In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, Matt digs into one of the biggest barriers to nonprofit effectiveness: clutter. Not the kind in your hall closet, but the kind that shows up in your donor messaging, your schedule, your internal processes, and even your website. Pulling inspiration from Greg McKeown’s book Essentialism, Matt explores the transformative question:
“If I didn’t already have this, would I invest in it?”
and shows nonprofit leaders how applying that single question can create more clarity, impact, and freedom in the work they do.
This conversation will challenge you to rethink what you’re holding onto, and what you need to let go. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched too thin, or unsure how to communicate your mission clearly, this episode will help you simplify and refocus on what truly matters.
What You’ll Learn
Key Takeaways
Mentioned in This Episode
If You’re New Here
This podcast helps startup, small, and growing nonprofits build strong foundations across six key areas: leadership, fundraising, marketing, programs, operations, and finances. Each episode gives you practical tools and frameworks to help you launch confidently and grow strategically.
Connect with Matt
Website: nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Email: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
LinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
In this second part of his conversation with veteran nonprofit leader Tom Atema, host Matt Stockman dives deeper into the heart of leadership and fundraising. With over 50 years of experience leading organizations like Heart for Lebanon, John Maxwell’s Equip, and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Tom shares timeless wisdom for nonprofit founders and fundraisers on how to build meaningful relationships, steward donors well, and lead from a place of value—not pressure.
If you’ve ever struggled with donor burnout, awkward asks, or the tension between mission and money, this episode is for you.
💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn:
🧭 Key Quotes
“You tell me how many people’s cell phone numbers you have in your phone, and I’ll tell you how good you are with relationships.” — Tom Atema"Don’t chase money. Add value to people, and let God handle the outcomes.” — Tom Atema
“Leadership is a bigger deal than you think. Everything rises and falls on it.” — Tom Atema
🔗 Resources Mentioned
👉 Get it at NonprofitLaunchPlan.com
or email Matt at matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
🙌 About the Guest: Tom Atema
Tom Atema is the co-founder and Chairman of Heart for Lebanon, a faith-based organization providing education, humanitarian relief, and the Gospel to Syrian refugees in Lebanon. He’s served in senior leadership roles at John Maxwell’s Equip, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Word of Life Fellowship. Tom brings five decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, development, and strategic partnerships—always centered around people, not transactions.
🧩 Episode Takeaways
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Be sure to subscribe to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes, and please leave a review to help other nonprofit leaders discover the show.
➡️ Share this episode with another nonprofit founder or development officer who needs encouragement to lead with purpose, not pressure.
In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, host Matt Stockman sits down with veteran nonprofit leader Tom Atema, co-founder of Heart for Lebanon and former VP with John Maxwell’s Equip. With more than 50 years of experience in ministry and development work, Tom shares timeless, faith-driven wisdom on what it really means to build meaningful relationships with your donors—what he calls investors.
You’ll discover how to approach every gift, no matter the size, as the start of a relationship… not a transaction. Tom unpacks practical habits that turn small gifts into long-term partnerships and shares powerful stories that will challenge how you think about stewardship, gratitude, and generosity.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
Memorable Quote
“Some of those $25 gifts are test gifts. They’re not about the money—they’re asking, ‘Do you see me? Do you care?’” — Tom AtemaFree Resource Mentioned
📘 From Dream to Action: Your Nonprofit Pre-Launch Checklist - 10 essential steps to move from nonprofit IDEA to IMPACT.
👉 Download free at nonprofitlaunchplan.com
or email matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Fearless Fundraising Mini Course - Get it here 👉 Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
Next Episode Teaser
Don’t miss Part 2 of this conversation with Tom Atema next week!
We’ll dig into scaling your donor relationships, transferring trust to new team members, running quarterly “investor calls,” and how to stop chasing money—and start adding value to people.
Connect with Matt
📧 matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
🔗 Follow on LinkedIn
If you’ve ever felt like every week starts from zero — or like every day is more reactive than proactive — this episode is for you. Matt Stockman breaks down how to escape the constant cycle of overwhelm by creating what he calls your Nonprofit Operations Flywheel: a simple set of systems that give your organization rhythm, predictability, and peace of mind.
In this practical, step-by-step episode, Matt walks you through five systems (or “gears”) that keep your nonprofit running smoothly — even when you’re short on time, staff, or energy:
Matt also shares a powerful story of a small nonprofit that went from chaos to clarity in just six months by implementing these systems — proving that lasting change comes from consistent structure, not more effort.
🧭 Key Takeaways
📈 Free Resources Mentioned
Both are available at nonprofitlaunchplan.com
.
🎧 Listen If You’re Asking…
🔗 Call to Action
Ready to design your own operations flywheel?
