Stuff We've Messed Up (and Learned From)

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right

Đã thêm cách đây một năm

Nội dung được cung cấp bởi Eric Ressler. Tất cả nội dung podcast bao gồm các tập, đồ họa và mô tả podcast đều được Eric Ressler hoặc đối tác nền tảng podcast của họ tải lên và cung cấp trực tiếp. Nếu bạn cho rằng ai đó đang sử dụng tác phẩm có bản quyền của bạn mà không có sự cho phép của bạn, bạn có thể làm theo quy trình được nêu ở đây https://vi.player.fm/legal.

Threshold

1
Hark | 8 | The Queen's English 30:00

cách đây 20 ngày trước30:00

Nghe Sau

Danh sách

Thích

Đã thích

30:00

Living together in a group is a strategy many animals use to survive and thrive. And a big part of what makes that living situation successful is listening. In this episode, we explore the collaborative world of the naked mole-rat. Threshold is nonprofit, listener-supported, and independently produced. You can support Threshold by donating today . To stay connected, sign up for our newsletter . Operation frog sound! Send us your frog sounds for an upcoming episode. We want you to go out, listen for frogs and toads, and record them. Just find someone croaking, and hit record on your phone. It doesn’t matter if there’s background noise. It doesn’t even matter if you’re not sure whether or not you’re hearing an amphibian—if you think you are, we would love to get a recording from you. Please also say your name and where you are in the world, and then email the recording to us at outreach@thresholdpodcast.org…

cách đây 13 ngày trước 37:13

MP3•Trang chủ episode

To wrap Season 3, Eric and Jonathan are doing something different — and a little vulnerable.

In this raw and unfiltered finale, they look back on the leadership decisions, strategic misfires, hiring blunders, and marketing missteps that didn’t go according to plan. No spin. No gloss. Just two founders owning their hardest lessons out loud.

Why end the season like this? Because mistakes aren’t just part of leadership — they are leadership. If we want a social impact sector that embraces failure as fuel for growth, we have to start by telling the truth about what we've gotten wrong.

So here it is.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Opening: “Today we're going to talk about all the shit we've messed up.”

[01:35] Why talk about mistakes at all?

[02:23] Jonathan’s board breakup

[05:34] Eric’s accidental leadership path

[08:04] Burnout and showing up as a leader

[10:26] When design isn’t enough

[13:28] Strategic blindspots

[18:17] “I blind copied them.”

[20:48] Firing with (or without) dignity

[27:07] Going too wide in marketing

[28:53] The cost of not marketing

[33:30] When vision stalls

Resources:

Podcast - Rethinking Failure in Social Impact
Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing - Discussion of MVS framework
Podcast - Designing a Purpose and Strategy with Eric Ressler
Article - Test Your Niche to Develop Your Organization’s Superpower
Article - 8 Key Ingredients to Defining Your Social Impact Niche
Article - How to Build a Next-level Content Strategy
Article - A Guide to Social Impact Marketing Through Brand-building

Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

*** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you!

We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com

Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

Chương

1. Stuff We've Messed Up (and Learned From) (00:00:00)

2. Introducing Our Mistakes (00:00:14)

3. Jonathan's Board Disbanding Blunder (00:04:04)

4. Eric's Leadership Learning Curve (00:05:34)

5. Team and Hiring Mistakes (00:13:17)

6. Marketing Missteps and Lessons (00:26:58)

7. Finding Balance and Avoiding Coasting (00:32:17)

8. Final Thoughts on Normalizing Failure (00:36:12)

48 tập

#Business #Marketing #Eric Ressler #Non-Profit #Podcasting Education #Social Impact #Nonprofit #Social Enterprise #NGO #Brand #Messages

Stuff We've Messed Up (and Learned From)

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

published cách đây 13 ngày trước

Chia sẻ

MP3•Trang chủ episode

To wrap Season 3, Eric and Jonathan are doing something different — and a little vulnerable.

So here it is.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Opening: “Today we're going to talk about all the shit we've messed up.”

[01:35] Why talk about mistakes at all?

[02:23] Jonathan’s board breakup

[05:34] Eric’s accidental leadership path

[08:04] Burnout and showing up as a leader

[10:26] When design isn’t enough

[13:28] Strategic blindspots

[18:17] “I blind copied them.”

