web01.fireside.fm Sat, 11 Apr 2026 11:11:04 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) The Smart Communications Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Communications” https://bigduck.fireside.fm/tags/communications Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400 The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission. en-us episodic The Smart Communications Podcast is a useful resource for all nonprofit leaders looking to boost their communications chops on the go. Big Duck The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission. no Big Duck hello@bigducknyc.com Episode 208: How can you lead an inclusive strategic planning process? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/208 b52a98d2-317d-421e-abd2-e365d29aae72 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Design a strategic plan that actually reflects your community. Learn how inclusive processes build alignment, buy-in, and stronger, more actionable plans. 22:17 no What does it take to really lead an inclusive strategic planning process, and why does it matter? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Dr. Renee Rubin Ross, author of Inclusive Strategic Planning for Nonprofits, about designing plans that center participation, clarify purpose, and build real alignment. Get practical tips for assessing readiness, integrating communications throughout, and turning big ideas into actionable plans. nonprofit, podcast, communications, strategic planning, inclusive What does it take to really lead an inclusive strategic planning process, and why does it matter? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Dr. Renee Rubin Ross, author of Inclusive Strategic Planning for Nonprofits, about designing plans that center participation, clarify purpose, and build real alignment. Get practical tips for assessing readiness, integrating communications throughout, and turning big ideas into actionable plans.

]]> What does it take to really lead an inclusive strategic planning process, and why does it matter? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Dr. Renee Rubin Ross, author of Inclusive Strategic Planning for Nonprofits, about designing plans that center participation, clarify purpose, and build real alignment. Get practical tips for assessing readiness, integrating communications throughout, and turning big ideas into actionable plans.

]]> Episode 207: How can you center community voices in messaging? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/207 f7653199-52b7-4d1e-8a3d-4f950591ceef Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Are the right people telling your organization’s story? Get practical ways to build messaging rooted in authenticity and lived experience. 22:48 no What does it really mean to center community voices in your messaging? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Logan Herring, CEO of The WRK Group, about how organizations can develop communications grounded in authentic community experiences and how sharing genuine stories can revolutionize your nonprofit’s messaging. nonprofit, podcast, communications, community, messaging What does it really mean to center community voices in your messaging? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Logan Herring, CEO of The WRK Group, about how organizations can develop communications grounded in authentic community experiences and how sharing genuine stories can revolutionize your nonprofit’s messaging.

]]> What does it really mean to center community voices in your messaging? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Logan Herring, CEO of The WRK Group, about how organizations can develop communications grounded in authentic community experiences and how sharing genuine stories can revolutionize your nonprofit’s messaging.

]]> Episode 206: How can you use science to engage donors? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/206 c26de40d-0e07-4d90-a1f9-872e78f29402 Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn how neuroscience can shape fundraising, including anniversary, capital, and year-end giving campaigns, to build trust, spark emotions, and drive donations. 27:33 no What if fundraising strategy started with the brain? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Cherian Koshy, CFRE, CAP, author of Neurogiving: The Science of Donor Decision-Making, about how neuroscience and behavioral psychology can strengthen donor engagement. They share insights nonprofits can use to build trust, write clearer appeals, and design campaigns that motivate supporters. nonprofit, podcast, fundraising, neuroscience, donor engagement, communications What if fundraising strategy started with the brain? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Cherian Koshy, CFRE, CAP, author of Neurogiving: The Science of Donor Decision-Making, about how neuroscience and behavioral psychology can strengthen donor engagement. They share insights nonprofits can use to build trust, write clearer appeals, and design campaigns that motivate supporters.

]]> What if fundraising strategy started with the brain? Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Cherian Koshy, CFRE, CAP, author of Neurogiving: The Science of Donor Decision-Making, about how neuroscience and behavioral psychology can strengthen donor engagement. They share insights nonprofits can use to build trust, write clearer appeals, and design campaigns that motivate supporters.

]]> Episode 205: Why is it important to change how you talk to funders? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/205 8aa01f4f-9b61-4886-8652-3e56e769899f Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Explore how nonprofits can shift funder communications using Community-Centric Fundraising, asset framing, and values-aligned storytelling to build stronger, more authentic funding relationships. 13:57 no How you talk to your funders shapes how they understand your work, your community, and your impact. Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with grant writer and fundraising strategist, Dani Fauklner, about why nonprofits must rethink traditional, jargon-heavy fundraising language. Together, they explore practical ways teams can audit and improve proposals, reports, and messaging. Learn how cross-team communication can help nonprofits secure funding without compromising integrity. nonprofit, podcast, communications, fundraising, language How you talk to your funders shapes how they understand your work, your community, and your impact. Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with grant writer and fundraising strategist, Dani Fauklner, about why nonprofits must rethink traditional, jargon-heavy fundraising language. Together, they explore practical ways teams can audit and improve proposals, reports, and messaging. Learn how cross-team communication can help nonprofits secure funding without compromising integrity.

]]> How you talk to your funders shapes how they understand your work, your community, and your impact. Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with grant writer and fundraising strategist, Dani Fauklner, about why nonprofits must rethink traditional, jargon-heavy fundraising language. Together, they explore practical ways teams can audit and improve proposals, reports, and messaging. Learn how cross-team communication can help nonprofits secure funding without compromising integrity.

]]> Episode 204: Is the field of nonprofit communications coming of age? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/204 2081cc4a-19b0-4d58-81d3-b19b3325007e Fri, 30 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Is nonprofit communications finally growing up? Unpack 16 years of hard truths and hopeful signs from the latest nonprofit communications trends report. 23:10 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and chief strategy officer of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, discuss insights from the 16th annual Nonprofit Communications Trends Report. Together, they explore why communicators are ready for strategy, what AI means for visibility and influence, and where the approach to nonprofit communications is showing real maturity. nonprofit, podcast, communications, trends, marketing Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and chief strategy officer of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, discuss insights from the 16th annual Nonprofit Communications Trends Report. Together, they explore why communicators are ready for strategy, what AI means for visibility and influence, and where the approach to nonprofit communications is showing real maturity.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and chief strategy officer of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, discuss insights from the 16th annual Nonprofit Communications Trends Report. Together, they explore why communicators are ready for strategy, what AI means for visibility and influence, and where the approach to nonprofit communications is showing real maturity.

]]> Episode 203: How to bridge belonging in your narratives? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/203 42f7b323-b029-441f-9519-760c118898fb Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck The way we communicate can move people to take action if we are intentional about it. Learn how language can build belonging, clarity, and connection. 21:16 no Narratives don’t just tell stories; they shape meaning. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sadé Dozan, vice president of advancement at Borealis Philanthropy, discuss how nonprofits can use plain language and narrative strategies to build belonging, expand your “we”, and create more inclusive communications. Get practical guidance for anyone working at the intersection of storytelling and social change. nonprofit, podcast, communications, narratives, storytelling, stories, belonging Narratives don’t just tell stories; they shape meaning. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sadé Dozan, vice president of advancement at Borealis Philanthropy, discuss how nonprofits can use plain language and narrative strategies to build belonging, expand your “we”, and create more inclusive communications. Get practical guidance for anyone working at the intersection of storytelling and social change.

]]> Narratives don’t just tell stories; they shape meaning. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sadé Dozan, vice president of advancement at Borealis Philanthropy, discuss how nonprofits can use plain language and narrative strategies to build belonging, expand your “we”, and create more inclusive communications. Get practical guidance for anyone working at the intersection of storytelling and social change.

]]> Episode 202: How can you put AI to work for your nonprofit? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/202 2deb1068-0097-4c53-8757-3c34f943ead3 Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck AI is here, now what? Explore how nonprofits can move past the hype to use AI thoughtfully, ethically, and strategically to support your mission and people. 34:32 no AI is reshaping nonprofit work, but adopting it responsibly takes intention. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Cheryl Contee, chief innovation officer at BrightWorksAI.com, and Darian Rodriguez Heyman, founder of Helping People Help, to discuss insights from their new book, AI for Nonprofits, including practical, ethical ways nonprofits can use AI from fundraising and communications to operations and culture. nonprofit, podcast, communications, AI, artificial intelligence AI is reshaping nonprofit work, but adopting it responsibly takes intention. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Cheryl Contee, chief innovation officer at BrightWorksAI.com, and Darian Rodriguez Heyman, founder of Helping People Help, to discuss insights from their new book, AI for Nonprofits, including practical, ethical ways nonprofits can use AI from fundraising and communications to operations and culture.

]]> AI is reshaping nonprofit work, but adopting it responsibly takes intention. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Cheryl Contee, chief innovation officer at BrightWorksAI.com, and Darian Rodriguez Heyman, founder of Helping People Help, to discuss insights from their new book, AI for Nonprofits, including practical, ethical ways nonprofits can use AI from fundraising and communications to operations and culture.

]]> Episode 201: How do you approach rebranding a 100 year old nonprofit? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/201 30196533-efe6-4204-96a5-0e628e94bb08 Tue, 16 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover how a 100-year-old community foundation approached a full rebrand, refreshing their identity to engage new audiences. 19:37 no Insights from a major nonprofit rebrand! Join Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Brad Drazen, vice president of communications and marketing at Greater Hartford Gives Foundation, as they unpack the motivations behind changing a 100-year-old foundation’s name, the research and collaboration that guided the process, and what other organizations and foundations can learn when considering a rebrand. podcast, nonprofit, communications, branding, rebrand, brand equity Insights from a major nonprofit rebrand! Join Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Brad Drazen, vice president of communications and marketing at Greater Hartford Gives Foundation, as they unpack the motivations behind changing a 100-year-old foundation’s name, the research and collaboration that guided the process, and what other organizations and foundations can learn when considering a rebrand.

]]> Insights from a major nonprofit rebrand! Join Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Brad Drazen, vice president of communications and marketing at Greater Hartford Gives Foundation, as they unpack the motivations behind changing a 100-year-old foundation’s name, the research and collaboration that guided the process, and what other organizations and foundations can learn when considering a rebrand.

]]> Episode 200: How can we reimagine nonprofits and philanthropy? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/200 3c38fd5b-aa4d-424a-8906-974b31bec4e1 Wed, 03 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Celebrate our 200th episode with a bold conversation on reimagining nonprofits, challenging “best practices”, and charting a more just, human-centered future. 24:31 no In our 200th episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with writer, speaker, and beloved nonprofit truth-teller Vu Le, to explore how we can reimagine nonprofits and philanthropy. Learn about “sacred cows,” structural barriers, the urgency of this political moment, and what real transformation requires from all of us. Vu also shares insights from his new book, challenges long-held norms, and offers reflections on joy, community, and resilience. Listen or read along to this milestone conversation that’s honest, energizing, and deeply needed. nonprofit, podcast, philanthropy, communications, fundraising In our 200th episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with writer, speaker, and beloved nonprofit truth-teller Vu Le, to explore how we can reimagine nonprofits and philanthropy. Learn about “sacred cows,” structural barriers, the urgency of this political moment, and what real transformation requires from all of us. Vu also shares insights from his new book, challenges long-held norms, and offers reflections on joy, community, and resilience. Listen or read along to this milestone conversation that’s honest, energizing, and deeply needed.

