<![CDATA["Funding the Future NOW" Podcast]]>Funding the Future is where fundraising meets real-world expertise. Hosted by Dr. Randy Dirks, a fundraising practitioner with 25 years of experience and StoryBrand certification, this podcast brings you practical, tactical insights you can use immediately to increase your effectiveness.

Each episode features in-depth conversations with experts from diverse fields—from storytelling and data analytics to leadership and donor psychology. Randy bridges the gap between their specialized knowledge and your fundraising challenges, translating cutting-edge strategies into actionable approaches for donor relations, major gifts, annual campaigns, and nonprofit leadership.

Whether you're cultivating relationships with major donors, crafting compelling campaign narratives, or leading a fundraising team, you'll walk away from every episode with concrete tools and fresh perspectives drawn from proven practitioners. This isn't theory—it's battle-tested wisdom applied directly to the work you do every day.

Funding the Future is your resource for becoming a more effective, confident, and strategic fundraising professional.

]]>https://RandyDirks.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Mon, 02 Nov 2026 16:45:06 GMTSat, 24 Jan 2026 19:04:32 GMT60Dr. Randy Dirks<p><b>Funding the Future</b> is where fundraising meets real-world expertise. Hosted by Dr. Randy Dirks, a fundraising practitioner with 25 years of experience and StoryBrand certification, this podcast brings you practical, tactical insights you can use immediately to increase your effectiveness.</p><p></p><p>Each episode features in-depth conversations with experts from diverse fields—from storytelling and data analytics to leadership and donor psychology. Randy bridges the gap between their specialized knowledge and your fundraising challenges, translating cutting-edge strategies into actionable approaches for donor relations, major gifts, annual campaigns, and nonprofit leadership.</p><p></p><p>Whether you're cultivating relationships with major donors, crafting compelling campaign narratives, or leading a fundraising team, you'll walk away from every episode with concrete tools and fresh perspectives drawn from proven practitioners. This isn't theory—it's battle-tested wisdom applied directly to the work you do every day.</p><p></p><p><b>Funding the Future</b> is your resource for becoming a more effective, confident, and strategic fundraising professional.</p>episodicDr. Randy Dirksrdirks52@gmail.comno<![CDATA[Clara Reynolds - Nobody Calls You on Their Best Day]]>Clara Reynolds compares crisis funding to insurance: nobody wants it until they need it. She fights staff burnout with safety plans, EAP support, and a lighter culture. Funding swings force pivots and hard calls on off-mission money. Her biggest leadership shift: dropping the need to have every answer, which built more trust and better team problem-solving.

 

]]>aa6d59da-182c-4948-9d1e-316265c8bac4Thu, 03 Sep 2026 14:21:24 GMT<p>Clara Reynolds compares crisis funding to insurance: nobody wants it until they need it. She fights staff burnout with safety plans, EAP support, and a lighter culture. Funding swings force pivots and hard calls on off-mission money. Her biggest leadership shift: dropping the need to have every answer, which built more trust and better team problem-solving.</p><p> </p>no00:30:45Clara Reynolds - Nobody Calls You on Their Best Dayfull<![CDATA[Jessie Dowsakul - How the Columbia Jewish Federation Turns Community Trust Into Consistent Giving]]>The interview centers on collective responsibility as Jessie's core donor pitch: "if not us, who?" reframes giving away from single-program preference toward trust in the Federation to steward the whole community.

A second theme is proactive infrastructure over crisis fundraising, most visible in the SCN security partnership, built before threats materialize rather than scrambled together after.

The conversation also threads personal resilience, grit from juggling grad school and work, rejection as a formative rather than defeating experience, into her leadership style.

Finally, there's a strong thread on context sensitivity: her assumption that skills would transfer cleanly from New Orleans to Columbia didn't hold, reinforcing that donor culture and regional dynamics have to be relearned locally rather than assumed.

]]>6e7cc2b3-21c8-4d14-95ef-1e14ba7e886fThu, 20 Aug 2026 15:53:09 GMT<p>The interview centers on collective responsibility as Jessie's core donor pitch: "if not us, who?" reframes giving away from single-program preference toward trust in the Federation to steward the whole community. </p><p></p><p>A second theme is proactive infrastructure over crisis fundraising, most visible in the SCN security partnership, built before threats materialize rather than scrambled together after. </p><p></p><p>The conversation also threads personal resilience, grit from juggling grad school and work, rejection as a formative rather than defeating experience, into her leadership style. </p><p></p><p>Finally, there's a strong thread on context sensitivity: her assumption that skills would transfer cleanly from New Orleans to Columbia didn't hold, reinforcing that donor culture and regional dynamics have to be relearned locally rather than assumed.</p>no00:20:47Jessie Dowsakul - How the Columbia Jewish Federation Turns Community Trust Into Consistent Givingfull<![CDATA[Rich Armenia - The World Doesn't Have a Food Shortage. It Has a Logistics Problem]]>A conversation with Rich Armenia, Executive Director of Feeding Charlotte.

Nearly 40% of the U.S. food supply ends up in a landfill. In Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, roughly 120,000 people are food insecure. Rich Armenia calls that "the dumbest problem we could possibly have," and he built an organization around fixing it.

I sat down with Rich on the Funding the Future Now podcast to talk about food rescue, volunteer retention, and why he refuses to tell donors he is ending hunger.

]]>02b97a7f-68ec-4e9e-9c8f-2a9217711edeThu, 13 Aug 2026 18:16:53 GMT<p><i>A conversation with Rich Armenia, Executive Director of Feeding Charlotte.</i></p><p>Nearly 40% of the U.S. food supply ends up in a landfill. In Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, roughly 120,000 people are food insecure. Rich Armenia calls that "the dumbest problem we could possibly have," and he built an organization around fixing it.</p><p>I sat down with Rich on the Funding the Future Now podcast to talk about food rescue, volunteer retention, and why he refuses to tell donors he is ending hunger.</p>no00:31:06Rich Armenia - The World Doesn't Have a Food Shortage. It Has a Logistics Problemfull<![CDATA[Christine Mangino - Turning Radical Transparency Into Donor Trust]]>In this episode of Funding the Future Now, Dr. Randy Dirks talks with Christine Mangino, president of Queensborough Community College (CUNY), about earning donor trust through radical transparency. Rather than hiding hard numbers, she shows her foundation board the full budget down to the penny — because when leaders share only good news, people stop believing them. She builds trust by letting donors see the work firsthand, whether at a campus celebration or graduation, where one donor told her, "I know I am giving my money to the right place." The same authenticity drives her internal culture and her crisis leadership, which she sums up as optimism paired with a plan. Her message is simple: people trust what they can see, so show them everything — the good, the bad, and the ugly.

]]>1ab6582d-94db-4f66-80b0-c7e364c50e7fMon, 27 Jul 2026 17:01:18 GMT<p>In this episode of <i>Funding the Future Now</i>, Dr. Randy Dirks talks with Christine Mangino, president of Queensborough Community College (CUNY), about earning donor trust through radical transparency. Rather than hiding hard numbers, she shows her foundation board the full budget down to the penny — because when leaders share only good news, people stop believing them. She builds trust by letting donors <i>see</i> the work firsthand, whether at a campus celebration or graduation, where one donor told her, "I know I am giving my money to the right place." The same authenticity drives her internal culture and her crisis leadership, which she sums up as optimism paired with a plan. Her message is simple: people trust what they can see, so show them everything — the good, the bad, and the ugly.</p>no00:23:49Christine Mangino - Turning Radical Transparency Into Donor Trustfull<![CDATA[Bob Dees - Your Donors Are Smarter Than Your Timeline]]>In this episode of Funding the Future Now, Randy Dirks talks with Bob Dees, president of the National Center for Healthy Veterans, about how to fund and lead work that takes years to show results. Bob argues that sophisticated donors don't actually expect quick wins, and that the leader's job is to measure outcomes while also painting the complexity of the challenge, illustrated by a veteran who would have been counted a loss at three months and a clear win years later. Drawing on thirty-one years in the Army, Bob names the sector's most common failure as vision without operational strategy: nonprofits cast the vision but skip the phasing, role definition, and lines of authority needed to actually get there. He closes on language, arguing that organizations should look through the windshield rather than the rearview mirror, using a prophetic name, tagline, and vocabulary that names where people are headed instead of what happened to them.

]]>b4f6abc3-17e2-4ab2-9e0c-5fa9314e912dThu, 23 Jul 2026 22:27:42 GMT<p>In this episode of Funding the Future Now, Randy Dirks talks with Bob Dees, president of the National Center for Healthy Veterans, about how to fund and lead work that takes years to show results. Bob argues that sophisticated donors don't actually expect quick wins, and that the leader's job is to measure outcomes while also painting the complexity of the challenge, illustrated by a veteran who would have been counted a loss at three months and a clear win years later. Drawing on thirty-one years in the Army, Bob names the sector's most common failure as vision without operational strategy: nonprofits cast the vision but skip the phasing, role definition, and lines of authority needed to actually get there. He closes on language, arguing that organizations should look through the windshield rather than the rearview mirror, using a prophetic name, tagline, and vocabulary that names where people are headed instead of what happened to them.</p>no00:33:31Bob Dees - Your Donors Are Smarter Than Your Timelinefull<![CDATA[Dr. John Fuchko - The Power Is in the Question]]>Dr. John Fuchko closed a nearly 10% budget gap at Dalton State College by opening the books to his campus instead of handing down cuts from the corner office. He also posted the highest giving year in school history, more than $7 million, without a campaign to rally anyone around. His explanation traces back to a line from a mentor named Bill Goodwin: the power is in the question. We also get into what five command tours taught him about planning, what he had to unlearn when he left the military, and the three filters he uses to decide what earns his time. If your senior leaders are still asking you for permission, John has a blunt diagnosis for you.

]]>a256684c-663d-471b-be98-48a9a64b440cThu, 23 Jul 2026 17:28:45 GMT<p>Dr. John Fuchko closed a nearly 10% budget gap at Dalton State College by opening the books to his campus instead of handing down cuts from the corner office. He also posted the highest giving year in school history, more than $7 million, without a campaign to rally anyone around. His explanation traces back to a line from a mentor named Bill Goodwin: the power is in the question. We also get into what five command tours taught him about planning, what he had to unlearn when he left the military, and the three filters he uses to decide what earns his time. If your senior leaders are still asking you for permission, John has a blunt diagnosis for you.</p>no00:31:34Dr. John Fuchko - The Power Is in the Questionfull<![CDATA[Marcus Menesse - The Fastest Way to Lose a Donor Is Also the Easiest to Fix]]>Marcus Meneese has been running a nonprofit for fourteen years, and when asked what quietly destroys donor trust, he did not hesitate for a second. Marcus Meneese Sr. founded Stronger Than My Father fourteen years ago in Nashville to serve young men growing up without fathers. Leadership skills. Career exposure. Drone flying, cooking, auto mechanics, podcasting. Real things boys can see and touch, because touching a career can trigger a mind toward a future it had not imagined yet.

I sat down with Marcus on the Funding the Future Now podcast. Three things he said are worth every executive director's attention.

]]>e7b3394e-c00d-4a50-9b7e-a1268095359cTue, 21 Jul 2026 20:18:09 GMT<p>Marcus Meneese has been running a nonprofit for fourteen years, and when asked what quietly destroys donor trust, he did not hesitate for a second. Marcus Meneese Sr. founded Stronger Than My Father fourteen years ago in Nashville to serve young men growing up without fathers. Leadership skills. Career exposure. Drone flying, cooking, auto mechanics, podcasting. Real things boys can see and touch, because touching a career can trigger a mind toward a future it had not imagined yet.</p><p>I sat down with Marcus on the Funding the Future Now podcast. Three things he said are worth every executive director's attention.</p>no00:23:37Marcus Menesse - The Fastest Way to Lose a Donor Is Also the Easiest to Fixfull<![CDATA[Wesley Laws - Don't be the Hero, be the Helper]]>In this episode of Funding the Future Now, Dr. Randy Dirks talks with head of school Wesley Laws about building healthy teams through relational equity — the mutual trust leaders earn by being present, knowing their people, and owning their mistakes rather than posturing as the hero who has it all figured out ("your team is not looking for you to be a hero, they are looking for you to be a helper"). The heart of the conversation is conflict: most leaders treat it like a fire to stamp out and avoid it until it spreads, when the real skill is pinching out the match early — speaking up at the first murmur or slight before it hits the gasoline and becomes a wildfire that takes out the whole "neighborhood" of concentric relationships. Laws's signature move is the Monday-morning reset: do the reflective legwork first, then walk in and own what's gone wrong before you're shown it, because a leader who names their own shortcomings rebuilds trust faster than one who waits to be confronted. When teams finally get healthy, he says, everyone — administration, teacher, and family — gets in the room, names the real issues, and pushes toward a shared goal, turning struggling students into thriving ones; gossip is the enemy that quietly undoes that work. The takeaway Randy lands on: get people in different places, with different opinions, onto the same page by bringing issues into the open, understanding them, and owning them.

]]>a278d72e-5029-4320-bacc-d6729b92fb06Fri, 26 Jun 2026 20:46:13 GMT<p>In this episode of <i>Funding the Future Now</i>, Dr. Randy Dirks talks with head of school Wesley Laws about building healthy teams through relational equity — the mutual trust leaders earn by being present, knowing their people, and owning their mistakes rather than posturing as the hero who has it all figured out ("your team is not looking for you to be a hero, they are looking for you to be a helper"). The heart of the conversation is conflict: most leaders treat it like a fire to stamp out and avoid it until it spreads, when the real skill is pinching out the match early — speaking up at the first murmur or slight before it hits the gasoline and becomes a wildfire that takes out the whole "neighborhood" of concentric relationships. Laws's signature move is the Monday-morning reset: do the reflective legwork first, then walk in and <i>own</i> what's gone wrong before you're shown it, because a leader who names their own shortcomings rebuilds trust faster than one who waits to be confronted. When teams finally get healthy, he says, everyone — administration, teacher, and family — gets in the room, names the real issues, and pushes toward a shared goal, turning struggling students into thriving ones; gossip is the enemy that quietly undoes that work. The takeaway Randy lands on: get people in different places, with different opinions, onto the same page by bringing issues into the open, understanding them, and owning them.</p>no00:25:58Wesley Laws - Don't be the Hero, be the Helperfull<![CDATA[Be the Advisor - Not the Hero]]>In the nonprofit world, we so often cast ourselves as the hero — look how many homes we built, how many meals we served, how many wells we dug. But your real job is to be a confident philanthropic advisor. The donor is the hero. You're the guide. And to guide well, you have to understand the other person — their values, what matters to them, what they're longing to achieve — not who your organization is. So be that advisor. Build a bridge between the donor's values, goals, and dreams and what your organization can actually deliver.

]]>b24eeb11-34a3-4625-bd64-2d8b0d828195Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:01:34 GMT<p>In the nonprofit world, we so often cast ourselves as the hero — <i>look how many homes we built, how many meals we served, how many wells we dug.</i> But your real job is to be a confident philanthropic advisor. The donor is the hero. You're the guide. And to guide well, you have to understand the other person — their values, what matters to them, what they're longing to achieve — not who your organization is. So be that advisor. Build a bridge between the donor's values, goals, and dreams and what your organization can actually deliver.</p><p></p>no00:01:08Be the Advisor - Not the Herofull<![CDATA[Randy Dirks - Building Trust in Nonprofits ]]>So the whole issue is building collateral over a long period of time. And that's what leads to trust. And trust is indispensable in the success of a nonprofit because as donors trust you, they say, I'm trusting you with my most valuable resources, the money, the assets that I have earned. And I want to give it to you and to your organization because I trust you.

