Lessons from Leaders

Lynne Gilliland
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  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

This podcast is dedicated to sharing leadership stories from the international nonprofit and other global sectors. We highlight the amazing leaders working to make a difference and learn from their stories. Each guest is hand selected by the host, Lynne Gilliland has worked with individuals, teams and organizations throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Previously, she was a senior manager with a larger US-based NGO, as well as Country Director for their Honduras program and Team Leader for West, Central and Southern Africa.She holds a graduate degree in International Agricultural Development from the University of California at Davis and is certified in tools such as MBTI, Emotional Intelligence, Strengths Deployment, Retreats that Work and various other 360 feedback assessments. Lynne was a Peace Corps volunteer in Costa Rica and is fluent in Spanish.

  1. Yes, to Doing Hard Things

    JUL 15

    Yes, to Doing Hard Things

    Say “yes” to the tough stuff!  That was the big lesson I learned as I sat down with Aleksander Dardeli, COO of Save the Children, in this edition of Lessons From Leaders.   Aleks’ story is proof that the most meaningful impact comes from leaning into challenges with optimism, curiosity, and a belief in what’s possible. From his early days in Albania, where he helped spark change as a student leader, to guiding Save the Children’s global mission, Aleks shows us that growth and transformation come to life from doing hard things.      “Leadership styles are not born. They grow. They are our evolutionary response to circumstances, who we are, and our passion to drive change.” Uplifting Lessons for the NGO World Aleks’ childhood under communism helped him learn through adversity, and his role in Albania’s student movement taught him the value of human freedoms and personal initiative. He credits his family for nurturing his imagination and resilience, and he’s always on the lookout for new ideas.      “I find reading to be key to building a strong imagination. And I find a strong imagination to be one of the key ingredients of resilience.” As he leads a team across 54 countries, Aleks shares with us how he has learned to absorb complexity and turn it into progress.      “Reducing complexity too much leads to simplicity that sometimes is foolish. Leaders  must absorb complexity and make action possible.” And is it possible to lead a mission with meaning?  Absolutely!  For Aleks, a real partnership starts with a clear, focused mission. And trust is at the heart of everything Aleks does.      “It all starts with that mission. The organizations joining forces must align at the level of the mission. And by mission, I don’t mean a generalized mission… I mean a specific mission. Trust is built by staying true to your mission, being consistent, and demonstrating benevolence.” What’s the secret sauce to a mission with meaning? A team, hungry for change. Aleks looks for organizations with a proven record of adaptability and a spirit of innovation at every level. He is passionate about technology and AI and urges NGOs to “speed up our pace” so the sector can lead.      “If you’re looking at two different teams with a high appetite for change, I think you have a good start.” Why Say Yes to Hard Things? For NGO Leaders: Aleks’ journey is a masterclass in turning obstacles into opportunities in a changing environment.For Changemakers: His story is a reminder that agency and imagination are the keys to resilience and lasting impact.For the Sector: This episode is a rallying cry: embrace the hard stuff, invest in your people and technology, and never lose sight of your mission.Thank you, Aleks, for this motivating sit-down.  Are you ready to be inspired? I invite you to listen to Aleks’ inspiring words and say “yes: to doing hard things, and discover how bold leadership, a clear mission, and a love of learning can shape the future of nonprofit impact!

