Hope is more than a feel-good concept it’s the #1 thing your team needs from you. Learn what Gallup’s global research reveals and how leaders can foster real hope, even in challenging times.

What is the number one thing that gets missed when organizations plan for transformation or change?

Intentionally preparing your people managers to be the leaders you need them to be.

And before you say, “but that’s their job,” consider this: research shows nearly 70% of managers say they are uncomfortable communicating with employees. No qualifiers. Not in specific situations. Just in general.

On May 20, 2025, House Republicans introduced a major tax bill that has significant implications for the nonprofit sector. While much of the national conversation has focused on other aspects of the legislation, nonprofit leaders are raising urgent concerns about how it could damage the sector—creating instability, unfairly advantaging or disadvantaging different types of organizations, and putting critical services at risk.

“The grown-ups in the building need to feel they can succeed.”

When my husband, Steven LaFemina, started his career as a middle school teacher and administrator, this became one of his most important learnings about how schools run well—and a mantra that has guided his work with educators ever since.

I get asked sometimes if there’s one objective I’d recommend every organization include in its strategy.

My answer? Prioritize your people.

Before you say “Oh, that’s a given…” or “Isn’t that culture, not strategy?” or “No, I meant a strategic pillar or initiative…” — let’s cover some essential truths.

Some weeks are wilder than others. And in our house, those weeks almost always seem to line up with Spirit Week at the kids’ elementary school or a time when Steven or I are traveling for work.

This week had both those elements—plus:

• Annual checkups

• A sick kiddo home from school

• Important client conversations

• Managing a tough incident at a soccer practice

• Fabulous friend moments and catch-up calls with consulting colleagues

• And, just for fun, a raccoon who has decided to nest in our eaves.

When I train nonprofit leadership teams on leading change well or developing effective strategy, I make one request at the beginning of every session:

Choose one thing.

One thing that resonates with you. One thing you’ll commit to trying. One thing you’ll practice in your day-to-day work after the session is done.

You've already determined 2025's priorities, goals, plans, and budget.

I'm guessing you've already communicated them with everyone in your organization, too. (If not, let's talk.)

But even when those guidelines for what your org WILL focus on are communicated effectively, the things that thwart success are the unexpected - and often self-imposed - barriers created when those plans meet reality.

I rearranged my schedule yesterday to take my dog on his favorite walk through the woods for his 13th birthday.

For years I've joked that Pete is the most reliable member of Team LaFemina. He always meets or exceeds expectations. We can always count on his quiet love, steady presence, and enthusiastic tail. He is independent, happy, and such an easy team member to have around.

Since joining our team 11.5 years ago, he's had his role handled.

But I realized yesterday that I can't remember the last time I spent 2 hours with just him - seeing how he's doing, observing what he's interested in, considering where he still feels strong and where he's made some adaptations based on his current needs and strengths.

Nonprofit leaders - you've probably heard the phrase "culture eats strategy for breakfast." But that's not really accurate - because culture IS strategy.

In this episode of the Learning for Good podcast, my colleague Heather Burright and I discuss how culture influences organizational strategy and team performance, including how culture can be a strategic advantage for nonprofits looking to attract great talent, and the elements of culture & strategy that often get overlooked.

We also talk about 4 practical habits you and your organization can start today to build a healthy, thriving culture and a strategy that succeeds - leading to greater impact for the people you serve and the people who power your organization.