[20:48] Firing with (or without) dignity

[27:07] Going too wide in marketing

[28:53] The cost of not marketing

[33:30] When vision stalls

Resources:

Podcast - Rethinking Failure in Social Impact
Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing - Discussion of MVS framework
Podcast - Designing a Purpose and Strategy with Eric Ressler
Article - Test Your Niche to Develop Your Organization’s Superpower
Article - 8 Key Ingredients to Defining Your Social Impact Niche
Article - How to Build a Next-level Content Strategy
Article - A Guide to Social Impact Marketing Through Brand-building

Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com

Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

Chương

1. Stuff We've Messed Up (and Learned From) (00:00:00)

2. Introducing Our Mistakes (00:00:14)

3. Jonathan's Board Disbanding Blunder (00:04:04)

4. Eric's Leadership Learning Curve (00:05:34)

5. Team and Hiring Mistakes (00:13:17)

6. Marketing Missteps and Lessons (00:26:58)

7. Finding Balance and Avoiding Coasting (00:32:17)

8. Final Thoughts on Normalizing Failure (00:36:12)

48 tập

#Business #Marketing #Eric Ressler #Non-Profit #Podcasting Education #Social Impact #Nonprofit #Social Enterprise #NGO #Brand #Messages

Tất cả các tập

1
The Sector Is Shifting: Here's How to Lead 25:55

cách đây 6 ngày trước25:55

25:55

Social impact leaders are scaling back, funding streams are evaporating, and public trust is eroding. In this candid kickoff to Season 4, Eric and Jonathan hold space for what’s really happening in the field—and why this moment demands courageous communication, community resilience, and reimagined leadership. This isn’t a time to shrink. It’s a time to show up . The surprising parallels to early COVID-era chaos (and how that can inform today’s crisis response) Why you might need to ‘scale back’ strategically—and how to do it without losing your sense of purpose. The key to rallying donors, partners, and staff using open communication and powerful impact stories. The #1 mistake leaders make when forced to let go of talented people (hint: it involves your support network) Whether you’re facing sudden federal cutbacks or seeking to maintain momentum in a tough environment, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you adapt without compromising your impact. Don’t let external forces derail your organization’s good work. Tune in now and learn how to protect your mission, inspire your team, and stay resilient. Even when the odds feel stacked against you. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - View from the field: What social impact leaders are experiencing right now [01:50] - The ripple effects of federal policy shifts: Retrenchment and risk mitigation [03:40] - “It feels like early COVID again”: Chaos, fear, and identity crisis in the sector [06:20] - The grift narrative: Online misinformation and the backlash against nonprofits [07:23] - Getting hyper-local: The strategic (and risky) pivot toward smaller spheres [08:38] - Unprecedented losses: Real-world stories of scale-downs and shutdowns [10:28] - Why the blame game backfires: Compassion over critique [13:17] - From freeze to activation: What separated resilient orgs during COVID [15:47] - "Now is the best time": Standing strong in your community [18:22] - A call to funders: Emergency support is urgently needed—again [19:25] - Action steps for leaders: Reconnect, recommit, and re-partner [21:34] - Leading through contraction: Compassionate downsizing and clarity of mission [23:53] - Over-communicating with intention: The power of transparency and storytelling Quotes: “Now is the best time to stand up for science… for a community that's trying to protect itself from a changing environment.” – Jonathan Hicken [00:15] “We need to be better at getting these stories out in a way that actually cuts through.” – Eric Ressler [07:07] “There’s almost this feeling that we’re not allowed to be successful or be optimistic right now.” – Jonathan Hicken [11:30] “Organizations that activated quickly—even imperfectly—came out stronger.” – Eric Ressler [13:50] “Start to prepare to help the people on your team land on their feet.” – Jonathan Hicken [22:25] Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Stuff We've Messed Up (and Learned From) 37:13

cách đây 13 ngày trước37:13

37:13

To wrap Season 3, Eric and Jonathan are doing something different — and a little vulnerable. In this raw and unfiltered finale, they look back on the leadership decisions, strategic misfires, hiring blunders, and marketing missteps that didn’t go according to plan. No spin. No gloss. Just two founders owning their hardest lessons out loud. Why end the season like this? Because mistakes aren’t just part of leadership — they are leadership. If we want a social impact sector that embraces failure as fuel for growth, we have to start by telling the truth about what we've gotten wrong. So here it is. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Opening: “Today we're going to talk about all the shit we've messed up.” [01:35] Why talk about mistakes at all? [02:23] Jonathan’s board breakup [05:34] Eric’s accidental leadership path [08:04] Burnout and showing up as a leader [10:26] When design isn’t enough [13:28] Strategic blindspots [18:17] “I blind copied them.” [20:48] Firing with (or without) dignity [27:07] Going too wide in marketing [28:53] The cost of not marketing [33:30] When vision stalls Resources: Podcast - Rethinking Failure in Social Impact Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing - Discussion of MVS framework Podcast - Designing a Purpose and Strategy with Eric Ressler Article - Test Your Niche to Develop Your Organization’s Superpower Article - 8 Key Ingredients to Defining Your Social Impact Niche Article - How to Build a Next-level Content Strategy Article - A Guide to Social Impact Marketing Through Brand-building Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Jonathan’s Big Problem 32:34

