124: Oxford Comma Drama | The Role of a Nonprofit Board of Directors

On this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are diving headfirst into the tricky world of nonprofit boards.

You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered why your board seems more like a roadblock than a support system. We’ve got a juicy listener question from someone stuck with a board that feels more like a nagging boss than a helpful partner. Can you just ditch the board entirely? Spoiler alert: it’s not that simple, but we’re here to help you navigate these murky waters.

Meghan and I unravel the tangled web of board-staff dynamics. We know how frustrating it can be when board members overstep, adding more to your to-do list than you can handle. We’ll chat about the board’s legal duties (in the least boring way possible) and why they can’t just sign them away. Plus, we’ll offer real-world tips on how executive directors can manage these board relations better, ensuring everyone stays in their lane. And yes, we’ll even sprinkle in a bit of Oxford comma drama just to keep things interesting.

Whether you’re an ED who feels like you’re juggling flaming torches or a staff member wishing for a little more autonomy, this episode is for you. We’ll explore practical solutions like board training and third-party mediation to help smooth things out. Tune in, laugh with us, and maybe learn how to gently nudge your board in the right direction. And if all else fails, feel free to share this episode with a board member who could use a hint!

In this episode, you will hear:

• Nonprofit boards: the captain’s role, steering missions. Can a weak board be ousted?
• Drama alert: Board overreach vs. staff independence. Legal duties demand balance.
• Board-staff tension eases with a playful Oxford comma debate. Spicy grammar wars!
• Boards that delegate too much. Chasing resume clout, not nonprofit passion.
• Tips for executive directors: Manage board expectations and set boundaries. No more random tasks!
• Board-staff tensions? Training and a neutral party can help clear the air.

Resources from this Episode

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