Bestselling Author

FAQ

1. What is Igniting the Powder Keg about?

Igniting the Powder Keg is a practical, story-driven guide to building highly engaged nonprofit boards. Drawing on years of nonprofit leadership and board development experience, Brian Becker offers seven proven keys to spark board engagement, strengthen governance, and align your board with your mission. This book is specifically for nonprofit leaders who want boards that don’t just meet—they lead.

This book is for nonprofit executives, board chairs, new board members, seasoned trustees, fundraisers, and anyone aspiring to serve in nonprofit leadership. Whether you’re just starting your board journey or looking to take board engagement to the next level, these seven keys provide the proven and practical roadmap.

Unlike dense textbooks or theory-heavy leadership manuals, Igniting the Powder Keg is written in a conversational, accessible style with real-life stories, actionable tools, and a clear framework. It doesn’t just explain what boards should do—it shows you how to create engagement, accountability, and impact right away.

This quick read is under 120 pages, plus the Appendix (Resource Center) chock-full with helpful charts, graphs, and documents to assist you to more effectively engage your board of directors. Igniting the Powder Keg is designed for busy nonprofit CEOs and board members. Most chapters end with reflection questions similar to executive coaching questions, making it ideal for reflection and personal growth.

The book is available at Ingram Press, Amazon, and IgnitingthePowderKeg.com – making it easy to order for individuals or in bulk for nonprofit boards and conferences. If bulk orders are desired, please contact Brian directly to see about discount bulk pricing.

Brian has worked alongside nonprofit boards, executives, and fundraisers for over 30 years. He has seen firsthand how disengaged boards can hold back even the most inspiring missions—and how an engaged, energized board can transform an organization. This book is his passion project: equipping leaders with the tools to build the boards their missions deserve.

As a nonprofit keynote speaker, workshop leader, and retreat facilitator, Brian covers: • Board engagement and governance best practices • Leadership development for nonprofit executives • Board strategic planning • Leadership development and team building for staffs • Building a culture of trust, accountability, meaning and high performance

Yes. Brian regularly leads board retreats, strategy sessions, and customized workshops based on the seven keys from Igniting the Powder Keg. He brings boards practical tools they can use immediately to improve governance, fundraising, and mission alignment.

Absolutely. Igniting the Powder Keg is ideal for board training programs, leadership cohorts, and nonprofit conferences. Discounts are available for bulk orders, making it easy to equip your entire team or audience.

Nonprofit boards often struggle with engagement, governance, and accountability. This book provides a clear framework to move boards from passive to powerful: unlocking fundraising potential, recruiting highly qualified new board members, applying clear expectations to increase effectiveness, and accountability. Leaders will gain practical tools to ignite the fuse of board member talent, connections, and resources.