200,000.
Application Window: Open from May 3rd to June 3rd, these grants provide financial support, promotional credits, and implementation guidance.


Black Lives Matter vs. Tides Foundation:
Lawsuit: The BLM Global Network is suing the Tides Foundation for allegedly diverting $33 million meant for them. The case raises questions about fiscal sponsorship and fund allocation.
Fiscal Sponsorship: George explains the benefits and potential pitfalls of fiscal sponsorship for nonprofit organizations.


Feel-Good Story: Arizona Champions of Change:
Awards: Arizona Big Media announces finalists for the Champions of Change awards, highlighting visionary nonprofit leaders in the state. This initiative underscores the importance of recognizing local heroes in the nonprofit sector.

Critical Insights:
Google's Update: Nonprofits must closely monitor their organic traffic and adapt their SEO strategies to maintain visibility. Regular traffic reports and proactive adjustments are essential.
Philanthropic Shifts: Changes in leadership at major foundations like the Gates Foundation can have wide-reaching effects on funding and strategic priorities.
Grant Opportunities: Nonprofits should explore tech-centric grants like AWS Imagine Grants to innovate and modernize their operations.
Call to Action:
Nonprofits should review their organic traffic metrics and SEO strategies in light of Google's core update.
Explore grant opportunities and consider applying for AWS Imagine Grants to boost tech infrastructure.
Recognize and celebrate local nonprofit leaders through community awards and initiatives.

**Embracing the Seasons of Change: A Fresh Perspective on Nonprofit Growth with Michael Randel**
In an enlightening episode of our nonprofit-focused podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Randel, the visionary founder and director of Randel Consulting Associates. Michael, a distinguished member of the nonprofit ISD network, shared his innovative framework known as the "Seasons of Change," offering a fresh lens through which nonprofits can view growth and development. 
**Seasons of Growth: A Gardener's Approach to Nonprofit Expansion**
Michael introduced a compelling metaphor likening nonprofit growth to the cyclical process of gardening. This approach breaks down into three key phases: Preparing, Cultivating, and Harvesting. Each stage demands specific actions and considerations, mirroring the thoughtful stewardship of a gardener tending to their land with an eye towards both present vitality and future sustainability. 
**Preparing Phase: Setting the Stage for Growth**In the preparing phase, organizations are encouraged to assess their current resources and readiness for expansion, much like a gardener evaluates their land before planting. This involves identifying and addressing potential obstacles and ensuring the necessary infrastructure and support systems are in place.
**Cultivating Phase: Nurturing Development**During cultivation, the focus shifts to actively supporting and nurturing growth. This means not only expanding services and outreach but also strengthening internal processes, staff capabilities, and organizational culture to sustain increased scale and complexity.
**Harvesting Phase: Reaping and Reflecting on Success**The final phase emphasizes consolidating gains and integrating new developments into the organization's ongoing operations. It's a time for reflection, celebration of achievements, and strategic planning for the next cycle of growth.
**Challenges and Insights: Beyond Quick Fixes in Fundraising**Michael critically addressed the common pitfalls of rapid expansion, particularly the dangers of scaling up too quickly in response to sudden influxes of funding, such as those from generous donors like Mackenzie Scott. He stressed the importance of holistic growth that enhances the quality and comprehensiveness of services, rather than merely expanding for expansion's sake.
**A Call to Action: Embracing a Holistic View of Growth**The conversation with Michael Randel serves as a call to action for nonprofit leaders to adopt a more nuanced and strategic approach to growth. By embracing the "Seasons of Change" framework, organizations can ensure they are not only expanding their reach but also deepening their impact and securing their sustainability for the future.
**Conclusion: Nurturing Sustainable Growth in the Nonprofit Sector**Michael Randel's insights into the "Seasons of Change" offer invaluable guidance for nonprofits navigating the complexities of growth and development. By adopting a gardener's mindset, organizations can cultivate a thriving future that honors their mission and serves their communities effectively.
 

