The EO Business Podcast

Ep. 176 - Michael Connelly | The Truth About Nonprofits No One Talks About

Linh Podetti Season 3 Episode 176

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0:00 | 46:06

Guest: Michael Connelly, Managing Director of CPR Group, EO Queensland Member since 2024
Host: Linh Podetti, EO Sydney Member since 2022 and Owner of Outsourcing Angel

What if the biggest problem with nonprofits… is how they think about money?

In this episode of the EO Business Podcast, Linh Podetti sits down with Michael Connelly, Managing Director of CPR Group, to unpack the truth about nonprofit business models — and why so many purpose-driven organisations struggle to grow.

Michael shares his journey from starting a music school as a young entrepreneur to helping thousands of nonprofits become stronger, more sustainable businesses. From governance and strategy to mindset and leadership, this conversation is packed with practical insights for anyone building a purpose-driven organisation.

You’ll also hear:
  • Why “not for profit” doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make money
  • The real reason nonprofits stay stuck in survival mode
  • How to shift from doing everything yourself to true leadership
  • The surprising human impact behind poorly run organisations
  • Why Michael wants to “die with nothing in the tank”

This episode is for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone who wants to build a business that creates real impact.

ABOUT MICHAEL
Michael Connelly is the Managing Director of CPR Group and a specialist in helping not-for-profits become stronger, more sustainable businesses. With nearly 30 years of experience, he works with councils, universities, and community organisations to improve governance, strategy, and performance. Passionate about purpose-driven impact, Michael is known for challenging the misconception that nonprofits shouldn’t make money, and for empowering leaders to think more entrepreneurially so they can better serve their communities.

CONNECT WITH MICHAEL
Website: https://cprgroup.com.au/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nfpmichael/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nfpmichael/

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ABOUT EO

Entrepreneur's Organization (EO) is a global business network of 18,000 + influential business owners in over 220 chapters across 76 countries. We offer world-class events that encompass engaging entrepreneur and business stories, skills-specific workshops, and exciting social gatherings.

Our mission is to drive both business and personal growth through peer-to-peer learning, providing support for the holistic entrepreneur experience covering business, family, community, and personal aspects. As a not-for-profit organization, all our funds directly contribute to member benefits.

If you're a business owner with revenues ranging from US$250k to US$1m, you can join our Accelerator Program. If your revenues exceed US$1m, you can join the main EO Program in your nearest local chapter. To join or find out more about your nearest chapter, visit https://www.eonetwork.org/why-join/apply-for-membership-form.

For further information, please contact:
Podcast Host Linh Podetti: linh@outsourcingangel.com.au
General Inquiries: support@eonetwork.org.au
EO Sydney: www.eosydney.com.au
EO Global: https://hub.eonetwork.org/