What does it really mean to tell stories with heart - and without harm?

In this deeply moving and practical episode of the Lead with Heart Podcast, I’m joined by my brilliant friend Diana Farias Heinrich, CEO of Habrá Marketing and the visionary behind the EQUAstory Framework and the Ethical Nonprofit Summit. Together, we explore the complex terrain of ethical storytelling in the nonprofit sector.

Diana shares her journey from a first-time fundraiser to a leader in ethical marketing, including the powerful moment that transformed how she approached storytelling forever. We unpack how stories can unintentionally exploit and what true informed consent really looks like.

In this episode:

• [02:52] Diana’s powerful story of publishing with unintended consequences and what it taught her
• [06:18] Ethical storytelling and common nonprofit marketing and communications pitfalls
• [09:36] The 4-step EQUAstory Framework for ethical nonprofit storytelling
• [22:00] Why informed consent is a process, not a form
• [24:18] How to gather and share stories while protecting the dignity and safety of your clients
• [26:56] The role of stock photos, trauma-informed practices, and board education in nonprofit communications
• [32:24] The Ethical Nonprofit Summit

Join the Ethical Nonprofit Summit (June 4 - 6, 2025) and use the code leadwithheart for $20 off.

“ How do I make sure that whatever I publish at the end is something that one, isn't going to put somebody in harm's way? And two, is something that they're proud of?” - Diana Farias Heinrich

“ Informed consent is a process, not a form.” - Diana Farias Heinrich

“  From a marketing perspective, you absolutely need to use photos. It is what drives the in

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My book, Sow, Grow, Lead is live on Amazon! It shares my journey of starting a nonprofit in Malawi and offers practical strategies to help nonprofit leaders turn visions into reality, and create meaningful impact

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CONNECT WITH HALEY
Haley is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Stress Management Coach, and EmC trainer. She founded The Savvy Fundraiser, a nonprofit consulting and coaching business, and has experience with nonprofits in human services, homelessness, and youth sectors. Specializing in EmC, leadership, board development, and fundraising, Haley is dedicated to empowering nonprofit leaders to create thriving organizations.
Instagram: @thesavvyfundraiser
LinkedIn: Haley Cooper, CFRE
Website: thesavvyfundraiser.com

Produced by Ideablossoms