Using the Whole Whale - A Nonprofit Podcast

YOU are not the hero - Your Donor is | Interview with Dr. JJ Peterson StoryBrand

 

This week's podcast features an enlightening conversation with Dr. JJ Peterson, head of StoryBrand  ( mystorybrand.com ) 

and co-host of the Marketing Made Simple podcast. Dr. Peterson shares his expertise on how nonprofits can leverage the StoryBrand framework to clarify their messaging and engage donors more effectively. With a background in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, he offers unique insights into the differences and similarities in their marketing strategies.

Key Topics and Guests:

• Guest: Dr. JJ Peterson, head of StoryBrand, adjunct professor at the Owen School of Business at Vanderbilt, and co-host of the Marketing Made Simple podcast.
• Main Topics:
  • The StoryBrand framework and its application to nonprofit marketing.
  • The importance of viewing donors as customers.
  • Strategies for creating compelling narratives that engage donors and drive action.
  • The significance of clear, concise messaging in reducing donor fatigue and increasing engagement.
  • Effective email marketing and donor follow-up strategies.

Critical Insights and Quotes:

• StoryBrand Framework: Dr. Peterson outlines the seven elements of a compelling story: character, problem, guide, plan, call to action, success, and failure. "Nonprofits need to position their donors as the heroes of the story," he emphasizes.
• Donor Engagement: "When people get to be a part of transformational work, their lives are better because of it," says Dr. Peterson, highlighting the importance of inviting donors into the narrative.
• Email Marketing: Dr. Peterson advises nonprofits to use nurture emails to stay connected with donors throughout the year, providing value without always asking for donations. "You want to be there, top of mind, when they are ready to give," he explains.
• Overcoming Objections: Addressing potential donor objections head-on can build trust and transparency. "Acknowledge the objection and then explain how you address it," he suggests.

Calls to Action:

• For Nonprofits: Visit mystorybrand.com to create a brand script that will help clarify your nonprofit’s messaging.
• For Listeners: Subscribe to the Marketing Made Simple podcast for more valuable insights on marketing strategies.

Closing Thought:

Dr. Peterson's insights remind us that effective storytelling is not about making the nonprofit the hero but about empowering donors and stakeholders to see themselves as vital participants in the mission. By simplifying and clarifying their message, nonprofits can better engage their audience and inspire action.

New Nonprofit Compensation Report 💻 & The Politics of Homelessness 🏡 (news)

Nonprofit News Feed: Highlights from Whole Well

Main Topics:

• Candid’s 2024 Nonprofit Compensation Report
• California’s Homelessness Crisis
• AI Adoption in Nonprofit News Organizations
• Minnesota’s Backpack Giveaway and Child Tax Credit
• The 15 out of 10 Foundation for Dogs with Special Needs

1. Candid's 2024 Nonprofit Compensation Report: Candid has released its 2024 Nonprofit Compensation Report, marking the 24th edition. Based on IRS data from 130,000 organizations, the report reveals key findings:

• Median CEO compensation increased in 2022.
• A persistent gender pay gap exists, especially in larger organizations.
• Science and technology research institutes offer the highest median executive pay.
• The Northeast leads in median executive compensation.
• Women are well-represented as CEOs in smaller nonprofits but underrepresented in larger ones, with less than 30% of CEO positions at large nonprofits held by women.

Critical Insight: The data underscores ongoing gender equity issues in nonprofit executive compensation, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to bridge the pay gap.

2. California's Homelessness Crisis: California is grappling with a pressing homelessness crisis, with cities and state government employing various strategies. Permanent supportive housing developments are emerging as potential solutions but face challenges such as high costs, long construction times, and NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) opposition.

• Governor Gavin Newsom’s approach includes clearing encampments and temporary housing options.
• Tensions exist between immediate measures to clear streets and long-term housing solutions.

Critical Insight: Homelessness requires a multi-stakeholder approach with both immediate and long-term solutions. Political cycles often prioritize short-term visibility over sustainable impact.

