137: This Is Not Mad Men | Advice for Executive Directors Managing Their Board with David Rhode

Welcome to this episode of Charity Therapy! I’m Jess Birken, and today we’re diving into the wild world of nonprofit leadership.

I’ve got David Rhode, a super-smart nonprofit coach and author, joining me to give all kinds of advice for nonprofit executive directors. We’re tackling a juicy listener question about a micromanaging board member who’s causing a bit of a headache. Trust me, we’ve got some great strategies to share that’ll help you balance gratitude with boundary-setting.

Transitioning from a working board to a governing board can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube in the dark, especially when leadership roles are changing. With David’s guidance, we explore how to keep board members engaged by giving them roles that match their strengths. Don’t worry, we’ve got tips on keeping things fair and professional, ensuring everyone knows their lane.

And let’s not forget the fun twists of gender dynamics and generational differences. David and I chat about the importance of continuous learning and having a support network. Plus, we’ve got some motivational pep talks for those days when you’re just trying to keep your head above water.

Tune in for some personal stories, professional advice, and a few laughs as we empower you to lead with confidence and cultivate a culture of respect in your nonprofit world.

In this episode, you will hear:

• How to navigate the tricky waters of board dynamics and leadership
• Some no-nonsense tips on how to set boundaries with a board member
• How to transition from a working board to a governing board
• How to step into your role as the boss
• David’s advice for building your own support network
• How to stand up and claim your turf (respectfully!)
• What to do when doing the same things over and over again just won’t cut it anymore

Resources from this Episode

Buy David’s Book, Passion Isn’t Enough: https://dotdotorg.com/my-book

Sign up for the Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

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