Igniting the Powder Keg

“Igniting the Powder Keg is a must-read for nonprofit leaders looking to transform disengaged boards into dynamic forces for impact. I found Becker’s insights on cultivating a culture of abundance and leveraging board engagement to be both inspiring and immediately applicable.” - Leslie Biggins Mollsen, President, American City Bureau

“This is a timely, practical guide for nonprofit leaders. I found this book both grounding and energizing. Brian blends real wisdom, honest stories, and actionable tools that help leaders turn potential into real momentum.” - James Brooks, Chief Executive Officer, Lawndale Christian Health Center

“Brian delivers practical solutions through great storytelling–an invaluable resource for nonprofit leaders at any stage. Drawing on his own real-world experience and the wisdom of top practitioners, he offers insights I wish I’d had early in my presidency.” - Donald Christian, President & CEO, Concordia University Texas, 2014-2024

“Brian helped us build out a plan to support both our current and future operations. We are grateful for our time spent with Brian, learning and evolving. Brian’s deep sense of faith gave us great security in Brian being exactly the right person to help elevate our organization.” - Meggan Hill-McQueeney, President & CEO, BraveHearts

“This book is a gem… told in an engaging, conversational style, it is a quick read for busy educators. It will be of great help to both mentors and those seeking guidance in leading an academic institution.” - Barbara E. Reid, O.P., President Emerita, Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, IL

“In Igniting the Powder Keg, Brian Becker offers an immensely helpful resource for nonprofit boards and their leaders. His story-driven approach transforms complex concepts into practical, engaging exercises that foster real impact.” - Dennis Gorski, Founder & Co-Executive Director of Dynamis Ministries

Brian Becker is a nationally recognized expert in nonprofit leadership and fundraising, with more than 30 years of experience helping organizations ignite cultures of accountability, high impact, and abundance.

As a speaker, consultant, and author, Brian equips nonprofits to build the kind of leadership teams their missions deserve. His clients consistently develop bold, innovative strategies, strengthen their boards, and achieve greater impact and sustainability.

A dynamic and highly sought-after presenter, Brian has delivered more than a thousand keynotes and workshops across the United States, Canada, England, Singapore, and South America—energizing tens of thousands of business and nonprofit leaders. Drawing on his extensive experience as a nonprofit executive and board member, he brings an authentic, seasoned understanding of what it takes to build thriving organizations grounded in strong governance, disciplined systems, and principled leadership—all infused with a spirit of generosity.

Brian is also a doubly certified executive coach, working with nonprofit and corporate leaders who share a common goal: creating new story endings filled with meaning, power, and hope.

He is the co-author, with his son Jeff, of Tender Lions: Building the Vital Relationship Between Father and Son, a highly acclaimed book celebrated for its honesty, practical insights, and hope.

At home, Brian cherishes his most meaningful roles as husband, father, and grandfather.