
The Just Be Cause Podcast
Katherine Lacefield
Check out our website: www.justbecause.consulting
Welcome to the Just Be Cause Podcast, a beacon of inspiration in the nonprofit space dedicated to exploring the intricate tapestry of causes that shape our world - from the animal kingdom to our environment, and ultimately, to us.
I'm Katherine Lacefield, your host, with two decades of experience navigating the nonprofit sector, with a special fondness for animal and environmental causes. Together, we'll delve into the heartening stories of nonprofits fearlessly bridging causes, share practical, hands-on advice on fundraising, and underline the critical role collaboration plays in any successful fundraiser.
The Just Be Cause Podcast is more than just a podcast; it's a movement challenging the scarcity mindset that's become all too common. It's about empowering nonprofits to reclaim their power, discover their true purpose, and use mindfulness to turn dream solutions into reality.
Join us on this transformative journey towards a more conscious philanthropy. Just Be Cause doing good, is the right thing to do.
Don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and share with fellow nonprofiteers who would benefit from the show. Do you have your own story to share?
Contact us for us to consider you as a guest on our show!
Thank you for being a part of this inspiring community. Until next time, continue to inspire and be inspired.
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Top 10 The Just Be Cause Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Just Be Cause Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Just Be Cause Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Just Be Cause Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

From Inner Voice to Vision: Harnessing Storytelling for Impactful Leadership with Nathan Cody Young
The Just Be Cause Podcast
12/18/24 • 52 min
Access the Just Be Cause Nonprofit Toolbox here 🧰!
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Hey, lovely listeners!
Tune into this captivating episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast, where we dive into the transformative power of storytelling with Nathan Cody Young, our esteemed guest. Discover why narratives aren't just bedtime tales but essential tools for memory, learning, and leadership.
Have you ever wondered how a simple story could change the world, one organization at a time?
We're unpacking how narrative leadership can inspire bold visions and foster positive internal dialogues. From sharing personal growth journeys to leveraging tales for impactful fundraising, Nathan and our host Katherine guide us through redefining credibility and courage. Are you ready to challenge perfectionism in the nonprofit world and embrace a more humane approach to leadership?
Join us for an inspiring, fun, and enlightening conversation that's set to revolutionize your storytelling prowess and organizational strategy!
More about Nathan Cody Young
Nathan Young is the owner and founder of StoryCulture Consulting. For over twelve years, he’s been helping leaders, teams, and organizations harness the power of storytelling to connect, inspire, and lead the narrative.
His work focuses on how personal and organizational stories shape identity and create influence, guiding leaders to craft narratives that resonate, inspire, build meaningful connections, and drive change.
He has worked with organizations such as Brookings, TEDx, Save the Children, WorldVision International, the Alzheimer's Association, the YMCA, the University of California San Diego, Indiana University, and many others.
By blending storytelling with leadership, communication, and team-building strategies, Nathan empowers individuals to discover their most compelling stories and use them to build trust, foster engagement, and inspire action. His workshops and coaching provide practical tools for leading with confidence, communicating with impact, and fostering deeper connections through the stories that matter most.
https://storycultureconsulting.com/
Resources mentioned during the show:
"Find Your Why" by Simon Sinek: A resource used by Nathan for helping leaders identify key life stories and develop purpose and value statements.
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Tips for Nonprofits: Preparing for a Successful Peer-to-Peer Campaign Launch
The Just Be Cause Podcast
08/13/24 • 23 min
Hey there nonprofiteers!
Have you ever wondered why some fundraising campaigns fall flat while others go viral? Or maybe you're curious about the power of influencers and matching gifts in boosting campaign success?
In this latest episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast, I will take you on a ride packed with insider insights on how to best prepare for your next peer-to-peer campaigns. No more failed objectives or missed opportunities— I will spill the beans on the top five tips to nail your peer-to-peer campaign.
Get your notepad ready as I share my key tips behind identifying ambassadors, setting motivating objectives, and organizing a rally that'll fire up your campaign team.
Get ready to plan your next peer-to-peer campaign and bring your nonprofit work to new heights. Tune in for an inspiring and practical guide that will leave you feeling ready to conquer your year-end peer-to-peer campaign. So, are you ready to level up your game?
You won't want to miss this, as year-end is just around the corner!