]]>4233bb60-9253-4bf6-9163-3eb465d5df8bSun, 21 Jun 2026 19:08:50 GMT<p>So the whole issue is building collateral over a long period of time. And that's what leads to trust. And trust is indispensable in the success of a nonprofit because as donors trust you, they say, I'm trusting you with my most valuable resources, the money, the assets that I have earned. And I want to give it to you and to your organization because I trust you.</p>no00:00:58Randy Dirks - Building Trust in Nonprofits full<![CDATA[Randy Dirks - 3 Indispensable Skills]]>To be an effective development professional, all you need are three skills. And it is not about being a good talker or promoter. Mark and Shiela's first gift of $10,000 has now grown to annual gifts totaling $400,000! It occurred due to using these three skills. They are: deep listening, being a philanthropic advisor and engaging in the long game.

]]>41aee9d1-0cc0-4941-b7a2-4c8e77581024Fri, 12 Jun 2026 22:41:42 GMT<p>To be an effective development professional, all you need are three skills. And it is not about being a good talker or promoter. Mark and Shiela's first gift of $10,000 has now grown to annual gifts totaling $400,000! It occurred due to using these three skills. They are: deep listening, being a philanthropic advisor and engaging in the long game. </p>no00:09:55Randy Dirks - 3 Indispensable Skillsfull<![CDATA[Ja'Lah Willingham - Make It Impossible to Ignore ]]>Ask most donors what they want to fund, and "isolated older adults with no family" rarely makes the list. Ja'Lah Willingham, Executive Director of Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly in Cincinnati, Ohio, response to the question: "How do we make this not invisible?"

The organization is volunteer-based, built around a single mission: relieving the loneliness and isolation of older adults — with a specific focus on those who have little to no family support.

What follows is a conversation about making an invisible problem visible, turning first-time volunteers into lifelong advocates, and measuring the things that resist measurement.

]]>72bde6c5-1207-4771-9cba-7b2b3c49db99Fri, 05 Jun 2026 22:16:05 GMT<p>Ask most donors what they want to fund, and "isolated older adults with no family" rarely makes the list. Ja'Lah Willingham, Executive Director of Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly in Cincinnati, Ohio, response to the question: "How do we make this <i>not</i> invisible?"</p><p></p><p>The organization is volunteer-based, built around a single mission: relieving the loneliness and isolation of older adults — with a specific focus on those who have little to no family support. </p><p></p><p>What follows is a conversation about making an invisible problem visible, turning first-time volunteers into lifelong advocates, and measuring the things that resist measurement.</p>no00:26:03Ja'Lah Willingham - Make It Impossible to Ignore full<![CDATA[Renee Flagler and Stephen Powell - Open the Heart, and the Wallet Follows]]>The podcast episode features Dr. Randy Dirks interviewing Renee Daniel Flagler and Stephen Powell from the National CARES Mentoring Movement. The conversation covers topics such as the organization's background, programs, impact, healing-centered work, engaging volunteers, corporate partnerships, fundraising, recruiting and engagement strategies, strategic leadership, storytelling, and personal and professional insights.

Takeaways

  • Recruiting and engaging volunteers
  • Strategic leadership and storytelling in the nonprofit world

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background
  • 05:23 Engaging Volunteers
  • 10:34 Recruiting and Engagement Strategies
  • 24:47 Strategic Leadership and Storytelling
]]>cf4392d0-4e63-40ea-9b04-d72cbed055a2Fri, 29 May 2026 15:24:52 GMT<p>The podcast episode features Dr. Randy Dirks interviewing Renee Daniel Flagler and Stephen Powell from the National CARES Mentoring Movement. The conversation covers topics such as the organization's background, programs, impact, healing-centered work, engaging volunteers, corporate partnerships, fundraising, recruiting and engagement strategies, strategic leadership, storytelling, and personal and professional insights.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Recruiting and engaging volunteers</li><li>Strategic leadership and storytelling in the nonprofit world</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Background</li><li>05:23 Engaging Volunteers</li><li>10:34 Recruiting and Engagement Strategies</li><li>24:47 Strategic Leadership and Storytelling</li></ul>no00:35:45Renee Flagler and Stephen Powell - Open the Heart, and the Wallet Followsfull<![CDATA[Paul Fisher - The Mission Has to Matter More Than the Organization's Survival ]]>The conversation delves into the challenges of maintaining mission commitment, communicating the value of aspirational investments, and leading people who believe in the mission more than the paycheck. It also explores the role of the headmaster in fundraising and provides insights and reflections on leadership and development in the nonprofit sector.

Takeaways

  • Mission Drift vs. Mission Commitment
  • Building Relationships in Fundraising
  • Leadership and Mission Alignment

Chapters

  • 00:00 Fast Five: Insights and Reflections
]]>f7afc311-64f2-4d48-a1b1-4dcbf7bdd80bFri, 22 May 2026 15:30:31 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the challenges of maintaining mission commitment, communicating the value of aspirational investments, and leading people who believe in the mission more than the paycheck. It also explores the role of the headmaster in fundraising and provides insights and reflections on leadership and development in the nonprofit sector.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Mission Drift vs. Mission Commitment</li><li>Building Relationships in Fundraising</li><li>Leadership and Mission Alignment</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Fast Five: Insights and Reflections</li></ul>no00:29:23Paul Fisher - The Mission Has to Matter More Than the Organization's Survival full<![CDATA[Matt Lucas - Free Isn't the Problem. Telling the Story Is ]]>The conversation covers the unique challenges of funding a nonprofit with a non-monetized content model, the transition of Our Daily Bread Ministry, the differences between fundraising in higher education and ministry, and the complexities of measuring spiritual transformation and return on investment. It also delves into personal insights and reflections on leadership and development.

Takeaways

  • Non-monetized content funding challenges
  • Multi-channel communication for engagement

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Nonprofit Funding Model
  • 08:18 Donor Case for Funding Non-Monetized Content
  • 13:25 Digital Engagement and Multi-Channel Communication
  • 22:05 Measuring Spiritual Transformation and Return on Investment
  • 28:26 Personal Insights and Reflections
]]>9bf1afe0-467d-4b07-8f6b-8e500c3faf81Thu, 21 May 2026 18:05:43 GMT<p>The conversation covers the unique challenges of funding a nonprofit with a non-monetized content model, the transition of Our Daily Bread Ministry, the differences between fundraising in higher education and ministry, and the complexities of measuring spiritual transformation and return on investment. It also delves into personal insights and reflections on leadership and development.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Non-monetized content funding challenges</li><li>Multi-channel communication for engagement</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Nonprofit Funding Model</li><li>08:18 Donor Case for Funding Non-Monetized Content</li><li>13:25 Digital Engagement and Multi-Channel Communication</li><li>22:05 Measuring Spiritual Transformation and Return on Investment</li><li>28:26 Personal Insights and Reflections</li></ul>no00:32:59Matt Lucas - Free Isn't the Problem. Telling the Story Is full<![CDATA[David LeVan - What Merging Two Organizations Taught This CEO About Donor Trust]]>The conversation covers the topics of building and sustaining donor confidence, merging nonprofit organizations, and leadership development and advice. The first chapter explores the challenges of building and sustaining donor confidence in nonprofit work, especially in remote and under-resourced areas. The second chapter delves into the process of merging nonprofit organizations and the underestimated aspects of bringing two cultures together. The final chapter discusses leadership development, advice, and the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders in the nonprofit sector.

Takeaways

  • Donor Confidence
  • Merging Organizations

Chapters

  • 00:00 Building and Sustaining Donor Confidence
  • 09:27 Merging Nonprofit Organizations
  • 20:00 Leadership Development and Advice
]]>20042978-615e-4295-93f3-732e679606aeMon, 18 May 2026 20:31:52 GMT<p>The conversation covers the topics of building and sustaining donor confidence, merging nonprofit organizations, and leadership development and advice. The first chapter explores the challenges of building and sustaining donor confidence in nonprofit work, especially in remote and under-resourced areas. The second chapter delves into the process of merging nonprofit organizations and the underestimated aspects of bringing two cultures together. The final chapter discusses leadership development, advice, and the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders in the nonprofit sector.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Donor Confidence</li><li>Merging Organizations</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Building and Sustaining Donor Confidence</li><li>09:27 Merging Nonprofit Organizations</li><li>20:00 Leadership Development and Advice</li></ul>no00:28:39David LeVan - What Merging Two Organizations Taught This CEO About Donor Trustfull<![CDATA[Dr. Joel Satterly - How He Keeps Donors Loyal to Two Organizations]]>The conversation covers the importance of prioritizing resources in nonprofit organizations and the significance of building trust and relationships with stakeholders. It delves into the decision-making process for resource allocation and the impact of these decisions on the organization's mission and goals. Additionally, it explores the role of nonprofit leaders in fostering trust and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of the organization.

Takeaways

  • Prioritizing resources in a nonprofit organization is crucial
  • Building trust and relationships with stakeholders is essential for nonprofit leaders

Chapters

  • 00:00 Prioritizing Resources in Nonprofit Organizations
  • 18:00 Building Trust and Relationships with Stakeholders
]]>255dd273-c70d-4491-896c-f228d4b0403bThu, 14 May 2026 16:51:58 GMT<p>The conversation covers the importance of prioritizing resources in nonprofit organizations and the significance of building trust and relationships with stakeholders. It delves into the decision-making process for resource allocation and the impact of these decisions on the organization's mission and goals. Additionally, it explores the role of nonprofit leaders in fostering trust and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of the organization.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Prioritizing resources in a nonprofit organization is crucial</li><li>Building trust and relationships with stakeholders is essential for nonprofit leaders</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Prioritizing Resources in Nonprofit Organizations</li><li>18:00 Building Trust and Relationships with Stakeholders</li></ul>no00:27:11Dr. Joel Satterly - How He Keeps Donors Loyal to Two Organizationsfull<![CDATA[Drayton Cosby - Keep top donors with you across multi-year build cycles.]]>Drayton Cosby, founder and CEO of Foundation for Intelligent Media and Design, discusses the impact of Bible-based video games on discipleship and engagement. He shares insights on donor engagement, stewardship, and the unique challenges of measuring impact in the interactive media space.

Takeaways

  • Bible-based video games as a tool for discipleship
  • Challenges of donor engagement in the interactive media space

Chapters

  • 00:00 Mission of IMD and How to Connect with Drayton Cosby
]]>9b37f6a0-11fa-45f3-ac47-aedd3af15909Mon, 11 May 2026 20:07:18 GMT<p>Drayton Cosby, founder and CEO of Foundation for Intelligent Media and Design, discusses the impact of Bible-based video games on discipleship and engagement. He shares insights on donor engagement, stewardship, and the unique challenges of measuring impact in the interactive media space.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Bible-based video games as a tool for discipleship</li><li>Challenges of donor engagement in the interactive media space</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Mission of IMD and How to Connect with Drayton Cosby</li></ul>no00:28:24Drayton Cosby - Keep top donors with you across multi-year build cycles.full<![CDATA[Darryl Anderson - Stop Making It Transactional]]>The conversation covers topics related to nonprofit leadership, fundraising, community engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Darrell Anderson, the executive president of Ares Senior Network, shares insights on building cross-functional teams, strategic planning, and the importance of community in personal and professional growth. The conversation also delves into the significance of donor relationships, long-term community investments, and the operationalization of DEI within organizations.

Takeaways

  • Nonprofit leaders can shift board culture by building individual rapport with board members, understanding their strengths, and fostering strong relationships.
  • Fundraising strategies should focus on building strong donor relationships, demonstrating impact, and showing gratitude to donors.
  • Operationalizing DEI involves centering diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizational systems, hiring processes, and leadership teams, and reflecting the community being served.
  • Community plays a vital role in personal and professional growth, providing support, encouragement, and opportunities for learning and development.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Fast Five: Insights and Reflections
]]>1073be1a-6ba8-4f2f-8293-1acba50f3f09Tue, 05 May 2026 01:13:05 GMT<p>The conversation covers topics related to nonprofit leadership, fundraising, community engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Darrell Anderson, the executive president of Ares Senior Network, shares insights on building cross-functional teams, strategic planning, and the importance of community in personal and professional growth. The conversation also delves into the significance of donor relationships, long-term community investments, and the operationalization of DEI within organizations.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Nonprofit leaders can shift board culture by building individual rapport with board members, understanding their strengths, and fostering strong relationships.</li><li>Fundraising strategies should focus on building strong donor relationships, demonstrating impact, and showing gratitude to donors.</li><li>Operationalizing DEI involves centering diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizational systems, hiring processes, and leadership teams, and reflecting the community being served.</li><li>Community plays a vital role in personal and professional growth, providing support, encouragement, and opportunities for learning and development.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Fast Five: Insights and Reflections</li></ul>no00:27:36Darryl Anderson - Stop Making It Transactionalfull<![CDATA[Dion Green - How He Turned Personal Devastation into a National Nonprofit Movement]]>The podcast episode features Dion Green, CEO of the Fudge Foundation, who shares his personal story of tragedy and resilience. The conversation delves into the impact of personal stories on fundraising, the importance of strategic partnerships and community trust, and the challenges of building credibility in communities. Dion's insights provide valuable lessons in leadership, personal growth, and community engagement.

Takeaways

  • Leadership through personal tragedy
  • Building credibility in communities
  • The impact of personal stories on fundraising
  • Strategic partnerships and community trust
  • Lessons from failure and personal growth

Chapters

  • 00:00 Building Credibility in Communities
]]>2f23bcdb-687f-4dd2-be0e-db42517d5d1eMon, 04 May 2026 16:25:46 GMT<p>The podcast episode features Dion Green, CEO of the Fudge Foundation, who shares his personal story of tragedy and resilience. The conversation delves into the impact of personal stories on fundraising, the importance of strategic partnerships and community trust, and the challenges of building credibility in communities. Dion's insights provide valuable lessons in leadership, personal growth, and community engagement.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Leadership through personal tragedy</li><li>Building credibility in communities</li><li>The impact of personal stories on fundraising</li><li>Strategic partnerships and community trust</li><li>Lessons from failure and personal growth</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Building Credibility in Communities</li></ul>no00:24:36Dion Green - How He Turned Personal Devastation into a National Nonprofit Movementfull<![CDATA[Kim Nagle - She Walked Through the Door of a Nonprofit When She Left Her Pride in the Parking Lot]]>The conversation covers the DAMN Plan as a business approach, the need for a mindset shift in the nonprofit sector, the internal barrier to fundraising momentum, and the process of building authentic donor relationships in underrepresented communities. The conversation with Kim Nagle delves into the importance of constant planning and the role of cash flow in avoiding crisis. Kim shares personal advice and reflections, and discusses her resources for connecting with nonprofits.

