What does it look like to use data not just to report, but to change outcomes at a national scale?

In this episode of the Common Good Data Podcast, Roger and I are joined by Michelle Dunivan, Senior Director of Insights and Analytics at Best Friends Animal Society. Michelle shares how Best Friends uses data, partnerships, and trust-building to advance its bold mission of making the entire United States a no-kill nation.

What does it actually take to lead well in 2026—especially when resources are tight, expectations are high, and the work is complex?

In this solo episode of the Common Good Data Podcast, I share three practical, leadership-level moves nonprofit and social sector leaders can make this year to strengthen impact and make data work for you (instead of becoming another burden).

You’ll hear a clear framework you can apply immediately—whether you’re leading a team, reporting to funders, or trying to get out from under data overload.

In this special year-end episode of the Common Good Data Podcast, I share 12 evaluation reflections for the new year, inspired by The 12 Days of Christmas. As we wrap up the year, I wanted to slow things down and reflect on what I’ve been learning and what I hope to carry into my data and evaluation work in 2026.

Throughout the episode, I talk about why it’s so important to rediscover your “why”, listen before measuring, and simplify your data practices so they actually support your mission instead of overwhelming your team. I also reflect on the balance between stories and statistics, and why meaningful evaluation always needs both to truly communicate impact.

I share thoughts on prioritizing data use over data collection, approaching evaluation as a learner rather than a prover, and re-centering equity by sharing power in how we define success. Along the way, I emphasize building relationships around data, celebrating small wins, and investing in your team’s capacity so evaluation becomes a source of learning and growth — not frustration.

I close the episode with a reminder to lead with hope. Even in a challenging year, evaluation can help us make sense of change, stay grounded in purpose, and imagine what’s possible as we move into the year ahead.

How do you build real, lasting relationships with funders — the kind that go beyond the grant cycle?

In this episode of the Common Good Data Podcast, host Drew Reynolds sits down with Bill Crouch, President of BrightDot Fundraising Advisors, to talk about the human side of fundraising. Bill shares why fundraising is not just about money — it’s about meaning, trust, and impact.

Together, they unpack what it looks like to connect authentically with funders, align your mission with donor purpose, and communicate the difference your work truly makes. You’ll also hear practical advice on how to approach funder conversations, sustain relationships, and bridge the gap between impact and investment.

Sometimes it’s not about doing something new, it’s about doing what you do - even better.

This podcast episode focuses on the importance of maintaining an impact mindset as a nonprofit leader. Drew discusses why it’s important to avoid the temptation of novelty for novelty’s sake and make sure that impact drives the work of nonprofit and public-sector organizations. Drew identifies three traits of impactful nonprofit leaders and shares examples of how these leaders can apply an impact mindset into planning and decision-making.

In this episode, listeners will learn about three traits of highly impactful nonprofit leaders:

• Impactful leaders know: It’s not about them.

• Impactful leaders have a north star.

• Impactful leaders align what they’re good at with what the community needs.

Check out our recent blog post related to this podcast topic, 3 Traits of impactful nonprofit leaders.