What the Fundraising (Mallory Erickson)

This is part two of our conversation with psychologist, award-winning researcher, and professor of organizational behavior at Cornell University, Vanessa Bohns. Here we discuss  the psychological aspects and consequences of power dynamics. Plus the ways donors can sometimes underestimate their influence. It’s time to put our funder lenses on to really understand our organization’s potential from different points of view, especially those who share our mission and are interested in investing. Don’t miss this second part of the conversation with this amazing expert! If you haven’t listened to part I of this conversation that focuses on the influence of the fundraiser, go check it out! Episode highlights: (02:45) - Psychological implications within power dynamics: How to deliver an effective and conscious message when in a position of power. (09:24) - Insights on traditional (and biased) restricted funding narratives: The difference between taking perspective and getting perspective. (13:04) - How to open the conversation - When offering new possibilities to funders feels like we’re challenging them. (18:26) - Becoming aware of structural power dynamics principles and how they affect the relationship between funders and nonprofits. (21:52) - What’s behind the philanthropist spirit? On the need for transparency within funding. (26:02) - Contact info and Vannessa’s shout out to a non-profit near and dear to her heart.

In this episode of What the Fundraising, Mallory dives deep with Brian Ford to explore the psychological barriers that keep us from translating good intentions into meaningful action. Brian sheds light on self-sabotage, the complex belief systems that shape our behavior, and how small, consistent actions can ultimately shift our mindset and redefine our identity. Together, they discuss practical strategies for nonprofit leaders and fundraisers to overcome internal resistance, implement disciplined action, and create supportive systems that foster real progress toward their goals. Brian Ford is the host and founder of Self Improvement Daily, a podcast where he has shared almost 2000 personal development tips and earned over 20 million downloads. He's also the founder of For Purpose Foundation where he uses self improvement as a fundraising vehicle for good. Key takeaways from the episode:  Identify key barriers to turning intention into action, including self-sabotage. Learn how belief systems shape choices through the Identity Behavior Feedback Loop. Recognize the impact of small, consistent actions in overcoming self-sabotage. Redefine discipline as making the right choices despite challenges. Distinguish self-sabotage from genuine intentions using self-reflection. Adopt a growth mindset by learning from mistakes through self-compassion. Apply practical strategies like inversion standards to support personal growth. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point.

Perfectionism can be sneaky. We think we’re just working hard, doing our best, and tirelessly serving others. And we are. But, as my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising points out, there can also be a lot of ego driving our behaviors and it needs to be explored. Kamilah Martin, Founder & CEO of Katalyst Consulting Group, leverages her decades of nonprofit experience to help align leaders in the sector – especially those whose organizations are experiencing transition. We are untangling the many ways that we can get in the way of our own best intentions – especially when we’ve got unexplored blind spots. That’s where a well-grounded executive coach can make all the difference, holding space for self-inquiry around deeply ingrained (often counter-productive) beliefs. The work is invaluable, says Kamilah, whose experience has been that self-aware leaders tend to be the most successful. Why? Because they bring a humanity-centered set of tools and solutions.  Even when we’re doing all the work and showing up for ourselves the best we know how there are going to be emotional triggers. Fundraisers – like all humans – will always be a work in progress. This conversation nudges us to take some grace and loosen that perfectionistic death grip. Openness is like a breath of fresh air, plus it truly helps our organizations thrive. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point! Many thanks to our incredible sponsors at DonorPerfect. DonorPerfect has a lot of free educational resources for fundraisers. Learn more and download some of their guides and tools today at donorperfect.com/mallory.

It’s dizzying to look back on this past season of What the Fundraising and try to encapsulate all the brilliant advice, life lessons, and wisdom that my guests have shared – which is why I was fortunate to have my good friend Dana Snyder, CEO of Positive Equation, on deck to help out! Together we’re deconstructing some of the big themes impacting nonprofits today as well as the many innovative new ways organizations are approaching donor partnerships.  A lot of our conversations in this space seem to be trending towards pausing – whether for self-reflection, celebration, or recalibration in the face of fast-paced, relentless technological and social change. This episode provides highlights (and links) for some of our most compelling What the Fundraising conversations and favorite topics from perfectionism to donor retention and everything in between. Listen now to hear a thought-provoking, lively, and information-packed episode.  Episode Highlights: (02:35) – About the brainstorming and support that Mallory and Dana offer each other. (04:47) – Ep. 37 Highlight: Vanessa Bohns and the Science of Influence. Click here to hear the podcast in its entirety.  (10:40) – When you are afraid of being too “sales-y.”  (13:20) – Defining the word “influencer” (14:39) – Episode 29 Highlight: Dominique James has thoughts to share on the power of everyday experts. Click here to listen. (16:00) – Episode 28 Highlight: Shukurat Adamoh-Faniyan shares thoughts on the important expertise and stories that nonprofits need to own! Click here to listen. (17:02) – Dealing with impostor syndrome  (21:25) – Episode 36 Highlight: Dethra Giles talks about dropping perfectionism in order to get to a place of ownership. Click here to listen. (22:58) – What happens when we avoid discomfort  (24:25) – Why are we so fearful of looking at things like donor or ad data?  (30:45) – Episode 05 Highlight: Habits expert BJ Fogg explains the concept of “shine”. Click here to hear more. (31:46) – Dana believes the metrics for “success” in fundraising must change.  (32:01) – Episode 38 Highlight. About the psychology of motivation and how it relates to donor behavior. Listen to the episode here. (33:05) – Donor stewardship/cultivation can present a “middle problem”. (37:27) – Finding the space for integration. (40:54) – Episode 47 Highlight: Fascinating conversation with Donor Relations Guru Lynne Wester about why we see people turn away from nonprofits. Click here for the episode. (42:40) – Dana touts the innovative partnering opportunities generated by new giving forums.  (45:10) – Two great podcasts to check out on the topic of creative partnering: Episode 41: How to Align Goals, Language and Perspectives to Create Win-Win-Win Cross-Sector Relationships, with Kate Williams. Episode 54: Confidently Claiming Next-Level Success Through Self-Awareness, Visibility and Brand Partnerships, with Julie Solomon. If you’d like to hear lots more of Dana’s thoughts, click here to access episodes of her Missions to Movements podcast! And please check out my Power Partners Formula and register for a masterclass here. For some quick self-discovery, you might like to take my Fundraising Superpower Quiz.  Support for this show is brought to you by Bloomerang. Our friends at Bloomerang really understand fundraisers, which is how they make donor management software that nonprofits like to use. To learn more about them, head on over to bloomerang.com/mallory.

Episode highlights:  (01:52) - Who is Hilary Doe? A fun reconnection from the past + Hilary’s journey from college to the present in the nonprofit world. (11:14) - What is long-run motivation?: How to find new donors and turn them into long-term givers and supporters of your organization.  (18:07) - The strength behind having a solid network: What Lisa hoped she knew as a young fundraiser. (23:54) - Connecting on a human level before anything else: How to make your mission alive and resonant through real human bonds.  (29:56) - On perfectionism and fear: The problem with over-controlling and the beauty of having balance and space for everyone to pitch in.   (34:30) - Create a living organism with the Snowflake Model: Hilary’s tips on creating a growing network. (39:19) - Is shapeshifting a fight or flight response?: How to not lose yourself and have a deep-rooted sense of self as an organization. (48:18) - Things to be aware of before dampening the magic in your nonprofit: Learning as you go and getting rid of ego. (52:42) - Finding strength in standing in unison + A shoutout to Hilary’s favorite nonprofit, The Institute for Women’s Policy Research!

In this episode of What the Fundraising, Mallory is diving deep into a topic that is often misunderstood yet holds immense potential for nonprofit fundraisers: Family Offices and Philanthropy. Her guest, Kerrie Mitchell, is the Managing Partner at FSO Partners, where she and her identical twin sister advise philanthropists, family offices, and nonprofits on how to maximize impact. Kerrie unpacks what a family office is, how these high-net-worth individuals manage their giving, and why relationship-building is at the core of accessing this unique donor segment. They explore the Speed of Trust from how to earn it, why it matters, and how family offices think differently from foundations or traditional major donors. With government funding freezes and economic uncertainty looming, they also discuss why now is the perfect time to start building these relationships. Kerrie shares actionable insights on approaching wealth advisors, creating meaningful donor experiences, and positioning your nonprofit as a trusted partner, all while navigating the nuanced world of ultra-high-net-worth philanthropy. Kerrie Mitchell is a philanthropic leader and strategist who builds partnerships and mobilizes diverse revenue streams. She has over two decades of experience in national and international fundraising, nonprofit operations, and delivering comprehensive philanthropic services for family offices. She is a believer in innovative and community-led solutions to address the most pressing opportunities for progress in the world. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn about the importance of relationship fundraising. Understand the family offices and their structure. Learn about the role of philanthropy in legacy planning. Discover how to think beyond the traditional lanes of fundraising. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Donor Perfect. Our friends at Donor Perfect really understand fundraising on so many levels. Stay aligned while working online with a seamless and secure payments experience for your donors and your team. Empower donors to give where they are, whenever they like, automate data entry, and process online, monthly, and mobile payments, and accept payments over the phone. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, stress seems to be the main course on our daily menu. Yet, amidst the chaos, there is a sweet solace waiting to be savored when we choose to connect. Jake Ernst, a therapist and clinical director of Straight Up Health in Toronto, Canada, specializes in working with young people and families facing challenging and stressful situations. He is a product of a close-knit family in a small town, and he developed a penchant for helping others early on. Despite the loss of his father in his teenage years, he found solace in connections, which led him to become a therapist. Moreover, through his work, Jake emphasizes the power of human connection, addressing modern stressors and advocating for solidarity through his podcast "This Isn't Therapy" and the newsletter "Just Trying To Help." In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the importance of slowing down in a fast-paced world driven by worry, hurry, alarm, and overwhelm (WHOA). Appreciate the fundamental role of relationships in healing and growth. Explore the concept of co-regulation and its role in maintaining calmness in others. Recognize the detrimental effects of co-escalation in perpetuating stress and anxiety. Foster healthier relationships and promote community support. Recognize the interconnectedness of individual and social well-being.    Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, Join Arash Javanbakht, psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC), as he delves into the intricate workings of fear and anxiety. With expertise spanning neuroscience, trauma research, and nonprofit fundraising, he offers a comprehensive exploration of how fear manifests in our brains, its evolutionary origins, and practical strategies for managing it in various aspects of life! Arash's clinical focus encompasses civilians, law enforcement, and refugees, particularly those affected by war trauma in regions like Syria and Iraq. Through STARC, he conducts groundbreaking research into the biological and psychological factors contributing to resilience and vulnerability in trauma response. Also, Arash pioneers the integration of technology into mental health care, exploring augmented reality and telemedicine for innovative in vivo treatment of anxiety disorders and PTSD. Moreover, his work has received widespread acclaim, featuring in prominent media outlets such as CNN, Al Jazeera, NPR, and The Washington Post. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the biology and psychology of fear responses. Analyze fear's influence on decision-making, particularly in nonprofit fundraising. Develop strategies for overcoming fear-related challenges. Cultivate resilience and find meaning in adversity. Apply practical tips for harnessing fear as motivation. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  This week's episode is sponsored by DonorPerfect.  DonorPerfect's Community Conference is igniting a passion for change! This year's event, on June 4th & 5th, will equip you with the tools to excel in donor management, program innovation, community engagement, and organizational growth. Remember, every powerful movement starts with a single spark.Your expertise is that spark! Head over to donorperfect.com/donorperfect-conference to register today! Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

This episode is a rallying cry for change within the nonprofit sector—an invitation to embrace vulnerability, authenticity, and mental well-being as essential components of effective fundraising. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges the status quo and offers hope for a more compassionate future in fundraising! Patrick Kirby, Founder of Do Good Better Consulting and author of "Fundraise Awesomer!", is a dynamic figure in the nonprofit sector. Patrick has dedicated more than ten years to various roles within the nonprofit sector, spanning organizations of diverse scales and scopes. Moreover, he sincerely believes in challenging traditional approaches and champions the mantra that "we've always done it this way" is perilous.   In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the tender balance between vulnerability and professionalism in fundraising. Learn about the human side of fundraising. Challenge the notion that fundraisers must suppress their emotions. Discuss the topic of mental health in the nonprofit world. Address the pressures faced by fundraisers. Advocate for a shift in mindset prioritizing self-care. Consider practical strategies for fostering a healthier work environment. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Instil. Our friends at Instil really understand what it means to build and manage relationships in a holistic and human-first way. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics smooth donor management to make it easy for you to connect every supporter to the impact of your work. To learn more head on over to www.instil.io/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point.

Feeling overwhelmed, lost, or perfectionistic when it comes to managing your social media? Not sure if your Instagram or Facebook posts are giving you a good ROI? This episode is for you! Today’s guest will certainly ease your mind with her tips and strategies for creating an amazing social media management strategy. Julia Campbell, Founder of J Campbell Social Marketing, has helped hundreds of nonprofits make the shift to digital thinking. What does that mean? Julia enables nonprofits to build communities and fundraise online, all while creating engaging social media platforms for their donors to connect through. Her consulting team provides social media audits, customized recommendations and reports, helps you build your own social media team, and learn how to use storytelling to grow an audience and spread your message online. In this episode, Julia teaches you how to manage your nonprofit’s social media like a master. You’ll learn strategies for onboarding a social media manager, creating magnetic content to attract and engage donors, dealing with negative comments, telling client stories ethically, and much more. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Givebutter for making this episode possible. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to be a magnetic fundraiser. Their fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Empathy, respect, and ethical responsibility are rooted in the practice of Trauma-Informed Storytelling. It recognizes that individuals who have experienced trauma often face challenges in regaining control, safety, and agency in their lives. This approach emphasizes giving people the power to decide how and when their stories are shared, ensuring that their dignity is upheld throughout the process. It's about striking a balance between crafting captivating narratives that inspire social change and fundraising while also protecting the well-being of storytellers and listeners. This approach encourages organizations to slow down, embrace small victories, and acknowledge that real change takes time. Maria Bryan is a speaker, and podcast host who helps storytellers safely gather and tell painful stories by speaking about trauma-informed storytelling. She assists storytellers in safely gathering and telling painful stories. She offers engaging virtual or in-person training for your upcoming conference, summit, retreat, or team/members. Storytellers will feel empowered with actionable insights and resources rooted in kindness and empathy. She joined us today to talk about the power of trauma-informed storytelling and guide us to tell stories ethically.  In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the importance of trauma-informed storytelling. Understand what trauma is. Learn about the ethical considerations of storytelling. Learn about the importance of having a harm-repair plan.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Donor Perfect. Our friends at Donor Perfect really understand fundraising on so many levels. Stay aligned while working online with a seamless and secure payments experience for your donors and your team. Empower donors to give where they are, whenever they like, automate data entry, and process online, monthly, and mobile payments, and accept payments over the phone. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point.

After last week’s episode with Seth Godin, we wanted to dig deeper into the marketing and content side of nonprofit fundraising. And this next episode definitely delivers. As nonprofits, we are constantly scrambling to come up with fresh, compelling stories to illustrate our missions, but are we being mindful? On this episode of What the Fundraising we’re pausing to take a hard look at content – and the harms our words can inadvertently cause. My guest Natalia Sanyal is applying a humanity-centered, anti-oppressive lens to the art and craft of copywriting. Having seen first-hand in her commercial career how even the most mindful of us can perpetuate hurtful language, she’s bringing tools to help raise our consciousness.  When she performs her copy audits on the average business, she uncovers terms that are exclusive, demeaning, or that undermine the organization’s core values. In this episode, we are untangling all of this, without judgment or shame.  Natalia believes we’re all figuring it out together and the first step is just to get honest. Among the topics we discuss: Manipulative writing tactics that don’t yield the results nonprofits desire. Positive ways to use psychological insight to secure donor participation and retention. How to avoid words and stories that can trigger negative responses. Why informed decision-making (or conscious choice) is important. What it means to build long-term trust with donors through honesty (not scare tactics).  Steps you can take to generate copy without generating harm. What it means to be an ethical, trauma-informed storyteller.  You’ll come away from this episode with thoughts and ideas to ensure your messaging is really capturing – rather than undermining – your organization’s ethos and achievements. “It’s all about not being fake and being transparent,” says Natalia, and it starts with intentional conversations like this one! If the content of this show resonated with you, then you definitely want to check out my Power Partners Formula and register for a FREE masterclass here. Support for this show is brought to you by Bloomerang. Our friends at Bloomerang really understand fundraisers, which is how they make donor management software that nonprofits like to use. To learn more about them, head on over to bloomerang.com/mallory.

Do you ever feel that you’re spinning your wheels or being penny-wise and pound-foolish? My guest on this episode of What the Fundraising is here with some straight talk about managing operations efficiently and effectively. A consultant who helps small businesses scale, Jhana Li is a systems thinker with a gift for optimizing organizations from both the 30,000-foot and three-foot levels. This conversation offers a framework to audit your organizational health. Plus practical tips for making change! Jhana walks us through core resources for early start-up development as well as key systems to support transformation through scaling stages. You’ll recognize some insights that are especially relevant to the nonprofit world. For instance: Are you a serial “helper” or “fix-it” addict who feels constantly compelled to do, facilitate, cure, and manage? Consider whether that behavior is actually serving you or the co-workers who – deprived of the opportunity to take on new tasks – forfeit an opportunity for growth. Or perhaps you default to a scarcity mindset that renders you too fearful to invest in important systems critical to sustaining your work? Jhana not only urges a shift of focus to the big-picture and all the resources you’re expending and can never get back, but she also gives tactical and practical ways to do so. This is the episode I wish I had as a Managing Director and Executive Director - it would have completely changed the way I looked at my organization's resources and planned for growth. Listen now to learn how to audit your organizational health & optimize your resources for growth.  You might also be interested in taking my Fundraising Superpower Quiz to learn more about you can optimize your natural fundraising talents. Episode Highlights: (02:20) – A brief intro to Jhana and her consulting (03:45) – Why it’s important for organizational plans to incorporate bespoke elements based on size and stage of business development (05:24) – Center early operations around these four core resources (08:50) Defining energy as a core resource  (10:05) Have you measured your effective hourly value?  (11:29) Time is the only core resource that appreciates (13:37) Personal task audits (15:13) How to let go and delegate (17:14) Mallory shares the realization that once prompted her to demote herself.  (18:35) Organizations at their best serve as a vehicle for growth among all stakeholders.  (22:10) About setting boundaries, especially in the helper-oriented nonprofit space.  (24:04) Saying no at the moment may be challenging, but the ROI is compelling.  (27:34) Mallory double-clicks on another facet of “helper energy” (which is so prominent in the nonprofit sector).  (28:48) Do you have a “fix-it” style of leadership? (29:58) Case Study: What would Jhana do to corral employees who have to be constantly reminded to fill out timecards?  (32:05) Want to maximize your team members’ performance?  (35:30) Getting decisive about investments in your nonprofit  (37:15) Try a time audit  (38:37) Learn more about Jhana and book a discovery session with her.

My special guest’s Catherine Ashton, Sara Hoshooley, Natalie Monroe, Jordana Merkin, and Katelyn Baughan join us to talk about ways to build stronger relationships through different marketing strategies with donors. We delve into the world of donor engagement and relationship building and discover the strategies and challenges faced by fundraisers in creating meaningful connections with donors. Have you heard these three myths about donor engagement and relationship building? Myth 1: Donors only care about the bottom line. Myth 2: Building relationships with donors takes too much time and effort. Myth 3: Donor engagement is only important during fundraising campaigns. In this episode, our guest speakers, Catherine Ashton, Sara Hoshooley, Natalie Monroe, Jordana Merkin, and Katelyn Baughan, will debunk these myths and reveal the truth behind the importance of donor engagement and relationship building for fundraisers and nonprofit professionals. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the vital role of donor engagement in enhancing your fundraising strategy and building sustainable relationships. Gain insightful knowledge on transitioning from transactional to connection-oriented and storytelling in fundraising. Uncover effective strategies to tailor your communication to donor preferences, increasing their loyalty and donations. Develop a deeper understanding of tracking metrics for evaluating campaign success in a more dynamic way. Identify the key balance between immediate fundraising goals and future-driven relationship-building techniques. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Bloomerang for making this episode possible. Bloomerang offers donor management and online fundraising software that helps small to medium nonprofits, like First Tee of Greater Akron, a nonprofit that empowers kids and teens through the game of golf. After just one year with Bloomerang they doubled their unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds. Head to bloomerang.com/whatthefundraising to learn more about Bloomerang.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization.

Shannon Lohr, Founder, and CEO of Factory45 helps her clients navigate the complexities involved in getting a sustainable clothing brand off the ground. What does this have to do with nonprofits? Well, her pragmatic advice applies to nonprofits too - everything from keeping your mindset right to how to prioritize the right brand and launch activities. We get into the nitty-gritty about things like content polishing, logo massaging, and font swapping that often keep us stuck from being more visible when we need to be focused on getting in front of our audience. Shannon and I share thoughts on the importance of knowing your own value and how to build confidence so you show up with that value in mind to all of your engagements. Enjoy this lively conversation with a woman who has carved out a unique coaching niche and is here with concrete marketing, sales, and other elements to consider as you look at ways to partner with, support, or start up a brand. Episode Highlights: (00:30) – Shannon introduces herself, gives the high-level on Factory45  (04:37) – The importance of content marketing to create problem aware audiences  (06:32) – Identifying a target customer or audience niche  (11:19) – Marketing and audience acquisition are key components to building the volume of donors and brand recognition that underpin a business model. (12:50) – About non-profit practices that bring value-add (13:49) – Mallory mentions her Asset Mapping tool, which highlights marketing and education as valuable components that non-profits can bring to business partners. (15:08) – About the emotional components Shannon’s clients work through on their journey  (22:13) – How to start to understand the value that you are bringing to the table  (27:50) – Shannon’s Top Tip for new entrepreneurs or non-profits just starting up: It’s all about putting one foot in front of the other. Don’t let perfection be the enemy of the good or procrastination paralyze you. Stay out of the weeds! (30:00) – Some of the top offenders that lead to analysis paralysis  (31:58) – What does Shannon do when she experiences imposter syndrome? (32:50) – Another strategy for getting unstuck (33:45) – The power of separating your identity from your non-profit  (35:40) – Shannon’s journey as a mom and the work/life balance  (40:00) – About the value of Factory45’s startup community: support, accountability, camaraderie, shared milestones and mentorship. Click here to learn more. Huge thanks to our episode’s sponsor, Pledge, and their amazing e-commerce platform that will help you build amazing cross-sector partnerships.

With a goal of ending the War on Drugs and reducing trauma all over the world, Rick Doblin is on a mission to liberate psychedelics and make them accessible to all. Rick is the Founder and Executive Director of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Research (MAPS). MAPS has raised $140 million in donations and grants over 36.5 years, with plans to increase that exponentially in the coming years. Rick is here to shed light on how he went from fearing LSD to trying it, loving it, and advocating for it until it became a global movement of human rights, freedom, and healing. He shares with you his wealth of knowledge and experience in fundraising for controversial research on LSD, MDMA, psilocybin, and more. By the end of this episode, you’ll learn how to strategically innovate a fundraising mission to tell a more influential and relatable story to donors. You’ll learn Rick’s greatest tips and advice on reducing stigmas and staying true to your purpose while advocating for a heavily stigmatized movement. Rick is an absolute legend in psychedelic research, fundraising, and drug policy reform, so tune in! In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How did psychedelic drugs become illegal in the United States, and what is the current state of psychedelic research? 2. How have psychedelic drugs been used in psychotherapy over the past 50 years, and how can they be used to reduce trauma? 3. What strategies have been used to raise money for psychedelic research, and how can donors be inspired to join the cause? Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Keela for making this episode possible. Our friends at Keela offer nonprofits like yours a comprehensive fundraising and donor management software, equipped with powerful tools to expand your reach, increase fundraising revenue, and foster a dedicated community of supporters. Want a user-friendly platform that provides actionable data? Look no further than Keela. Check out Keela at keela.co/mallory.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In the world of philanthropy, Jessica Channell Iler's journey was anything but ordinary. As the Director of Fundraising, Intelligence, Analytics, and Reporting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Jessica's navigated the labyrinth of higher education fundraising for two decades. Harnessing the power of data-driven decision-making, she's deftly amalgamated her knowledge of analytics and fundraising intelligence to build robust bonds between fundraisers and donors, blending the precision of data science with the delicate art of relationship-building. In this episode, Jessica and I delve into the intricate relationship between fundraising activities and donor behavior. There's a tendency in our sector to view donor behavior as a meteorological phenomenon - as if it randomly occurs without provocation. However, donor behavior often mirrors fundraiser actions; the latter acts as a leading indicator, while the former is a lagging indicator. I'm intrigued to explore what transpires when we scrutinize this correlation closely - which behaviors yield the most impact and thus require prioritization? What shifts when we actively track our actions, rather than solely focusing on the end result?  Jessica's current focus is on understanding the relationship between fundraising activities and donor behavior makes her the perfect person to discuss this with. Her mission is to uncover the drivers of productivity and to refine the approach, particularly in the mid-level giving space. Through her work, Jessica continues to inspire a culture of giving that is aligned with the interests and capacities of her constituents. In this episode, you will be able to: Illuminate the importance of accurately reading and tracking fundraiser and donor interactions. Understand how fundraiser behavior inspires donors to take action. Experience the power of focused prospect development in nurturing fundraiser-donor bonds. Identify key engagement pointers crucial for small nonprofit sustainability and progression. Discern the profound impact of true engagement, openness, and stewardship in fundraising activities.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Bloomerang for making this episode possible. Bloomerang offers donor management and online fundraising software that helps small to medium nonprofits, like First Tee of Greater Akron, a nonprofit that empowers kids and teens through the game of golf. After just one year with Bloomerang they doubled their unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds. Head to bloomerang.com/whatthefundraising to learn more about Bloomerang.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization.

Whether you are a nonprofit professional seeking to enhance your monthly giving program or a donor looking to make a meaningful impact, this episode promises to inspire and inform! Meet Caitlin Wion, Data Manager at Alzheimer's San Diego, who brings a rich background in museums and academia, complemented by a Master's degree in history, to her role. Her transition into the nonprofit sector was sparked by witnessing friends' satisfaction in similar database-related positions, leading her to join the team in 2018. In her role, Caitlin ensures the accuracy and currency of client and donor records, leveraging her problem-solving skills honed from previous experiences. Beyond the administrative tasks, Caitlin finds fulfillment in event interactions, relishing the opportunity to engage with the community firsthand. Driven by a personal connection to Alzheimer's, Caitlin's grandmother's battle with the disease also fuels her passion for the organization's mission. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the importance of seamless integration of monthly giving into operations. Recognize the impact of monthly donations on organizational programs. Learn strategies for building community among monthly donors. Discover the benefits of donor segmentation and personalized communication. Appreciate the value of a soft ask approach in fundraising communications. Learn to leverage automation tools while maintaining a personal touch. Understand the importance of data analysis in refining strategies. Recognize the significance of offering donors choices in giving preferences. Appreciate the importance of prioritizing donor experience for engagement. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne.  NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Have you met people in the fundraising space who think tech is a silver bullet? And because of that, they invest a lot of time and resources in making decisions around the tech adoption and fail to anticipate the implementation of the tech solution. It’s quite common, and the truth is that I was guilty of it as an Executive Director too. But we need to start talking about technology differently, as an facilitator and support system, with fundraiser enablement at the center of the product. And that’s exactly what we’re diving into today.   In this episode, Tim Sarrantonio, Director of Corporate Brand at NeonOne, shares his insight into the sector, and the new NeonOne CRM elements that he is particularly excited about. While Tim has been at NeonOne for 10 years, his journey in the sector began as a grant writer. Today, he shares nuggets of wisdom to help make fundraising easier with technology, and how to make the fundraiser's job easier with training, support, and community. NeonOne is all about Connected Fundraising and in this episode we get to dig into what that means and how that impacts the product, priorities, and process for continuous growth and improvement.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn And if you haven’t already, please come on over and visit our lively new What the Fundraising community forum. You can join the conversation at this link. Please note: This episode is a part of a very special series called The People Behind the Products. More than ever, nonprofits care about the company behind their technology and service providers. What’s the underlying mission and vision of the company? What do they stand for? And how are they thinking about the sector and serving nonprofits? This series is an opportunity to get to know some of my favorite nonprofit technology companies so that the next time you’re making a tech decision, you can understand a little bit more about the people behind the product. There is no sponsorship or industry money behind the production of this series and the editorial content was at the sole discretion of the What the Fundraising team. 

What the Fundraising the Podcast is for impact leaders and change-makers who are tired of doing things the old-school way and are looking for a fresh and effective way to raise money, run their organization, and think about the nonprofit sector.

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast… Today, we delve into the heart of community building with industry luminary Floyd Jones. Whether you're a nonprofit professional, community organizer, or aspiring change-maker, this conversation provides the tools, inspiration, and motivation to drive positive change in your community and beyond! Floyd Jones is the Community & Partnerships Lead at Givebutter, a pioneering fundraising platform facilitating over $150M in annual donations for more than 35,000 causes globally. In his role, Floyd supports the Community team's growth strategy via partnerships, sponsorships, strategic campaigns, and special events. He works directly with Givebutter's Product, Success, and Marketing teams to support overarching company goals. Moreover, Floyd's dedication to community growth extends beyond his current role. Previously, he spearheaded transformative initiatives at Volo, garnering substantial funds and acclaim while fostering widespread social change and corporate involvement.   In this episode, you will be able to: Discuss the importance of understanding data and metrics in driving impactful outcomes. Elucidate how forging meaningful connections and leveraging resources can propel communities toward collective success, with a focus on partnership, promotion, and people. Explore the challenges and triumphs of community leaders. Learn practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and achieving lasting impact. Reframe the approach, shift the mindset, and embark on a journey of growth and collaboration. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What the Fundraising, we get to talk to consultants Christal Cherry and Dr. Renee Rubin Ross who tackle the pervasive racism and white supremacy culture within nonprofit boards. Christal M. Cherry is an accomplished board consultant and the driving force behind The Board Pro. Based in Atlanta, Christal is passionate about assisting nonprofits nationwide in building stronger, more effective boards. Her work in the DEI space led her to collaborate with Dr. Renee Rubin Ross, a strategic planning facilitator, and the person in charge of Cal State East Bay's Nonprofit Management Certificate program.  With their shared passion for fostering diversity and inclusion, Christal and Renee tackle complex DEI issues within nonprofit boards. In this conversation they share how they often navigate resistance from board members uncomfortable with discussing white supremacy culture and biases. However, through patience and open dialogue, they witness transformative shifts in mindsets and behaviors. Christal and Renee emphasized the importance of transparency and personal reflection within organizations. Their approach encouraged boards to recognize their individual and collective responsibilities in creating diverse and inclusive environments. Through these experiences, the duo are powerful advocates for change within the nonprofit world, displaying the power of empathy and genuine understanding in making a real difference. In this episode, you will be able to: Grasp the crucial role of DEI in fostering robust and effective nonprofit board leadership. Identify micro- and macro-aggressions in board environments that hinder a respectful and inclusive culture. Explore innovative approaches for achieving diversity and inclusion on boards, leading to enriched decision-making. Recognize the importance of listening to and validating all board members for a more cohesive and functional organization. Embrace change and challenge the status quo to facilitate progressive board transformations. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Givebutter for making this episode possible. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to be a magnetic fundraiser. Their fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Are you ready for a conversation that inspires reflection, change, and a deeper understanding of the human side of fundraising? Today's episode is about the intricate dynamics and challenges within fundraising, Philanthropy, and nonprofit leadership. Join us as we dissect the nuances of the sector, exploring topics such as building authentic relationships, navigating organizational culture, and balancing authenticity and self-preservation with April Walker. April, a seasoned philanthropist with a rich fundraising, consulting, and grantmaking background, has dedicated her career to organizations like the American Heart Association, Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago, CCS Fundraising, VNA Foundation, and Iris Krieg & Associates. Hailing from Baltimore and holding a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago, she is deeply committed to advancing Philanthropy grounded in racial equity and social justice. As the founder of Philanthropy for the People, April's expertise shines, reflecting her passion for making a positive impact. She currently serves on the boards of Arts Impact and the Cuyahoga County Public Library Foundation, showcasing her unwavering dedication to community development.   In this episode, you will be able to: Identify the challenges faced by fundraisers and nonprofits in the philanthropic space. Reflect on the delicate balance between vulnerability and safety for fundraisers. Evaluate the importance of creating safe spaces for fundraisers to share their experiences. Examine issues such as harassment on the job and the emotional toll of navigating performative environments. Learn strategies for fundraisers to build genuine relationships with donors. Explore ways to find joy and satisfaction in the fundraising profession. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Instil. Our friends at Instil really understand what it means to build and manage relationships in a holistic and human-first way. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics smooth donor management to make it easy for you to connect every supporter to the impact of your work. To learn more head on over to www.instil.io/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Today's guest champions the art of transparent financial conversations and strategic relationship-building. She encourages starting discussions with financial priorities, framing money as a transformative tool, and embracing proactive action while fostering genuine dialogue and understanding to drive impactful social change. Meet Lisa Maynard-Atem, an entrepreneur, public speaker, and member of the General Assembly of the University of Manchester. As a founder member and former Managing Director of the award-winning Black United Representation Network (BURN CIC), she focuses on the economic and social empowerment of the Black community in Northern England. With a strong marketing and social media background, she led Harrods' social media growth from 30,000 to over 2.5M followers. She was also part of the leadership team at Acacia Training as Director of Marketing & Inclusion. In this episode, you will be able to:  Address money topics directly in social justice settings. Frame Funding Requests: Emphasize the impact and clarity of financial asks. Adapt Discussions: Tailor financial talks to individual board members' comfort levels. Engage Investors: Take investors on a journey rather than waiting for ideal timing. Act Timely: Prioritize proactive communication and manage rejection. Support Allyship: Use honest dialogue and reverse mentoring to better support diverse fundraisers. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Pledge. Our friends at pledge have just launched a super easy way to get your campaigns up and running using some pretty cool AI technology. Check out their newest tools pledge.to Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

What are the most common mistakes made by an organization when looking for funding? In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, I talked to Dulari Gandhi, a Program Officer at the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation and the CEO of D. Gandhi Communications. As a money facilitator and an ambassador for organizations inside her institution, Dulari deeply believes in transparency, putting an end to the cycle of desperation, and having people with diverse backgrounds making decisions. Join this conversation and listen to this amazing expert and human give you an inside look at how foundations make decisions and give us all a call to action about how we can show up for this sector more strategically. Episode highlights:  (01:29) - Who is Dulari Gandhi? Her story in the nonprofit world and social impact communications.  (08:18) - Is fundraising a gate-kept community? Why we need to have more diverse profiles making decisions.   (12:05) - Funder Lenses: How is it finding an adequate partner from a funders perspective? (17:31) - Convince a funder on a new alignment! : Researching, pitching a great proposal, and taking honest risks.  (25:10) - How can grantees support their funders? Good practices to help your program officer be your ideal advocate.  (34:40) - We are all in this together: Power dynamics between grantees and funders and the misconceptions of the system.  (39:09) - Why scarcity mindset is your #1 enemy: The nonprofit’s perception of money + how to escape the cycle of desperation.  (50:10) - Where to find Dulari and a last piece of advice: Take action and engage in local efforts for your community:  If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their nonprofit's fundraising strategy through multi-channel integration and innovative thinking! Today, we are joined by Dan Sonners, a seasoned expert in the fundraising industry with a 17-year career dedicated to empowering nonprofit organizations to discover new donors, raise more funds, and optimize their programs with innovative strategies. Throughout this conversation, he shares practical advice on testing and measuring the effectiveness of integrated marketing strategies. Moreover, he challenges fundraisers to seek knowledge beyond their specialties to build more substantial and collaborative fundraising efforts. As Vice President at Conrad Direct, Dan oversees acquisition efforts for a diverse group of nonprofits, utilizing a data-driven approach to provide tailored lists and media recommendations. His role encompasses various aspects of donor acquisition, including results analysis, list planning, data segmentation, list modeling, co-op management, and multi-channel expansion. Also, Dan excels in tailoring bespoke solutions that align with the distinctive missions, goals, and market dynamics of various organizations. His adept strategies have garnered millions of donors and propelled revenue into the hundreds of millions. Additionally, he is the esteemed host of the Dynamic Nonprofits podcast.   In this episode, you will be able to: - Understand the power of multi-channel marketing and integrating direct mail with digital strategies. - Discover the benefits of combining direct mail with SMS, email, and social media. - Explore breaking down silos and fostering cross-channel collaboration. - See how connected TV and direct mail can capture and maintain donor attention. - Recognize the value of a data-driven approach in optimizing fundraising strategies. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  "This week's episode is sponsored by Keela. Keela is a fundraiser’s CRM, meaning that it goes beyond a data management platform. It enhances your work and propels you to achieve fundraising success. From email and communications tools to AI-powered donation pages, your unique needs will be met with Keela, the CRM built BY fundraisers FOR fundraisers. Learn more at keela.co/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Inside this episode, I touch on a major golden nugget that isn’t about fundraising strategy at all, but rather involves personal growth strategies surrounding human psychology, which is a larger key element we don’t highlight enough.  I define the comfortable elements of the fundraiser hustle (you’ll get what I mean when you listen) and how that hustle mindset isn’t productive but rather detrimental in how we strive toward accomplishing our goals.  I dissect this concept and talk about self-coaching tools you can implement now to start changing your mindset which in turn will help improve all facets of how you fundraise and how you can push through both personal and organizational challenges.  This episode is a part of a mini-series on donor retention thanks to our incredible sponsors at DonorPerfect. DonorPerfect has a lot of free educational resources for fundraisers. Learn more and download some of their guides and tools today at donorperfect.com/mallory

What does it look like to use our power and privilege for good? In some cases it involves us speaking out, in others it involves us getting quiet and listening. How do you know what to do when? Maggie Doyne and I explore all of this and more in this week’s episode of What the Fundraising. Maggie has been hailed as CNN Hero of the Year and criticized for perpetuating the white savior narrative, and she has something to say about both. As many people know, at 19 years old, Maggie set off on a gap year that ultimately led her to Co-Found BlinkNow and personally adopt almost 60 Nepalese children. Her story is complicated, inspiring, nuanced, beautiful, and painful. And through her new book, "Between the Mountain and Sky: A Mother's Story of Love, Loss, Healing, and Hope" Maggie lets us walk with her through so many of the ups and downs of her journey. In this episode, Maggie and I untangle some of the duality that Maggie and BlinkNow experienced when the media would cover Maggie's inspiring story.  For example, opportunities and funding for the nonprofit were realized because Maggie was from a suburban town in New Jersey, while at the same time the media narrative about the organization would often leave out the most important part - that the organization was primarily driven by local leadership and solutions from inside the local community. While Maggie was attempting to partner with the local community in the most humble and ethical way, the media clickbait stories about her work caused harm and, as she reflects back, that is something she wishes she had corrected and spoken up more about at the moment.  Maggie talks about her commitment to using her whiteness as an ally, to elevate the voices and the stories around her and not be the center of the story. And in this conversation, we explore the learning journey that has led to her stepping back in this way.  We often approach conversations like this in binary ways - good/bad, right/wrong, ethical/unethical but what this conversation creates is an opening for more curiosity, wonder, learning, and listening.  We talk about how the nonprofit sector as a whole can do better, starting with a commitment to learning from one another. We also discuss the power of vulnerability as a teacher and storytelling as a tool; why it’s important to deploy an inside-out approach that honors the people who know best, the ones on the ground. If you’d like to support BlinkNow's work in Nepal, please consider getting involved with one of their many amazing donor opportunities. You can also visit your favorite independent bookstore or click here to purchase a copy of "Between the Mountain and Sky: A Mother's Story of Love, Loss, Healing, and Hope." Many thanks to our sponsor, Learn Grant Writing, an online learning experience that makes grant writing approachable and fun. If you want to learn more about how to align your fundraising and grant writing practices - watch a FREE fireside chat with me and the Meredith → learngrantwriting.com/mallory  

You could sit back and relax if only you had a big celebrity attached to your nonprofit, right? Well not quite, as my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising explains. For all her professional skills and the competent staff behind Usher's New Look, President & CEO Careshia Moore still works hard to keep the organization financially healthy, vibrant and strong. Even with the deep, long-term involvement of a major performer like Usher Raymond IV and his mother, Jonetta Patton, no organization is sustainable without multi-level buy-in, sponsorship and community engagement. Fortunately, Careshia and her team are up to the challenge!  In this episode, you’ll learn about the roots of Usher's New Look’s and how it has transformed the lives of more than 50,000 under-resourced young people in Atlanta and New York. Their remarkable programs develop global leaders by sparking their passion and breaking down barriers to entry – whether it be access to quality education, internships or career opportunities. In our conversation, we also explore what it means to operate from a position of abundance, which is often hard for fundraisers (who feel perpetually beholden). Careshia is all about speaking up, owning the power of what her organization brings to the table and offering donors a chance to contribute in multiple capacities. And speaking of capacity, here’s something important to consider: Overhead shouldn’t be a source of shame, says Careshia. It’s actually an opportunity for funders to get involved in the infrastructure that supports all those programs that make everyone feel so good! This conversation is full of actionable strategies, operational and budgetary priority recommendations for unpredictable times and new ways to think about ourselves as mission-driven professionals running enterprises that just happen to have a different tax status.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Many thanks to our sponsor, Neon One, the all-in-one donor management system that keeps small and midsized nonprofits on track with fundraising, communications, events, volunteers, and more. You can learn about Neon One's entire suite of products and services here. If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point!

Are you ready to get uncomfortable? Whether in the nonprofit sector or the entrepreneurial startup space, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising is advocating for a growth mindset that says “okay!” to rejection, makes friends with Imposter Syndrome and just says no to self-critic noise. Estelle Giraud, CEO & Co-Founder of Trellis Health, demonstrates the power of honoring ourselves – even when important funding conversations go south. Pitching a comprehensive health data platform in the hyper-competitive world of venture capital is not for the faint of heart, which is why Estelle has very deliberately chosen to embrace setbacks as nothing more than an opportunity to learn and move on. In other words, it’s nothing personal! For many of us, this isn’t easy to do. But even if the answer is no, we have the right to take up space – without apology. Because remember, as Estelle says, If you’re not getting hit with lots of rejections, you’re probably not aiming high enough! In this conversation, we explore important self-awareness and growing-edge tools, sharing with you some of the strategies we’ve seen work to create safety and somatic calming. And Estelle is also giving us the gift of vulnerability, sharing how she has weathered disheartening rejection by relying on simple, potent strategies to reconnect with her most grounded self. We talk about the mindset women need to take into the board room, whether on behalf of a nonprofit or a startup venture – one that recognizes the valuable skills and impact we’re offering in exchange for funding. We are not beholden! And we are also not without the resources to cultivate wellness in body, mind and spirit. It starts, says Estelle, with a willingness to be honest with – and present to – each other. “There's benefit to sharing some of that (fundraising) journey and learnings, even if it's not perfectly wrapped up in a little bow and successful,” she says. “There is benefit in sharing a raw process as it happens.” Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Many thanks to our sponsor, Neon One, the all-in-one donor management system that keeps small and midsized nonprofits on track with fundraising, communications, events, volunteers, and more. You can learn about Neon One's entire suite of products and services here. If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point!

In this episode, we talk with Kimberley Pittman-Schulz. For over 20 years, Kimberley has been the guiding hand behind successful donor strategies for major universities and child development organizations globally. Known for her candid approach, she whole-heartedly steps foot into territories many avoid – discussing end-of-life matters and grieving. A passion for supporting people through loss prompted her to become a grief and life transitions mentor, providing compassionate guidance during times of profound change. And now she has connected her work as a grief counselor to her work with nonprofits through legacy giving guidance. There is so much about legacy giving that we don’t understand as a sector, and many of us avoid the topic altogether because of the vulnerabilities it activates. Which is exactly why I wanted to navigate these waters with Kimberly.  The truth is, the world of philanthropy was not where Kimberley Pittman-Schulz expected to find her life's purpose. Having worked extensively in various roles over 20 years, she gradually found herself becoming a bridge between donors and the organizations they wished to support. She facilitated conversations around grief, loss, and end-of-life decisions - topics often avoided by even the most seasoned professionals. Yet, in those emotionally charged conversations, Kimberley found a deep well of understanding and connection. She discovered the transformative power of these discussions on donors' giving patterns and their perception of legacy. Her unique ability to empathize and engage without crossing professional boundaries earned her the admiration and trust of her donors, and a fulfilling career that brought a profound sense of purpose and meaning to her life. This episode will help you…. Understand the art of deepening donor relationships through legacy giving. Realize the profound impact of comprehending your donors' driving forces in fostering substantial involvement. Gain knowledge on navigating sensitive matters around loss and grief, and how it promotes donor trust and openness. Understand the vast potential of planned giving and how it unlocks more than mere financial gains. Unearth expert techniques to confirm and fulfill donor intentions within the complex realm of estate planning. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our incredible sponsors at DonorPerfect. DonorPerfect has a lot of free educational resources for fundraisers. Learn more and download some of their guides and tools today at donorperfect.com/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. 

Executing a successful fundraising event can be daunting, but there are simple strategies you can use to plan a highly engaging, creative, and enjoyable fundraiser with less stress and more ease. Meet A.J. Steinberg, CFRE, a non-profit event producer and engagement strategist who’s raised millions of dollars for organizations through her LA-based company, Queen Bee Fundraising. A.J. is an expert on non-profit event planning, event sponsorships, committee and volunteer leadership, generational giving, and guest engagement.    In this episode, you’ll learn A.J.’s best tips and strategies for planning and executing successful, engaging fundraising events – from free family events to exquisite galas. She touches on everything from creative sponsorship ideas to mobile bidding to preventing post-event burnout. Ready to start planning your next fundraising event? This episode is for you! Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Givebutter for making this episode possible. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to be a magnetic fundraiser. Their fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

The infinitely wise Sheri Riley is an Empowerment Speaker, High-Performance Life Coach, and Award-Winning Author of the book Exponential Living: Stop Spending 100% of Your Time on 10% of Who You Are. In this episode, she shares what is Exponential Living and some of the 9 principles included in her book to pursue peace, choose clarity and live courageously. Sheri’s work as a life strategist can help anyone achieve their better self, but I find it especially helpful for fundraisers that might feel stuck, filled with self-doubt, or worried about hitting their goals. You do not want to miss this conversation with this super-inspirational coach! Episode highlights:  (01:40) - Who is Sheri Riley? Her small-town background, plus her super successful present as a life coach, entrepreneur, and awarded author. (06:29) - What is Exponential Living? Pursuing peace, choosing clarity, and living courageously. (09:30) - Go get it!: Own your inner calm, and allow confidence and drive to work together. (13:56) - How worthy and confident do you feel? Why your service work is not about martyrdom and guilt. (21:09) - Validation and hustling: Money mindset and how our own limiting beliefs leak into our work. (26:14) - Are you courageous enough to be faithful to yourself? How to become ready, willing, and committed, and move past crippling fear. (37:29) - The difference between fear and intuition: The prism of possibility vs. the condemnation of judgment.  (45:56) - Own your story and become a magnet!: Sheri’s own story doing the work and becoming her better self.  (49:37) - Where to find Sheri + A shoutout to the Huguely Scholarship Fund!

Vanessa Bohns is a psychologist, award-winning researcher, and professor of organizational behavior at Cornell University. Plus she is the author of an amazing book that I encourage everyone to read, You Have More Influence Than You Think. Today, Vanessa joins the show to talk about influence and the ways that we as fundraisers might underestimate our own, especially when it comes to making the big ask! Vanessa shares how important it is to talk transparently without making assumptions that can hold our organizations back or restrict funding in unnecessary ways. Join this conversation and learn science’s most valuable takes on influence and trust-building for fundraisers! And don’t forget to listen to Part II of this conversation! Episode highlights:  PART I (02:32) - Introducing Vannesa Bohns: An experimental social psychologist that approaches social influence in professional decision making. (09:03) - How are fundraisers underestimating their influence? Vanessa’s reading on rejection and how to create environments of conscious choice based on her book. (18:31) - The impact video has on influence and fundraising: How does video fit amongst in-person and email modes of communication? (21:49) - Follow-up requests: What happens when someone says no the first time? Understanding situational and circumstantial elements of rejection (25:59) - Implications of the fact that 75% of fundraisers are women: Gender differences in how likely people are to ask. (27:59) - Vanessa’s three main takeaways on influence consciousness for fundraisers. (29:28) - Contact info and Vannessa’s shout out to a non-profit near and dear to her heart.

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, In this episode, Mallory explores the convergence of AI and fundraising and addresses common inquiries to clarify AI's role in nonprofit fundraising. Also, she offers perspectives on the ethical use of AI and how it aligns with improving the well-being of fundraisers by reducing stress and increasing empowerment. Moreover, Mallory shares about the upcoming fundraising AI global summit held on October 23rd and 24th. This summit promises to be a transformative experience, featuring technology experts, one-on-one content, and comprehensive discussions on AI in fundraising. Whether you're new to AI or a seasoned expert, this summit is a must-attend event to unlock the full potential of AI in your fundraising efforts. So, mark your calendars and prepare to embark on a journey towards responsible AI usage, empowerment, and fundraising success. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking summit—your path to becoming an emboldened and enabled fundraiser starts here!   In this episode, you will be able to: Explore AI as a tool to address specific challenges and pain points in fundraising rather than treating it as a quick fix or "shiny object." Analyze how AI can influence motivation, ability, and prompts in fundraising scenarios. Ask three crucial questions: Was there a prompt? How can the action be made easier? How can motivation be managed effectively? ; When faced with fundraising challenges. Approach AI decision-making by identifying the challenges and problems you face in fundraising rather than centering the technology itself. Engage with AI in fundraising to empower your work and avoid treating AI as a mere trend or buzzword. Consider attending the first-ever fundraising AI global summit on October 23rd and 24th, featuring technology experts and valuable one-on-one content! Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, iWave for making this episode possible. Our friends at iWave help nonprofits identify, qualify, and retain donors to raise more major gifts. Using their comprehensive software, iWave gives you access to the industry’s highest quality wealth and philanthropic information so you can determine who to ask, how much to ask for, and when to ask. To get a demo and learn more, check out iWave. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What the Fundraising, I am interviewing the amazing Nisha Anand, a boundary-buster, common ground creator, non-violent culture-creator, outside-the-box experimenter, and national leader for social and racial justice. Once a grassroots activist arrested in Burma for pro-democracy demonstrations, Nisha is known today as a leader in cultivating unlikely and unconventional partnerships to create change. As Dream.Org’s CEO, Nisha guides a team of storytellers, organizers, and policy experts working on some of society’s toughest problems to create a better future for all. Understanding the nuances of human emotions, Nisha leverages inclusivity and unity to create policies that appeal to both sides of the aisle. Her vision is rooted in the belief that progress should never leave anyone behind – a philosophy borne out of her own experiences as an immigrant. Being comfortable with her blind spots and valuing individual liberty as much as equity, Nisha's journey is a testament to the power of love, trust, and the relentless pursuit of inclusivity and progress. And in a world that is increasingly polarized, her perspective is a breath of fresh air.  We’ll talk about Nisha’s approach to bipartisanship and her focus is on inclusive legislation that brings unlike allies together. We talk about how to effectively navigate bipartisanship while advancing transformative agendas, and the pushback you might receive from funders or folks who have a strong resistance to working across belief areas. We also discuss strategic ways to turn fundraising into a potent organizing strategy and how to confidently address the money talk hurdle in your fundraising endeavors. There is so much here for community leaders, organizers, and fundraisers. In this episode, you will: Experience firsthand how radical inclusivity can profoundly influence policy creation. Get equipped with effective techniques to maneuver through bipartisanship. Reveal how fundraising can serve as a formidable organizing tool. Break down the obstacles surrounding financial conversations in your fundraising trajectory. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Bloomerang for making this episode possible. Bloomerang offers donor management and online fundraising software that helps small to medium nonprofits, like First Tee of Greater Akron, a nonprofit that empowers kids and teens through the game of golf. After just one year with Bloomerang they doubled their unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds. Head to bloomerang.com/whatthefundraising to learn more about Bloomerang.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization.

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast. Mallory is joined by Jeremy Brown, the visionary behind Social Impact World, a vibrant global community of over 2,000 corporate social impact professionals. Together, they explore what it takes to sustain social impact initiatives inside corporations, especially as the economic landscape shifts and companies reassess their values.  Jeremy’s journey into social impact began after working in corporate America, where he saw a small priority on giving back. The spark of his passion for fostering social responsibility happened when he joined a startup with a Salesforce-inspired culture of volunteering. He founded Startups Get Back in 2014, eventually leading to Social Impact World, a platform where social impact leaders can connect, learn, and collaborate, leading to its first in-person conference in 2024.  In this episode, you will be able to, Learn about the challenge of isolation faced by the social impact leaders.  Discover the role of commitment in long-term relationships.  Learn how to transform social impact into a revenue generator.  Learn how to adapt to the evolving social impact landscape.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Donor Perfect. Our friends at Donor Perfect really understand fundraising on so many levels. Stay aligned while working online with a seamless and secure payments experience for your donors and your team.Empower donors to give where they are, whenever they like, automate data entry, and process online, monthly, and mobile payments, and accept payments over the phone. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

The truth is, all limiting beliefs aside, we can make giving fun. And Max Friedman and the team at Givebutter are proving this to be true each and every day. They have created a crowdfunding platform that seeks to raise funds that will empower the next generation of changemakers. In this episode of What the Fundraising I get to talk to Max about his entrepreneurial journey, from starting in his college dorm room, to what it’s like to be a 27 year old leader of a rising tech company. There are so many great fundraising tips in this episode, from automation suggestions to effective prompts to innovative engagement strategies, but my favorite topic that we talk about is Max’s imposter syndrome. Max, like all of us, experiences moments of self-doubt and his vulnerability in this episode is a true gift to the sector. He talks to us about how he manages his imposter syndrome and his top tips for nonprofit leaders dealing with similar doubts. You don’t want to miss this episode!  [02:48] Understanding Max’s journey to founding Givebutter. [03:57] How Givebutter has evolved over the years. [05:53] Max narrates his experience with non-profits.. [08:10] How Max deals with his imposter syndrome. [11:43] The fundraising space needs to go back to the basics.  [13:06] Are we over automating in a way that leads to a loss in authenticity and connection?  [16:02] Social media and authenticity. [18:07] How you can prompt people to give. [21:32] Hear how Max keeps himself motivated when he is having hard days. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Ready to streamline and modernize your organization’s fundraising strategy? Smash through stumbling blocks with my VIP Day, an intensive one-to-one executive coaching experience. You can also click here to learn how I can work with you to pinpoint problems, develop a clear plan, and create content and design habits to support your nonprofit in achieving its goals. This episode is a part of a very special series called The People Behind the Products. More than ever, nonprofits care about the company behind their technology and service providers. What’s the underlying mission and vision of the company? What do they stand for? And how are they thinking about the sector and serving nonprofits? This series is an opportunity to get to know some of my favorite nonprofit technology companies so that the next time you’re making a tech decision, you can understand a little bit more about the people behind the product. This series is unsponsored content and editorial decisions came from the What the Fundraising production team.

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, This episode unfolds through a captivating exploration of various dimensions of motivation, work dynamics, and the interplay between intrinsic motivation, passion, and potential exploitation. Today's guest, Mijeong Kwon, is an Assistant Professor of Management at the University of Colorado Denver Business School. Her research focuses on the social dynamics of work motivation, explicitly exploring how individuals articulate their reasons for working and assess their peers based on their motivations for employment.  In her recent paper, Mijeong, alongside her colleagues, delved into the intriguing connection between a love for one's work and the perception of intrinsic motivation as a moral virtue. The study revealed that those who view intrinsic motivation as morally virtuous tend to consider working for money and recognition immoral. In this episode, you will be able to:   Learn about "passion exploitation" Challenge societal discounting of intrinsic motivations Examine the moralization of work Unravel the connection between intrinsic motivation and burnout Learn the leadership's role in motivation acknowledgment Reflect on the multifaceted nature of motivation Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Instil. Our friends at Instil really understand what it means to build and manage relationships in a holistic and human-first way. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics smooth donor management to make it easy for you to connect every supporter to the impact of your work. To learn more head on over to www.instil.io/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

All of you are welcome for an open and insightful discussion about philanthropy based on trust. Today, our guest draws upon extensive experience to encourage both donors and nonprofit organizations to engage in a path toward community partnerships that are more significant and impactful. In this episode, we sit down with John Brothers, a seasoned advocate for trust-based philanthropy and President of the T. Rowe Price Foundation, to unravel the intricacies of fostering genuine relationships between funders and nonprofits. John candidly shares his insights on transforming traditional philanthropic models and the journey toward a more transparent and community-centric approach. John Brothers is presently the President of the T. Rowe Price Foundation and holds the position of President for the Program for Charitable Giving. Before joining T. Rowe Price, John founded and led Quidoo Consulting, an international consulting firm, for over ten years. During his tenure at Quidoo, he played a crucial role in expanding the firm and collaborating with more than 400 clients across twelve countries worldwide. Also, John holds a Doctorate in Law and Policy from Northeastern University, an MPA in Nonprofit Management from New York University, and an MBA in Public Policy from American Public University, where he initially began at Columbia.   In this episode, you will be able to: Recognize the origins of trust-based philanthropy Learn about challenges and harmful power dynamics within the fundraising and philanthropy industry. Evaluate the existing thinking around philanthropy and advocate for a paradigm shift. Delve into the importance of governance in the nonprofit sector. Establish new success metrics beyond the mere securing of grants. Make connections between philanthropy and the concept of wellness as a continual journey rather than a checklist. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Instil. Our friends at Instil really understand what it means to build and manage relationships in a holistic and human-first way. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics smooth donor management to make it easy for you to connect every supporter to the impact of your work. To learn more head on over to www.instil.io/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

This week’s episode shares a sensational live conversation Mallory had with Seth Godin and Floyd Jones, focusing on exploring the impact of AI on productivity and community building. Seth Godin is an author, entrepreneur, and teacher. He is the founder of the Carbon Almanac, a guide to understanding climate change. Seth has inspired and motivated many people all around the world by focusing on everything from leadership and efficient marketing to spreading ideas and changing things. In 2013, the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame recognized only three practitioners, including Seth. Floyd Jones is a speaker, social impact leader, creator, and community builder. He is the Director of Community & Partnerships at Givebutter, the world's first entirely free end-to-end fundraising platform. He supports the community team's growth strategy through partnerships, sponsorships, strategic campaigns, and special events. In this episode, you will be able to: The importance of staying true to innovations rather than adopting existing methods. The necessity of overcoming the fear of the unknown. The importance of prioritizing human connection in fundraising. How to embrace the AI. How AI affects the transparency. Why is it important to remember the power of people?  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point.

SEO. The mention of those three little letters sends many of us in the nonprofit sector scurrying for cover. But spend a little time with my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising and I promise you’ll feel empowered to explore all things Search Engine Optimization! Rafi Norberg, President of Nexus Marketing, walks us through what it means to raise your online profile and shares some great (free!) tools to get even the most tech-phobic among us started. You’ll be interested in hearing how the world of digital marketing has evolved over the eight years since Rafi founded his company and the ways in which he has pivoted. Riding the tides of change and a human-centric approach, Nexus has kept the work fresh, engaging and organically satisfying. How? By emphasizing a collaborative, relationship-based approach to getting the job done. Whether we’re talking community awareness or donor engagement, Ravi believes that partnerships are foundational to growth. “Being open to more conversations generally leads to different opportunities,” he says. “If you're overly exclusive … it actually makes the process of building your digital brand very difficult.” Ready to raise your online profile and boost your outreach? This episode will give you the digital insights and tools you need to get started on that path! Get all the resources and timestamps from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Have you stopped by our new What the Fundraising community forum? Check it out and join the conversation at this link. Ready to streamline and modernize your organization’s fundraising strategy? Smash through stumbling blocks with my VIP Day, an intensive one-to-one executive coaching experience. You can also click here to learn how I can work with you to pinpoint problems, develop a clear plan, and create content and design habits to support your nonprofit in achieving its goals. Please note: This episode is a part of a very special series called The People Behind the Products. More than ever, nonprofits care about the company behind their technology and service providers. What’s the underlying mission and vision of the company? What do they stand for? And how are they thinking about the sector and serving nonprofits? This series is an opportunity to get to know some of my favorite nonprofit technology companies so that the next time you’re making a tech decision, you can understand a little bit more about the people behind the product. There is no sponsorship or industry money behind the production of this series and the editorial content was at the sole discretion of the What the Fundraising team.

Do you want to enhance your design practices and create more equitable outcomes for marginalized communities? Are you seeking a solution to incorporate human-centered design into your nonprofit organization? Look no further! Our guest, Sheryl Cababa, will be sharing the key to achieving improved design practices and fostering greater equity in the nonprofit sector. Join us as we explore how to create meaningful impact and drive positive change within your organization, resulting in more inclusive and equitable outcomes for all. Sheryl Cababa is a staunch believer in human-centered and equity-centered design. Pioneering her way through the design landscape, Sheryl currently leads as the Chief Strategy Officer at Substantial, a transformative design studio ensuring that design solutions are informed by the real lived experiences and contexts of the end users. With a design background shaped by industry giants like Microsoft and Philips, she has a unique ability to understand and weave the intricacies of design thinking with profound empathy for human experiences. Sheryl is particularly focused on uplifting historically marginalized voices in the education sector, crafting tools and solutions that approach the user experience innovatively and equitably. In this episode, you will be able to: Unearth the role of human-based design in empowering nonprofits to deliver real change. Recognize the significance of equity in design practices, catalyzing inclusive and effective solutions. Grasp the unique struggles that come with implementing human-centered design in the nonprofit landscape. Expose potential imbalances in power dynamics during design processes and their consequences. Reimagine fundraising through a fresh perspective rooted in empathy and long-term sustainability. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Constant Contact for making this episode possible. Our friends at Constant Contact provide nonprofit leaders like you with cutting-edge email and social media management tools. Want to craft emails that shine on every device or manage your social media effortlessly? And for those moments you're at a loss for words, their AI Content Generator, powered by ChatGPT, delivers engaging messages in mere seconds. For a platform that amplifies your marketing, saves time, and drives growth, look no further than Constant Contact. Get started with your risk-free trial using the promo code 'MALLORY' for 30% off your first three months. Discover more at www.constantcontact.com/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Embark on a journey into the world of fundraising, where seasoned professionals share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-evolving landscape of non-profit work. In this podcast, we delve into the heart of the matter—balancing the demands of parenthood with the intricacies of fundraising careers.  Our guest today, Lacey Kempinski, is a dynamic force dedicated to transforming the landscape of the non-profit sector. With an illustrious 15-year career in the non-profit realm, Lacey has honed her expertise in donor communications, major gifts, annual fund management, strategic planning, and leadership. However, her most profound revelation came from the heart—realizing the inherent challenge of balancing a thriving career with the demands of motherhood within the traditional 'in-house' fundraising model. Passionate about addressing the struggles faced by working parents, especially in the mission-driven non-profit sector, Lacey embarked on a mission to redefine the narrative. Recognizing the toll on organizational well-being due to burnout and turnover, she envisioned a solution—thoughtful, well-supported parental leave. Lacey firmly believes that the non-profit sector can nurture stronger, more present, and more productive professionals by championing working parents. In doing so, she aspires to inspire the next generation of changemakers—our children.  In this episode, you will be able to:  Discover more about the intentional onboarding process. Discover a comprehensive approach to parental leave planning in the non-profit sector. Understand the emotional terrain of returning to work. Explore about building a supportive village. Learn how to bridge the gap between parenthood and professional success. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Overflow, for making this episode possible. This all-in-one platform features some of the lowest cash processing fees in the industry. Check out Overflow to help make your donations go further this holiday season. Learn more and get started at overflow.co/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast I talk to the funny, unapologetic, and super authentic Jennifer Pastiloff. Jen is a yoga teacher, coach, and writer of the book On Being Human. Jen and I talk about how to quiet your inner a-hole, #shameloss, and how to keep an abundance mentality both in fundraising and in life in general. Join in this fresh, honest conversation, I promise Jen’s transparency and sense of humor are unmatched! Episode highlights:  (01:52) - Who is Jennifer Pastiloff? On being a writer and finding her way out of misery through words, yoga, and overall humanness.  (05:12) - How to quiet your inner a-hole, offer compassion to yourself and find the ridiculousness in the mean voices in your head. (09:44) - The brilliant idea of shame loss and how fundraisers can put the shame down (at least for a day). (17:39) - Abundance mentality, transparency, and no sugar coating: How Jen shifted her life around after Covid. (25:45) - There’s a lot of money in the world! Giving people the chance to help and getting rid of the scarcity mindset. (26:49) - Fundraising is not an ask, it’s an offer! (32:43) - Is shame holding you back from becoming your true self? This is what Jennifer Pastiloff says you should do.  (41:44) - Visibility, vulnerability, and doing an audit: Jennifer’s No Bullshit Motherhood and how to get away from unnecessary demons. (43:57) - Talking to ourselves and doing yoga to quiet your inner a-holes. If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.

Feel like getting outside your box? Then spend some time with Mariam Nusrat, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising! A lightbulb realization during her 12-year frontlines career working on educational policy and behavioral change in developing countries for the World Bank has transformed her into a video games visionary. As Founder and CEO of GRID (Gaming Revolution for International Development), she has unleashed a not-for-profit platform that is democratizing mobile games, advocating for a better world, and offering players of all ages, cultures, and geographies a ton of fun along the way! And fun = retention! But there’s more … Mariam has more recently launched Breshna.io, a startup that empowers global users to create, share and monetize their own purposeful Web3 video games, with no code and at lightning speed. She is sharing thoughts on how nonprofits can incorporate interactivity and other tech tools to enliven fundraising and deepen connections with funders, volunteers, and donor recipients alike. As Mary Poppins famously said: “A spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.” Video gaming is Mariam Nusrat’s engaging and playful strategy for driving a new, more equitable frontier built on interactive community, collaboration, and education, and there is so much that nonprofits can learn from her. Episode Highlights: (02:20) Mariam's experience at the World Bank brings her to today (03:36) The founding of Breshna.io and raising $2.4 million of seed capital  (06:09) The three I’s that make gaming such a compelling educational tool (06:41) How do mobile games get the best retention  (09:14) Gamification: What it is and how it works.  (14:14) The similarities between nonprofit proposals and mobile games (15:33) How to create the gamification of nonprofit functions  (20:09) The “crystal ball” effect (22:44) Taking bite-sized steps forward (25:03) Collaborative versus Competitive environments (27:35) About the psychology of “showing up”  (29:48) The trade-off between too easy and too difficult (33:03) Retention is about more than luck. (34:51) NFTs and how to make donors feel lucky and exclusive in an equitable way.  (40:41) What it means to have a “building in public” philosophy  What’s more powerful than a stellar fundraising strategy? Integrated software that helps you manage with ease. Visit NationBuilder, our sponsor for this episode of What the Fundraising, to learn about their ready-to-go donation pages, express payment options, and other tools to support you on every step of your nonprofit’s journey!  If you’re looking to lift your nonprofit to that next level, my Power Partners Formula offers a step-by-step plan to get you there, including how to identify the right partners and design the right campaign. This free masterclass offers a great starting point!

Note the disparity: while commercial businesses have a near 90% returning customers, the nonprofit sector has a staggering 40-45%. Surprising? Then you’ll want to spend some time with Jay Love, Co-Founder of Bloomerang, and my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising. After 11 years as the CEO and Co-Founder of eTapestry, Jay started Bloomerang specifically to address the donor retention issues we have in the nonprofit sector. In addition to our talk about donor retention, you’ll get insight into Jay’s 4-decade journey in this sector and his up-close look at the evolution of technology and data management. Jay walks us through the evolution of donor data storage from post-it notes and file cabinets, to disks and hard drives, and then finally to cloud storage. The history is eye-opening and helpful to understanding where we are today, why we see resistance in certain tech adoption areas, and how we can best utilize the incredible tools we have available to us.   Jay also shares valuable insight into what it takes for nonprofits to succeed in their fundraising, and what keeps donors engaged with their nonprofit partners. A lot of it, as you’ll hear, boils down to two things: authenticity and appreciation, both of which are made easier with the right technology partners. In this era of the digital revolution, data holds so much power and requires a lot of responsibility. Jay talks to us about the most important ways to maintain data hygiene and the right ways to utilize (and protect) donor data. He also explains why transparency and proper handling of data are a must in nonprofits to support donor trust and engagement. But don’t worry, data hygiene doesn’t mean ‘perfect data’ and we talk about the difference and the ways in which most donors have grace for nonprofits when there is an error in lifetime giving data or another metric. The opportunities we gain by utilizing our data and personalizing communications far outweigh the issues with small mistakes here and there. This episode will help you know what to prioritize and why!  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Please note: This episode is a part of a very special series called The People Behind the Products. More than ever, nonprofits care about the company behind their technology and service providers. What’s the underlying mission and vision of the company? What do they stand for? And how are they thinking about the sector and serving nonprofits? This series is an opportunity to get to know some of my favorite nonprofit technology companies so that the next time you’re making a tech decision, you can understand a little bit more about the people behind the product. There is no sponsorship or industry money behind the production of this series and the editorial content was at the sole discretion of the What the Fundraising team.

Rhea Wong is a nonprofit leader with 20 years of experience that helps Executive Directors and development staff build out individual major gift programs to raise money like a pro. In this episode, we dismantle some of the most common biases inside the fundraiser’s mindset when it comes to money and the risk of rejection. Rhea has some interesting takeaways to help you challenge your pre-established money beliefs and become a successful fundraiser. You know this conversation is right up our alley! Listen and learn how to ask the right questions to nurture your relationships with partners. 00:28 - Rhea Wong’s background: The early experiences that shaped her root beliefs around money. 6:35 - The risk of rejection: What emotions get triggered when asking for money versus when you’re being asked? 09:45 - The courage to claim an edge: How to overcome the fact that not everyone is going to align with what you do. 13:46 - Fundraiser’s energy, mindset patterns, and inner barriers: What should new fundraisers be aware of? 23:36 - Heroes (not saviors) of our stories: What long-term relationship mindset and donor retention efforts are really all about. 32:01 - There is no perfect ask: Discussing the biased narratives that create a competitive landscape in the nonprofit sector and the discomfort that comes from asking for money. 38:15 - Transparency is important: The purpose that conversations with founders and board members should seek. 40:13 - We never talk about money in a really transparent way. And yet it's the undercard of everything that we do.

Are you ready for the second season of What the Fundraising? Before we properly start a new season, we take a look back to highlight some of the most interesting lessons from last season's episodes with my friend and nonprofit game-changer, Vik Harrison. Vik links each one of these favorite moments to her experience being the creative leader of charity: water, a successful nonprofit she co-founded with her (now) husband, Scott Harrison! We examine the value of celebrating small victories, discuss ways to deal with rejection, and we talk about a number of ways to see beyond the limiting beliefs in the nonprofit world. 02:05 - Introducing Vik Harrison, a creative storyteller and co-founder of the nonprofit project charity: water. 07:40 - Why celebrating small victories makes the work easier: Breaking down the ‘beggar’s mindset’. 14:13 - Creating Community through a solid brand culture: Welcome rituals and helping partner organizations to spread your message right. 21:13 - Exit the tunnel vision: Negative thought cycles and how to use curiosity and transparency to avoid them. 28:50 - How to deal with rejection and negative feedback in a nonprofit: On emotional components, vulnerability, inner safety, sharing stories, deep beliefs and practices. 36:06 - The brain rewire: On shame loss, apps for mind and body healing and overcoming limiting beliefs. 44:14 - Future winner long-game mindset: What can be learned from political fundraising.

In this heartwarming podcast episode, join Julia Endicott, a compassionate and insightful 10-year-old, as she shares her inspiring journey of empathy and service. Julia opens up about her deep love for animals, particularly her beloved dog Dixie, and her passion for making a difference in their lives. Julia exemplifies the power of kindness and generosity from her involvement with the local Humane Society to her monthly donations and volunteer work. Through engaging conversations, Julia reflects on the significance of empathy and storytelling in understanding the experiences of others. She shares how hearing stories about rescued animals or individuals facing homelessness has shaped her perspective and fueled her desire to give back to her community. With genuine warmth and wisdom beyond her years, Julia emphasizes the importance of looking beyond surface judgments and embracing compassion. Join Julia on her journey of empathy and discovery, and be inspired to make a difference in the world, one act of kindness at a time! In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the importance of empathy in fostering connections and relationships. Recognize the transformative impact of acts of kindness on individuals and communities. Appreciate the power of storytelling in shaping perspective and empathy. Gain insights into the significance of volunteerism and community service in creating positive change. Reflect on personal experiences and values to cultivate compassion and generosity. Be inspired to take action and make a difference in the world through small acts of kindness. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne.  NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Today, three inspirational figures, Dana Snyder, Kishshana Palmer, and Becky Endicott, join us for an unfiltered conversation about the realities behind balancing business, motherhood, and personal life. They are exceptional leaders, each dedicated to making a meaningful difference through their unique skills and passions! Dana Snyder is the Founder and CEO of Positive Equation. As a passionate speaker, teacher, and podcast host, Dana dedicates her work to empowering nonprofits with the knowledge to use social media ads effectively. Her mission is to help organizations attract potential supporters and create sustainable giving models, building robust monthly giving programs that transform everyone into philanthropists. Becky Endicott, CFRE, APR, is the Co-Founder and Chief Storyteller of We Are for Good and Co-Host of the We Are For Good Podcast. Becky is a master storyteller and a champion of kindness, celebrating philanthropy, seeking justice, endorsing humanity, pushing boundaries, and embracing people. Known for her authenticity, she often shares self-deprecating stories to forge genuine connections, understanding that true bonds are formed in moments of joy and in life's messy and challenging times. Kishshana Palmer, CFRE, is the CEO of ManageMint, Inc., a leadership consulting firm specializing in strategy, management, and growth. As a renowned keynote speaker, event host, TEDx alumnus, and trusted advisor to executive leaders, Kishshana brings real-world solutions and authentic, high-impact experiences to CEOs, senior leadership teams, organizations, companies, and solo entrepreneurs. Her expertise and vibrant personality make her a sought-after figure in leadership and management consulting. In this episode, you will be able to: - Identify challenges and triumphs faced by women in career, personal growth, and family life. - Explore themes of vulnerability and authenticity in professional and personal spheres. - Recognize the importance of supportive networks in achieving goals. - Challenge the notion that success requires perfection. - Gain strategies for managing life's highs and lows, fostering resilience. - Learn from stories and advice for personal growth and balance. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  "This week's episode is sponsored by Keela. Keela is a fundraiser’s CRM, meaning that it goes beyond a data management platform. It enhances your work and propels you to achieve fundraising success. From email and communications tools to AI-powered donation pages, your unique needs will be met with Keela, the CRM built BY fundraisers FOR fundraisers. Learn more at keela.co/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Tania Anaissie is the Founder and CEO at Beytna Design, an equity design studio supporting social sector leaders to translate their equity values into action. She is a Founding Creator of Liberatory Design, a new practice of human-centered design that drives innovation towards liberation. In this episode, Tania shares why the way to break the status quo is by slowing down and being intentional. Plus the ways we can allow ourselves time and a safe space to do it. Urgency is not our ally here! Episode highlights: (02:01) -  Who is Tania Anaissie? Her background in design thinking and how Beytna’s liberatory thinking works in the nonprofit space. (07:01) - Creating a safe space to fail: How to test for a growing and constantly evolving environment.   (10:31) - Slow down and be intentional: Some tools to reflect on our intentions and observe potential biases outside the status quo.  (18:17) - The core of true co-design and co-ownership: How nonprofit space needs a shift in their mindset to create beneficial programs and partnerships.  (25:14) - Making space to challenge the status quo: Where to get the time and energy to change our programming.  (30:57) - The healthy boundaries in helping: How to work on the nonprofit space and not making it a self-righteous and painful journey. (38:04) - We can work on this together!: How we can face the unknown in our way to breaking the status quo.

Kate Williams is the CEO of 1% for the Planet, a non-profit whose 6,000+ members are integrating environmental giving into standard best business practices. She helps us imagine a world in which every operating budget includes line items to underwrite social causes as routinely as office space or equipment rental. Conjured some 20 years ago on the banks of the Madison River in Montana, the founders of Patagonia and Blue Ribbon Flies, a fly fishing company, foresaw a need for businesses to support environmental organizations far beyond simple check-the-box annual giving. Out of their vision for paying back the planet has grown a network that partners socially responsible businesses with on-the-ground resources. In this episode, Kate explains why companies of all sizes (as well as individuals) are willing to tithe 1% of their annual revenue under the umbrella of 1% for the Planet. We talk about all of the results that come from this model - mutual learning, storytelling, opportunity, and, perhaps most of all, a sustainable win-win-win proposition. There are so many learnings for nonprofits and businesses in this episode, tune in now to learn about what businesses are looking for when partnering with nonprofits and how 1% for the Planet plays matchmaker, coach, and co-dreamer to support successful cross-sector partnerships. Episode Hightlights: (01:00) - 1% for the Planet’s origin story (02:30) - The organization's accomplishments and reach over the past 20 years  (05:20) - What 1% for the Planet members get for their commitment (09:20) - Why 1% of sales versus 1% of profit?  (14:25) - The win-win equation: Credibly doing the right thing resonates with consumers, boosts sales, and extends business longevity and viability. (17:43) - All about due diligence: 1% for the Planet offers a knowledge-based vetting process that verifies partners, measures impact, and identifies narratives. (20:22) - 1%’s Matchmaking Function (24:00) - Long-term versus short-term partnering: Ongoing relationships reduce the overhead costs inherent in start-up fundraising efforts and frees up resources for other broader pursuits. (26:27) - 1% for the Planet provides a bridge, facilitating conversations across for- and non-profit entities whose language, goals and perspectives don’t always align. (33:22) - Donors often don’t recognize the direct and indirect power they wield and impacts they have on the giving process. (33:05) - On the horizon: The vision is to grow and brand a global standard for giving and social responsibility knit into business operation in a core way. (36:25) - Calls to action (and considerations) for smaller businesses contemplating a 1% commitment. (37:24) - How to get in touch with Kate and learn more about 1% for the planet.

Are you aware of the inequalities in conventional donor-centric fundraising strategies? Are you intrigued by the burgeoning interest in community-centric fundraising, but unsure how to effectively participate or get it 'right'? It's time to embrace a shift towards more community-focused fundraising methods. However, many organizations find themselves ensnared in perfectionism, unsure how to integrate these principles into their operations. In this episode, we're demystifying the process, addressing how to overcome these obstacles, and successfully implement fundraising initiatives that make a real impact in your community. I'm excited to introduce Michelle Shireen Muri, a passionate advocate of community-centric fundraising and the dynamic host of the Ethical Rainmaker Podcast. As a co-founder of the community-centric fundraising movement, Michelle's work has been instrumental in sparking dialogues around equity and social justice within the nonprofit sector. With her background in immigrant rights advocacy and extensive consulting work in fundraising, Michelle offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that nonprofits face today. I'm particularly excited to discuss with Michelle how organizations can tackle barriers like perfectionism and fear, which often hinder the adoption of community-centric fundraising methods. The reason I was so keen to have this conversation with Michelle is because of a recurring theme I've noticed among organizations: the desire to incorporate community-centric fundraising principles, tempered by fears of making mistakes and uncertainty about where to begin. This apprehension perpetuates a cycle wherein white supremacy culture continues to dominate our organizations. Our discussion also delves into the relationship between community-centric and donor-centric practices, and how to challenge the deeply ingrained white supremacy culture in many organizations, while acknowledging its historical roots in the sector. To me, Michelle is an inspiring figure, and I greatly appreciate her steadfast dedication to keeping our sector accountable, helping us navigate complex principles and standards in a non-binary and open-minded way. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Neon One for making this episode possible. I love partnering with Neon One because I believe they care for the whole nonprofit, and I know that my clients will be well taken care of. I also love how they work with consultants to value our time and expertise. They pay for speaking at their events, and they understand how consultants support the entire sector. To learn more about Neon One’s partner program CLICK HERE. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What The Fundraising, Mallory is joined by  Candice Mama, a global thought leader in forgiveness, healing, and post-conflict transformation. They dive deep into the heart of personal growth, resilience, and navigating challenges in life. Life isn’t always about figuring everything out. It’s about embracing vulnerability, learning from both success and failures, and stepping into the known with determination. In this episode, they discuss how to face hardships with courage, use feedback as a tool for improvement, and find the strength to rise above obstacles.  Candice Mama is a passionate advocate for peace and reconciliation who has nearly a decade of experience in the NGO and MPO space. Having started her journey in an unexpected and deeply personal way sparked a deep commitment to understanding the impact of war and helping others break free from the pain of their pasts within her. She was praised by Vogue as one of the world’s top 33 most inspiring women alongside icons like Michelle Obama. She was also named among the Top 20 African women by the African Union and the United Nations.  In this episode you will be able to, • Learn what bravery really means, and when it matters most. • Discover the potential of new technologies like Artificial Intelligence • Learn the intersection of ethics, equity, and emerging tech in a world of conflict. • See how nonprofits and social change leaders can embrace imperfection and still take action. • Discover self-coaching strategies for pushing through discomfort and doubt. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Donor Perfect. Our friends at Donor Perfect really understand fundraising on so many levels. Stay aligned while working online with a seamless and secure payments experience for your donors and your team. Empower donors to give where they are, whenever they like, automate data entry, and process online, monthly, and mobile payments, and accept payments over the phone. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Uncover the hidden emotional barriers in fundraising, revealing how vulnerability can transform the process from an uncomfortable task to a meaningful connection! Learn more about aligning your values with your daily practices and building a more inclusive and supportive work environment! Today, we sit down with Rickesh Lakhani, the founder and lead consultant of Radiance Advisory, to explore the multifaceted nature of emotional expression and its impact on both personal and organizational levels. With nearly 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and social impact sectors, Rickesh brings a wealth of knowledge on aligning values with day-to-day behaviors, particularly within fundraising and leadership.   In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the impact of suppressing emotions on human connection and professional environments. Learn strategies for creating safe spaces where vulnerability and emotional expression are encouraged. Explore the challenges of balancing personal and professional boundaries in the workplace. Gain insights into how personal experiences and upbringing influence responses to others' emotions. Recognize the need to unlearn outdated notions about emotional expression and leadership. Identify the importance of genuinely supporting employees beyond just having an open-door policy. Discover the value of being heard and understood rather than simply fixing issues. Acknowledge the necessity of processing emotions entirely rather than avoiding them. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Have a renewed perspective on the vital role of sales and fundraising in driving mission-driven work, as well as practical insights for fostering a positive money mindset and empowering nonprofit teams to make a meaningful impact! Meet Dr. Nadia Brown, the Founder and CEO of The Doyenne Agency, a premier sales and sales training organization specializing in national coaching, personal development companies, and small boutique businesses. With a mission to empower business founders to build powerful sales teams from their existing non-sales team members and armed with a doctorate in organizational leadership, Nadia brings unparalleled expertise to today's discussion.   In this episode, you will be able to: Understand ongoing money mindset conversations in nonprofits. Explore emotional challenges in fundraising. Learn to reframe the purpose of sales and fundraising. Recognize sales and fundraising beyond financial gain. Gain confidence in making asks. Explore methods for fostering a culture of collective responsibility and empowerment within nonprofit teams. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Keela for making this episode possible. Our friends at Keela offer nonprofits like yours comprehensive fundraising and donor management software, equipped with powerful tools to expand your reach, increase fundraising revenue, and foster a dedicated community of supporters. Want a user-friendly platform that provides actionable data? Look no further than Keela. Check out Keela at keela.co/mallory.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In the nonprofit sector, phone calls can be a powerful tool for building authentic relationships with donors and community members. Unlike online communication, which is one-sided, phone calls provide an opportunity for actual connection and dialogue. When tackled with vulnerability and clarity, fundraisers can break down isolation walls and engage supporters in genuine, non-transactional conversations. Meet Kel Haney, an accidental fundraiser with a background in theater. Mallory and Kel talk about the importance of phone calls and community engagement in the non-profit sector. Kel shares her “Five-Minute Phone Call Framework,” and speaks on the importance of genuine curiosity and intention in the questions asked during a call, the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in fundraising, handling objections and building relationships,, and more. In this episode, you will be able to:  Learn about the “Five-Minute Phone Call Framework.” Explore the importance of curiosity and self-awareness in professional interactions. Discover about the power of multi-channel communication. Learn about embracing vulnerability and authenticity. Learn about the importance of outlining a conversation.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by GiveButter. GiveButter is the easiest-to-use fundraising platform.  Your favorite fundraising tools, supercharged! Never miss a fundraising opportunity again. Givebutter Plus takes this award-winning platform to the next level with advanced automation, deeper donor insights, and eye-popping supporter engagement tools to help your nonprofit get ahead—and stay there. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point.

This episode is a call to action for fundraisers, donors, and nonprofit leaders to rethink their strategies and work together to create a more sustainable and impactful future! Radha Friedman is an intersectional philanthropy and social impact strategist dedicated to directing resources to underserved communities, especially women and girls of color. With over 20 years of global experience, she has partnered with philanthropic and nonprofit leaders to drive movements and effect change. Radha's work spans 60 countries, guiding businesses, foundations, and philanthropists to maximize their impact through an equity lens. She's collaborated with Nobel laureates and justice leaders and has been featured in Forbes and The Guardian. Radha is also a bestselling author of Fundraising Without Burnout.   In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the roots and impacts of burnout in the nonprofit sector. Explore strategies to address and prevent burnout effectively. Recognize the gendered dynamics of burnout and compensation in nonprofit work. Learn how to advocate for systemic changes in fundraising practices. Discover ways to initiate courageous conversations with funders. Uncover the importance of wellness and realistic expectations in fundraising. Identify the benefits of unrestricted and multi-year funding. Emphasize the need for cross-sector collaboration to address complex issues. Practice self-compassion and balance in high-stress roles.   Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Keela for making this episode possible. Our friends at Keela offer nonprofits like yours comprehensive fundraising and donor management software, equipped with powerful tools to expand your reach, increase fundraising revenue, and foster a dedicated community of supporters. Want a user-friendly platform that provides actionable data? Look no further than Keela. Check out Keela at keela.co/mallory.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What the Fundraising, Mallory is joined by Brantley Boyett, co-founder and president of GivingDocs, to unpack the world of planned giving, behavioral science, and the role of AI in fundraising. With a background as a reformed attorney and years of research alongside Duke University, Brantley brings a wealth of insights into how nonprofits can unlock the potential of legacy giving—no matter their size. Mallory and Brantley break down common misconceptions around planned giving, including why it doesn’t have to be intimidating, and how organizations can integrate AI-driven behavioral insights to communicate more effectively with donors. Brantley shares what nonprofits need to have in place before launching a planned giving program, and how technology can help - but not replace - the essential human relationships at the heart of giving. If you’ve ever worried that planned giving isn’t for your organization, or if you’ve been hesitant about how to start, this episode is packed with clarity, actionable strategies, and myth-busting insights to help you confidently step into this critical fundraising strategy. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the common misconceptions about planned giving and the types of organizations it benefits. Discover the relationship between planned giving and annual giving. Explore the role of technology, particularly AI in planned giving. Discover the importance of the balance between meeting goals and genuinely connecting with donors. Understand why technology shouldn’t be the first step in planned giving.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by GiveButter. GiveButter is the easiest-to-use fundraising platform.  Your favorite fundraising tools, supercharged! Never miss a fundraising opportunity again. Givebutter Plus takes this award-winning platform to the next level with advanced automation, deeper donor insights, and eye-popping supporter engagement tools to help your nonprofit get ahead—and stay there. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Simplify and enhance your volunteer management with Civic Champs' CEO Geng Wang as he revolutionizes nonprofit operations by streamlining communication, saving time, and addressing last-minute changes to drive impact for your mission. Geng Wang is the co-founder and CEO of Civic Champs, a ground-breaking platform designed to transform the way volunteer management is done in the non-profit sector. With a bold mission to provide an intuitive solution, Geng's vision is to significantly increase the impact of volunteering and reduce clerical work by nearly 85%. In just four years, Civic Champs technology has empowered hundreds of nonprofits across the United States, proving itself a catalyst for positive change and measurable results. In this episode, you will: Discover volunteer management's central role in nonprofit organizations' functioning and growth. Uncover effective strategies to streamline volunteer programs, promoting efficiency and seamless communication. Learn about the strategic value of efficient volunteer management in achieving your organization's core goals. Explore ways to integrate volunteer programs into your organization's operations for a profound impact. Realize how technology can simplify and boost your organization's volunteer management framework. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

When we look at fundraising, we tend to silo marketing, acquisition, cultivation, and stewardship. But Simon Mainwaring, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising, is explaining why in fact they are all a piece of the puzzle. He is breaking down for us the ways in which each element of the donor journey is a link in the chain that is indicative of the nonprofit’s overall brand. When we get the marketing right, our donors connect and invest for the long haul. As CEO of the strategic consulting firm We First Branding, Simon is all about locking in the messages that articulate purpose and motivate action. Working with nonprofits and for-profits alike, his focus is on heart-centered principles and storytelling that resonate universally.  You’ll come away with actionable ways to define your organization’s narrative, audit the efficacy of its marketing messages, and make change through co-creative processes. If you’re looking for fresh ways to forge a meaningful and ongoing connection with donors in 2023, then you’ll want to join us in taking a look at the importance of perspective and tone. Are your fundraising communications too internally focused or self-serving? Do your contributors know exactly the impact their support is making? “If you tell the story in the right way it can really deeply resonate with people and inspire them to be a part of something larger than themselves,” says Simon. “And the way you do that is by building a brand.” It’s an iterative process and we’re here to get you moving in the right direction. (02:14) Simon tells about We First Branding and its mission (03:05) About the “We First” ethos at the intersection of branding and storytelling. (05:01) Simon defines the concept of branding. (06:41) Simon’s suggestions for foundations and nonprofits figuring out their brands (06:41) Why Defining Our Core Stories Is So Important (12:39) Key Questions to Ask When Defining Your Organization’s Narrative (19:33) How the most effective copy deploys the reader/viewer perspective. (27:40) How to do a quick internal audit of your branding best practices (29:36) Three Things Nonprofits Can Do to Assess Their Branding Effectiveness (32:39) Strategies for Leaders Trying to Make Change and Build Brand Cohesion (41:45) About the shift from marketing to movement-making.  (43:39) Where to find out more about Simon and We First Branding Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Many thanks to our sponsor, Feathr for making this episode possible. Our friends at Feather help nonprofits like yours level up their digital campaigns every day through their nonprofit marketing platform. Don’t rely on magic this year. Check out Feathr to streamline your digital marketing campaigns and exceed your goals. Learn more and get started today at Feathr.co. If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, Mallory is joined by Michelle Flores Vryn, Head of Development at iNaturalist, about systemic challenges within the nonprofit sector. Michelle brings insights from her 15+ years in marketing, communications, and fundraising, emphasizing the critical need for a shift in nonprofit approaches to problem-solving, retention, and scaling. She is currently head of development at iNaturalist, as well as a changemaker on the AFP global board of directors and a Texas chapter organizer for community-centric fundraising. Together, they delve into pressing issues like fundraisers' burnout, systemic structures that hinder nonprofits, and the sector’s struggle between scaling and driving real systems change.  By setting achievable goals, embracing fresh ideas, and nurturing inner growth, fundraisers can tackle systemic challenges and drive meaningful change, transforming the nonprofit landscape into one that thrives on support and shared purpose! Key takeaways from the episode:  Recognize the role of community support in fundraising. Explore the link between job stressors and burnout. Distinguish between budget scaling and systems change. Address root causes of nonprofit issues. Promote sustainable practices through leadership. Acknowledge generational shifts in workforce expectations. Encourage cultural change in fundraising. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Welcome to an inspiring episode that takes you on a deep dive into the world of fundraising, where authentic connections, passion, and joy are at the heart of success. From overcoming the fear of asking for donations to navigating the complex relationship dynamics, today's conversation provides fundraisers and nonprofit professionals with the tools and strategies they need to excel in their roles. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or just starting in the field, this episode will empower you to build authentic connections and unleash your full potential in fundraising! In this episode, meet Kristal Frazier, an extraordinary international speaker, results-driven trainer, and soon-to-be bestselling author. With a captivating presence and a passion for empowering individuals and organizations, Kristal is affectionately known as the "Queen of Conversation." Over the past decade, Kristal has graced stages across North America, Europe, and Africa, where she has shared her wealth of knowledge and expertise with thousands of students, small business owners, nonprofit executives, and a diverse range of professionals. Her impact is undeniable, having collectively guided her audience to secure an astounding $200 million in funding from funders and individual donors. Having walked the challenging path of fundraising herself, Kristal understands the intricacies and difficulties that come with the territory. Yet, she firmly believes that speaking confidently and in authority is the key to fearless fundraising. With her guidance, you can learn the skills necessary to ask for and secure the funding and donations essential to your organization's or program's success. In this episode, you will be able to:  Learn how to overcome fundraising fear and speak with confidence. Discover the art of fundraising beyond the ask.  Explore how to infuse empathy into conversations, create genuine connections with donors, and cultivate lasting relationships. Get an insight into balancing the complex world of fundraising and human connection. Learn how to find joy and synergy in fundraising. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, iWave for making this episode possible. Our friends at iWave help nonprofits identify, qualify, and retain donors to raise more major gifts. Using their comprehensive software, iWave gives you access to the industry’s highest quality wealth and philanthropic information so you can determine who to ask, how much to ask for, and when to ask. To get a demo and learn more, check out iWave. Connect with me: Instagram: www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Why is it so hard for women to bring all of ourselves, imperfections included, to the table? For starters, we’ve inherited deeply ingrained narratives — stories that shame us and drive our truest natures into hiding. That’s why we all need the support of someone like Ruthie Lindsey, my remarkable guest on this episode of What the Fundraising. She is an author, coach, speaker, and extraordinary healer whose rare wisdom provides a beautiful mirroring of all that we are, including the difficult pieces so many of us are reluctant to expose.  In this episode, Ruthie invites us to embrace our truest selves through practices such as intentional expression (Dance! Journal! Scream!) and the RAIN framework that author and psychologist Tara Brach recommends for processing jealousy and other challenging emotions.  Enjoy this powerful conversation with a woman who has worked tremendously hard to fully embrace every facet of herself and is now serving as a beacon for others finding their way towards self-love and acceptance. If you work in the service or nonprofit world, this episode is likely especially relevant. Here’s a chance to pause and reflect on what it means to feel nourished and deeply worthy, which in turn will fuel your life goals and mission! If you need a reminder of your fundraising magic specifically, you might be interested in taking my Fundraising Superpower Quiz.  Episode Highlights: (03:12)  A brief intro to Ruthie Lindsey  (05:03)  Ruthie’s “Love Reflection Sessions”  (06:20) Mallory and Ruthie’s first meeting, where Mallory lied to her. (08:40) The inherited stories we tell ourselves about not being worthy or deserving of time, love, and tenderness.  (12:22) The way we “fold ourselves up” in an effort to be accepted and loved.  (15:14) All about jealousy and comparison. (17:39) Ruthie shares Tara Brach’s RAIN framework.  (22:19) Showing up with self-love rather than a place of needing to be needed. (23:50) “Doing good’ vs. showing up with an honest, sustainable, positive energy.  (27:23) Embracing tears and the power of crying.  (31:34) Greeting hard narratives with compassion in order to create a liberating shift in the story. (34:01) The discomfort and necessity of setting boundaries.  (35:42) The daily practice of belonging. (42:25) Small rituals that Ruthie recommends to shift towards self-love and healing. (47:03) Creating a container where our truest feelings are safe to emerge. (49:54) Where to connect with Ruthie Lindsey This episode of What the Fundraising was sponsored by Neon One, the comprehensive platform for coordinating donor and member management, fundraising, volunteers, and grants as well as all kinds of information about the when, where, why, and how of giving. Head over to this link to learn more!

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode that's set to redefine the way nonprofits approach technology and innovation. Join us on this transformative journey as we unravel the layers of AI adoption, from overcoming fears and ethical considerations to practical steps for implementation. In this engaging podcast episode, we have the privilege of having Dena Vongchanh, a passionate advocate for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in nonprofit organizations. She is the Associate Director of Development at Students Rising Above, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through education and mentorship. With a passion for technology and its potential to drive positive change, Dena brings her expertise to the nonprofit sector, helping the organization harness the benefits of AI and data-driven solutions to further its mission.  In this episode, you will be able to: Learn about balancing potential benefits and ethical challenges of AI adoption. Get an insight into uncovering hidden biases and ensuring inclusivity when using AI for non-profit work. Discover how some of the already familiar tools are leveraging AI. Learn about overcoming fears related to AI, building policies for AI, and fostering collaboration when using AI tools in a non-profit organization. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, From the initial spark igniting a cause to the crescendo of community support, navigating the twists and turns of motivation paves the path toward fundraising triumph! In today's episode, Dr. Szu-chi Huang, an esteemed researcher in motivation science, delves into the intricacies of sustaining motivation throughout fundraising campaigns. Her research centers on the science of motivation, particularly exploring the temporal and social aspects of striving towards goals. She uses experiments to examine causal processes closely and field studies to test these findings in the real world, such as launching loyalty programs with companies and conducting intervention campaigns with nonprofit organizations like UNICEF. In this episode, you will be able to: Recognize the dynamic nature of motivation in fundraising campaigns. Tailor strategies for each stage of the fundraising campaign. Reframe success as a continuous journey rather than a singular destination. Utilize reflection and collective sharing to maintain momentum. Leverage diverse tools and resources to sustain motivation. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved significantly over the years, transforming from a concept that fascinated us when computers bested chess champions, to a powerful tool with a variety of applications. For nonprofit professionals, AI has the ability to revolutionize content creation in the sector, automating tasks, and providing insights into data patterns and trends. AI creates a new approach when it comes to content production and it has the potential to save time and streamline processes in a big way, allowing organizations to focus on their core mission and themselves..  And I am talking about all of this and more with today’s guest, Cherian Koshy, an innovative leader in the nonprofit sector, helping organizations harness the power of AI to revolutionize their fundraising and content creation efforts. After witnessing the impact of AI on various industries, Cherian realized its potential to transform the way nonprofits approach donor relations and communication. With a passion for technology and a keen eye for opportunities, he successfully integrated AI tools into his own work, streamlining processes and increasing efficiency and now he’s here to help the rest of us.  In this episode, you will be able to:  1. Discover how AI is transforming content creation in the fundraising and nonprofit sector.  2. Uncover the importance of balancing AI-generated content with human editing and approval.  3. Recognize the potential dangers of AI bias and misinformation and how to address them.  4. Explore the power of AI in donor identification and engagement strategies.  5. Learn about time-saving AI tools that can enhance work-life balance for nonprofit professionals. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

As fundraisers and change-makers, we get immense purpose and value from our work. But how do we optimize that? How do we optimize our donor relationships so we can keep creating value for our organization? The key is creating the right habits! If you can create strong habits and get good at the skills that strengthen and grow your donor relationships, you’ll soon be seeing wins left and right. Habits free us up to focus on the areas we need to grow, optimize, and see results in. This is where Stephanie Weldy shines. Stephanie Weldy, Chief of Staff at BJ Fogg, is an expert at the intersection of Behavior Design and Employee Well-Being. In this episode, Stephanie talks about how to use behavior design and habit design to improve your donor relationship management. She emphasizes the power of small behavior changes in creating big changes in your organization. You’ll learn tips, tricks, and advice on designing sustainable habits that will help you manage your time, prioritize your donor management tasks, and see real progress in your fundraising strategies.  Ready to get out of the cycle of blaming and shaming yourself for low motivation? Ready to start designing consistent and reliable habits? Tune in to learn how! Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  A big shout out to our sponsor Instil, the holistic tool that reimagines nonprofit technology in ways that deepen community relationships and nonprofit processes to magnify impact. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics supercharge donors, increase volunteer engagement, and smooth donor management and operations across your entire organization. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of progress in your efforts to start a nonprofit organization from scratch, despite your countless hours of research and networking, then you are not alone! Many individuals like yourself find themselves stuck in a cycle of ineffective actions, such as submitting grant applications with little success or struggling to build a strong support base. Instead of experiencing growth and impact, they are left feeling discouraged and unsure of how to move forward. But fear not, there is a way to break free from this cycle and achieve the successful establishment and growth of a nonprofit organization. Say hello to Tiffany Allen, an inspiring entrepreneur with an unwavering commitment to empowering non-profit start-ups. As the creator of ‘Boss on a Budget’, she has been cradling the dreams of fresh non-profit entrepreneurs since 2016. Tiffany's focus leans towards aiding small, grassroots organizations and those led by communities of color. With a repository of educational content, digital tools, and personal coaching, she's built a supportive foundation for those ready to make a difference in the world. Armed with a potent blend of strategic insight and heartfelt passion, Tiffany has steered numerous non-profits to a path of sustainable growth. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the essentials to kick-starting a nonprofit organization from the ground up, cementing the foundations for success. Uncover proven fundraising strategies for starting your nonprofit, while preparing to tackle potential challenges head-on. Gain an understanding of how to construct a robust board and team, vital to your nonprofit's growth. Learn about the necessary shift from a volunteer-run organization to having a paid staff, delving into the dynamics of this transition. Get an insight into recognizing when it might be the right time to close down a nonprofit organization, a decision that, though tough, sometimes should be contemplated in the interest of the cause. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Constant Contact for making this episode possible. Our friends at Constant Contact provide nonprofit leaders like you with cutting-edge email and social media management tools. Want to craft emails that shine on every device or manage your social media effortlessly? And for those moments you're at a loss for words, their AI Content Generator, powered by ChatGPT, delivers engaging messages in mere seconds. For a platform that amplifies your marketing, saves time, and drives growth, look no further than Constant Contact. Get started with your risk-free trial using the promo code 'MALLORY' for 30% off your first three months. Discover more at www.constantcontact.com/mallory. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Tamika Felder is a woman with dreams plus an awesome speaker, author, cancer survivor, and advocate who has devoted her life to helping others do one simple thing: do what they really want during your one precious life.  Listen to this week’s episode with Tamika and get ready for a boost towards taking action and control over your life. I promise Tamika is a cheerleader, not a fear leader, and her energy is sparklingly contagious. Remember, you don’t need to ask for permission or wait for the perfect moment to do what you want! Episode highlights:  (03:03) - How Tamika Felder’s life suddenly changed when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer at 25, and how coming face to face with mortality gave her a new perspective on life.  (08:15) - What is holding you back today? — Don’t wait to be skinnier, smarter, or more connected. Do the things that will make you happy!  (16:17) - Limiting beliefs and how to break them by experimenting the world, traveling, and doing what YOU want to do.  (22:29) - The importance of making conscious choices and having healthy boundaries. (26:19) - Giving yourself grace and achieving a balance between having pity parties and pushing yourself forward. (28:18) - Catabolic & anabolic energy: Going from tunnel vision to admiring a prism of possibility. (35:43) - Beware of fear-leaders and energy vampires! Why you need to escape people who suck out your energy and project their fears on you. (43:20) - What does balance even mean in today’s crazy hustle culture and why is it okay to stop and reflect? If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.

My guest on this episode of What the Fundraising brings not only deep experience as a successful fundraiser for large cultural and educational institutions, but he’s also changing the conversation with fresh perspectives on both the nonprofit and donor sides of giving. Louis Diez, VP for Community at Almabase & Host at the Donor Participation Project, is sharing with us some of the research and insights that are going to blow your mind. In the theme of this week's mini-series, Friendraising, we explore top-of-mind topics such as what it takes to become a trusted partner, how to cultivate the elements of a holistic fundraising campaign, and why it’s important to look at our campaigns through our donors’ eyes. We also take a look at the definition of community and how it applies when it comes to engaging donors in sustained and meaningful ways. This conversation is peppered with fascinating food for thought, from the changing face of fundraising in a world with ever more diverse platforms for direct giving to the identification of new donor segments and the potential resource they represent. It all starts with establishing that all-important trust equation: Credibility + Reliability + Intimacy = Donor connections that go the distance. Click here to learn more about upcoming Donor Participation Project events for fundraising professionals who want to move the needle by building better programs and leadership. Is your nonprofit ready to scale up? Our sponsor DonorPerfect has evolved a powerful platform to get you there. Click here to learn more about how this collaborative all-in-one fundraising hub can help your organization drive results, coordinate development, and foster donor engagement. There is a lot of overlap in Louis’ recommendation with what I teach inside my Power Partners Formula. Register here for the FREE masterclass to get the full blueprint. You might also be interested in taking my Fundraising Superpower Quiz. Episode Highlights: (02:31) – Louis traces the arc of his career  (05:20) – Defining the art (and science) behind fundraising (07:35) – The disconnect between the fundraising ask and other elements of donor relations. (08:33) – The driver behind the Donor Participation Project (10:34) – Understanding trust  (15:25) – A more human-centric approach  (17:14) – How nonprofit outreach can reach a complex group of humans (19:50) – “We-centric” Work (22:03) – All about overhead (28:23) – A change in donor patterns and how to diversify the way donors give  (30:53) – Louis offers a definition of community  (32:09) – How Louis applies his community framework to fundraising (36:03) – How to lead with purpose and guide volunteers  (38:29) - Learn more about Louis and the Donor Participation Project Huge thanks to our sponsors over at DonorPerfect. If you’re looking to scale up, DonorPerfect has evolved a powerful platform to get you there. Click here to learn more about how this collaborative all-in-one fundraising hub can help your organization drive results, coordinate development, and foster donor engagement.

This episode is a quick personal note from me to you. It includes some recap, a look ahead and what I am thinking about for the sector and fundraisers in 2023 and beyond. It also includes my deep gratitude for you, this community, our guests and our amazing sponsors. Some of the episodes I highlight in the recap include: Britt Frank - THE SCIENCE OF STUCK & HOW TO MOVE FORWARD IN YOUR FUNDRAISING Gabriel Kram - TRUE SELF-CARE: TENDING TO COMMUNITY, ANCESTRY, AND OUR NERVOUS SYSTEMS Ruthie Lindsey - THE TRUTH ABOUT SELF-LOVE, HEALING, AND THE PATH TO REMEMBERING OUR DEEPEST SELVES Libby DeLana - TAKING THE NEXT RIGHT STEP: HOW A MINDFULNESS PRACTICE BUILDS ALIGNMENT Woodrow Rosenbaum - MOBILIZE YOUR MISSION: DATA-DRIVEN DECISION MAKING IN A RECESSION Sasha Dichter - MEASURING FOR SUCCESS: ALIGNMENT, DATA, AND DONOR CONFIDENCE Mariam Nusrat - MOBILIZE YOUR MISSION: WHAT GAMIFICATION CAN TEACH US ABOUT ENGAGEMENT, RETENTION, & BUILDING COMMUNITY Dominque Morgan - OVERHEAD MYTH, MISSION CREEP, SCARCITY MINDSET: A STUCK SECTOR AND WHAT WE CAN DO ABOUT IT Lynne Twist - HOW TO LIVE A COMMITTED LIFE & RAISE MONEY FROM THE HEART Simone Seol - WHY BRAVERY & NUANCE MATTER: OUR MARKETING & FUNDRAISING MINDSET DEFINES THE DONORS WE ATTRACT Natalia Sanyal - HOW TO WRITE ANTI-OPPRESSIVE MARKETING AND COPY THAT CONVERTS Seth Godin - EFFECTIVE FUNDRAISING AND POWER PARTNER PRINCIPLES Thank you for spending your time with us this year. I’m so grateful for you and the hard work you do to make our world a better place. I hope this holiday season you shine your light back on yourself for some celebration, rest, and rejuvenation. I am wishing you a happy holiday season and happy new year. I’ll see you again on January 3rd, 2023. Follow along on Instagram Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Giving Circles have been around as a concept since the 1980s, but in combination with new technologies, those circles are wider and more generous than ever before. As we learn from Emily Rasmussen, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising, having a platform around which to congregate strengthens the communities that are fueling movements. She founded Grapevine in 2018 specifically to facilitate multiple small donations – maximizing their impact and helping to connect the dots between people and organizations. We know that more collaboration equals more momentum. Pooling resources only expands the pie (which is another reason why a scarcity mindset does no one any favors).  In this conversation, you’ll learn about the different models for Giving Circles, what kinds of networks have been most successful thus far, and how technology can aggregate and amplify the interests of small donors and the community. Emily is sharing key ingredients to keep in mind when setting up a Giving Circle modality and highlights the importance of putting an intentional framework in place. “Nonprofits are recognizing this model and seeing the power,” says Emily. “This is a movement. It's only accelerating!” We’re leaving you with lots of points of entry for moving your nonprofit into the fast lane with this form of turbocharged fundraising – and the community purpose it stewards and grows. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Ready to streamline and modernize your organization’s fundraising strategy? Smash through stumbling blocks with my VIP Day, an intensive one-to-one executive coaching experience. You can also click here to learn how I can work with you to pinpoint problems, develop a clear plan, and create content and design habits to support your nonprofit in achieving its goals. Please note: This episode is a part of a very special series called The People Behind the Products. More than ever, nonprofits care about the company behind their technology and service providers. What’s the underlying mission and vision of the company? What do they stand for? And how are they thinking about the sector and serving nonprofits? This series is an opportunity to get to know some of my favorite nonprofit technology companies so that the next time you’re making a tech decision, you can understand a little bit more about the people behind the product. There is no sponsorship or industry money behind the production of this series and the editorial content was at the sole discretion of the What the Fundraising team. 

Kishshana Palmer is an international speaker, trainer, and coach with a 20+ year background in fundraising, marketing, and talent management who helps leaders create high-performing teams. Kishshana is known for calling out toxic mindsets and behaviors so that organizations can actually make their missions come true. This conversation is both a wake-up call and a joyful release as we get into all the nitty gritty around what holds organizations and leaders back, and what allows them to thrive. We also talk about the need to start investing in your personal and professional development, and what both of us rely on to keep us going. If you want to get 2022 off to a great start with your organization on track, then you don’t want to miss this episode. Episode highlights: (03:02) -  Who is Kishshana Palmer? A 20+ year nonprofit professional helping everyday leaders make their missions happen. (09:10) - Humor, lightness, and communications skills in nonprofits + The biggest leadership no-no’s.  (16:17) - Helper addiction & Martyritis: The mindset behind this epidemic in the nonprofit sector.  (22:12) - “But I suffered so much”: Why we need to break the cycle of abuse and neglect inside organizations.  (33:18) - Inner safety vs ego: How to be grounded in yourself and build empathy and knowledge from a place of wellbeing.  (37:03) - Finding out what works for you: Understanding what your real capacity is and building from there.  (46:24) - Where to find Kishshana + how you can work with her this coming year. 

When it comes to marketing, leadership, connection, and inspiring change, there is no one else out there quite like Seth Godin, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising. Seth is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and speaker. In addition to launching one of the most popular blogs in the world, he has written 20 best-selling books, including The Dip, Linchpin, Purple Cow, and Tribes (just to name a few of my favorites). Seth has spent his career trying to get us to be the best version of ourselves and when necessary, change everything.  As the son of parents rooted deeply in the nonprofit sector, Seth grew up around fundraising and regards fundraisers as powerful, professional agents for change. He’s not mincing words: it’s up to us to value and believe in exactly what we bring to the table. And fundraisers are bringing a lot of value to the table - the opportunity to give is a gift. You’ll want to take notes on Seth’s actionable advice for managing everyday fundraising challenges like internal resistance, demanding donors, fundraising in moments of uncertainty, and why hyper-focusing on outcomes is a recipe for burnout. And of course, because it’s Seth Godin, we had to talk about the need to build real relationships with our donors if we want long-term donors and sustainable fundraising. The pants-on-fire marketing and fake urgency not only shut serious donors down at the moment, but they burn a bridge for years to come. We decide how we show up in our communications; we can’t show up transactionally and then be surprised when we have low donor retention because we designed our fundraising for that outcome. The good news is that there is an entirely different way to fundraise. Seth’s famous quote, “people like us do things like this” demonstrates the way that donating is an important behavior rooted in identity. We talk about the fact that people not only choose your organization based on their current alignment with your work but inspiring people to give to your organization actually helps people cement their identity. Why does this matter? Because it means that fundraising isn’t just a ‘necessary evil’ to run our programs or a ‘means to an end’. It means that fundraising in itself - the movement of money in alignment with who people want to be - is actually a critical part of building your movement and community all on its own.  We also talk about how nonprofits should think and talk about ‘failure’. Seth gets that nonprofit work is about constantly pioneering and “doing experiments on the frontier,” which means we’re going to feel anxious, out of our depth, and at risk of failure — and that’s okay! In fact, that’s the point. We’re trying to solve problems that have never been solved before, testing and experimentation is the only way. And while failure is a loaded word it’s actually critically important because then we have learned one more thing that didn’t work. “Publishing your failures is an extremely generous thing to do,” says Seth, who believes the more data nonprofits share the quicker we can figure out what not to do. There is so much advice jam-packed into this 30min interview and it’s only the tip of the iceberg in terms of how Seth’s wisdom translates to nonprofit leadership. If we want to change the sector, and we want to change the fundraiser experiences in the sector, we have to change the way we think about the sector and our specific work. My hope is that this episode helps us do exactly that. Check out The Carbon Almanac to see the work Seth calls the most important project of his career. You should also run and sign up for Seth’s Blog and you can also learn more about his many upcoming workshops at this link. To get all of the show notes and takeaways visit: https://malloryerickson.com/podcast/episode-68-effective-fundraising-and-power-partner-principles-with-seth-godin/

It’s easy to feel intimidated – or even a little clueless – when it comes to leveraging potential funding sources like stock, cryptocurrency, ETFs, or IRAs. But when we’re avoidant, says my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising, we’re leaving money on the table. Vance Roush, Founder & CEO at Overflow isn’t suggesting that people running nonprofits need to become experts in any of these non-cash vehicles. We just need to partner well! That’s why this former Google employee, who recently raised $8 million in 45 days to secure a new church for the growing congregation he founded, developed a platform to manage and educate both donors and fundraisers. “We have an opportunity to unlock unprecedented amounts of generosity if we can remove that friction,” says Vance, who is tremendously optimistic about the future of solving problems like climate change and homelessness. Why? Because there is a palpable entrepreneurial energy among young people who want to do more than make apps and widgets. Vance has seen first-hand a growing wave of collaboration and innovation that he believes will move the needle on the most intractable social inequity.  You’ll learn about how Overflow is working to create a giving platform that – with a single button – opens up entirely new windows of possibility for donors with stock, crypto, and other non-cash resources. The net result? An increase in average donation amounts. And who doesn’t want that? So, as Vance says, it’s time to harness Silicon Valley’s venture-capital approach to fundraising by getting bold, risking failure, and inviting our prospective funders to go on the journey with us! Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. Please note: This episode is a part of a very special series called The People Behind the Products. More than ever, nonprofits care about the company behind their technology and service providers. What’s the underlying mission and vision of the company? What do they stand for? And how are they thinking about the sector and serving nonprofits? This series is an opportunity to get to know some of my favorite nonprofit technology companies so that the next time you’re making a tech decision, you can understand a little bit more about the people behind the product. There is no sponsorship or industry money behind the production of this series and the editorial content was at the sole discretion of the What the Fundraising team. 

We are looking at leadership strengths through a feminine lens on this episode of What the Fundraising with my guest, Natalie Rekstad. As Founder and CEO at Black Fox Philanthropy, Natalie is mobilizing resources in all kinds of innovative ways and – as importantly – makes them open source and welcoming to even the smallest organizations to tap a wealth of wisdom.  In the process of helping domestic nonprofits and international NGOs build capacities and strengthen their leadership frameworks, Natalie has also gathered tremendous data points on what kinds of qualities define the most highly functional organizations. One of the consistent throughlines, says Natalie, is leaders with a passionate commitment that is not all about themselves. While in the past there has been a lot of deference to charismatic, overtly strong male energy in leadership, we are seeing today a shift in appreciation towards the power of other, more nuanced qualities. Natalie shares a long list of the questions she asks when assessing who is at the helm of an organization and how their most pronounced qualities impact the culture. We also take a deep dive into the power dynamics that can trip up fundraisers, including feeling beholden or disempowered when presenting to funders. It’s about an equal exchange, says Natalie, and understanding that nonprofit teams have something as important as financial resources to bring to the equation.  If you’d like to learn more about how Black Fox’s trusted advisors deliver fundraising expertise to organizations of all sizes and budgets, you can read their blog, with fascinating articles like this one, “Choreography that Translates into Deeper Relationships and Increased Funding.” Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Want to raise more from the right funders without hounding them? Mallory’s FREE masterclass offers a great starting point! Many thanks to our sponsor, Neon One, the all-in-one donor management system that keeps small and midsized nonprofits on track with fundraising, communications, events, volunteers, and more. You can learn about Neon One's entire suite of products and services here and join me at this year’s Generosity Exchange by grabbing your ticket here.

Have you heard the myths that data management in nonprofits is too difficult, too expensive, and too time-consuming? Don't believe everything you hear! Join this conversion with Tim Lockie to learn the truth about developing a sustainable relationship with data in your organization. As Tim reminds us, data becomes information, and information becomes insight. Hailing from Bozeman, Montana, Tim's expertise lies in the intricate relationship between data, technology, and human behavior. As the Founder & CEO of The Human Stack, Tim has demonstrated a strong commitment to helping nonprofit leaders harness the power of data to make informed decisions. Throughout his career, he excelled at combining data, technology, and human relationships. However, during a conference in 2019, Tim was struck by a statistic: While 90% of organizations collect data, only 5% use it to make decisions. This realization led Tim to question his entire approach to helping organizations, ultimately prompting him to develop a new method that focused on teaching people how to effectively utilize their data. There is so much to learn from Tim's unique perspective and extensive knowledge in the world of data management so dive in to this episode and meet Tim! In this episode, we talk about: How to enhance trust in nonprofit data by confronting data avoidance. The Human Stack framework for optimizing technology usage. How to establish a long-lasting, healthy relationship with data within organizations. How to streamline data management and cleanup by prioritizing the right categories. How to conquer data anxiety and ignite a passion for data-driven curiosity. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Keela for making this episode possible and I want to invite you to join me for an upcoming webinar where are going to bust through the "clean data” myths and actually talk about how you focus on what’s actually important when acquiring and maintaining donor data, how to forge meaningful connections using that data, and how data can integrate with best practices in behavior design to get funders to say yes more easily. I'll help you overcome data challenges (including the perfectionism and overwhelm that often accompanies our data management) and build good habits for cleaner, more usable data. Sign up today at keela.co/wtf. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

When it comes to Gen Z, there is a cultural investigation going on that is challenging older generations to reflect and in many cases reset. Danielle Farage, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising, is a “Workplace Futurist” helping the first fully digital generation create a new sense of work-life harmony. As Director of Growth & Marketing at Café, a platform fostering development and collaboration within hybrid environments, Danielle’s mission is to leverage technology in bridging the gap between leaders and talent. The result? Workplace cultures that are more inclusive, equitable, and dynamic. Our conversation touched on everything from the biggest misconceptions about Gen Z’s collective commitment to self-care to the tendency among older generations to default to a workplace ethos that reflects different, less human-centric times. “We have an opportunity to reimagine the workforce and it’s not just about the younger generation. It’s about everyone,” says Danielle. “We have a serious opportunity to change the way things have been for the past however many centuries of work.” Applying her prism as an advocate and educator to the nonprofit sector, in particular, Danielle helped me explore further the tendency among hard-working, committed fundraisers to stay focused on altruistic, empathetic external goals while internally working under toxic conditions. We have to pause and consider: How can we effectively market the core values of our missions if our own workplace practices don’t align? For leaders and team members alike, it all starts with offering vulnerability and authenticity. You’ll discover in this dynamic give-and-take the opportunity we all have to reshape our definitions of work, play, community, compassion, connection, and even marketing. Says Danielle: “The better we create a relationship with ourselves, the more confidently we can show up at work – and in life.”  (02:23) Get to know Danielle, her journey and her work today. (07:11) Impact of mindset coaching on Danielle’s trajectory.  (08:05) How Danielle has helped evolve, rebrand and market the Café platform (11:25) Defining “Work Futurist”  (12:44) Work-life harmony  (17:44) Tips for re-thinking boundaries (19:23) How Danielle thinks about community engagement (and what it illuminates about fundraising dos and don’ts)  (23:16) Why the silo-ing of nonprofit goals (by department or budget line item) is often counterproductive (30:39) What Gen Z wants and the assumptions we hold that are all wrong  (37:42) What leaders can do to respond to the needs of Gen Z  (41:09) Where to find Danielle Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Many thanks to our sponsor, Feathr for making this episode possible. Our friends at Feather help nonprofits like yours level up their digital campaigns every day through their nonprofit marketing platform. Don’t rely on magic this year. Check out Feathr to streamline your digital marketing campaigns and exceed your goals. Learn more and get started today at Feathr.co. And don’t forget to tell them that I sent you! If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Today’s episode (or 2-part series) is quite heavy - we are going to be talking about sexual harassment in fundraising. There is explicit content and potentially triggering storytelling so I want to make sure you listen to today’s show in the right place - mentally, physically, and emotionally.   For this series, I have the incredible honor of interviewing Dr. Ann Olivarius who is recognized around the world for her pioneering work in representing victims of sexual violence, sexual harassment, and discrimination. Her firms in the US and UK have achieved landmark settlements for survivors of abuse and have successfully coordinated international efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.  In this episode, we hear about Ann’s coming of age and the background stories that led her to birth the legal case for sexual harassment and coin the term date rape. You will learn about Dr. Olivarius’ experience as a philanthropist as a part of Women Moving Millions, and how that experience has led to additional awareness about the different money stories we hold, and how deep they go.  In this conversation, we talk about some of the gender dynamics and historical foundational elements of the funder/fundraiser relationship that make it particularly vulnerable for sexual harassment situations. And we talk about some of the other forms of violence and racism in the sector because, as we know, sexual harassment is not the only form of harassment and abuse. At the same time, we also know that sexual harassment is a huge issue in our sector and one that needs to be talked about in a bigger way.  Dr. Olivarius shares a wide perspective on the issue; she shares some cases she’s worked on through her successful career and explains why we urgently need to change fundraising norms in the sector to break the cycle of toxic power dynamics.  Episode Highlights Part 1:  (04:42) - Who is Dr. Ann Olivarius? The sexual abuse and power dynamics during her coming of age and how that led to the work she does today. (08:53) - How the legal basis for sexual harassment came to be what we know today (17:07) - Dr. Olivarius’ experience with Women Moving Millions and how it impacts the way she looks at the movement of money and fundraising   (20:23) - Drawing the Line: The importance of holding people accountable for sexual harassment even if other problems arise as a result (22:29) - Money and Control: How theories on money and the movement of money is used to reinforce and protect power  (23:43) - Sexual harassment in philanthropy: the gender dynamics and historical foundational elements of the funder/fundraiser relationship that make it particularly vulnerable for sexual harassment  (27:06) - How do you know when it’s sexual harrassment? (27:31) - Changing the dynamic imbalance and how to create fundraising norms that support fundraisers to do their critical work. 

Today’s episode of What the Fundraising is a conversation with Emmie Erickson, my 3-year-old daughter. For months Emmie has been asking me to ‘make a podcast’ and I decided that GivingTuesday would be a great time for Emmie to read you her favorite book - I Am: Book of Reminders by Juana Medina. There are affirmations inside this book that feel particularly important to remind you of this GivingTuesday. Plus, scientific studies demonstrate that we release all sorts of feel-good chemicals when we see or hear something cute — we're wired to positively respond to cuteness. So, I hope this puts a smile on your face and if you need to practice the affirmations captured here, I highly recommend you listen multiple times and repeat after Emmie. Let’s boost those feel-good chemicals to help get you through this GivingTuesday, listen now to meet Emmie.  You can find today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to inject more curiosity and creativity into their fundraising efforts! Today’s guest is John Lepp, a partner at Agents of Good with over 25 years in direct response, marketing, and design. He is also the author of Creative Deviations, which highlights innovative donor communications worldwide. As an international speaker, John shares his expertise in infusing emotion and vulnerability into fundraising. Passionate about fostering genuine connections, he helps fundraisers engage more authentically with donors, leading to increased giving and loyalty. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore innovative approaches to donor-centered communications. Understand how to infuse emotion and vulnerability into fundraising efforts. Learn the benefits of embracing creativity and authenticity in donor interactions. Discover techniques for making minor, impactful adjustments to fundraising strategies. Recognize the importance of adapting to real-time changes and feedback. Understand the value of staying present and focused on current donor needs. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by Pledge. Our friends at pledge have just launched a super easy way to get your campaigns up and running using some pretty cool AI technology. Check out their newest tools pledge.to Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Sharing that I’m a person with ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) has definitely sparked feedback and conversation, which should come as no surprise. As Margaux Joffe, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising is perfectly positioned to explain, neurodivergence is a reality across all kinds of workplaces in every imaginable sector. “It represents the diverse range of human brains and neurocognitive functioning that exists in our species,” says Margaux, an innovator and advocate for people with disabilities of all kinds, but most especially those who are not “neurotypical.” She is helping us understand both the challenges and enormous strengths available to those of us whose brains work differently in a number of different ways.  This first part of our in-depth exploration focuses on identifying boundaries in the workplace (or a lack thereof) and how to put in place systems to support ourselves or those we lead in staying focused, productive and fulfilled in our missions. You’ll come away with some practical tools to deploy and a clear understanding of just how much those of us with ADHD and other disabilities (some 1 billion globally) have to offer when it comes to energy, ideas and fresh approaches. It starts with working across disciplines to ensure accessibility, inclusivity and respect for differing styles of learning and execution. Margaux, who founded the Kaleidoscope Society platform especially for adult women with ADHD, brings not just her personal story but a wealth of experience that will fire you up about disability inclusion inside our organizations – and celebration! Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Many thanks to our sponsor, Feathr for making this episode possible. Our friends at Feathr help nonprofits like yours level up their digital campaigns every day through their nonprofit marketing platform. Don’t rely on magic this year. Check out Feathr to streamline your digital marketing campaigns and exceed your goals. Learn more and get started today at Feathr.co. If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

As a fundraiser, your ability to handle stress is constantly tested. Fundraising requires lot of hard work, sacrifice, rejection, and honestly, sometimes trauma. If you have a sensitive nervous system, like many fundraisers do, you’re more prone to burnout, anxiety, and chronic stress. So, how can we prevent that? Today’s guest is here to help!  Dr. Linnea Passaler is the Founder and CEO of Heal Your Nervous System, a digital health startup that uses a combination of neuroscience and somatic work to help those struggling with overwhelm, trauma, burnout, and anxiety to heal their dysregulated nervous systems and thrive. This episode is particularly important to me because the more I have learned about the nervous system over the years, the more I have realized that one of the main barries that fundraisers face is that the work of fundraising can be very disregulating. And without the right understanding, tools and framework we don’t understand why we’re constantly experiencing low energy, dread, and burnout. We keep trying to manage our time, but I really think it’s all about how we manage our nervous system.  During this conversation, Linnea teaches you how to regulate your nervous system so that you can handle stress and accomplish more without it leading you to dysregulation and burnout. She details the connection between trauma and burnout and shares her 5-step framework for healing your nervous system. Because of your brain’s neuroplasticity, we can reverse the damage that’s done when we feel overwhelmed or powerless. If you’ve been feeling powerless, constantly overwhelmed, or a lack of purpose in your role as a fundraiser, don’t worry. You’re not alone and there is a light at the end of the tunnel! These tips are just what you need. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  A big shout out to our sponsor Instil, the holistic tool that reimagines nonprofit technology in ways that deepen community relationships and nonprofit processes to magnify impact. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics supercharge donors, increase volunteer engagement, and smooth donor management and operations across your entire organization. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Does this sound familiar? You pour hours of time and effort into crafting annual and impact reports for your nonprofit, only to receive lackluster responses from donors. You've been told that simply presenting the facts and figures will be enough to engage donors, but the pain of seeing minimal support tells a different story. It's time to break free from this ineffective approach and discover the transformative power of storytelling components in captivating your donors and creating meaningful connections. Meet Josh Kligman, the heart and brain behind Yearly, a platform revolutionizing the way nonprofits approach storytelling and impact reports. Having worn the hat of a marketer and fundraiser, Josh has navigated the intricate labyrinth of content creation for impactful reports for years. Backed by his hands-on experience in nonprofits, he's tackling the challenge of engaging donors and stakeholders right where they stand. Today, he champions the integration of diverse storytelling elements such as photos, videos, and social media posts into a flexible digital impact report tool, ensuring that vital tales of change aren't lost amidst digital noise. In this episode, you will: Dig deeper into the hurdles confronted when developing annual and impact reports for nonprofits. Explore the revolutionary transition from print-based reports to digital platforms in the nonprofit landscape. Examine the strategic use of storytelling and its pivotal role in magnetizing donors. Encounter the rising tide of personalization in nonprofit reporting and its significance in today's digital age. Understand the ethical application of tech tools in the nonprofit sphere and their transformative effects. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Breauna Dolerus is Founder and Chief Cause Consultant at Connecting the Cause. Her work is centered on uprooting harmful volunteerism practices especially in black and brown communities based on the principle that transformational service must help instead of harm. Join this very real conversation with Breauna white supremacy and its relationship with voluntarism, how to truly partner with a community, and the deep-rooted biases that need to be cut short in the nonprofit world. Episode highlights:  (01:48) - Who is Breauna Dorelus? Community-centered volunteerism. (05:18) - Are you really of service? Some of the most hurtful common practices in volunteerism. (09:38) - How to build truly community-centered strategies: The first step to admitting to deep-rooted biases. (19:27) - Can we fundamentally break the system for co-liberation? The true empowerment of black and brown voices in the nonprofit sector.  (24:42) - White supremacy and its relation to volunteerism: Why we need to work as a resource center for the communities’ dreams, not for corporation’s interests.  (29:19) - Finding true mutually beneficial alignment in volunteer opportunities: Assessing a dignified way to partner with others.  (38:44) - Relationship dynamics: Building strong community relationships and truly working together. (43:57) - Scarcity mindset and hurtful money: How to break the cycle and search for real solutions.  (47:36) - Where to find Breauna + A last piece of advice: Find a black or brown organization doing the work.  If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.

Maya Angelou famously said, “Now that I know better, I do better.” It’s a sentiment that perfectly captures the spirit behind EmbraceRace, a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing children who are thoughtful, informed, and brave in taking on all aspects of equity and justice. On this episode of What the Fundraiser its founder, Andrew Grant Thomas, helps us explore difficult conversations – why we need to have them and what they can look like. It’s not always going to be pretty, and that’s okay! In fact, says Andrew, that’s the point. Progress is a process that requires us – as fundraisers, parents and community members – to chip away at false assumptions and structural racism in all its ugliness. The more we engage, the quicker we can break through to meaningful dialogue and understanding.  Andrew shares fascinating insights from the frontlines of early childhood, where honest conversations need to start. You’ll learn about EmbraceRace’s four foundational pillars and how this vibrant nonprofit is guided by them. He also invites us to “imagine if we understood race in a way that allowed all the range of emotions to show and not disproportionately things like fear and anxiety and resentment.” We also discuss the concept of giving ourselves grace, which is not an excuse to step away when we mess up. To the contrary, when interactions around race (or any other sensitive topic) go awry, we must be brave and push forward. So long as there’s an effort to repair, says Andrew, an opportunity exists to grow and improve. In other words, it’s progress – not perfection! (02:01) A brief intro to EmbraceRace (04:25) About the pillars Andrew and his organization deploy in helping people be brave about difficult conversations (09:21) How EmbraceRace helps people move through any resistance and face head-on issues. (12:24) Where resistance comes from (17:41) How kids (versus adults) understand and respond with openness and curiosity to narratives around race and justice.  (20:06) Why it’s okay to have uncomfortable conversations. (22:04) Great advice about confronting race that applies equally to fundraising (25:46) About knowing that things will come out right IF we keep on trying and making repairs along the way.  (29:44) What accountability looks like and Andrew’s assessment of DEI, educational and other efforts to combat structural racism and the very real ripple effects across society. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Many thanks to our sponsor, Keela for making this episode possible. Our friends at Keela offers nonprofits like yours a comprehensive fundraising and donor management software, equipped with powerful tools to expand your reach, increase fundraising revenue, and foster a dedicated community of supporters. Want a user-friendly platform that provides actionable data? Learn more at Keela.

Grassroots storytelling emphasizes genuine, human experiences that can deeply connect with the audience. Rather than focusing on a polished narrative, it prioritizes the authenticity and raw emotions of individuals who are not professional storytellers. This form of storytelling can have a profound impact on the listener, as it evokes empathy and understanding by showcasing the unfiltered realities faced by real people. In this episode we interview Chris Miano, a passionate advocate for authentic storytelling and founder of MemoryFox, a storytelling platform for nonprofits to collect and leverage stories from their communities for fundraising and marketing. MemoryFox was initially designed as a storytelling platform for pre-dementia elderly but pivoted to serve all nonprofits. Chris has an incredible journey that started with his time in the Army and the desire to preserve his grandfather's stories from World War II.  In this episode, Chris urges non-profit marketers to embrace grassroots storytelling, rejecting the idea of creating perfect, scripted stories. Instead, Chris values the imperfections as a representation of genuine human experience. He believes that the energy, tone, and body language of the storyteller are more compelling than carefully selected words, emphasizing the need for non-profits to prioritize honest and relatable narratives. For nonprofits, grassroots storytelling also provides an avenue to hear and learn from their own communities and share these insights with a wider audience, effectively promoting their cause. In this episode, you will: 1. Discover the power of authentic storytelling to inspire support for non-profits.  2. Uncover the ethical dilemmas of using personal experiences in fundraising efforts.  3. Learn about cultivating stronger bonds between non-profit organizations and funders through compelling narratives.  4. Tap into the potential of technology and younger generations to drive social change.  5. Master the art of streamlining non-profit promotion through user-friendly platforms. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Nonprofits have unique marketing requirements in comparison to other business entities. Unless they have programs that they specifically market for, their focus is primarily on generating awareness, engaging potential donors, and making a substantial impact on their target audience. To achieve this, nonprofits must understand their target audience's needs, wants, and preferences, and tailor their marketing efforts accordingly.  In this episode, we talk with Aidan Augustin, a visionary leader, co-founder, and Chief Revenue Officer at Feathr, a marketing software company designed specifically for nonprofits. With a passion for helping organizations grow their online presence, Aidan has played a pivotal role in supporting over 1,200 organizations using Feathr's innovative tools. His expertise in website analytics, targeted digital advertising, email marketing, and automation have made Aidan a sought-after voice in the nonprofit sector. As a guest on today’s episode, Aidan shares his insights into leveraging data and technology for effective nonprofit marketing campaigns, bridging the gap between traditional marketing strategies and the unique needs of nonprofit organizations. In the digital age, simply showcasing the work that they do is not enough.  So instead of viewing marketing as a necessary evil and doing the bare minimum, nonprofits should see it as a powerful tool to create positive change. By focusing on the potential impact on fundraising and mission achievement, Aidan encourages nonprofits to fully embrace marketing strategies and tactics designed specifically for their needs. In this episode, you will be able to:  1. Grasp how digital marketing plays a pivotal role in nonprofit fundraising and mission success.  2. Understand the power of personalized marketing in nurturing potential donor-nonprofit relationships.  3. Discover how to effectively combine one-to-one activities with digital marketing techniques.  4. Delve into deepening donor connections through the use of one-to-many communication channels.  5. Learn the importance of leveraging data and technology in crafting efficient nonprofit marketing campaigns. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Sometimes it’s our job as integral change leaders to be the reality check – even when it’s not easy or means leaving money on the table. Bessi Graham, my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising, is helping us think in new ways about bravery – the willingness to stand up as nonprofits and claim our value propositions, state our limitations and insist on donor partners whose values align with our own. With 20 years of experience working with business owners, governments, and large funding bodies, Bessi is uniquely positioned to counsel fundraisers on how to balance charitable purpose and pragmatic financial reality. She is sharing with us concrete strategies for reorienting difficult conversations in ways that not only break through miscommunication but set nonprofits up to succeed. It starts with defining sustainability and the tools we need to meet our mission. The first challenge for nonprofit leaders is to reject feeling beholden. No more approaching the donor table from a place of scarcity! “Shifting your own apologetic nature is on you. How do you show up in the room differently?” asks Bessi. “Because power dynamics shift immediately when someone is engaged as an equal.” You’ll come away from this conversation with a new framework for the difficult conversations we all need to have, at least from time to time. So much of what burns out nonprofit fundraisers is the struggle to make good on unrealistic expectations and navigate through unbalanced power dynamics that set us up for stress and failure. Bessi shines a bright light on how we can do things differently and this conversation felt like a great place to start! (02:21) Bessi frames her overarching mission to bring “doing good” and “making money” back under the same umbrella through sustainable business models. (04:53) About merging values that we’ve been programmed to feel are mutually exclusive and incompatible. (08:39) Bessi highlights what traditionally has been an unforced but perceived choice between careers designed to do good versus make money.  (11:51) Exploring the unquestioned binary prioritization of charitable purpose, mission, and values.  (15:04) Bessi takes a closer look at the unhealthy power dynamics and unsustainable expectations that hinder the ability of nonprofit leaders to do good in the world. (16:29) Navigating conversations with board members around overhead and responsible pay (21:28) Bessi urges nonprofits to look at relationships through a values-based lens that allows a different conversation. (23:23) How to reorient donor conversations (25:12) Making the distinction between ethical and impact investments  (27:07) Why the make-do mentality within the nonprofit sector skews power dynamics, creates perpetual scarcity, and ultimately limits the ability of nonprofits to deliver. (30:59) How nonprofits can leverage transparency to create realistic donor relationships and control funding cycles, expectations, and outcomes. (32:52) What it looks like when nonprofits push back on donor demands (39:42) Where to find out more about Bessi and her work Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Follow along on Instagram  Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn Many thanks to our sponsor, Feathr for making this episode possible. Our friends at Feather help nonprofits like yours level up their digital campaigns every day through their nonprofit marketing platform. Don’t rely on magic this year. Check out Feathr to streamline your digital marketing campaigns and exceed your goals. Learn more and get started today at Feathr.co. If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

When it comes to non-profit work, your ability to fundraise is not possible if you do not prioritize your mental health and wellness. The clarity, energy, and ability you’re looking for does not reside in how much you push yourself, but how you take care of yourself. Here to unpack that is further is Rosa Julia Rivera, a clinical therapist and Co-Owner of Chicago Growth Mindset, a Latina-led private practice specializing in integrating workplace mental wellness programs and providing evidence-based behavioral healthcare for high stress professionals, community healers, leaders, and first responders. In this episode, Rosa offers you her expertise on creating a culture and mindset inside your organization that supports the health, wellness, and recovery of people in high stress, mission-driven positions. She also gives tangible advice on how to thrive and feel empowered as a development director in a non-profit, even if your boss doesn’t prioritize employee well-being. As we’re experiencing an unprecedented mental health crisis, and particularly high burnout across our sector, this episode is more critical than ever. And if you gain something from it, don’t hesitate to share it with a friend, coworker, or loved one you think would enjoy it. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  A big shout out to our sponsor Instil, the holistic tool that reimagines nonprofit technology in ways that deepen community relationships and nonprofit processes to magnify impact. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics supercharge donors, increase volunteer engagement, and smooth donor management and operations across your entire organization. learn more at instil.io/mallory.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

This episode explores how the future of fundraising is being reshaped, making it easier for fundraisers to thrive and, ultimately, raise more money with greater ease and satisfaction! Join Nick Fitz, the Founder & CEO of Momentum, a pioneering company focused on enhancing the fundraising experience for nonprofits through innovative technology. Nick holds a BA in philosophy and policy from Grinnell College and an MA in psychology and society from the University of British Columbia. His expertise and insights have been featured in prominent publications such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Nature. Before founding Momentum, Nick was a Senior Behavioral Scientist at Duke University's Center for Advanced Hindsight & Startup Lab, where he led research on the psychology of fundraising and donor behavior. His work blends a deep understanding of human behavior with practical applications in the nonprofit sector. In this episode, you will be able to:  Recognize the importance of focusing on the psychology and well-being of fundraisers and donor behavior. Identify systemic issues and day-to-day frustrations that lead to high turnover and burnout among fundraisers. Learn how improving the work experience for fundraisers can lead to better fundraising outcomes. Explore innovative approaches to streamline fundraising processes. Discover methods to reduce administrative burdens for fundraisers. Appreciate the value of fostering a sense of community and support among fundraisers. Examine strategies to enhance connections and collaboration within fundraising teams. Realize the impact of reducing isolation and promoting well-being among fundraisers. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

The brittleness, burnout, and even breakdown that so many of us in the nonprofit world experience isn’t just an occupational hazard. It’s symptomatic of a much more far-reaching cultural framework, which is why my guest on this episode of What the Fundraising is all about disruption. Rebekah Giacomantonio, a facilitator and community healer, took a necessary pause from her career in restorative justice to restore herself. And she’s sharing with us how living into the fabric of Guatemala’s culture and ethos reshaped her entire life orientation. By taking a hard break from working and living the American nonprofit gauntlet, Rebekah was able to step into a model of healing that works on collective, interpersonal, and systemic levels. A small community of liberation theology-oriented missionaries helped her understand at the deepest level that there is no right and wrong; only the messy. She learned to pause, breathe, and notice what was in her body. Most of all, she came to understand just how deeply entrenched and reflexive privilege can be.  In today’s episode, we dive into Rebekah’s journey and her work today, focused on her Interdependence Incubator - a program that supports white women and nonbinary people who want to free themselves of toxic conditioning and harmful behavior patterns. We talk about how to work with shame, disarm defensiveness and sit with ourselves in fearful or reactive moments. The work involves a lot of curiosity and questions but results in expanding tolerance by rewiring our brains, settling our nervous systems, and practicing radical self-acceptance.  Rebekah’s passion for this work is palpable and the tools she offers are an invitation to look at what’s uncomfortable. There is a lot inside the episode that might be a completely different paradigm shift for you, but we invite you to go there and see what comes up in your body and mind. Episode Highlights: (02:54) – Rebekah shares a bit about her background  (05:00) – An indigenous missionary community based on liberation theology (06:20) – The essence of what Rebekah found in her Guatemalan journey.  (07:43) – Healing and restoration cannot occur in this environment (08:08) – About Rebekah’s restorative justice training and the “aha” moment that lead her here (08:53) – The personal and collective are inextricably intertwined (12:57) – Defining and understanding disembodiment  (15:45) – How to become a more embodied leader  (18:29) – Simplifying it way down  (20:14) – The nonprofit world and taking itself less seriously and learning to play  (22:18) – The process Rebekah’s clients typically go through (25:40) – About grappling with the grey areas (26:15) – Liberation lies in the navigation of spaces that hold multiple truths (28:40) – Stories about people in the nonprofit world suffering mental and physical breakdowns  (32:05) – White people can opt-out of discomfort because of their privilege (33:00) – How to name what’s happening in our bodies and settle our nervous systems (33:36) – How to break cycles of defensiveness and gaslighting (37:51) - Connect with Rebekah

Join us in exploring the insightful perspectives and invaluable experiences of Lauren Sheehan as she navigates the intersection of technology, empathy, and nonprofit impact. Meet Lauren Sheehan, the dynamic President of DonorPerfect, bringing a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the world of SaaS computer software. With over a decade of leadership in the industry, Lauren has honed her skills in spearheading client service teams, demonstrating a remarkable ability to build and nurture high-performing teams. Her passion for serving customers and employees is evident in her compassionate approach, marked by empathy and a genuine commitment to excellence. Lauren's infectious energy and strategic mindset have played a pivotal role in shaping DonorPerfect's customer-centric ethos, making her a driving force behind the company's success.   In this episode, you will be able to: Explore Lauren's insights on AI, customer support, and the role of empathy in tech. Delve into the power of analogies and DonorPerfect's commitment to empowering nonprofits. Gain insights into training, customer satisfaction, and the need for impactful storytelling. Discover Donor Perfect's dedication as a true partner in the nonprofit community, going beyond software. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

In this episode, Mallory and her guest, Dr. Marcus Collins, explores the profound influence of culture on human behavior in fundraising. They discuss how cultural norms shape our perceptions and actions, the distinction between fast and slow culture, and the importance of storytelling in redefining the nonprofit sector.  The dialogue emphasizes the need for small, incremental changes to foster a more positive culture around giving and fundraising, ultimately aiming to create a more engaged and generous society. Dr. Marcus Collins is an award-winning marketer and cultural translator. He is the former chief strategy officer at Wieden+Kennedy, New York, a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, and the author of the best-selling book, For The Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want To Be.  Key takeaways from the episode:  Culture is the most influential force on human behavior. Understanding culture requires a shared definition. Cultural lenses affect how we perceive and interact with the world. Social norms guide our behavior in various contexts. Fast culture changes quickly, while slow culture evolves gradually. Fundraising practices are deeply influenced by cultural beliefs. Positive experiences in giving can reshape perceptions of philanthropy. Storytelling is essential for nonprofits to connect with their audience. Small changes can lead to significant cultural shifts over time. Agency in giving is crucial for fostering genuine generosity. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by GiveButter. GiveButter is the easiest-to-use fundraising platform.  Your favorite fundraising tools, supercharged! Never miss a fundraising opportunity again. Givebutter Plus takes this award-winning platform to the next level with advanced automation, deeper donor insights, and eye-popping supporter engagement tools to help your nonprofit get ahead—and stay there. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

Meet Maarten Bout, Vice President for Major and Transformational Giving at United Way of Central Indiana, overseeing a team of 10 fundraisers. With over 12 years of experience, including major gift roles at Indiana University, he brings extensive expertise in donor engagement, team leadership, and advancing impactful philanthropic strategies.  In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the significance of empathy in enhancing donor-fundraiser relationships. Recognize the limitations of traditional fundraising metrics focused on short-term goals. Learn strategies to foster meaningful and long-term donor engagement. Identify the impact of fundraiser turnover on donor relationships and fundraising outcomes. Discover how improved working conditions can lead to more engaged and effective fundraisers. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Support for this show is brought to you by GiveButter. GiveButter is the easiest-to-use fundraising platform.  Your favorite fundraising tools, supercharged! Never miss a fundraising opportunity again. Givebutter Plus takes this award-winning platform to the next level with advanced automation, deeper donor insights, and eye-popping supporter engagement tools to help your nonprofit get ahead—and stay there. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point

What does it take to let go of pre-established narratives? Duke Stump is a marketing expert and founder of Bonfire With Soul. His approach to business is far from conventional and partly based on nature’s knowledge. In this episode, Duke and I talk about burning dogma, the potential for good in the for-profit and nonprofit world, and the power of cross-sector symbiosis. Tune in now! Episode highlights:  (02:21) - Trust your own radar: What does it take to go a different path especially in business?  (7:05) - Burning dogma for breakfast: Duke’s experience giving himself permission to be creative and the importance of human connection. (13:40) - Can for-profit businesses be a force of good? How making a nonprofit/for-profit distinction can minimize possibility and shrink your horizons.  (36:48) - Duke’s principles and barriers of mutual benefit: Trust, honesty, and our obsession with perfection. (44:00) - Helper energy and martyrdom: Fundraiser’s most common leadership characteristics and what needs to change.   (48:13) - Groundbreaking nonprofits and why the sector needs to tackle debilitating stigma. If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.

Through her own experiences of feeling powerless and vulnerable when in the data of powerful organizations, Meena Das found an unexpected passion for exploring the importance of data transparency and ethics. Fueled by her commitment to data equity, Meena has dedicated much of her career to helping others understand the need for more human approaches to data.  Meena is a data consultant and workshop facilitator specializing in ethical data practices. Meena's experience as a first-generation immigrant from India has informed her passion for promoting transparency and ethics in data-driven initiatives within the nonprofit sector. With over 15 years of experience in technology and nonprofit industries, Meena has developed a unique approach that encourages organizations to be more intentional, purpose-driven, and conscious in their use of data science and AI. Her workshops cover a range of topics, including data equity and centering humans in algorithms. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain awareness on how data equity is essential in nonprofit data collection and implementation. Grasp the essentiality of maintaining transparency and adhering to ethical standards in data-driven initiatives. Appreciate the interconnectedness of personal experiences and emotions with data application and interpretation. Enhance your donor personas by incorporating intersectionality and complex attributes to capture the target audience effectively. Strengthen community bonds through a participatory approach embedded in your data collection and analysis strategies. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Many thanks to our sponsor, Keela for making this episode possible and I want to invite you to join me for an upcoming webinar where are going to bust through the "clean data” myths and actually talk about how you focus on what’s actually important when acquiring and maintaining donor data, how to forge meaningful connections using that data, and how data can integrate with best practices in behavior design to get funders to say yes more easily.  I'll help you overcome data challenges (including the perfectionism and overwhelm that often accompanies our data management) and build good habits for cleaner, more usable data. Sign up today at keela.co/wtf. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

Lindsay Simonds is a senior, nonprofit, fundraising and management professional with notable experience partnering with organizations for transformational change.  In this episode, Lindsay provides donor retention strategies and best practices you can implement inside your fundraising approaches and use to strengthen your team, right now. You can feel our excitement around these topics while we make revelation after revelation about retention tactics in this space. It’s an episode you can’t afford to miss!  This episode is a part of a mini-series on donor retention thanks to our incredible sponsors at DonorPerfect. DonorPerfect has a lot of free educational resources for fundraisers. Learn more and download some of their guides and tools today at donorperfect.com/mallory