The Art of Unlearning: Rethinking Nonprofit Leadership

The Art of Unlearning: Rethinking Nonprofit Leadership

Author: Katie Spencer April 29, 2025 Duration: 1:06:39

What do nonprofit leaders need to unlearn to move forward? In this lively and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Ruth Abigail Gardner—Executive Director of AngelStreet Ministries and host of The Unlearnt Podcast—to dig into the habits, beliefs, and expectations that no longer serve us (and maybe never did).


We talk about the obvious stuff (like perfectionism and over-functioning), but we also get into some trickier, more taboo territory. It’s a fun, honest conversation full of real talk about what it actually takes to lead well in today’s nonprofit world—and what we might need to let go of to do it.


Ruth Abigail brings energy, wisdom, and humor, and she isn’t afraid to think out loud about her own leadership journey and the sector as a whole. You’ll walk away reflecting on your own “unlearning list.”


To hear more from Ruth Abigail Gardner, listen to the Unlearnt Podcast! And also, check out the work that Angel Street does by visiting their site or on social media @angelstreetmemphis! 


Katie Spencer has spent more than fifteen years working inside the non-profit world, and she’s familiar with the unique frustrations that can leave even the most passionate leaders feeling stalled. In her Next Era Non-Profit podcast, she moves beyond abstract theory to tackle the very real, systemic habits that hold organizations back from their full potential. Each conversation is built on a simple, powerful idea: creating greater social impact shouldn’t come at the cost of burning out your team or yourself. Instead, Katie focuses on practical, manageable shifts that leaders can implement without adding more chaos to an already demanding role. You’ll hear honest discussions about operational pitfalls, funding myths, and the cultural changes that can unlock a new chapter of effectiveness. This isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter, with clarity and strategy. Tune in for grounded advice that translates directly into daily practice, helping you achieve more meaningful results while actually reclaiming some sanity in the process. The aim is to make the path forward feel less daunting and more doable, one actionable step at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 25

Next Era Non-Profit
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