Episode #85 | Navigating DEI in Nonprofits Now with Sharon Papo

In this episode, Sharon Papo of Indigo Skies Consulting and LGBTQ eLearning explores the complexity and necessity of DEI, and what it means to stay true to your values in today’s climate. From legal ambiguity to organizational values, she talks about how nonprofits can remain mission-aligned while navigating increased scrutiny, shifting language, and growing political pressures. Sharon also dives into the data-backed benefits of DEI in the workplace, including improved employee morale, retention, and belonging—particularly among younger generations. 

You’ll also hear reflections on ethical giving policies, the emotional labor of fundraising, and the importance of radical self-care in high-stakes conversations. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, board member, or passionate advocate, this conversation will leave you with a renewed commitment to values, courage to lead through complexity, and strategies to keep the work—and the people doing it—thriving.

 

Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 

 

This Episode Brought to You by: 

Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com

Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 

 

The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/

As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 

 

Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com

 

DC Auctions: https://dc-auctions.com/

 

Speakers

Samantha Swaim

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/

 

Kristin Steele

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/

 

Sharon Papo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-papo/

 

| RESOURCES |

Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting

 

Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/

 

Guidebook for Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book

 

Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/

 

Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com

 

Check out Success Redefined: https://sharonpapo.com/purchase

 

See Upcoming Conversations on Navigating DEI and LGBTQ Inclusion in the Workplace: https://www.lgbtqelearning.com/

 

2025 Edelman Trust Barometer: https://www.edelman.com/trust/2025/trust-barometer

 

Bowling Alone by Robert D. Punam: https://www.powells.com/book/bowling-alone-revised-updated-the-collapse-revival-of-american-community-9781982130848?gad_source=4&gad_campaignid=19630551777

 

Indigo Skies Consulting: https://sharonpapo.com/