Episode 56

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Published on:

19th Jul 2023

The Power of Passion and Empathy in Nonprofit Leadership

I had a bit of a revelation recently. I was talking to Justin Yaassoub, a man who knows a thing or two about leadership. It was one of those conversations that make you sit up and take notice. Justin went from a military background to the world of consulting and coaching, but not before experiencing a pivotal moment during a 300-kilometer canoe trip. Waking up cold, wet, and probably a tad miserable after a downpour, he saw one of his peers greet the day with unbridled positivity. That was a game-changer, a moment that embodied the power of controlling emotions and turning seemingly worst-case scenarios into positive experiences. A lesson about empathy, courage, and self-sacrifice that's stuck with him ever since.

Now, Justin is using that perspective to shape his leadership philosophy. He's all about authenticity, consistent behavior toward staff, and most importantly, setting conditions for their success, and ultimately, the success of the organization. And he's got a lot to share.

On The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, Justin shared some invaluable insights that can really shift the way you look at leadership. He talked about the profound impact of passion, empathy, courage, and self-sacrifice on leadership and reaching the zenith of perfection. He discussed the significance of self-awareness and inculcating healthy self-competition for enhancing personal growth and development. He also stressed how leading change with passion and a deep-seated sense of empathy can stir up powerful transformation and forge connections.

But that's not all.

He talked about the pivotal role of empathy and connection in leading effectively, underscoring that every endeavor boils down to human connection and how empathy fuels action and bravery. Especially in the not-for-profit sector, authenticity, and empathy are crucial. 

Justin's rich insights and unique approach to leadership might just be the catalyst you need to embrace your passion, embody empathy, and muster the courage to be an integral part of your leadership journey.


RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Intelligent Conversationalist: 31 Cheat Sheets That Will Show You How to Talk to Anyone About Anything, Anytime by Imogen Lloyd Webber

Western Canada Fundraising Conference

Tony Myers

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About the Podcast

The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast
Welcome to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast. I'm your host, Tammy Zonker, and I'm thrilled you're here.

I've spent nearly three decades specializing in major gifts. I’ve seen how major gifts often form the backbone of an organization’s financial stability, and yet, I know many of us find this area particularly challenging. Time and again, I’ve been approached by fundraisers and nonprofit leaders eager to establish or supercharge their major gift programs. It’s become crystal clear that there’s a growing hunger for training and expertise in this area.

I’ve had the incredible privilege of working with nonprofits from all around the world helping organizations collectively raise nearly one billion dollars. During this time, I’ve developed strategies and tools that have consistently helped organizations transition their mid-level donors into major donors through meaningful engagement. It’s a process that, when done consistently, can truly catapult an organization’s major gift fundraising to the next level.

Whether you’re a seasoned major gift officer looking to refine your approach, a development director aiming to build a powerhouse program, an executive director looking to scale your organization’s capacity for transformational giving, or a board member seeking to understand the transformative potential of major gifts, The Intentional Fundraiser podcast is your source for growth and excellence in major gift fundraising.

So, buckle up! We're about to embark on a journey to take your major gift program to the next level – and beyond. Let's get intentional about major gift fundraising!

Keep transforming,
Tammy Zonker
Major Gift Expert & Keynote Speaker
Fundraising Transformed

#ScaleRaiseDo

About your host

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Tammy Zonker

Hey, There! I’m Tammy Zonker.

I'm the Founder and President of Fundraising Transformed and host of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast.

I’ve been a major gifts strategist and fundraising expert for more than 25 years. I’m also a certified AFP Master Trainer and international speaker.

I’ve Led and trained thousands of nonprofit social service organizations, private schools, colleges and universities, and healthcare organizations to collectively raise more than a half-billion dollars — and counting — including a single gift of $27.1M.

I have served as adjunct faculty at Indiana University and technical editor for Wiley Publishing’s “Fundraising for Dummies” third edition.

I currently serve as Dean at the Institute for Charitable Giving, a member of the AFP International Conference Education Committee, a member of the Nonprofit Quarterly’s Editorial Advisory Board, a contributing writer to NonProfit PRO, and an advisor at Capital Campaign Pro.

I would love to learn more about the amazing work you do and explore how we can work together to take your fundraising to the next, next level.