10 Best Nonprofit Podcasts You Should Listen

Podcasts have become a go-to source of entertainment, learning, and inspiration for people worldwide. They offer a unique way to explore topics, hear different perspectives, and stay informed.

With the rise of podcasts, it's no surprise that they've become increasingly popular. In fact, by 2024, the number of monthly podcast listeners is expected to soar to 164 million. 

Building on this podcast's popularity, our blog aims to introduce you to the top nonprofit podcasts. These podcasts are known for their ability to inspire, educate, and engage listeners with stories and insights from the nonprofit world. 

If you're involved in this field, looking to make a difference, or just in search of impactful nonprofit content, these podcasts deserve your attention.

Why Listen to Nonprofit Podcasts?

The following benefits show why nonprofit podcasts are a valuable resource for both personal and professional development. 

Educational Opportunities

Nonprofit podcasts often provide valuable insights into various topics like social issues, nonprofit management, and more. 

They can serve as a great learning tool, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of subjects that matter to the nonprofit sector​.

Convenience

One of the biggest perks of podcasts is their convenience. 

You can listen to them while doing other activities such as commuting, exercising, or even while relaxing at home. With nonprofit podcasts, staying informed or entertained is easy without taking time from your busy schedule.

Increases Empathy and Understanding

Listening to stories and discussions about real-world issues can increase your empathy and deepen your understanding of different perspectives, particularly in the context of nonprofit work.

Inspiration and Motivation

Many nonprofit podcasts share success stories and interviews with influential figures in the field, which can be highly motivating and inspiring.

These stories can provide practical advice and show real-life applications of theories and strategies in the nonprofit world.

What Are The Top 10 Nonprofit Podcasts You Should Listen To?

Here are the top 10 nonprofit podcasts you should definitely listen to. 

1. Nonprofits Are Messy

First on the list is Nonprofits Are Messy. It is hosted by Joan Garry, often referred to as the "Dear Abby" of the nonprofit world. 

This podcast is one of the best because it explores nonprofit management's challenges and complex circumstances. With her extensive experience and engaging conversational style, Joan Garry brings together a range of expert guests to discuss critical issues affecting nonprofit organizations​.

The podcast covers various topics crucial to nonprofit leaders, including fundraising, board development, leadership challenges, and effective communication strategies. 

The content is designed to provide practical advice and insights that can help nonprofit professionals deal with the complexities of their work and improve their organizations' impact​

2. We Are For Good

We Are For Good is a podcast that shines a light on the world of nonprofits by bringing innovative ideas and inspirational stories from some of the most dynamic thought leaders in the nonprofit and social impact sectors. 

The podcast is co-hosted by Jonathan McCoy and Becky Endicott, both seasoned nonprofit professionals who share a passion for philanthropy and community building. 

What makes this podcast unique is its focus on practical advice, inspiring stories, and the hosts' commitment to creating a community of like-minded individuals trying to make a positive impact​.

The podcast features a wide range of topics relevant to the nonprofit world, including fundraising, marketing, leadership, mental health, and community building. 

The hosts also engage in discussions about ethical storytelling, digital strategy, and the overall challenges of managing and growing a nonprofit organization in today's world​.

3. Confessions with Jess & Cindy

Confessions with Jess & Cindy offers a candid look into the world of nonprofit consulting and coaching. 

Hosted by Jess Campbell and Cindy Wagman, both experienced nonprofit professionals, this podcast talks about running a nonprofit consulting and coaching business. It breaks down the barriers and shares the untold stories and strategies of business leaders who serve nonprofits. 

The podcast features a variety of episodes where Jess and Cindy explore critical and sometimes under-discussed topics relevant to nonprofit consultants and coaches. 

It includes episodes on building anticapitalist consultancies, balancing mental health with professional demands, and in-depth interviews with other experts in the sector. 

They tackle subjects like ethical business practices, the financial realities of consulting, and strategies for effective client relationships. 

4. What The Fundraising

What the Fundraising is hosted by Mallory Erickson. It is known for its insightful approach to tackling fundraising challenges within the nonprofit sector. 

The podcast focuses on the psychology and strategy behind successful fundraising, blending behavioral science insights with practical fundraising techniques. 

Mallory's engaging style and ability to break down complex topics into relatable content make this podcast a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their fundraising efforts and understand the underlying dynamics influencing donor behavior.