3. AI Adoption in Nonprofit News Organizations: A recent survey indicates that about a third of nonprofit news organizations currently use AI, with expectations for growth to over half within a year. AI applications include:

• Personalized fundraising efforts
• Content translation
• Data analysis for investigations
• Enhancing audience engagement
• Streamlining administrative tasks

Critical Insight: Journalists are incorporating AI responsibly, maintaining rigorous standards while leveraging technology to increase efficiency and reach.

4. Minnesota’s Backpack Giveaway and Child Tax Credit: A nonprofit in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, distributed over 3,000 backpacks to help parents with school supplies. Minnesota also offers tax relief programs, including the K-12 education subtraction and credit, which complement the state's child tax credit, providing significant financial relief to families.

Critical Insight: State policies supporting nonprofit efforts can significantly ease financial burdens for families, showcasing a model for combining nonprofit initiatives with effective public policy.

5. The 15 out of 10 Foundation for Dogs with Special Needs: Matt Nelson transformed his viral social media presence into the 15 out of 10 Foundation, raising over $3 million to cover medical costs for hundreds of dogs with special needs and placing them in foster care or adoptive homes.

Critical Insight: This initiative highlights the potential for social media-driven fundraising to support broader causes, ensuring equitable distribution of resources beyond single cases.

Closing Thought: These stories collectively underscore the importance of data-driven insights, compassionate policy implementation, and innovative technology adoption in addressing complex issues within the nonprofit sector. As nonprofit professionals, staying informed and leveraging these insights can drive impactful change.

Musk Sues Nonprofit Out of Existence; Tech NPOs Loose Steam (news)

Episode Overview:

In this episode, George and Nick dive into critical nonprofit news, including Elon Musk's legal battle with a nonprofit advertising group, the financial struggles of tech nonprofits post-pandemic, and a wave of funding cuts impacting local nonprofits. They also share updates on the digital divide and a unique initiative in Kansas to claim unclaimed property for nonprofits.

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Key Topics and Insights:

1. Elon Musk's Legal Battle with GARM

• Story: The Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM), a nonprofit advertising initiative, has ceased operations due to a lawsuit from Elon Musk's social media platform, X.
• Impact: GARM's shutdown underscores the immense legal pressures nonprofits can face, especially when challenged by well-funded entities like X.
• Quote: "It's a tough time to be in journalism, especially for nonprofits trying to report on things... you can weaponize the legal system to file a lawsuit against things that you feel are damaging."
• Reflection: This case highlights the vulnerability of nonprofits to legal intimidation and the need for financial resilience to withstand such challenges.

2. Tech Nonprofits Closing Post-Pandemic

• Story: Several tech-focused nonprofits, including Venture for America and Women Who Code, have shut down due to drastic revenue drops following a pandemic-induced surge.
• Insight: The fluctuation in funding and the inability to scale back effectively post-surge led to these closures.
• Quote: "There's nothing sadder than actually going out of business because of that moment of success."
• Reflection: The story serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of rapid, unsustainable growth and the importance of financial planning.

3. United Way Funding Cuts in Rochester

• Story: The United Way of Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes has drastically reduced funding, approving only $6 million out of $35 million in grant applications.
• Impact: Essential services like Foodlink, a local food bank, are severely affected, highlighting the ongoing challenges nonprofits face in securing steady funding.
• Quote: "The trickle-down effect is definitely being seen."
• Reflection: This scenario underscores the broader economic pressures on nonprofits and the crucial role of consistent donor support.

4. Kansas Initiative for Unclaimed Property

• Story: Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson announced a week-long initiative to help nonprofits claim over $640 million in unclaimed property.
• Opportunity: Nonprofits have the chance to recover forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, and insurance proceeds.
• Quote: "Don't leave money on the table... check your own stuff."
• Reflection: This initiative is a reminder for nonprofits to explore all potential funding sources, including unclaimed property.

5. Bridging the Digital Divide in Atlanta

• Story: CompuDopt is working to provide technology access to families in need, addressing the digital divide exacerbated by the pandemic.
• Impact: Ensuring access to laptops and Wi-Fi is crucial for educational and economic opportunities.
• Quote: "Technology access is becoming more and more a differentiator."
• Reflection: Efforts to bridge the digital divide are essential for equity and inclusion in the modern world.

