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Leadership Matters

VoiceAmerica

Leadership Matters, the forum of choice for current and emerging public and nonprofit leaders. Dr. Sheryl White and Guest Co-Host Dr. Undraye Howard, along with their guests, explore practical tips for issues management, human capital strategies, and improving leadership effectiveness. Leadership Matters, your forum for Informing Leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Location:

SanDiego, CA

Networks:

VoiceAmerica

Description:

Leadership Matters, the forum of choice for current and emerging public and nonprofit leaders. Dr. Sheryl White and Guest Co-Host Dr. Undraye Howard, along with their guests, explore practical tips for issues management, human capital strategies, and improving leadership effectiveness. Leadership Matters, your forum for Informing Leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Twitter:

@Sheryl_Gee

Language:

English

Contact:

5660 Copley Drive San Diego, CA, 92111 (858) 244-8264


Episodes
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Passing the Torch: Mastering Succession Planning

11/5/2025
Succession planning is a rich topic that touches on leadership, legacy, strategy, and organizational resilience. In this episode, we dive into the critical yet often overlooked process of succession planning. Whether you are an executive, team leader, organizational effectiveness or human resources professional, preparing for leadership and other key role transitions is essential for long-term success. We will explore strategies to identify future leaders, mitigate risk, and ensure business continuity—plus examples of what works (and what doesn't). Tune in to learn how to build a legacy that lasts. Don't miss Leadership Matters with the People's Doctors: Informing leaders. Inspiring solutions!

Duration:00:57:13

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Finding Funding—Making a Way Out of No Way!

10/22/2025
Like a car without gas, a mission without funding typically is not going too far. Seeing one’s way forward when traditional revenue streams seem to be vanishing can feel daunting. Tune in for our discussion with Wendy McKinney a mission-driven executive, former chief development officer, author, co-pastor, and trusted leader in business, nonprofits, and ministry to explore creative options and ways nonprofits and businesses from all sectors are faced with shifting their thinking and fund development efforts. Discover new possibilities for “finding funding” to continue advancing your organization’s vision—making a positive impact. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors: Informing leaders. Inspiring solutions!

Duration:01:00:14

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Keeping the Doors Open: Sustaining Nonprofits through Funding, Partnerships, and Mergers

10/15/2025
Join us as we continue this month’s series on “Keeping the Doors Open” with special guest John P. Lydon - Director of Strategic Projects/CEO Emeritus – Auberle/Ward Home/Pauline Auberle Foundation John has decades of experience practicing civil law in Pennsylvania’s federal and state courts—as well as the Supreme Court of the United States—he has represented everyone from local businesses to major insurance carriers and government agencies. Beyond the courtroom, John brought communities together by organizing municipal consortiums and serving on a range of nonprofit boards. Currently, he is Chair of the Board Governance Committee for Footbridge for Families. John was also adjunct professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where he taught University approved pre-trial practice and pleading seminars for third year students. John also led two major organizations as CEO: Auberle & the Pauline Auberle Foundation and Ward Home, Inc. Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard—Informing leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:01:05:11

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Keeping the Doors Open

10/8/2025
This October, join us as we dive deep into the critical world of nonprofit strategic partnerships. In an era of tightening budgets and fierce competition for donor dollars, nonprofits are reimagining survival—and thriving—through mergers, acquisitions, and innovative collaborations that strengthen their missions without compromising their values. This week we welcome special guest Mary Mulliet, President and CEO, Battle Creek Community Foundation as we explore the delicate balance of preserving organizational identity while pursuing strategic alliances, explore how to maintain donor confidence during transitions, and tackle the real-world challenges of cultural integration and regulatory compliance. From breakthrough partnership models to cautionary tales, we're asking the questions that matter: What does a successful nonprofit collaboration really look like? What are the red flags organizations should watch for? And ultimately—how do nonprofits not just keep the doors open, but position themselves to make an even greater impact in their communities? Whether you're a nonprofit leader considering a strategic partnership or simply passionate about the future of the sector, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Duration:00:58:24

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Encore - Being Hired and Held Accountable: An ED/CEO’s Guide to Board Relationships

