The Overhead Myth: Reconsidering Nonprofit Financial Models with Andrew Taylor

In this episode, Jill talks with Andrew Taylor (program director and associate professor of Arts Management at American University), a leading voice in the North American nonprofit arts sector, to discuss the prevalent issue of the “overhead myth.”  The discussion takes a deep dive into the challenges arts organizations face, the scarcity mindset, and the importance of understanding the values in direct and indirect costs. Andrew also talks about educating future arts leaders about these financial intricacies. 

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Key Topics & Chapter Markers:  

[00:02:04.970] The Infinite Game  

[00:03:19.190] The Overhead Myth  

[00:06:03.800] Mindset around Scarcity  

[00:11:12.790] Role of Communication in Budgeting  

[00:11:24.520] Starvation Cycle  

[00:14:08.800] Overhead Costs  

[00:16:22.410] Finding a Balance in Overhead  

[00:18:49.140] Shifting Dynamics in Arts  

[00:23:30.520] Artistic Evolution and Challenges  

[00:27:45.250] Venture Capital in Arts  

[00:28:45.690] Philanthropy and Overhead  

[00:32:15.850] Teaching Overhead to the Younger Generation  

[00:34:36.260] Future Leaders in the Arts  

[00:36:00.310] Power Dynamics in Arts Management  

[00:37:49.430] Direct and Indirect Costs   

Contact Info:  

letstalk@trgarts.com