]]> In our 200th episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with writer, speaker, and beloved nonprofit truth-teller Vu Le, to explore how we can reimagine nonprofits and philanthropy. Learn about “sacred cows,” structural barriers, the urgency of this political moment, and what real transformation requires from all of us. Vu also shares insights from his new book, challenges long-held norms, and offers reflections on joy, community, and resilience. Listen or read along to this milestone conversation that’s honest, energizing, and deeply needed.

]]> Episode 198: What do you need to know about cybersecurity? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/198 09ad211c-dbb8-4828-9e4f-047a4eea0310 Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn how nonprofits can protect data, people, and missions from cyber threats, and why it's important to tune into this conversation about cybersecurity. 32:20 no Cybersecurity is everyone's job. Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Joshua Peskay, co-founder of Meet the Moment, about practical ways nonprofits can reduce risk, protect sensitive data, and create a culture of awareness and care. From reasonable security standards to tabletop exercises, learn how to keep the mission and the people you serve safe. nonprofit, podcast, communications, cybersecurity Cybersecurity is everyone's job. Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Joshua Peskay, co-founder of Meet the Moment, about practical ways nonprofits can reduce risk, protect sensitive data, and create a culture of awareness and care. From reasonable security standards to tabletop exercises, learn how to keep the mission and the people you serve safe.

]]> Cybersecurity is everyone's job. Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Joshua Peskay, co-founder of Meet the Moment, about practical ways nonprofits can reduce risk, protect sensitive data, and create a culture of awareness and care. From reasonable security standards to tabletop exercises, learn how to keep the mission and the people you serve safe.

]]> Episode 193: How can you keep your communications plan alive? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/193 b8b3d4ac-ab48-4320-a347-f80dae8a71d6 Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Tips for keeping your communications plan from collecting dust, and how to adapt it when your organization is in crisis mode. 23:09 no Is your communications plan sitting untouched? We have swapped roles for this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, with our director of service development, Ally Dommu as host and Farra Trompeter, co-director, as her guest, who explore how to keep your communications plan useful, relevant, and responsive, even in chaotic times. nonprofit, podcast, communications, plan, planning, teams Is your communications plan sitting untouched? We have swapped roles for this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, with our director of service development, Ally Dommu as host and Farra Trompeter, co-director, as her guest, who explore how to keep your communications plan useful, relevant, and responsive, even in chaotic times.

]]> Is your communications plan sitting untouched? We have swapped roles for this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, with our director of service development, Ally Dommu as host and Farra Trompeter, co-director, as her guest, who explore how to keep your communications plan useful, relevant, and responsive, even in chaotic times.

]]> Episode 189: How can you get more out of your rebrand? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/189 e847cd77-2121-46f0-918c-19e55bf2b44e Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Rebranding doesn’t stop at the launch. Learn practical tips to activate, maintain, and evolve your nonprofit’s brand with intention and care. 13:16 no Learn how to make your nonprofit’s rebrand last. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sandy Zimmerman, design director, explore how nonprofits can go beyond the brand launch and learn how to bring your rebrand to life —and keep it thriving. nonprofit, podcast, communications, branding, rebranding Learn how to make your nonprofit’s rebrand last. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sandy Zimmerman, design director, explore how nonprofits can go beyond the brand launch and learn how to bring your rebrand to life —and keep it thriving.

]]> Learn how to make your nonprofit’s rebrand last. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sandy Zimmerman, design director, explore how nonprofits can go beyond the brand launch and learn how to bring your rebrand to life —and keep it thriving.

]]> Episode 188: How can you grow midlevel donors? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/188 9a954c34-cd44-4a43-ace1-ec667fd74a74 Wed, 11 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn how to form lasting relationships with midlevel donors through smart segmentation, intentional stewardship, and fresh data. 20:55 no What is a midlevel donor, and how do organizations define that? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Alia McKee, principal at Sea Change Strategies, to explore how nonprofits can engage midlevel donors and offer strategies on how to segment effectively, steward with intention, and recognize the long-term value of these supporters. nonprofit, podcast, communications, fundraising, midlevel donors What is a midlevel donor, and how do organizations define that? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Alia McKee, principal at Sea Change Strategies, to explore how nonprofits can engage midlevel donors and offer strategies on how to segment effectively, steward with intention, and recognize the long-term value of these supporters.

]]> What is a midlevel donor, and how do organizations define that? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Alia McKee, principal at Sea Change Strategies, to explore how nonprofits can engage midlevel donors and offer strategies on how to segment effectively, steward with intention, and recognize the long-term value of these supporters.

]]> Episode 187: How can you shape your AI brand footprint? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/187 eb6eeba0-54ac-49f6-978c-cd1f6f6388b9 Thu, 29 May 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn more about what AI says about your nonprofit brand and ways to leverage ChatGPT, Google search, analytics, and more. 18:32 no How does AI perceive your nonprofit brand? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by George Weiner, founder and chief whaler at Whole Whale, to explore “AI brand footprints” and how to proactively shape your visibility in tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI search. They explore how traditional SEO is shifting and what you can do to revisit your content strategy. nonprofit, podcast, communications, AI, brand footprint, branding How does AI perceive your nonprofit brand? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by George Weiner, founder and chief whaler at Whole Whale, to explore “AI brand footprints” and how to proactively shape your visibility in tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI search. They explore how traditional SEO is shifting and what you can do to revisit your content strategy.

]]> How does AI perceive your nonprofit brand? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by George Weiner, founder and chief whaler at Whole Whale, to explore “AI brand footprints” and how to proactively shape your visibility in tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI search. They explore how traditional SEO is shifting and what you can do to revisit your content strategy.

]]> Episode 185: How can you approach AI with an equity lens? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/185 1fce5402-22cc-4572-a9ca-32b7611a8a00 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover how nonprofits can approach AI with an equity lens and move from task-based tools to mission-centered strategies. 25:07 no Are you curious about using AI without compromising your values? In this episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Meena Das, founder of Namaste Data, to unpack findings from the AI Equity Project and offer practical advice for nonprofits navigating this evolving technology. nonprofit, podcast, communications, AI, artificial intelligence, equity Are you curious about using AI without compromising your values? In this episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Meena Das, founder of Namaste Data, to unpack findings from the AI Equity Project and offer practical advice for nonprofits navigating this evolving technology.

]]> Are you curious about using AI without compromising your values? In this episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Meena Das, founder of Namaste Data, to unpack findings from the AI Equity Project and offer practical advice for nonprofits navigating this evolving technology.

]]> Episode 184: Should your organization consider a merger? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/184 ac0940ae-3e4b-4c80-b214-5daea8a4f778 Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck What happens when two complementary nonprofits become one? Hear how Idealist and VolunteerMatch joined forces—and what your organization should ask as it pursues mergers or other deep partnerships. 24:00 no What happens when two mission-aligned nonprofits decide to merge? Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Idealist’s founder and executive director, Ami Dar, about their recent merger with VolunteerMatch—and what other orgs can learn from it. nonprofit, communications, podcast, merger What happens when two mission-aligned nonprofits decide to merge? Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Idealist’s founder and executive director, Ami Dar, about their recent merger with VolunteerMatch—and what other orgs can learn from it.

]]> What happens when two mission-aligned nonprofits decide to merge? Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Idealist’s founder and executive director, Ami Dar, about their recent merger with VolunteerMatch—and what other orgs can learn from it.

]]> Episode 183: How can you break free from being busy? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/183 8bc6de33-d63b-46c8-93db-8019bebba0f1 Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover how to break the cycle of busyness and reclaim your time. Explore mindset shifts and strategies to create space for what truly matters in your work and personal life. 30:05 no Are you constantly busy but never feel accomplished? Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Kishshana Palmer, author, discuss Kishshana’s book, Busy Is a Four-Letter Word: A Guide to Achieving More by Doing Less, what it means to work smarter, not harder, and offer practical insights for how personal development is professional development nonprofit, podcast, communications, teams Are you constantly busy but never feel accomplished? Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Kishshana Palmer, author, discuss Kishshana’s book, Busy Is a Four-Letter Word: A Guide to Achieving More by Doing Less, what it means to work smarter, not harder, and offer practical insights for how personal development is professional development

]]> Are you constantly busy but never feel accomplished? Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Kishshana Palmer, author, discuss Kishshana’s book, Busy Is a Four-Letter Word: A Guide to Achieving More by Doing Less, what it means to work smarter, not harder, and offer practical insights for how personal development is professional development

]]> Episode 182: How can you build resilient nonprofit organizations and teams? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/182 e37a611b-0296-4fe9-806f-33c0d7099a99 Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Building resilience starts with people. Learn how nonprofits can foster adaptable teams, avoid burnout, and strengthen fundraising for a sustainable future. 18:50 no Resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential for nonprofit success. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Peter Heller, founder of Heller Fundraising Group, explore what it means when staff are resilient and supported, and how leaders can support their teams, adapt to change, and fundraise for a strong future. nonprofit, podcast, communications, teams, resilience Resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential for nonprofit success. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Peter Heller, founder of Heller Fundraising Group, explore what it means when staff are resilient and supported, and how leaders can support their teams, adapt to change, and fundraise for a strong future.

]]> Resilience isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential for nonprofit success. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Peter Heller, founder of Heller Fundraising Group, explore what it means when staff are resilient and supported, and how leaders can support their teams, adapt to change, and fundraise for a strong future.

]]> Episode 181: How do we foster healthy group participation? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/181 f610991c-e58d-4c7a-8faa-5f64fa9761f2 Wed, 05 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover how to get people to be more active in conversations and learn strategies to enhance collaboration, inclusion, and engagement in nonprofit teams. 16:16 no Healthy participation is a process not an outcome. How do we create spaces where everyone feels valued and engaged? Sarita Joseph, director of accounts, and Josh Kelley, senior account manager, explore the importance of this topic and share practical tips to enhance collaboration, inclusivity, and effectiveness in nonprofit settings. nonprofit, podcast, teams, collaboration, communications Healthy participation is a process not an outcome. How do we create spaces where everyone feels valued and engaged? Sarita Joseph, director of accounts, and Josh Kelley, senior account manager, explore the importance of this topic and share practical tips to enhance collaboration, inclusivity, and effectiveness in nonprofit settings.

]]> Healthy participation is a process not an outcome. How do we create spaces where everyone feels valued and engaged? Sarita Joseph, director of accounts, and Josh Kelley, senior account manager, explore the importance of this topic and share practical tips to enhance collaboration, inclusivity, and effectiveness in nonprofit settings.

]]> Episode 180: Is it time to reboot your communications strategy? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/180 dcc5e84d-3f88-4b5a-9088-ad0df9c3811f Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover the latest nonprofit communications trends and explore how nonprofits can reboot their strategies for better results in 2025. 22:11 no Is it time to reboot your nonprofit’s communications strategy? In this episode, Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, and Farra Trompeter, co-director, discuss the latest nonprofit communications trends, the need to focus, evolve, and reflect on approaches, challenges staff face, and why nonprofits may need to reboot their communication strategy. nonprofit, podcast, communications, strategy, teams, trends Is it time to reboot your nonprofit’s communications strategy? In this episode, Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, and Farra Trompeter, co-director, discuss the latest nonprofit communications trends, the need to focus, evolve, and reflect on approaches, challenges staff face, and why nonprofits may need to reboot their communication strategy.

