

The Nonprofit Podcast
Jena Lynch, Brittan Stockert & Cara Augspurger
The Nonprofit Podcast is your weekly dose of real-talk fundraising, designed for the doers, dreamers, and difference-makers powering today’s nonprofit world.Hosted by Jena Lynch, Donorbox’s Education & Community Engagement Manager, and fundraising strategist Britt Stockert, CFRE, each episode delivers clear, practical insights you can act on right away, no fluff, no filler.You’ll also hear from Cara Augspurger, Ed.M., CFRE, ED of Grace Care Center Foundation, sharing field updates and frontline perspectives.Whether you’re building something new or leveling up your impact, we bring you bold ideas, honest conversations, and tools to help you fundraise smarter and lead with confidence.Information. Inspiration. Implementation. Impact.That’s the energy we bring…every week.Let’s get to work.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 14, 2024 • 24min
Ep 114| Grow Faster, Smarter: The Nonprofit Guide to Scaling
Send us a textPrepare for a game-changing episode as Jena sits down with Megan Heber, Professor of Practice in Arts Management and Nonprofit Leadership at SMU! Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your organization to the next level, this conversation is packed with practical insights and expert advice on navigating the nonprofit lifecycle. Drilling deep Megan shares her expertise on: Drilling deep Megan shares her expertise on:Understanding the Organizational Life CycleAligning Departments and StakeholdersUsing Gap Analysis for ImprovementSetting Specific and Measurable GoalsJoin us to explore how to: Effectively conduct a gap analysis to understand the current state of your organization.Identify areas for improvement and set clear objectives for growth.Establish concrete goals and timelines to track progress.Hold your organization accountable and ensure continuous development.Get to grips with goal setting and milestones with this comprehensive guide :How to Set and Meet Fundraising Goals the Smart Way (+13 Tips): https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/set-and-meet-fundraising-goals Plus, you can find an overview of Megan’s recommended Nonprofit Life Cycle categories by Suzanne Smith, at Social Impact Architects, including useful graphics, tips, and checklists, here: https://socialimpactarchitects.com/nonprofit-lifecycle/ 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/The Nonprofit Podcast, and a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, are available on the Donorbox YouTube channel, subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all your favorite podcast platforms, so follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.comSupport the show

May 9, 2024 • 14min
Ep 113| The Power of Multi-Channel Fundraising Appeals
Send us a textReady to boost donor engagement on your next major appeal? Join Cara as she explores tactics to amplify the awareness and impact of your nonprofit through crafting multi-channel fundraising appeals. Discover key strategies for crafting appeals that reach and resonate across multiple platforms, from direct mail to social media that will optimize your outreach.Learn more about:The essential components of a powerful fundraising appeal.How to effectively utilize multi-channel strategies to enhance donor engagement.Practical advice on personalizing appeals to connect deeply with your audience.Plus, top tips, resources, and insights on leveraging multi-channel communication to maximize your nonprofit appeals’ visibility and impact.Dive deeper to enhance your appeal writing game with episodes that lay the foundations for multi-channel campaigns, and don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up to date:3 Top Donation-Driving Direct Mail Hacks | The Nonprofit Podcast Ep 32 Email Marketing: The Cost-Effective Way To Build Awareness | The Nonprofit Podcast Ep 21 Cara’s recommendation, “How to Write Successful Fundraising Letters", by Mal Warnick can be ordered from Amazon, here: How to Write Successful Fundraising Letters: Warwick, Mal: 9780787956523: Amazon.com: Books. 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/The Nonprofit Podcast, and a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, are available on the Donorbox YouTube channel, subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all your favorite podcast platforms, so follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.com Support the show