Managing Nonprofit Brand Safety & Presence On LLMs: What You Need To Know 💻 ❓(news)

Main Topics:

• The rise of AI and LLMs in search engines
• Implications for nonprofit brand visibility and content strategy
• Governance issues in nonprofits
• National Make A Will Month and planned giving
• Nonprofit consultant cost and compensation survey

Special Guests:

• George Weiner, Chief Whaler at Whole Whale
• Nick Azulay, Digital Strategist at Whole Whale

Critical Insights:

1. AI and LLMs in Search Engines: The podcast kicks off with a discussion about the growing importance of AI and large language models (LLMs) like SearchGPT. George and Nick highlight that nonprofits need to start thinking about LLM optimization (LLMO) in addition to traditional SEO. SearchGPT, unlike ChatGPT, dynamically pulls current information from the internet, making it a game-changer for how nonprofits need to manage their brand visibility and content strategy.

2. Brand and Content Strategy: George emphasizes the shift from static to dynamic information gathering. He stresses the importance of nonprofits ensuring that AI has accurate, up-to-date information about their brand. This involves rethinking how their websites function—moving from being static libraries to dynamic librarians that interact effectively with AI-driven search tools.

3. Governance Issues: The episode also covers a cautionary tale from San Francisco Safe, where former executive Kyra Worthy was charged with multiple felonies related to embezzlement and wage theft. This serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust governance and oversight within nonprofit organizations.

4. National Make A Will Month: Highlighting the importance of planned giving, the hosts discuss the success of Free Will, which raised $370 million in bequest commitments. They encourage nonprofits to leverage National Make A Will Month to engage with donors about legacy giving.

5. Consultant Cost and Compensation Survey: Nonprofitist is gathering data for a comprehensive survey on nonprofit consultant costs and compensation. Participation is open to all nonprofit consultants, and results will help provide transparency and benchmarks for the sector.

Quotes:

• George Weiner: "It doesn't matter if you believe in gravity. Gravity believes in you. The same goes for AI."
• Nick Azulay: "How is your organization perceived by the LLMs? This is a critical question nonprofits need to start asking."

Calls to Action:

• Nonprofits should audit their current digital presence to ensure it aligns with the emerging LLM-driven search landscape.
• Board members must take their governance roles seriously to prevent financial mismanagement.
• Nonprofits should actively promote planned giving during National Make A Will Month.
• Nonprofit consultants are encouraged to participate in the Nonprofitist cost and compensation survey.

Closing Thought: The digital landscape is rapidly evolving with AI and LLMs at the forefront. Nonprofits must adapt to these changes to maintain their visibility and effectiveness. Proper governance and strategic planning, especially in areas like planned giving, are crucial for long-term success.

Large-Scale Universal Basic Income Trial Yield Results 💵 (news)

Universal Basic Income Pilot and Nonprofit Trends: Insights and Implications

Hosts: George Weiner (Chief Whaler, Whole Whale) and Nick Azulay (Senior Strategy Manager, Whole Whale)

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Main Topics:

1. Sam Altman’s UBI Test Results:

   • Overview: Open Research, backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, conducted the largest UBI pilot in the U.S., providing $1,000 monthly to low-income participants in Illinois and Texas over three years.
   • Key Findings: Recipients used the money primarily for essential needs, improved living situations, and personal goals. However, there was a notable reduction in workforce participation. The study emphasized the flexibility and agency cash transfers provide, though they didn't solve all underlying problems.
   • Discussion: The hosts debated the broader implications of UBI, considering the nuanced impacts on health, mental well-being, and the economy. They highlighted the potential for both positive and negative outcomes, depending on the scale and implementation of such programs.

2. Nonprofit Trends Report by Salesforce:

   • Cybersecurity Concerns: Only 35% of nonprofits have adequate data handling policies.
   • AI Adoption: Only 12% have officially adopted AI, though 65% are open to it. The hosts noted that many employees might be using AI tools informally, which could pose risks.
   • Recommendations: Nonprofits should develop clear AI strategies and cybersecurity protocols to safeguard their operations and leverage new technologies effectively.