]]> Is it time to reboot your nonprofit’s communications strategy? In this episode, Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, and Farra Trompeter, co-director, discuss the latest nonprofit communications trends, the need to focus, evolve, and reflect on approaches, challenges staff face, and why nonprofits may need to reboot their communication strategy.

]]> Episode 179: How can a language guide help your nonprofit? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/179 5968d2cd-4a01-4d30-b383-fb61db59dc74 Wed, 05 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Explore why language guides matter for nonprofits. Learn how intentional language strengthens impact, ensures consistency, and aligns teams. 17:30 no Language shapes how nonprofits connect, engage, and drive impact. Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Ryan Gerhard, copy director, explore why a language guide is helpful, how it differs from a brand guide, and the steps needed to create one. nonprofit, podcast, teams, language guide, communications Language shapes how nonprofits connect, engage, and drive impact. Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Ryan Gerhard, copy director, explore why a language guide is helpful, how it differs from a brand guide, and the steps needed to create one.

]]> Language shapes how nonprofits connect, engage, and drive impact. Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Ryan Gerhard, copy director, explore why a language guide is helpful, how it differs from a brand guide, and the steps needed to create one.

]]> Episode 177: How can you engage your community with campaigns? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/177 2fcc3185-e79c-4234-a532-7e147129e835 Wed, 08 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Explore how nonprofits can engage communities with effective digital advocacy campaigns using the AGILE framework, real-world examples, and actionable strategies. 20:18 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Nicholas Bruneau, communications consultant and author of Engage with Impact. Together, they explore how nonprofits can use the AGILE framework to create effective campaigns, deepen community engagement, and drive real-world change. They share actionable tips for nonprofits to foster collaboration, and turn social media followers into active partners. nonprofit, podcast, AGILE, campaigns, communications Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Nicholas Bruneau, communications consultant and author of Engage with Impact. Together, they explore how nonprofits can use the AGILE framework to create effective campaigns, deepen community engagement, and drive real-world change. They share actionable tips for nonprofits to foster collaboration, and turn social media followers into active partners.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Nicholas Bruneau, communications consultant and author of Engage with Impact. Together, they explore how nonprofits can use the AGILE framework to create effective campaigns, deepen community engagement, and drive real-world change. They share actionable tips for nonprofits to foster collaboration, and turn social media followers into active partners.

]]> Episode 175: Should the media be an audience for your brand? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/175 ce309aea-95e0-48a3-8884-04b691c7e714 Tue, 26 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn if media outreach is worth the investment for your nonprofit. Get tips on building relationships with journalists, measuring impact, and more. 21:43 no Media coverage can expand a nonprofit’s reach, but with limited resources, it can be hard to know where to invest. In this conversation, Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Michelle Behar, senior strategist, explore practical tips for nonprofits to evaluate if media outreach is worth the investment and share strategies on building relationships with journalists, measuring impact, and more. nonprofit, podcast, communications, PR, media Media coverage can expand a nonprofit’s reach, but with limited resources, it can be hard to know where to invest. In this conversation, Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Michelle Behar, senior strategist, explore practical tips for nonprofits to evaluate if media outreach is worth the investment and share strategies on building relationships with journalists, measuring impact, and more.

]]> Media coverage can expand a nonprofit’s reach, but with limited resources, it can be hard to know where to invest. In this conversation, Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Michelle Behar, senior strategist, explore practical tips for nonprofits to evaluate if media outreach is worth the investment and share strategies on building relationships with journalists, measuring impact, and more.

]]> Episode 173: How can you use AI for strategic communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/173 05716db4-49b7-4af6-9578-423a2ac4a213 Wed, 30 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping how nonprofits communicate, including what to consider and what to avoid. 22:06 no How is artificial intelligence reshaping the nonprofit landscape? Alexandra M. Merceron, executive vice president at RUBENSTEIN, joins Farra Trompeter, co-director, to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on nonprofits. They discuss emerging themes, risks, ethical concerns, how to navigate AI’s challenges, available safeguards, and three key implications AI has on nonprofit communications. nonprofit, podcast, artificial intelligence, AI, communications How is artificial intelligence reshaping the nonprofit landscape? Alexandra M. Merceron, executive vice president at RUBENSTEIN, joins Farra Trompeter, co-director, to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on nonprofits. They discuss emerging themes, risks, ethical concerns, how to navigate AI’s challenges, available safeguards, and three key implications AI has on nonprofit communications.

]]> How is artificial intelligence reshaping the nonprofit landscape? Alexandra M. Merceron, executive vice president at RUBENSTEIN, joins Farra Trompeter, co-director, to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on nonprofits. They discuss emerging themes, risks, ethical concerns, how to navigate AI’s challenges, available safeguards, and three key implications AI has on nonprofit communications.

]]> Episode 172: What is the role of fundraisers in creating social change? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/172 c8235a83-f404-4758-ae88-48dcc724c7aa Wed, 16 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Consider how fundraisers can shift practices and continue to push for meaningful change within the nonprofit sector. 20:14 no What lessons do fundraisers need to learn and unlearn? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Mari Eva Mendes, chief development officer at LEAP and founder and principal of MEM Consulting, to discuss the role of fundraisers and the need to challenge problematic practices. They also explore how to partner with donors to honor their investments and ensure that their resources are contributing to systemic change. nonprofit, podcast, campaigns, communications What lessons do fundraisers need to learn and unlearn? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Mari Eva Mendes, chief development officer at LEAP and founder and principal of MEM Consulting, to discuss the role of fundraisers and the need to challenge problematic practices. They also explore how to partner with donors to honor their investments and ensure that their resources are contributing to systemic change.

]]> What lessons do fundraisers need to learn and unlearn? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Mari Eva Mendes, chief development officer at LEAP and founder and principal of MEM Consulting, to discuss the role of fundraisers and the need to challenge problematic practices. They also explore how to partner with donors to honor their investments and ensure that their resources are contributing to systemic change.

]]> Episode 171: How can you start treating donors as partners? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/171 5771a128-a034-423b-865e-d55ee1796d39 Wed, 02 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Explore how to cultivate donor relationships that are partnership-oriented, and get tips on how to communicate differently. 15:09 no Fundraising can involve communicating to people with wealth or power with uneven dynamics. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Emily Bishop Runeari, founder of EBR Consulting, about how to shift conversations with donors to a more partnership-oriented approach, and ways you can educate groups of prospects and donors. nonprofit, podcast, fundraising, campaigns, communications Fundraising can involve communicating to people with wealth or power with uneven dynamics. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Emily Bishop Runeari, founder of EBR Consulting, about how to shift conversations with donors to a more partnership-oriented approach, and ways you can educate groups of prospects and donors.

]]> Fundraising can involve communicating to people with wealth or power with uneven dynamics. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Emily Bishop Runeari, founder of EBR Consulting, about how to shift conversations with donors to a more partnership-oriented approach, and ways you can educate groups of prospects and donors.

]]> Episode 170: How can you conduct marketing and fundraising ethically? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/170 ce5dbddb-84f3-47e3-b58a-cb314ff48b5d Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Get steps nonprofits can take to start fundraising and communicating with more intention and bring new levels of awareness when connecting with key audiences. 33:42 no Doing fundraising and communications work more mindfully requires us to move at a slower pace, ask multiple people for feedback, and truly listen to what's being shared. Farra Trompeter, Co-Director, is joined by Karen Lundgard, Interim Chief Executive Officer for Girl Scouts of Greater New York, Lindsey Cosgrove, Chief of Staff at Greenwich House, and Sasha Prado, CFRE, Senior Manager of Major Gifts at Robin Hood, to chat about their work with Girl Scouts of Greater New York's Troop 6000. They share tools and processes to address problematic language and images in marketing and fundraising contexts. nonprofit, communications, fundraising, podcast, campaigns Doing fundraising and communications work more mindfully requires us to move at a slower pace, ask multiple people for feedback, and truly listen to what's being shared. Farra Trompeter, Co-Director, is joined by Karen Lundgard, Interim Chief Executive Officer for Girl Scouts of Greater New York, Lindsey Cosgrove, Chief of Staff at Greenwich House, and Sasha Prado, CFRE, Senior Manager of Major Gifts at Robin Hood, to chat about their work with Girl Scouts of Greater New York's Troop 6000. They share tools and processes to address problematic language and images in marketing and fundraising contexts.

]]> Doing fundraising and communications work more mindfully requires us to move at a slower pace, ask multiple people for feedback, and truly listen to what's being shared. Farra Trompeter, Co-Director, is joined by Karen Lundgard, Interim Chief Executive Officer for Girl Scouts of Greater New York, Lindsey Cosgrove, Chief of Staff at Greenwich House, and Sasha Prado, CFRE, Senior Manager of Major Gifts at Robin Hood, to chat about their work with Girl Scouts of Greater New York's Troop 6000. They share tools and processes to address problematic language and images in marketing and fundraising contexts.

]]> Episode 169: How can you plan an inclusive and welcoming project? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/169 8c85ca90-f150-43d8-bddd-93080fd5ee73 Wed, 04 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Get tips to create welcoming and inclusive spaces, bring more voices into the room, and lead projects that engage your team and community. 28:39 no Integrating inclusive practices into your projects leads to better outcomes. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by account managers Josh Kelley, and Brenda Perez to discuss how to create stronger and welcoming projects from the outset. They share insights on ways to keep engagement and offer strategies for measuring success through an inclusive perspective. nonprofit, communications, inclusivity Integrating inclusive practices into your projects leads to better outcomes. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by account managers Josh Kelley, and Brenda Perez to discuss how to create stronger and welcoming projects from the outset. They share insights on ways to keep engagement and offer strategies for measuring success through an inclusive perspective.

]]> Integrating inclusive practices into your projects leads to better outcomes. Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by account managers Josh Kelley, and Brenda Perez to discuss how to create stronger and welcoming projects from the outset. They share insights on ways to keep engagement and offer strategies for measuring success through an inclusive perspective.

]]> Episode 168: How can framing inform your strategy? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/168 35805316-e632-42b8-8ba2-79ea1c142328 Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Understand why framing matters and get tips for nonprofit communicators trying to get attention for their issues as we near election day and throughout the year. 30:19 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Dr. Nat Kendall-Taylor, CEO, and Carinne Wheedan, director of communications, at the FrameWorks Institute, to discuss how framing can inform a nonprofit’s communications strategy. They share practical ways that organizations can effectively apply framing to their messaging or campaigns and provide general tips for those in the mission-driven sector. nonprofit, strategic framework, communications Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Dr. Nat Kendall-Taylor, CEO, and Carinne Wheedan, director of communications, at the FrameWorks Institute, to discuss how framing can inform a nonprofit’s communications strategy. They share practical ways that organizations can effectively apply framing to their messaging or campaigns and provide general tips for those in the mission-driven sector.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Dr. Nat Kendall-Taylor, CEO, and Carinne Wheedan, director of communications, at the FrameWorks Institute, to discuss how framing can inform a nonprofit’s communications strategy. They share practical ways that organizations can effectively apply framing to their messaging or campaigns and provide general tips for those in the mission-driven sector.