Book your free Peer-to-peer assessment here--
Recommended resources:
Donor Dock: Your best Stewardship Assistant CRM
Appsumo: Goldmine of cheap lifetime deals on nonprofit tools
Acadium: Digital marketing apprenticeships to increase your impact and reach
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Navigating Parental Leave in your Nonprofit: How to Ensure a Smooth Transition for All
The Just Be Cause Podcast
10/22/24 • 34 min
Access the Just Be Cause Nonprofit Toolbox here 🧰!
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Hey, wonderful listeners!
We're thrilled to have you join us for this compelling episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast, as we sit down with the insightful Lacey Kempinski. Dive into the world of nonprofit organizations and the often-unspoken challenges of managing parental and caregiver leaves. How can embracing change turn challenges into growth opportunities within your organization?
Discover the secrets to maintaining efficiency with the support of external consultants and coaches, and learn how to celebrate parental leave as a positive, transformational experience. We'll unravel the complexities of turnover costs and the true value of sustainable workload management, and explore the impact of effective planning when an employee steps away.
We will cover:
- How prioritized planning can transform your organization's dynamics.
- The financial and organizational cost of turnover.
- How turnover, mentorship, and mission alignment intersect.
- The strategies you can use to make a parental leave as stress free for everyone involved.
Join us for an inspiring and insightful conversation that promises to provide valuable perspectives and actionable tools for nonprofits striving for positive impact and well-being.
Let's navigate these intriguing discussions and empower your organization to thrive!
Where to find Lacey Kempinski :
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceykempinski/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/balanced-good/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/balancedgood/
Website:
Home - balanced good.
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Podcasthon Special Episode: How Faunalytics Empowers Animal Advocacy with Data
The Just Be Cause Podcast
03/17/25 • 32 min
Hello, amazing listeners!
Buckle up for a special episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast for Podcasthon featuring Andrea Polanco from Faunalytics! Dive into the power of data-backed advocacy tactics and nonprofit research and discover how this can transform the landscape for nonprofits.
Ever wondered how effective those gripping animal advocacy tactics really are? Or the truth behind pay gaps in animal protection movements? Or why some groups do not join the animal movement?
Andrea, with her unique journey from animal welfare scientist to passionate advocate, spills the beans on how Faunalytics is helping advocates turn data into action. From impactful insights on animal welfare's role in advocacy to eye-opening studies on diversity, this conversation reveals the challenges and opportunities in making the movement more inclusive.
Join us for a journey into the heart of how research can empower change, unite various causes, and truly make strides towards a more compassionate world. Are you ready to be inspired and informed? Tune in for an episode that’s both thought-provoking and enlightening!
Show resources and links
- Report on the impact of animal advocacy tactics on people’s animal product consumption
- Report on salaries & pay gaps in the farmed animal advocacy movement
- Report on animal advocacy retention
- Faunalytics Office hours
Social media
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Turning Opposition into Opportunity: Diplomatic Tactics for Nonprofit Leaders with Morgan DeNicola
The Just Be Cause Podcast
04/07/25 • 41 min
Hey, lovely listeners!
Join us for an engaging episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast as we dive into the world of diplomacy with Morgan DeNicola, the executive director of the DeNicola Family Foundation.
Navigate the often tumultuous waters of philanthropy and nonprofit work to uncover the power of diplomacy in driving meaningful social change.
Can understanding and respect truly bridge the divide in an increasingly polarized world?
Morgan shares real-life experiences, from advocating in international embassies to fostering dialogue on global issues. Discover how cultural diplomacy and mindfulness can unite diverse stakeholders and explore the transformative potential of engaging in conversations with an open mind and respect.
How do we break down barriers and build a more inclusive world?
Tune in for a conversation brimming with insights, inspiring stories, and actionable tactics, as we uncover how diplomacy isn't just a tool but a must in today's complex world.
The DeNicola Family Foundation
Get in touch with Morgan DeNicola
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

The Power of Partnerships in Global Development with Gretchen Villegas
The Just Be Cause Podcast
02/05/25 • 44 min
Access the Just Be Cause Nonprofit Toolbox here 🧰!
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Hey friends!
Prepare to be inspired by our captivating conversation with Gretchen Villegas in this episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast. Dive into the dynamic world of global development and discover how Gretchen's journey from the Peace Corps to founding Nexus Strategy and Growth Partners is reshaping the nonprofit sector.
