The Nonprofit Podcast

Jena Lynch, Brittan Stockert & Cara Augspurger
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Nov 13, 2025 • 11min

Ep 184| Elevate Your Fundraising Success with These 3 AI Prompts!

Send us a textWriter’s block for Christmas? You’re not alone. Try these Giving Season AI writing prompts that actually workIn this short, informative easy listen, Britt Stockert shares how AI can be the creative writing partner you didn’t know you needed this Giving Season.She walks through how to use AI prompts to beat the blank page, keep your tone real, and save time on those endless donor messages.What’s inside:Why, and how, AI can be your creative sidekick for campaign writing3 prompts to get unblocked fastHow to keep your messages sounding real, not roboticThe ethical line you should never crossThis episode’s a little lighter and perfect for when your Giving Season coffee has gone cold and your cursor’s been blinking too long.And, to take your full fundraising strategy to the next level, check out JayAI here, or head to our blog for a breakdown of AI for Nonprofits: How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Good to round out your AI knowledge base.Listen now and make writing the easiest part of your Giving Season.What makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.Discover how Donorbox can help you help others!The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. Subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTubeThe Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast Support the show
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Nov 6, 2025 • 21min

Ep 183| 3 November Fundraising Strategies To Maximize Year-End Results

Send us a textNovember is Giving Season Go TimeIt’s here - now is the time to transition your year-end campaigns from planning to performance. Your message is live, donors are active, and every touchpoint counts.In this episode, Jena and Cara break down how to confidently lead your campaign, stay engaged, and keep supporters connected through every moment of Giving Season.What you’ll learnA simple 3-step rhythm to lead your campaign with clarityThe mistake that quietly stalls year-end fundraisingHow often to check campaign performance (and what to look for)Smart mid-month touchpoints that keep donors engagedPerfect for nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, campaign managers, and anyone running year-end appeals.Don’t forget your free featured resource from our sponsor, AppealMaker, The 2025 State of Direct Mail Survey, packed with fresh insights into donor behavior and communication trends.Download it here, and take a moment to explore how AppealMaker can strengthen your direct mail outreach.What makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.Discover how Donorbox can help you help others!The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. Subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTubeThe Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast Support the show
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Oct 30, 2025 • 11min

Ep 182| The truth about nonprofit online presence nobody tells you!

Explore the critical importance of managing your nonprofit's online presence to build donor trust and organizational credibility. Discover how inaccuracies can hinder visibility in AI and search engines, confusing potential supporters. Jena Lynch shares actionable steps for auditing your digital footprint, claiming vital directory listings, and ensuring consistent donation links. With year-end campaigns approaching, this is the perfect time to refresh your online strategies for maximum impact.
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Oct 23, 2025 • 19min

Ep 181| 5 Simple Steps to Ease Donor Meeting Stress

Send us a textFreezing Before Donor Meetings? Let’s Fix That.Why do donor meetings feel so stressful - especially at year-end?  Brittan breaks down the real reason so many fundraisers dread sitting down with donors, and why it's not about your fundraising skills.You’ll learn how cultural money stories shape your confidence, how to reframe the fear, and how to lead donor meetings that are grounded in curiosity, connection, and trust - not pressure or perfection.Takeaways include:Why fundraising isn’t about “the ask”How to prepare for meetings with confidenceA simple 5-step framework for better donor conversationsWhat to do when the fear still creeps in📬 This episode is proudly sponsored by AppealMaker - an easy, simple, and stress-free way to send direct mail campaigns that feel personal and powerful. Set up your free account (no credit card needed!) at AppealMaker.com today.📅 Want coaching support for your year-end strategy? Book a 30-minute discovery call with Brittan here.  What makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.Discover how Donorbox can help you help others!The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. Subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTubeThe Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast Support the show
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Oct 16, 2025 • 18min

Ep 180| Your Year-End Edge: Direct Mail Fundraising That Delivers

Send us a textSome tools evolve. Others endure. Direct mail does both.Cara Augspurger sits down with Joe Leach, CEO of AppealMaker, to unpack how technology is reshaping one of fundraising’s most trusted tools - direct mail.They dig deep into how automation, follow-up strategies, and smart timing can turn traditional mail into a high-performing element of your year-end fundraising strategy. Plus, Joe shares how smaller nonprofits can use agility to their advantage, and why the simplest changes often deliver the biggest results.Discover:How automation streamlines direct mail fundraisingWhy follow-up letters can double response ratesHow small teams can move faster…and smarterWhere direct mail fits in your multi-channel strategyResources Mentioned:AppealMaker - Your all-in-one, 24/7 direct mail platform made for nonprofits. Get started today, no credit card needed.2025 State of Direct Mail ReportThis episode is proudly sponsored by AppealMaker - smarter direct mail for stronger donor connections.What makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.Discover how Donorbox can help you help others!The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. Subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTubeThe Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms. 🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast Support the show
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Oct 9, 2025 • 17min