Takeaways

  • Belief is a key internal barrier to fundraising momentum
  • Nonprofit organizations need to shift their mindset towards profitability
  • Building authentic donor relationships in underrepresented communities requires trust and integrity Constant planning is key
  • Cash flow is crucial for avoiding crisis

Chapters

  • 00:00 The DAMN Plan: A Business Approach
  • 09:10 The Internal Barrier to Fundraising Momentum
  • 15:51 Building Authentic Donor Relationships
  • 23:00 The Importance of Constant Planning
  • 29:04 Personal Advice and Reflections
  • 37:52 Connecting with Kim Nagle
]]>4beaf9cf-ca0d-4752-97ce-16909e57d44aFri, 01 May 2026 18:28:13 GMT<p>The conversation covers the DAMN Plan as a business approach, the need for a mindset shift in the nonprofit sector, the internal barrier to fundraising momentum, and the process of building authentic donor relationships in underrepresented communities. The conversation with Kim Nagle delves into the importance of constant planning and the role of cash flow in avoiding crisis. Kim shares personal advice and reflections, and discusses her resources for connecting with nonprofits.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Belief is a key internal barrier to fundraising momentum</li><li>Nonprofit organizations need to shift their mindset towards profitability</li><li>Building authentic donor relationships in underrepresented communities requires trust and integrity Constant planning is key</li><li>Cash flow is crucial for avoiding crisis</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The DAMN Plan: A Business Approach</li><li>09:10 The Internal Barrier to Fundraising Momentum</li><li>15:51 Building Authentic Donor Relationships</li><li>23:00 The Importance of Constant Planning</li><li>29:04 Personal Advice and Reflections</li><li>37:52 Connecting with Kim Nagle</li></ul>no00:36:37Kim Nagle - She Walked Through the Door of a Nonprofit When She Left Her Pride in the Parking Lotfull<![CDATA[Andy Jones - Why 75% of First-Time Donors Never Give Again]]>The conversation delves into the critical issue of communication failure in the nonprofit sector, particularly the impact it has on donor retention. It emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the need for healthy communication patterns to retain donors. Additionally, it explores the challenges of retaining donors after their first gift, the significance of clear mission statements, and the application of entertainment industry principles to nonprofit communication. The discussion also includes insights, reflections, and the role of Roundtree Agency in supporting nonprofit growth and communication.

Takeaways

  • Storytelling is key
  • Communication failure leads to donor loss

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Communication Failure
  • 12:31 The Mission Clarity Problem
  • 20:13 The Hollywood Principle
  • 25:28 Insights and Reflections
  • 32:19 Roundtree Agency and Nonprofit Communication
]]>937f2c46-81fe-49bd-866c-8a20ad16b08bFri, 01 May 2026 16:39:46 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the critical issue of communication failure in the nonprofit sector, particularly the impact it has on donor retention. It emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the need for healthy communication patterns to retain donors. Additionally, it explores the challenges of retaining donors after their first gift, the significance of clear mission statements, and the application of entertainment industry principles to nonprofit communication. The discussion also includes insights, reflections, and the role of Roundtree Agency in supporting nonprofit growth and communication.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Storytelling is key</li><li>Communication failure leads to donor loss</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Communication Failure</li><li>12:31 The Mission Clarity Problem</li><li>20:13 The Hollywood Principle</li><li>25:28 Insights and Reflections</li><li>32:19 Roundtree Agency and Nonprofit Communication</li></ul>no00:31:22Andy Jones - Why 75% of First-Time Donors Never Give Againfull<![CDATA[Monica Piper - Helping a Donor Feel the Mission — Not Just Understand It.]]>Monica Piper, the executive director of Warrior Freedom Service Dogs, shares her experiences and insights on leading a nonprofit organization that pairs service dogs with veterans. She discusses the challenges, successes, and leadership lessons learned from her journey in the nonprofit sector.

Takeaways

  • Leadership Lessons from Personal Experience
  • The Impact of Service Dogs on Veterans

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
  • 06:01 Scaling Impact and Leadership Lessons
  • 12:07 The Transformative Impact of Service Dogs
  • 20:43 The Warrior Freedom Model and Service Dog Pairing Process
  • 27:07 Personal Insights and Leadership Advice
]]>0c508897-811d-418a-b3e2-04d3b276eb7aFri, 01 May 2026 15:02:38 GMT<p>Monica Piper, the executive director of Warrior Freedom Service Dogs, shares her experiences and insights on leading a nonprofit organization that pairs service dogs with veterans. She discusses the challenges, successes, and leadership lessons learned from her journey in the nonprofit sector.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Leadership Lessons from Personal Experience</li><li>The Impact of Service Dogs on Veterans</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to the Podcast</li><li>06:01 Scaling Impact and Leadership Lessons</li><li>12:07 The Transformative Impact of Service Dogs</li><li>20:43 The Warrior Freedom Model and Service Dog Pairing Process</li><li>27:07 Personal Insights and Leadership Advice</li></ul>no00:29:28Monica Piper - Helping a Donor Feel the Mission — Not Just Understand It.full<![CDATA[Bridget Whitney - Why Nonprofits Make It Harder for Donors to Leave a Legacy]]>The conversation covers topics related to legacy giving, donor engagement, and the work of Kids Food Basket. It delves into the organization's journey, scaling, advocacy, donor engagement strategies, legacy giving, engaging financial advisors, personal insights, and an overview of Kids Food Basket's work.

Takeaways

  • Legacy giving
  • Donor engagement

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Kids Food Basket
  • 05:12 Donor Engagement and Legacy Giving
  • 12:39 Legacy Giving and Long-Term Planning
  • 18:22 Engaging Financial Advisors
  • 24:12 Organization Overview and Conclusion
]]>dd79cc8f-3ed6-49da-9a3f-72d56c84c15fThu, 30 Apr 2026 17:16:44 GMT<p>The conversation covers topics related to legacy giving, donor engagement, and the work of Kids Food Basket. It delves into the organization's journey, scaling, advocacy, donor engagement strategies, legacy giving, engaging financial advisors, personal insights, and an overview of Kids Food Basket's work.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Legacy giving</li><li>Donor engagement</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Kids Food Basket</li><li>05:12 Donor Engagement and Legacy Giving</li><li>12:39 Legacy Giving and Long-Term Planning</li><li>18:22 Engaging Financial Advisors</li><li>24:12 Organization Overview and Conclusion</li></ul>no00:25:15Bridget Whitney - Why Nonprofits Make It Harder for Donors to Leave a Legacyfull<![CDATA[Russ Hanes - He didn't set out to build a nonprofit — he set out to survive. ]]>The podcast episode features an insightful conversation with Russ Hanes, the founder of the Invisible Wounds Project, focusing on mental health support for military, first responders, and medical staff. The discussion covers the founding of the project, understanding donor's interests, engaging donors and volunteers, making the case to donors, volunteer engagement and impact, sustainability and mission focus, personal insights, and a call to action.

Takeaways

  • Understanding donor's interests goes beyond financial contributions.
  • Engaging volunteers and donors requires aligning their goals with the organization's mission.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Now Podcast
  • 06:06 Understanding Donor's Interests
  • 13:15 Volunteer Engagement and Impact
  • 19:19 Fast Five: Personal Insights
  • 24:27 Closing Remarks and Call to Action
]]>63dffd4d-6db1-4b98-9895-f1a4fb9d3dd3Sat, 25 Apr 2026 14:21:41 GMT<p>The podcast episode features an insightful conversation with Russ Hanes, the founder of the Invisible Wounds Project, focusing on mental health support for military, first responders, and medical staff. The discussion covers the founding of the project, understanding donor's interests, engaging donors and volunteers, making the case to donors, volunteer engagement and impact, sustainability and mission focus, personal insights, and a call to action.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Understanding donor's interests goes beyond financial contributions.</li><li>Engaging volunteers and donors requires aligning their goals with the organization's mission.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Now Podcast</li><li>06:06 Understanding Donor's Interests</li><li>13:15 Volunteer Engagement and Impact</li><li>19:19 Fast Five: Personal Insights</li><li>24:27 Closing Remarks and Call to Action</li></ul>no00:22:38Russ Hanes - He didn't set out to build a nonprofit — he set out to survive. full<![CDATA[Joshua Mazrin - Partners, Not ATMs: Cultivating Donor Ownership]]>The podcast episode features an insightful conversation between Randy and Joshua Mesrin, focusing on education, donor engagement, and institutional assumptions. Joshua shares his background and discusses the Albertus Magnus Institute and the Immaculata Institute, challenging assumptions in education, fundraising philosophy, and cultivating ownership and responsibility in donors. The conversation also delves into the collegial learning environment, donor motivation, and lifestyle commitment. The Fast Five segment provides personal insights from Joshua.

Takeaways

  • Challenging institutional assumptions in education
  • Cultivating ownership and responsibility in donors

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Now Podcast
  • 07:08 Challenging Institutional Assumptions in Education
  • 13:30 Collegial Learning Environment and Engagement
  • 18:36 Fast Five: Professional Advice, Daily Habit, Advice to Young Self, Failure and Success, Favorite Place to Disconnect
]]>d747dfff-7045-4ddd-b8a1-27dde6ccdc87Fri, 24 Apr 2026 21:41:58 GMT<p>The podcast episode features an insightful conversation between Randy and Joshua Mesrin, focusing on education, donor engagement, and institutional assumptions. Joshua shares his background and discusses the Albertus Magnus Institute and the Immaculata Institute, challenging assumptions in education, fundraising philosophy, and cultivating ownership and responsibility in donors. The conversation also delves into the collegial learning environment, donor motivation, and lifestyle commitment. The Fast Five segment provides personal insights from Joshua.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Challenging institutional assumptions in education</li><li>Cultivating ownership and responsibility in donors</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Now Podcast</li><li>07:08 Challenging Institutional Assumptions in Education</li><li>13:30 Collegial Learning Environment and Engagement</li><li>18:36 Fast Five: Professional Advice, Daily Habit, Advice to Young Self, Failure and Success, Favorite Place to Disconnect</li></ul>no00:20:54Joshua Mazrin - Partners, Not ATMs: Cultivating Donor Ownershipfull<![CDATA[Adam Koloski - What Financial Health Really Looks Like Before the Crisis Hits]]>The podcast episode features a conversation with Adam Kolosik, the founder CFO, who shares insights on financial health for nonprofits and churches. The discussion covers the importance of financial management, key blind spots, and the value of financial reports. Adam also provides advice and personal insights on professional growth and development.

Takeaways

  • Financial health for nonprofits and churches requires a 'no surprise culture' and a deep understanding of cash management and accounting.
  • Key financial reports for nonprofit leaders include the cash flow statement and the balance sheet, which provide critical insights into financial health and decision-making.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Critical Financial Reports for Nonprofit Leaders
  • 14:34 Advising on Financial Metrics and Strategic Planning
]]>d64e5aa0-88d2-4d4f-8716-a535c620c94cFri, 24 Apr 2026 15:51:00 GMT<p>The podcast episode features a conversation with Adam Kolosik, the founder CFO, who shares insights on financial health for nonprofits and churches. The discussion covers the importance of financial management, key blind spots, and the value of financial reports. Adam also provides advice and personal insights on professional growth and development.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Financial health for nonprofits and churches requires a 'no surprise culture' and a deep understanding of cash management and accounting.</li><li>Key financial reports for nonprofit leaders include the cash flow statement and the balance sheet, which provide critical insights into financial health and decision-making.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Critical Financial Reports for Nonprofit Leaders</li><li>14:34 Advising on Financial Metrics and Strategic Planning</li></ul>no00:19:12Adam Koloski - What Financial Health Really Looks Like Before the Crisis Hitsfull<![CDATA[Kerrie Holschbach - The Goat Gets Us in the Door: How to Fundraise to Change Lives]]>The podcast episode delves into the challenges of fundraising for intangible outcomes, the importance of slowing down to find the right diagnosis, building a culture that rewards obsolescence, and empowering and equipping people for self-sustainability in nonprofit work.

Takeaways

  • Understanding the importance of slowing down to find the right diagnosis
  • Fundraising for intangible outcomes
  • Building a culture that rewards obsolescence
  • Empowering and equipping people for self-sustainability

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Fundraising and Nonprofit Work
  • 07:01 Fundraising for Intangible Outcomes
  • 13:37 Empowering and Equipping for Self-Sustainability
]]>cdad2201-a2f5-4519-90f4-78b683d15e90Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:57:29 GMT<p>The podcast episode delves into the challenges of fundraising for intangible outcomes, the importance of slowing down to find the right diagnosis, building a culture that rewards obsolescence, and empowering and equipping people for self-sustainability in nonprofit work.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Understanding the importance of slowing down to find the right diagnosis</li><li>Fundraising for intangible outcomes</li><li>Building a culture that rewards obsolescence</li><li>Empowering and equipping people for self-sustainability</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Fundraising and Nonprofit Work</li><li>07:01 Fundraising for Intangible Outcomes</li><li>13:37 Empowering and Equipping for Self-Sustainability</li></ul>no00:20:51Kerrie Holschbach - The Goat Gets Us in the Door: How to Fundraise to Change Livesfull<![CDATA[Caleb Spitler - How to have Effective Donor Conversations]]>The conversation explores the challenges and strategies for nonprofit leaders to engage and retain donors through effective communication and relationship-building. It emphasizes the importance of humility, empathy, and understanding the donor's perspective to create lasting partnerships.

Takeaways

  • Effective communication is the bedrock of donor development and nonprofit leadership.
  • Building trust, avoiding rejection, and connecting with donors on a deeper level are essential for long-term partnerships.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership
  • 06:36 Avoiding Rejection and Building Trust
  • 13:25 Crafting Messages that Move People
  • 19:17 Overcoming Rejection and Embracing Humility
  • 27:42 Disconnecting and Recharging
]]>1f298157-2761-491f-857a-329ef280bdd5Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:34:59 GMT<p>The conversation explores the challenges and strategies for nonprofit leaders to engage and retain donors through effective communication and relationship-building. It emphasizes the importance of humility, empathy, and understanding the donor's perspective to create lasting partnerships.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Effective communication is the bedrock of donor development and nonprofit leadership.</li><li>Building trust, avoiding rejection, and connecting with donors on a deeper level are essential for long-term partnerships.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership</li><li>06:36 Avoiding Rejection and Building Trust</li><li>13:25 Crafting Messages that Move People</li><li>19:17 Overcoming Rejection and Embracing Humility</li><li>27:42 Disconnecting and Recharging</li></ul>no00:27:24Caleb Spitler - How to have Effective Donor Conversationsfull<![CDATA[Franklin Senters - He Gave Away Bibles — and Discovered the Secret to Donor Engagement]]>The conversation covers a range of topics related to nonprofit leadership, donor engagement, and personal insights. Dr. Franklin J. Senters shares valuable advice for nonprofit leaders, emphasizing the importance of engaging donors, understanding their needs, and staying true to the organization's purpose. He also reflects on personal experiences and offers insights into leadership and self-care.