We'll explore transformative partnerships that break away from traditional models and work towards sustainable social impact.
- How can creativity in collaboration unlock unprecedented potential?
- What role do corporations play beyond just financial sponsorship?
Discover concrete examples of innovative projects, like tackling biosecurity challenges for farmers across different continents, and learn how nonprofits can leverage partnerships for greater fundraising success.
Join us as we unravel the intricacies of interconnectedness, challenge conventional thinking, and uncover strategies for maximizing positive change in communities worldwide.
Get ready for a thought-provoking and uplifting episode!
Connect with Gretchen:
Nexus Strategy and Growth Partners
Resources mentioned in the show:
- HumanKind: A Hopeful History, by Rutger Bregman
- Episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast with the Scale Collaborative
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Passion Isn't Enough: Practical Advice for Emerging Nonprofit Leaders with David Rhode
The Just Be Cause Podcast
04/10/25 • 40 min
Hello, wonderful listeners!
Tune in to this exciting episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast, where we're diving into the dynamic world of nonprofit leadership with David Rhode. Discover the compelling story behind David's journey from the corporate sector to championing nonprofit causes, marked by his transformative work with the Pitch In for Baseball and Softball organization. We'll discuss his insightful book, "Passion Isn't Enough," and why sheer enthusiasm is only the beginning of nonprofit success.
This episode poses crucial questions: How can aspiring nonprofit leaders ensure they're truly prepared to launch and sustain impactful organizations? What are the big three essentials for thriving in the nonprofit sector—strategic planning, board engagement, and fundraising—and how can you master them? Engage with us as we explore the art of forming meaningful partnerships, the secrets to hiring effectively, and how building a cohesive nonprofit community can transform your leadership journey.
Join us for a lively and inspiring conversation that promises to equip you with the wisdom and practical tools to elevate your nonprofit aspirations. Let’s revolutionize philanthropy, just because it’s the right thing to do!
Relevant links
- David Rhode's book: "Passion Isn't Enough"
- The Nonprofit Hive
- Find David Rhode on Linkedin
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Harnessing Mindfulness for Burnout Prevention in the Nonprofit Sector with Megan Whitney
The Just Be Cause Podcast
07/25/24 • 59 min
Hey there, compassionate changemakers!
In this episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast, we're diving into the world of nonprofit work with Megan Whitney, an expert in mindfulness and fundraising. Megan shares her personal journey from working in hunger relief at Feeding America to becoming a mindfulness coach supporting women in nonprofits. Together, we explore the transformative power of self-compassion, mindfulness, and loving-kindness meditation in the nonprofit sector.
Have you ever wondered how practicing mindfulness can prevent burnout and support diversity, equity, and inclusion in fundraising? How can strength-based messaging create positive change in donor relations and community engagement?
Join us in this inspiring and insightful conversation as we uncover the untold potential of mindfulness, learn about empowering language in fundraising, and explore the profound impact of recognizing and appreciating the strengths in others.
Get ready to be inspired and uplifted!
Recommended Tools:
Riverside: The best alternative to Zoom for quality virtual recordings
Donor Dock: Your best Stewardship Assistant CRM
Flodesk: Your link to get 50% off your first year of beautiful emails
Acadium: Digital marketing apprenticeships to increase your impact and reach
Appsumo: Goldmine of cheap lifetime deals on nonprofit tools
More about Megan:
Since burning out a decade ago, Megan Whitney's mission has been preventing the same exhaustion for others working in nonprofits. She leads a mindfulness community and coaches changemakers to build peaceful, healthy lives — for themselves and others.
At Feeding America, Megan has spent the past seven years fighting hunger as a fundraiser, fundraising consultant, and meditation teacher.
She lives in Chicago and loves taking walks by Lake Michigan, making fresh pasta with her niece, and enjoying the city’s stellar stand-up comedy scene.
Connect with Megan on LinkedIn
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Keeping Families Together: The Link Between Human and Animal Well-being with Kathy Powelson of Paws for Hope
The Just Be Cause Podcast
05/06/24 • 43 min
Learn more about Just Be Cause Consulting here: www.justbecause.consulting
Sign up to the Just Be Cause Nonprofit Nuggets Newsletter here
Hey, lovely listeners!
