Best Amira Learning Podcasts (2024)

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129. Paid or Volunteer Role? A Simple Checklist 34:32

7h ago34:32

34:32

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi provides a thorough guide on distinguishing between paid and volunteer roles within nonprofit organizations. Tobi offers a simple checklist and key considerations involving legal implications, labor laws, and tax aspects. She also touches on sustainability, efficiency, and the integration of vol…

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128. Insurance for Volunteers - Do You Need It? with William Henry 1:02:54

6d ago1:02:54

1:02:54

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi invites William Henry onto the podcast to discuss the critical yet often overlooked topic of insurance for volunteers. They delve into the need-to-have and nice-to-have insurance policies for nonprofit organizations that engage volunteers. The discussion touches on general liability, auto liabil…

1
127. Volunteer Centric, Community Centric, Organization Centric: What's the Difference? 34:47

14d ago34:47

34:47

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi delves into the different approaches to volunteer engagement: volunteer-centric, community-centric, and organization-centric. Tobi provides insights on the significance of each approach, their benefits, and challenges, while sharing practical tips for balancing these orientations within nonprofi…

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126. 8 Ways to Empower, Not Rescue Nonprofit Employees & Volunteers 41:15

21d ago41:15

41:15

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi shares the 8 ways to empower, not rescue nonprofit employees and volunteers. She discusses the importance of coaching skills for nonprofit professionals who work with volunteers, highlighting key lessons and frameworks that help improve performance. Tobi outlines how nonprofit organizations can …

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125. Diversity & Women in the Workplace: Claim You Space with Amira Barger 1:04:49

28d ago1:04:49

1:04:49

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson invites strategic communications and marketing counselor, Amira Barger for an enlightening discussion on diversity and women in the workplace. They explore the unique challenges faced by women, the role of organizations in addressing systemic inequities, and the importance of advocacy an…

1
124. Equity Tools for Nonprofits Volunteerism with Faiza Venzant 1:09:22

1M ago1:09:22

1:09:22

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson invites Faiza Venzant onto the show to discuss equity tools for nonprofits volunteerism. They highlight the ADEVI project and the Equity to Action Toolkit, which has been designed to integrate more inclusivity and equity into volunteer programs. Faiza shares insights from her work and pe…

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123. New Research on the Benefits of Volunteering with Samantha Barlow 48:53

1M ago48:53

48:53

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi invites Samantha Barlow onto the show to talk about new research on the benefits of volunteering. They delve into the benefits for both volunteers and communities, the evolving role of volunteers, and the success of Human Appeal's volunteer program. Key talking points include community volunteer…

1
122. Rethinking Community Involvement with Ruth Leonard 1:01:55

2M ago1:01:55

1:01:55

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi invites Ruth Leonard back onto the show and delve into rethinking community involvement, specifically talking about the key themes from Ruth's book, Volunteer Involvement: An Introduction to Theory and Practice. The pair explore critical reflections on volunteerism, the importance of redefining …

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121. Intuitive Leadership in Volunteer Coordination with Fran Horwich 1:03:39

2M ago1:03:39

1:03:39

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi invites Fran Horwich onto the show to discuss intuitive leadership in volunteer coordination. Fran shares stories from her extensive experience, emphasizing the importance of understanding volunteers' personal motivations and the necessity of professional boundary setting. The pair also provide …

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120. 10 Volunteer Interview Questions for a Perfect Match 30:23

2M ago30:23

30:23

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson shares 10 volunteer interview questions for a perfect match to ensure a good fit between the volunteers and the organization's roles, tasks, and mission. She emphasizes the significance of understanding volunteers' motivations, skills, and values to enhance retention and create an enjoya…

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119. Volunteer Manager Salary & Career Paths with Megan Vixie 1:00:24

2M ago1:00:24

1:00:24

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, host Tobi Johnson interviews Megan Vixie, Chief Engagement Officer at Beach Cities Health District, about volunteer manager salary levels and career paths. They discuss the importance of volunteerism, Megan's journey in volunteer engagement, and the professional career pathway survey conducted by the…

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118. 8 Ways to Make Volunteering Experiences Much Easier 42:19

3M ago42:19

42:19

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi shares eight practical ways to make volunteering experiences much easier! She addresses the post-pandemic challenges of re-engaging volunteers and emphasizes the need for convenience and efficiency. Tobi covers topics such as running a more efficient program, improving contact methods, offering …

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117. Beyond the Big Help Out with Ruth Leonard & Rob Jackson 42:10