Book a free 30-minute discovery call with Matt at nonprofitlaunchplan.com
to get personal guidance on building systems that bring clarity and calm to your nonprofit.
Complexity quietly chokes far too many nonprofits—large and small. Spreadsheets multiply, meetings take over calendars, and software stacks pile up in the name of “getting organized.” But the truth is, the best-run nonprofits are not the ones that are more complicated—they’re the ones that are simpler.
In this episode, Matt Stockman breaks down how unnecessary complexity creeps into nonprofit operations, planning, and technology—and how to fight back with clarity and focus. Whether you’re still in the dreaming phase or already running programs, you’ll learn practical steps to strip away the clutter and lead with simplicity.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
Practical Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Matt:
🌐 www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com
📧 matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Quote of the Episode:
“Simplicity isn’t laziness—it’s excellent leadership.”Leadership expert Max Dupree once said, “We cannot become what we want by remaining where we are.” In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman unpacks one of the biggest leadership hurdles nonprofit leaders face — decision paralysis.
Whether it’s keeping a struggling team member too long, clinging to a tired fundraising event, or avoiding an uncomfortable board conversation, decision paralysis can quietly stall your mission’s growth. Matt shares the real reasons leaders get stuck and walks you through a simple, 3-step framework to start making confident, courageous decisions that move your organization forward.
You’ll Learn:
Resources Mentioned:
One of the biggest mistakes startup and small nonprofits make is trying to serve too many people with too broad of a mission. The result? Your message gets fuzzy, donors aren’t sure exactly who they’re helping, and your programs end up stretched thin.
The truth is this: clarity creates impact. Donors don’t give to “programs” or “initiatives”—they give to change a life. They want to see a face, know a name, and understand exactly what difference their gift is making. That all starts with one essential step: identifying your beneficiary.
In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, Matt Stockman walks you through a practical process to get crystal clear on exactly who your nonprofit exists to serve. With the help of three powerful questions and a simple framework, you’ll learn how to create a “target beneficiary profile” that will help you focus your compassion, sharpen your messaging, and design programs that meet real needs.
Matt also shares why narrowing your focus doesn’t limit your reach—it strengthens your effectiveness. You’ll hear examples of how this kind of clarity transforms donor communication and see how it leads to stronger fundraising, better resource allocation, and more meaningful impact.
Whether you’re dreaming of starting a nonprofit or leading one that’s already running, this episode will give you the tools to clarify your mission, communicate with confidence, and inspire donors to join your cause.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:
Take Action Challenge:
This week, take the time to create your nonprofit’s target beneficiary profile. Write it down. Give them a name. Describe their needs, their challenges, and what success would look like in their life. Share it with your team and let it guide how you design programs, write emails, and ask donors to give.
When you know exactly who you’re helping, you don’t just build a nonprofit—you build trust, connection, and lasting impact.
Making an emotional connection with your donors is key to fundraising success. But what happens when that emotional momentum hits a digital wall?
So often, the moment a donor is ready to make a gift, the experience on your website feels different, broken, or disconnected—and that can cost you a donation and, more importantly, the trust you’ve worked so hard to build.
In this episode, host Matt Stockman dives into the crucial user experience through the whole donor journey—from clicking a button to completing the gift. He's joined by Cari Kates, Director of Digital Content at Pillar Media, to walk us through how to make sure each step of the digital giving process is as powerful as your initial ask.
This discussion falls under the Fundraising (Development) core area of a strong nonprofit.
Key Takeaways & Topics Covered
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
Free Resources to Launch and Fuel Your Nonprofit:
Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
Fundraising is the lifeblood of your nonprofit—but it doesn’t have to leave you and your team exhausted. In this episode, host Matt Stockman shares five common fundraising practices that drain small nonprofit leaders of their limited energy and capacity. More importantly, he offers practical alternatives that build sustainability, trust, and stronger donor relationships.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
If you’ve been feeling stretched thin or stuck in fundraising that doesn’t move the needle, this episode will help you refocus your energy on what truly works.
Subscribe & Share:
Don’t miss future episodes of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits! Subscribe now, and if you found this episode helpful, share it with another nonprofit leader who could use these tools.
www.nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
LinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
How do you build lasting trust with donors when your nonprofit is small and your budget is limited? In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, Matt takes a deep dive into one of the most recognized nonprofits in the world—Charity: Water—and uncovers what every small or startup nonprofit can learn from their approach.
You’ll discover:
Matt also shares free resources to help you strengthen your fundraising and nonprofit launch plan:
🎧 Listen in to learn how you can wow donors, build trust, and grow your nonprofit—even without a massive budget or tech team.
