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SUMMARY

When nonprofit leaders say their board is disengaged, Katie Spencer argues the real issue is usually clarity, not commitment. Executives want board members to show up, follow through, and be proactive — but many board members are thinking, "I don't know what my job is." Katie explains why more emails and more asks don't solve the problem. Instead, she recommends an intentional reset: get explicit about what the board's role is right now, co-create the board's work plan for the next 12 to 24 months, and put an accountability system in place. She also stresses early engagement — giving new board members a meaningful quick win within the first 30 days — and reframes fundraising expectations so board members can contribute without feeling like professional fundraisers.

ABOUT KATIE

Katie Spencer is the Founder of Zipline Consulting, where she helps nonprofit boards and executive teams strengthen governance, clarify roles, and build more effective partnerships. She brings 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including national work with Boys and Girls Clubs of America, and more than a decade as a consultant. With training in cultural anthropology, Katie brings a systems lens to board dynamics.

EPISODE RESOURCES

• Zipline Consulting
• Katie Spencer on LinkedIn
• Book: Ask Like a Leader by Lauren Reedy