The Realities of Purpose-Driven Work:

Behind the Scenes of Nonprofit Leadership

In this honest conversation, Kaitlyn Rios and Kris Fanning explore the true realities of choosing impact over ease in the nonprofit world. From invisible labor to emotional resilience, they delve into the grit required to build meaningful change without a safety net.

Key Topics:

• The emotional and physical toll of nonprofit work and invisible labor
• The pivotal moments and mindset shifts that lead to impactful career changes
• The significance of purpose and how to recognize it in your life
• Strategies for managing imposter syndrome and maintaining self-belief
• The importance of small wins and self-acknowledgment during hard times
• Building organizational foundation with patience and grace
• The challenges and rewards of leading unpaid boards and volunteer teams
• Practical advice on balancing purpose-driven work with business acumen

Timestamps:

00:02 - The hidden struggles of choosing impact over ease
00:31 - Kris Fanning’s journey from healthcare to nonprofit leadership
02:05 - Sharing the lesser-known stories behind their public personas
03:05 - What it feels like when a system no longer fits
03:37 - Recognizing purpose as a guiding principle
04:53 - The power of vision books in goal-setting
06:17 - The catalyst moments that triggered career leaps
09:22 - The unseen labor and emotional weight of nonprofit leadership
11:28 - Managing the solitude and overwhelm of building impactful organizations
12:21 - Practical tips for mental resilience and self-care
14:33 - The importance of celebrating small wins amidst big challenges
15:23 - Leading without a traditional team — the nuances of influence and authority
17:02 - Navigating the dynamics of unpaid boards and volunteer leadership
18:38 - Overcoming imposter syndrome in high-stakes environments
19:59 - Moments of affirmation that reinforce impact-driven decisions
21:26 - Personal growth through purpose-driven work
22:39 - The importance of patience and strong foundation building
23:05 - Common misconceptions about purpose and impact work
24:25 - How to connect with Kris Fanning and Texas

Faced With Grace:

www.facedwithgrace.org

connect@facedwithgrace.org

TicKidsResources & Links:

• Texas TicKids - Learn more about Kris Fanning’s impactful organization

Connect with Kris Fanning:

• Facebook

These show notes aim to capture the raw, insightful dialogue on leadership, purpose, and resilience. Whether you're considering a leap into impact work or already navigating its challenges, this episode offers real-world wisdom to guide your journey.