616. Hold Fast: Creating Space for Trust and Alignment in Funding (Iara Peng)
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Overview
In this episode of our Hold Fast series, we’re leaning into what it really means to lead with purpose—especially when the weight of funding pressures feels unrelenting. Iara Peng joins us for a heart-opening conversation that invites nonprofit leaders to breathe a little deeper and reimagine funding as a partnership, not just a transaction.
With compassion and clarity, Iara offers a vision for building trust-based relationships rooted in alignment and shared purpose. You’ll walk away with practical ways to pause the hustle, reclaim time for strategic thinking, prioritize fewer but better-aligned funders, and lean into storytelling as a spacious, powerful tool. It’s the reminder we all need: you are already enough. Your work matters. And there’s a more intentional, more human way forward. 💛
Homework:
What originally called me to this work?
Where do I feel most alive and aligned in my work right now?
What does it look like for me to lead with trust and not fear this week?
Bonus: at your next team or board meeting, bring one of those questions and invite reflection.
“It’s the space between the logs that makes the fire possible.”
Episode Transcript
Download Full Episode Transcript Here
Episode Highlights
Navigating Funding Relationships in Times of Crisis (02:02)
The Importance of Space in Leadership and Funding (04:43)
Building Trust and Funders (08:05)
Maintaining Values in Funding Relationships (12:57)
Curiosity and Mutuality in Fundraising (17:10)
Staying Rooted in Your Why (23:55)
Powerful Quotes
“Let’s re-think how we engage in a relationship with fundraising. Urgency and crises can diminish trust.” - Iara Peng
“Don’t build relationships that are rooted in crises after crises.” - Iara Peng
“Re-center on intentionality, relationships, and your breath—rather than the frenetic pace we’ve come to accept as normal.” – Iara Peng
“Where is the alignment and how can we connect with people who are really working towards the same north star?” -Iara Peng
“It’s hard to hold a boundary by yourself. It’s much easier if you have people behind you.” Iara Peng
"When we stay close to our why, we move not just with urgency, but with integrity."- Iara Peng
Iara’s One Good Thing: You are already enough. You don’t have to earn your place in the work you’re doing right now.
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