In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Rabbi Joanna Samuels, CEO and President of the Marlene Meyerson JCC in Manhattan, the largest Jewish Community Center in the United States. Rabbi Samuels discusses her leadership philosophy, rooted deeply in faith and optimism, and how the JCC builds community through programs that span every age and stage of life. She explains why friendship and community are the true “products” her organization delivers and how these relational values drive their mission.
Rabbi Samuels shares how she navigated major challenges, including leading through the COVID-19 pandemic and the profound impact of October 7th on the Jewish community. She offers honest reflections on the resilience required in leadership and how being both kind and bossy—a description offered by her own child—has helped her succeed. This episode is a powerful reminder of the essential human need for connection, belonging, and the role of nonprofits in fulfilling that need.
Key Topics Include:
- Why relationships and friendship are central to the mission of the JCC
- The impact of faith on leadership decisions and vision
- How to be an inclusive and responsive nonprofit for a diverse community
- Leadership lessons from navigating COVID-19 and the events of October 7th
- The value of listening and decisiveness in nonprofit leadership
- Gender and faith identity as strengths in executive leadership
- How community centers can remain relevant and essential amid societal crises
Mentioned in This Episode:
This Episode is Sponsored By:
Links to Resources:
- Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com
- Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel
- Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com
- Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com
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