3M ago42:10

42:10

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi offers a unique format as she travels to England to present a workshop with the Association of Volunteer Managers, sponsored by Team Kinetic. The workshop, titled 'Beyond the Big Help Out: How to Recruit Your Volunteer Dream Team with a Solid Plan for Action,' focuses on volunteer recruitment, c…

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116. New Ways of Thinking About Volunteer Data & Tech with Chris Martin 1:05:16

3M ago1:05:16

1:05:16

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, host Tobi Johnson is in Manchester, England, speaking with Chris Martin from TeamKinetic. They explore new ways of thinking about volunteer data and tech, covering topics such as the role of AI, open data, reusable personal credentials, and techniques for efficiently tracking volunteer hours. Chris s…

1
115. Your Quick Guide to Amazing Volunteer Events 33:46

3M ago33:46

33:46

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, host Tobi Johnson offers a comprehensive guide on planning successful volunteer events. Tobi shares her insights and favorite tips on how to organize events that engage and bond volunteers, making them feel valued and connected. Drawing from her experiences attending various events and conferences, s…

1
114. Volunteerism Statistics for 2024: Insights from Our Latest Research - Part 2 35:55

4M ago35:55

35:55

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the findings from the Volunteer Management Progress Report. This is part two of a two-part series focusing on volunteerism statistics for 2024, offering insights on the internal support within organizations for those leading volunteers. Tobi highlights the importance of leaders…

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113. Volunteerism Statistics for 2024: Insights from Our Latest Research - Part 1 39:05

4M ago39:05

39:05

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, host Tobi Johnson delves into volunteerism statistics for 2024, sharing insights from the latest Volunteer Management Progress Report. Tobi discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on volunteer capacity, the challenges of recruitment and retention, and provides a detailed look at trends in activ…

1
112. How to Run a Value-Packed Volunteer Q&A 27:39

4M ago27:39

27:39

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into the undervalued yet powerful tactic of running effective volunteer Q&A sessions. Tobi discusses the goals of a good Q&A, including making volunteers feel heard, offering relevant information, and gathering valuable insights. She provides practical tips for conducting high-imp…

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111. New Volunteer Orientation: What to Include, What to Leave Out 24:32

4M ago24:32

24:32

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into the vital topic of new volunteer orientation. Tobi offers detailed insights on what to include and what to avoid, ensuring a successful onboarding process that fosters long-term commitment. She emphasizes the importance of addressing both informational and emotional needs of …

1
110. Using Psychographics to Improve Your Volunteer Recruitment Appeals 26:42

4M ago26:42

26:42

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi explores the use of psychographics over demographics in volunteer recruitment, emphasizing the importance of understanding prospective volunteers' beliefs, values, interests, and attitudes to create more effective marketing strategies. Tobi shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the power of ta…

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109. When a Scarcity Mentality Becomes a Habit 21:52

5M ago21:52

21:52

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, host Tobi Johnson discusses the widespread issue of scarcity mentality within the nonprofit sector and how it limits organizations' ability to grow and engage volunteers effectively. Tobi emphasizes that this mentality leads organizations to focus on constraints rather than opportunities, hindering i…

1
108. Definition of a Volunteer - Why It Matters to Be Precise 24:30

5M ago24:30

24:30

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson delves into the nuanced and often overlooked topic of clearly defining a volunteer and why it matters to be precise. Tobi shares insights into the definitions provided by various authoritative bodies like the Department of Labor in the U.S., the United Nations, and the implications for n…

1
107. Celebrating National Volunteer Week 2024! 30:45

5M ago30:45

30:45

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson celebrates National Volunteer Week 2024, and shares insights into the history and significance of volunteerism! Tobi also highlights the challenges facing the nonprofit sector, including a decline in donor contributions, a labor shortage crisis impacting mission delivery, and decreased v…

1
106. Smarter Volunteer Program Assessment 34:07

5M ago34:07

34:07

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson shares insightful tips on how to create smarter volunteer program assessments, without the need for expensive external consultants. Tobi discusses the importance of learning from assessments to grow volunteer programs and shares her step-by-step plan for performing a DIY program audit. T…

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105. 7 Habits of Highly Effective Volunteer Managers 21:34

6M ago21:34

21:34

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi explores the seven habits that make volunteer managers highly effective, inspired by Stephen Covey's famous book 'The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.' Tobi emphasizes the importance of mindset, setting healthy boundaries, strategic thinking, knowing your numbers, sharing the workload, d…

1
104. The WOW! Volunteer Experience 21:26

6M ago21:26

21:26

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the importance of providing a wow volunteer experience. She emphasizes that beyond traditional methods of appreciation, designing a well-run program plays a crucial role in volunteer satisfaction. Tobi also shares a personal story to illustrate the impact of outstanding service…