    29 min
  2. Building Cultures of Belonging: Insights on Leadership and Identity

    10/02/2024

    Building Cultures of Belonging: Insights on Leadership and Identity

    I am thrilled to share my latest conversation. Why? Because Venus Devnani, Executive Vice President of American Jewish World Service, is not just fabulous; she brings an interesting perspective to the NGO table. This conversation is not just worth listening to; her thoughts on honoring different perspectives and making room for multiple truths directly apply to our work in the development sector.  One of the highlights of our conversation is Venus’ viewpoint on how understanding different experiences can develop stronger, more compassionate leaders in building space for true empathy. Adding to her insights, Venus states it perfectly, "Slowing down and learning vulnerably are key to understanding others' experiences." A key question I ask guests is, "What key events have shaped your leadership style?" Two of her prime examples fall into buckets relevant to the development sector: identity and belonging. Venus is a first-generation American. Her parents immigrated from India and Indonesia to the US, leaving behind a life, a country, and a family. Her experiences as a first-generation high school graduate and first-generation college graduate reflect her feeling out of place. Yet these experiences are noted as stepping stones in her identity awareness and leadership style. "There’s a lot of pressure to be an ambassador for your race or identity. I had to unlearn the expectations imposed on me and relearn who I really was."  Venus’ reflection on the weight of identity inspires her to create spaces of belonging in leading others. "I find it so gratifying now to work with others who also experienced a lack of belonging. As leaders in mission-driven spaces, it's our responsibility to create cultures where every individual feels seen, valued, and included. True belonging isn’t just about fitting in; it’s about embracing the richness of our diverse experiences and using that to build stronger, more inclusive communities." Thank you, Venus, for sharing your thought-provoking journey of navigating identity, belonging, and justice. Your inspiring words on embracing cultural roots and fostering inclusivity will help NGO leaders deepen their leadership understanding in our diverse world. Tune in now to hear Venus’ invaluable perspectives.

    29 min
  3. Transformative Leadership: The Ultimate Guide for High-Impact Strategies

    10/02/2024

    Transformative Leadership: The Ultimate Guide for High-Impact Strategies

    In this episode of Lessons from Leaders, Sharif Aly, President of the International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), shared his unique and game-changing insights on leadership in our conversation.  This journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring, showcasing remarkable resilience, vision, and innovation. From navigating the challenges of being the eldest son of immigrant parents to shaping his career in the wake of 9/11, Sharif’s story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and unwavering dedication.  In our conversation, he shared his masterclass in crisis management. His tenure at Islamic Relief USA saw him confront disinformation head-on and lead through some of the most intense crises. His experiences highlight the importance of staying true to the mission while adapting to rapidly changing circumstances and with conviction. Sharif stated: "True leadership is about staying committed to your mission, even as you adapt to the landscapes around you." Throughout the podcast, I was inspired as I listened to Sharif's insights on making tough decisions and prioritizing the greater good. He offered invaluable advice for any leader aiming to make a meaningful impact. His practical guidance on balancing organizational needs with team motivation is essential for future-ready leaders and one you will want to take advantage of. Sharif emphasized creating high-performing cultures through psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and clear communication, fostering support and innovation. He described a particularly fun metaphor we can all relate to, likening the CEO to a bus driver, as he stated:  "A CEO is like a bus driver, ensuring everyone is on board and moving in the right direction with strategic vision and meticulous attention to detail.”  One of the most profound takeaways from our conversation was Sharif's perspective on embracing failure. He passionately encouraged leaders to take risks, learn from mistakes, and continuously strive for improvement, highlighting the transformative power of resilience and innovation. Thank you, Sharif, for our conversation packed with actionable insights and heartwarming stories. Tune in now and let Sharif’s incredible journey and wisdom ignite your passion for leadership and change.

    32 min
  4. Embracing the Leadership Power of Relationality, Sovereignty & Reflection

    07/05/2024

    Embracing the Leadership Power of Relationality, Sovereignty & Reflection

    Have you redefined your view of leadership recently? I share this inspiring conversation with Judith Le Blanc, the trailblazing Executive Director of the Native Organizers Alliance. Deeply rooted in her Indigenous culture and heritage, Judith introduced me to a fresh perspective on leadership, as her bold journey is a powerful testament to the impact of collective action and cultural continuity. Her insights left a lasting impression on me, and I know they'll resonate with you, too. Beginning in the 1970s, Judith’s leadership journey took a bold turn when she quit college to support the Wounded Knee Occupation in South Dakota. This pivotal experience underscored the importance of sovereignty and self-determination, shaping her understanding of leadership as a collective effort. Her path has since become a testament to the transformative power of united action and cultural perseverance, inspiring those around her with her unwavering commitment. She recalls, “Going to Wounded Knee was a transformative experience. It awakened my sense of being part of something much greater than myself.” Judith’s insights are a treasure trove of wisdom. She emphasizes the need to address past issues to improve current community lives, stresses how our actions now impact future generations and notes sovereignty is a top concern across all demographics, reflecting shared values. Lastly, she introduced relational leadership, which respects past, present, and future interconnectedness. “Understanding the time continuum from the beginning of time until the end of time is crucial. We have ancestral responsibilities, and what we do in the present carries a lot of weight for our descendants and ancestors.” Thank you, Judith, for sharing your profound leadership insights for future-ready leaders. Deeply rooted in Indigenous values, you emphasize relationality, sovereignty, and reflection, offering a warm and holistic way to drive transformative change in the NGO sector. A must-listen episode!