cách đây 20 ngày trước32:34

32:34

What do you do when your mission is evolving… but your brand, programs, and funding strategy haven’t caught up yet? In this episode, Jonathan brings a live challenge to the table: a bold new vision for the Seymour Center that could reposition it as a hub for climate solutions and STEM leadership — but it comes with branding risks, potential backlash, and major funding implications. Eric coaches him through the decision-making, exploring when to stay quiet, when to go big, and how to avoid mission creep without losing momentum. This is real-time strategy, storytelling, and nonprofit leadership — unfiltered. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Jonathan tees up a live strategy session — and asks Eric to coach him [01:12] Why the Seymour Center is shifting toward climate resilience [03:09] The dual problem: climate impact and STEM education gaps [05:49] What other groups can’t do — and where Seymour fits in [07:02] How anxiety around climate is shaping a new kind of science education [09:59] Is this a pivot, an evolution, or mission creep? [11:34] Program tweaks vs. a bigger vision shift — what's on the line [13:26] Fundraising, capital campaigns, and messaging trade-offs [15:44] The two-problem narrative — and how to avoid confusing funders [17:21] High school students as solution-makers (and a current gap) [18:25] Pilot vs. launch — the fear of going public too soon [21:00] Pushback: are we abandoning the ocean? [22:23] Dropping the term “climate change” — and why [23:00] What would Jonathan need to say “no” to? [24:25] The risk of staying the same — and the case for going bold [29:23] Why this is about relevance — not reinvention [30:14] Eric's honest advice: it’s time [31:12] “You’re not shooting from the hip anymore.” Resources: Seymour Marine Discovery Center Article - Test Your Niche to Develop Your Organization’s Superpower Article - 8 Key Ingredients to Defining Your Social Impact Niche Article - The #1 Mistake Social Impact Organizations Make in Their Digital Storytelling Article - 10 Tips for Building a Community Around Your Cause Article - Are You Bold Enough To Lead The Conversation? Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing - Discussion of MVS framework Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
How to Build a Sustainable Revenue Stream 43:19

cách đây 27 ngày trước43:19

43:19

The funding landscape is shifting, and relying on the same revenue strategies that got you here may not be enough to take your organization to the next level. Many nonprofits and social enterprises struggle to generate enough revenue—not just to sustain their work, but to fully fund their missions and reinvest in long-term growth. So how do you build a revenue model that works? One that’s not just about survival, but about impact at scale? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan dive into how funding models are evolving, why earned revenue is becoming a bigger part of the equation, and how leaders can think more strategically about their revenue mix. They also explore the key trade-offs between major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships, and earned income, and how to determine the best fit for your organization. If you’re feeling stuck in the same fundraising cycle—or wondering how to make your revenue more sustainable—this conversation is for you. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction – The funding landscape is shifting. Is your revenue strategy keeping up? [00:20] Why many orgs struggle to fully fund their mission – The hidden gap in nonprofit and social enterprise revenue [02:44] Earned revenue: The opportunity (and challenge) – Why this model is gaining traction [04:37] Is donating profits better than direct impact? – The pros and cons of different funding models [06:56] What we can learn from Patagonia – Mission-driven business models in action [09:35] Are social enterprises just businesses? – Finding the balance between impact and revenue [12:22] Authenticity vs. cause-washing – Why your origin story matters in funding decisions [15:30] Nonprofit revenue models: Expanding beyond traditional fundraising [18:31] Your revenue model needs to evolve – How to move beyond what’s worked in the past [21:25] The small donor vs. major donor dilemma – Who should you prioritize? [27:09] Building a stronger donor pipeline – How small donors can turn into major donors [30:22] The role of grants, corporate giving, and capital campaigns – Smart strategies for diversification [41:44] Five key questions to assess your funding strategy – What to ask before making a shift [42:23] Final thoughts – Funding models that drive long-term impact Resources: Article - 8 Successful Give-Back Models for Social Enterprises Article - Is the Buy-One-Give-One Model Dead? TOMS and the Future of Social Enterprises Article - How to Create the Conditions for Sustainable Revenue Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Social Impact in the Era of Misinformation & Media Chaos 28:59