]]> Episode 167: How do you activate change in a network? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/167 4b5e40b0-b520-409d-99f2-196a7c14e6ed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Is your organization motivated to create change? Learn how to identify patterns of equity and disparity in programs and communications, ways to build and extend trust, and tips for collaboration. 24:36 no Join Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Stacy Van Gorp, PhD, partner-owner at See What I Mean Consulting, as they discuss how change comes about in a network, how good communications is essential to creating change, and activation moments, tools, and activities related to communications that you can integrate into your everyday work. nonprofit, communications Join Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Stacy Van Gorp, PhD, partner-owner at See What I Mean Consulting, as they discuss how change comes about in a network, how good communications is essential to creating change, and activation moments, tools, and activities related to communications that you can integrate into your everyday work.

]]> Join Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Stacy Van Gorp, PhD, partner-owner at See What I Mean Consulting, as they discuss how change comes about in a network, how good communications is essential to creating change, and activation moments, tools, and activities related to communications that you can integrate into your everyday work.

]]> Episode 165: How can my nonprofit benefit from launching a podcast? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/165 c2678200-07fd-4ed2-88aa-ddeb07081b46 Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Get fresh insights about whether or not a podcast is right for your nonprofit and how to decide if it is worth investing your time and resources. 18:05 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Marcus dePaula, audio engineer, podcast producer, and consultant, as they explore what an organization needs to launch a podcast as a part of its nonprofit communications strategy. They discuss factors organizations should consider before starting a podcast series and tips for how to manage podcasts once you get started. nonprofit, communications, podcast Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Marcus dePaula, audio engineer, podcast producer, and consultant, as they explore what an organization needs to launch a podcast as a part of its nonprofit communications strategy. They discuss factors organizations should consider before starting a podcast series and tips for how to manage podcasts once you get started.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Marcus dePaula, audio engineer, podcast producer, and consultant, as they explore what an organization needs to launch a podcast as a part of its nonprofit communications strategy. They discuss factors organizations should consider before starting a podcast series and tips for how to manage podcasts once you get started.

]]> Episode 155: What are the latest nonprofit communications trends? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/155 6e3fffa2-dfdf-443e-a532-9de8e3f78caa Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover new insights and trends to guide how your nonprofit approaches its communications for 2024–including using AI, leaving Twitter/X, applying brand personality, and more. 20:02 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, about the latest nonprofit communications trends, including hot topics like AI, brand archetypes, and the structure of communications teams. nonprofit, marketing, communications Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, about the latest nonprofit communications trends, including hot topics like AI, brand archetypes, and the structure of communications teams.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of the Nonprofit Marketing Guide, about the latest nonprofit communications trends, including hot topics like AI, brand archetypes, and the structure of communications teams.

]]> Episode 149: How can you bring accessibility and inclusion into your communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/149 a70d97d3-035e-4d44-acb5-cc7536c25e54 Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Creating accessible practices benefits more than just those with disabilities. Learn how to make the world a better place by including everyone in your nonprofit communications. 22:45 no Farra Trompeter is joined by Kerry Thompson, senior advisor for inclusion and accessibility at the Disability Rights Fund and the Disability Rights Advocacy Fund, to discuss the significance of incorporating accessibility and inclusion in your nonprofit communications and sheds light on how she is designing DRF's internal processes, policies, and practices to serve as an example for other organizations. Disability, Disability Rights, Accessibility, Communications, Teams Farra Trompeter is joined by Kerry Thompson, senior advisor for inclusion and accessibility at the Disability Rights Fund and the Disability Rights Advocacy Fund, to discuss the significance of incorporating accessibility and inclusion in your nonprofit communications and sheds light on how she is designing DRF's internal processes, policies, and practices to serve as an example for other organizations.

]]> Farra Trompeter is joined by Kerry Thompson, senior advisor for inclusion and accessibility at the Disability Rights Fund and the Disability Rights Advocacy Fund, to discuss the significance of incorporating accessibility and inclusion in your nonprofit communications and sheds light on how she is designing DRF's internal processes, policies, and practices to serve as an example for other organizations.

]]> Episode 148: What do nonprofits need to know about AI and data science? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/148 fc6f6eea-ea8b-49e7-bc6b-8411258cfe66 Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn how to apply artificial intelligence (AI) in your nonprofit’s donor communications and fundraising.! Get use cases and practical tips for navigating these newer technologies. 20:38 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Dr. Ashutosh Nandeshwar, senior vice president of data science and analytics at CCS Fundraising to talk about how nonprofits should approach AI, various use cases, and practical tips that nonprofits can use to determine how it can work for your organization. Artificial Intelligence, Communications, Fundraising Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Dr. Ashutosh Nandeshwar, senior vice president of data science and analytics at CCS Fundraising to talk about how nonprofits should approach AI, various use cases, and practical tips that nonprofits can use to determine how it can work for your organization.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Dr. Ashutosh Nandeshwar, senior vice president of data science and analytics at CCS Fundraising to talk about how nonprofits should approach AI, various use cases, and practical tips that nonprofits can use to determine how it can work for your organization.

]]> Episode 139: How can you create messaging and communications that reflect the principles of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/139 9cbc3698-6fbd-451e-bf17-36cbd7e417ab Thu, 22 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Discover how organizations can standardize and update their approach to language and authentically connect communications with equity work. 16:35 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, delves into the topic of creating messaging and communications that embody justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles with Vanessa Wakeman, founder, and CEO of The Wakeman Agency. nonprofit, teams, communications Farra Trompeter, co-director, delves into the topic of creating messaging and communications that embody justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles with Vanessa Wakeman, founder, and CEO of The Wakeman Agency.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, delves into the topic of creating messaging and communications that embody justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles with Vanessa Wakeman, founder, and CEO of The Wakeman Agency.

]]> Episode 138: How should new communications directors approach their role? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/138 df24ef12-9ee7-4a7e-bbb5-b4d82ebcf353 Wed, 07 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Explore the unique challenges and opportunities nonprofit communications directors face, including what works and what doesn't, with a focus on how to succeed in the first three months. 23:32 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Ally Dommu, director of service development, share insights and strategies for those starting or looking to refresh their approach to leading communications at their nonprofit. Whether you're onboarding a new communications director or seeking a fresh perspective, this episode offers valuable insights for all. nonprofit, podcast, communications Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Ally Dommu, director of service development, share insights and strategies for those starting or looking to refresh their approach to leading communications at their nonprofit. Whether you're onboarding a new communications director or seeking a fresh perspective, this episode offers valuable insights for all.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Ally Dommu, director of service development, share insights and strategies for those starting or looking to refresh their approach to leading communications at their nonprofit. Whether you're onboarding a new communications director or seeking a fresh perspective, this episode offers valuable insights for all.

]]> Episode 136: How can we bring radical honesty to communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/136 6c8a7e5c-8a49-4c76-9b51-d655c4a2b826 Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Is your storytelling full of toxic positivity or genuine transparency? Learn about bringing radical honesty to your communications and tips for integrating it into your nonprofit's messaging. 28:42 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Marisa DeSalles, founder of Good Tilth LLC, and Michelle Flores Vryn, chief development officer with OneStar, about radical honesty and the power of rooting truth and trust throughout your communications. nonprofit, podcast, communications Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Marisa DeSalles, founder of Good Tilth LLC, and Michelle Flores Vryn, chief development officer with OneStar, about radical honesty and the power of rooting truth and trust throughout your communications.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Marisa DeSalles, founder of Good Tilth LLC, and Michelle Flores Vryn, chief development officer with OneStar, about radical honesty and the power of rooting truth and trust throughout your communications.

]]> Episode 132: What can messaging do for your organization? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/132 5512aaed-25eb-437c-bdc7-40cc9146dd9e Wed, 15 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Strong internal communications can lead to better external communications. Get examples of how to engage your team in using your vision, mission, values, and messaging as you communicate to others. 18:46 no A nonprofit’s approach to messaging should strategically advance its mission and engage its staff as brand ambassadors. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Wayne Ho, president and CEO of the Chinese-American Planning Council, about the lasting impact of their branding and messaging work. nonprofit, podcast, communications, values A nonprofit’s approach to messaging should strategically advance its mission and engage its staff as brand ambassadors. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Wayne Ho, president and CEO of the Chinese-American Planning Council, about the lasting impact of their branding and messaging work.

]]> A nonprofit’s approach to messaging should strategically advance its mission and engage its staff as brand ambassadors. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Wayne Ho, president and CEO of the Chinese-American Planning Council, about the lasting impact of their branding and messaging work.

]]> Episode 131: What are the latest nonprofit communications trends? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/131 6fc94072-1e18-4636-ace3-587047faa272 Wed, 01 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck What models could add structure to your communications team? What trends might strengthen your nonprofit's communications? Tune in for tips and insights based on what works for most organizations. 19:14 no A nonprofit’s approach to communications should strategically advance its mission. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of Nonprofit Marketing Guide, about ways to refine your team’s communications initiatives nonprofit, communications, strategy, podcast A nonprofit’s approach to communications should strategically advance its mission. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of Nonprofit Marketing Guide, about ways to refine your team’s communications initiatives

]]> A nonprofit’s approach to communications should strategically advance its mission. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Kivi Leroux Miller, founder and CEO of Nonprofit Marketing Guide, about ways to refine your team’s communications initiatives

]]> Episode 129: How can development and communications teams work better together? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/129 ca47631b-c794-4925-bb79-3ff0af201821 Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck What are the best structures and guidelines to strengthen your internal communications and outreach? Tune in for examples and tips to sync up efforts and help your nonprofit connect with others. 23:39 no Clear communication and shared strategy internally are essential to strong external communications. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Sunil Oommen, President of Oomen Consulting LLC, about why collaboration between your teams is so important. podcast, nonprofit, communications, fundraising Clear communication and shared strategy internally are essential to strong external communications. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Sunil Oommen, President of Oomen Consulting LLC, about why collaboration between your teams is so important.

]]> Clear communication and shared strategy internally are essential to strong external communications. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Sunil Oommen, President of Oomen Consulting LLC, about why collaboration between your teams is so important.

]]> Episode 124: Why should you try new approaches in your donor communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/124 1a665ed8-0a0c-4f63-9d99-5c88cde8b0bc Wed, 09 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Is your org questioning how it raises money & communicates w/ donors? Listen to this podcast for tips on how to challenge the status quo, including community-centric fundraising insights & strategies. 23:03 no How do you center equity and justice in your fundraising efforts? Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Gladiator Consulting, Rachel D'Souza-Siebert, chats with co-director, Farra Trompeter about how to shift our relationships with donors and bring more abundance to our fundraising. podcast, nonprofit, campaign, fundraising, communications How do you center equity and justice in your fundraising efforts? Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Gladiator Consulting, Rachel D'Souza-Siebert, chats with co-director, Farra Trompeter about how to shift our relationships with donors and bring more abundance to our fundraising.