    29 min
  5. Listen, Learn, and Land: Next-Level Leadership

    06/20/2024

    Listen, Learn, and Land: Next-Level Leadership

    My esteemed guest is Robert Bank, CEO of American Jewish World Service. Robert's remarkable journey, from his formative years in apartheid-era South Africa to his current role as a fervent advocate for vulnerable communities, offers profound insights into the transformative power of diverse experiences in shaping effective leadership.  Robert introduces a practical framework for effective leadership: the three L's: Listen, Learn, and Land. This approach underscores the value of embracing diverse perspectives and making decisive choices, designating it a valuable tool for future-ready leaders.  Robert elaborates: “I strive to do three things: listen, learn, and land. These steps are challenging but crucial, especially in leadership roles where biases and preconceived ideas can cloud judgment. It's important to stay humble, recognize the projections of others, and remain patient, particularly in the face of the complex and diverse challenges we encounter." All leaders face the challenge of maintaining clarity and direction while adapting to new insights and external changes, and Robert shares examples and insights from his work in international development and global human rights to meet the challenges upfront. Robert underscores the pivotal role of strategic planning in achieving organizational alignment and clarity in mission and goals. He emphasizes the need to engage diverse stakeholders and integrate their perspectives into a cohesive strategy. Additionally, he highlights the significance of understanding and adapting to generational differences within the workforce. "Strategic planning ensures organizational alignment and clarity. Involving diverse stakeholders and converging perspectives into a unified strategy is key. Adapting to generational differences within the workforce is essential for effective leadership." Robert, thank you for your deep-dive conversation into leadership in the NGO sector to discover how fostering trust, clarity, and inclusiveness can lead to impactful change.

    38 min
  6. Catalyzing Impact: NGO Leadership Strategies, Board Engagement, and Mission Allignment

    04/19/2024

    Catalyzing Impact: NGO Leadership Strategies, Board Engagement, and Mission Allignment

    Have you fallen head over heels with your mission statement?  Get ready to dive into a whirlwind of inspiration from my guest, Michael Thatcher, CEO of Charity Navigator, when he shares that, for him, falling in love with the mission and setting audacious goals are the turbo boosters of motivation and success that foster innovation to drive impactful change within NGOs. 🔸"Falling in love with the mission fuels our passion while setting impossible goals ignites our imagination and determination - both are the driving forces behind unstoppable motivation." Michael's career is a treasure trove of unique insights, drawing from his experiences at Microsoft and Charity Navigator. His journey underscores the importance of accountability, resilience, and people-centric leadership, making his perspective a valuable asset for any NGO leader.  🔸"At Microsoft, I learned that people are not just a bullet point on a slide - they're our first priority. Supporting our teams through challenges, building psychological safety, and fostering a mission-driven culture are pivotal moments that drive success." Are you seeking practical strategies for successful change management?  Look no further. Michael's insights, grounded in real-world experiences at Microsoft and Charity Navigator, offer a roadmap you can immediately apply to your current strategic plan. These strategies emphasize collaboration, experimentation, and strategic vision to address complex challenges. Michael and I also explore the dynamic relationship for CEO-board engagement, trust-building, and effectively leveraging board support. Michael's personal growth and leadership evolution perspective offer a compelling roadmap for  NGO leaders driving lasting impact. 🔸"Board engagement is about finding the balance between adding value without overstepping boundaries, fostering meaningful connections, and ensuring mutual enjoyment and contribution." Take advantage of this timely episode, which is brimming with inspiration and actionable strategies crucial in today's challenging NGO landscape. Thank you, Michael, for equipping us with the tools to catalyze positive change within the NGO community!

