If you’re looking to raise major gifts without working till 10 PM every night, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down exactly how my client raised $10.2 million in unrestricted revenue from individuals in just 12 months without burnout.

This episode is especially for you if you already have individual donors (including monthly donors and board members who give personally or through their companies). Major gifts are a priority for your nonprofit’s revenue strategy. You have at least one person helping with fundraising, even if they’re just getting started. You want to become a stronger leader, a better fundraiser, and honestly a better human while doing this work.

But if you’re just looking for strategy and tactics without personal growth? This might not be your jam. There are plenty of people who can give you just the strategy, but I focus on both professional and personal development. If that sounds good to you, keep listening!

What We Cover in This Episode:

The biggest mindset shifts my clients make to go from overwhelmed to effective.
The common mistake of thinking you need to “do more” to raise more money - and what actually works instead.
Why hiring consultants who add busy work won’t move the needle.
How understanding wealth, non-liquid assets, and donor motivations leads to bigger gifts.
The three key pillars that drive fundraising success: Strategy, Skills, and Self.
How my coaching helps fundraisers double their revenue without doubling their workload.

I got into fundraising 16 years ago because I needed a job. I had no experience, but someone took a chance on me and trained me. I learned the ropes the hard way - working way too much for way too little, losing sleep, my hair falling out. I thought success meant doing everything and burning myself out in the process.

Fast forward to today: I’ve raised millions of dollars for top organizations, worked with some of the best mentors in the industry, and now I teach nonprofit leaders how to do the same without the burnout.

Success comes down to three key factors. First, having the right strategy where you spend your time matters. We start by analyzing your calendar, optimizing your time management, and creating a plan that actually works. Second, developing the right skills is essential. This includes learning how to have powerful donor conversations, crafting compelling messaging, and mastering negotiation so you stop settling for small gifts. Finally, success depends on you, your mindset, leadership, and personal growth. Fundraising isn’t just about tactics; it’s about how you show up and lead with confidence.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training.

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

Ep. 31: 'The Watch'