]]> How do you center equity and justice in your fundraising efforts? Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Gladiator Consulting, Rachel D'Souza-Siebert, chats with co-director, Farra Trompeter about how to shift our relationships with donors and bring more abundance to our fundraising.

]]> Episode 121: Why should you prioritize internal communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/121 f5fd0035-41a4-4409-9b7f-330902c27be7 Wed, 28 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Why should you prioritize internal communications and your staff? Tune in to find out the pros and cons of having someone on your communications team focused on communicating with staff. 15:58 no Communicating first or at the same time with your staff as external communications roll out builds trust. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Fatima Jones, senior director of marketing and communication, at The Apollo, about what a high-functioning internal communications team can look like. podcast, communications, nonprofit, teams Communicating first or at the same time with your staff as external communications roll out builds trust. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Fatima Jones, senior director of marketing and communication, at The Apollo, about what a high-functioning internal communications team can look like.

]]> Communicating first or at the same time with your staff as external communications roll out builds trust. Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Fatima Jones, senior director of marketing and communication, at The Apollo, about what a high-functioning internal communications team can look like.

]]> Episode 120: How can you engage your community in your brand? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/120 71585170-9dcf-4236-9578-bb84425492ee Wed, 14 Sep 2022 12:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Who is involved in building your brand now, and who needs to be involved in the future, to advance your nonprofit’s mission? Learn why and how to involve the community most impacted by your work in how you communicate. 15:06 no Why is it important to center your community in shaping and representing your organization’s brand? Ally Dommu, director of strategy, talks with Farra Trompeter, co-director, about the value and practices of community-informed branding. nonprofit, communications, branding, community Why is it important to center your community in shaping and representing your organization’s brand? Ally Dommu, director of strategy, talks with Farra Trompeter, co-director, about the value and practices of community-informed branding.

]]> Why is it important to center your community in shaping and representing your organization’s brand? Ally Dommu, director of strategy, talks with Farra Trompeter, co-director, about the value and practices of community-informed branding.

]]> Episode 118: How can you use your vision, mission, and values to guide your donor communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/118 6f2884e3-116f-4676-92f8-1b6e5edb2121 Wed, 03 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn how the Ms. Foundation for Women uses their vision, mission, and values to guide their marketing and communications. 19:54 no How can your organization use its vision, mission, and values to guide and inform your work? Farra, co-director, talks with Ruth McFarlane, chief advancement officer at Ms. Foundation for Women about their vision, mission, and value statements and how they were created. nonprofit, communications, fundraising, marketing How can your organization use its vision, mission, and values to guide and inform your work? Farra, co-director, talks with Ruth McFarlane, chief advancement officer at Ms. Foundation for Women about their vision, mission, and value statements and how they were created.

]]> How can your organization use its vision, mission, and values to guide and inform your work? Farra, co-director, talks with Ruth McFarlane, chief advancement officer at Ms. Foundation for Women about their vision, mission, and value statements and how they were created.

]]> Episode 117: How does branding make things easier? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/117 eece60f0-d244-4035-91b9-b6109936430c Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn more about how branding gives nonprofits the tools to communicate more clearly and makes fundraising easier and how one organization’s new brand infuses their commitment to equity and more. 14:25 no Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Elandria Jackson Charles, chief development and communications officer at Blue Engine, about their decision to rebrand and the freedom and confidence that comes from being clear on who you are and what you stand for. nonprofit, podcast, communications, branding, fundraising Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Elandria Jackson Charles, chief development and communications officer at Blue Engine, about their decision to rebrand and the freedom and confidence that comes from being clear on who you are and what you stand for.

]]> Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Elandria Jackson Charles, chief development and communications officer at Blue Engine, about their decision to rebrand and the freedom and confidence that comes from being clear on who you are and what you stand for.

]]> Episode 110: How can technology create an equitable world? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/110 faeaa1d9-cd78-4df3-a90e-2c3a7030049b Wed, 13 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Technology can strengthen our ability to communicate across society, across communities, across families, and across individuals. Listen and learn how to shift our relationship to technology. 23:54 no How can tech better meet community needs? Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with leading public interest technologist, Afua Bruce, and CEO of NTEN, Amy Sample Ward about their book “The Tech That Comes Next, How Changemakers, Philanthropists, and Technologists can Build an Equitable World.” and how to use technology for social change. communications, nonprofit, teams How can tech better meet community needs? Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with leading public interest technologist, Afua Bruce, and CEO of NTEN, Amy Sample Ward about their book “The Tech That Comes Next, How Changemakers, Philanthropists, and Technologists can Build an Equitable World.” and how to use technology for social change.

]]> How can tech better meet community needs? Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with leading public interest technologist, Afua Bruce, and CEO of NTEN, Amy Sample Ward about their book “The Tech That Comes Next, How Changemakers, Philanthropists, and Technologists can Build an Equitable World.” and how to use technology for social change.

]]> Episode 106: Protecting one's time: How can wellbeing play into decision-making? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/106 dbe0ea2e-ca8e-4cec-ba13-8e80f43169a7 Wed, 16 Feb 2022 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Learn the value of starting with why, self-care, and the art of delaying with Big Duck’s Hannah Thomas and Fatima Jones, senior director of marketing & comms at the Apollo Theater. 22:52 no How do you describe how you make decisions in your role? Hannah Thomas, director of learning and innovation at Big Duck, talks with Fatima Jones, senior director of marketing and communications at the Apollo Theater, to discuss how to set up boundaries to protect your time and wellbeing and how to enforce these boundaries in your decision-making process. nonprofit, communications, teams How do you describe how you make decisions in your role? Hannah Thomas, director of learning and innovation at Big Duck, talks with Fatima Jones, senior director of marketing and communications at the Apollo Theater, to discuss how to set up boundaries to protect your time and wellbeing and how to enforce these boundaries in your decision-making process.

]]> How do you describe how you make decisions in your role? Hannah Thomas, director of learning and innovation at Big Duck, talks with Fatima Jones, senior director of marketing and communications at the Apollo Theater, to discuss how to set up boundaries to protect your time and wellbeing and how to enforce these boundaries in your decision-making process.

]]> Episode 103: Tiny Habits: How can small changes change everything? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/103 d1d38714-36a7-45c4-8d3d-fc6350bfeaab Wed, 05 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Get tips on how to take five days to learn about yourself and learn about the tiny habits that you chose. 22:34 no It’s a new year! Do you have new behaviors you want to adopt or unwanted behaviors you want to stop? Tiny Habits is a simple and effective method to change behavior. Learn how to change behaviors or adopt new ones with Farra Trompeter, co-director and Edith Asibey founder of Asibey consulting. nonprofit, communications, teams It’s a new year! Do you have new behaviors you want to adopt or unwanted behaviors you want to stop? Tiny Habits is a simple and effective method to change behavior. Learn how to change behaviors or adopt new ones with Farra Trompeter, co-director and Edith Asibey founder of Asibey consulting.

]]> It’s a new year! Do you have new behaviors you want to adopt or unwanted behaviors you want to stop? Tiny Habits is a simple and effective method to change behavior. Learn how to change behaviors or adopt new ones with Farra Trompeter, co-director and Edith Asibey founder of Asibey consulting.

]]> Episode 78: Marketing versus communications: what's the difference? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/78 ac906d12-e411-44f3-ae45-953a5d67651c Wed, 13 Jan 2021 13:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Should marketing and communications be separate departments? Sarah Durham sits down with marketing and communications expert Samantha Campbell to examine the difference. 22:31 no In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Sarah Durham sits down with Samantha Campbell, marketing and communications expert and former Director of Marketing, Communication and Sales at the Apollo Theater, to examine the differences between marketing and communications. nonprofit, marketing, communications In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Sarah Durham sits down with Samantha Campbell, marketing and communications expert and former Director of Marketing, Communication and Sales at the Apollo Theater, to examine the differences between marketing and communications.

]]> In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Sarah Durham sits down with Samantha Campbell, marketing and communications expert and former Director of Marketing, Communication and Sales at the Apollo Theater, to examine the differences between marketing and communications.

]]> Episode 67: How do you build sustainable momentum into your communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/67 d0ed809b-0c30-4730-9001-dab2e85fcdd5 Wed, 19 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham discusses common challenges to nonprofits generating sustainable momentum in their communications and offers ways to address them using six key brand elements. 17:53 no Sarah Durham discusses how nonprofits generate sustainable momentum in their communications. She identifies common challenges, including bottlenecks created by leadership micromanagement and a lack of staff accountability, and offers ways to address them. Tune in to hear about the six key elements that can help your organization create sustainable momentum in its communications. nonprofit, communications, sustainable momentum, micromanagement, accountability, strategy, team, culture, tools, processes, reflection Sarah Durham discusses how nonprofits generate sustainable momentum in their communications. She identifies common challenges, including bottlenecks created by leadership micromanagement and a lack of staff accountability, and offers ways to address them. Tune in to hear about the six key elements that can help your organization create sustainable momentum in its communications.

]]> Sarah Durham discusses how nonprofits generate sustainable momentum in their communications. She identifies common challenges, including bottlenecks created by leadership micromanagement and a lack of staff accountability, and offers ways to address them. Tune in to hear about the six key elements that can help your organization create sustainable momentum in its communications.

]]> Episode 54: How do you ask for a really, really, really big donation? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/54 6e75ff76-cdcb-43b5-b299-3747b52494ce Wed, 05 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham and Eric Javier tell us the best way to get that transformational donation for your nonprofit. 15:28 no Sarah Durham and Eric Javier discuss the 80/20 rule, the ladder of engagement, and how to articulate your vision to donors. Listen in to learn how your nonprofit can get their next really big donation to transform the organization. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, donation, donations, engagement, giving, donor, donors Sarah Durham and Eric Javier discuss the 80/20 rule, the ladder of engagement, and how to articulate your vision to donors. Listen in to learn how your nonprofit can get their next really big donation to transform the organization.

]]> Sarah Durham and Eric Javier discuss the 80/20 rule, the ladder of engagement, and how to articulate your vision to donors. Listen in to learn how your nonprofit can get their next really big donation to transform the organization.

]]> Episode 68: Why is a clear voice important for nonprofits? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/68 d43d018e-401b-444d-8b35-a8170ba4df0f Wed, 22 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Is your nonprofit a best-kept-secret? Learn how developing a clear, credible, and consistent voice can help you build and maintain deeper mindshare and engagement with your audiences. 15:30 no Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck and Advomatic, goes deep into the topic of organizational voice—what it is, how to create it, maintain it, and more. Building on the insights in her book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine (https://bigduck.com/insights/nonprofit-communications-engine/), she connects the work of establishing a clear and consistent voice to building deeper relationships and mindshare with audiences. Tune in to learn how you can start developing your nonprofit’s voice and get answers to common branding questions. nonprofit, nonprofit branding, branding, nonprofit organization, donors, audiences, communications Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck and Advomatic, goes deep into the topic of organizational voice—what it is, how to create it, maintain it, and more. Building on the insights in her book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, she connects the work of establishing a clear and consistent voice to building deeper relationships and mindshare with audiences. Tune in to learn how you can start developing your nonprofit’s voice and get answers to common branding questions.

]]> Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck and Advomatic, goes deep into the topic of organizational voice—what it is, how to create it, maintain it, and more. Building on the insights in her book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, she connects the work of establishing a clear and consistent voice to building deeper relationships and mindshare with audiences. Tune in to learn how you can start developing your nonprofit’s voice and get answers to common branding questions.

]]> Episode 56: How can you make your website friendlier and more accessible? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/56 136884aa-fdfe-4f01-93eb-cf8a4a4440d1 Wed, 08 Jul 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham and Amanda Luker discuss how your website can benefit from becoming more user-friendly. 11:44 no Advomatic’s Sarah Durham and Amanda Luker discuss how to constantly improve your website, create different ways to experience content, and run accessibility audits of your nonprofit’s website. Learn how you can make your website friendlier to all users, including those who are differently abled. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, accessibility, inclusive branding, website, content Advomatic’s Sarah Durham and Amanda Luker discuss how to constantly improve your website, create different ways to experience content, and run accessibility audits of your nonprofit’s website. Learn how you can make your website friendlier to all users, including those who are differently abled.

]]> Advomatic’s Sarah Durham and Amanda Luker discuss how to constantly improve your website, create different ways to experience content, and run accessibility audits of your nonprofit’s website. Learn how you can make your website friendlier to all users, including those who are differently abled.

]]> Episode 66: How can you communicate better via Zoom? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/66 f30c51da-a6b9-440b-a627-7f83b503a631 Wed, 24 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Stay-at-home orders across the country have increased the amount of daily interaction that occurs over video calls. Discover ways to maximize the effectiveness of each call while reducing burnout. 7:09 no Big Duck CEO Sarah Durham explores ways in which COVID-19 shelter-in-place restrictions have made us all increasingly dependent on video conferencing tools like Zoom. She shares a couple of tips and tricks to get more out of each digital interaction and to also combat the accompanying screen-time fatigue. Listen in to learn how creating “pop-up rules” or norms can improve the experience for everyone involved. nonprofit, communications, Zoom, video conferencing, COVID-19, screen time, fatigue Big Duck CEO Sarah Durham explores ways in which COVID-19 shelter-in-place restrictions have made us all increasingly dependent on video conferencing tools like Zoom. She shares a couple of tips and tricks to get more out of each digital interaction and to also combat the accompanying screen-time fatigue. Listen in to learn how creating “pop-up rules” or norms can improve the experience for everyone involved.

]]> Big Duck CEO Sarah Durham explores ways in which COVID-19 shelter-in-place restrictions have made us all increasingly dependent on video conferencing tools like Zoom. She shares a couple of tips and tricks to get more out of each digital interaction and to also combat the accompanying screen-time fatigue. Listen in to learn how creating “pop-up rules” or norms can improve the experience for everyone involved.

]]> Episode 62: How can you disrupt power dynamics and bring a DEI lens to your major donor relationships? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/62 46a372e9-10ee-4ade-a7c9-2eb4275ee590 Wed, 10 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck What roles and power do your donors have? Learn how to center your participants while maintaining donor relationships by applying a DEI lens with Sarah Durham and Hannah Thomas. 12:28 no Sarah Durham and strategist Hannah Thomas discuss how DEI plays an important role in your capital campaigns and other major donor communications. Centering your communications on participants and being aware of how you may be “privileging” your donors is the first step. Tune in to find out how you can reevaluate your organization’s donor centrism. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, donor centrism, donors, capital campaign Sarah Durham and strategist Hannah Thomas discuss how DEI plays an important role in your capital campaigns and other major donor communications. Centering your communications on participants and being aware of how you may be “privileging” your donors is the first step. Tune in to find out how you can reevaluate your organization’s donor centrism.

]]> Sarah Durham and strategist Hannah Thomas discuss how DEI plays an important role in your capital campaigns and other major donor communications. Centering your communications on participants and being aware of how you may be “privileging” your donors is the first step. Tune in to find out how you can reevaluate your organization’s donor centrism.

]]> Episode 61: What are the six elements your communications need to thrive? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/61 76e92a32-5a72-4c18-8b02-34d1f9850bf0 Wed, 13 May 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham’s new book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, explains the six elements your communications need to succeed. 6:16 no Big Duck’s latest book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine (https://amzn.to/2Tc6GOL), outlines a simple model for nonprofit communicators and leaders that makes it easier for them to leverage communications in order to advance their mission. Nonprofit CEOs and staff who manage communications can use this book to set clearer goals, guide their planning and activities, identify gaps in their expertise, and discover opportunities to strengthen their communications. In this podcast, Sarah Durham breaks down six key communications elements. nonprofit communications engine, nonprofit leaders, teams Big Duck’s latest book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, outlines a simple model for nonprofit communicators and leaders that makes it easier for them to leverage communications in order to advance their mission.

Nonprofit CEOs and staff who manage communications can use this book to set clearer goals, guide their planning and activities, identify gaps in their expertise, and discover opportunities to strengthen their communications. In this podcast, Sarah Durham breaks down six key communications elements.

]]> Big Duck’s latest book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, outlines a simple model for nonprofit communicators and leaders that makes it easier for them to leverage communications in order to advance their mission.

Nonprofit CEOs and staff who manage communications can use this book to set clearer goals, guide their planning and activities, identify gaps in their expertise, and discover opportunities to strengthen their communications. In this podcast, Sarah Durham breaks down six key communications elements.

]]> Episode 60: Why should your Executive Director prioritize communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/60 bb396b84-6aa1-4b24-a9d9-909b85af7f6d Wed, 29 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Farra Trompeter and Sarah Durham discuss the many flavors of communications teams and how to help leaders understand what communications can—and can’t—do to advance the mission. 17:50 no Communications can have a big impact on many aspects of your nonprofit's mission, from mobilizing activists to attracting donors and other supporters who are critical to your work. Farra Trompeter and Sarah Durham talk about the importance of communications, how to get your executive director to think differently about it, and a few of the principles in Sarah’s new book (https://amzn.to/2Tc6GOL). nonprofit, nonprofit communications, executive director, mission Communications can have a big impact on many aspects of your nonprofit's mission, from mobilizing activists to attracting donors and other supporters who are critical to your work. Farra Trompeter and Sarah Durham talk about the importance of communications, how to get your executive director to think differently about it, and a few of the principles in Sarah’s new book.

]]> Communications can have a big impact on many aspects of your nonprofit's mission, from mobilizing activists to attracting donors and other supporters who are critical to your work. Farra Trompeter and Sarah Durham talk about the importance of communications, how to get your executive director to think differently about it, and a few of the principles in Sarah’s new book.

]]> Episode 59: Should your logo stand out or fit in? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/59 4d08c212-009b-4b4a-8e38-6298dac929b5 Wed, 15 Apr 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham and Sandy Zimmerman discuss the sweet spot for your organization’s logo. 12:16 no Big Duck’s CEO Sarah Durham and Design Director Sandy Zimmerman discuss logos. If you are contemplating a new logo, should you go with expected imagery or go with the unfamiliar? This blog examines the merits on both sides and shows how a little bit of both can help your brand shine. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, design, logo Big Duck’s CEO Sarah Durham and Design Director Sandy Zimmerman discuss logos. If you are contemplating a new logo, should you go with expected imagery or go with the unfamiliar? This blog examines the merits on both sides and shows how a little bit of both can help your brand shine.

]]> Big Duck’s CEO Sarah Durham and Design Director Sandy Zimmerman discuss logos. If you are contemplating a new logo, should you go with expected imagery or go with the unfamiliar? This blog examines the merits on both sides and shows how a little bit of both can help your brand shine.

]]> Episode 63: How should your organization navigate communications during COVID-19? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/63 b5ea28ff-bad2-44e1-b2f5-dd4829f4fe03 Wed, 01 Apr 2020 12:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Here are some quick tips and resources to support nonprofits during the COVID-19 crisis. 4:59 no Sarah Durham shares some quick tips and resources to help nonprofits communicate and fundraise during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. fundraise, covid, coronavirus, covid19, communications, nonprofit fundraising, nonprofit, covid19 crisis Sarah Durham shares some quick tips and resources to help nonprofits communicate and fundraise during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

]]> Sarah Durham shares some quick tips and resources to help nonprofits communicate and fundraise during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

]]> Episode 58: Interviews, focus groups, or surveys: which should you use? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/58 416df241-bcd6-471a-bf24-6fc49114bb30 Wed, 18 Mar 2020 07:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck How does your brand resonate with your participants? Learn how you can conduct your own research using interviews, focus groups, and surveys with Sarah Durham and Laura Fisher. 24:09 no How does your brand resonate with your participants? Sarah Durham and Big Duck’s Senior Strategist Laura Fisher discuss the ins and outs of interviews, focus groups, and surveys. Learn how you can conduct your own research, make your focus groups more diverse, and how to get more accurate responses. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, interviews, focus groups, surveys, audience research How does your brand resonate with your participants? Sarah Durham and Big Duck’s Senior Strategist Laura Fisher discuss the ins and outs of interviews, focus groups, and surveys. Learn how you can conduct your own research, make your focus groups more diverse, and how to get more accurate responses.

]]> How does your brand resonate with your participants? Sarah Durham and Big Duck’s Senior Strategist Laura Fisher discuss the ins and outs of interviews, focus groups, and surveys. Learn how you can conduct your own research, make your focus groups more diverse, and how to get more accurate responses.

]]> Episode 57: What should your nonprofit’s communications really achieve? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/57 ea335a33-7ebe-4ad5-b34a-d208724004e3 Wed, 22 Jan 2020 07:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham’s new book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, explains what nonprofit communications teams can actually deliver and what they need to be successful. 6:47 no Big Duck’s latest book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine (https://amzn.to/2Tc6GOL), outlines a simple model for nonprofit communicators and leaders that makes it easier for them to leverage communications in order to advance their mission. Nonprofit CEOs and staff who manage communications can use this book to set clearer goals, guide their planning and activities, identify gaps in their expertise, and discover opportunities to strengthen their communications. In this podcast, Sarah Durham breaks it down. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, branding, teams, mission Big Duck’s latest book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, outlines a simple model for nonprofit communicators and leaders that makes it easier for them to leverage communications in order to advance their mission. Nonprofit CEOs and staff who manage communications can use this book to set clearer goals, guide their planning and activities, identify gaps in their expertise, and discover opportunities to strengthen their communications. In this podcast, Sarah Durham breaks it down.

]]> Big Duck’s latest book, The Nonprofit Communications Engine, outlines a simple model for nonprofit communicators and leaders that makes it easier for them to leverage communications in order to advance their mission. Nonprofit CEOs and staff who manage communications can use this book to set clearer goals, guide their planning and activities, identify gaps in their expertise, and discover opportunities to strengthen their communications. In this podcast, Sarah Durham breaks it down.