    28 min
  7. Breaking Boundaries: The CREED Chronicles in Development Equity

    03/15/2024

    Breaking Boundaries: The CREED Chronicles in Development Equity

    This podcast is a game-changer.  Celebrating CREED's 2nd anniversary, I'm joined by Paul Weisenfeld, Executive Vice President at RTI and a key figure in the Coalition for Racial and Ethnic Equity in Development’s (CREED) Board Executive Committee. Get ready for some real talk! Paul shares CREED's remarkable journey, from its infancy to shaking up the development sector. Senior leaders like Paul are spearheading change, advocating for racial equity in their organizations. His insights into CREED's triumphs and trials paint a vivid picture of transformation in the development sector.  From his own journey since the '80s to championing authentic leadership and tackling biases head-on, Paul's words hit home when he shared a vivid example of when he became possibly the first black mission director for an agency in a predominantly white environment and realized he was “code-switching” his behavior to fit in. He realized the weight of representation and the importance of authenticity. "In 2006, I became a Mission Director in Peru for USAID, possibly the first black Mission Director in South America. I navigated the dual worlds of predominantly white professional settings and my predominantly black upbringing. This led to a style of code-switching until recent years when I embraced authentic leadership." Paul's reflections shed light on CREED's evolution and the collaborative efforts of senior leaders in reshaping racial equity in development. "In the development sector, authentic leadership means confronting biases head-on and collaborating to drive racial equity." Fearlessly navigating uncomfortable conversations, Paul urges us to confront systemic issues with courage. His passion for inclusivity is infectious, inspiring us to drive change authentically. By recognizing our role in addressing these issues, he empowers leaders to take action. As we wrapped up, Paul's stories left me not just informed but energized. Thank you, Paul, for sharing your journey. Join me in exploring CREED's initiatives and embarking on our journey toward a more equitable future.

    23 min
  8. Nonprofit Boardroom and Beyond | Building Trust and Collaboration

    02/13/2024

    Nonprofit Boardroom and Beyond | Building Trust and Collaboration

    Tune in now and revitalize your approach to social impact! From the very start, my conversation with Julia Roig, Founder and Chief Network Weaver at The Horizons Project, is a thought-provoking dialogue that promises to captivate your interest. Julia’s resilient journey in the nonprofit sector contains invaluable insights that ignite passion and action. I couldn't help but jot down Julia's insightful words at the core of our conversation. “Don’t just face risks but embrace them. Risks often unfold into transformative successes.” On the art of networking, collaboration, and relationship building, Julia champions the power of deliberate relationship-building, urging leaders to embrace slow networking, fostering genuine connections, and recognizing the true magic in the spaciousness of profound collaborations. Her words echo as a call to collective empowerment and shared responsibility. She contributes, "Collaboration isn't easy. We've taken for granted that putting people together will make it happen. The reality is, it's hard work, a long-term commitment, and we must slow down in building relationships and understanding." As we dive into the vibrant board engagement and culture world, Julia paints a picture of intentional excitement. She champions the creation of lively, substantive board meetings that blend camaraderie with impactful discussions. It's not just about work; it's about building a thriving, energized community. In a sector where challenges are met with resilience, thank you, Julia, for your guidance, sparking a renewed sense of purpose.  I can’t wait to continue following Julia. Her words reverberate as a call to action, inspiring professionals to lead with courage, collaborate with zeal, and infuse joy into their nonprofit journey. Listen today!

    32 min
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About

This podcast is dedicated to sharing leadership stories from the international nonprofit and other global sectors. We highlight the amazing leaders working to make a difference and learn from their stories. Each guest is hand selected by the host, Lynne Gilliland has worked with individuals, teams and organizations throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Previously, she was a senior manager with a larger US-based NGO, as well as Country Director for their Honduras program and Team Leader for West, Central and Southern Africa.She holds a graduate degree in International Agricultural Development from the University of California at Davis and is certified in tools such as MBTI, Emotional Intelligence, Strengths Deployment, Retreats that Work and various other 360 feedback assessments. Lynne was a Peace Corps volunteer in Costa Rica and is fluent in Spanish.

Information

  • Creator
    Lynne Gilliland
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    96
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Lessons from Leaders
  • Show Website
    Lessons from Leaders