I Was Told There Would Be Snacks: A Nonprofit Podcast KUDZUKIAN

Have you ever made a terrible mistake while writing a grant or said the wrong thing during a meeting with a foundation? Don't worry, you're not alone. In this episode, grant writer Sara Baker and Tiffanie Grier of Assisi Foundation of Memphis share their insights on how to avoid the most common grant writing pitfalls and what to say when foundation trustees ask you that dreaded question about sustainability. Tune in and learn how to write a grant that will impress foundation trustees and win you the funding you need.

Quitting your job can be a tough decision, but it doesn't have to be a messy one. In this episode, Amanda McCollum of Adams Keegan and Forrest Alton of 1000 Feathers discuss how employees can quit their jobs with dignity and how employers can create a smooth transition for outgoing staff.  Whether you're an employee thinking about quitting your job or an employer looking for ways to improve your offboarding process, this episode is for you.

As a nonprofit professional, your knowledge can help policy makers who need - and often want - your input. In this episode, lobbyist Adam Nickas of Capitol Resources, LLC discusses how to build healthy, productive relationships with your legislators and how to position yourself as an expert on your organization’s mission and the communities you serve.  

Thousands of rural nonprofits are currently serving communities throughout Tennessee. Unfortunately, their hard work sometimes goes unnoticed, and their voices aren't represented at many decision-making tables. In this episode, Matthew Marshall of United Way of West Tennessee and Ellen Collins of Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofits and Philanthropy discuss why rural nonprofits should matter to metro nonprofits, our legislators, and our funders.

Have you ever worked for a nonprofit that felt like a cutthroat competition? Where everyone hoards resources, collaboration is frowned upon, and people lose sleep over fundraising challenges? In short, a nonprofit with a scarcity mindset. In this episode, Hal Cato of Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee and Hannah Lancaster of United Way of Greater Chattanooga discuss how an abundance mindset and an abundance culture can lead to more effective, collaborative nonprofits and lessen the stress of employees within your organization. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, board member, or staff member, this episode is for you. Learn how to create a more positive and productive workplace, and how to achieve your mission more effectively.

Impact measurement is often seen as extra work to satisfy funders, but it's actually a way for nonprofits to grow, pivot, and better serve their communities. In this episode, guests Brian Straessle of Sycamore Institute and Chrystal Armstrong Brown of United Way of Greater Knoxville discuss why continuous improvement should be a priority for nonprofits and how data can shed light on opportunities for growth. We'll also talk a lot about hot dogs!