Episode Details

In this inspiring episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson celebrates International Volunteer Managers Day with special guest Nicole Smith, Executive Director of Alive. Together, they dive into this year’s powerful theme — “Be Bold and Make Change.” 

Nicole brings a wealth of experience and insight to the conversation, sharing what it really takes to lead boldly in today’s volunteer management landscape. From strategic advocacy and clear communication to accountability and continuous improvement, she offers practical wisdom for leaders who want to make a lasting impact. 

Tobi and Nicole also get real about common challenges like imposter syndrome, the importance of self-care, and how to manage upward effectively within organizations. 

Full show notes: 187. Bold Leadership – Celebrating IVMDay with Nicole Smith 

IVMDay - Episode Highlights 

• [00:29] - Celebrating International Volunteer Managers Day 
• [02:32] - The Importance of Bold Leadership 
• [06:42] - Challenges and Ethical Considerations in Volunteerism 
• [14:47] - Nicole's Journey into Volunteer Management 
• [23:56] - Calculated Risks and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 
• [32:14] - Reflecting on Past Achievements 
• [36:20] - Managing Upward and Advocating for Volunteers 
• [41:35] - Skills for Bold Leadership 
• [46:44] - The Importance of Strategic Planning 
• [52:53] - Delegation and Self-Reflection 

Helpful Links 

• VisionWeek 2026 
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #136: Getting Back to Neighboring with Breauna Dorelus  
• Volunteer Nation Episode #101: Tap the Power of Psychological Contracts with Pam Kappelides 
• Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection Book 
• Leadership and Self-Deception: The Secret to Transforming Relationships and Unleashing Results, 4th Edition Book  
• Points of Light Making Purpose Possible Initiative  
• Global International Volunteer Managers Day Site  
• ALIVE International Volunteer Managers Day Page (with playlist!) 
• AL!VE National Summit on Volunteer Engagement 
• Find Nicole on LinkedIn  

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Featuring three events across four showtimes, including:

• Hidden Opportunities for Volunteer-Fueled Organizations
• 5 Essential Pillars to Finding & Keeping Committed Volunteers
• What I Wish I Had Known When I Started Leading Volunteers

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Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.  

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or que