3. Cybersecurity Incident in Columbus:

   • Incident: A cyberattack forced the shutdown of IT services, affecting various nonprofits, including See a Brilliance, which faced payroll issues due to delayed city grants.
   • Implications: The incident underscored the vulnerability of nonprofit IT infrastructure and the need for robust cybersecurity measures. The hosts also discussed the importance of financial planning and bridge financing to mitigate cash flow issues caused by delayed funding.

4. Financial Irregularities in North Carolina Nonprofit:

   • Case: Balanced Nutrition, Inc., led by the wife of North Carolina's Lieutenant Governor, was ordered to repay $132,000 in federal funds due to improper billing.
   • Discussion: The hosts emphasized the importance of transparency and proper accounting in nonprofit operations. Publicizing such cases can serve as a deterrent against misuse of funds.

Feel-Good Story:

• Big Beautiful Life: A charity in Essex, Vermont, founded in memory of 12-year-old Addie Carroll, prepares for its annual fundraiser. The organization provides joy kits and financial support to children with medical crises and their families.

Closing Thought:

• The hosts reflected on the importance of proactive measures in nonprofit management, from adopting new technologies responsibly to ensuring financial stability and transparency.

The Secrets of Project Management w/ Tips For Nonprofits

Host Nick Azulay, Senior Digital Strategy Manager at Whole Whale, is joined by special guest Kathleen Daniels, Senior Project Manager at Whole Whale for this special edition of the podcast to discuss project management and tips for nonprofits.

Key Topics We Will Cover Include:

1. Defining Project Management

2. Role of a Project Manager

3. Technical Tools and Communication

4. AI in Project Management

5. Supporting Team Members

6. Prioritization

SCOTUS Thinks Homelessness Is A Crime ⚖️ (news)

Supreme Court Ruling Criminalizes Homelessness

In a controversial decision, the Supreme Court ruled in a 6-3 vote that the city of Grants Pass, Oregon, did not violate the Eighth Amendment by criminalizing homelessness. This ruling has far-reaching implications, allowing cities to enforce ordinances that penalize behaviors associated with being unhoused, such as sleeping or camping on public property. Justice Sotomayor, in her dissent, emphasized the cascading harm this decision could cause to the already vulnerable homeless population. The ruling has been met with shock and dismay by advocates for the homeless, who argue that it is both unconstitutional and inhumane.

Los Angeles Public Schools' AI Chatbot Fails

The Los Angeles Public School District's $6 million investment in an AI chatbot named Ed has come to a sudden halt. Developed by the startup All Here, the chatbot was intended to assist students with academic and mental health resources. However, the company faced financial difficulties, leading to the CEO's departure and staff furloughs. This incident raises significant concerns about the sustainability of AI startups and the ethical implications of using AI in sensitive educational contexts.

Nonprofit Sector Faces Burnout and Staffing Issues

The Center for Effective Philanthropy's 2024 report highlights ongoing challenges in the nonprofit sector, particularly burnout and understaffing. A staggering 95% of nonprofit leaders cited burnout as a major concern, with many organizations struggling to retain staff due to budget constraints. Despite these challenges, the sector shows signs of financial stability, with most nonprofits experiencing balanced budgets or surpluses. However, leaders facing budget deficits are contemplating difficult trade-offs that could exacerbate burnout.

Nonprofit Buys Building for Migrant Housing

Breaking Ground, a nonprofit organization, has purchased a building in East Harlem for $172 million to create housing for migrants. The building, currently used as a temporary migrant shelter, will be renovated to provide 261 units for people transitioning out of homelessness and additional units for low-income families. This initiative addresses the urgent need for physical space and infrastructure to support migrants in New York City.

Feel-Good Story: In Tandem Cycling Expands Programs

In Tandem Cycling, a New York nonprofit that pairs sighted riders with blind and low-vision riders on tandem bikes, is expanding its programs. These activities offer not just exercise but also socialization, mental health benefits, and teamwork for participants. The organization's efforts highlight the positive impact of community sports and inclusive activities.

