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On The Ground: Daily Summaries Delivered
by James Misner
As CEO of The Kipos Group, James Misner has spent years in the trenches with nonprofit leaders. "On the Ground" brings those conversations to you—unfiltered insights by nonprofit leaders, for nonprofit leaders. Real Leaders. Real Challenges. Real Solutions.
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- 4 days ago40 min
Technology Isn’t the Mission: How to Stop Losing Donors to Disconnected Systems
Discover how technology and AI are transforming nonprofit work, enhancing donor relationships, and increasing efficiency in this insightful conversation with David Blyer, CEO of Arreva.Main Topics:The evolution of technology in nonprofits over 25 yearsChallenges with disconnected systems and integrationThe role and future of AI in fundraising and donor managementBuilding trust and protecting donor data with AIPractical steps for nonprofits to adopt new tech with limited resourcesIn this episode:David Blyer shares his journey from software entrepreneurship to solving nonprofit data challengesThe importance of integrated systems in donor engagement and fundraisingHow AI can streamline communication, improve donor retention, and enhance decision-makingKey considerations for responsible AI use, including donor data privacyThe future of technology in nonprofits, including AI embedded into daily operationsPractical advice for nonprofits on adopting technology within budget constraintsTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and David Blyer’s background in nonprofit technology 01:12 - Early career and transition into solving nonprofit data problems 02:38 - Identifying the gap: disconnected nonprofit systems 03:57 - How Arreva simplifies donor management for nonprofits 06:42 - Current challenges nonprofits face with multiple systems 08:00 - The importance of timely communication for donor retention 09:56 - Impact of delayed donor communication on giving behavior 11:22 - The role of technology in building trust and relationships 13:00 - Retention statistics and the importance of stewardship 14:26 - Overcoming resource limitations for technology investment 15:48 - The significance of integrated all-in-one solutions 18:10 - Practical steps to streamline nonprofit operations and data management 19:12 - Engaging the board for technology approval 20:36 - How nonprofits can fund technology using existing resources 21:28 - The current state and potential of AI in nonprofits 22:18 - The practical benefits and risks of AI adoption today 23:45 - AI in crafting communication, fundraising, and donor insights 25:38 - Using AI responsibly to protect donor privacy 26:47 - Data protection principles with AI in nonprofit contexts 29:28 - The future of technology and AI in nonprofits over the next decade 30:25 - How AI will enhance fundraisers and personalize supporter engagement 33:03 - The ongoing importance of trust and relationships in fundraising 34:20 - Arriva’s unique offerings and how they improve nonprofit data systems 36:39 - Connecting with David Blyer and Arreva 37:09 - Final thoughts: technology as an enabler for mission-driven workResources & Links:The Kipos Group WebsiteSchedule a Discovery Call with JamesConnect with James Misner on LinkedinConnect with David:Arreva Official WebsiteConnect with David Blyer on Linkedin
- 1 weeks ago26 min
$10 Million With 6 Staff: How the Okanagan Science Centre Is Building a Campaign
How the Okanagan Science Center Leads with Community and Innovation Join us as Dione Chambers, director of the Okanagan Science Center, shares her journey from chemistry and nanotechnology to leading a beloved community science hub. Discover how she navigates fundraising, community engagement, and innovation in a small-town setting. Main Topic:Transitioning from science to nonprofit leadershipCreative funding strategies during challenging timesLeveraging digital platforms for education and revenueLeading through crisis: fire and pandemic responsesBuilding community support for capital campaignsIn this episode:Dione's career path from nanotech to nonprofit leadershipThe role of traveling exhibits and unique programs at a small science centerHow moving online during COVID opened new revenue streamsLessons learned from managing a fire and operational disruptionsStrategies for community engagement and communicationPractical advice for leaders: building teams and prioritizing fundraisingTimestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Dione Chambers and the Okanagan Science Center's unique story 00:21 - The location and community context of the Okanagan Valley 01:08 - Dione's transition from chemistry and nanotech to nonprofit leadership 01:33 - How her diverse experiences shape her approach to managing the science center 02:28 - What visitors experience at the science center, including exhibits and animal displays 03:00 - The popularity of axolotls and other unique science experiences 04:27 - Funding structures and revenue strategies, including moving online 05:09 - Deep dive into the center’s online platform and educational offerings 06:08 - The role of web-based programs for school groups and community 07:05 - Supporting teachers with accessible resources 07:35 - Looking ahead: fundraising plans and engaging community support 08:22 - The upcoming $10 million capital campaign and early donor engagement 09:38 - The importance of dedicated fundraising focus for nonprofit leaders 09:57 - Challenges faced with the canceled science festival and lessons in crisis management 12:52 - Navigating the fire emergency and restoring community trust 15:44 - The 'plant bingo' event as a creative response during closures 17:16 - Community resilience and communication during crises 18:51 - Marketing lessons learned from the fire and signage challenges 20:43 - The importance of multi-channel communication in busy community environments 22:50 - Leadership lessons: building teams, delegating, and self-care 24:00 - Connecting with Dione and the Okanagan Science Center for further engagementResources & Links:The Kipos Group WebsiteSchedule a Discovery Call with JamesConnect with James Misner on LinkedinConnect with Dione Chambers:Okanagan Science Center Official WebsiteConnect with Dione Chambers on Linkedin
- 2 weeks ago36 min
15 Kids to 100,000: How Kupenda Scales Disability Inclusion Through Others
Transforming Attitudes and Building Communities: How Kupenda Promotes Disability Inclusion and Breaks Down Stigma Cynthia Bauer of Kupenda shares her journey from wildlife biology to leading a global movement against disability stigma. Learn how strategic partnerships, grassroots work, and smart measurement tools drive lasting change worldwide.In this episode:Cindy's story and Kupenda's originsHow disability stigma is rooted in cultural beliefsScaling impact through local partner organizationsKey partnerships (World Hope International, World Relief)Faith and community leaders' role in reducing stigmaFundraising lessons: skip capital campaigns, build long-term relationshipsMeasuring impact, from workshops to community ripple effectsLessons from unsuccessful initiatives like teacher trainingIntegrating disability into development and social justiceHow philanthropic funding is allocated todayTimestamps:00:00 - Intro to Cynthia and Kupenda00:21 - Cindy's story, discovering stigma in Kenya01:36 - Kupenda's accidental founding02:55 - From basic aid to root causes03:34 - Faith and community leaders shifting beliefs04:36 - What Kupenda does today; meaning of the name05:57 - Engaging influencers for inclusion06:27 - Scaling via local partnerships07:37 - Early fundraising, hiring a development director09:14 - Government/foundation funding & measurement10:53 - Demonstrating impact through studies, stories11:46 - Lessons from teacher-training setbacks12:28 - Influencing others without direct implementation13:03 - Building disability-inclusive development models14:19 - Partnerships in Sierra Leone and Malawi15:56 - Reach: working with 27+ organizations16:51 - Storytelling and communicating impact18:02 - Measuring stigma reduction, transformation22:27 - Case story: a mother and her children23:45 - Lessons from failed quick fixes, segregated education26:01 - Fundraising pitfalls: capital campaigns, one-off events28:51 - Mindset shift during crises like COVID-1929:20 - Cindy's vision for Kupenda's next decade31:09 - Disability as a shared development lens32:52 - State of philanthropic giving to disability causes33:33 - Impact of shifting perceptions, systemic inclusion34:16 - How to connect with Cynthia and KupendaResources & Links:The Kipos Group WebsiteSchedule a Discovery Call with JamesConnect with James Misner on LinkedinConnect with Cindy:Kupenda Official WebsiteDocumentary: Climbing Kilimanjaro with Kids with DisabilitiesUnlikely Gifts Podcast Connect with Cynthia Bauer on Linkedin
- 3 weeks ago25 min
$55, 5 Years of Impact: How Growing Hope Globally Turns Farms Into Fundraisers
Growing Hope Globally: Connecting Communities for Global Food SecurityIn this episode, Kaitlyn from Growing Hope Globally shares how local farming initiatives in the U.S. create global impact, supporting farmers in developing countries and fostering international unity.Main Topic:Origin and evolution of Growing Hope GloballyCommunity-wide farming projects and their global effectsRural-urban partnerships across the U.S.The importance of land and acreage in farming successChallenges and opportunities in rural farming communitiesStrategies for expanding and sustaining global impactTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction to Growing Hope Globally's mission00:42 – The story behind its founding01:07 – How local farmers support global hunger solutions01:35 – The model of local crop growth and community involvement02:01 – Impact of donations and community participation02:28 – Long-term effects on farmers overseas03:26 – The community aspect and volunteerism04:17 – The power of grassroots farming and urban communities05:13 – Examples of urban-rural partnerships and their benefits05:49 – Stories of global