Get ready for an enlightening chat with Kathy Powelson on this episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast. We're delving into the inspiring journey of Pause for Hope, an innovative animal organization that began by providing free veterinary care for pets of unhoused folks, and has since evolved to offer crucial support for both animals and their human companions.
Throughout the conversation, we'll explore the deep bond between human and animal well-being, using real-life examples from Kathy's work. From the heartwarming story of assisting a woman fleeing domestic violence by finding foster care for her pets to the impactful programs that connect foster children with animals in need, we'll uncover the profound connections between social services and animal welfare.
Join us as we navigate the complexities of supporting families in crisis, the challenges faced by low-income pet owners, and the vital role of philanthropy in creating a more compassionate world for both humans and our furry friends.
Get ready for a thought-provoking and uplifting episode!
This episode was recorded with Riverside, which records high-quality video and audio and allows for easy publication. We highly recommend checking them out:
Check out Riverside hereRessources
Connect with Kathy on Linkedin: Kathy Powelson
Paws for Hope
Website: Paws for Hope
Linkedin: Paws for Hope
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!

Rethinking Nonprofit Funding: Innovative Strategies for Lasting Impact
The Just Be Cause Podcast
11/20/24 • 54 min
Access the Just Be Cause Nonprofit Toolbox here 🧰!
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Hey, wonderful listeners!
Dive into this eye-opening episode with Stephanie Jacobs on the Just Be Cause Podcast. We're unraveling the intricate world of nonprofit revenue diversification with the help of Scale Collaborative’s innovative approach. Could adopting entrepreneurial strategies be the game-changer your nonprofit has been waiting for?
Join us as we explore the shift from traditional fundraising to creative revenue strategies that align with your mission and amplify social impact. Discover real-life success stories like turning a moving service into a trauma-informed job opportunity or launching social enterprises from existing businesses. Are you curious about how strategic partnerships and innovative fee-for-service models can underpin financial sustainability?
This episode is packed with practical insights, touching on everything from asset sharing to cultivating invaluable relationships with funders. Perfect for those ready to challenge misconceptions, enhance their nonprofit’s resilience, and make a difference with mindful financial choices.
Gear up for a truly inspiring and insightful listen!
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Applications are now open for the Thriving Non-Profits Spring 2025 cohort.
This innovative, five-month program brings nonprofit leaders together to challenge beliefs about nonprofit fundraising and learn tangible strategies to increase resources. Participants come away with a whole new mindset and a revenue diversification action plan they can start using right away.
Learn more and apply here or reach out if you have any questions!
The Thriving Non-Profits Self-Paced Program offers the same comprehensive content as our cohort program, available in a flexible, online format. Learners can access the platform for a full year and access the content at their own pace. Self-paced learners get 3-months of free access to the Thriving Non-Profits Community Forum, where they can connect with like-minded leaders, access valuable resources, and gain ongoing support from program coaches and experts.
Use the code JUSTBECAUSE for a 20% discount on our Self-Paced course.
Stephanie Jacobs is the Program Coordinator for the Thriving Non-Profits
Meet your fundraising expert
Thanks for listening to Just Be Cause Podcast! I'm Katherine Lacefield the founder and head consultant of Just Be Cause Consulting.
My goal is to partner with YOU nonprofits and philanthropic organizations to help you make a positive impact in your community.
With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors, I help organizations optimize their operations with key knowledge in various domains, such as fundraising strategy, grantmaking research, communications, and development.
Sign up to my newsletter, The Nonprofit Nuggets for FREE fundraising advice, tools and guidance!
Sign me up!
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FAQ
How many episodes does The Just Be Cause Podcast have?
The Just Be Cause Podcast currently has 26 episodes available.
What topics does The Just Be Cause Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Non-Profit, Environment, Nonprofit, Podcasts, Consciousness, Business, Philanthropy and Fundraising.
What is the most popular episode on The Just Be Cause Podcast?
The episode title 'Embracing Mutual Rescue: Connecting Human and Animal Stories with Carol Novello' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Just Be Cause Podcast?
The average episode length on The Just Be Cause Podcast is 37 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Just Be Cause Podcast released?
Episodes of The Just Be Cause Podcast are typically released every 13 days, 22 hours.
When was the first episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast?
The first episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast was released on Apr 28, 2024.
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