cách đây 5 weeks trước28:59

28:59

We are living through the biggest shift in media and marketing of our lifetimes. Misinformation spreads faster than ever, trust in institutions is crumbling, and social impact leaders are left navigating a fractured, chaotic digital landscape. So how do you build credibility, mobilize communities, and create real impact when attention is scattered and trust is eroding? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan break down the new realities of marketing and media—the rise of digital tribalism, the fine line between authenticity and performance, and why the old marketing playbook no longer works. Episode Highlights: ⏳ [00:00] A Changing Landscape – Why today’s media environment is unlike anything we’ve seen before. ⏳ [02:46] Misinformation, AI, and Media Silos – How rapid shifts in digital communication are reshaping public trust. ⏳ [06:29] The Attention Economy is Broken – We have more information than ever—so why do people feel more disconnected? ⏳ [09:40] Should Your Organization Speak Out? – The pressure to comment on every social issue vs. staying mission-focused. ⏳ [12:48] Authenticity or Performance? – The rise of “authenticity washing” and why your audience sees through it. ⏳ [17:14] The Death of Traditional Marketing – Why the old broadcasting model no longer works—and what’s replacing it. ⏳ [21:24] From Broadcast to Relationships – How social impact leaders can shift their approach to build real trust. ⏳ [26:00] The Future of Digital Trust – How organizations can navigate the chaos and create meaningful connections. Notable Quotes: "We are in the middle of the biggest shift in media and marketing of our lifetimes." – Eric Ressler [01:26] "I know that my reaction to the world as it is, has been to sort of shrink my sphere of attention and sort of align my attention with where my ability to make impact overlaps." – Jonathan Hicken [07:31] "If we don’t actually take action on the things we say, is it really authenticity—or just another marketing play?" – Jonathan Hicken [12:48] Resources: The Lookout Article - Don’t Build Your Brand on Rented Land Article - Top 10 Mistakes Social Impact Websites Make Article - Develop a Distribution-First Mindset to Win in the Attention Economy Article - How to Defeat the 3 Toughest Challenges All Nonprofits Face Article - 4 Scroll-Stopping Digital Experiences to Inspire Your Nonprofit's Content Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Beyond Vanity Metrics: Measuring Real Impact 32:15

cách đây 6 weeks trước32:15

32:15

Most social impact leaders think they’re measuring their impact — but are they really? Measuring impact is especially difficult when change happens over years or even decades, and when the outcomes are tied to complex, systemic issues. On top of that, the process of evaluation and measurement can feel like extra work — another task on an already full plate. But without it, we risk relying on anecdotes and vibes instead of real data to prove we’re making a difference. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan break down: The difference between evaluation and measurement Why tracking the wrong metrics can hurt your mission How to measure impact without faking it. Three critical pillars of impact evaluation How to avoid the pitfalls of mission creep while staying focused on what your organization does best. If you’re struggling to track the real impact of your work — or wondering how to balance storytelling with hard data — this conversation is for you. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Why Impact Evaluation Is So Hard Measuring success isn’t just about external outcomes—it’s about internal sustainability too. Why some nonprofits don’t track their impact (and why that’s a problem). [01:22] Evaluation vs. Measurement: What’s the Difference? Evaluation = the big picture. Measurement = the tools. Why confusing the two can lead to misleading conclusions. [03:50] The Challenge of Proving Long-Term Impact "That impact story took 20 years—how do you measure it in year two?" How to identify leading indicators that show progress before the full impact is realized. [12:48] The Mission Creep Trap: Why Nonprofits Lose Focus The risk of trying to "fix everything" instead of doubling down on what you do best. How social impact leaders can take a page from academic research to avoid spreading too thin. [15:39] Measuring Internal Sustainability: The Missing Piece If your organization is burning out, your impact won’t last. The three critical pillars of evaluation every nonprofit should track. [23:46] A Simpler Way to Measure Success "Look, this doesn’t have to be complicated. Pick three things. Track them. Get better over time." How to integrate measurement into your culture—without hiring expensive consultants. Resources: Article - Beyond Aesthetics: The ROI of Brand Building Article - Prove it or Lose it: Why Proof of Impact Matters in the Social Impact Space Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
The Secret Behind High Growth Nonprofits 29:39

