On the latest episode of Outside Insights, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sheila Bravo, president and CEO of DANA (Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement). Sheila’s career journey—from corporate marketing with brands like Vlasic Pickles and Godiva to nonprofit leadership—is all about adaptability, purpose, and lifelong learning. Her story holds valuable lessons for anyone, no matter their field. If you’re searching for inspiration or a reminder that career pivots can lead to more fulfillment, you need to add this episode to your list.
“You never make the plan the way you plan to make the plan.”
Sheila didn’t always envision herself in the nonprofit sector. For years, she thrived in high-powered corporate roles, leading well-known brands and traveling the world. But behind the scenes, something was missing.
The long hours and constant travel meant Sheila was away from her family more than she wanted to be. “I wasn’t around much… the success was there, but the fulfillment wasn’t,” she reflected. The work that once energized her had become routine, and she began to feel disconnected from her purpose.
Sound familiar? It definitely did for me when talking with Sheila. I often reflect on the long hours I would spend locked in my office while my growing family made memories without me. Eventually, something had to give and I had to make a change. Sheila did, too.
She craved something deeper, a career that aligned not only with her professional skills but with her personal values. So, she made the bold decision to walk away from corporate America and seek work with greater meaning.
Nonprofit leadership wasn’t part of Sheila’s original plan, but it turned out to be exactly where she needed to be.
Meet DANA. The secret sauce behind nonprofits.
During our conversation, Sheila highlighted the tough realities nonprofits face: rising costs, staff turnover, and funding that isn’t keeping up with inflation. DANA, under Sheila’s leadership, is helping nonprofits navigate these hurdles. They provide essential training, consulting, and strategy to help organizations operate more efficiently. Their standout initiative is a nonprofit accelerator that helps smaller organizations, especially those serving marginalized communities, scale their impact. Sheila calls DANA the “secret sauce” behind nonprofits, focused on empowering them for long-term success.
Lessons We Can Learn from Sheila
Sheila’s journey is filled with insights that extend far beyond the nonprofit world. Here are four lessons highlighted within the podcast that we can all learn from her experience:
1 – Lead with Purpose
In the corporate world, decisions often focus on profit. But Sheila highlights that leading with purpose means ensuring every decision aligns with the organization’s mission. No matter your field, it’s essential to stay grounded in why you’re doing the work and who it ultimately serves.
2 – Embrace Collaboration and Innovation
Sheila’s success with DANA came from helping nonprofits pool resources and talent. Her collaborative approach proves that the best innovations are sparked when people put their minds together and collaborate. This mindset is crucial when resources are stretched, no matter your industry.
3 – Never Stop Learning
Sheila’s pursuit of a PhD after her corporate career highlights an Outside Insights classic: Knowledge is power. Whether through formal education or simply staying curious, continuous growth is essential for staying relevant and thriving in today’s fast-paced world.
4 – Adapt to Change with Confidence
Sheila’s career pivot from corporate to nonprofit leadership shows the power of embracing change. Her transition wasn’t on any roadmap or 10 year plan, but it allowed her to find more purpose and fulfillment. Adapting to change—rather than resisting it—can lead you to live a more authentic life where your work is aligned with your values.
Sheila’s path is a reminder that sometimes the best career moves are the ones we don’t plan. Her approach to leadership—focused on purpose, collaboration, and continuous growth—offers valuable insights for anyone navigating their own journey. To dive deeper into these lessons and hear more about Sheila’s story, check out the full episode of Outside Insights. It’s a conversation full of real-world advice for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their work.
Until next time,
Chris
If you found this conversation with Sheila insightful and valuable, make sure to subscribe to Outside Insights, with the links below, for more enriching discussions on entrepreneurship, creativity, and mental health. Join our community of entrepreneurs and thought leaders, and let’s grow together! You can subscribe to the podcast wherever you find your podcasts and on YouTube.
If you enjoyed this, I recommend listening to these past Outside Insights Podcast episodes:
Building Change That Lasts: Lessons from Miriam Dicks – Outside Insights Podcast Episode #49
From the Classroom to the Capitol: Matt Meyer’s Leadership Journey – Episode 48
Leadership Lessons From Ted Lasso: A Sit-down with Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio – Episode 47
Want to receive Outside Insights in your inbox?
Listen to the Outside Insights Podcast
Placers ‘Acts of Kindness’ Promise To Job Seekers and Businesses
Placers provides career coaches, job agents, resume writing, and interview preparation services for job seekers. We are the coach to the workforce.
We have vacant roles at the professional level as well as temporary work, temp-to-hire positions, direct-hire openings, and contract work. We have employment opportunities at all levels that solve employment challenges in the present.
Placers is also the consultant to businesses. Companies that would benefit from a revitalized 90-day business plan should contact us.
Placers has been an industry staffing leader for 51 years. Leading is about service. Leaders are positioned to serve. It’s one of our differentiators. It’s our promise to serve.
Take advantage of these complimentary offerings. Click here and complete the quick form.
Leave a Reply