10/2/2025
What's it really like to be hired by a nonprofit board, and then work under their ongoing oversight and evaluation? In this candid conversation, we sit down with an experienced Executive Director to explore the unique dynamics of leading an organization while being accountable to a volunteer board. Matt Obert is President and CEO of Chaddock, an internationally recognized leader in trauma and attachment-based services for children and families shares personal insights into the hiring process from the candidate's perspective - from understanding what boards are really looking for to navigating the interview process with multiple stakeholders. We'll hear about the reality of annual performance reviews, how to build trust with board members who may not fully understand day-to-day operations, and the art of keeping boards engaged without overwhelming them. This conversation covers the challenges many EDs face: managing up to a board while leading down to staff, handling performance feedback from volunteers, and maintaining your leadership authority while staying accountable. We'll discuss how to work effectively with board chairs, navigate difficult board dynamics, and advocate for the resources and support you need to succeed. Whether you're an aspiring nonprofit leader wondering what executive roles are really like, a current ED looking to improve board relationships, or a board member wanting to better support your executive, this discussion offers honest insights into the complex but rewarding world of nonprofit executive leadership. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard. Informing Leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:01:00:46

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Encore: Effective Board Governance and Development

9/25/2025
Service on a nonprofit board is commendable and can be a rewarding experience. One of the many reasons people serve on nonprofit boards is the desire to contribute to the achievement of the mission and influence the direction of the organization. Board of directors are charged with providing oversight to ensure an organization’s policies, strategic direction, financial solvency, and executive leadership support successful accomplishment of an organization’s mission. Engaged board members who are effective in carrying out their duties and responsibilities can make a critical difference to the success of an organization. During this episode, Dr. Dwight Smith, General Counsel with the Neighborhood House Association in San Diego, CA and Ms. Sarah Lyman, Executive Director of Alliance Healthcare Foundation will share their experiences and discuss best practices for board governance; engagement; roles and responsibilities; board development; setting a strategic direction and making policy versus managing operations; and functioning as a high performing entity. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard. Informing Leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:01:01:44

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Effective Governance: Community Engagement and Advocacy

9/17/2025
Join us as we continue this month’s series on “Effective Governance” with special guest Martha Collins - Nonprofit Policy & Advocacy Leader | Builds Coalitions, Develops Leaders, Delivers Legislative Results Martha Collins is a seasoned public affairs professional with extensive experience in legislative communications, advocacy, and nonprofit leadership. She currently serves as Communications Director and Advanced Legislative Assistant for a Wisconsin State Senator, where she manages media relations, crafts press releases, oversees digital communications, and provides in-depth policy research to support legislative priorities. Martha has also championed food security and public policy. As Director of Advocacy and Outreach for Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, she developed strategies to improve nutrition assistance programs, fostered partnerships with community organizations, and advocated for culturally responsive food access. At Hunger Task Force, she managed complex projects, led cross-functional teams, and implemented quality control systems to ensure program effectiveness. Currently, Martha is enrolled in the Master of Legal Studies in Human Rights & Nonprofit Organization at Trinity Law School, where she is deepening her expertise in legal advocacy and conflict resolution. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Management from Cardinal Stritch University, where she was active in the CSU Alumni Association Board. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard—Informing leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:01:01:09

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Being Hired and Held Accountable: An ED/CEO’s Guide to Board Relationships

9/10/2025
What's it really like to be hired by a nonprofit board, and then work under their ongoing oversight and evaluation? In this candid conversation, we sit down with an experienced Executive Director to explore the unique dynamics of leading an organization while being accountable to a volunteer board. Matt Obert is President and CEO of Chaddock, an internationally recognized leader in trauma and attachment-based services for children and families shares personal insights into the hiring process from the candidate's perspective - from understanding what boards are really looking for to navigating the interview process with multiple stakeholders. We'll hear about the reality of annual performance reviews, how to build trust with board members who may not fully understand day-to-day operations, and the art of keeping boards engaged without overwhelming them. This conversation covers the challenges many EDs face: managing up to a board while leading down to staff, handling performance feedback from volunteers, and maintaining your leadership authority while staying accountable. We'll discuss how to work effectively with board chairs, navigate difficult board dynamics, and advocate for the resources and support you need to succeed. Whether you're an aspiring nonprofit leader wondering what executive roles are really like, a current ED looking to improve board relationships, or a board member wanting to better support your executive, this discussion offers honest insights into the complex but rewarding world of nonprofit executive leadership. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard. Informing Leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:01:00:46