Takeaways

  • Engaging donors goes beyond financial contributions
  • Understanding donor engagement is key to nonprofit success

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Expansion
  • 06:34 Adding Value to Donors
  • 13:59 Moving Donors from Awareness to Commitment
  • 19:45 Understanding Donor Engagement
  • 25:20 Advice for Emerging Leaders
  • 30:48 Favorite Place to Disconnect and Recharge
]]>339db318-0bda-404b-8321-9dbabca8d6aeThu, 16 Apr 2026 16:34:02 GMT<p>The conversation covers a range of topics related to nonprofit leadership, donor engagement, and personal insights. Dr. Franklin J. Senters shares valuable advice for nonprofit leaders, emphasizing the importance of engaging donors, understanding their needs, and staying true to the organization's purpose. He also reflects on personal experiences and offers insights into leadership and self-care.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Engaging donors goes beyond financial contributions</li><li>Understanding donor engagement is key to nonprofit success</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Expansion</li><li>06:34 Adding Value to Donors</li><li>13:59 Moving Donors from Awareness to Commitment</li><li>19:45 Understanding Donor Engagement</li><li>25:20 Advice for Emerging Leaders</li><li>30:48 Favorite Place to Disconnect and Recharge</li></ul>no00:30:13Franklin Senters - He Gave Away Bibles — and Discovered the Secret to Donor Engagementfull<![CDATA[Russ Hanes - Russ Haynes didn't set out to build a nonprofit — he set out to survive.]]>The podcast episode features Dr. Randy Dirks and Russ Haynes, the founder of the Invisible Wounds Project. They discuss the importance of understanding donor's interests and the impact of personal experience on nonprofit work. Russ shares his journey of founding the Invisible Wounds Project and the challenges of engaging donors and fundraising. The conversation also covers the significance of making the case to donors, volunteer engagement, sustainability, and personal insights from Russ. The episode concludes with a call to action to connect with the Invisible Wounds Project.

Takeaways

  • Understanding donor's interests
  • Impact of personal experience on nonprofit work

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
  • 06:06 Understanding Donor's Interests
  • 13:15 Volunteer Engagement and Impact
  • 19:19 Fast Five: Personal Insights
  • 24:27 Closing and Call to Action
]]>6d61c884-2362-48bc-8228-ea157960f099Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:27:20 GMT<p>The podcast episode features Dr. Randy Dirks and Russ Haynes, the founder of the Invisible Wounds Project. They discuss the importance of understanding donor's interests and the impact of personal experience on nonprofit work. Russ shares his journey of founding the Invisible Wounds Project and the challenges of engaging donors and fundraising. The conversation also covers the significance of making the case to donors, volunteer engagement, sustainability, and personal insights from Russ. The episode concludes with a call to action to connect with the Invisible Wounds Project.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Understanding donor's interests</li><li>Impact of personal experience on nonprofit work</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to the Podcast</li><li>06:06 Understanding Donor's Interests</li><li>13:15 Volunteer Engagement and Impact</li><li>19:19 Fast Five: Personal Insights</li><li>24:27 Closing and Call to Action</li></ul>no00:22:38Russ Hanes - Russ Haynes didn't set out to build a nonprofit — he set out to survive.full<![CDATA[Al Goracke - From Snow Banks to 103,000 Families: Leading Volunteers Nobody Talks About]]>The conversation delves into the journey of Hope for the Community, highlighting leadership principles, team building, navigating community crisis, and funding. It also provides personal and professional insights, daily habits, life lessons, advice to a younger self, and overcoming failures. The discussion concludes with a focus on disconnecting and recharging.

Takeaways

  • Building effective teams in non-profit organizations
  • Leadership principles in non-profit organizations

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Non-Profit Leadership
  • 11:28 Leadership Principles and Team Building
  • 18:01 Daily Habits and Life Lessons
]]>49164631-3ff1-4b00-9dda-7db597f7ad70Mon, 13 Apr 2026 22:22:11 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the journey of Hope for the Community, highlighting leadership principles, team building, navigating community crisis, and funding. It also provides personal and professional insights, daily habits, life lessons, advice to a younger self, and overcoming failures. The discussion concludes with a focus on disconnecting and recharging.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Building effective teams in non-profit organizations</li><li>Leadership principles in non-profit organizations</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Non-Profit Leadership</li><li>11:28 Leadership Principles and Team Building</li><li>18:01 Daily Habits and Life Lessons</li></ul>no00:22:05Al Goracke - From Snow Banks to 103,000 Families: Leading Volunteers Nobody Talks Aboutfull<![CDATA[Serena Kelsch - How Radical Honesty Turned a $250K Gift Into a $17.5 Million Partnership]]>The conversation covers the topics of building donor relationships and innovation during a crisis. It delves into the background and introduction, scaling funding and impact, a breakthrough moment in revenue growth, getting unstuck and finding new ways, securing a $16 million partnership, building a true partnership model, innovation under pressure, AI and the future of fundraising, and personal and professional insights.

Takeaways

  • Building donor relationships
  • Innovation during crisis

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background
  • 05:12 Securing a $16 Million Partnership
  • 11:55 AI and the Future of Fundraising
]]>a44685e7-fd01-45ad-b296-7c1d33d284d2Mon, 13 Apr 2026 21:55:03 GMT<p>The conversation covers the topics of building donor relationships and innovation during a crisis. It delves into the background and introduction, scaling funding and impact, a breakthrough moment in revenue growth, getting unstuck and finding new ways, securing a $16 million partnership, building a true partnership model, innovation under pressure, AI and the future of fundraising, and personal and professional insights.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Building donor relationships</li><li>Innovation during crisis</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Background</li><li>05:12 Securing a $16 Million Partnership</li><li>11:55 AI and the Future of Fundraising</li></ul>no00:20:18Serena Kelsch - How Radical Honesty Turned a $250K Gift Into a $17.5 Million Partnershipfull<![CDATA[Madeleine (Maddie) Nance - Your Donors Aren't Ignoring You — They Just Don't Feel Anything Yet]]>The conversation explores the critical role of communication in nonprofit organizations, emphasizing the impact of emotions and personalization in donor communications. It also delves into the cost of ineffective communication in fundraising teams and provides insights into professional advice, daily habits, and personal growth. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the importance of disconnecting and recharging.

Takeaways

  • Emotional connection is key in donor communications
  • Personalization and segmentation improve donor engagement

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Now Podcast
  • 05:33 The Impact of Professional and Data-Driven Communication
  • 11:41 Segmenting Donor Communication for Better Engagement
  • 17:22 Professional Advice and Daily Habits
]]>ab15b1ba-ef14-433d-8764-08d0a156ca2aMon, 13 Apr 2026 17:48:04 GMT<p>The conversation explores the critical role of communication in nonprofit organizations, emphasizing the impact of emotions and personalization in donor communications. It also delves into the cost of ineffective communication in fundraising teams and provides insights into professional advice, daily habits, and personal growth. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the importance of disconnecting and recharging.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Emotional connection is key in donor communications</li><li>Personalization and segmentation improve donor engagement</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Now Podcast</li><li>05:33 The Impact of Professional and Data-Driven Communication</li><li>11:41 Segmenting Donor Communication for Better Engagement</li><li>17:22 Professional Advice and Daily Habits</li></ul>no00:21:14Madeleine (Maddie) Nance - Your Donors Aren't Ignoring You — They Just Don't Feel Anything Yetfull<![CDATA[Andrea McMaster - When Silence Speaks Louder Than Words]]>In this episode, Dr. Randy Dirks interviews Andrea McMaster, the president of Amplify Mission Network, discussing topics such as crisis management, effective communication strategies, and the power of storytelling in nonprofit leadership. Andrea shares valuable insights and practical advice for nonprofit leaders to navigate public crises, communicate impact, and become compelling spokespersons for their organizations.

Takeaways

  • Crisis Management: Nonprofit leaders should respond quickly, clearly, and honestly in the first 24 hours of a public crisis to maintain donor trust.
  • Storytelling and Communication: Nonprofits should focus on sharing clear human stories and building intentional content to create connection and drive generosity.
  • Leadership and Communication: Nonprofit leaders should practice speaking out loud, know their core message, and surround themselves with strong leaders to become compelling spokespersons for their organizations.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
  • 06:16 Handling Public Crises in Nonprofits
  • 11:45 Becoming a Compelling Spokesperson for Nonprofits
  • 20:58 Learning from Failure and Finding Recharge
]]>c4f79715-aee7-4ff4-9ce1-3add76727b3aFri, 10 Apr 2026 19:29:45 GMT<p>In this episode, Dr. Randy Dirks interviews Andrea McMaster, the president of Amplify Mission Network, discussing topics such as crisis management, effective communication strategies, and the power of storytelling in nonprofit leadership. Andrea shares valuable insights and practical advice for nonprofit leaders to navigate public crises, communicate impact, and become compelling spokespersons for their organizations.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Crisis Management: Nonprofit leaders should respond quickly, clearly, and honestly in the first 24 hours of a public crisis to maintain donor trust.</li><li>Storytelling and Communication: Nonprofits should focus on sharing clear human stories and building intentional content to create connection and drive generosity.</li><li>Leadership and Communication: Nonprofit leaders should practice speaking out loud, know their core message, and surround themselves with strong leaders to become compelling spokespersons for their organizations.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction</li><li>06:16 Handling Public Crises in Nonprofits</li><li>11:45 Becoming a Compelling Spokesperson for Nonprofits</li><li>20:58 Learning from Failure and Finding Recharge</li></ul>no00:23:05Andrea McMaster - When Silence Speaks Louder Than Wordsfull<![CDATA[Tammy Kocher - Relationship Beats Strategy Every Time - Building a Nonprofit That Lasts]]>The conversation delves into the importance of transparency and longevity in building sustainable donor trust, the significance of cultivating a mission-focused and personally sustainable staff culture, and the need for diversifying revenue sources for financial resilience. Additionally, the transformative impact of trusting in God's provision and aligning with His mission is highlighted.

Takeaways

  • Transparency and longevity are key to building sustainable donor trust.
  • Cultivating a staff culture that stays mission-focused and personally sustainable is essential.
  • Diversifying revenue sources and building relationships with donors are crucial for financial resilience.
  • Trusting in God's provision and aligning with His mission is transformative in leadership and fundraising.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Building Sustainable Donor Trust
  • 07:08 Cultivating a Mission-Focused Staff Culture
  • 12:38 Diversifying Revenue Sources for Financial Resilience
]]>be46be9f-6be1-4022-b517-902c898310f8Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:47:54 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the importance of transparency and longevity in building sustainable donor trust, the significance of cultivating a mission-focused and personally sustainable staff culture, and the need for diversifying revenue sources for financial resilience. Additionally, the transformative impact of trusting in God's provision and aligning with His mission is highlighted.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Transparency and longevity are key to building sustainable donor trust.</li><li>Cultivating a staff culture that stays mission-focused and personally sustainable is essential.</li><li>Diversifying revenue sources and building relationships with donors are crucial for financial resilience.</li><li>Trusting in God's provision and aligning with His mission is transformative in leadership and fundraising.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Building Sustainable Donor Trust</li><li>07:08 Cultivating a Mission-Focused Staff Culture</li><li>12:38 Diversifying Revenue Sources for Financial Resilience</li></ul>no00:22:35Tammy Kocher - Relationship Beats Strategy Every Time - Building a Nonprofit That Lastsfull<![CDATA[Corey Magstadt - Nonprofits Are Solving the Wrong Problem — And It’s Costing Millions]]>The conversation with Corey Magstadt covers topics related to nonprofit challenges, grant strategy, youth participation, equity, and effective program design. Corey shares insights on the misconceptions about serving homeless youth, the importance of staying true to the mission, and the need for internal DEI work within nonprofits. He also discusses the impact of funding models on program outcomes and the significance of listening to constituents. Additionally, Corey reflects on professional advice, daily habits, and personal growth.

Takeaways

  • Nonprofits should prioritize internal DEI work and listen to the lived experiences of their constituents.
  • Funders should support smaller and startup nonprofits and consider the impact of funding models on program outcomes.
  • Investing in young people experiencing homelessness has significant financial and moral benefits.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Nonprofit Challenges and Program Models
  • 08:24 Youth Participation and Equity
  • 13:43 Misconceptions About Serving Homeless Youth
]]>239a6761-d192-4eed-b26e-15808f05655bSat, 04 Apr 2026 14:22:27 GMT<p>The conversation with Corey Magstadt covers topics related to nonprofit challenges, grant strategy, youth participation, equity, and effective program design. Corey shares insights on the misconceptions about serving homeless youth, the importance of staying true to the mission, and the need for internal DEI work within nonprofits. He also discusses the impact of funding models on program outcomes and the significance of listening to constituents. Additionally, Corey reflects on professional advice, daily habits, and personal growth.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Nonprofits should prioritize internal DEI work and listen to the lived experiences of their constituents.</li><li>Funders should support smaller and startup nonprofits and consider the impact of funding models on program outcomes.</li><li>Investing in young people experiencing homelessness has significant financial and moral benefits.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Nonprofit Challenges and Program Models</li><li>08:24 Youth Participation and Equity</li><li>13:43 Misconceptions About Serving Homeless Youth</li></ul>no00:23:28Corey Magstadt - Nonprofits Are Solving the Wrong Problem — And It’s Costing Millionsfull<![CDATA[Rhea LeGrande - She Leads 2,000 Volunteers this Belief: The Champions Are Already Out There.]]>The conversation explores the challenges of finding volunteers, mobilizing the community for literacy, leadership mindset for volunteer pipeline, literacy as liberation, impactful collaborations, navigating stakeholder priorities, advice and daily habit, advice to younger self and learning from failure, and disconnecting and recharging. The guest, Rhea LeGrande, shares insights and experiences related to these themes, offering valuable perspectives on community engagement and literacy advocacy.

Takeaways

  • Mobilizing the community is essential for literacy programs
  • Leadership mindset is crucial for sustaining a volunteer pipeline

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Challenge of Finding Volunteers
  • 06:01 Partnerships and Impactful Collaborations
  • 22:32 Navigating Stakeholder Priorities
  • 28:09 Advice to Younger Self and Learning from Failure
]]>d7aaa6e9-e4a0-45f3-a53d-3fc9e6ffba83Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:54:09 GMT<p>The conversation explores the challenges of finding volunteers, mobilizing the community for literacy, leadership mindset for volunteer pipeline, literacy as liberation, impactful collaborations, navigating stakeholder priorities, advice and daily habit, advice to younger self and learning from failure, and disconnecting and recharging. The guest, Rhea LeGrande, shares insights and experiences related to these themes, offering valuable perspectives on community engagement and literacy advocacy.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Mobilizing the community is essential for literacy programs</li><li>Leadership mindset is crucial for sustaining a volunteer pipeline</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Challenge of Finding Volunteers</li><li>06:01 Partnerships and Impactful Collaborations</li><li>22:32 Navigating Stakeholder Priorities</li><li>28:09 Advice to Younger Self and Learning from Failure</li></ul>no00:29:39Rhea LeGrande - She Leads 2,000 Volunteers this Belief: The Champions Are Already Out There.full<![CDATA[Melissa LaPlante - What Nonprofits Are Missing Is Right Under Their Nose]]>The conversation explores the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders in maximizing team potential, uncovering hidden assets, building sustainable fundraising relationships, utilizing AI-driven workflows, creating alignment, and the power of self-awareness in leadership.

Takeaways

  • Maximizing team potential through individual strengths and talents
  • Building sustainable relationships beyond financial contributions

Chapters

  • 00:00 Maximizing Nonprofit Team Potential
  • 05:36 Sustainable Relationship-Driven Fundraising
  • 13:21 Creating Alignment in Nonprofit Organizations
  • 22:03 The Power of Self-Awareness in Leadership
]]>eadf410a-50e3-4d8a-ab11-74137f17a2ffFri, 03 Apr 2026 16:11:38 GMT<p>The conversation explores the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders in maximizing team potential, uncovering hidden assets, building sustainable fundraising relationships, utilizing AI-driven workflows, creating alignment, and the power of self-awareness in leadership.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Maximizing team potential through individual strengths and talents</li><li>Building sustainable relationships beyond financial contributions</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Maximizing Nonprofit Team Potential</li><li>05:36 Sustainable Relationship-Driven Fundraising</li><li>13:21 Creating Alignment in Nonprofit Organizations</li><li>22:03 The Power of Self-Awareness in Leadership</li></ul>no00:25:21Melissa LaPlante - What Nonprofits Are Missing Is Right Under Their Nosefull<![CDATA[Fursey Gotuaco - Never mentioned a price tag, just told stories]]>The conversation explores the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders in effective communication and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, empathy, and personal presence. It also delves into the role of innate talents, the impact of failure, and the significance of thoughtful questioning in building lasting partnerships. The guest, Fursey Gotuaco, shares insights and practical advice for nonprofit leaders to enhance their communication skills and connect with donors and partners.

