Episode 014: Do you have the courage to lead?

Lindy HoyerRunning a nonprofit takes guts

Today we are joined by Lindy Hoyer, Executive Director of Omaha Children’s Museum.

Lindy first joined the museum after graduating from Doane College with a BA in Theatre. After spending a few years away, in 2002 she “came home” to head up this important educational resource located in the heart of Nebraska’s largest city. Since then, she has overseen a $6.6 million capital expansion and an explosion in annual attendance, to over 270,000 visitors.

During her tenure, Lindy has had ample opportunity to work her “courage” muscle, particularly in the decisions she has had to make. Many decisions worked out well–some extraordinarily so. On the other hand, a few didn’t work out so well.

Through it all, she has maintained one core philosophy: growth. This applies not only to the children who visit, but also to the organization, the staff who work there, members of the board–and to Lindy herself.

It takes courage to admit when you make a wrong turn, and courage to do a full and honest post-mortem. This courage is rewarded, however, because mistakes provide the greatest learning opportunities.

To learn more about Lindy or Omaha Children’s Museum, click here!

Click here to download as an MP3 (right click and choose “save as”).

In this episode, Lindy and Darren discuss:

Hang on to the end to hear Lindy’s Magic Moment challenge!

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

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Wanna binge? Go ahead!

Episode 013: The joys and trials of growing an organization from the ground up

Episode 012: Could your organization use a rebrand?

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 Leading Out Loud: A Guide for Engaging Others in Creating the Future by Terry Pearce

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Untitled design (18)The Effective Executive: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Right Things Done by Peter F. Drucker

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GoodToGreatGood to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap…And Others Don’t by Jim Collins.

Some titles above are affiliate links. If you’re not sure why you should care click here. You’ll also learn how you can help feed the children.

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