🌟 Episode Highlight: Adapting to Google's Algorithm Updates and the Power of AI in Nonprofit Marketing
In the most recent episode of Whole Whale's nonprofit news feed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler, alongside digital strategist Nick Pazerle, embarked on a comprehensive discussion beginning with the pressing challenges presented by Google's recent core updates. These updates, particularly those in October 2023 and March 2024, have significantly impacted organic traffic, leading to a 40% drop for Whole Whale. The key takeaway? Google's shift towards prioritizing content that offers genuine value, pushing nonprofits to rethink content creation strategies in the AI era.
🔍 Deep Dive into Deepfakes: A Call for Nonprofit Vigilance
The conversation took a critical turn towards the alarming rise of deepfake technology. A highlighted incident involved a Maryland high school principal falsely accused through deepfake audio, illustrating the urgent need for nonprofits to educate and protect their communities against the misuse of AI. This segment underscores the importance of media literacy and the role of nonprofits in fostering a discerning and informed public.
🐎 Highlighting Horse Racing's Dark Side: A Nonprofit's Crusade
The episode also shone a light on Horse Racing Wrongs, a nonprofit advocating against the cruel realities of horse racing. With a focus on the protest at the 150th Kentucky Derby, the discussion emphasized the ethical considerations and the push for more humane practices within the sport, reflecting on the broader implications for animal rights and welfare.
💡 Google's Bold Move: Addressing Homelessness with Direct Financial Support
An innovative approach to tackling homelessness and poverty in the San Francisco Bay Area was also a topic of discussion, courtesy of Google.org's All Ads Up program. This initiative, which provides up to $1,000 a month to homeless families, is a part of a larger $4.5 billion commitment to improve housing availability. The program's potential to offer a fresh perspective on universal basic income and its impact on housing stability, income, and mental health was highlighted.
🏃 A Feel-Good Finale: The Office-Themed 5K Race for Community Improvement
The episode wrapped up on a lighter note with the story of an Office-themed 5K race in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Organized by the nonprofit Valley in Motion, the event not only celebrated the beloved TV show but also brought together over 1,500 participants globally to support local community improvements, showcasing the power of creativity and community in nonprofit initiatives.

**Whole Whale Podcast Episode: Innovations, Advocacy, and the Future of Nonprofit Strategy**
In this enlightening episode of the Whole Whale Podcast, George Weiner, alongside digital strategist Nick Azoulay, unravels a series of compelling updates and discussions that span the gamut of nonprofit innovation, legal advocacy, and strategic insights aimed at navigating the dynamic landscape of the nonprofit sector.
**Whole Whale's Google Ad Grant Cohort Announcement**George Weiner kicks off the episode with exciting news about Whole Whale's Google Ad Grant Cohort. Despite initial hesitance due to a busy schedule, the overwhelming interest from nonprofits has led to the program's return this summer, starting July 17th. Limited to 25 organizations, with priority given to internal clients, this initiative has been pivotal in advancing nonprofits' capabilities in managing the $10,000 a month Google Ad Grant. The cohort is designed to significantly boost participants' proficiency in digital advertising, akin to training them as members of the Whole Whale ads team.
**Supreme Court's Examination of Homelessness Criminalization**The conversation shifts to a critical legal development as the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) scrutinizes the criminalization of homelessness, spotlighting a contentious case from Grants Pass, Oregon. This case challenges anti-camping laws under the Eighth Amendment, questioning the constitutionality of penalizing the unsheltered when no adequate shelter options are available. Activists and major advocacy organizations argue that such laws exacerbate the homelessness crisis, urging for more humane and inclusive solutions. This discussion underscores the complex, systemic issues surrounding homelessness, with George and Nick expressing deep concerns over the punitive approach and its implications.
**FCC Restores Net Neutrality**The episode then delves into the FCC's landmark decision to restore net neutrality, a move that has sparked debate across political and business spectrums. This reinstatement ensures that broadband providers are classified as common carriers, promoting a free and open internet. While some critics fear it may hinder innovation and increase regulatory burdens, George and Nick highlight the broad support for net neutrality among nonprofits and advocacy groups, emphasizing its importance for equitable access to information and digital rights.
**M&R Benchmarks for 2024**George and Nick analyze the latest M&R Benchmarks report, revealing trends in nonprofit marketing and fundraising. Key findings include a slight decline in online revenue, a significant increase in monthly giving, and the continued dominance of desktop devices for larger donations despite the prevalence of mobile traffic. The data presents a mixed bag of challenges and opportunities, with a notable shift towards increased advertising investments, particularly in radio spending. This segment offers valuable insights for nonprofits looking to refine their marketing and fundraising strategies.
**The Pitch: A Philanthropic Spin on Shark Tank**Ending on a high note, the episode highlights "The Pitch," an innovative event hosted by the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas in North Texas. This philanthropic twist on Shark Tank sees five local nonprofit startups competing for $275,000 in funding, presenting their solutions to community issues before celebrity judges and a live audience. George and Nick applaud this creative approach to fundraising and awareness, recognizing its potential to foster community engagement and spotlight the impactful work of nonprofits.
In closing, the episode not only informs but also inspires, urging nonprofits to embrace innovation, advocate for justice, and strategically navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. With a blend of humor and heartfelt discussion, George and Nick provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments affecting the nonprofit sector.

  📍  📍 So I want to play something for you, but first want to call out that in 1905, John Philip Sousa predicted that recordings like the   📍 phonograph would lead to like the demise, the ruining.  Of music. So I'm going to play this real quick.
  📍  📍  📍  📍  I've been writing till my thoughts expired Found soul in the tunes I've spun  Lost it to the code and data 
There's no telling where my songs have been  Been wondering about the muse that's flown  Hoping notes still flutter better 
All the  cold that replaces The  end Inspiration  from those faces of musicians 
long ago. 
 