farmer connections06:42 – Building relational communities and global understanding07:40 – Shared farming priorities worldwide08:06 – Beyond donations: seeing each other as human beings08:35 – Scale of impact from Midwest communities09:04 – The community as a "knitting circle for men"09:14 – Importance of rural-urban partnerships in fractured times09:42 – How nonprofits foster community engagement10:11 – Kaitlyn's journey and farming background10:26 – Her transition into leadership at Growing Hope11:11 – Reflections on leadership and community impact11:32 – Growth and fundraising challenges amid economic fluctuations12:53 – Current economic impacts on farming and nonprofit funding13:20 – Staying true to the farming community's core identity14:20 – Creative fundraising ideas (tournaments, dining events)15:15 – Balancing traditional farming models with innovation16:17 – Why acreage and land size are crucial for farm projects17:06 – Case example of land sharing among farmers18:03 – Relationship between land size, equipment, and profitability18:47 – The significance of scale in farming success19:15 – Future goals and geographic expansion20:21 – Migration and economic stability through community investments21:49 – How to learn more: website, social media, starting your own project23:12 – The power of small beginnings in fighting hunger23:40 – Final thoughts on collective impact and connectionResources and Links:The Kipos Group WebsiteSchedule a Discovery Call with JamesConnect with James Misner on LinkedinConnect with Kaitlyn:Growing Hope Globally WebsiteLinkedIn Kaitlyn
- Jun 18, 202628 min
From $2.3M to $5.7M in 8 Years: How Hope Walks Is Eliminating Clubfoot Worldwide
From Nurturing Nurses to Transforming Lives: The Hopes Walks JourneyDiscover how a nurse’s volunteer work evolved into a global movement eliminating clubfoot disability, transforming thousands of lives across multiple countries. Join us as Scott Reichenbach shares the inspiring story behind Hope Walks, strategic growth, and the power of faith and community in health initiatives in this episode:Scott Reichenbach’s background in nursing and how it led to founding Hope WalksThe transformative power of simple medical treatments for clubfootThe strategic growth from a small program to a multi-million dollar international organizationKey tactics used to scale impact amid global health challengesThe importance of trusted team leadership and trusting community expertiseFuture plans to reach 60,000 children by 2030 and expand into IndiaLessons learned from early fundraising efforts and organizational pivotsHow addressing stigma transforms communities and promotes inclusionTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Scott Reichenbach and the origin story of Hope Walks02:30 - The connection between personal faith, health, and service in global contexts05:12 - The impact of simple treatments like casting in curing clubfoot09:05 - Cost analysis: How $500 transforms a child's life from disability to mobility13:04 - Organizational growth: Scaling from initial funding to a $5.7 million budget15:45 - Strategies behind fundraising success and building sustainable support18:25 - Addressing disability stigma and promoting inclusion through healthcare21:19 - Lessons from early organizational failures and how trusting the team made a difference23:24 - The vision for expanding access to care in 15+ countries by 203025:07 - The emerging opportunity in India: how prayer, partnerships, and persistence paid off26:32 - How listeners can learn more and support Hope Walks’ missionResources & Links:Kipos GroupSchedule a CallConnect with Scott Reichenbach:Hope Walks on LinkedInHope Walks
- Apr 28, 202639 min
Lead With Optimism or Get Out of the Way: Kendra Davenport on Running a National Nonprofit
Adaptive Show Notes for "Leading with Innovation and Humanity at Easterseals" Podcast EpisodeJoin us as Kendra Ennis Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals, shares how the organization serves over 1 million people annually by blending tradition with innovation, storytelling with impact, and optimism with realism. Discover how Easterseals navigates funding gaps, scales care, and advocates for disability awareness with heart and ingenuity.Main Topics:The evolution and ongoing innovation at Easterseals over 107 yearsCreative models for adult disability services, including the open-air PIAT centerFundraising strategies that humanize and elevate adult programsThe power of storytelling and participant agency in advocacyLeaders' resilience in challenging nonprofit environmentsBuilding a national brand movement similar to breast cancer awarenessStrategies for smaller nonprofits to scale impact and grow supportIn this episode:Kendra shares how Easterseals combines its rich heritage with innovative service deliveryAn inside look at the open-air adult day program in Southern CaliforniaThe importance of storytelling and participant consent in advocacy campaignsLessons learned from a failed gaming program and pivoting with transparencyHow to foster positivity and