Takeaways

  • Authenticity in communication is key
  • Storytelling and personal presence are vital for attracting funding and building lasting partnerships

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Challenge of Nonprofit Communication
  • 06:03 The Power of Storytelling in Nonprofit Communication
  • 12:45 Discovering Innate Talents and Turning Them into Strengths
  • 20:59 The Significance of Thoughtful Questioning
]]>37ef14e3-06e5-476a-91a5-6c689e8cb358Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:03:41 GMT<p>The conversation explores the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders in effective communication and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, empathy, and personal presence. It also delves into the role of innate talents, the impact of failure, and the significance of thoughtful questioning in building lasting partnerships. The guest, Fursey Gotuaco, shares insights and practical advice for nonprofit leaders to enhance their communication skills and connect with donors and partners.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Authenticity in communication is key</li><li>Storytelling and personal presence are vital for attracting funding and building lasting partnerships</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Challenge of Nonprofit Communication</li><li>06:03 The Power of Storytelling in Nonprofit Communication</li><li>12:45 Discovering Innate Talents and Turning Them into Strengths</li><li>20:59 The Significance of Thoughtful Questioning</li></ul>no00:25:19Fursey Gotuaco - Never mentioned a price tag, just told storiesfull<![CDATA[Dena Vongchang - Why Fundraising Operations Are Your Nonprofit’s Greatest Untapped Asset]]>The podcast episode features a conversation between Dr. Randy Dirks and Dena Vongchang, founder of Good Soup, focusing on fundraising operations for nonprofit teams. They discuss the importance of CRM management, donor retention, and the impact of fundraising operations on relationship-building. Dena shares insights on operational fixes that can free up capacity for relationship-building and the real cost of underinvesting in fundraising operations.

Takeaways

  • CRM management is crucial for donor retention and relationship-building
  • Operational fixes such as creating templates and streamlining processes can free up capacity for relationship-building
  • Underinvesting in fundraising operations can lead to a loss of donor momentum and pipeline integrity

Chapters

  • 00:00 Professional and Personal Insights
]]>9f83218b-b34f-4217-862f-5905932506ceMon, 30 Mar 2026 19:42:01 GMT<p>The podcast episode features a conversation between Dr. Randy Dirks and Dena Vongchang, founder of Good Soup, focusing on fundraising operations for nonprofit teams. They discuss the importance of CRM management, donor retention, and the impact of fundraising operations on relationship-building. Dena shares insights on operational fixes that can free up capacity for relationship-building and the real cost of underinvesting in fundraising operations.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>CRM management is crucial for donor retention and relationship-building</li><li>Operational fixes such as creating templates and streamlining processes can free up capacity for relationship-building</li><li>Underinvesting in fundraising operations can lead to a loss of donor momentum and pipeline integrity</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Professional and Personal Insights</li></ul>no00:25:00Dena Vongchang - Why Fundraising Operations Are Your Nonprofit’s Greatest Untapped Assetfull<![CDATA[Rita Ernst - What Leaders Get Wrong About Employee Engagement]]>The conversation explores the importance of creating a workplace environment that values and fulfills employees, understanding the three pillars of sustained happiness, adding value to team members, building a culture of accountability and wellbeing, and addressing outdated leadership habits and the need for flexibility in the workplace.

Takeaways

  • Employee appreciation through simple practices
  • Understanding human needs in the workplace

Chapters

  • 00:00 Creating a Workplace of Value and Fulfillment
  • 10:20 Adding Value to Team Members
  • 19:18 Outdated Leadership Habits and Flexibility in the Workplace
]]>6ab3449c-c45f-4692-926d-98acc74f4ceaThu, 19 Mar 2026 20:07:34 GMT<p>The conversation explores the importance of creating a workplace environment that values and fulfills employees, understanding the three pillars of sustained happiness, adding value to team members, building a culture of accountability and wellbeing, and addressing outdated leadership habits and the need for flexibility in the workplace.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Employee appreciation through simple practices</li><li>Understanding human needs in the workplace</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Creating a Workplace of Value and Fulfillment</li><li>10:20 Adding Value to Team Members</li><li>19:18 Outdated Leadership Habits and Flexibility in the Workplace</li></ul>no00:29:18Rita Ernst - What Leaders Get Wrong About Employee Engagementfull<![CDATA[Angela Shope - FROM BURNOUT TO BREAKTHROUGH]]>The conversation delves into the pressure faced by nonprofit leaders, the strategic shifts needed for struggling nonprofits, and the importance of protecting the mission and the team. It also explores overlooked fundraising strategies and the significance of strategic vision and impact in nonprofit organizations.

Takeaways

  • Protecting the team without burning them out
  • Strategic shifts for struggling nonprofits

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Pressure on Nonprofit Leaders
  • 10:23 Protecting the Mission and the Team
  • 17:45 Strategic Vision and Impact
]]>d8cc7d2e-0330-4503-9882-93b3cc1d1b80Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:19:26 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the pressure faced by nonprofit leaders, the strategic shifts needed for struggling nonprofits, and the importance of protecting the mission and the team. It also explores overlooked fundraising strategies and the significance of strategic vision and impact in nonprofit organizations.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Protecting the team without burning them out</li><li>Strategic shifts for struggling nonprofits</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Pressure on Nonprofit Leaders</li><li>10:23 Protecting the Mission and the Team</li><li>17:45 Strategic Vision and Impact</li></ul>no00:26:30Angela Shope - FROM BURNOUT TO BREAKTHROUGHfull<![CDATA[Derric Bakker - We Built Fundraising for an Era That No Longer Exists — Here's What Replaces It]]>The conversation delves into the state of nonprofits today, the single biggest mistake in fundraising, the donor retention crisis, earning second gifts, treating every donor like a major donor, and understanding today's donors. Key takeaways include the importance of trust, connection, and gratitude in fundraising, the role of AI in amplifying the human connection, and the shift in donor behavior among younger generations.

Takeaways

  • Trust and connection are crucial for donors
  • Listening is a fundraiser's most important skill
  • Gratitude is a powerful and underutilized tool in fundraising
  • AI can be used to amplify the human connection in fundraising
  • Younger generations want to get involved first and then give

Chapters

  • 00:00 The State of Nonprofits Today
  • 06:46 Donor Retention Crisis
  • 16:17 Treating Every Donor Like a Major Donor
  • 23:45 Understanding Today's Donors
]]>1438bae3-d93f-47dd-8900-9ddb17bd4aceFri, 13 Mar 2026 19:32:19 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the state of nonprofits today, the single biggest mistake in fundraising, the donor retention crisis, earning second gifts, treating every donor like a major donor, and understanding today's donors. Key takeaways include the importance of trust, connection, and gratitude in fundraising, the role of AI in amplifying the human connection, and the shift in donor behavior among younger generations.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Trust and connection are crucial for donors</li><li>Listening is a fundraiser's most important skill</li><li>Gratitude is a powerful and underutilized tool in fundraising</li><li>AI can be used to amplify the human connection in fundraising</li><li>Younger generations want to get involved first and then give</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The State of Nonprofits Today</li><li>06:46 Donor Retention Crisis</li><li>16:17 Treating Every Donor Like a Major Donor</li><li>23:45 Understanding Today's Donors</li></ul>no00:36:17Derric Bakker - We Built Fundraising for an Era That No Longer Exists — Here's What Replaces Itfull<![CDATA[Jill Johnson - She's Influenced $4 Billion in Decisions — Here's What Nonprofit Leaders Need to Hear]]>The conversation covers strategic guidance for nonprofit leaders, evaluating critical decisions, transforming boards, and understanding market forces and donor preferences. Jill Johnson shares insights on leadership effectiveness, staff development, and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, skill-building, and strategic thinking in nonprofit leadership. Additionally, she highlights the value of depth in relationships and the significance of continuous learning and adaptation.

Takeaways

  • Strategic guidance for nonprofit leaders is essential for evaluating critical decisions and transforming boards.
  • Understanding market forces and donor preferences is crucial for nonprofit leaders to adapt their communication and fundraising strategies. Leadership practice for nonprofit presidents: Inspire donors and staff around the mission
  • Invest in staff development and mentorship for skill-building
  • Life is a marathon, not a sprint: Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth
  • Depth in relationships and strategic thinking are key to success

Chapters

  • 00:00 Strategic Guidance for Nonprofit Leaders
  • 12:29 Transforming Boards
  • 21:21 Understanding Market Forces and Donor Preferences
  • 47:21 Depth in Relationships and Strategic Thinking
]]>9da07459-fa9e-4a3c-9105-a7370157d31eThu, 12 Mar 2026 18:30:19 GMT<p>The conversation covers strategic guidance for nonprofit leaders, evaluating critical decisions, transforming boards, and understanding market forces and donor preferences. Jill Johnson shares insights on leadership effectiveness, staff development, and personal growth. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, skill-building, and strategic thinking in nonprofit leadership. Additionally, she highlights the value of depth in relationships and the significance of continuous learning and adaptation.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Strategic guidance for nonprofit leaders is essential for evaluating critical decisions and transforming boards.</li><li>Understanding market forces and donor preferences is crucial for nonprofit leaders to adapt their communication and fundraising strategies. Leadership practice for nonprofit presidents: Inspire donors and staff around the mission</li><li>Invest in staff development and mentorship for skill-building</li><li>Life is a marathon, not a sprint: Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth</li><li>Depth in relationships and strategic thinking are key to success</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Strategic Guidance for Nonprofit Leaders</li><li>12:29 Transforming Boards</li><li>21:21 Understanding Market Forces and Donor Preferences</li><li>47:21 Depth in Relationships and Strategic Thinking</li></ul>no00:49:03Jill Johnson - She's Influenced $4 Billion in Decisions — Here's What Nonprofit Leaders Need to Hearfull<![CDATA[Chris McGown - The $3 Million Secret Hiding in Your $10 Donor List]]>The podcast episode features a discussion with Chris McGown, a plan giving professional, covering topics such as misconceptions about plan giving, the power of wills, engaging donors, success stories, professional advice, daily habits, advice to a younger self, and favorite places to disconnect and recharge. Chris shares valuable insights and resources for nonprofits interested in plan giving.

Takeaways

  • Plan giving is not limited to large nonprofits; even smaller organizations can start plan giving programs.
  • Engaging donors in plan giving involves consistent and persistent messaging about wills and estate planning.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Plan Giving
  • 08:00 The Power of Wills in Plan Giving
  • 16:38 Success Story and Advice
  • 24:15 Favorite Places to Disconnect and Recharge
]]>132b0bb2-05c5-4f4b-8468-ac69954e638eTue, 10 Mar 2026 19:51:30 GMT<p>The podcast episode features a discussion with Chris McGown, a plan giving professional, covering topics such as misconceptions about plan giving, the power of wills, engaging donors, success stories, professional advice, daily habits, advice to a younger self, and favorite places to disconnect and recharge. Chris shares valuable insights and resources for nonprofits interested in plan giving.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Plan giving is not limited to large nonprofits; even smaller organizations can start plan giving programs.</li><li>Engaging donors in plan giving involves consistent and persistent messaging about wills and estate planning.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Plan Giving</li><li>08:00 The Power of Wills in Plan Giving</li><li>16:38 Success Story and Advice</li><li>24:15 Favorite Places to Disconnect and Recharge</li></ul>no00:25:30Chris McGown - The $3 Million Secret Hiding in Your $10 Donor Listfull<![CDATA[Lyn Wineman - When Nonprofits Get Branding Right, Everything Changes]]>The conversation delves into the importance of branding for nonprofits, addressing misconceptions, the value of investing in branding, and the impact of strong branding on nonprofit organizations. It also includes personal and professional insights from the speakers.

Takeaways

  • Misconceptions about branding in the nonprofit sector
  • The impact of strong branding on nonprofit organizations

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Branding
  • 08:31 Investing in Branding for Nonprofits
  • 16:46 Impact of Strong Branding on Nonprofits
  • 22:13 Professional and Personal Insights
]]>addf9bf5-2800-4303-80a1-4b7132f250afMon, 09 Mar 2026 22:40:40 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the importance of branding for nonprofits, addressing misconceptions, the value of investing in branding, and the impact of strong branding on nonprofit organizations. It also includes personal and professional insights from the speakers.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Misconceptions about branding in the nonprofit sector</li><li>The impact of strong branding on nonprofit organizations</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Branding</li><li>08:31 Investing in Branding for Nonprofits</li><li>16:46 Impact of Strong Branding on Nonprofits</li><li>22:13 Professional and Personal Insights</li></ul>no00:30:13Lyn Wineman - When Nonprofits Get Branding Right, Everything Changesfull<![CDATA[Kevin Eastway - What if Slowing Down Is the Fastest Way Forward?]]>The podcast episode delves into the challenges of fundraising and the practical guidance for nonprofit leaders. It explores the transition from transactional fundraising to relationship-centered generosity, emphasizing the importance of aligning internally before acting externally. The conversation also highlights the impact of slowing down to speed up, navigating high-stake moments in nonprofits, and the universal traits of healthy and fundable nonprofits.

Takeaways

  • Slowing down to listen can speed up trust and progress
  • Moving from transactional fundraising to relationship-centered generosity
  • The importance of aligning internally before acting externally
  • The universal traits of healthy and fundable nonprofits

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Fundraising Challenges
  • 07:47 The Impact of Slowing Down to Speed Up
  • 15:13 Universal Traits of Healthy and Fundable Nonprofits
]]>045825db-1ad5-4a1b-9ebb-2ffe7056a079Fri, 06 Mar 2026 23:31:33 GMT<p>The podcast episode delves into the challenges of fundraising and the practical guidance for nonprofit leaders. It explores the transition from transactional fundraising to relationship-centered generosity, emphasizing the importance of aligning internally before acting externally. The conversation also highlights the impact of slowing down to speed up, navigating high-stake moments in nonprofits, and the universal traits of healthy and fundable nonprofits.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Slowing down to listen can speed up trust and progress</li><li>Moving from transactional fundraising to relationship-centered generosity</li><li>The importance of aligning internally before acting externally</li><li>The universal traits of healthy and fundable nonprofits</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Fundraising Challenges</li><li>07:47 The Impact of Slowing Down to Speed Up</li><li>15:13 Universal Traits of Healthy and Fundable Nonprofits</li></ul>no00:24:23Kevin Eastway - What if Slowing Down Is the Fastest Way Forward?full<![CDATA[Shawn Morrison - Forming Partnerships in the Community]]>The conversation delves into the transformative power of kindness, the importance of community ownership, and the true meaning of partnership in the nonprofit world. It also emphasizes the value of process over outcomes, the need for disconnecting and recharging, and the lessons learned from failure.