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Effective Board Governance and Development

9/3/2025
Service on a nonprofit board is commendable and can be a rewarding experience. One of the many reasons people serve on nonprofit boards is the desire to contribute to the achievement of the mission and influence the direction of the organization. Board of directors are charged with providing oversight to ensure an organization’s policies, strategic direction, financial solvency, and executive leadership support successful accomplishment of an organization’s mission. Engaged board members who are effective in carrying out their duties and responsibilities can make a critical difference to the success of an organization. During this episode, Dr. Dwight Smith, General Counsel with the Neighborhood House Association in San Diego, CA and Ms. Sarah Lyman, Executive Director of Alliance Healthcare Foundation will share their experiences and discuss best practices for board governance; engagement; roles and responsibilities; board development; setting a strategic direction and making policy versus managing operations; and functioning as a high performing entity. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard. Informing Leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:01:01:44

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Encore - Boost Morale: Lead with and Inspire Joy!

8/26/2025
Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctor for a discussion on boosting morale. Neema Black, Sr. Director of Wellness with the Neighborhood House Association in San Diego, CA and Michael Cothrine, Wellness Specialist and Founder/Owner of Mike’s Fit Family will discuss ways to lead with and inspire joy with co-hosts Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard. Join us for Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors. Informing leaders. Inspiring solutions!

Duration:00:59:30

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Finding Joy: Wellness for Leaders

8/20/2025
Join us as we continue this month’s series on “Finding Joy: Wellness for Leaders” with special guest Dacia L. Moore. A dynamic speaker and mental health advocate, Dacia has captivated audiences nationwide. Her impressive career spanned crucial leadership roles, including Vice President of Programs at Niles Home for Children and Mental Health Coordinator at Community Linc where she provided vital services to previously homeless women and families. Dacia is a published author, her newest book, From Stuck to Unstoppable: 5 Strategies for Getting Your Second Wind, helps leaders to improve their emotional awareness for greater personal and professional impact. Through her work, Dacia exemplifies the power of combining clinical expertise with compassionate leadership to create lasting change in mental health access and community well-being. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard—Informing leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:00:58:54

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Personal Wellness Through Revolutionary Leadership

8/13/2025
The rEvolutionary leadership model combines two essential dimensions: evolutionary and revolutionary. Evolutionary leaders navigate continuous change and adapt to their environment, while revolutionary leaders proactively drive transformation and use disruption as a catalyst for positive change. This approach develops leadership capacity through four interconnected competencies: cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and spiritual dimensions. When leaders fully engage these foundational elements, they create conditions for both personal wellness and professional fulfillment. Join special guest Tom Woll, a nonprofit strategist with over 38 years of leadership experience in Northeast Ohio, for an insightful discussion on how leaders can achieve personal wellness and professional fulfillment while experiencing greater joy in their leadership journey. Co-hosts Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard will guide this conversation on Leadership Matters with the People's Doctors. Informing leaders. Inspiring solutions!

Duration:00:54:35

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Boost Morale: Lead with and Inspire Joy!

8/6/2025
Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctor for a discussion on boosting morale. Neema Black, Sr. Director of Wellness with the Neighborhood House Association in San Diego, CA and Michael Cothrine, Wellness Specialist and Founder/Owner of Mike’s Fit Family will discuss ways to lead with and inspire joy with co-hosts Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard. Join us for Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors. Informing leaders. Inspiring solutions!