resilience in nonprofit leadershipStrategies to grow awareness and support for disability issues through example organizations like Susan G. KomenPractical advice for small nonprofits to step out of comfort zones and expand their impactTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Easterseals and its impact on over a million individuals annually 00:31 - Kendra's background and vision for sustaining innovation over 107 years 01:56 - The juxtaposition of tradition and innovation at Easterseals 03:19 - Innovative adult day services — open-air centers and personalized care models 05:00 - The story of the PIAT open-air adult day center in Southern California 07:05 - Fundraising challenges and human storytelling for adult programs 09:15 - Engaging veteran stories to highlight resilience and purpose 11:56 - Maintaining positivity despite national funding challenges 14:49 - How Easterseals continues to evolve and celebrate long-term impact 16:58 - The importance of storytelling, authenticity, and participant agency 22:51 - Lessons learned from a failed gaming program and pivoting with transparency 22:58 - Crafting stories that balance honesty with emotional connection 28:40 - The role of personal stories in advocacy and fundraising success 33:31 - Building a national awareness movement for disability akin to breast cancer campaigns 34:00 - Advice for small nonprofits aspiring to grow impact 38:02 - Connecting with Easterseals and future leadership initiativesResources & Links:Kipos GroupSchedule a callConnect with Kendra:Kendra Ennis Davenport - LinkedInEasterseals
- Apr 23, 202631 min
From $7,000 to $800,000: How North Bay Transformed Its Fundraising Strategy
From $7,000 to $800,000: How North Bay Transformed Its Fundraising StrategyDiscover how North Bay, a 17-year-old outdoor education organization, shifted from negligible fundraising to confidently raising nearly $800,000 annually. Jen Foy shares her journey, strategies, and lessons learned to inspire nonprofit leaders to rethink their funding models and systems.In this episode:The storytelling power of cohesive messaging in fundraisingHow North Bay identified and invested in foundational partnershipsThe importance of starting small with systems and processesStrategies for building a community presence and recognitionLessons learned from failed outreach effortsThe role of team culture and leadership in risk-taking and learningPractical steps to grow a donor list from scratchThe concept of 'learning labs' for continuous improvementThe significance of 'day in the life' visits for engagementFuture fundraising plans and expanding donor pipelinesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction: The mission to change nonprofit funding perceptions01:51 - Jen Foy’s background and North Bay's vision02:58 - Challenges faced: organizational burnout and funding crises04:09 - The fundraising vacuum: initial small donations and reliance on grants05:32 - Entering a new era: from $7,000 to $800,000 in annual revenue10:00 - Building foundation and corporation partnerships: starting points11:11 - The decision to invest in fundraisers: making a strategic leap12:46 - Overcoming fear: why investment was a necessity13:46 - Navigating community perception and awareness gaps15:11 - Why North Bay focused on corporate and foundation funding16:51 - Setting up effective systems: KPIs, tracking, and iteration18:13 - Embracing imperfect systems: starting small and scaling19:10 - The 'day in the life' visits approach and its impact on engagement21:37 - Lessons from failures: email campaigns and event turnout23:13 - Reflecting and learning: debriefs and team culture26:17 - Leadership principles fostering a collaborative, risk-tolerant team27:14 - Next steps: expanding the donor base and future growth28:24 - Final advice: start small, take risks, and learn fastResources & Links:The Kipos Group WebsiteBook a discovery Call with James M.Connect with Jen Foy:LinkedInConnect with James Misner:LinkedIn
- Apr 7, 202643 min
$10 Million in 90 Days: How World Relief Housed 3,998 Refugee Families When the Government Cut Funds
In this episode of On the Ground with James Misner, James sits down with Calla Parker and Matt Soerens to unpack how World Relief mobilized a rapid, faith-driven response—raising $10 million in just 90 days and housing 3,998 refugee families.This conversation goes beyond the numbers. Calla and Matt share what it looked like to navigate sudden policy shifts, respond to urgent human need, and lead through uncertainty while staying grounded in mission. They also reveal the behind-the-scenes strategy—how advocacy, storytelling, and donor engagement came together to fuel one of the most critical fundraising efforts in recent history.
About On The Ground
As CEO of The Kipos Group, James Misner has spent years in the trenches with nonprofit leaders. "On the Ground" brings those conversations to you—unfiltered insights by nonprofit leaders, for nonprofit leaders. Real Leaders. Real Challenges. Real Solutions.
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