  📍 That was created.  By a program called UDIO a U D I o.com, which is absolutely crushing it right now in terms of being able to generate music. Generate music from a just single series of prompts and basic editing inside of an AI driven creation. That is not a human, that is not a musician in the background. 
  📍 That is not. Lifting are stealing direct tracks, though. It clearly has been trained on a massive Corpus of artistic creation.  And it's disturbingly. Good. And I don't know how I feel about that. And I think there's two classical mindsets here.   📍 Ah, there's the party of doom or the sort of party of bloom. 
  📍 More, more is better. More is abundance and I can wear both hats, but going back to that   📍  📍  📍 1905, John Philip Sousa, who was an American composer and conductor. In that late romantic era, he was the primarily known for, I guess, the American military marches. The March king, as he was known.   📍 And his concern encapsulated in the following   📍 quote.  
   📍  📍 The time is coming when no one will be ready to submit. Himself to the enabling discipline of learning music. Everyone will have their ready-made or ready pirated music in their cupboards. The Nightingale song is delightful because the Nightingale herself gives it forth.  
 I think there is an element of truth in that, and, you know, Every single technical advance has always had that party of doom Sayer in it. And.  I'll also note that this is somebody who is coming from a significant amount of privilege in a generation where the,   📍 for example, music of Beethoven could only be appreciated. By those who could afford the entry to the concert halls. 
Not saying other communities didn't have access to music, but it would be music that they were creating. And so.   📍 I think. This is one of those moments where we're going to see people on both sides, but artists especially saying. You know, this has been stolen or trained or lifted. This is going to be, you know, taking our livelihoods.  And I think there's a case to be made on that side for sure. It it's amazingly good. And clearly, you know, there is probably. A folk songwriters singer out there. 
  📍 Who's like, that is basically my voice, but not my voice. Though it is an amalgam of AI generated information.  That was created on it.  However, I also want to say on the party of bloom side, right?   📍 The opportunities that this may grow, the pie, turn more people into musicians, create music for one. How might this may, you know, may even help people may be suffering from certain pain or loss. Or just letting them create something that is just for them and speaks to their experience and helps them. 
  📍 And I think there's maybe some amazing things that can be done if we explore it that way. But.  I don't know what party I'm in right now for this, but I just thought I would, I would bring it.  To.  The nonprofit audience and. I'm just curious about how other folks begin to use this. I encourage you to play with it. And just understand what it can do. 
And that's U D I o.com. And I'm curious about.  Probably more so how you bring this to community stakeholders that it could help potentially unlock more creativity. 
And personal

NonprofitNewsfeed.com
 
Legislation Impacting Nonprofits: A Mixed Bag of Pros and Cons
This week's focus begins with a dive into the Kids Online Safety Act (COSA), legislation aimed at enhancing online protections for minors. Despite its bipartisan support and backing by over 200 organizations, COSA has sparked controversy among nonprofits, with debates centering around free speech concerns and the subjective nature of "harmful content." Critics, including ACLU and the Electronic Frontier Foundation, fear the act could lead to censorship, especially of LGBTQ+ content, under the guise of protecting minors. The conversation underscores the delicate balance between safeguarding youth online and maintaining freedom of expression.
From Climate Anxiety to Action: The Lumisphere Project
In a refreshing shift from policy to action, the Lumisphere project emerges as a beacon of hope in addressing climate anxiety. As part of Visions 2030, this initiative leverages AI and technology to inspire communities towards sustainable futures. By focusing on positive, high-energy engagement, the Lumisphere experience represents a critical pivot in environmental advocacy, moving from despair to actionable solutions. This approach not only motivates current generations but also paves the way for future activists to envision a thriving planet.
Nonprofits Face Legislative Challenges: A Call to Action
The Chronicle of Philanthropy highlights the increasing challenges nonprofits face due to inconsistent regulations and crackdowns on civil liberties. With organizations in the realms of immigration, racial justice, and environmental causes feeling the brunt of state-led restrictions, the need for legal support and strategic board composition has never been more apparent. Nonprofits are encouraged to bolster their defenses by seeking pro bono legal assistance and diversifying board expertise to navigate these turbulent legislative waters effectively.
The TikTok Ban Debate: Navigating Digital and Political Landscapes
As the House votes on a potential TikTok ban, nonprofits and users alike are urged to consider the implications of such sweeping legislation. While concerns about data privacy and foreign influence are valid, the broad powers granted by the ban raise significant free speech and policy issues. Nonprofits relying on TikTok for outreach and engagement should heed the call for diversification, preparing for a future where digital platforms may face increased scrutiny and regulation.
Feel-Good Finale: Kevin Bacon Joins Utah Students for Charity Event
In a light-hearted conclusion to the roundup, Kevin Bacon's visit to Pace and High School in Utah underscores the power of celebrity influence for charitable causes. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of "Footloose," Bacon's participation in packing resource kits for local nonprofits demonstrates the positive impact of blending nostalgia with philanthropy. This event not only brought joy to the community but also provided valuable resources to those in need, proving that sometimes, bringing the bacon back can make all the difference.