1
103. Win-Win Community Service Projects 34:43

6M ago34:43

34:43

In this episode of Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses how you can create win-win community service projects, and delves into the different types of community service, outlining effective strategies for designing quality projects, and maintaining good relationships with referring organizations. Tobi discusses the nuances of managing co…

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102. 3 Keys to an Irresistible Volunteer Offer 27:43

6M ago27:43

27:43

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi shares the 3 keys to an irresistible volunteer offer. Tobi highlights the need for organizations to align with the anticipatory and excited headspace of new volunteers, emphasizing the importance of adding to their experience rather than dampening it. Tobi stresses why organizations should be sh…

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101. Tap the Power of Psychological Contracts with Pam Kappelides 59:17

7M ago59:17

59:17

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi invites Pam Kappelides onto the show to talk about the power of psychological contracts and its critical importance in understanding and managing volunteer expectations within organizations. Their discussion uncovers how mismatches between volunteer expectations and their actual experiences can …

1
100. Fan Faves from 100 Volunteer Nation Episodes 40:13

7M ago40:13

40:13

In the 100th episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson takes a moment to reflect on the journey of creating 100 episodes since its start on April 11, 2022. To celebrate, Tobi revisits some of the past episodes, offering insights and highlights for new and long-time listeners alike. This milestone episode includes a special countdown of …

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99. Volunteer Retention Strategies - Two Big Mistakes 36:33

7M ago36:33

36:33

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation, Tobi discusses how non-profit organizations can utilize psychology for volunteer retention strategies. She explains the importance of using positive social proof and emotive communication to encourage volunteers to keep coming back. Tobi emphasizes the need to light up the brain by generating emotions, using…

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98. How to Meet Volunteer Needs with 7 Solid Pivots 31:57

7M ago31:57

31:57

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, Tobi Johnson discusses the crucial need for organizations to meet the needs of their volunteers in order to sustain their operations. Tobi addresses the common issue of dwindling volunteer engagement, exacerbated by the pandemic, warning that if change is not embraced, organizations risk losing even …

1
97. Transforming How We Lead Volunteers with Martin J Cowling 59:11

7M ago59:11

59:11

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast, host Tobi interviews global change management expert Martin J. Cowling. They discuss the transformative shifts happening in volunteer management, and the need for 21st-century organizations to rethink their approach to volunteers. Martin shares his insights on how organizations can better leverage th…

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96. Volunteer Work or Staff Position? How to Decide! 37:48

8M ago37:48

37:48

In this episode, Tobi discusses how organizations can decide whether a role should be a volunteer, or paid position. She discusses the key differences between volunteer work and paid roles in areas such as legal definitions, pay structures, motivations, behavior, roles, expertise and identity. Tobi also emphasizes that the decision must be strategi…

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95. 6 Ways to Immediately Boost Volunteer Signups 26:31

8M ago26:31

26:31

In this episode of the podcast, Tobi shares six tactical strategies to boost volunteer signups. These strategies involve diagnosing what's currently working and what's not, increasing the number of personal asks, tracking and radically decreasing response time. Tobi also delves into paid advertising and public service announcements to garner attent…

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94. How to Make the Shift from Doer to Nonprofit Leader with Patricia Gentry 1:06:18

8M ago1:06:18

1:06:18

In this episode, Tobi is joined by Patricia Gentry, who is the strategy advisor at VolunteerPro. They discuss the importance of moving from in-program work to strategic planning, focusing on the wider vision, the need to shift mindsets, and why building relationships, creating accountability, and cultivating self-reflection are key for leadership. …

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93. The 5 Phases of Successful Volunteer Coordination 29:51

8M ago29:51

29:51

In this episode, host Tobi examines the mode of operating a successful volunteer initiative. Highlighting the struggle to rebuild volunteer strength amid the pandemic, Tobi elaborates on the five phases that Volunteer Pro teaches: Envisioning the Future, Building the Foundation, Growing Engagement, Sustaining Involvement, and Scaling Leadership. To…

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92. How to Mobilize Volunteers by the Thousands with Dr. Chris Lambert 47:49

9M ago47:49

47:49

In this episode, host Tobi is joined by special guest Dr. Chris Lambert, CEO of Life Remodeled. Together, they dive into the transformative power of volunteerism, by working with communities, not for communities. They explore the grassroots to grass tops approach, sharing power, and educating volunteers about systemic root causes of community chall…

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91. 6 New Years Resolution Ideas for Nonprofits 29:55

9M ago29:55

29:55

It’s that time of the year, when people are setting goals and aspirations for the new year. In the spirit of intention setting and renewal, host Tobi Johnson shares some New Years resolution ideas for nonprofits in this episode, specifically about how they can better engage the community in their good works. From cultivating gratitude and setting h…

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90. Improving Volunteer Experiences & Raising More Funds with Kristina Carlson 46:08

9M ago46:08

46:08

In this episode, guest Kristina Joy Carlson and host Tobi Johnson share valuable insights on improving volunteer experiences through the power of the KIND method. From navigating turbulent times to cultivating deep commitment even in conflict, they offer practical strategies for nonprofit success and creating meaningful connections with volunteers …

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89. Strategic Volunteer Recruitment Ideas for 2024 44:21

9M ago44:21

44:21

Looking for fresh volunteer recruitment ideas? Look no further. In this episode, Volunteer Nation host Tobi Johnson provides practical tips and big ideas to attract and retain volunteers, drawing from volunteer experiences and the current landscape of volunteerism as reflected in comments of a recent Washington Post article. Tobi also addresses the…

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88. Research on Volunteer Participation What You Need to Know with Helen Tourle 51:59

10M ago51:59

51:59

In this episode, host Tobi Johnson sits down with special guest Helen Tourle, a senior consultant for volunteering at the National Council for Voluntary Organizations (NCVO). Together, they delve into the history of the Time Well Spent research series and findings of the most recent study, focusing on volunteer experiences among the global majority…

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87. Volunteer Research: Sector Trends & Our Latest Survey 31:39

10M ago31:39

31:39

In this episode, Tobi reviews the history and impact of the Volunteer Management Progress Report, a global state-of-the-industry survey spanning 9 years and encompassing insights from leaders of volunteers across 36 countries. She delves into key trends from past reports, the push for diversity, equity, and inclusion planning, correlations between …

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86. Converting Episodic Volunteers into Long-term Supporters 27:38

10M ago27:38

27:38

In this episode, host Tobi Johnson talks about the challenge of retaining episodic volunteers who step up to help during the holiday season but often disappear afterwards. Tobi shares a 4-part culture of commitment formula that sets the stage for deeper levels of commitment, discusses the importance of creating a purposeful onboarding plan even for…

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85. BIG Volunteer Goals for 2024 – Four Examples 26:30

10M ago26:30

26:30

In this Volunteer Nation host, Tobi Johnson, dives deep into the art of goal-setting. She shares practical tips and real-life examples to inspire and guide you in establishing meaningful and impactful volunteer goals for your charitable cause, membership, or movement. The episode is a must-listen, even if you didn't attend our recent VisionWeek str…

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84. Building an Inclusive Culture at Your Volunteer Organization with Advita Patel 59:18

10M ago59:18

59:18

Our host, Tobi, is joined by the incredible Advita Patel, an expert in internal communications and inclusive workplaces. Together, they discuss the challenges faced by the voluntary sector when it comes to building an inclusive culture and volunteer environment and unravel strategies to overcome them. From understanding knowledge gaps to fostering …

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83. Make the Most of Corporate Partnerships with Alyson Gallaher 1:01:11

11M ago1:01:11

1:01:11

In this episode, Tobi and guest Alyson Gallaher dive into the world of corporate-nonprofit collaborations. They shed light on the changing dynamics of corporate partnerships, emphasizing the importance of understanding community needs and advocating for change. They discuss the significance of demonstrating impact, preparing for successful partners…

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82. Nonprofit Strategic Planning for 2024 in 3 Simple Steps 44:37

11M ago44:37

44:37

The new year brings fresh possibilities and a clean slate - what will you do with it? Not sure? In this episode, Tobi shares how to create a vision for the future, backed up by clear blueprint for success with her signature READY, SET, GOTM nonprofit strategic planning process. She also invites listeners to ditch uncertainty and build a plan to cre…

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81. How Vol Services & Nonprofit Marketers Can Work Together with Kivi Leroux Miller 1:02:33

11M ago1:02:33

1:02:33

In this episode, sits down with Kivi Leroux Miller, an expert in nonprofit marketing to discuss the importance of collaboration between volunteer services and nonprofit marketers, offering practical insights and tactics for fostering effective partnerships. Tobi emphasizes the crucial role of marketing in volunteer recruitment and highlights the ne…

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80. A Sneak Peek of My New Book for Volunteer Leaders 30:44

11M ago30:44

30:44

In this episode, Tobi provides you with an exclusive sneak peek into the key concepts and insights shared in her upcoming book for volunteer leaders. Tobi shares her personal journey and insights from years of experience in the field. The book explores the vital role volunteer leaders play in building thriving communities and the significance of th…

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Amira Learning Podcasts

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