👉 Resources mentioned in this episode:
Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman addresses a common fear among nonprofit leaders: annoying their donors. He explains that most donors actually stop giving because they don't hear from the organization, not because they lose interest. Matt breaks down why donor communication isn't a transactional obligation, but a way to build a relationship based on trust and consistency. He shares a powerful story of a nonprofit leader who only communicated during a campaign and was essentially "ghosting" their donors. He argues that a donor's financial gift is an intimate act, a desire for a relationship with your organization.
Matt provides a practical framework to build a systematic and sincere communication rhythm that will help you grow a donor base that is loyal and engaged for the long term.
In this episode, you will learn:
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan
Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
Are you a new or small nonprofit leader who gets a knot in your stomach at the mention of "finances"? You're not alone. Most of us get into this work to make an impact, not to stare at spreadsheets. But ignoring the numbers can put your mission at risk.
In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, host Matt Stockman demystifies financial management and gives you a simple, non-intimidating guide to building a strong financial foundation. We'll move you past the messy shoebox of receipts and show you how to gain confidence, build accountability with your donors, and make smarter decisions for your organization. You don't need to be an accountant to be a great financial leader - you just need a clear plan.
Episode Highlights & Key Takeaways:
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman shares four essential principles for leading your team through difficult seasons. Every nonprofit faces storms—whether it's staff turnover, a shift in funding, or external political changes. How a leader responds during these times can define the future of the organization.
Matt shares a story about a client who took over a small nonprofit after the founder's passing, only to find it in disarray. The new leader made difficult but necessary changes, leading to a period of uncertainty and fear among the team. He emphasizes that as a leader, you are the "thermostat" for your organization, and your team looks to you not just for direction, but for a sense of calm and reassurance.
When your nonprofit is going through a tough season, your team is likely struggling with subconscious fears about job security and the organization's future. As a leader, you have a responsibility to guide them through this, and these four principles can help you do it effectively.
The 4 Guiding Principles for Leading Through a Storm
Matt concludes by reinforcing that these principles will not only help you navigate tough seasons but also build a stronger, more resilient organization and a more cohesive team for the future.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan
Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
In this episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small and Growing Nonprofits", host Matt Stockman dives into the critical topic of self-leadership for nonprofit professionals. Drawing from recent coaching conversations, Matt explores four common mistakes that startup, small, and growing nonprofit leaders make. These aren't intentional errors but rather pitfalls that can lead to burnout, team frustration, and stalled organizational growth.
Learn how to identify and overcome these self-leadership challenges with practical, actionable strategies. Whether you're just starting a nonprofit or leading an established small organization, this episode provides essential guidance on how to lead yourself effectively so you can lead your team to success.
Listen to this episode to learn:
Matt's key takeaways from the episode:
Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan
Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
Demystifying Tech & AI for Nonprofits with David Watters
In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, host Matt Stockman dives into a topic that can feel overwhelming for new and small nonprofits: technology, automation, and AI. Matt's guest is David Watters, CEO of Simple and Engaging, a company dedicated to helping nonprofits use technology smarter to improve their impact.
David shares invaluable insights for organizations just starting out or still relatively small, emphasizing that technology should always be purposeful and focused on solving clear, actual problems, rather than simply chasing the latest shiny new thing.
Episode Highlights:
Don't miss this jam-packed conversation that will empower you to use smart, budget-conscious technology solutions to achieve greater efficiency and more reach in your nonprofit!
Resources Mentioned:
Sites that David mentions in the podcast:
Special Offer from Matt Stockman:
Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan
Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Find Matt on LinkedIn: Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course:Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
Welcome to a special episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits" where Matt Stockman, your host, shares a deeply personal and inspiring vision for the future! We often talk about the 6 key areas of nonprofit success (Leadership, Development/Fundraising, Marketing, Programs & Services, Operations, and Finances). This week, we're diving into something foundational: vision.
Building on a previous episode about crafting powerful vision statements, Matt reveals the audacious, deeply personal vision for his own endeavor, the Nonprofit Launch Plan coaching business, and this very podcast. His new vision is designed to be:
Introducing the 100 Million Impact Initiative! Matt's bold vision is to empower 10,000 nonprofits worldwide, each committing to impacting at least 10,000 people, so that together, we improve the lives of 100,000,000 people globally. This is the 100 Million Impact Initiative.
Are you in? If you're a startup, small, or growing nonprofit driven by the desire to change lives, Matt invites you to join this incredible initiative. It's free to join – simply email him at matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com with "I'm In" in the subject or body of your email, and become part of a growing community of Impact Makers and World Changers!
Also in this episode: Matt shares details about his signature offer, the Nonprofit Launch Plan coaching. This intensive program includes three 90-minute virtual meetings to deep-dive into your nonprofit's performance across the 6 key areas, resulting in a customized, detailed Launch Plan to help you get off the ground or reach the next level. Podcast listeners receive a special discount!