Ep 179| 4 Must-Know Tips for Stronger Year-End Appeals

Send us a textYear-end appeals are your nonprofit’s biggest fundraising moment - and you only get one shot.Fundraising coach Britt Stockert shares 4 smart ways to help your appeal break through the noise and connect where it counts.Discover:A better way to segment your donorsThe story shift that grabs attention fastWhat donors actually want to hearHow to make your ask land with confidenceListen in - build an appeal that works and write your strongest year-end message yet.🗓 Want Britt to review your appeal? Book your free session here.  What makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.Discover how Donorbox can help you help others!The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. Subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTubeThe Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and download, and never miss an episode.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast Support the show
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Oct 2, 2025 • 20min

Ep 178| The 3 Don’ts of October Fundraising (Year-End Roadmap)

October is the month where nonprofits must prepare to avoid a December scramble. The hosts share three crucial fundraising don’ts: avoid keeping plans in your head, don’t surprise donors, and ensure everything is clear and obvious. They emphasize the importance of warming up donors with personal touches and updates before major asks. Practical tips include moving tasks into systems and drafting appeals early. Listeners are encouraged to take immediate action by selecting one manageable task to alleviate future stress.
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Sep 25, 2025 • 15min

Ep 177|From Year-End to Year-Round: 5 Top Recurring Giving Tips

Send us a textReady to go from year-end gifts to year-round growth?Year-end giving may steal the spotlight, but what happens after December is what determines lasting success. The nonprofits that thrive aren’t just chasing one-time gifts - they’re building relationships that carry impact well into the new year.Today, Jena revisits a standout 2024 conversation with Chris Barlow of Beeline Marketing, layered with fresh insights for Giving Season 2025. Together, they explore how nonprofits can transform seasonal generosity into sustainable recurring giving programs rooted in trust, timing, and clear messaging.Here’s what you’ll take away:Why year-end giving should be the start of your retention strategy.How recurring revenue secures long-term donor value.Strategic shifts that strengthen year-round fundraising.Listen in, take notes, and step into 2026 with a plan built for more than just December.Find the full conversation with Chris Barlow here Discover how the Donorbox Recurring Upsell feature can help you hereAnd, to round out your strategy: Jump into a variety of Year-End Fundraising Guides on the Donorbox Blog What makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and download, and never miss an episode.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast Support the show
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Sep 18, 2025 • 30min

Ep 176| From Guest to Donor: Your Nonprofit Event Game Plan with Chad Barger

Send us a textWhat if your nonprofit event did more than raise money for a night?What if it sparked long-term donor loyalty?This week, Jena Lynch sits down with master fundraising strategist Chad Barger to rethink how we measure event success.Forget vanity metrics. We're talking about the event ROI that actually counts, and how your fall events should be the start of something bigger than a single gift.Ready to flip the script on your next Year-end event?  Tune in to learn:What you're not measuring (but should be)How donor journeys really start at eventsAnd the critical follow-up moves most nonprofits skipPrefer to watch? Catch Jena and Chad in action on The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube - and don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share so more nonprofits can find us. Discover how Donorbox can help you help others!  This Giving Season, power up your nonprofit event with Donorbox’s Dynamic Duo:Donorbox Events: Sell tickets, collect donations, and boost turnout with easeDonorbox Live™ Kiosk: Let guests give on the spot, right at check-in, the bar, or your auctionWhat makes Donorbox the Best Nonprofit Fundraising Platform to Achieve Your Strategic Goals?Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors (Stripe and PayPal), Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to schools, places of worship, and research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact.The Nonprofit Podcast, along with a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel. The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all popular podcast platforms. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and download, and never miss an episode.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: The Nonprofit Podcast🎙️ Spotify: The Nonprofit Podcast Support the show
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Sep 11, 2025 • 17min

Ep 175| 3 Simple Strategies to Grow Donor Relationships

Discover the art of micro-touches in fundraising that transform donor relationships. Learn how personalized, emotionally resonant messages can build trust and keep your cause vibrant in donors' minds. Unpack the power of audio check-ins and handwritten notes to engage supporters. Dive into storytelling and co-creation strategies that deepen connections. Plus, don't miss a chance to win a Donorbox Live Kiosk to boost year-end giving. Fundraising is about being human, not just louder!

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