May 2, 2024 • 30min
Ep 112| Ethical Appeals: Mastering Trauma-Informed Storytelling
Send us a textAre You Making These Ethical Mistakes in Your Fundraising Appeals?Discover how to harness the power of trauma-informed, ethical fundraising appeals with expert storyteller Maria Bryan, and elevate your nonprofit's storytelling strategy.Jena and Maria interrogate how and why trauma-informed storytelling fits into a forward-thinking nonprofit marketing framework, plus practical tips for ethical storytelling and fundraising that will resonate, but respect the person's or community's lived experience. Maria Bryan’s skill in resisting harm, while inspiring action amongst supporters and donors, is central to telling these stories with the care they deserve. Learn more about:Navigating Nonprofit Storytelling: shape strategies that respect and uplift those central to your nonprofit's mission.Consent and Safety: Ensuring storytellers control their narratives to protect dignity and support sharing.Challenges in Trauma-Informed Storytelling: Using content warnings and blending hopeful with realistic narratives to avoid exploitation.Join us to explore how to implement: Actionable insights for integrating trauma-informed approaches into fundraising.Key strategies for integrating video storytelling, creating welcoming spaces for sharing narratives, and aligning stories with your values via thorough vetting.Build a deeper understanding with this comprehensive guide :Ethical Nonprofit Storytelling: How to Interview Your Beneficiaries for Stories & Appeals: https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/ethical-nonprofit-storytelling Discover more about Maria’s services and hear more on her podcast When Bearing Witness, here: https://www.mariabryan.com/podcast 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345The Nonprofit Podcast, plus expert advice, tips, and tactics, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel, subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube Find us every Thursday on all your favorite podcast platforms, so follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spoSupport the show

Apr 25, 2024 • 12min
Ep 111| Perfecting Your Nonprofit Elevator Pitch!
Send us a textCan you sell your nonprofit’s mission in 5 minutes? Get ready to make a memorable first impression and maximize every funding opportunity. Join Brittan and Cara to ensure you are ‘Elevator Pitch Perfect’ for funders, and always prepared to create authentic connections with potential supporters. Unlock the secrets to Elevator Pitch Creation with tips to share your:Passion for the Mission: Dive deep into why the cause matters to you.Personal Touch: Share your unique experiences to captivate your audience.Impact Visibility: Reveal the powerful impact of your work with compelling stories and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses. Join us to explore how to implement: Hosting a workshop can help board members, volunteers, and advocates articulate why they care about the organization's mission.Repurposing your elevator pitch for different audiences and situations can save time and ensure consistency in your messaging.And keep your Elevator Pitch preparation on track with this comprehensive guide :How to Craft an Effective Nonprofit Elevator Pitchhttps://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/nonprofit-elevator-pitch 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345 The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all your favorite podcast platforms, so follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.com 🎙️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d6ab11f9-a43f-4228-9fSupport the Show.Support the show

Apr 18, 2024 • 16min
Ep 110| Can AFP 2024 Innovations Transform Your Nonprofit?
Send us a textDive into the latest nonprofit trends direct from AFP Icon 2024! From using AI ‘for good’ to community-driven fundraising, discover how your organization can thrive in today's challenging landscape.With topline takeaways on the newest trends driving nonprofit impact, Jena, joined by the Donorbox team and guest Maria Bryan, Director of Storytelling at Rustic Roots, unpack potential impacts and key insights, plus their personal ‘stand-out’ trend picks from this year’s biggest fundraising conference. Join us to explore: Artificial Intelligence in Fundraising: AI's growing role in enhancing everything from reporting to donor stewardship in fundraising.Community-Driven Fundraising: The rising trend of empowering communities to lead and innovate in fundraising efforts.Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): The increasing recognition of DEI's critical importance in nonprofit operations.We unpack how these essential trends will:Reshape how we think about engagement, and…How to integrate trends and act on them. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to ensure you join us as we unpack them in depth in the coming weeks. But, if you are ready to implement now, we have great resources to assist in integrating these trends into your strategy in The Nonprofit Blog:AI for Nonprofits: How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Goodhttps://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/ai-for-nonprofits ChatGPT for Nonprofits: Maximizing Impact with the Power of AIhttps://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/chatgpt-for-nonprofits 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345 The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all your favorite podcast platforms, so follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.com 🎙️ Amazon Music: Support the show

