On this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are diving headfirst into the tricky world of nonprofit boards.

You're not alone if you've ever wondered why your board seems more like a roadblock than a support system. We've got a juicy listener question from someone stuck with a board that feels more like a nagging boss than a helpful partner. Can you just ditch the board entirely? Spoiler alert: it’s not that simple, but we're here to help you navigate these murky waters.

Meghan and I unravel the tangled web of board-staff dynamics. We know how frustrating it can be when board members overstep, adding more to your to-do list than you can handle. We’ll chat about the board’s legal duties (in the least boring way possible) and why they can’t just sign them away. Plus, we’ll offer real-world tips on how executive directors can manage these board relations better, ensuring everyone stays in their lane. And yes, we’ll even sprinkle in a bit of Oxford comma drama just to keep things interesting.

Whether you’re an ED who feels like you're juggling flaming torches or a staff member wishing for a little more autonomy, this episode is for you. We'll explore practical solutions like board training and third-party mediation to help smooth things out. Tune in, laugh with us, and maybe learn how to gently nudge your board in the right direction. And if all else fails, feel free to share this episode with a board member who could use a hint!

• Nonprofit boards: the captain's role, steering missions. Can a weak board be ousted?

• Drama alert: Board overreach vs. staff independence. Legal duties demand balance.

• Board-staff tension eases with a playful Oxford comma debate. Spicy grammar wars!

• Boards that delegate too much. Chasing resume clout, not nonprofit passion.

• Tips for executive directors: Manage board expectations and set boundaries. No more random tasks!

• Board-staff tensions? Training and a neutral party can help clear the air.

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

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

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

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.

In this episode of Charity Therapy, my co-host Meghan and I are answering one of the top questions we get - what happens while an org’s nonprofit tax exempt status is pending?

We know that the IRS application process for 501(c)(3) status can feel like climbing a mountain in flip-flops, so we're here to break it down for you. We'll chat about the differences between the 1023-EZ form and the full 1023, and give you the lowdown on processing times and eligibility requirements. Plus, we'll answer a listener's burning question about whether you should wait for IRS approval before getting your nonprofit up and running. Spoiler alert: you don't have to just twiddle your thumbs!

But let's be real, starting a nonprofit isn't just about paperwork. It's about passion, community, and making a difference. We'll share some laughs and maybe a few zany stories as we explore the importance of community support in spreading your nonprofit's mission. We'll also talk about how you can start building those vital connections and getting things moving, even while you're waiting for that IRS letter to show up in your mailbox.

Finally, we'd love for you to join our growing community. Share this episode with your friends, hit that subscribe button, and don't forget to rate and review us. It really helps more people find us and get the support they need. And hey, if you've got a story or a question, reach out to us online. We're eager to hear from you and keep this conversation going. Thanks for being part of our journey into the world of nonprofits—you're not alone in this, and we're cheering you on every step of the way!

• The real differences between the 1023-EZ and the full 1023 form—quick snack vs. full-course meal for your nonprofit!

• How long it’ll take for the IRS to review your application

• What you can and can’t do after you file the application

• How to stay out of trouble before your letter comes in the mail

• What to tell donors when you’ve applied but haven’t gotten your status yet

Check out Next in Nonprofits: www.nextinnonprofits.com

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

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

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.

Have you ever tried to open a bank account for your 501(c)(3) and felt like you were navigating a never-ending maze? Well, you're not alone!

In this episode of Charity Therapy, Meghan and I are here to make that process a whole lot simpler. We’re breaking down the essential steps, from getting all your paperwork in order to avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re a pro or just getting your nonprofit boots on, this chat will leave you feeling ready to confidently tackle your nonprofit’s finances.

We dive into a listener's tricky situation about starting a new chapter of a 501(c)(3) and the hurdles they’ve faced with getting a bank account. Spoiler alert: sometimes the national organization isn’t being unhelpful—they might just be following the rules! With a mix of legal insights and real-world stories, we’ll explain why proper authorization is crucial and how to ensure you’re not accidentally breaking any rules.

By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly what steps to take to open that nonprofit bank account the right way.

• The must-do steps for setting up a nonprofit bank account, from getting incorporated to gathering all the necessary paperwork

• A listener's struggle with opening a bank account for a new chapter of a 501(c)(3)

• Why having the proper authorization is crucial

• The common mistakes people make when setting up nonprofit bank accounts and how to avoid them

• The lowdown on how different nonprofit structures (like chapters and affiliates) affect your banking options

• Learn why opening a secret bank account is a terrible idea, even if you have the best intentions

Learn about nonprofit chapters & affiliates: birkenlaw.com/charity-therapy-podcast/ct097

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

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/birkenlaw

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

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.