

The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast
Tammy Zonker
Welcome to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast. I'm your host, Tammy Zonker, and I'm thrilled you're here.
I've spent nearly three decades specializing in major gifts. I’ve seen how major gifts often form the backbone of an organization’s financial stability, and yet, I know many of us find this area particularly challenging. Time and again, I’ve been approached by fundraisers and nonprofit leaders eager to establish or supercharge their major gift programs. It’s become crystal clear that there’s a growing hunger for training and expertise in this area.
I’ve had the incredible privilege of working with nonprofits from all around the world helping organizations collectively raise nearly one billion dollars. During this time, I’ve developed strategies and tools that have consistently helped organizations transition their mid-level donors into major donors through meaningful engagement. It’s a process that, when done consistently, can truly catapult an organization’s major gift fundraising to the next level.
Whether you’re a seasoned major gift officer looking to refine your approach, a development director aiming to build a powerhouse program, an executive director looking to scale your organization’s capacity for transformational giving, or a board member seeking to understand the transformative potential of major gifts, The Intentional Fundraiser podcast is your source for growth and excellence in major gift fundraising.
So, buckle up! We're about to embark on a journey to take your major gift program to the next level – and beyond. Let's get intentional about major gift fundraising!
Keep transforming,
Tammy Zonker
Major Gift Expert & Keynote Speaker
Fundraising Transformed
#ScaleRaiseDo
I've spent nearly three decades specializing in major gifts. I’ve seen how major gifts often form the backbone of an organization’s financial stability, and yet, I know many of us find this area particularly challenging. Time and again, I’ve been approached by fundraisers and nonprofit leaders eager to establish or supercharge their major gift programs. It’s become crystal clear that there’s a growing hunger for training and expertise in this area.
I’ve had the incredible privilege of working with nonprofits from all around the world helping organizations collectively raise nearly one billion dollars. During this time, I’ve developed strategies and tools that have consistently helped organizations transition their mid-level donors into major donors through meaningful engagement. It’s a process that, when done consistently, can truly catapult an organization’s major gift fundraising to the next level.
Whether you’re a seasoned major gift officer looking to refine your approach, a development director aiming to build a powerhouse program, an executive director looking to scale your organization’s capacity for transformational giving, or a board member seeking to understand the transformative potential of major gifts, The Intentional Fundraiser podcast is your source for growth and excellence in major gift fundraising.
So, buckle up! We're about to embark on a journey to take your major gift program to the next level – and beyond. Let's get intentional about major gift fundraising!
Keep transforming,
Tammy Zonker
Major Gift Expert & Keynote Speaker
Fundraising Transformed
#ScaleRaiseDo
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 16, 2025 • 15min
Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers
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.

Sep 2, 2025 • 18min
Strategies for Major Donor Retention
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.

Aug 19, 2025 • 20min
Breaking Down Silos: Why the Future of Fundraising is Human-Centered
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.

Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 2min
Becoming Ken: What Fundraisers Can Learn about Dignity, Trust, and Self-Worth
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

Aug 5, 2025 • 54min
How to Build Trust and Stand Firm in Fundraising
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.

Jul 29, 2025 • 17min
Bridging the Gap: Blending Donor and Community-Centered Fundraising
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.

6 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 57min
From Overwhelm to Opportunity: AI and the Modern Fundraiser
Nathan Chappell, Chief AI Officer at Virtuous and co-author of 'Nonprofit AI', shares insights on navigating the rapid changes in AI technology for fundraisers. He explores how curiosity can empower fundraisers to transform anxiety into opportunity. Discussions include the importance of focusing on pain points before choosing AI tools, the balance between technology and human connection, and the need for ethical governance in AI use. Nathan emphasizes the critical role of trust in donor relationships and encourages a culture of curiosity within organizations.

Jul 16, 2025 • 49min
Honoring Voices: Building an Ethical Storytelling Culture in Nonprofits
We don't need more “poverty porn” in our fundraising.I used to think telling hard stories was the only way to move donors—but I was wrong. If you’ve ever felt uneasy asking clients for stories, or unsure if your consent process would stand up to scrutiny, you’re not alone. I sat down with ethical storytelling expert Carly Euler from MemoryFox to explore how we can uplift voices, protect dignity, and still inspire major gifts. What would it mean for your mission—and the people you serve—to get storytelling right, not just for dollars raised, but for true community trust?Listen to this episode and share it with someone ready to transform their approach to fundraising stories.Guest: Carly Euler, Marketing Director, MemoryFoxResources: 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.

Jul 8, 2025 • 16min
Digital Heartbeats: Engaging Major Donors in a Virtual World
Are your major donor relationships merely surviving? Discover how personalization, storytelling, and authenticity are essential in a digital fundraising world. Learn to make your communication memorable with impactful visuals and automate tasks while maintaining a personal touch. It's all about making giving frictionless and inviting genuine engagement. Emphasizing that tech should enhance connection, not replace it, the discussion showcases how to truly see and value your donors in this evolving landscape.

Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 1min
Embracing the Subscription Model in Nonprofit Giving
Donor counts are dropping—even as giving hits record highs.This isn’t just a headline. It’s the reality I unpacked with Dave Raley on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.We dove into why recurring giving is the bright spot in a shifting landscape—and why too many nonprofits still treat it like an afterthought. For years, I thought monthly giving was just for “big” organizations or required fancy tech. Dave’s insights (and his book, The Rise of Sustainable Giving) showed me: any nonprofit can build a thriving program by focusing on real connection and community.Take a listen.Guest: Dave Raley, Founder & CEO, Imago ConsultingResources: 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.