The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast

What does it really mean to be a hero in fundraising?After nearly 30 years working alongside major gift officers, executive directors, and nonprofit leaders, I've learned this: our sector's greatest challenges—poverty, injustice, inequality—are simply too big for any one person to solve alone.That's why this week feels so special. I'm celebrating the official release of my new book, Calling All Heroes: Combining the Best of Donor-Centered and Community-Centered Fundraising for Greater Impact, with a brand-new podcast episode that dives deep into human-centered fundraising—where donor-centered and community-centered approaches finally unite.In this episode, I share the story behind the book, including my transformative work with The Children's Center in Detroit (where we tripled philanthropic revenue while centering dignity and partnership), plus practical strategies you can implement immediately to:Blend fundraising models without losing your missionBuild diverse, collaborative teams that reflect your communityNavigate power imbalances with courage and transparencyReduce burnout while increasing impactHere's the question I kept wrestling with before writing this book: How can we honor both the generosity of our donors AND the wisdom of our communities, bringing every voice to the table without compromising what matters most?If you've ever felt torn between fundraising philosophies, exhausted by the pressure to "go it alone," or frustrated by division in our sector, this episode is for you.Listen now and discover why the future of fundraising belongs to all of us, side by side. Then share it with your team, your board, and anyone who believes in transforming generosity into lasting impact.Let's reclaim what it means to be everyday heroes. Together. 🚀Today isn’t just a milestone, it’s the launchpad. If “Calling All Heroes” resonates with your experience, your hopes, and your frustrations, I invite you to grab your copy right now at https://www.callingallheroesbook.com/. Need extra copies for your team, chapter, or conference? Ordering in bulk—at a discount of course—is simple at the same link.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Feeling drives generosity, not just facts! Immersive donor experiences—from water walks to blindfolded dinners—are transforming fundraising. Examples like Charity: Water's labs and MADD's simulations show how sensory engagement can create empathy. Explore five psychological principles that enhance these experiences, making them memorable. Learn practical steps to implement immersion while deepening donor connections, proving that authenticity and empathy can go hand in hand in fundraising efforts.

What if I told you the most powerful major gift fundraising seminar of your life could happen in your favorite chair, no travel required? I just experienced it firsthand, livestreamed for three days, and let me tell you, the connections and insights our faculty delivered in a virtual setting blew me away. I’ll never forget one moment: watching seasoned major gift fundraisers build new relationships and spark those “aha!” revelations during our virtual one-on-one “park bench” sessions. It made me realize that sometimes, the most meaningful growth happens when we step outside the expected.In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I’m sharing my reflection from our recent “Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar.” Plus, why you might want to rethink what’s possible for YOUR major gifts program.Listen in and pass it on to a colleague who needs some inspiration! As we close, I’m thrilled to invite you to our next three-day virtual Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar on January 27–29. Mark your calendar, rally your development team, and reserve your spot at modernicg.com. The opportunity to transform your major gift fundraising starts here.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Are you chasing numbers or building relationships?Most fundraisers are stuck on the hamster wheel.Chasing donors. Juggling events. Burning out.But what if the real breakthrough comes from slowing down?Here’s the playbook for human-centered, relationship-first fundraising:Schedule ONE meaningful conversation this week.→ Ask, “What inspired you to support us?”→ Listen—no agenda.Map supporters by engagement TYPE, not just dollar size.→ Who shows up at events?→ Who shares your content?→ Who asks tough questions?Be transparent about your team capacity.→ “It’s just me, but I’m committed to getting this right with you.”→ People value authenticity.Audit your outreach for inclusivity.→ Who’s missing from your newsletters?→ Are your stories and photos truly diverse?→ Try translating content or inviting others to share their voice.Focus on quality over quantity.→ 5 heartfelt connections are worth more than 50 mass emails.Use stories, not just stats.→ Share one real example of impact (and don’t be afraid to mention setbacks).TL;DR:Transformational fundraising happens when you focus on real relationships, not just transactions.Pre-order your copy of my new book, "Calling All Heroes: Combining the Best of Donor-Centered and Community-Centered Fundraising for Greater Impact.”→ https://www.callingallheroesbook.com/And to make it worth your while: When you pre-order your copy of Calling All Heroes at the link in the show notes and submit your receipt or order number, you’ll receive a special invitation to my free, 90-minute training session: “How to Implement Human-Centered Fundraising in Your Organization.” It’s my way of saying thank you for walking with me on this journey.And if you want extra copies for your team, chapter or an upcoming conference, we offer special discounts on bulk orders. Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

