Host: May Harris, Esq.

Guest: Dr. Lyn Corbett, The Pivotal Group

“We are a boutique firm because we are small, but we are a mighty group of individuals that work together to address the most pressing needs of a nonprofit. Our goal is to make them successful.”

— Dr. Lyn Corbett

Charting the Course: Strategic Planning and Board Engagement

Behind every thriving nonprofit is a committed board and a clear plan. In this episode, May Harris sits down with Dr. Lyn Corbett, founder of The Pivotal Group, to explore what makes board service meaningful, how nonprofits can benefit from working with outside consultants, and why clarity of purpose is foundational to impact. With nearly 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Dr. Corbett offers grounded, strategic insight for leaders at every stage.

In This Episode

A time-stamped guide to what you’ll hear.

• [01:30] Dr. Corbett shares how The Pivotal Group began and why board engagement is at the heart of nonprofit success

• [06:30] His early life experiences and how they shaped his commitment to nonprofit work

• [10:52] The importance of qualified, passionate board members who understand their role

• [15:18] Why starting as a committee member can be a strong pathway to board leadership

• [23:24] The difference between nonprofits that compete and those that collaborate — and why it matters

• [27:33] What to look for when hiring a nonprofit consultant

Key Takeaways

Insightful moments and lessons from the conversation.

• Board motivation matters. A board member’s “why” is just as important as their skill set.

• Good governance starts with clarity. Serving on a committee first can help build understanding before joining a board.

• Collaboration creates momentum. Nonprofits that work together — not against each other — go further.

• The right consultant can transform your approach. Timing, trust, and values alignment are key when seeking outside guidance.

Guest Bio: Dr. Lyn Corbett

Dr. Lyn Corbett is the founder and principal consultant of The Pivotal Group, a firm dedicated to helping nonprofits become more effective through strategic planning, governance, and board development. With nearly three decades of experience in the sector, he is known for his collaborative style, mission alignment, and ability to help organizations build capacity from the inside out.