cách đây 7 weeks trước29:39

29:39

Nonprofit leaders constantly hear that diversifying revenue streams is the key to financial stability. But what if that advice isn't the whole story? Research shows that 90% of high-growth nonprofits rely on a single dominant funding source. Does that mean nonprofits should double down on one funding stream—or is there a smarter way to approach fundraising? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan break down the real reasons some nonprofits scale while others stay stuck, the risks and rewards of focusing on a single revenue source, and how to strike the right balance between specialization and financial security. If your organization has struggled to gain traction, this conversation is a must-listen. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction – The surprising secret behind high-growth nonprofits [02:06] Diversification vs. specialization – Why common advice might be flawed [04:52] The power of focus – How narrowing your fundraising can fuel growth [08:15] Case Study: American Kidney Fund – A nonprofit that 10X’d revenue by shifting its funding strategy [12:43] The scaling challenge – Why growing nonprofits struggle with funding transitions [15:59] The reality of small donor programs – Why they’re harder to scale than many expect [18:51] When to kill an experiment – How to know when a funding strategy isn’t working [24:09] Deep partnerships vs. shallow diversification – The value of transformational funders [26:54] Should you grow at all? – Rethinking what growth means for your nonprofit Resources: Article - SSIR - How Nonprofits Get Really Big Article - SSIR - Ten Nonprofit Funding Models Article - Why Social Impact Brands Struggle to Attract, Grow, and Retain Revenue Article - How to Create the Conditions for Sustainable Revenue Article - From Starvation to Sustainability: Rethinking Revenue in Social Impact American Kidney Fund Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing Article - Want Foundations to Fund Your Work? Speak Their Language. Here's How. Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Rethinking Failure in Social Impact 34:53

cách đây 8 weeks trước34:53

34:53

Failure isn’t just a possibility in social impact work — it’s inevitable. But are we failing constructively? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan break down the difference between constructive failure and harmful failure, and why embracing the right kind of failure is essential for innovation, leadership, and long-term impact. From team dynamics and funding challenges to moonshot thinking and psychological safety, this conversation will shift your perspective on what it truly means to fail — and how to fail forward without losing trust, credibility, or momentum for your organization. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction – Why failure is a complex, layered topic in social impact. [02:20] Why Failure Is Good (But Hard to Embrace) – The role of failure in learning, growth, and innovation—and why so many organizations resist it. [07:39] When Failure Has Real Consequences – Understanding the stakes of failure in the nonprofit sector and why some organizations can’t afford to take big risks. [12:59] Good vs. Bad Failure – Breaking down the difference between constructive failure that drives progress and failure that erodes trust and credibility. [16:08] Learning from Failure: The 4-Day Workweek Experiment – How Cosmic tested, failed, and adapted their approach to a 4-day workweek—without backtracking on their vision. [23:40] How Leaders Can Create a Culture That Supports Failure – Practical steps for building psychological safety and making failure a tool for growth instead of a risk to avoid. [29:34] Why Failure Should Be an Experiment, Not a Guess – Taking a scientific approach to failure, how funders can support responsible risk-taking, and why experimentation leads to real innovation. Quotes: "Failure is really just built into evolution, our humanity, the way physics and the world and science work at large. To not embrace it constructively, I think is just a big mistake." – Eric [02:20] "Being able, more importantly, to look failure in the eye—not just acknowledge it and move past it, but stand in the mirror and look at this failure and really let it sink in." – Jonathan [04:10] "It's really easy to talk about failure when you're not the one who's failing." – Eric [07:39] "Failure isn’t good carte blanche. We’re not out here preaching ‘go fail at everything.’ There are versions of failure that I don’t accept." – Jonathan [20:09] "If you never fail, you're not reaching far enough." – Eric [14:06] Resources: Article - The Benefits of a 4 Day Work Week For Social Impact Organizations Article - In Defense of Moonshots: True Social Innovation Requires Taking Risks Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
The Last Messaging Framework You’ll Ever Need 33:24

cách đây 9 weeks trước33:24

33:24

If you’ve ever felt like your messaging isn’t quite landing — like people don’t get it or aren’t inspired to take action — you’re not alone. We hear it all the time: “We’re struggling to tell our story.” But here’s the thing: your story isn’t the story that matters most. The real question is: How do you craft messaging that actually moves people? In this episode of Designing Tomorrow, we’re breaking down the last messaging framework you’ll ever need. We cover: The biggest messaging mistake most nonprofits and social enterprises make Why clarity beats complexity—and how to simplify without losing depth How to reframe your messaging to make your audience the hero The five key pillars of messaging that inspires action A real-time messaging workshop where we apply this framework live By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear, practical framework to refine your messaging, cut through the noise, and drive real impact. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction – The No. 1 messaging struggle we hear from social impact leaders. [02:26] The coherence problem – Why your messaging feels all over the place. [02:45] Stop being vague – How unclear, academic language turns people away. [03:36] Shift the narrative – Why your organization’s story isn’t the most important one. [05:04] What does success look like? – The messaging shift that changes everything. [06:18] Articulating the problem – Making your cause relevant and urgent. [08:10] Know your audience – How to align your message with what people care about. [10:19] Paint a vivid vision – Why great messaging starts with a powerful, clear vision. [11:56] The power of a point of view – Why your philosophy shapes your messaging. [13:14] Voice, tone, and personality – The secret to making your messaging feel human. [19:48] Live messaging workshop – Real-time messaging strategy in action. [31:40] Key takeaways – The essential pillars of messaging that move people. Quotes: “Your story is not really the story you want to be telling. The story you want to be telling or planting seeds around is how can you get involved in helping us move our mission forward?” – Eric Ressler [03:36] “I think also another thing that can happen is that we try to capture too many ideas or too many perspectives or too many audiences all and try to just get it all into one thing. And then what we end up with is a word or a phrase that doesn't actually really mean anything.” – Jonathan Hicken [02:26] “The hardest thing to do, and I've tried, is to get AI to capture your voice. That is really hard.” – Eric Ressler [13:14] “I mean, the seminal example of a vision statement is Dr. Martin Luther King’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech.” – Jonathan Hicken [10:19] “Can you imagine a world where young children are not scared of climate change but motivated to actually participate in the solution?” – Eric Ressler [29:38] Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
The Changing Work Culture in Social Impact 37:25