Takeaways

  • Kindness as a Change Agent
  • Community Ownership and Responsibility
  • Understanding True Partnership
  • Valuing Process Over Outcomes
  • Disconnecting and Recharging
  • Learning from Failure

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Power of Kindness
  • 06:39 Building Community Ownership
  • 13:07 Valuing Process Over Outcomes
  • 32:12 Disconnecting and Recharging
]]>951618a8-0dee-4003-a2b4-092407e7b391Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:56:20 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the transformative power of kindness, the importance of community ownership, and the true meaning of partnership in the nonprofit world. It also emphasizes the value of process over outcomes, the need for disconnecting and recharging, and the lessons learned from failure.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Kindness as a Change Agent</li><li>Community Ownership and Responsibility</li><li>Understanding True Partnership</li><li>Valuing Process Over Outcomes</li><li>Disconnecting and Recharging</li><li>Learning from Failure</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Power of Kindness</li><li>06:39 Building Community Ownership</li><li>13:07 Valuing Process Over Outcomes</li><li>32:12 Disconnecting and Recharging</li></ul>no00:32:09Shawn Morrison - Forming Partnerships in the Communityfull<![CDATA[Dr. Daniel Freeman - Non-Profit Leaders Making Decisions Alone And What It Costs]]>In this podcast episode, Dr. Randy Dirks interviews Dr. Daniel Freeman, an executive thought partner for senior leaders in the nonprofit space. They discuss the misaligned incentives and the need for creating space for clarity in major philanthropic relationships. Dr. Freeman shares insights on the challenges faced by leaders in higher education and the importance of politically safe spaces for clear thinking.

Takeaways

  • Misaligned Incentives
  • Creating Space for Clarity

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Daniel Freeman
  • 06:37 Navigating Major Philanthropic Relationships
]]>9f8870eb-cf7e-4f4b-80e9-577c9f70d0ecFri, 06 Mar 2026 00:12:20 GMT<p>In this podcast episode, Dr. Randy Dirks interviews Dr. Daniel Freeman, an executive thought partner for senior leaders in the nonprofit space. They discuss the misaligned incentives and the need for creating space for clarity in major philanthropic relationships. Dr. Freeman shares insights on the challenges faced by leaders in higher education and the importance of politically safe spaces for clear thinking.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Misaligned Incentives</li><li>Creating Space for Clarity</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Daniel Freeman</li><li>06:37 Navigating Major Philanthropic Relationships</li></ul>no00:31:55Dr. Daniel Freeman - Non-Profit Leaders Making Decisions Alone And What It Costsfull<![CDATA[Melody Vachal - Facing Exhaustion as Non-Profit Leaders]]>The conversation explores the themes of leadership resilience, micro-self care, finding joy in small victories, caregiver support, and personal insights. It emphasizes the importance of pausing, responding thoughtfully, and finding joy in small victories to sustain leaders and caregivers. Additionally, it highlights the need for flexibility and support for caregivers to ensure organizational sustainability.

Takeaways

  • Resilience is about knowing when to pause and respond thoughtfully.
  • Micro-self care involves small, frequent habits to reset and recharge.
  • Finding joy in small victories sustains people and provides strength.
  • Flexibility and support for caregivers are essential for organizational sustainability.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Rebuilding Leadership Resilience
  • 05:36 Micro-Self Care and Resilience
  • 13:03 Caregiver Support and Organizational Sustainability
]]>927102e4-f5b2-4002-98ec-0b39b7c44c18Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:30:47 GMT<p>The conversation explores the themes of leadership resilience, micro-self care, finding joy in small victories, caregiver support, and personal insights. It emphasizes the importance of pausing, responding thoughtfully, and finding joy in small victories to sustain leaders and caregivers. Additionally, it highlights the need for flexibility and support for caregivers to ensure organizational sustainability.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Resilience is about knowing when to pause and respond thoughtfully.</li><li>Micro-self care involves small, frequent habits to reset and recharge.</li><li>Finding joy in small victories sustains people and provides strength.</li><li>Flexibility and support for caregivers are essential for organizational sustainability.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Rebuilding Leadership Resilience</li><li>05:36 Micro-Self Care and Resilience</li><li>13:03 Caregiver Support and Organizational Sustainability</li></ul>no00:21:59Melody Vachal - Facing Exhaustion as Non-Profit Leadersfull<![CDATA[Jon Roberts - Why the Best Fundraisers Lead with Curiosity, Not the Close]]>The conversation covers the importance of building relationships before making an ask, the process of building a fundraising team from scratch, prioritizing relationships over revenue, donor engagement and alignment, an entrepreneurial approach to fundraising, and insights and personal reflections from the guest. Key takeaways include the emphasis on relationship before revenue and the need for a frictionless donor experience.

Takeaways

  • Relationship before revenue
  • Frictionless donor experience

Chapters

  • 00:00 Building Relationships and Making the Ask
  • 05:24 Prioritizing Relationships Over Revenue
  • 14:15 Entrepreneurial Approach to Fundraising
]]>50d0296e-a2f0-4c5a-ad39-5857d2e3afa6Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:09:20 GMT<p>The conversation covers the importance of building relationships before making an ask, the process of building a fundraising team from scratch, prioritizing relationships over revenue, donor engagement and alignment, an entrepreneurial approach to fundraising, and insights and personal reflections from the guest. Key takeaways include the emphasis on relationship before revenue and the need for a frictionless donor experience.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Relationship before revenue</li><li>Frictionless donor experience</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Building Relationships and Making the Ask</li><li>05:24 Prioritizing Relationships Over Revenue</li><li>14:15 Entrepreneurial Approach to Fundraising</li></ul>no00:22:56Jon Roberts - Why the Best Fundraisers Lead with Curiosity, Not the Closefull<![CDATA[Scott Swayne - How Human Resources Wisdom Can Transform Nonprofit Fundraising ]]>The conversation delves into the challenges faced by nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationship building and data-driven decision making. It explores topics such as cultivating authentic relationships with board members, developing a culture in a nonprofit, balancing revenue targets and team engagement, aligning organizational objectives and talent strategy, maintaining team morale and donor confidence, operational excellence and donor stewardship, strategies for navigating funding shortfalls, professional advice, personal reflections, daily habits, past failures, and disconnecting and recharging.

Takeaways

  • Authentic Relationship Building
  • Data-Driven Decision Making

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Challenges
  • 06:06 Developing a Culture in a Nonprofit
  • 12:56 Maintaining Team Morale and Donor Confidence
  • 18:10 Operational Excellence and Donor Stewardship
  • 22:54 Strategies for Navigating Funding Shortfalls
  • 30:04 Daily Habit and Past Failure
  • 35:07 Disconnecting and Recharging
]]>dcddc56f-ca35-45ff-ab3e-42a9dfc68f1aMon, 02 Mar 2026 18:57:18 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the challenges faced by nonprofits, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationship building and data-driven decision making. It explores topics such as cultivating authentic relationships with board members, developing a culture in a nonprofit, balancing revenue targets and team engagement, aligning organizational objectives and talent strategy, maintaining team morale and donor confidence, operational excellence and donor stewardship, strategies for navigating funding shortfalls, professional advice, personal reflections, daily habits, past failures, and disconnecting and recharging.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Authentic Relationship Building</li><li>Data-Driven Decision Making</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Challenges</li><li>06:06 Developing a Culture in a Nonprofit</li><li>12:56 Maintaining Team Morale and Donor Confidence</li><li>18:10 Operational Excellence and Donor Stewardship</li><li>22:54 Strategies for Navigating Funding Shortfalls</li><li>30:04 Daily Habit and Past Failure</li><li>35:07 Disconnecting and Recharging</li></ul>no00:34:37Scott Swayne - How Human Resources Wisdom Can Transform Nonprofit Fundraising full<![CDATA[Angela Eifert - Stop Chasing Donors and Start Attracting Them]]>The conversation covers topics such as reactive leadership, reframing the relationship with fundraising, building a culture of trust and innovation, and elevated personal power in times of transition. It delves into the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders and provides insights on how to navigate these challenges with intention and purpose.

Takeaways

  • Reactive Leadership
  • Elevated Personal Power

Chapters

  • 00:00 Reactive Leadership vs. Intentional Leadership
  • 15:43 Building a Culture of Trust and Innovation
]]>5470f339-dfe8-4f52-8a23-59f202acaf62Fri, 27 Feb 2026 22:17:52 GMT<p>The conversation covers topics such as reactive leadership, reframing the relationship with fundraising, building a culture of trust and innovation, and elevated personal power in times of transition. It delves into the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders and provides insights on how to navigate these challenges with intention and purpose.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Reactive Leadership</li><li>Elevated Personal Power</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Reactive Leadership vs. Intentional Leadership</li><li>15:43 Building a Culture of Trust and Innovation</li></ul>no00:29:06Angela Eifert - Stop Chasing Donors and Start Attracting Themfull<![CDATA[Mary Kelly - Your Non-Profit is in Crisis - Advise from a Navy Intel Officer ]]>The conversation covers topics related to crisis leadership, fundraising challenges, and nonprofit management. Mary Kelly shares insights on economic signals affecting nonprofits, the shift in donor psychology, and the importance of treating donors as investors. She also discusses the leadership approach during a crisis, addressing burnout, and the significance of clarity and priorities in nonprofit leadership.

Takeaways

  • Crisis leadership requires skipping over the initial stages of crisis and quickly moving to reality and realignment.
  • Nonprofits need to prioritize clarity, autonomy, and team collaboration to prevent burnout and foster engagement.
  • Leaders should hold a reality and priorities leadership meeting to assess risks, priorities, and immediate actions for the next 90 days.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Crisis Leadership and Fundraising Challenges
  • 06:02 Leadership Approach During a Crisis
  • 11:51 Addressing Burnout and Engagement in Nonprofits
]]>2fa41107-9a6d-443a-862d-9141600914d3Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:33:19 GMT<p>The conversation covers topics related to crisis leadership, fundraising challenges, and nonprofit management. Mary Kelly shares insights on economic signals affecting nonprofits, the shift in donor psychology, and the importance of treating donors as investors. She also discusses the leadership approach during a crisis, addressing burnout, and the significance of clarity and priorities in nonprofit leadership.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Crisis leadership requires skipping over the initial stages of crisis and quickly moving to reality and realignment.</li><li>Nonprofits need to prioritize clarity, autonomy, and team collaboration to prevent burnout and foster engagement.</li><li>Leaders should hold a reality and priorities leadership meeting to assess risks, priorities, and immediate actions for the next 90 days.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Crisis Leadership and Fundraising Challenges</li><li>06:02 Leadership Approach During a Crisis</li><li>11:51 Addressing Burnout and Engagement in Nonprofits</li></ul>no00:23:46Mary Kelly - Your Non-Profit is in Crisis - Advise from a Navy Intel Officer full<![CDATA[Leary Gates - Stop Firefighting and Start Leading]]>The conversation with Larry Gates covers topics related to strategic thinking, leadership empowerment, and the balance between urgency and perspective. Larry shares insights on self-regulation, problem-solving, and the importance of creating margin for strategic thinking. He also discusses the challenges of maintaining passion without being consumed and the significance of distance without disengagement. Additionally, he provides practical advice and shares his daily habits, reflecting on his own experiences and offering valuable insights for leaders.

Takeaways

  • Strategic Thinking
  • Leadership Empowerment

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Larry Gates
  • 05:36 Firefighting and Strategic Thinking
  • 11:52 Balancing Passion and Identity
  • 17:30 Professional Advice and Daily Habits
  • 23:39 Closing and Contact Information
]]>5d33be4e-8e8f-4dda-97e4-79901f69e1a4Fri, 27 Feb 2026 03:32:26 GMT<p>The conversation with Larry Gates covers topics related to strategic thinking, leadership empowerment, and the balance between urgency and perspective. Larry shares insights on self-regulation, problem-solving, and the importance of creating margin for strategic thinking. He also discusses the challenges of maintaining passion without being consumed and the significance of distance without disengagement. Additionally, he provides practical advice and shares his daily habits, reflecting on his own experiences and offering valuable insights for leaders.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Strategic Thinking</li><li>Leadership Empowerment</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Larry Gates</li><li>05:36 Firefighting and Strategic Thinking</li><li>11:52 Balancing Passion and Identity</li><li>17:30 Professional Advice and Daily Habits</li><li>23:39 Closing and Contact Information</li></ul>no00:22:36Leary Gates - Stop Firefighting and Start Leadingfull<![CDATA[Pete Ochs - Viewing Donors as Investors]]>The conversation delves into the importance of viewing donors as investors, balancing economic, social, and spiritual capital, and measuring the impact of nonprofit activities. It also highlights the significance of pursuing significance over worldly success and the need to prioritize donor care and involvement. Additionally, the discussion emphasizes the warning signs of sacrificing long-term economic health and the importance of disconnecting and recharging for nonprofit leaders.

Takeaways

  • Nonprofit leaders should view donors as investors expecting a return
  • Balancing economic, social, and spiritual capital is crucial for nonprofit sustainability
  • Donors are the customers of a nonprofit organization
  • Measuring the impact of nonprofit activities is essential for demonstrating value to donors
  • Nonprofit leaders should prioritize donor care and involvement
  • The pursuit of significance is more important than the pursuit of worldly success

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership and Investment
  • 08:14 Donors as Investors and Demonstrating Value
  • 15:16 Warning Signs of Sacrificing Long-Term Economic Health
  • 21:04 Measuring Success and Pursuing Significance
  • 32:24 Disconnecting and Recharging
]]>df53691d-6da3-47a7-ba25-962cadeb045eThu, 26 Feb 2026 19:50:53 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the importance of viewing donors as investors, balancing economic, social, and spiritual capital, and measuring the impact of nonprofit activities. It also highlights the significance of pursuing significance over worldly success and the need to prioritize donor care and involvement. Additionally, the discussion emphasizes the warning signs of sacrificing long-term economic health and the importance of disconnecting and recharging for nonprofit leaders.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Nonprofit leaders should view donors as investors expecting a return</li><li>Balancing economic, social, and spiritual capital is crucial for nonprofit sustainability</li><li>Donors are the customers of a nonprofit organization</li><li>Measuring the impact of nonprofit activities is essential for demonstrating value to donors</li><li>Nonprofit leaders should prioritize donor care and involvement</li><li>The pursuit of significance is more important than the pursuit of worldly success</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership and Investment</li><li>08:14 Donors as Investors and Demonstrating Value</li><li>15:16 Warning Signs of Sacrificing Long-Term Economic Health</li><li>21:04 Measuring Success and Pursuing Significance</li><li>32:24 Disconnecting and Recharging</li></ul>no00:35:06Pete Ochs - Viewing Donors as Investorsfull<![CDATA[Amy Lindholm - The Power of Trust]]>The conversation covers the challenges of balancing inspiration and metrics in the nonprofit world, building trust, strategic focus, and personal insights from Amy's experiences as a triathlete and professional. Amy shares valuable advice and practical strategies for nonprofit leaders, emphasizing the importance of trust, impact, and prioritization.

