Leadership in volunteer engagement is not defined by title or workload, but by the ability to influence, align, and inspire others toward a shared vision. Many leaders stay busy managing day-to-day tasks, yet struggle to step into a more visible and strategic role that drives real organizational impact.

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, part of the Impact Lab POV Series, Tobi Johnson sits down with Megan Vixie, a seasoned nonprofit leader, to explore how professionals can grow their leadership presence and expand their influence. Drawing from her journey from volunteer to Chief Engagement Officer, Megan shares practical insights on mindset shifts, intrinsic motivation, and the importance of cultural competence in leading effectively.

Together, they unpack what it means to move from simply “working in your program” to intentionally “working on your program,” and how visibility, voice, and vision play a critical role in advancing both personal leadership and organizational success. Megan also offers actionable strategies to help listeners speak up, leverage their unique strengths, and align their work with broader strategic priorities.

If you’re ready to elevate your impact, build confidence as a leader, and step into a more influential role within your organization, this conversation will give you the tools and perspective to get started.

Full show notes:

Leadership and Influence – Episode Highlights

• [00:00] – Introducing Megan Vixie and the impact of volunteerism in today’s world
• [02:11] – Megan’s volunteer story and path to leadership
• [04:25] – The role of passion and purpose in volunteer engagement careers
• [09:07] – Why volunteerism is vital amidst societal stressors
• [13:08] – Common misconceptions about career growth in the volunteer field
• [16:29] – Mindset shifts: Using vision, visibility, and voice
• [20:27] – The importance of owning your influence regardless of title
• [23:22] – How influence intersects with organizational strategy and influence
• [28:48] – Practical steps to build confidence and speak up effectively
• [36:37] – Real-world example of shifting mindset to leadership success
• [39:53] – Starting small when seeking to enhance your influence
• [45:45] – Building trust and partnership through listening and affirming
• [48:48] – Encouragement to take risks and have tough conversations
• [52:11] – Megan’s upcoming advanced seminar and how to join
• [54:10] – Megan’s vision for the future of volunteer engagement leadership
• [55:23] – Connecting with Megan and learning about her work

Helpful Links

• VolunteerPro Impact Lab – https://volpro.net/join/
• Volunteer Management Progress Report – https://volpro.net/volunteer-management-progress-report/
• Volunteer Nation Episode #017: My Top 12 Nonprofit Leadership Tips Learned the Hard Way – https://volpro.net/017-my-top-12-nonprofit-leadership-tips-learned-the-hard-way/
• Find Megan on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganvixie/
• Arrive Circa Now website – ht

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 questions, email us at WeCare@VolPro.net.