EP80: Transforming Volunteer Frustration Into Better Communication

When 15 blankets arrived with messy selvage edges despite "clear" instructions, I blamed the volunteers. That was not great, but then I asked: What if the problem is my communication?

In this vulnerable episode, I share how frustration over "ruined" Binky Patrol blankets led to a profound leadership insight about expert blindness. After 30 years of nonprofit work, I discovered I've been assuming knowledge that first-time volunteers simply don't have.

Learn why I'm inviting children to critique our instructions, how to recognize when your expertise becomes a communication barrier, and practical strategies to bridge the gap between what you know and what volunteers understand.

For nonprofit leaders tired of repeating themselves or fixing well-intentioned mistakes, this episode offers a fresh perspective on volunteer guidance that transforms frustration into growth opportunities.

#NonprofitLeadership #VolunteerManagement #CommunicationSkills #ExpertBlindness