The Build Good Fundraising Podcast #111: Live from Summit: Asking without fear: how to stop worrying and learn to love the ask, with Michael Mitchell
Aug 27, 2025
Michael Mitchell, Director of Advancement at Feed the Children and a seasoned fundraising coach, breaks down the art of asking for donations without fear. He discusses common fears fundraisers face, using the iceberg metaphor to highlight underlying beliefs. Michael introduces the XYZ method for crafting clear and effective asks and emphasizes the importance of staying silent after making a request. He encourages listeners to view asking as a joyful invitation and helps them tackle their personal 'money baggage,' revealing that courage in asking can lead to greater generosity.
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Asking Is Universally Hard
- Everyone struggles with asking, regardless of experience level.
- Lack of role models, practice, and faulty beliefs explain why asking feels hard.
Name Fear, Pause, Then Reassess
- Name and normalize your fear, then pause and take a breath before reacting.
- Ask whether you're in danger or just uncomfortable and whether your why is bigger than your fear.
Beliefs Shape Asking Behavior
- Your beliefs about generosity and yourself shape how you ask.
- Framing giving as joyful and remembering you belong at the table reduces shame and increases confidence.