

EP 38: Beyond the Ask: Why Donor Lifetime Value Should Shape Your Strategy with John Mark Vanderpool
In this data-packed episode of The Responsive Lab, Scott Holthaus and Carly Berna sit down with John Mark Vanderpool, co-founder of Social Impact Solutions, to talk all things Donor Lifetime Value (LTV).
John Mark brings a unique perspective — combining nonprofit experience, impact evaluation, and business acumen — to help leaders rethink their fundraising strategy. In the episode, you’ll explore how understanding and leveraging donor LTV can completely shift your acquisition strategy, communications, and ultimately, your impact.
John Mark shares:
- Why LTV isn’t just for startups anymore
- Balancing acquisition cost and donor value
- The case for quality over quantity in donor portfolios
- How to calculate and apply long-term net metrics
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Real examples of using social impact data to engage ideal donors
Plus, you’ll hear a powerful story of a nonprofit that drove 7-figure revenue through clever acquisition strategy without spending a dime on fundraising.
📌 Explore more from Social Impact Solutions at https://www.socialimpactsolutions.com/
📌 Take the free fundraising quiz at https://www.fundraisingquiz.org/
Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist