Hear from smart nonprofit leader, Wendy Copeland from Goodwill Industries International.

Part of our Smart Nonprofit Leaders interview series, I had a lovely conversation with Carlos Santini, an energetic colleague in the afterschool and youth development field. In his leadership, Carlos draws upon lessons from his mentor and is now embracing his role as a way to share his own experiences with the field.

In his leadership, Jason Whyte combines heartfelt commitment with a mindset toward innovation—always asking: how can we do this better? Jason is the Director of Partnership Strategy at the Latino Coalition for Community Leadership and has recently launched the National Reentry Workforce Collaborative the only national organization founded by workforce practitioners committed to advancing socio-economic mobility for people impacted by the justice system.

I had such an inspiring and enjoyable conversation with Karen Peterson from the National Girls Collaborative Project. As a smart nonprofit leader, Karen listens closely to her team and has taken flexibility to the next level. She finds ways to ensure each and every person has what they need to be successful with their work. And it pays off! The NGCP team supports networks of networks across the country with the same care and attention they experience at the national office.

What a fun, upbeat conversation with the “tenaciously optimistic” Meg Pitman from Boys and Girls Clubs of America. As a smart nonprofit leader, Meg rejects hierarchical team structures and has gone all-in with a flat leadership style. It has paid off! Meg and team are making a lasting impact with quality youth development initiatives.

It is always a pleasure to speak with Shawna Rosenzweig from Camp Fire, a relentless leader in her pursuit of equity and justice. In our conversation, Shawna reflected on her personal journey leading nonprofit, youth development organizations. She returned again and again to the key to success and a renewable source of energy for her: relationships.

What a joy to speak with Penn Sheppard from Girls Inc. Driven by passion, Penn has led girl-centered nonprofit work for 40 years. In our interview, she shares her core philosophies that have kept her motivated and making an impact over time. She also discusses the key to navigating the toughest challenge she’s faced: navigating change.