Apr 10, 2024 • 20min
Ep 109| NTEN 2024: Top Tech Trends for Nonprofits (Data, AI, Fundraising!)
Send us a textNTEN 2024: Top Tech Trends Nonprofits Need Now!Discover how data, AI, and ethics are reshaping nonprofits for the better! Britt and Amy Champagne dig into the most impactful takeaways from this year's NTEN 2024 Nonprofit Technology Conference (NTC).Get ready to leverage the latest thinking for your nonprofit, including how to:Prioritize secure and private data management.Use AI and automation ethically, maintaining a human touch.Adopt community-centric fundraising with a focus on equity and justice.Diversify leadership and evolve donor communications and events.Leverage virtual attendance and webinars for cost-effective learning.From keeping data tight to making AI our friend (without losing the human touch), and putting community at the heart of fundraising, we unpack why it's all about smart tech and warmer connections. For more information on upcoming conferences this year, we have an excellent guide for 2024 in The Nonprofit Blog:11 Can’t-Miss Nonprofit Conferences in 2024https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/nonprofit-conferences-2024 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345The Nonprofit Podcast, and a wealth of nonprofit leadership tutorials, expert advice, tips, and tactics, are available on the Donorbox YouTube channel, subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all your favorite podcast platforms, so follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.com 🎙️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d6ab11f9-a43f-4228-9f62-732a4f728583/the-nonprofit-podcast Support the show

Apr 3, 2024 • 2min
Ep 108| A Quick Timeout: Fresh Takes Loading!
Send us a textRefueling with Stories and Strategies for Nonprofit SuccessThis week, our podcast waves hello from a short post-Easter break. We're gathering stories, strategies, and inspiration to spark new thinking that's all about elevating your nonprofit work and growing your mission.Stay with us, as we return next week, April 11, ready to empower your mission like never before. Your journey to nonprofit excellence is our priority, and we can't wait to be part of your next big leap!Are you looking for more fundraising resources to inspire you while we are on our one-week pause?Subscribe to The Nonprofit Podcast for expert advice, tips & tricks on all things fundraising: https://www.youtube.com/@Donorbox/podcasts 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345 Subscribe today - The Nonprofit Podcast, plus great tutorials, advice from industry experts, tips, and tricks, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel, subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube The Nonprofit Podcast is available every Thursday on all your favorite podcast platforms, so follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.com 🎙️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d6ab11f9-a43f-4228-9f62-732a4f728583/the-nonprofit-podcast Support the show

Mar 26, 2024 • 26min
Ep 107: Mastering Volunteer Management| Top Tips & Strategies
Send us a textToday, we're drawing on expert advice from Geng Wang, CEO of Civic Champs, to guide you through the nuances of attracting, engaging, and retaining the heart and soul of your organization—your volunteers. Join us for more on:Crafting appealing volunteer opportunities.Cultivating a culture of appreciation and growth.Integrating technology and best practices for program effectiveness.Transforming volunteer initiatives into key organizational assets.From leveraging technology to cultivating community and purpose, Jena and Geng provide actionable insights to keep your volunteers committed and ensure they become passionate advocates for your cause. Plus, we have free resources to help you start your volunteer program from a strong foundation:How to Attract the Best Volunteers [And Keep Them] https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/how-to-attract-the-best-volunteers-and-keep-them 5 Reasons Why Volunteers Are Essential for Nonprofit Organizations https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/nonprofit-volunteers If you’re ready to take action or would like to know more about Civic Champs:Visit Civic Champs for inspiring use case examples and resources.Or follow Geng Wang on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gengwang/ Looking for more fundraising resources?Subscribe to The Nonprofit Podcast for expert advice, tips & tricks on all things fundraising: https://www.youtube.com/@Donorbox/podcasts 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, 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. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345 Subscribe today - The Nonprofit Podcast, plus great tutorials, advice from industry experts, tips, and tricks, is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel: 🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube Available every Thursday, follow, rate, and download so you never miss an episode:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7Support the show