This one has been simmering inside me for months.It’s about the language we use in the nonprofit sector—and why we need to be more mindful of it.Specifically, I’m making a plea to eliminate phrases like “tips and tricks” when we talk about engaging donors.Because giving is not a “trick.” Donors are not targets. And we are not magicians trying to perform sleight of hand to win gifts.When we say things like “tips and tricks” or “low-hanging fruit” in fundraising, we might think we’re being harmless, maybe even clever.But in reality, we’re reinforcing a belief system that positions fundraising as transactional, manipulative, or worse, dishonest.That’s why in this episode, I take us on a journey into the power of language in fundraising, how it shapes donor relationships, and how it shapes us.Listen in and let’s transform our language (and our sector!) together.Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Only 45% of first-time major donors come back.Let that sink in.For years, I believed winning that first major gift was the hardest part—until I realized the real challenge (and transformation) is turning new donors into lifelong champions.In this episode, I share personal stories, the tools I use, and proven strategies for moving beyond transactional gifts to genuine partnership.If you could double your donor retention this year, what would it mean for your mission?→ Take a listen.Share with your team, and let’s transform fundraising—together.Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Feeling stuck between fundraising approaches? Break down the silos!I’ve seen the fundraising divide firsthand—and I believe there’s a better way. I call it human-centered fundraising.I recently heard a longtime donor say, “I’m tired of being just a checkbook. I want to be part of something bigger.” I’ve felt that tension, too.Donor fatigue is real—but connection changes everything.Let’s stop choosing sides and start building bridges.Want to learn how human-centered fundraising could transform your mission?Tune in to this episode and share it with a colleague who’s ready to reimagine fundraising for greater impact.Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Your self-worth ≠ your last “no” That’s what Ken Miller told me during a conversation that left me rethinking how we lead, fundraise, and show up for everyone—not just donors. From the heights of Ivy League success to the lows of prison, Ken’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, dignity, and knowing your worth.His lessons on boundaries, self-esteem, and leading with love are ones every fundraiser, ED, and board member needs to hear. What would change in your work if you truly separated your worth from your results?Listen to this powerful episode and then share it with a colleague or board member who needs inspiration today.Guest: Ken Miller, President, Denali FSP Fundraising ConsultantsResources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.Join our Three-Day "Major Gifts Fundraising Program" Seminar: Learn more and reserve your spot today!Pre-order my book: Calling All Heroes: Combining the Best of Donor-Centered and Community-Centered Fundraising for Greater Impact

Why do we still treat donors like royalty and our teams like afterthoughts?After years in fundraising, I’ve seen how trust, power dynamics, and deep listening can make (or break) our impact. In my latest conversation with sector leader Martha Schumacher, we dig into trust-based philanthropy, standing firm against mission creep, and why real integrity sometimes means saying “no, thank you”—even to transformational gifts.Martha’s stories will stir your soul and challenge the way you lead. Are we centering our people and our missions, or are we sacrificing them for comfort and tradition?Ready to see what a healthier, more courageous sector could look like?Listen now at or wherever you get your podcasts!ps – Share this episode with team members and board colleagues who could use a dose of renewal and inspiration!Guest: Martha Schumacher, President, Hazen and HILTResources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Burned out by fundraising debates?I know how exhausting it feels when donor-centered vs. community-centered fundraising pulls us apart—while donor fatigue and burnout drag us down. But what if there’s a more human, powerful way forward?In this episode, I share how I learned to build bridges, not barriers, and saw philanthropy—and team morale—soar in the process.What would your organization look like if everyone—donors, staff, and community—felt like a hero in your story?Take a listen, then share it with someone else who believes unity is the real superpower.Together, we can transform fundraising—and the world.Guest: Tammy ZonkerResources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.Review my show: Please review my show. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way. Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.