Takeaways

  • Trust is built through consistency, genuine listening, and delivering value in day-to-day interactions.
  • Balancing inspiration and metrics involves aligning short-term impact with long-term goals and ensuring that efforts build trust and make a measurable impact.
  • Prioritizing resources for maximum impact involves aligning projects with the mission, assessing impact and effort, and considering the impact on trust.
  • Personal growth and success often stem from overcoming challenges and taking action to make positive changes.
  • Disney World is Amy's favorite place to disconnect and recharge, emphasizing the importance of play and wonder in adult life.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Diverse Experience
  • 07:06 Balancing Inspiration and Metrics
  • 12:29 Navigating Organizational Shifts and Change Fatigue
  • 19:15 Strategic Focus and Prioritization
  • 24:58 Personal Insights and Fast Five
]]>e5df2ccb-4d99-4169-a9dd-9c98ce249567Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:06:44 GMT<p>The conversation covers the challenges of balancing inspiration and metrics in the nonprofit world, building trust, strategic focus, and personal insights from Amy's experiences as a triathlete and professional. Amy shares valuable advice and practical strategies for nonprofit leaders, emphasizing the importance of trust, impact, and prioritization.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Trust is built through consistency, genuine listening, and delivering value in day-to-day interactions.</li><li>Balancing inspiration and metrics involves aligning short-term impact with long-term goals and ensuring that efforts build trust and make a measurable impact.</li><li>Prioritizing resources for maximum impact involves aligning projects with the mission, assessing impact and effort, and considering the impact on trust.</li><li>Personal growth and success often stem from overcoming challenges and taking action to make positive changes.</li><li>Disney World is Amy's favorite place to disconnect and recharge, emphasizing the importance of play and wonder in adult life.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Diverse Experience</li><li>07:06 Balancing Inspiration and Metrics</li><li>12:29 Navigating Organizational Shifts and Change Fatigue</li><li>19:15 Strategic Focus and Prioritization</li><li>24:58 Personal Insights and Fast Five</li></ul>no00:28:26Amy Lindholm - The Power of Trustfull<![CDATA[Jeff Terpstra - How to Close the Door on Losing New Donors]]>The conversation explores the challenges of donor retention, mistakes in donor stewardship, crafting authentic messaging, the power of storytelling, creating a vision for change, multi-channel integration, measuring what matters, maintaining personal connections, balancing authenticity and frequency, learning from failure, and disconnecting and recharging.

Takeaways

  • Craft authentic and genuine messaging to engage donors effectively.
  • Maintain a balance between authenticity and frequency in donor communications.

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Challenge of Donor Retention
  • 06:08 Crafting Authentic Messaging
  • 13:51 Creating a Vision for Change
  • 20:54 Measuring What Matters
  • 27:20 Balancing Authenticity and Frequency
  • 32:35 Disconnecting and Recharging
]]>1dcb459c-5ef2-40dc-a042-890fde6bd71cMon, 16 Feb 2026 21:58:40 GMT<p>The conversation explores the challenges of donor retention, mistakes in donor stewardship, crafting authentic messaging, the power of storytelling, creating a vision for change, multi-channel integration, measuring what matters, maintaining personal connections, balancing authenticity and frequency, learning from failure, and disconnecting and recharging.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Craft authentic and genuine messaging to engage donors effectively.</li><li>Maintain a balance between authenticity and frequency in donor communications.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Challenge of Donor Retention</li><li>06:08 Crafting Authentic Messaging</li><li>13:51 Creating a Vision for Change</li><li>20:54 Measuring What Matters</li><li>27:20 Balancing Authenticity and Frequency</li><li>32:35 Disconnecting and Recharging</li></ul>no00:28:58Jeff Terpstra - How to Close the Door on Losing New Donorsfull<![CDATA[Holly Brown - A process improvement that could transform your organization’s effectiveness]]>The podcast episode features a discussion on process improvement, effective meeting agendas, the buffer concept, implementing EOS, and dealing with operational chaos. The guest shares personal and professional insights, providing valuable advice for leaders in non-profit organizations.

Takeaways

  • Process improvement for focusing on the mission
  • Effective meeting agendas

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest Introduction
  • 07:37 Implementing EOS for CEOs and System Implementation Steps
  • 15:09 Personal and Professional Insights
]]>c680f5f1-09d6-4424-a16c-7f5c2931bf9eFri, 13 Feb 2026 19:40:59 GMT<p>The podcast episode features a discussion on process improvement, effective meeting agendas, the buffer concept, implementing EOS, and dealing with operational chaos. The guest shares personal and professional insights, providing valuable advice for leaders in non-profit organizations.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Process improvement for focusing on the mission</li><li>Effective meeting agendas</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest Introduction</li><li>07:37 Implementing EOS for CEOs and System Implementation Steps</li><li>15:09 Personal and Professional Insights</li></ul>no00:21:42Holly Brown - A process improvement that could transform your organization’s effectivenessfull<![CDATA[Kyle Szucs - The Power of Story Telling]]>The conversation covers the power of storytelling in fundraising, understanding regional advantages, the impact of podcasting on fundraising conversations, collaborative fundraising, personal advice, habits, learning from failure, and disconnecting to recharge.

Takeaways

  • Powerful storytelling is essential in fundraising
  • Understanding regional advantages is crucial in fundraising
  • Podcasting can impact fundraising conversations
  • Collaborative fundraising can overcome a competitive mindset
  • Personal advice and habits can shape professional success
  • Learning from failure is a key to success
  • Disconnecting to recharge is important for personal well-being

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Fundraising and Storytelling
  • 08:54 Understanding Regional Advantage in Fundraising
  • 16:08 Impact of Podcasting on Fundraising Conversations
  • 25:17 Professional Advice and Personal Habits
]]>ac40a0e3-34f6-4b9d-8777-07a693d0af38Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:03:13 GMT<p>The conversation covers the power of storytelling in fundraising, understanding regional advantages, the impact of podcasting on fundraising conversations, collaborative fundraising, personal advice, habits, learning from failure, and disconnecting to recharge.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Powerful storytelling is essential in fundraising</li><li>Understanding regional advantages is crucial in fundraising</li><li>Podcasting can impact fundraising conversations</li><li>Collaborative fundraising can overcome a competitive mindset</li><li>Personal advice and habits can shape professional success</li><li>Learning from failure is a key to success</li><li>Disconnecting to recharge is important for personal well-being</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Fundraising and Storytelling</li><li>08:54 Understanding Regional Advantage in Fundraising</li><li>16:08 Impact of Podcasting on Fundraising Conversations</li><li>25:17 Professional Advice and Personal Habits</li></ul>no00:30:03Kyle Szucs - The Power of Story Tellingfull<![CDATA[Kiersten Hill - The One Marketing Metric That Predicts Fundraising Success]]>The conversation delves into the challenges of fundraising metrics, the role of nonprofit leaders in fundraising, the importance of engagement as a marketing metric, the transformation of nonprofit messaging, reframing marketing as an investment, and turning setbacks into success. Key takeaways include the significance of engagement as a marketing metric, the essential role of storytelling in connecting with donors, and the importance of authenticity and trust in fundraising.

Takeaways

  • Engagement is a critical marketing metric
  • Storytelling is essential for connecting with donors
  • Marketing is an investment in the mission
  • Authenticity and trust are key in fundraising
  • Personal brand is a crucial fundraising strategy

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Challenge of Fundraising Metrics
  • 08:31 Maximizing Impact: The Metric That Matters
  • 15:05 Messaging Transformation for Nonprofits
  • 20:13 Reframing Marketing as an Investment
  • 28:12 Turning Setbacks into Success
]]>9513ed52-936c-4978-90b2-a7fdfdf88548Fri, 13 Feb 2026 02:08:29 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the challenges of fundraising metrics, the role of nonprofit leaders in fundraising, the importance of engagement as a marketing metric, the transformation of nonprofit messaging, reframing marketing as an investment, and turning setbacks into success. Key takeaways include the significance of engagement as a marketing metric, the essential role of storytelling in connecting with donors, and the importance of authenticity and trust in fundraising.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Engagement is a critical marketing metric</li><li>Storytelling is essential for connecting with donors</li><li>Marketing is an investment in the mission</li><li>Authenticity and trust are key in fundraising</li><li>Personal brand is a crucial fundraising strategy</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Challenge of Fundraising Metrics</li><li>08:31 Maximizing Impact: The Metric That Matters</li><li>15:05 Messaging Transformation for Nonprofits</li><li>20:13 Reframing Marketing as an Investment</li><li>28:12 Turning Setbacks into Success</li></ul>no00:29:35Kiersten Hill - The One Marketing Metric That Predicts Fundraising Successfull<![CDATA[Mac Curfman - Leadership Blind Spots That Kill Sustainable Fundraising]]>The conversation explores common leadership blind spots and their impact on nonprofit fundraising. Mac's varied background, transition to training, and unconventional fundraising approach are discussed. The power of storytelling in fundraising, leadership blind spots in nonprofits, and connecting donors to alternative futures are explored. Additionally, resource development, organizational sustainability, and lessons from managing scarce public resources are highlighted.

Takeaways

  • Storytelling for fundraising
  • Leadership blind spots

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Leadership Blind Spots
  • 06:26 Leadership Blind Spots in Nonprofits
  • 11:36 Resource Development and Organizational Sustainability
]]>dca5d260-5bc6-4670-9ef0-6de1a7eb2e45Thu, 12 Feb 2026 23:59:07 GMT<p>The conversation explores common leadership blind spots and their impact on nonprofit fundraising. Mac's varied background, transition to training, and unconventional fundraising approach are discussed. The power of storytelling in fundraising, leadership blind spots in nonprofits, and connecting donors to alternative futures are explored. Additionally, resource development, organizational sustainability, and lessons from managing scarce public resources are highlighted.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Storytelling for fundraising</li><li>Leadership blind spots</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Leadership Blind Spots</li><li>06:26 Leadership Blind Spots in Nonprofits</li><li>11:36 Resource Development and Organizational Sustainability</li></ul>no00:20:28Mac Curfman - Leadership Blind Spots That Kill Sustainable Fundraisingfull<![CDATA[Tricia Collier Richardson - Nonprofit CEO & Leadership Coach]]>The conversation covers the early warning signs of nonprofit leader burnout, the importance of managing relationships with boards, funders, and public agencies, the impact of asking the right questions, and the need for creating thinking time for clarity and reflection. Tricia Richardson shares insights on recognizing warning signs, building relationships, the power of questions, and the importance of margin and thinking time for leaders.

Takeaways

  • Early warning signs
  • Building relationships
  • Importance of margin
  • The power of questions
  • Creating thinking time

Chapters

  • 00:00 Creating Thinking Time for Clarity and Reflection
]]>9772f2d0-f1e5-4011-99ab-2c2eb109d0acThu, 12 Feb 2026 20:26:42 GMT<p>The conversation covers the early warning signs of nonprofit leader burnout, the importance of managing relationships with boards, funders, and public agencies, the impact of asking the right questions, and the need for creating thinking time for clarity and reflection. Tricia Richardson shares insights on recognizing warning signs, building relationships, the power of questions, and the importance of margin and thinking time for leaders.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Early warning signs</li><li>Building relationships</li><li>Importance of margin</li><li>The power of questions</li><li>Creating thinking time</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Creating Thinking Time for Clarity and Reflection</li></ul>no00:23:44Tricia Collier Richardson - Nonprofit CEO & Leadership Coachfull<![CDATA[Dr. Brandon Schmidly - VP for Advancement at Crown College]]>Dr. Brandon Schmidley, Vice President for Advancement at Crown College, shares his journey from a small town in Missouri to higher education and fundraising. His background in philosophy has equipped him to navigate the ambiguity and analytical aspects of fundraising. He emphasizes the importance of critique and learning from failures, and finds recharging in family connections.

Takeaways

  • Diverse Backgrounds in Advancement
  • Embracing Critique and Learning from Failures
  • Recharging Through Family Connections

Chapters

  • 00:00 Learning from Failures and Recharging
]]>1c700de3-a7c2-412f-a2f8-25849e7b7a13Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:52:19 GMT<p>Dr. Brandon Schmidley, Vice President for Advancement at Crown College, shares his journey from a small town in Missouri to higher education and fundraising. His background in philosophy has equipped him to navigate the ambiguity and analytical aspects of fundraising. He emphasizes the importance of critique and learning from failures, and finds recharging in family connections.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Diverse Backgrounds in Advancement</li><li>Embracing Critique and Learning from Failures</li><li>Recharging Through Family Connections</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Learning from Failures and Recharging</li></ul>no00:34:58Dr. Brandon Schmidly - VP for Advancement at Crown Collegefull<![CDATA[Tyler Van Eps - National Christian Foundation]]>The conversation covers the introduction and background of Tyler Van Epps, the mission of the National Christian Foundation, the importance of creating value before asking, the relationship between confidence and giving, working with donors and appreciated assets, and personal insights and advice. The key takeaways include the importance of providing value before asking and the impact of confidence on driving giving.

Takeaways

  • Value Before Asking
  • Confidence Drives Giving

Chapters

  • 00:00 Personal Insights and Advice
]]>4f94303b-3a52-4985-a166-577282cf5d86Mon, 09 Feb 2026 21:49:55 GMT<p>The conversation covers the introduction and background of Tyler Van Epps, the mission of the National Christian Foundation, the importance of creating value before asking, the relationship between confidence and giving, working with donors and appreciated assets, and personal insights and advice. The key takeaways include the importance of providing value before asking and the impact of confidence on driving giving.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Value Before Asking</li><li>Confidence Drives Giving</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Personal Insights and Advice</li></ul>no00:22:48Tyler Van Eps - National Christian Foundationfull<![CDATA[From Donors to Disciples: A Conversation on Faith-Based Fundraising]]>The conversation delves into the world of nonprofit fundraising, emphasizing the importance of relationships in donor engagement and the significance of involving donors in the mission. It explores effective communication strategies, personal growth through failure, and the value of relaxation and recharging for nonprofit professionals.

Takeaways

  • Relationships are key to donor engagement
  • Engaging donors in the mission leads to deeper involvement

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Fundraising
  • 10:45 Moving Beyond Financial Support
  • 18:06 Effective Communication with Donors
  • 24:03 Learning from Failure and Personal Growth
]]>7d31a07c-a897-4f05-8fbe-5221e2bfff35Sat, 07 Feb 2026 00:56:49 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the world of nonprofit fundraising, emphasizing the importance of relationships in donor engagement and the significance of involving donors in the mission. It explores effective communication strategies, personal growth through failure, and the value of relaxation and recharging for nonprofit professionals.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Relationships are key to donor engagement</li><li>Engaging donors in the mission leads to deeper involvement</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Nonprofit Fundraising</li><li>10:45 Moving Beyond Financial Support</li><li>18:06 Effective Communication with Donors</li><li>24:03 Learning from Failure and Personal Growth</li></ul>no00:26:05From Donors to Disciples: A Conversation on Faith-Based Fundraisingfull<![CDATA[Mandy Pearce - Strategic Planning for Non-Profits]]>The podcast episode features Mandy Pearce, the owner of Funding for Good, discussing her experience in the nonprofit sector and the challenges faced by nonprofit consultants. The conversation covers topics such as mindset around money, strategic planning for nonprofits, the consulting business model, learning from failure, and the value of consultants in the nonprofit sector.