cách đây 10 weeks trước37:25

37:25

The way we work is changing — fast. Remote work, shifting boundaries, and evolving expectations have reshaped what it means to work in the social impact sector. But are nonprofits keeping up? In this episode, Jonathan and Eric dive into the unique challenges mission-driven organizations face in building a sustainable, healthy work culture. From balancing remote flexibility with team cohesion to tackling burnout in a sector known for overwork, they explore what leaders must do to attract and retain top talent while staying true to their mission. Plus, Jonathan issues a challenge to nonprofit leaders: Can we be the best at work-life balance? Episode Highlights: [00:00] The Work Culture Shift How expectations around work have fundamentally changed Why nonprofits struggle with remote and hybrid models [01:00] Jonathan’s Story: Fired for Remote Work The personal experience that shaped his perspective on workplace flexibility Why remote work remains more challenging for social impact organizations [04:07] The Benefits & Drawbacks of Remote Work Eric’s experience running a fully remote creative agency How remote work can improve deep focus but challenge collaboration [10:29] The Energy of Mission-Driven Teams Can remote teams maintain the passion that fuels social impact work? The hidden costs of losing in-person connection [15:29] The Tech & Infrastructure Challenge Why some nonprofits struggle with digital transformation How tech gaps impact remote and hybrid team success [21:43] Remote Fundraising: Does It Work? Can major donor relationships thrive without in-person connection? What nonprofits can learn from virtual client relationships in other sectors [26:57] More Than Just Remote Work: The Bigger Shift Work-life balance, burnout, and rethinking work as identity Why social impact leaders must prioritize a sustainable work culture [35:27] A Challenge for Nonprofit Leaders Jonathan’s call to action: Nonprofits should lead in work culture How flexibility and balance can be a competitive advantage Quotes: "The biggest challenge for social impact teams? So much of our work is fueled by passion. Remote work makes that harder." — Jonathan Hicken [09:43] "People are no longer willing to sacrifice their entire personal life for work—and that’s a good recalibration." — Eric Ressler [27:38] "If we can’t pay the highest salaries, we must lead in work culture. Let’s be the best at balance." — Jonathan Hicken [35:27] Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Why Confident Leaders Build Stronger Organizations 25:01

cách đây 11 weeks trước25:01

25:01

Confidence: it’s one of the most critical traits for effective leadership, but also one of the trickiest to master. In this episode of Designing Tomorrow , Eric and Jonathan dive into what it truly means to embody confidence as a social impact leader. From personal struggles with self-doubt to lessons on humility, resilience, and overconfidence, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the realities of leadership in nonprofit and social enterprise sectors. How can confidence breed success? When does it go too far? And most importantly, how can you build confidence in yourself, your team, and your organization? Tune in for actionable insights, relatable stories, and a fresh take on leadership growth. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction: Eric introduces the theme of confidence and why it’s essential for social impact leaders. [00:08] The Struggle with Self-Doubt: Jonathan shares how he’s often questioned his ability to lead major projects. [00:17] Why Confidence Matters: Eric explains how indecision and lack of confidence can undermine effective leadership. [00:33] Confidence ≠ Arrogance: Jonathan emphasizes that confidence and humility can coexist, and being confident doesn’t mean being an "asshole." [00:40] The Paradox of Expertise: Eric reflects on how experience reveals how much there is still to learn. [05:43] Embracing Growth Zones: Eric’s story of “faking it until making it” and how leaders can thrive outside their comfort zones. [09:13] When Confidence Goes Too Far: Exploring the pitfalls of overconfidence, from cockiness to overreliance on charismatic leaders. [21:17] Building Organizational Confidence: The role of strong branding, strategy, and structure in creating sustainable success. [24:02] Closing Thoughts: Why confidence, when cultivated authentically, is a leadership superpower—and how it can benefit your entire organization. Resources: David C. Baker Podcast - Designing a Purpose and Strategy with Eric Ressler Article - In Defense of Moonshots: True Social Innovation Requires Taking Risks Article - 3 Signs That It's Time to Hire a Creative Agency Article - How to Defeat the 3 Toughest Challenges All Nonprofits Face Article - Define Your Social Impact Niche to Build a Brand That Matters Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
The Right Way to Align Marketing and Fundraising 33:26