The podcast covers a wide range of topics that are critical to nonprofit fundraising, such as donor engagement, the psychology of motivation, and building effective fundraising strategies.

Episodes often feature discussions with experts and leaders in the field, offering listeners a mix of theoretical knowledge and actionable advice. 

5. The Build Good Fundraising Podcast

The Build Good Fundraising Podcast is an important resource for nonprofit leaders looking to increase their fundraising efforts. 

It focuses on providing practical and actionable tips that nonprofit professionals can use to increase their revenue and impact. You can get valuable knowledge about fundraising from experienced practitioners and experts in the field.

Listeners of The Build Good Fundraising Podcast can expect a wide range of topics covering the key parts of fundraising, such as donor acquisition strategies, the effectiveness of different fundraising methods like direct mail and digital marketing, and long-term engagement techniques. 

The podcast episodes discuss specific strategies like using Meta ads for donor acquisition and setting realistic growth goals. 

6. Tony Martignetti Nonprofit Radio

Tony Martignetti Nonprofit Radio is highly regarded for its comprehensive coverage of nonprofit topics, making it a perfect choice for nonprofit professionals. 

Tony's extensive experience and his ability to engage with experts across various nonprofit sectors make this nonprofit podcast both educational and engaging.

Listeners can expect content that addresses nonprofit management. The podcast features interviews with leaders in the nonprofit world discussing current trends, professional advice, and effective strategies. 

From learning about board relations to volunteer management, social media strategies, and legal compliance, Tony Martignetti Nonprofit Radio offers valuable insights.

7. Nonprofit Nation

Nonprofit Nation is about the field of nonprofit development and management. Hosted by Julia Campbell, a renowned expert in digital marketing and fundraising, this podcast offers a unique blend of inspiration and practical advice. 

What makes Nonprofit Nation particularly distinctive is its focus on how nonprofits can use storytelling and social media to increase their impact.

The content includes effective social media strategies, community building, digital marketing, and the art of storytelling. Each episode features conversations with industry leaders who share insights and practical tips. 

The podcast not only covers traditional topics like fundraising and marketing but also explores important areas like mental health in the nonprofit workplace, digital wellness, and leadership strategies​.

8. The Nonprofit Leadership Podcast

The Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, hosted by Dr. Rob Harter, is dedicated to tackling the biggest issues, trends, and opportunities within the nonprofit sector. 

This podcast is one of the top 10 because it focuses on delivering real stories from experienced leaders who share their strategies and practices for success. 

The podcast aims to inspire and educate by connecting listeners with thought leaders who provide practical advice and firsthand experiences that address both the challenges and innovations in nonprofit leadership.

Listeners will find topics about nonprofit management and leadership. The podcast explores themes like how nonprofits can better engage their teams, the collaboration between different types of nonprofits, and effective strategies for grant writing and leveraging data for impact. 

9. First Day Podcast

The First Day Podcast, originating from Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, is specifically designed for nonprofit professionals. 

This podcast is known for its concise format, offering quick, impactful episodes that last around 10 minutes each. 

Hosted by Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., the podcast delivers the latest news and research in fundraising and philanthropy, making it an ideal resource for busy professionals looking to stay informed without investing a lot of time.

The content of the First Day Podcast focuses on providing listeners with up-to-date information and practical tips that can be immediately applied to their fundraising efforts. Topics often include innovative strategies for donor engagement and retention, insights into philanthropic trends, and discussions on how nonprofits can effectively raise funds and awareness for their causes. 

Each episode equips fundraisers with knowledge and tools that support their ongoing professional development.

10. Oracle League Podcast

The Oracle League Podcast is a good choice for those interested in the world of philanthropy. Produced by The Eight Principles, the podcast draws its name from the ancient Oracle of Delphi, symbolizing wisdom in philanthropy. 

This podcast doesn't just talk about general fundraising. It shares the stories of changemakers who have made significant contributions to the field. By focusing on such high-impact individuals, the Oracle League Podcast offers both inspiration and practical advice.

This monthly podcast is hosted by Larry Johnson, who interviews prominent figures in the nonprofit sector. Episodes are built around real-world stories and innovative ideas that aim to improve the philanthropic landscape.

The discussions often cover a range of essential topics, from annual giving to the future of fundraising technologies.