Closing Thought

The stories covered in this episode underscore the complex and interconnected challenges facing the nonprofit sector, from legal battles and technological missteps to staffing issues and innovative housing solutions. As always, the resilience and creativity of nonprofits continue to shine through, offering hope and inspiration.

Trust & Safety From Fires Nonprofit News (news)

Nonprofit News Feed Podcast Recap: Trust in Nonprofits Rises, Local Journalism Fund, and Innovative Solutions

Main Host Update

This week's episode is a special solo edition hosted by Nick Azulay. George, CEO and founder of Whole Whale, is on paternity leave after welcoming a new baby. Congratulations to George and his family!

Key Topics Covered:

1. Increase in Nonprofit Trust:

   • Independent Sector Report: After four years of decline, trust in nonprofits has increased by 5%, now at 57%.
   • Comparative Trust: Nonprofits are more trusted than media and government, especially in bridging social and political divides.
   • Challenges: Despite this, 74% of respondents believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, and 94% worry about increasing division.
   • Nonpartisan Advocacy: There's growing wariness about nonprofits' involvement in nonpartisan advocacy and political engagement.

2. AP Fund for Journalism:

   • Associated Press Initiative: Launching a $100 million fund to boost local journalism, addressing the financial strain on local news outlets.
   • Impact: This fund aims to support local journalism through financial aid and knowledge sharing, essential for combating misinformation and fostering informed communities.

3. Rebuild Paradise Foundation:

   • Innovative Solution for Fire Victims: Offering grants for building gravel buffers around homes in Paradise, CA, to prevent fire spread.
   • Insurance Premiums: Aims to help homeowners negotiate lower insurance premiums by making homes more fire-resistant.

4. Cafe Momentum’s Expansion:

   • Nonprofit Restaurant in Atlanta: Employs justice-involved youth, providing them with skills and opportunities to reduce recidivism.
   • Impact: Highlights the importance of empowering youth through practical skills and supportive environments.

5. Nonprofit Theater Highlights:

   • Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Receiving rave reviews for its interpretation of "Much Ado About Nothing."
   • Public Theater in NYC: Renovating the Delacorte Theatre, home to Shakespeare in the Park, with free streaming of past performances available on PBS.

Critical Insights and Quotes:

• "Nonprofits are seen as more reliable when it comes to providing solutions to bridging social and political divides in America."
• "Transparency and third-party certifications are key to building trust with donors."

Calls to Action:

• For Nonprofits: Emphasize transparency and trustworthiness through clear communication, financial transparency, and third-party certifications.
• For Listeners: Check out the Independent Sector report and support local journalism and nonprofit theaters.

Closing Thought:

In a time of widespread distrust, nonprofits hold a pivotal role in fostering community trust and bridging divides. Their ability to remain transparent, nonpartisan, and community-focused is essential for their continued impact.

Feel-Good Story:

• Nonprofit Theater Excellence: The Oregon Shakespeare Festival's innovative take on a classic play and the Public Theater’s upcoming renovations and free streaming options highlight the vital role of nonprofit arts in enriching communities.

Joke of the Week:

• What do you call a nonprofit theater spamming your email inbox with ticket promotions? Spamlet

Stay tuned for more updates and special guest appearances from the Whole Whale family in upcoming episodes!

AI Transparency, Environmental Impact, and Ethical Tech Shifts (news)

Nonprofit News Feed: AI Transparency, Environmental Impact, and Ethical Tech Shifts

Hosted by George Weiner and Nick Azulay of Whole Whale

Main Topics:

1. Adobe's AI Controversy:

   • Adobe faces backlash over changes to its terms of service, sparking fears that user data might be used to train its generative AI models without consent.
   • Adobe clarified it does not train its AI models on customer content and committed to updating its terms by the end of June.
   • The Department of Justice has filed a suit against Adobe for its opaque subscription models, adding to the company's woes.

2. Transparency Issues with OpenAI-Backed Nonprofits:

   • Nonprofits backed by OpenAI, like Open Research and UBI Charitable, have stopped disclosing financial statements and internal policies, breaking previous transparency pledges.
   • George emphasizes the importance of transparency in research, especially in universal basic income (UBI) studies to maintain credibility and trust.