]]> Episode 55: Can you continuously improve your website? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/55 a92f51d3-a30c-4f08-9157-2a8d7d2a1726 Fri, 06 Dec 2019 07:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Keeping up with your website can be difficult. Keeping it client-ready can be even harder. Learn how your nonprofit can maintain good website “hygiene” with Sarah Durham and Rory Tucker. 18:40 no From broken links to automated testing, learn how to continuously improve your website’s “hygiene” with Sarah Durham and Rory Tucker. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, website, improvement, testing, updates From broken links to automated testing, learn how to continuously improve your website’s “hygiene” with Sarah Durham and Rory Tucker.

]]> From broken links to automated testing, learn how to continuously improve your website’s “hygiene” with Sarah Durham and Rory Tucker.

]]> Episode 52: How do you make sure your events and recordings sound good? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/52 2c47bce2-aaaa-4458-8da4-e29a2a9f9996 Wed, 04 Dec 2019 07:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham and Marcus dePaula discuss audio logistics and how to make your organization sound professional. 12:25 no Marcus dePaula (https://www.meonlylouder.com/), audio expert and producer of Big Duck’s podcast, gives insight into the right audio professional for your team, the best mics to use, how to present your sound, and how to make people listen in to your content. Hear how you can up your recording game. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, audio logistics, audio expert, sound, how to sound professional, podcasts, podcast Marcus dePaula, audio expert and producer of Big Duck’s podcast, gives insight into the right audio professional for your team, the best mics to use, how to present your sound, and how to make people listen in to your content. Hear how you can up your recording game.

]]> Marcus dePaula, audio expert and producer of Big Duck’s podcast, gives insight into the right audio professional for your team, the best mics to use, how to present your sound, and how to make people listen in to your content. Hear how you can up your recording game.

]]> Episode 51: Who is your Director of Second Impressions? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/51 53bcbd64-b9d0-4442-8a27-e1230075f22c Wed, 20 Nov 2019 07:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham and Farra Trompeter talk about the importance of second impressions to keep clients coming back. 13:29 no Making sure your clients and other key stakeholders are happy can be difficult. What do they really need and want from you? Tune in to understand how to be more mindful about engaging donors and clients every step of the way with Sarah Durham (https://bigduck.com/about/sarah-durham/) and Farra Trompeter (https://bigduck.com/about/farra-trompeter/). nonprofit, nonprofit communications, design, director, second impressions, donors, clients Making sure your clients and other key stakeholders are happy can be difficult. What do they really need and want from you? Tune in to understand how to be more mindful about engaging donors and clients every step of the way with Sarah Durham and Farra Trompeter.

]]> Making sure your clients and other key stakeholders are happy can be difficult. What do they really need and want from you? Tune in to understand how to be more mindful about engaging donors and clients every step of the way with Sarah Durham and Farra Trompeter.

]]> Episode 50: What skills are most important on your in-house creative team https://bigduck.fireside.fm/50 6420f6da-462c-4e7e-8521-69d299f4d7a5 Fri, 08 Nov 2019 07:00:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Sarah Durham and Claire Taylor Hansen explain how consistency, production, breadth, and the right experience can make your creative team flourish. 16:18 no What are the most important skills to have on your in-house creative team? Learn how consistency, production, breadth, and the right experience can make your creative team flourish by tuning in. nonprofit, nonprofit communications, creative team, nonprofit design, branding What are the most important skills to have on your in-house creative team? Learn how consistency, production, breadth, and the right experience can make your creative team flourish by tuning in.

]]> What are the most important skills to have on your in-house creative team? Learn how consistency, production, breadth, and the right experience can make your creative team flourish by tuning in.

]]> Episode 23: How can nonprofit communications leaders collaborate more effectively? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/23 4a08d36b-4533-4d70-8ceb-bf290f691980 Wed, 28 Nov 2018 10:45:00 -0500 Big Duck full Big Duck Elise Dowell, Vice Chancellor for Communications and External Affairs at The Jewish Theological Seminary, shares the lessons she's learned about collaboration as a nonprofit communications leader. 17:43 no Elise Dowell is Vice Chancellor for Communications and External Affairs at The Jewish Theological Seminary (http://www.jtsa.edu/elise-dowell). Since joining JTS in 2002, Elise has lead transformational communications efforts, upgraded their recruitment marketing program, and won two Emmy Awards. She sat down with us to share lessons she has learned over her illustrious career, focusing on how to collaborate more effectively and build organizational alignment around the value of communications. communications, nonprofit leadership, collaboration Elise Dowell is Vice Chancellor for Communications and External Affairs at The Jewish Theological Seminary. Since joining JTS in 2002, Elise has lead transformational communications efforts, upgraded their recruitment marketing program, and won two Emmy Awards. She sat down with us to share lessons she has learned over her illustrious career, focusing on how to collaborate more effectively and build organizational alignment around the value of communications.

]]> Elise Dowell is Vice Chancellor for Communications and External Affairs at The Jewish Theological Seminary. Since joining JTS in 2002, Elise has lead transformational communications efforts, upgraded their recruitment marketing program, and won two Emmy Awards. She sat down with us to share lessons she has learned over her illustrious career, focusing on how to collaborate more effectively and build organizational alignment around the value of communications.

]]> Episode 18: Should you fire that lousy board member? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/18 a4cb8374-2a82-4382-b656-d72db9675949 Wed, 19 Sep 2018 12:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck A shared understanding of governance is the key to a strong nonprofit board. Simone Joyaux, author of “Firing Lousy Board Members” defines what that means, why it matters, what it takes to get there. 11:41 no Simone Joyaux, author of “Firing Lousy Board Members,” (https://www.simonejoyaux.com/) and organizational management, development, and fundraising expert tackles what makes a great nonprofit board. She maps out the process of getting smarter about governance and shares the steps nonprofit boards can take right away to begin reflecting, discussing, and reaching consensus about what good governance looks like. communications, nonprofit communications, branding, strategy, youtube, youtube live, digital marketing Simone Joyaux, author of “Firing Lousy Board Members,” and organizational management, development, and fundraising expert tackles what makes a great nonprofit board. She maps out the process of getting smarter about governance and shares the steps nonprofit boards can take right away to begin reflecting, discussing, and reaching consensus about what good governance looks like.

]]> Simone Joyaux, author of “Firing Lousy Board Members,” and organizational management, development, and fundraising expert tackles what makes a great nonprofit board. She maps out the process of getting smarter about governance and shares the steps nonprofit boards can take right away to begin reflecting, discussing, and reaching consensus about what good governance looks like.

]]> Episode 17: How can you facilitate great internal communications? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/17 60107329-1328-40b2-b596-bb11a68385c2 Wed, 05 Sep 2018 15:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Communicating well internally can help your organization communicate well externally. Listen in for useful tools and practices to facilitate productive conversations inside your org. 15:06 no Liz Ricca, Big Duck’s Managing Director, shares tools and practices that can help facilitate great internal communications. She gives tips on how to use organizational values actively as an HR tool and provides a structured feedback exercise you can put into practice to spark meaningful, productive conversations between staff. Listen in. communications, nonprofit communications, branding, strategy, youtube, youtube live, digital marketing Liz Ricca, Big Duck’s Managing Director, shares tools and practices that can help facilitate great internal communications. She gives tips on how to use organizational values actively as an HR tool and provides a structured feedback exercise you can put into practice to spark meaningful, productive conversations between staff. Listen in.

]]> Liz Ricca, Big Duck’s Managing Director, shares tools and practices that can help facilitate great internal communications. She gives tips on how to use organizational values actively as an HR tool and provides a structured feedback exercise you can put into practice to spark meaningful, productive conversations between staff. Listen in.

]]> Episode 16: Should nonprofits rebrand when overhauling their websites? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/16 9b09a044-da57-47a0-8dfc-1f0ab47fe563 Wed, 22 Aug 2018 19:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Should nonprofits squeeze in a full rebrand when their website needs an update? Listen to learn more. 7:15 no Should nonprofits squeeze in a full rebrand when their website needs an update? In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck, outlines the basic order of operations for a successful rebrand process—from the strategic plan to the website overhaul. communications, nonprofit communications, branding, strategy, youtube, youtube live, digital marketing Should nonprofits squeeze in a full rebrand when their website needs an update? In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck, outlines the basic order of operations for a successful rebrand process—from the strategic plan to the website overhaul.

]]> Should nonprofits squeeze in a full rebrand when their website needs an update? In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck, outlines the basic order of operations for a successful rebrand process—from the strategic plan to the website overhaul.

]]> Episode 15: How do you articulate your community’s values? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/15 59a20281-9d4e-4e94-b6f3-b954635d32ae Wed, 08 Aug 2018 16:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Nonprofit leaders have a great opportunity to define their organization’s values by listening to clients and other key constituents in their community. Listen to learn how to shape your values collaboratively. 15:54 no Cecilia Clarke, President and CEO of the Brooklyn Community Foundation, shares her experiences listening to over 1,000 community members about their vision for Brooklyn, and how those insights helped redefine their work and organizational values. She also shares tips on how to articulate your nonprofit’s values and get to the underlying why of your work. communications, nonprofit communications, branding, strategy, youtube, youtube live, digital marketing Cecilia Clarke, President and CEO of the Brooklyn Community Foundation, shares her experiences listening to over 1,000 community members about their vision for Brooklyn, and how those insights helped redefine their work and organizational values. She also shares tips on how to articulate your nonprofit’s values and get to the underlying why of your work.

]]> Cecilia Clarke, President and CEO of the Brooklyn Community Foundation, shares her experiences listening to over 1,000 community members about their vision for Brooklyn, and how those insights helped redefine their work and organizational values. She also shares tips on how to articulate your nonprofit’s values and get to the underlying why of your work.

]]> Episode 14: Can we engage audiences with YouTube Live? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/14 83911898-d817-4762-91c5-fbcd10993a49 Wed, 01 Aug 2018 10:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Sharing information and starting conversations online are powerful ways nonprofits can engage new audiences. Listen to learn more about a burgeoning platform in the nonprofit space—YouTube live. 10:28 no Elianne Ramos, Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs at National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health and prior Latino Digital Coalitions Desk for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, shares her experiences launching and maintaining a YouTube Live platform for her organization. She discusses the benefits of YouTube Live in helping maintain consistent, digestible, and shareable communications that tie together all threads of her organization’s work, what it takes for nonprofits to start their own, and more. communications, nonprofit communications, branding, strategy, youtube, youtube live, digital marketing Elianne Ramos, Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs at National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health and prior Latino Digital Coalitions Desk for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, shares her experiences launching and maintaining a YouTube Live platform for her organization. She discusses the benefits of YouTube Live in helping maintain consistent, digestible, and shareable communications that tie together all threads of her organization’s work, what it takes for nonprofits to start their own, and more.