Duration:00:59:30

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Encore: Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development during Turbulent Times, Part 2

7/29/2025
In times of crisis and uncertainty, the best leaders don't just manage immediate challenges—they simultaneously build organizational strength for the future. Join us as we continue this month’s series on “Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development during Turbulent Times” with special guest Coach Iris Savage Dargan. Coach Dargan, a personal and executive coaching, is the owner of DMP Coaching, LLC based in Houston, TX. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard—Informing leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:00:57:58

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Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development During Turbulent Times, Part 3

7/23/2025
In times of crisis and uncertainty, the best leaders don't just manage immediate challenges—they simultaneously build organizational strength for the future. Join us as we continue this month’s series on “Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development during Turbulent Times” with special guest Dr. Darvelle Hutchins, Vice President of Impact and Culture for the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans. Dr. Hutchins leads initiatives that have resulted in award-winning community programs, recruitment pipelines, and measurable organizational impact. Passionate about systemic change, he creates initiatives that boost employee engagement, enhance reputations, and deliver meaningful outcomes for communities. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard—Informing leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:00:57:27

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Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development during Turbulent Times, Part 2

7/16/2025
In times of crisis and uncertainty, the best leaders don't just manage immediate challenges—they simultaneously build organizational strength for the future. Join us as we continue this month’s series on “Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development during Turbulent Times” with special guest Coach Iris Savage Dargan. Coach Dargan, a personal and executive coaching, is the owner of DMP Coaching, LLC based in Houston, TX. Tune in to Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors—Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and Dr. Loretta Howard—Informing leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:00:58:19

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Encore: Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development during Turbulent Times, Part 1

7/9/2025
During July on Leadership Matters with the People's Doctors, we'll explore critical leadership challenges and provide actionable solutions for accountability, talent development, coaching and mentoring, employee engagement and retention, and building organizational bench strength. The strongest leaders don't just react to crises—they use challenging moments to forge resilient organizations. While others focus solely on immediate problems, exceptional leaders simultaneously invest in their people and build capacity for what's ahead. This conversation reveals how to maintain high standards and drive results when uncertainty threatens to derail progress. We'll examine proven strategies for developing talent at every level, keeping teams engaged during turbulent times, and creating cultures where people perform at their best regardless of external pressures. You'll discover how to balance competing demands: delivering today while preparing for tomorrow, maintaining team morale while pushing for excellence, and fostering growth when resources feel stretched thin. This isn't about survival mode leadership—it's about transformation. Whether you lead a small team or an entire organization, you'll walk away with concrete tools for building the leadership depth and organizational strength that separate thriving companies from those that merely endure.

Duration:00:55:37

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Essential Leadership and Bench Strength Development during Turbulent Times, Part 1

7/2/2025
During July on Leadership Matters with the People's Doctors, we'll explore critical leadership challenges and provide actionable solutions for accountability, talent development, coaching and mentoring, employee engagement and retention, and building organizational bench strength. The strongest leaders don't just react to crises—they use challenging moments to forge resilient organizations. While others focus solely on immediate problems, exceptional leaders simultaneously invest in their people and build capacity for what's ahead. This conversation reveals how to maintain high standards and drive results when uncertainty threatens to derail progress. We'll examine proven strategies for developing talent at every level, keeping teams engaged during turbulent times, and creating cultures where people perform at their best regardless of external pressures. You'll discover how to balance competing demands: delivering today while preparing for tomorrow, maintaining team morale while pushing for excellence, and fostering growth when resources feel stretched thin. This isn't about survival mode leadership—it's about transformation. Whether you lead a small team or an entire organization, you'll walk away with concrete tools for building the leadership depth and organizational strength that separate thriving companies from those that merely endure.

Duration:00:55:37

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Encore: Meet Our Host Team! Discussions on Leadership and Navigating in Times of Uncertainty

6/25/2025
Meet our host team: Dr. Sheryl White, Dr. Undraye Howard, and our newly added co-host Dr. Loretta Howard! Tune in to learn more about each of them, their take on leadership, lessons learned leading through times of uncertainty, and what the future holds for new programming with Leadership Matters. Join us for Leadership Matters: Informing Leaders. Inspiring Solutions!

Duration:00:52:02

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LEADING AMID UNCERTAINTY SERIES (Part 3): Leading and inspiring through change

6/18/2025
During June on Leadership Matters with the People’s Doctors, we spotlight real-world strategies for leading through uncertain times. In this week’s episode, our guest Dr. Julius Mullen Sr., Chief Learning & Engagement Officer for Children & Families First of Delaware, Executive/Speaker/Author/Professor/Life Coach/Therapist, from Dover, Delaware, joins us to share insights from his own leadership journey. Tune in for a compelling discussion filled with practical tools and case studies to help leaders successfully guide their organizations through challenging, unpredictable moments.

Duration:00:56:57