Nonprofit Leadership Podcast Can AI Enhance Rather Than Replace Empathy?
In this compelling episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, host Rob Harter sits down with Sam Fankuchen, the CEO and founder of Golden, a volunteer and donor engagement platform revolutionizing the way nonprofits operate. Sam shares how a deeply personal brush with tragedy on 9/11 catalyzed his mission to make volunteering more accessible and meaningful for everyone. Drawing on his extensive experience and graduate research, Sam explains how Golden helps nonprofits turn one-time volunteers into lifelong donors through cutting-edge technology, automation, and ethical AI practices.
This episode dives deep into the intersection of civic tech, volunteerism, and AI—raising the timely question: Can technology actually deepen empathy and human connection in the nonprofit space? Sam offers powerful insights into how technology can be used not to replace people, but to augment the good work nonprofits are already doing—especially in high-stakes situations like disaster relief. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, development officer, or someone curious about the future of social impact, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.
Key Topics Include:
- Sam Fankuchen’s moving personal story that led to the founding of Golden
- How Golden uses AI and analytics to convert volunteers into donors
- The importance of storytelling and human-centered design in volunteer programs
- Why disaster relief offers valuable lessons for everyday nonprofit operations
- The ethical considerations and real-world applications of AI in the nonprofit sector
- The importance of cross-sector collaboration between nonprofits, government, and private sector
- How nonprofits can adopt tech tools to reduce administrative burden and boost impact
Mentioned in This Episode:
- Golden: https://www.goldenvolunteer.com
- Golden donates $500M in Volunteer Management Software: Read here
This Episode is Sponsored By:
- DonorBox: Helping you help others with the best donation forms in the business
Links to Resources:
- Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com
- Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel
- Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com
- Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com
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