3. Environmental Impact of AI:

   • AI's significant compute power demands are leading to increased carbon emissions and higher operational costs.
   • Google's new AI search feature, rolling out to a billion users, is estimated to use 30 times more energy than traditional search methods.
   • The conversation touches on the broader implications of AI's energy consumption and the potential for more efficient models in the future.

4. Ethical Concerns in Tech Infrastructure:

   • The discussion extends to the physical infrastructure required for AI, including the ethical implications of mining precious metals.
   • George notes the importance of monitoring the human rights impacts of resource extraction and the need for innovative solutions to mitigate these effects.

Feel-Good Story:

• ProtonMail's Shift to Nonprofit Foundation:
  • Proton, known for its secure email service, is transitioning to a nonprofit foundation model, prioritizing mission over profit.
  • This move echoes Patagonia's shift and reinforces trust in nonprofit tech companies' commitment to user privacy and data security.

Critical Insights:

• Transparency and ethical considerations in AI and tech are paramount to maintaining user trust and ensuring sustainable practices.
• The shift of tech companies to nonprofit models can offer a more trustworthy alternative, free from shareholder pressures.

Call to Action:

• Stay informed about changes in terms of service from tech providers and advocate for transparency and ethical practices.
• Consider supporting and using tech services that prioritize privacy and nonprofit values.

Closing Thought:

• The nonprofit sector continues to lead by example in prioritizing ethical practices and transparency, underscoring the importance of mission-driven work in tech and beyond.

Are These Organizations Really Nonprofits? (news)

Are These Organizations Still Nonprofits? A Deep Dive into Nonprofit Status and the Blurring Lines

Overview

This week on the Nonprofit Newsfeed, George Weiner, Chief Whaler of Whole Whale, and Nick Azulay, Senior Manager of Digital Strategy at Whole Whale, delve into the complex and evolving landscape of nonprofit status. They question whether certain large organizations still meet the true spirit of what it means to be a nonprofit.

Key Topics and Highlights

1. NCAA's Historic Settlement:

   • The NCAA, a nonprofit with nearly $1 billion in revenue, recently settled to pay college athletes $2.7 billion. This raises questions about whether the organization still aligns with its original nonprofit mission of fostering amateur sports.

2. PGA Tour and Saudi Investment:

   • The PGA Tour, another nonprofit, announced a merger with the Saudi Public Investment Fund's LiveGolf. This billion-dollar deal casts doubt on whether taxpayer dollars should support such ventures.

3. OpenAI's Nonprofit Status:

   • OpenAI, which started as a nonprofit, now controls a highly profitable LLC valued at $80 billion. This shift has led to legal scrutiny and questions about whether it still adheres to its nonprofit mission.

4. The Linux Foundation:

   • With $177 million in revenue and high executive salaries, the Linux Foundation faces scrutiny about its contribution to the public good and whether it still qualifies as a nonprofit.

Critical Insights and Quotes

• George Weiner: "When you cross that line toward profiting off the community you're trying to protect, it's time to review that."
• Nick Azoulay: "Should your tax dollars be subsidizing the Saudi investment into American golf influence? That's a hard pill to swallow."

Calls to Action

• For Nonprofits: Reflect on whether your organization still aligns with its original mission and the broader public good.
• For Donors and Volunteers: Scrutinize the nonprofits you support to ensure they adhere to their stated missions and use funds responsibly.

Closing Thought

The conversation highlights the need for a national discussion about what truly constitutes a nonprofit. As organizations grow and evolve, it's crucial to revisit their missions and ensure they continue to serve the public good.

Additional Stories

• Universal Analytics Data Deletion: A reminder for organizations to download their data from Universal Analytics before it is permanently deleted.
• Robin Hood AI Poverty Challenge: An exciting opportunity offering up to $1 million for innovative projects addressing poverty in New York City.
• National Foundation for Transplant Closure: The closure of this organization leaves many organ transplant patients without critical funds.
• Feel-Good Story: The Growhaus nonprofit in Denver is planting vegetable gardens in food deserts, providing fresh produce and empowering families.