What Works: Conversations on Nonprofit Leadership with Marla Moody

Marla Moody
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  • NON-PROFIT

What Works by Marla Moody is a bold, insightful podcast for nonprofit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Each episode dives into the operational heart of mission-driven work - exploring leadership, management, systems, and scaling impact. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive, this show uncovers what truly drives success in nonprofits, featuring strategies, stories, and best practices from real leaders making a difference.

  1. 2D AGO

    SE01E21 - Transforming Grief into Leadership: Navigating Transitions with Purpose | With Burt Rosen

    In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody speaks with Burt Rosen, co-founder of Hold On To Hope, about his journey through personal loss and how it shaped his leadership in the nonprofit sector. They discuss the importance of planned transitions in leadership, the impact of grief on purpose, and the role of transparency in healing. Bert shares his experiences of navigating the pain of having a missing son and how that led to a deeper commitment to serving others in need. In this conversation, Burt Rosen shares his profound journey of empathy and hope stemming from personal experiences with his son, Matthew, who faced homelessness. He discusses the importance of treating individuals with dignity and respect, the complexities of hope during difficult times, and the significance of self-care for leaders. Burt also introduces the 'Hold On to Hope' initiative, aimed at supporting families with missing loved ones, emphasizing community engagement and the need for resources to help those in distress. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :) Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there.  Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/ #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

    44 min

  2. FEB 10

    SE01E20 - How Nonprofit CEOs Build Sustainability Without Burning Out | With Vanessa Volz

    In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody speaks with Vanessa Volz, the president and CEO of Sojourner House, about the complexities and challenges of leading a nonprofit organization. They discuss the importance of sustainability, the growth journey of Sojourner House, the impact of COVID-19 on service demand, and the significance of self-care for nonprofit leaders. Vanessa shares insights on building a supportive organizational culture, the need for long-term solutions for clients, and the importance of having a vision in nonprofit leadership. The conversation emphasizes the critical role nonprofits play in community health and the necessity of collaboration with for-profit sectors to enhance service delivery. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :) Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there.  Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/ #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

    37 min

  3. FEB 2

    SE01E19 - The Power of Community at Conferences: Networking Beyond the Classroom | With Samantha Roe

    The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and connection at conferences, highlighting that while online education is valuable, the real benefits come from personal interactions and relationships formed during informal settings. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :) Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there.  Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/ #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

    34 min

  4. JAN 27

    SE01E18 - "Those People" to "My Neighbor": Leading a Neuro-Inclusive Community | With Edward Amey

    In this conversation, Edward Amey , CEO of Jay Nolan Community Services , discusses the organization's mission to create inclusive communities for individuals with neurodiversity. He shares insights on the importance of changing societal language around neurodiversity, the challenges faced by nonprofits, and the need for community engagement and contribution. Edward emphasizes the value of relationships and the potential of individuals to contribute uniquely to society, highlighting the organization's initiatives in affordable housing and inclusive recreational services. In this conversation, Edward discusses the importance of inclusion in the workplace, emphasizing how individuals with autism can contribute significantly to society. He shares insights on leadership, the necessity of consistent messaging, and nurturing talent within an organization. Edward highlights the importance of valuing employees and creating a supportive culture, while also addressing the balance between profit and people. He discusses strategies for recognizing employee efforts and preventing burnout, ultimately concluding with thoughts on effective leadership and managing change. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :) Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there.  Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/ #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

    36 min

  5. JAN 20

    SE01E17 - Nonprofit Leaders Finish Well: Avoid Burnout, Build Trust & Legacy | With Scott Schubert

    In this conversation, Coach Marla and Scott Schubert discuss the complexities of nonprofit leadership, focusing on the challenges faced by leaders, the importance of creating a joyful workplace, and the need for effective talent management. Scott shares his experiences transitioning from a nonprofit CEO to a for-profit venture, emphasizing the significance of collective decision-making and empowering others in leadership roles. The discussion highlights the emotional aspects of leadership transitions and the importance of preparing organizations for change. In this conversation, Scott Schubert shares his journey as a nonprofit leader, reflecting on the importance of empathy, work-life balance, and the impact of stress on leadership. He discusses the need for leaders to manage their own anxiety to foster a healthier organizational culture. Scott also emphasizes the value of taking time off and the role of technology in streamlining nonprofit operations, allowing for more meaningful human connections. The discussion concludes with insights on embracing change and the future of nonprofit work. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :) Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there.  Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/ #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

    39 min

  6. JAN 13

    SE01E16 - Grant Writing as Social Change: Influencing Funders Beyond Funding | With Abbie Yamamoto

    The conversation explores the grant writing process as a means to reframe the narrative around charity work, emphasizing the importance of agency and leadership among community members. It discusses how negotiating with grantors can lead to social change and larger impacts within communities. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :) Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there.  Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/ #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

    35 min

  7. JAN 6

    SE01E15- Leading Trauma& Adjacent Work Without Losing Empathy or Your Team | With Stacey Efaw

    In this conversation, Coach Marla Moody and Stacey Efaw, director of Sailor Freedom, discuss the challenges and strategies of nonprofit leadership, particularly in the context of emotional health and self-care. They explore the mission of Sailor Freedom in combating sex trafficking, the importance of prevention, and the need for gratitude and celebration of successes within the organization. The discussion also covers staff well-being, the significance of collaboration, and the necessity of strategic planning and delegation in nonprofit work. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :) Are you a Leader who would benefit from Leaders encouraging Leaders, Leave a comment where we can find you of go over to https://www.skool.com/value-based-leadership-8377 and join the community there.  Connect with me:LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachingwithmarla/ #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutprevention #whatworkspodcast #nonprofitleadership #missiondriven #operations #scalingimpact #nonprofitmanagement #leadershipthatinspires #nonprofitexcellence #socialimpact #teambuilding #burnoutpreventionWhatWorks is a bold and insightful podcast for non-profit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive with decades of global experience, the show uncovers what truly makes mission-driven organizations thrive. From scaling systems to building resilient teams and fighting burnout, WhatWorks goes behind the scenes of the world’s most impactful non-profits.

    34 min

  8. 12/30/2025

    SE01E14 - Empowering Youth Through Technology Education | With Megan Steckly

    In this conversation, Coach Marla and Megan Steckly discuss the mission and impact of CompuDopt, a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the digital divide. They explore the organization's innovative approach to providing technology access, digital literacy, and technology education to underserved communities. Megan shares insights on the challenges and growth experienced during the pandemic, the importance of fostering leadership within the organization, and the broader implications of education gaps on economic mobility. In this conversation, Coach Marla and Megan Steckly explore the complexities of leadership, the importance of open-mindedness, and the challenges of hiring the right talent. They discuss the discomfort that comes with leadership roles, the value of diverse teams, and the necessity of adapting to changing environments. Megan emphasizes the importance of starting with a 'yes' mindset and the need for organizations to diversify their revenue streams to ensure sustainability. The conversation also highlights the significance of community involvement and the impact of nonprofit work. We hope you enjoyed this episode of What Works! - Marla and the What Works Podcast team :)

    35 min
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What Works by Marla Moody is a bold, insightful podcast for nonprofit leaders who want to go deeper than surface-level conversations. Each episode dives into the operational heart of mission-driven work - exploring leadership, management, systems, and scaling impact. Hosted by Marla Moody, a seasoned operations executive, this show uncovers what truly drives success in nonprofits, featuring strategies, stories, and best practices from real leaders making a difference.

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