People in Fundraising, ep. 150: Christina Martin Kenny, Founder of Guava Tree Strategies

For this podcast's 150th episode, I am so pleased to share this interview with Christina Martin Kenny. Many in the "People in Fundraising" community and the nonprofit world are familiar with Christina's excellent LinkedIn posts about workplace challenges that many young mothers who are also nonprofit leaders face. It is a critical topic, and Christina has done admirable work providing platforms for others to candidly discuss their experiences.

In our conversation, Christina also describes:

* Her recent launch of Guava Tree Strategies, a nonprofit consulting firm that "helps nonprofits move beyond survival mode by building sustainable fundraising strategies and nurturing strong teams, so they can focus less on the money and more on the mission."

* A post she wrote in early 2025 about nonprofit leaders shifting from institutional development shops to consulting. It has 5,300+ reactions and over 500 comments, demonstrating the importance of this topic and trend. Christina talks about why this trend won't change "until orgs. start viewing their staff as an investment into their mission," and what holds nonprofit orgs. back from this needed re-framing. Here is Christina's original post:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cmkenny_theres-a-concern-about-how-many-non-profit-activity-7265008260078825472-4fqi?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAFOPkMBdO1ZccHn1d0ANmpJpzBHWDK0Rzs

* Nonprofit leaders who have enriched and supported Christina's career, including Tasha Van Vlack of The Nonprofit Hive; Courtney Harrness; and We are For Good's Becky Endicott and Jon McCoy.

* Christina's reaction to this quote from British author Vex King: "My kind of people are those who wish others well, remain accountable for their actions, seek growth with you, are kind to strangers, and keep it real without being unnecessarily rude." She shares who comes to mind in her life who has these attributes.

Thank you Christina for a wonderful and engaging conversation! I wish you and your company continued success and enjoyment.