cách đây 12 weeks trước33:26

33:26

Marketing and fundraising are the lifeblood of social impact organizations. But too often, they're working in silos, disconnected, or even at odds with each other. This is a huge problem. Because when these two critical functions aren't aligned, it hurts your ability to build trust with donors, limits your fundraising potential, and ultimately reduces your impact. In our latest episode of Designing Tomorrow, Jonathan and Eric dig into this age-old disconnect and uncover the strategies that successful organizations use to get marketing and fundraising working in harmony. We explore how aligning these departments can: → Amplify your overall impact → Increase donor trust and engagement → Help you achieve your social mission more effectively If your marketing and fundraising teams aren't collaborating effectively — or at all — this conversation will inspire you to fix that. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction: Why marketing and fundraising often operate in silos—and why it’s a problem. [00:14] A Powerful Metaphor: Jonathan compares marketing and fundraising to an orchestra’s melody and rhythm. [01:21] Core Responsibilities of Marketing vs. Fundraising: Eric and Jonathan define the primary functions of each team. [05:04] The Biggest Mistakes: Common pitfalls organizations make when these teams fail to align. [10:24] Shared Metrics for Success: How marketing and fundraising can measure success together. [13:45] The Role of Leadership: Why leaders must foster collaboration and set shared goals. [21:08] Strategies for Integration: Practical steps to align these two functions for maximum impact. [29:00] Key Takeaways: Final advice for nonprofit and social enterprise leaders. Resources: Article - From Starvation to Sustainability: Rethinking Revenue in Social Impact Whitepaper - Going All In: A Digital-First Guide to Sustained Nonprofit Fundraising Article - How to Differentiate Campaign Messaging for Major Donors vs. Grassroots Supporters Article - How to Increase Supporter and Donor Action Using an Engagement Pyramid Article - 8 Reasons Why Donors Aren’t Giving on Your Nonprofit’s Website Journey Maps Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
The Art and Science of Trust Building 39:03

cách đây 13 weeks trước39:03

39:03

Trust is not a given — it’s earned. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan explore how trust is shifting away from institutions and toward relationships, and why that’s reshaping the way nonprofits and social impact organizations must operate. You’ll gain insights on: The hidden power of impact storytelling and why nonprofits often overlook it. The five pillars of trust backed by science—and how to apply them. Why relationships are overtaking institutions as trust-builders. The surprising tension between vulnerability and expertise for leaders. Practical strategies to foster trust internally with your team and externally with your supporters. This episode will challenge your assumptions about trust and help you build stronger, more authentic connections — whether you're a nonprofit leader, social enterprise founder, or someone passionate about creating lasting impact. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction Eric and Jonathan introduce the theme: Why trust isn’t a safe assumption anymore. [01:33] Declining Trust in Institutions A startling stat: Only 22% of Americans trust the federal government (2024). Nonprofits are more trusted than many institutions—but trust is still declining. [02:38] The Art of Trust Building How “first impressions” of your brand—like your website or emails—shape trust. Subconscious cues that determine whether someone engages or walks away. [05:08] Micro vs. Macro Trust Smaller organizations thrive on personal relationships, but big brands often have institutional trust built over time. Why your brand must back up individual relationships with authentic messaging. [08:10] Where Is Trust Going? Trust is shifting from organizations to relationships. Why larger digital-first organizations may face unique challenges in this new trust dynamic. [12:01] Impact Storytelling: The Trust Superpower Why nonprofits underinvest in storytelling—and why it’s their most powerful trust-building tool. Balancing emotional stories with transparent statistics and outcomes. [13:50] The Science of Trust The 5 pillars of trust: reliability, transparency, competence, vulnerability, and empathy. Why setting expectations is key to being perceived as reliable and trustworthy. [24:56] Internal Trust with Teams Building trust within your staff through recognition, autonomy, and support. How to find the right balance between freedom and structure for different employees. [33:57] Leadership Vulnerability When—and how—to show vulnerability as a leader without undermining trust. The importance of intentionality and transparency when connecting with your team. [37:48] Final Thoughts Trust is an ongoing process, not a finish line. It’s an art and a science—and it deserves your full attention. Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Why Your Team Is Losing Motivation—and How to Stop It. 35:15

cách đây 14 weeks trước35:15

35:15

How do you keep your team energized, engaged, and aligned—especially in the demanding world of social impact? Passion and purpose are key, but they’re not enough on their own. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan unpack the essential elements of team motivation, exploring why some teams thrive while others stall, and revealing the missing ingredient in traditional approaches to workplace fulfillment. Plus, hear how strategies like impact storytelling, feedback systems, and even gym breaks can transform your culture and keep burnout at bay. Ready to inspire your team? Let’s get into it. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Opening Thoughts The unique challenges and opportunities for social impact leaders. [03:41] Breaking Down Team Motivation The differences between highly motivated teams and struggling ones. [06:16] Adding Balance to the Equation How burnout is more than just a workload issue—it’s a balance issue. [08:06] Meaning and Impact: Telling Your Story Jonathan’s new strategy: tasking a team member with collecting 30 impact stories a year. [12:05] Individual Roles Matter How to build motivation by recognizing the unique value of every team member. [17:48] Compensation: A Foundational Factor A quick reminder: pay matters, and it’s a crucial piece of the puzzle. [18:06] Passion Plans: A New Idea for Leaders Jonathan’s concept of “passion plans” to help employees deepen their connection to the work. [24:33] Can You Nurture Other Parts of Your Life? How balance and personal growth amplify professional motivation. [30:32] Leadership’s Role in Motivation Motivation is personal: How leaders can uncover individual drivers. [34:03] Closing Reflections Resources: Ikigai Diagram Unexpected Ways a Rebrand Can Supercharge Your Team Culture Your Theory of Change isn't finished until your Grandma can understand it. 8 Ways To Make Your Nonprofit Storytelling Stand Out How to use Crowdsourcing to Fuel Your Nonprofit's Digital Content Strategy Why Most Activation Plans Fail and How to Fix Yours. The Benefits of a 4 Day Work Week Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

1
Rewind: When You Should (And Shouldn't) Rebrand 30:32

cách đây 15 weeks trước30:32

30:32

Rewind: This episode was orginally published in Season 2, Episode 1. New episodes from Season 3 will continue to publish next week. — You probably shouldn’t rebrand your social impact organization. Except, of course, when you really should . (wait, what?) Because when the conditions are right, a rebrand can be one of the most powerful ways to reach your mission faster. But how do you know when it’s the right time to invest in a rebrand? Let’s be real: a rebrand is a big swing move. And it’s a tempting play to run when: ↳ You aren’t making the impact you need to ↳ You can’t seem to get your story or message across ↳ You aren’t getting engagement from customers or donors ↳ Your current brand feels dusty and dissonant BUT There are times when you absolutely, positively, shouldn’t do a rebrand. And if you try to push one through anyway, the results can be disastrous and might even cause a huge backlash from your community of supporters. In this week’s Episode of Designing Tomorrow , Jonathan and Eric discuss how you know if it’s the right time to invest in a rebrand for your social impact org. And maybe even more importantly, what to watch out for to make sure you are ready to make the most of it. Episode Highlights [00:00] – Introduction to the topic of rebranding social impact organizations. [01:07] – The importance of rebranding as a significant investment. [03:04] – The role of rebranding during organizational growth or inflection points. [05:20] – Rebranding as a solution for organizations stuck in a stagnation loop. [08:19] – Rebranding during large strategic shifts and the concept of nonprofit life cycles. [09:01] – Addressing outdated branding and content strategies. [12:02] – The importance of effectively communicating your story to supporters. [14:45] - Discusses the pitfalls of rebranding without a clear strategy or measurable ROI. [15:22] - Emphasizes the importance of having broad support within the organization for a rebrand to avoid pitfalls and ensure effectiveness. [18:29] - Advises on the integration of rebranding efforts with strategic planning for a cohesive approach. [23:44] - Highlights the necessity of adequate resources and long-term planning to sustain a rebrand beyond its initial launch. Resources Article - Dare to Be Bold: Making a Case for Better Social Impact Branding Article - Unexpected Ways a Rebrand Can Supercharge Your Team Culture Article - Navigating a Rebrand: Nine Common Mistakes to Avoid Book - Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Chào mừng bạn đến với Player FM!

Player FM đang quét trang web để tìm các podcast chất lượng cao cho bạn thưởng thức ngay bây giờ. Đây là ứng dụng podcast tốt nhất và hoạt động trên Android, iPhone và web. Đăng ký để đồng bộ các theo dõi trên tất cả thiết bị.