Next Episode Preview: Don't miss next week's episode where Matt will explore how AI and technology can be leveraged by small nonprofits with limited time and budget, featuring David Watters of Simple and Engaging!
Book A Free Call with Matt: Contact | Nonprofit Launch Plan
Email Matt: matt@nonprofitlaunchplan.com
Find Matt on LinkedIn: (1) Matt Stockman | LinkedIn
Get My Free Fearless Fundraising Mini Course: Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits
In this episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," host Matt Stockman dives into two crucial, interconnected topics for your nonprofit's financial health: the incredible benefits of monthly giving programs and critical pitfalls to avoid with high-capacity donors. Discover how consistent support can provide peace of mind and predictability, and learn a simple formula to determine your ideal monthly ask. Plus, hear real-world case studies about the dangers of over-reliance on a few large donors and strategies to build a broad, diverse funding base for lasting impact.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Us:
Welcome to the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits! In this episode, host Matt Stockman sits down with special guest Bob Lonac, a seasoned expert in nonprofit leadership with a remarkable career, including roles at Young Life, International Justice Mission, and CRISTA. Bob is also the author of "Live Large: Seven Lasting Lessons for Navigating Life's Twists and Turns" and a sought-after consultant specializing in the crucial relationship between a nonprofit CEO (or Executive Director) and their Board of Directors.
This episode is a must-listen for startup nonprofits, small nonprofits, and anyone new to a leadership role, offering practical insights to establish a strong foundation.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Key Takeaways for Nonprofit Leaders:
Resources Mentioned:
Connect with Nonprofit Launch Plan:
Unlock the power of storytelling to transform your nonprofit's marketing! In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host and nonprofit growth coach Matt Stockman dives deep into "From Impact to Influence: Telling Your Nonprofit's Stories Well". Discover why compelling stories create emotional connections, simplify complex ideas, and inspire action – from donations to volunteerism. Learn the crucial difference between a "story" and a mere "endorsement," and get practical examples of nonprofits effectively using narratives to drive their mission.
Matt breaks down the "Key Elements of a Compelling Impact Story," providing you with a clear framework: Character, Challenge, Solution, Outcome, and Call to Action. Get essential tips on focusing on individuals, using vivid details, ensuring authenticity, and building a valuable story archive.
Don't miss this episode if you're a startup, small, or growing nonprofit looking to boost engagement, secure more funding, and truly showcase your incredible impact.
In This Episode, You'll Learn:
Connect with Us:
Hashtags:
#Nonprofit #NonprofitMarketing #Storytelling #NonprofitImpact #Fundraising #NonprofitGrowth #SocialGood #MissionDriven #StartupNonprofit #SmallNonprofit #NonprofitSuccess #MarketingStrategy #NonprofitTips #Philanthropy #CommunityImpact #MarketingForNonprofits #NonprofitLaunchPlan #PodcastForNonprofits #Charity #SocialChange
Keywords:
nonprofit storytelling, nonprofit marketing, amplify mission, impact stories, nonprofit growth, startup nonprofit, small nonprofit, nonprofit fundraising, volunteer engagement, nonprofit strategy, social impact, donor relations, marketing channels, compelling stories, nonprofit launch plan, effective communication, charity marketing, social good campaigns, mission statement, authentic storytelling.
Are you building a nonprofit with lasting impact? Welcome back to "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits!" In this essential Part 2 episode, host Matt Stockman dives deep into the crucial, yet often misunderstood, nonprofit vision statement.
Many people confuse mission and vision, but they serve distinct purposes for nonprofit leadership and strategic direction. While your mission statement defines "why your nonprofit exists," your vision statement paints a powerful picture of "where your organization is going" and "what long-term success looks like." Think of it as your organization's north star, guiding every decision from program development to fundraising strategies.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Special Free Resource for Nonprofit Fundraising!
Are you struggling with nonprofit fundraising? It's the #1 challenge for many new nonprofits, but it's also where you should focus 80% of your initial energy. Matt has a free mini-course just for you! Learn the 5 core steps of the Fearless Fundraising Framework with a PDF workbook and 5 short videos. This course will help you clarify your messaging and grow your confidence to ask for financial support, leading to more partners and greater results for your nonprofit's mission.
Get your FREE Fearless Fundraising mini-course at Nonprofit Launch Plan | Consulting & Fundraising for Nonprofits!
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Keywords: nonprofit vision statement, mission statement, nonprofit leadership, strategic planning, fundraising, nonprofit organization, startup nonprofit, growing nonprofit, charitable organizations, social impact, nonprofit development, organizational development, nonprofit resources, Fearless Fundraising Framework, nonprofit guidance, community impact, board development, program development.