Financial Therapy: Helping Nonprofit Leaders Overcome Financial Anxiety

In this episode of the Nonprofit Exchange, I had the pleasure of speaking with John Hankins, a financial therapist with a rich background in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. We delved into the critical topic of financial therapy and how it can help nonprofit leaders overcome financial anxiety. John shared his journey, starting from his early days as a CFO in a small nonprofit to his transition into financial therapy after witnessing the anxiety many nonprofit leaders face when managing funds they’ve never encountered before. He emphasized the importance of understanding our personal money stories and how they shape our relationship with money. We discussed the contrast between healthy and unhealthy relationships with money, highlighting how misalignment between our financial goals, feelings, and actions can lead to anxiety. John pointed out that societal pressures and the stigma around discussing money contribute to this anxiety, especially in the nonprofit sector, where leaders often feel guilty about raising funds. John introduced the concept of financial therapy as an essential overlay to traditional therapy, aimed at building a positive relationship with money. He also mentioned the Financial Therapy Association, which bridges the gap between financial planning and emotional well-being. Throughout our conversation, we explored the behaviors that can hinder nonprofit leaders, such as reluctance to engage with financial details and feelings of shame around money. John encouraged listeners to recognize that it’s okay to talk about money and to seek help in navigating their financial relationships. As we wrapped up, John offered a valuable reminder: everyone has a relationship with money, regardless of their financial situation, and exploring that relationship can lead to significant improvements in both personal and professional life. I hope this episode inspires nonprofit leaders to address their financial anxieties and consider the benefits of financial therapy. Get the full transcript at - https://synervisionleadership.org/2025/06/16/npe-financial-therapy/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices