Let's Talk Fundraising (Keith Greer, CFRE)

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Welcome to "Let's Talk Fundraising" with your host, Keith Greer, CFRE! In this trailer, Keith introduces you to the heart and soul of our new podcast, dedicated to exploring the core principles of fundraising and how innovative tools, techniques, and technology can elevate your efforts. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned pro, this podcast is designed to inspire and empower you to master the fundamentals and leverage new strategies for greater impact. Subscribe now and join us on this exciting journey to fundraising success!

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Hey there, Ambitious Fundraisers! Welcome to the first official episode of "Let's Talk Fundraising!" I'm your host, Keith Greer, and I'm thrilled to kick off this journey with you. In this episode, we’re diving into "The Power of Donor Surveys" – a game-changer for understanding and engaging your donor base.

Join me as we explore why donor surveys matter, how they can revolutionize your fundraising approach, and the incredible impact they can have on your organization. We'll start with the fundamentals and share real-life stories of success that will inspire and equip you to implement these strategies in your own work.

Don't miss out on Part Two, where we'll break down the different types of donor surveys and how to use them effectively. Hit subscribe, share with fellow fundraisers, and get ready to transform your fundraising game!

Tune in, get comfy, and let’s dive into the world of donor surveys together. Let's unlock their full potential and strengthen our connections with our supporters. Enjoy the episode!

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Welcome back, Ambitious Fundraisers! In this exciting episode of "Let's Talk Fundraising," we dive deep into the transformative power of Lapsed Donor Surveys. Discover how these invaluable tools can help you understand why donors stop giving and, more importantly, how you can win them back.

Join your host, Keith Greer, as he shares a personal story from his experience with launching a Lapsed Donor Survey in a previous organization. Learn how a straightforward question and a little bit of bravery led to an incredible increase in donor retention rates, taking the organization from a 31% retention rate to an impressive 54%.

We'll cover:
- Gift triggered donor surveys
- Engagement surveys
- Communication surveys
- Prospecting surveys

And don’t miss our special feature on using AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity to enhance your survey creation process. Plus, ensure your organization is ready for AI with our free AI Organizational Readiness Assessment Guide. Download it today at letstalkfundraising.com/aireadiness.

Tune in and get ready to transform your donor relationships one survey at a time! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with your friends. And if you didn’t, well, just keep that to yourself. 😉

AI Organizational Readiness Assessment Guide

#Fundraising #Nonprofit #DonorRetention #LapsedDonorSurveys #AIInFundraising #LetsTalkFundraising

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Hey there, hi, and welcome, Ambitious Fundraisers! 🎙️ In this episode of Let's Talk Fundraising, we're diving deep into creating a culture of philanthropy within your organization. We'll explore why a unified vision is crucial and share strategies to engage everyone from board members to donors. 

Join me as I share personal stories from my own experiences, illustrating how shifting an organization's culture can lead to remarkable transformations. We'll discuss the pivotal roles of board members, staff, volunteers, and donors, and how their engagement can lead to a more fulfilling and impactful fundraising experience.

Plus, we'll explore how generative AI can streamline your efforts, from personalized communications to engaging content creation, freeing up your time for strategic planning and relationship building.

Don't miss this episode filled with insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories that will help you build a vibrant culture of philanthropy in your nonprofit. Download our free AI Organizational Readiness Assessment Guide at www.letstalkfundraising.com/AIReadiness to ensure your nonprofit is ready to embrace AI with confidence.

Tune in now and let's make fundraising more impactful and rewarding together!

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In this episode of Let's Talk Fundraising, we’re diving deep into the world of fundraising metrics. Join me, Keith Greer, CFRE, as we explore the top 10 metrics that can transform your nonprofit’s fundraising strategy from good to great.

We'll start with a captivating story from a small Sicilian village that learned the power of understanding their supporters, and then break down each essential metric: from Cost Per Dollar Raised and Donation Revenue Growth Rate to Average Gift Size and Donor Retention Rate. These metrics aren’t just numbers; they’re the heartbeat of your organization, guiding you toward more effective strategies and stronger donor relationships.

Plus, stick around for a special bonus metric on Visitation and Engagement Metrics, crucial for major gift fundraising success. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a comprehensive toolkit to refine your strategies, improve your outcomes, and ultimately make a bigger impact.

Tune in, take notes, and get ready to elevate your fundraising game!

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Hey there, hi, and welcome back to Let’s Talk Fundraising! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of fundraising events. Before the pandemic, traditional events like galas often felt like a chore—expensive, repetitive, and sometimes even a punchline. But as the landscape has shifted, so have our opportunities to create meaningful, engaging events that align with our missions and resonate with our supporters.

Join me as we explore how to reimagine fundraising events to better connect with donors, engage communities, and build lasting relationships. We’ll discuss the evolution of donor expectations, the hidden costs of traditional events, and innovative ideas to transform your approach. Whether you’re looking to enhance donor stewardship, boost donor acquisition, or strengthen community ties, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

We’ll also share a heartfelt story about a hospice event that not only honored loved ones but brought an entire community together in a profound way. You can watch the video of this beautiful event here: Lantern Floating Ceremony.

If you find this episode helpful, please share it with your friends and colleagues. Let’s inspire more fundraisers to rethink their events and make a greater impact. As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas, so feel free to reach out and share your success stories.

Thanks for tuning in to Let’s Talk Fundraising. Until next time, keep striving for greatness and making a difference in the world.

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Hey there, hi, and welcome back to Let’s Talk Fundraising! Have you ever felt like you’re just throwing spaghetti at the wall with your newsletters and appeals, hoping something sticks? In this episode, we dive into a game-changing concept that can transform the way you connect with your donors: donor personas.

Join us as we break down what donor personas are and why they’re essential for effective fundraising. We'll explore how to create these personas, the steps to gather meaningful insights, and the magic that happens when you speak directly to your donors' hearts and passions.

Imagine crafting messages that resonate so deeply with your supporters that they feel you’re speaking directly to them. Learn how to celebrate the small victories, nurture a sense of belonging, and foster long-term loyalty with your donors. Whether you’re dealing with diverse donor bases or targeting specific segments, this episode will equip you with the tools to tailor your communications and inspire greater engagement and donations.

Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s unlock the power of donor personas together. Tune in to "Speak to Their Hearts: The Power of Donor Personas" and discover how personalized messaging can transform your fundraising efforts.

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Ever wondered how to turn your personal network into a powerhouse donor base for your nonprofit? Discover how to engage co-workers, family, and friends who already trust you, and transform them into dedicated supporters. We'll walk you through the art of hosting intimate parlor meetings where you can connect deeply with potential donors, share your mission compellingly, and foster long-term relationships. This episode highlights the essentials of genuine communication and the importance of maintaining transparency to build a solid foundation for growth.

Uncover the secrets of identifying and engaging major donors to propel your cause forward. By leveraging wealth screening tools and understanding donor history, you can pinpoint individuals with the capacity and inclination to give. Learn proven techniques for personalized engagement through exclusive events, one-on-one meetings, and tailored follow-ups. Additionally, we dive into the benefits of recurring giving programs and corporate partnerships to create a reliable income stream and boost donor retention. Get ready for actionable insights that will transform your fundraising challenges into successful endeavors.

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Ready to transform your Giving Day fundraising efforts? Join me as I share my personal journey from early setbacks to a triumphant campaign that raised over $74,000 in the first attempt at launching a giving day campaign. We'll uncover the five essential steps to ensure your campaign's success, including setting ambitious yet achievable goals, devising a comprehensive marketing strategy, building complementary campaigns, maintaining momentum with real-time updates, and pre-planning evaluation metrics. These insights are crafted to help you not only hit your targets but also attract a wave of new supporters.

Ever wondered what makes a Giving Day campaign truly effective? This episode dissects the strategic elements you need to master, from analyzing donor patterns to deciding whether specific projects or unrestricted funds are more compelling. I'll show you how to set both monetary and non-monetary goals, and why a targeted marketing approach is crucial. We’ll delve into the power of personal touches, emotional storytelling, and how to create easy entry points for new supporters. Plus, we’ll explore the dual focus of fundraising and awareness campaigns to ensure your message resonates across all channels.

Finally, we emphasize the importance of pre-planning your campaign evaluation metrics to accurately measure success and refine future strategies. Learn how aligning metrics with your goals can keep your team focused and cohesive. We’ll discuss detailed tracking methods for donations, donor acquisition, and engagement metrics, as well as the value of qualitative feedback. And don’t miss out on the Giving Day Sprint—a fast-paced program designed to help you create a successful multi-channel campaign in just five days. Register now and elevate your fundraising game to new heights.

https://www.letstalkfundraising.com/sprint

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Can expressing genuine gratitude transform your fundraising efforts? In this episode, we promise to reveal how the simple act of saying thank you can enhance donor relationships, reduce stress, and reinvigorate your passion for your mission. Explore practical strategies for making your gratitude heartfelt and impactful, plus get inspired by resources like "The Happiness Project" by Gretchen Rubin and the "10% Happier" podcast that can give your gratitude practice a meaningful boost.

We'll also tackle the common obstacles fundraisers face when trying to incorporate gratitude into their daily routines, from time constraints to emotional exhaustion. Learn how keeping a gratitude journal, starting meetings with gratitude sharing, and personalizing your thank yous can make a world of difference. We conclude with an invitation to implement a new gratitude practice and share your experiences, fostering a supportive and appreciative fundraising community. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to transform your well-being and the success of your philanthropic efforts through the power of gratitude.

10% Happier Podcast with Dan Harris
The Happiness Story - Stanford Report
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin - This link is an Amazon Affiliate Link, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through it at no additional cost to you.

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Ever wondered how a college internship could lead to a fulfilling career in fundraising? Discover the transformative story of how an internship at Walt Disney World shaped skills in guest relations, trust-building, and creating magical moments, which seamlessly transitioned into a rewarding trajectory in fundraising. This episode uncovers why understanding people's motivations and resolving their concerns is crucial, not just in hospitality but also in nurturing donor relationships.

We explore the elements that make a career truly satisfying: joy, purpose, and fair compensation. Whether you're embarking on a new career path or a seasoned fundraiser, learn why it's essential to identify what makes your work meaningful and never settle for anything less. Hear candid reflections on how meeting your core needs can make any challenge more manageable, and why everyone deserves to feel happy, fulfilled, and secure in their roles. Tune in for valuable insights that could reshape your approach to finding long-term happiness and success in your professional life.

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Unlock the secrets to successful major gifts and capital campaigns with Paul Johnson, the visionary founder of Creative Fundraising Advisors. With over 30 years of experience, Paul shares his invaluable strategies and real-world examples, perfect for both small nonprofits and large institutions. We discuss the critical readiness factors that can make or break your campaign, and the necessity of having a big vision—your North Star—that drives transformative changes like new buildings, endowments, or programs. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or a novice, this episode promises insights that will elevate your fundraising efforts.

We dive into the importance of building a culture of philanthropy within your organization, especially crucial for smaller nonprofits. Paul offers practical advice on coordinating campaign plans with annual giving to prevent cannibalizing funds. We discuss how right-sizing your campaigns can build donor confidence and highlight the power of celebrating significant gifts to nurture a philanthropic spirit among staff and board members. By incorporating mission moments in board meetings and involving the entire staff in donor acknowledgments, you’ll see how these practices can reinforce the central role of philanthropy in achieving your mission.

Get ready to be inspired by Paul's tips on strategic planning and maximizing fundraising success. He outlines the key elements of a robust strategic plan, emphasizing clear mission, vision, and guiding values, coupled with actionable goals. Learn why individual philanthropy is pivotal in campaigns and how to harness the power of a strong individual donor base. For small fundraising teams, Paul shares strategies to leverage board members and leadership effectively. We end on an uplifting note, celebrating the nobility of the fundraising profession and encouraging boldness and confidence in your efforts. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable tips and inspiring stories, making it a must-listen for anyone committed to advancing their organization's mission through effective fundraising.

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Kevin L. Brown's LinkedIn Post that caught my eye.

Ever felt like you're chasing donors who just aren’t that into you? It's time to rethink your strategy. This episode of Let's Talk Fundraising takes a deep dive into why some donors remain elusive and how to stop wasting your time. Inspired by Kevin L Brown's thought-provoking LinkedIn post and insights from sales expert Liz Wendling, we explore the signs that it's time to move on from unresponsive donors. Discover practical tips on maintaining your dignity and confidence, turning your focus to those who truly resonate with your mission. 

Drawing wisdom from the resilient gardeners of New Mexico, we emphasize the principle of "cultivating what grows." Not every donor relationship is worth the chase, just as not every plant thrives in the desert. By aligning our efforts with those who are genuinely interested, we can foster meaningful relationships that lead to transformative support for our communities. Tune in to learn how to break free from desperation cycles and invest in connections that truly matter.

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Can you imagine fostering genuine understanding between political opponents in today's polarized climate? In this episode, we promise you'll gain the tools to do just that by learning from Dawn Strauss, Director of Development at Braver Angels. Dawn shares her remarkable journey of bringing Trump and Clinton supporters together through Braver Angels’ innovative Red Blue Workshops, which have grown into over a hundred alliances nationwide. We dive into how these initiatives not only heal personal and community relationships but also empower organizations to transcend political divides.

Fundraising in such a divided landscape presents unique challenges, especially when engaging donors with starkly different viewpoints. We recount a gripping real-life example where a conversation with a donor about January 6th could have gone awry but instead turned into a lesson on the power of active listening and respectful dialogue. Make sure to check out the Trustworthy Elections Report Braver Angels has put together. This chapter underscores that while discomfort is inevitable, it is also essential for depolarization and fostering mutual respect. Supporting organizations for their mission, rather than the political stance of their leaders, is a crucial takeaway that can revolutionize your fundraising approach.

Listening is an art, especially when engaging with those who hold opposing views. We explore how attentive listening not only builds bridges but can also correct misinformation and lead to unexpected alliances. By embodying these principles, fundraisers can enhance their organization’s mission and expand their reach. We also provide valuable resources from Braver Angels to further your understanding and encourage you to foster respectful human interactions for the greater good. Don't miss this episode if you want to transform your approach to fundraising and community building.

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What does it take to muster the courage to sing in front of an audience when fear grips you by the throat? Join us as we share a personal story that transforms a paralyzing fear into a triumphant moment, revealing profound parallels to the world of fundraising. We unpack the emotional journey fundraisers undertake, from the sting of rejection to the high stakes of advocating for causes that matter. This is a tale of resilience, emotional intelligence, and the unwavering focus on the mission that keeps fundraisers moving forward.

Shifting gears, we delve into the true essence of courage—not as the absence of fear but as the decision to act despite it. Fundraising isn't just about asking for money; it's about raising hope, possibilities, and futures. We humorously flirt with the idea of a new career in singing "Closing Time" at bars, all while underscoring the messy, imperfect, yet powerful nature of courage. If you're seeking inspiration to stay bold, tackle your fears, and make a meaningful impact, this conversation is your motivational call to action. Tune in, laugh a little, and come away inspired to support the causes close to your heart.

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What happens when a job interview turns into an ethical quagmire? Join us as we unravel the story of a fellow fundraiser who faced an unsettling request during a job interview: to bring specific donors along to a new organization. This episode digs deep into the ethical complexities and challenges fundraisers face, especially when moving between jobs. We emphasize the critical need for genuine donor relationships, treating donors as partners in philanthropy rather than assets to be moved. Discover why maintaining ethical boundaries and focusing on long-term, sustainable growth is paramount in fundraising.

Professional boundaries are essential for ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of fundraising efforts. By staying true to our mission and fostering authentic connections, we drive meaningful change and enhance our impact. This episode encourages listeners to share their own experiences and stories, reinforcing the collective effort to align fundraising with the values and causes that inspire us. Tune in for compelling insights on nurturing donor relationships and remaining committed to ethical stewardship in the world of fundraising. Let's continue to build lasting connections and make a difference together.

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Unlock the secrets of authentic leadership with Lasha Murray, the visionary founder of The Unapologetic Leadership Coach. Lasha introduces her groundbreaking BANG framework—Belonging, Authenticity, Networking, and Growth—designed to create meaningful professional connections. Together, we tackle the challenges young professionals face in maintaining their authenticity amidst workplace conformity and explore how leaders can foster individuality without compromising their organization's identity. Lasha's insights promise to transform the way you view leadership and community-building in the workplace.

Our conversation with Lasha highlights the critical role leaders play in creating inclusive spaces by setting aside personal biases. Tune in to discover practical strategies for promoting individual growth and team collaboration, including the "stop, start, and continue" feedback framework. With engaging stories, like a child's desire to dye their hair, we explore how unconscious biases shape decision-making. Lasha emphasizes the importance of building authentic connections and offers tips for leaders to immerse themselves in their teams' daily experiences, aligning leadership with the dynamic needs of modern workplaces.

Get ready for a dose of enthusiasm as we introduce the exciting series of live coaching sessions coming this November. Lasha shares how these transformative webinars will cover essential career development topics, from salary negotiation to mastering interviews, ensuring an open and inclusive atmosphere. As we gear up for the rapid-fire coaching sessions, the excitement is palpable—join us to experience firsthand the power of authentic leadership and community building. This episode promises an engaging journey toward fostering a more connected and thriving workplace.

Sign Up for Lasha's Webinar.
Email Lasha Murray at info@theunapologeticleadershipcoach.com

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Unlock the future of nonprofit success with ChatGPT as your intelligent ally. Ever wondered how artificial intelligence can do more than just draft emails? Dive into a world where ChatGPT revolutionizes nonprofit operations, from automating data tasks to crafting strategic plans and designing dynamic dashboards. We'll reveal practical insights on managing data with precision and creating powerful Excel formulas, freeing up your time to focus on what truly matters—driving your mission forward. If you're ready to transform your nonprofit's efficiency, this episode is your guide to harnessing AI's full potential.

Join us as we explore ChatGPT's role in optimizing nonprofit activities, particularly in volunteer and project management. Discover how AI can tailor onboarding materials, streamline scheduling, and generate customized checklists and timelines, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication. As your personal research assistant, ChatGPT simplifies complex reports and uncovers grant opportunities, all while adhering to essential ethical standards. We emphasize the importance of privacy, transparency, and inclusivity, ensuring your nonprofit's integrity remains intact. This comprehensive look at AI’s capabilities will inspire you to embrace technology as a strategic partner in your mission-driven journey.

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Unlock the transformative potential of AI in fundraising, as we explore how technology is reshaping the nonprofit landscape. From the initial skepticism and concerns of job security that accompanied the launch of ChatGPT, to the innovative strides made in aligning AI outputs with organizational values, this episode promises a journey through the evolving perceptions and uses of AI in the nonprofit sector. Discover how AI has transitioned from a misunderstood tool to a creative partner, opening new opportunities for fundraisers while enhancing the essential human elements of donor relationships.

We'll journey behind the scenes of crafting authentic nonprofit messages, shedding light on how AI is being integrated into communication strategies. By examining the parallels between human collaboration and AI assistance, we highlight the ethical considerations and transparency needed when scaling content across platforms. Learn about the concept of "hero content" and how AI plays a vital role in transforming these narratives into diverse formats, maintaining trust and alignment with organizational values.

The conversation also delves into the ethical use of AI chatbots and the importance of maintaining personal connections with donors. As AI becomes a thought partner in the fundraising world, this episode emphasizes the need for ethical integration and transparency in utilizing AI. Whether you're looking to brainstorm, draft, or engage in mass communications, we encourage listeners to share their experiences and foster a community of innovation, ensuring AI is used responsibly to enhance mission-driven relationships.

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Unlock the secret to unlocking donors' hearts and wallets with gratitude! Discover how practicing genuine appreciation can transform your fundraising efforts and create lasting partnerships. Dive into the "rule of seven" and learn how consistent, heartfelt gestures can make your supporters feel truly valued and connected to your cause.

Learn from Heidi Atkinson's insights as we explore strategies like thank-you phone calls and celebratory events that can boost donor loyalty. Uncover the power of personal interactions and find out how board members can directly impact donor retention by reaching out to first-time contributors. From intimate donor luncheons to personalized notes, we'll cover innovative ways to honor and inspire your donors, ensuring they feel cherished and essential to your mission.

Unlock the potential of CRM systems as more than just databases, but as tools to enhance donor relationships and automate gratitude reminders. Discover how to maintain authenticity and personalization, even in an automated world, with customized messages and strategic segmentation. Hear a compelling story of how a simple thank-you call turned a modest gift into a monumental donation, illustrating the unparalleled impact of genuine gratitude. Join us on Let's Talk Fundraising and become a champion of donor appreciation today!

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We’re taking a little holiday break for the rest of the year, but don’t worry—Let’s Talk Fundraising will be back in January with fresh episodes to kick off 2025! In the meantime, make sure to visit www.letstalkfundraising.com to join the newsletter and stay updated on all things fundraising. And let’s connect on LinkedIn—follow Let’s Talk Fundraising for behind-the-scenes insights, tips, and resources to keep you inspired.

In this festive mini-episode, I celebrate you, the ambitious fundraisers working hard to close out year-end campaigns. I know this season can be both a sprint and a marathon, but your work matters—and your heart and hustle are helping to change lives. I also share a few personal holiday traditions, from sledding on snowy Mauna Kea in Hawaii to peaceful Christmas Eve walks among the farolitos in New Mexico.

So, whether you’re wrapping up appeals, sipping hot cocoa, or sneaking in a little rest, know that I’m cheering you on and wishing you a holiday season filled with joy, love, and a well-deserved break. Thank you for being part of this community. I’ll see you in January, ready to take on a brand-new year—together!

Happy Holidays, Ambitious Fundraisers! 🎄✨

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Unlocking the secrets to managing effective nonprofit boards, our episode promises to transform your approach to board recruitment and engagement. With our insightful guest, Phelosha Collaros, we uncover how to transcend the traditional focus on financial capacity and instead recruit board members driven by passion and alignment with your mission. This discussion challenges the norm, advocating for a nuanced, staged pipeline approach to recruiting, where financial commitment is just the starting point for identifying true mission champions.

Prepare to rethink your onboarding strategy with lessons from the seasoned expertise of Phelosha Collaros. Transitioning from basic orientations to a more structured and comprehensive onboarding program, we detail the essential steps your organization needs to cultivate dedicated board members right from the start. By crafting tailored welcome emails, hosting informative orientation sessions, and setting up mentorship opportunities, your nonprofit can ensure a seamless integration that fosters long-term engagement and accountability.

Finally, delve into the intricacies of board engagement and governance with actionable strategies to elevate your board’s effectiveness. From candid conversations and peer counseling to utilizing anonymized surveys for honest feedback, this episode is packed with innovative ideas to keep board members motivated and mission-aligned. Discover how redefining fundraising roles and celebrating successes can transform your board’s fundraising potential without overwhelming them. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice from Phelosha Collaros on cultivating a board that not only supports but champions your organizational goals.

Association of Governing Boards

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Ever wonder why so many fundraisers are burnt out and how to truly support their well-being? Join us as we engage with Raiya Sankari-Diaz, a global HR expert, to uncover the hidden causes of burnout in the fundraising sector. Forget superficial solutions like mindfulness apps; Raiya shares why authentic well-being programs, backed by genuine leadership buy-in, are essential. We explore the pitfalls of "care washing," where insincere initiatives lead only to dissatisfaction and disengagement, and we offer real-life insights and actionable strategies for fundraisers seeking more meaningful change.

Shift gears with us as we explore how smaller nonprofits can cultivate a healthy workplace culture that thrives on connection, creativity, and employee well-being. We dive into the importance of holistic approaches, emphasizing psychological safety, trust, and flexibility. Learn how to effectively engage stakeholders and gather meaningful data to tailor well-being initiatives to your organization’s specific needs. Even if you're not in HR, discover how you can influence positive change through cross-functional collaboration and data-driven approaches. Let’s break the culture of scarcity and work towards a thriving, inclusive workplace environment that stands the test of time.

HBR Article: Why Workplace Well-Being Programs Don't Achieve Better Outcomes

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What if a single word could redefine your entire year? Join us as we challenge the all-or-nothing mindset of New Year's resolutions with a transformative approach to goal-setting. Instead of making fleeting promises, we invite you to select a "word of the year" that can guide your personal and professional journey throughout 2025. Picture your fundraising efforts and personal growth thriving on a foundation of consistency, intention, or engagement. Tune in to discover how small, sustainable actions can lead to meaningful results, from maintaining a steady fitness routine to enhancing donor relationships through regular updates or storytelling.

This episode encourages you to choose a word that truly resonates with you and use it as your compass for impactful change. We explore the essence of progress over perfection, emphasizing the power of consistent steps in building something significant. Share your chosen word with us on social media and become part of a community striving for a purpose-filled year. As we embark on this journey together, gear up for next week's episode where we'll uncover practical fundraising strategies to maintain your momentum. Here's to making 2025 a year of growth, intention, and engagement. Happy New Year and happy fundraising!

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What if holiday generosity could transform lives beyond the festive season? Leanne Baumel, Chief Development Officer at Casa de Esperanza de los Niños, joins us to share her insights from the frontline of holiday fundraising. We'll unravel the complexities and joys of orchestrating campaigns like "Triple the Hope," which has successfully raised over $550,000, and explore the heartfelt process of bringing Christmas cheer to 350 children. Leanne's stories shed light on the power of donor support in changing lives while also navigating the well-meaning chaos that often accompanies it.

The holiday season brings unique challenges for nonprofits, and Leanne doesn’t shy away from discussing them. With vivid anecdotes, she illustrates how Casa de Esperanza aligns donor intentions with organizational needs, ensuring the dignity and personal touch in family celebrations. We also discuss how setting boundaries and maintaining donor engagement throughout the year is crucial for sustained success. The essence of year-round support, the significance of unrestricted giving, and the importance of strong relationships with corporate donors are pivotal themes that surface throughout our discussion.

Cross-team collaboration and empowering leadership are vital for nonprofits, especially during the bustling holiday months. Leanne shares her journey from a hands-on "doer" to a strategic leader who trusts her team to make impactful decisions. We also touch on creative strategies, such as utilizing Amazon wishlists and engaging corporate partners in unique ways, to streamline operations and maximize donations. Leanne's experience offers a blueprint for nonprofit professionals eager to harness the spirit of the season while ensuring long-term support and growth.

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Bri Gerzevske, an expert in nonprofit fundraising leadership, as she shares her transformative approach to creating high-functioning teams. Ever wondered how to step into a new leadership role and immediately start building trust and a positive team culture? Bri’s strategy centers around joy and belonging, and she shares how one-on-one meetings can help set expectations and understand team dynamics, all while maintaining healthy work-life boundaries. She also tackles the thorny issue of micromanagement and the importance of fostering a trust-based work environment.

The episode takes a deep dive into the challenging waters of hiring without bias. We explore the critical need for self-awareness and environmental analysis before recruitment, using approaches like SWOT analyses to ensure a well-rounded and diverse team. Bri shares her firsthand experiences balancing the emotional demands of fundraising in social services, particularly at St. Patrick's Center, where the administrative duties often intersect with the harsh realities faced by program staff. Through thoughtful strategies, she demonstrates how managing expectations is crucial for effective fundraising, while also highlighting the emotional resilience required in this field.

Finally, we delve into empowering teams through sustainable growth and support. Discover how to create a safe environment that encourages personal and professional development for each team member. Bri emphasizes the importance of recognizing what drives individuals and being a strong advocate for their aspirations, even when it means preparing them for opportunities beyond the current organization. We wrap up with practical advice on celebrating wins, integrating new team members, and maintaining a cohesive, motivated team dynamic that not only meets but exceeds fundraising goals.

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Have you ever felt like fundraising was just begging for money? Like you were throwing out asks and hoping someone would say yes? If so, you’re not alone—but there’s a reason it feels that way. And it’s not just you.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Fundraising, I break down the difference between real fundraising and what I call panhandling. It all started with a phone call that should’ve been about speaking at a conference—but instead turned into a hard sales pitch for sponsorship. And when the other fundraiser shrugged and said, “Well, we have to ask everybody”, it hit me like a brick.

No. We don’t.

Fundraising isn’t about throwing out asks to anyone with a checkbook. It’s about building real relationships, aligning passions with purpose, and guiding donors on a hero’s journey—where they see themselves as part of the change.

In this episode, we dive into:
🎙️ The huge mistake that makes donors run the other way
🎙️ Why real fundraisers never feel like salespeople
🎙️ The key to making donors excited to give (without pressure)
🎙️ How to stop “panhandling” and start inspiring generosity

If you’re tired of making asks that feel transactional, if you want to build real donor relationships that last, this episode is for you.

🚀 Let’s raise money the right way.

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Can AI really enhance human connection in fundraising, or is it just a high-tech distraction? Let's tackle this question head-on, revealing how AI can be a transformative force in the nonprofit sector. This episode isn't about replacing the personal touch — it's about using AI to deepen it. As I prepare for my upcoming session at the AFP Icon conference in Seattle, I'll guide you through the ethical integration of AI, showing how it can streamline repetitive tasks and allow us to focus on what truly matters: building genuine relationships and crafting compelling stories that resonate with donors. 

This isn't just tech-talk; it's a hands-on challenge to experiment with AI. Whether you're drafting emails or summarizing reports, I encourage you to explore its potential in your fundraising efforts. And remember, it's not about being perfect — it's about understanding and leveraging AI as a strategic assistant. Together, we'll discuss how AI aligns with organizational values and enhances our capacity to make meaningful impacts. With curiosity and strategic intent, let's embrace AI and transform the way we connect with our communities, making our work smarter and more human than ever before.

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Fundraising shouldn’t feel like manipulation. It shouldn’t leave donors feeling drained, guilty, or pressured into giving. Yet, so much of our industry—especially certain political campaigns—leans into fear as a motivator. And while fear might work once, it doesn’t build relationships. It doesn’t make donors want to come back.

You know what does? Joy.

In this episode, I’m sharing two unforgettable stories from my time in hospice fundraising—one about a 102-year-old who became the town’s most eligible bachelor, and another about a baby boy who taught his family the power of love in the smallest of moments. These stories prove that when we lead with joy, we don’t just raise money—we create connection, community, and generosity that lasts.

If you’re tired of fear-based fundraising… if you want donors who love giving… if you’re ready to build a mission that feels good—this episode is for you.

Let’s talk about why joy wins.

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Love the show? Support Let's Talk Fundraising and help us continue bringing you top strategies and insider tips. Join our Let's Talk Fundraising Insider today!