]]> Elianne Ramos, Senior Director of Communications and Public Affairs at National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health and prior Latino Digital Coalitions Desk for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, shares her experiences launching and maintaining a YouTube Live platform for her organization. She discusses the benefits of YouTube Live in helping maintain consistent, digestible, and shareable communications that tie together all threads of her organization’s work, what it takes for nonprofits to start their own, and more.

]]> Episode 13: Should we digitize our brand guide? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/13 00ff5b3c-a032-41d0-bf90-2560a19aedf8 Tue, 24 Jul 2018 16:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Brand guides contain everything you need to write and design on behalf of your nonprofit, and many organizations are beginning to digitize them. Listen to learn more about the pros of digital brand guides. 7:18 no In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast Claire Taylor Hansen, one of Big Duck’s Art Directors, shares digital brand guide trends and best practices in the nonprofit and for-profit worlds and offers suggestions for keeping your brand guide alive. In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast Claire Taylor Hansen, one of Big Duck’s Art Directors, shares digital brand guide trends and best practices in the nonprofit and for-profit worlds and offers suggestions for keeping your brand guide alive.

]]> In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast Claire Taylor Hansen, one of Big Duck’s Art Directors, shares digital brand guide trends and best practices in the nonprofit and for-profit worlds and offers suggestions for keeping your brand guide alive.

]]> Episode 12: What makes a great nonprofit tagline? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/12 98f6dad2-ce16-4ca1-a778-9a84b82a2fda Wed, 11 Jul 2018 01:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck A tagline can’t communicate everything, but it can fill in gaps left by the name and logo and help express your brand. Tune in for new ways of thinking about your organization’s tagline. 14:04 no Dan Gunderman, Big Duck’s Creative Director, tells all about taglines. Dan defines what taglines are, the function they serve in a nonprofit’s brand, and shares tips for crafting a tagline that is simple, meaningful, and truly unique to your organization. Dan Gunderman, Big Duck’s Creative Director, tells all about taglines. Dan defines what taglines are, the function they serve in a nonprofit’s brand, and shares tips for crafting a tagline that is simple, meaningful, and truly unique to your organization.

]]> Dan Gunderman, Big Duck’s Creative Director, tells all about taglines. Dan defines what taglines are, the function they serve in a nonprofit’s brand, and shares tips for crafting a tagline that is simple, meaningful, and truly unique to your organization.

]]> Episode 10: What words should you avoid? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/10 1533a842-0981-44c5-887c-d95da29f87d9 Wed, 27 Jun 2018 08:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Lila Tublin, one of Big Duck’s copywriters, uncovers words, phrases, jargon, and pronouns(!) nonprofit communicators should think carefully about before using, gleaned from our popular “Words to Avoid” annual blog, plus shares tips to ensure your writing is clear and easy to understand no matter what. Click play to tune in. 10:24 no Word choices are important! Tune in to learn what words and phrases nonprofit communicators should avoid, gleaned from our popular “Words to Avoid” annual blog, plus tips for making more thoughtful language choices. Word choices are important! Tune in to learn what words and phrases nonprofit communicators should avoid, gleaned from our popular “Words to Avoid” annual blog, plus tips for making more thoughtful language choices.

]]> Word choices are important! Tune in to learn what words and phrases nonprofit communicators should avoid, gleaned from our popular “Words to Avoid” annual blog, plus tips for making more thoughtful language choices.

]]> Episode 9: Why is it so hard to raise awareness? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/9 afcec32b-e25b-4217-abc2-a4c341293d1c Wed, 13 Jun 2018 08:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck To successfully increase their organization’s visibility through campaigns, nonprofit leaders need to ensure they’re grounded in strategy—with concrete goals, audiences, and actions in mind. 8:40 no To successfully increase their organization’s visibility through campaigns, nonprofit leaders need to ensure they’re grounded in strategy—with concrete goals, audiences, and actions in mind. To successfully increase their organization’s visibility through campaigns, nonprofit leaders need to ensure they’re grounded in strategy—with concrete goals, audiences, and actions in mind.

]]> To successfully increase their organization’s visibility through campaigns, nonprofit leaders need to ensure they’re grounded in strategy—with concrete goals, audiences, and actions in mind.

]]> Episode 8: How are organizational values and personality different? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/8 6bcc8bf2-7403-41ce-bb59-f10d3bde7c9d Wed, 30 May 2018 08:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Organizational values and brand personality are related but very different, and often get confused. We’ll define and differentiate them in this podcast. 12:07 no Organizational values and brand personality are related but very different, and often get confused. We’ll define and differentiate them in this podcast. Organizational values and brand personality are related but very different, and often get confused. We’ll define and differentiate them in this podcast.

]]> Organizational values and brand personality are related but very different, and often get confused. We’ll define and differentiate them in this podcast.

]]> Episode 7: Are events and galas still effective? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/7 9d0b5f01-ad0c-41bb-ac56-844f4a669aaf Wed, 16 May 2018 11:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck 12:25 no Special events and annual galas may no longer be a nonprofit’s best bet for fundraising. Why? The world is changing rapidly—and so are audiences’ expectations. Tune in to learn more. Special events and annual galas may no longer be a nonprofit’s best bet for fundraising. Why? The world is changing rapidly—and so are audiences’ expectations. Tune in to learn more.

]]> Special events and annual galas may no longer be a nonprofit’s best bet for fundraising. Why? The world is changing rapidly—and so are audiences’ expectations. Tune in to learn more.

]]> Episode 5: How can nonprofits use photography well? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/5 d47f9aa7-0090-4cbe-8d57-6bcd6c63561b Wed, 25 Apr 2018 13:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission. 8:19 no Photography is an excellent way for organizations to show rather than tell. Tune in for tips and insights on how to invest in great photography on a budget. Photography is an excellent way for organizations to show rather than tell. Tune in for tips and insights on how to invest in great photography on a budget.

]]> Photography is an excellent way for organizations to show rather than tell. Tune in for tips and insights on how to invest in great photography on a budget.

]]> Episode 4: How do we communicate without communications staff? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/4 b4cb165d-5aa3-4205-b593-14322661f809 Wed, 11 Apr 2018 12:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Having a dedicated communications team is out of reach for many nonprofits, but the need to communicate effectively to external audiences is still there. This episode of the Smart Communications Podcast features a conversation with Wayne Ho, President and CEO of CPC, a large social services organization located in NYC. Out of CPC’s 4,000 employees, none have “communications” in their job title. Listen in to find out how Wayne encourages all staff to be effective brand ambassadors. 12:18 no Having a dedicated communications team is out of reach for many nonprofits, but the need to communicate effectively to external audiences is still there. This episode of the Smart Communications Podcast features a conversation with Wayne Ho, President and CEO of CPC, a large social services organization located in NYC. Out of CPC’s 4,000 employees, none have “communications” in their job title. Listen in to find out how Wayne encourages all staff to be effective brand ambassadors. Having a dedicated communications team is out of reach for many nonprofits, but the need to communicate effectively to external audiences is still there. This episode of the Smart Communications Podcast features a conversation with Wayne Ho, President and CEO of CPC, a large social services organization located in NYC. Out of CPC’s 4,000 employees, none have “communications” in their job title. Listen in to find out how Wayne encourages all staff to be effective brand ambassadors.

]]> Having a dedicated communications team is out of reach for many nonprofits, but the need to communicate effectively to external audiences is still there. This episode of the Smart Communications Podcast features a conversation with Wayne Ho, President and CEO of CPC, a large social services organization located in NYC. Out of CPC’s 4,000 employees, none have “communications” in their job title. Listen in to find out how Wayne encourages all staff to be effective brand ambassadors.

]]> Episode 3: What's the board's role in branding? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/3 5e7959ea-f915-4b9a-8638-dd7d1ae54349 Mon, 02 Apr 2018 14:00:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Figuring out the right people to have in the rebranding process at the right time is a real struggle. In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Big Duck’s VP, Farra Trompeter, and Big Duck’s CEO, Sarah Durham, share their experiences leading nonprofit rebrands and serving as nonprofit board members, plus provide expert recommendations for defining the board’s role in branding. 11:31 no Figuring out the right people to have in the rebranding process at the right time is a real struggle. In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Big Duck’s VP, Farra Trompeter, and Big Duck’s CEO, Sarah Durham, share their experiences leading nonprofit rebrands and serving as nonprofit board members, plus provide expert recommendations for defining the board’s role in branding. Figuring out the right people to have in the rebranding process at the right time is a real struggle. In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Big Duck’s VP, Farra Trompeter, and Big Duck’s CEO, Sarah Durham, share their experiences leading nonprofit rebrands and serving as nonprofit board members, plus provide expert recommendations for defining the board’s role in branding.

]]> Figuring out the right people to have in the rebranding process at the right time is a real struggle. In this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Big Duck’s VP, Farra Trompeter, and Big Duck’s CEO, Sarah Durham, share their experiences leading nonprofit rebrands and serving as nonprofit board members, plus provide expert recommendations for defining the board’s role in branding.

]]> Episode 2: When is it okay to use jargon? https://bigduck.fireside.fm/2 75f33463-9585-4f39-9117-30bcdf328520 Mon, 02 Apr 2018 13:45:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck Generally, we recommend avoiding jargon. But in this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Dan Gunderman, Big Duck’s Creative Director, sits down with Sarah Durham, Big Duck’s CEO, to discuss when nonprofits communicators should embrace industry-specific language. 6:46 no Generally, we recommend avoiding jargon. But in this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Dan Gunderman, Big Duck’s Creative Director, sits down with Sarah Durham, Big Duck’s CEO, to discuss when nonprofits communicators should embrace industry-specific language. Generally, we recommend avoiding jargon. But in this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Dan Gunderman, Big Duck’s Creative Director, sits down with Sarah Durham, Big Duck’s CEO, to discuss when nonprofits communicators should embrace industry-specific language.

]]> Generally, we recommend avoiding jargon. But in this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, Dan Gunderman, Big Duck’s Creative Director, sits down with Sarah Durham, Big Duck’s CEO, to discuss when nonprofits communicators should embrace industry-specific language.

]]> Episode 1: Welcome to the Smart Communications Podcast! https://bigduck.fireside.fm/1 02988738-0967-488e-a1be-111415fccd71 Mon, 02 Apr 2018 13:30:00 -0400 Big Duck full Big Duck The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission. 1:51 no The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission. The Smart Communications Podcast is hosted by Sarah Durham (https://bigducknyc.com/about/sarah-durham), CEO of Big Duck (https://bigducknyc.com/) and produced by Marcus DePaula. Our music is by Broke for Free (https://open.spotify.com/artist/5gCVozH1XRcgWBHJxsuCDY). The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission.

The Smart Communications Podcast is hosted by Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck and produced by Marcus DePaula. Our music is by Broke for Free.

]]> The Smart Communications Podcast helps busy nonprofit leaders build their communications skills and develop their organization’s voice. Every episode shares insights and practical tips to help you leverage strategic communications to advance your nonprofit’s mission.

The Smart Communications Podcast is hosted by Sarah Durham, CEO of Big Duck and produced by Marcus DePaula. Our music is by Broke for Free.

]]>