090: The Wisdom of a 14-Year-Old

090: The Wisdom of a 14-Year-Old

Author: Jess Birken, MNM, JD July 13, 2023 Duration: 20:25

It's me again--ready to challenge what you think you know about the nonprofit sector.

In this episode, I invite my guest - my 14-year-old - Max, to take a deep dive into the world of nonprofit boards. We're pulling back the curtain to reveal the roles of board members and officers, including the president, treasurer, and secretary. We also get into the nitty-gritty of the legal implications of compensating these folks. I promise you, this episode will not only feed your curiosity but will likely stir up some fresh thoughts about board dynamics. 

We also touch on the heart and soul of any successful nonprofit - effective communication and collaboration. We chat about decision-making processes and how vital every team member's input is. Max and I stress the need for clear policies and procedures - a magic key to navigating potential people problems and creating a good org culture. 

You're in for a treat as this isn't just a chat about nonprofits - it's about redefining how we perceive them.

In this episode, you will hear about:

  • The different roles within nonprofit boards(like the president, treasurer, and secretary) 
  • Why you shouldn't pay your board members 
  • Why you need clear policies and procedures 
  • How to include the entire board in discussions and how important it is that everyone feels heard
  • Some of the challenges of getting more diversity on nonprofit boards
  • Whether nonprofit board presidents can have a veto power 
  • Advice for creating solid policies and procedures for your nonprofit board

Resources from this Episode

Sign up for Birken Law Email list: https://birkenlaw.com/signup/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

The episode on Robert's Rules: https://birkenlaw.com/charity-therapy-podcast/join-me-on-my-soapbox/

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Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.


Ever find yourself wishing for a direct line to seasoned nonprofit leaders, a chance to unpack the real challenges that don’t make it into the glossy annual reports? Charity Therapy is that conversation. With host Jess Birken, who brings her background as a lawyer and a Master of Nonprofit Management to the table, each session feels like pulling up a chair with a trusted advisor. The discussions move beyond theory, tackling the granular details of operations that leaders actually face-whether it’s navigating a tricky IRS compliance question, rebuilding a fundraising strategy from the ground up, or managing the complex interpersonal dynamics that define any mission-driven team. This podcast digs into the operational heart of the sector, offering pragmatic insights you can apply directly to your own work. It’s a resource built on the understanding that running a nonprofit is a continuous practice of problem-solving, and Jess guides these explorations with clarity and a deep respect for the work. Tune in for honest dialogue that treats the daily grind of management as the serious and nuanced craft that it is.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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