Mar 21, 2024 • 21min
Ep 106: Budget-Friendly Branding for Nonprofits
Send us a textBuild Your Nonprofit Brand without Breaking the Bank!Ready to elevate your nonprofit's brand presence without draining your resources? In this episode, Cara sits down with Dustin Gladwell, the visionary founder and CEO of CharlieMike.org, to uncover the keys to budget-friendly branding. With a wealth of experience in both marketing and nonprofit leadership, Dustin shares practical tips and strategies to help you maximize brand impact on a limited budget. Learn how to:Build strategies for maintaining brand consistency with limited resources.Apply actionable advice on narrative crafting, social media, and stakeholder engagement.Avoid common (and costly) branding mistakes and misconceptions.Make a big impact with limited funds through smart messaging and digital platforms.Get ready to craft a compelling brand story that resonates with donors and stakeholders. The Nonprofit Blog has 2 comprehensive guides to assist you:📑7 Essential Tips for Building a Strong Nonprofit Brandhttps://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/building-a-strong-nonprofit-brand 📑Why Personal Branding Matters For Nonprofitshttps://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/personal-branding Head to CharlieMike.org to support the remarkable work they do: https://charliemike.org/ Discover how Donorbox can help you achieve your strategic goals! Used by 80,000+ nonprofits and individuals to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact. Take a tour right now and start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345 The Nonprofit Podcast is available on the Donorbox YouTube channel, subscribe today and never miss an episode:🖥️The Nonprofit Podcast 🎙️🎙️ - YouTube Find us every Thursday on your favorite podcast platform:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.com 🎙️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d6ab11f9-a43f-4228-9f62-732a4f728583/the-nonprofit-podcast Support the show

Mar 13, 2024 • 14min
Ep 105: 5 Ways to Make Social Media Marketing Easier
Send us a textIs your social media missing the mark with supporters? Find your audience with Cara and Nonprofit Marketing Nerd CEO, Kelly Gagnon, who shares five simple strategies to streamline and systematize your social media strategy to elevate your impact! Dig into how social media is often overlooked despite being critical to engaging existing, and attracting new, supporters to your cause. If all you hear after posting is crickets, join us for easily implementable tactics and resources, and learn how to:Plan and prioritize social media campaignsConsistently maintain your social media campaignsUnderstand your target audience and donor prospectsUse Content Pillars to generate campaign ideas (with examples)Create authentic social media contentKelly shares excellent resources to get your new social media strategy up and running optimally:🖥️What's the Best Tool to Plan Your Nonprofit's Social Media?: https://nonprofit-nerd.com/contentplanner 💻How to Plan Your Nonprofit's Social Media Strategy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX0khG7tdFk 💻Garbage Post Challenge - What is it and how can Nonprofits Use it to Transform their Marketing?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubpICSJdncU Find out more about Nonprofit Marketing Nerd here: https://nonprofit-nerd.com/ Plus, we have 2 great guides from The Nonprofit Blog: 📑7 Most Essential Nonprofit Social Media Tools: https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/nonprofit-social-media-tools 📑Make the Most of Your Nonprofit’s Social Media: The Get-Started Guide: https://donorbox.org/nonprofit-blog/social-media-for-nonprofits 🥇 Inspired to fundraise for your cause? Discover what Donorbox can do for you!🥇Easy to customize, available in multiple languages and currencies, and supported by leading payment processors, Donorbox’s nonprofit fundraising solution is used by 80,000+ global organizations and individuals. From animal rescue to medical research groups, nonprofits use Donorbox to raise more funds, manage donors efficiently, and make a bigger impact. Start fundraising in just 15 minutes: → https://donorbox.org/?ref=dono345 🖥️Don't miss a trick - subscribe to our Donorbox YouTube channel for great tutorials, expert advice, and more.🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-important-podcast/id1483848924 🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2fj1bk0PHws7kn6CMwzhLQ 🎙️ Buzzsprout: https://thenonprofitpodcast.buzzsprout.com 🎙️ Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/d6ab11f9-a43f-4228-9f62-732a4f728583/the-nonprofit-podcastSupport the show