Takeaways

  • Mindset around money
  • Strategic planning for nonprofits
  • Consulting business model
  • Learning from failure
  • Value of consultants

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Funding Your Future Now Podcast
  • 06:20 Setting Realistic Goals for Nonprofits
  • 14:30 Impact of Fundraising Consultancy on Nonprofits
]]>312929fb-3442-432c-8730-85c930f9e048Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:58:19 GMT<p>The podcast episode features Mandy Pearce, the owner of Funding for Good, discussing her experience in the nonprofit sector and the challenges faced by nonprofit consultants. The conversation covers topics such as mindset around money, strategic planning for nonprofits, the consulting business model, learning from failure, and the value of consultants in the nonprofit sector.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Mindset around money</li><li>Strategic planning for nonprofits</li><li>Consulting business model</li><li>Learning from failure</li><li>Value of consultants</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Funding Your Future Now Podcast</li><li>06:20 Setting Realistic Goals for Nonprofits</li><li>14:30 Impact of Fundraising Consultancy on Nonprofits</li></ul>no00:21:49Mandy Pearce - Strategic Planning for Non-Profitsfull<![CDATA[Chris McClure on Creating a Heathly Team Culture]]>The conversation explores the importance of clarity in communication, especially in the context of fundraising and nonprofit leadership. It delves into the power of clear messaging to attract donors, the process of distilling a complex mission into an authentic and irresistible message, and the significance of inspiring confidence and investments. Additionally, it discusses the rebuilding of fundraising teams and culture to create momentum and foster a healthy and vibrant environment.

Takeaways

  • Clarity is key in effectively communicating a message.
  • Understanding donor goals and building strong relationships are crucial for fundraising success.

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Power of Clarity in Communication
  • 08:33 Distilling a Complex Mission into an Authentic Message
  • 14:42 Inspiring Confidence and Investments
  • 20:48 Rebuilding Fundraising Team and Culture
]]>166426cc-0971-42ac-b120-5b4540056bc8Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:25:36 GMT<p>The conversation explores the importance of clarity in communication, especially in the context of fundraising and nonprofit leadership. It delves into the power of clear messaging to attract donors, the process of distilling a complex mission into an authentic and irresistible message, and the significance of inspiring confidence and investments. Additionally, it discusses the rebuilding of fundraising teams and culture to create momentum and foster a healthy and vibrant environment.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Clarity is key in effectively communicating a message.</li><li>Understanding donor goals and building strong relationships are crucial for fundraising success.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Power of Clarity in Communication</li><li>08:33 Distilling a Complex Mission into an Authentic Message</li><li>14:42 Inspiring Confidence and Investments</li><li>20:48 Rebuilding Fundraising Team and Culture</li></ul>no00:29:50Chris McClure on Creating a Heathly Team Culturefull<![CDATA[Holly Misener speaks on non-profit success]]>The conversation explores the intersection of faith, leadership, and business, focusing on aligning purpose with God's calling, transforming organizational culture, sustainable leadership practices, and fundraising as a kingdom activity.

Takeaways

  • Purpose Alignment
  • Organizational Culture Transformation
  • Sustainable Leadership Practices
  • Fundraising as Kingdom Activity

Chapters

  • 00:00 Aligning Purpose with God's Calling
  • 06:11 Sustainable Leadership Practices
]]>4940deb5-4e2c-47db-b82e-eb6871345c1eWed, 04 Feb 2026 00:30:58 GMT<p>The conversation explores the intersection of faith, leadership, and business, focusing on aligning purpose with God's calling, transforming organizational culture, sustainable leadership practices, and fundraising as a kingdom activity.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Purpose Alignment</li><li>Organizational Culture Transformation</li><li>Sustainable Leadership Practices</li><li>Fundraising as Kingdom Activity</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Aligning Purpose with God's Calling</li><li>06:11 Sustainable Leadership Practices</li></ul>no00:22:16Holly Misener speaks on non-profit successfull<![CDATA[Brianna Pyka - Brand Strategy and Fundraising]]>The conversation delves into the intersection of brand and fundraising strategy, the challenges of balancing operational needs with major donors, navigating transformational gifts, strategies for exhausted major donor connections, maintaining mission focus with transformational gifts, and differentiating nonprofit organizations. Additionally, insightful professional and personal advice is shared, providing valuable takeaways for listeners.

Takeaways

  • Brand and fundraising strategy
  • Balancing operational needs with major donors
  • Navigating transformational gifts
  • Differentiating nonprofit organizations

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Brand and Fundraising Strategy
  • 08:34 Strategies for Exhausted Major Donor Connections
  • 14:00 Maintaining Mission Focus with Transformational Gifts
  • 23:04 Insightful Professional and Personal Advice
]]>ce2c7b43-a8cb-403e-be9a-81ce5e56e472Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:01:51 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the intersection of brand and fundraising strategy, the challenges of balancing operational needs with major donors, navigating transformational gifts, strategies for exhausted major donor connections, maintaining mission focus with transformational gifts, and differentiating nonprofit organizations. Additionally, insightful professional and personal advice is shared, providing valuable takeaways for listeners.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Brand and fundraising strategy</li><li>Balancing operational needs with major donors</li><li>Navigating transformational gifts</li><li>Differentiating nonprofit organizations</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Brand and Fundraising Strategy</li><li>08:34 Strategies for Exhausted Major Donor Connections</li><li>14:00 Maintaining Mission Focus with Transformational Gifts</li><li>23:04 Insightful Professional and Personal Advice</li></ul>no00:27:21Brianna Pyka - Brand Strategy and Fundraisingfull<![CDATA[Steve Sonderman - a culture of authentic community]]>The conversation with Steve Sonderman delves into the importance of authentic community, intentional pathways for engagement, and the multiplication mindset for sustainable growth. Steve shares insights on developing an intentional plan for discipleship, creating authentic community, and addressing challenges faced by nonprofits. He also reflects on personal advice and experiences.

Takeaways

  • Authentic community vs. transactional relationships
  • Multiplication mindset for sustainable growth

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Steve Sonderman
  • 06:13 Building Authentic Community vs. Transactional Relationships
  • 19:16 Multiplication Mindset for Sustainable Growth
  • 32:07 Challenges Faced by Nonprofits
]]>20f3b04c-b99b-449d-8cf8-944bd6ad5815Fri, 30 Jan 2026 22:47:35 GMT<p>The conversation with Steve Sonderman delves into the importance of authentic community, intentional pathways for engagement, and the multiplication mindset for sustainable growth. Steve shares insights on developing an intentional plan for discipleship, creating authentic community, and addressing challenges faced by nonprofits. He also reflects on personal advice and experiences.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Authentic community vs. transactional relationships</li><li>Multiplication mindset for sustainable growth</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Steve Sonderman</li><li>06:13 Building Authentic Community vs. Transactional Relationships</li><li>19:16 Multiplication Mindset for Sustainable Growth</li><li>32:07 Challenges Faced by Nonprofits</li></ul>no00:39:22Steve Sonderman - a culture of authentic communityfull<![CDATA[Jay Link - Conversation after 35 years as a fundraising professional]]>The conversation covers Jay Link's journey from preacher to fundraiser, his experience in financial services, and his transition to the nonprofit world. It delves into the principles of kingdom fundraising and the personal transformation required for fundraisers. It also explores the shift in donor conversations and the impact of embracing the four cornerstones of kingdom fundraising. The conversation delves into the approach of ministry and stewardship planning, emphasizing the importance of giving and the impact of effective giving strategies. It also explores the shift from a financial focus to a spiritual and emotional approach in fundraising and donor engagement.

Takeaways

  • Kingdom fundraising principles
  • Personal transformation for fundraisers
  • Shift in donor conversations Effective giving strategies
  • Shift from financial focus to spiritual and emotional approach

Chapters

  • 00:00 Journey to Fundraising
  • 12:55 The Four Cornerstones
  • 22:15 Personal Transformation for Fundraisers
  • 28:00 Changing the Conversation on Giving and Stewardship
  • 35:01 Ministry vs. Fundraising
]]>d70d1f5a-1e97-4c88-aa46-58f42a27dcd6Fri, 30 Jan 2026 21:25:28 GMT<p>The conversation covers Jay Link's journey from preacher to fundraiser, his experience in financial services, and his transition to the nonprofit world. It delves into the principles of kingdom fundraising and the personal transformation required for fundraisers. It also explores the shift in donor conversations and the impact of embracing the four cornerstones of kingdom fundraising. The conversation delves into the approach of ministry and stewardship planning, emphasizing the importance of giving and the impact of effective giving strategies. It also explores the shift from a financial focus to a spiritual and emotional approach in fundraising and donor engagement.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Kingdom fundraising principles</li><li>Personal transformation for fundraisers</li><li>Shift in donor conversations Effective giving strategies</li><li>Shift from financial focus to spiritual and emotional approach</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Journey to Fundraising</li><li>12:55 The Four Cornerstones</li><li>22:15 Personal Transformation for Fundraisers</li><li>28:00 Changing the Conversation on Giving and Stewardship</li><li>35:01 Ministry vs. Fundraising</li></ul>no00:42:53Jay Link - Conversation after 35 years as a fundraising professionalfull<![CDATA[Tess Vergara - Soul Powered Executive Coach]]>The conversation delves into the themes of authenticity, emotional capacity, integrated leadership, and wholeness. It explores the challenges of leadership, authenticity in high-stakes meetings, releasing inherited narratives, emotional resilience, embodied action, and advice for nonprofit executives. The discussion also covers professional advice, personal growth habits, advice to the 20-year-old self, learning from failure, and finding inner rejuvenation.

Takeaways

  • Authenticity Over Performance
  • Emotional Capacity and Resilience
  • Integrated Leadership and Wholeness

Chapters

  • 00:00 Facing Real Challenges
  • 07:19 Releasing Inherited Narratives
  • 18:46 Embodied Action vs. Transactional Hustle
  • 24:31 Advice for Nonprofit Executives
  • 29:50 Failure Setting Up for Success
]]>24541c1c-e137-49ff-8a65-fd1ea798e7c6Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:26:53 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the themes of authenticity, emotional capacity, integrated leadership, and wholeness. It explores the challenges of leadership, authenticity in high-stakes meetings, releasing inherited narratives, emotional resilience, embodied action, and advice for nonprofit executives. The discussion also covers professional advice, personal growth habits, advice to the 20-year-old self, learning from failure, and finding inner rejuvenation.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Authenticity Over Performance</li><li>Emotional Capacity and Resilience</li><li>Integrated Leadership and Wholeness</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Facing Real Challenges</li><li>07:19 Releasing Inherited Narratives</li><li>18:46 Embodied Action vs. Transactional Hustle</li><li>24:31 Advice for Nonprofit Executives</li><li>29:50 Failure Setting Up for Success</li></ul>no00:36:37Tess Vergara - Soul Powered Executive Coachfull<![CDATA[Bill Goodwin - President Priority Living]]>The podcast episode features a conversation with Bill Goodwin, author of 'Priority Living, Seven Pillars to Make Your Life Count.' Bill shares insights on living with intentionality, creating margin, and distinguishing between goals and growth. He also discusses the power of the calendar, finding rhythm, and the importance of professional advice and daily habits. Additionally, he reflects on lessons from failure and the need for recalibration in life.

Takeaways

  • Living with intentionality
  • Clarity precedes peace

Chapters

  • 00:00 Lessons from Failure and Recalibration
]]>98d6f468-7817-4f5e-b0b0-3b3c6ddf1e97Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:57:00 GMT<p>The podcast episode features a conversation with Bill Goodwin, author of 'Priority Living, Seven Pillars to Make Your Life Count.' Bill shares insights on living with intentionality, creating margin, and distinguishing between goals and growth. He also discusses the power of the calendar, finding rhythm, and the importance of professional advice and daily habits. Additionally, he reflects on lessons from failure and the need for recalibration in life.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Living with intentionality</li><li>Clarity precedes peace</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Lessons from Failure and Recalibration</li></ul>no00:28:46Bill Goodwin - President Priority Livingfull<![CDATA[Garth Warren - President of Barnabas Resources]]>The conversation covers the strategic guidance provided to nonprofits, the importance of clarity in organizational vision and mission, the process of building compelling case statements for fundraising, and the management of donor relationships and expectations. It also delves into the significance of setting deadlines and trusting the outcome in fundraising efforts. The conversation delves into the strategies for building relationships with donors, establishing effective communication, engaging donors beyond annual reports, fundraising and donor engagement, and personal and professional insights. The key takeaways include the importance of building relationships and effective communication in donor engagement.

Takeaways

  • Strategic guidance for nonprofits
  • Importance of clarity in organizational vision and mission
  • Building compelling case statements for fundraising
  • Managing donor relationships and expectations Building Relationships
  • Effective Communication

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Podcast
  • 07:15 Managing Donor Expectations
  • 16:02 Setting Deadlines and Trusting the Outcome
  • 21:14 Establishing Effective Communication
  • 28:00 Personal and Professional Insights
]]>6b62186c-4b61-42f1-bdd7-30850b05db04Thu, 29 Jan 2026 02:28:17 GMT<p>The conversation covers the strategic guidance provided to nonprofits, the importance of clarity in organizational vision and mission, the process of building compelling case statements for fundraising, and the management of donor relationships and expectations. It also delves into the significance of setting deadlines and trusting the outcome in fundraising efforts. The conversation delves into the strategies for building relationships with donors, establishing effective communication, engaging donors beyond annual reports, fundraising and donor engagement, and personal and professional insights. The key takeaways include the importance of building relationships and effective communication in donor engagement.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Strategic guidance for nonprofits</li><li>Importance of clarity in organizational vision and mission</li><li>Building compelling case statements for fundraising</li><li>Managing donor relationships and expectations Building Relationships</li><li>Effective Communication</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Funding the Future Podcast</li><li>07:15 Managing Donor Expectations</li><li>16:02 Setting Deadlines and Trusting the Outcome</li><li>21:14 Establishing Effective Communication</li><li>28:00 Personal and Professional Insights</li></ul>no00:33:27Garth Warren - President of Barnabas Resourcesfull<![CDATA[Ian Vickers - President of Global Partners in Hope]]>The conversation delves into the work of Global Partners in HOPE, focusing on medical care and impact in West Africa, as well as the importance of building trust and deepening donor relationships. It explores the understanding of donor interests, engaging long-term donors, and personalized donor communication, emphasizing the significance of impactful donor relationships and building trust. The conversation covers donor engagement strategies, including the use of hard print materials and multi-channel communication. It also delves into donor follow-up and impact communication, building relationships, personal habits, reflections on failure, and recharging. The discussion provides valuable insights into connecting with donors and maintaining meaningful relationships.

Takeaways

  • Building Trust
  • Impactful Donor Relationships Connecting with donors through hard print materials
  • Utilizing multi-channel communication for donor engagement

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Global Partners in HOPE
  • 07:37 Building Trust with Donors
  • 13:25 Engaging Long-Term Donors
  • 32:13 Recharging and Connecting with the Audience
]]>0584e6e9-2ef6-4223-9cd5-e9398f0a31e3Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:04:05 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the work of Global Partners in HOPE, focusing on medical care and impact in West Africa, as well as the importance of building trust and deepening donor relationships. It explores the understanding of donor interests, engaging long-term donors, and personalized donor communication, emphasizing the significance of impactful donor relationships and building trust. The conversation covers donor engagement strategies, including the use of hard print materials and multi-channel communication. It also delves into donor follow-up and impact communication, building relationships, personal habits, reflections on failure, and recharging. The discussion provides valuable insights into connecting with donors and maintaining meaningful relationships.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Building Trust</li><li>Impactful Donor Relationships Connecting with donors through hard print materials</li><li>Utilizing multi-channel communication for donor engagement</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction to Global Partners in HOPE</li><li>07:37 Building Trust with Donors</li><li>13:25 Engaging Long-Term Donors</li><li>32:13 Recharging and Connecting with the Audience</li></ul>no00:31:45Ian Vickers - President of Global Partners in Hopefull