What the Fundraising

Mallory Erickson
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Oct 17, 2023 • 30min

151: AI and Nonprofits: What’s Hype, What’s Real, and What Should You Do About It with Mallory Erickson

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast,In this episode, Mallory explores the convergence of AI and fundraising and addresses common inquiries to clarify AI's role in nonprofit fundraising. Also, she offers perspectives on the ethical use of AI and how it aligns with improving the well-being of fundraisers by reducing stress and increasing empowerment.Moreover, Mallory shares about the upcoming fundraising AI global summit held on October 23rd and 24th. This summit promises to be a transformative experience, featuring technology experts, one-on-one content, and comprehensive discussions on AI in fundraising. Whether you're new to AI or a seasoned expert, this summit is a must-attend event to unlock the full potential of AI in your fundraising efforts.So, mark your calendars and prepare to embark on a journey towards responsible AI usage, empowerment, and fundraising success. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking summit—your path to becoming an emboldened and enabled fundraiser starts here! In this episode, you will be able to:Explore AI as a tool to address specific challenges and pain points in fundraising rather than treating it as a quick fix or "shiny object."Analyze how AI can influence motivation, ability, and prompts in fundraising scenarios.Ask three crucial questions: Was there a prompt? How can the action be made easier? How can motivation be managed effectively? ; When faced with fundraising challenges.Approach AI decision-making by identifying the challenges and problems you face in fundraising rather than centering the technology itself.Engage with AI in fundraising to empower your work and avoid treating AI as a mere trend or buzzword.Consider attending the first-ever fundraising AI global summit on October 23rd and 24th, featuring technology experts and valuable one-on-one content!Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, iWave for making this episode possible. Our friends at iWave help nonprofits identify, qualify, and retain donors to raise more major gifts. Using their comprehensive software, iWave gives you access to the industry’s highest quality wealth and philanthropic information so you can determine who to ask, how much to ask for, and when to ask. To get a demo and learn more, check out iWave.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point
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Oct 10, 2023 • 31min

150: The Evolving Landscape of Technology, Data, & Fundraising with Katherine Scott

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, Mallory engages in a dynamic conversation with Katherine Scott, an esteemed Prospect Development Specialist based in Toronto, Canada. With over ten years of experience in fundraising and a wealth of expertise in nonprofit organizations, Katherine shares her invaluable insights into fundraising, prospect research, and integrating AI-powered tools like iWave into the fundraising landscape.In this episode, you will be able to: Discover Katherine's perspective and practical applications on unlocking the power of AI in Fundraising:  Learn how to revolutionize prospect research and data analysis in fundraising with iWave Learn about balancing tech and relationships in fundraising Get an insight into the the power of data and intuition Discover tips & tricks for navigating the adoption of prospect research tools Get all the resources from today’s episode here.Many thanks to our sponsor, iWave for making this episode possible. Our friends at iWave help nonprofits identify, qualify, and retain donors to raise more major gifts. Using their comprehensive software, iWave gives you access to the industry’s highest quality wealth and philanthropic information so you can determine who to ask, how much to ask for, and when to ask. To get a demo and learn more, check out iWave.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point
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Oct 3, 2023 • 26min

149: Intro to AI & Using it in Your Nonprofit with Dena Vongchanh

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode that's set to redefine the way nonprofits approach technology and innovation. Join us on this transformative journey as we unravel the layers of AI adoption, from overcoming fears and ethical considerations to practical steps for implementation.In this engaging podcast episode, we have the privilege of having Dena Vongchanh, a passionate advocate for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) in nonprofit organizations. She is the Associate Director of Development at Students Rising Above, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through education and mentorship. With a passion for technology and its potential to drive positive change, Dena brings her expertise to the nonprofit sector, helping the organization harness the benefits of AI and data-driven solutions to further its mission. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn about balancing potential benefits and ethical challenges of AI adoption. Get an insight into uncovering hidden biases and ensuring inclusivity when using AI for non-profit work. Discover how some of the already familiar tools are leveraging AI. Learn about overcoming fears related to AI, building policies for AI, and fostering collaboration when using AI tools in a non-profit organization. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point
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Sep 26, 2023 • 46min

148: Transforming Nonprofits through Servant Leadership with Evan Wildstein

Meet Evan Wildstein, a dynamic figure in the nonprofit sector with two decades of experience under his belt. A rock musician at heart, Evan transitioned from captivating audiences on stage to creating meaningful relationships in the philanthropic world. His well-rounded background in business management coupled with a strong passion for arts and public programs gives him a unique perspective in servant leadership. What sets Evan apart is his ongoing quest to redefine servant leadership – moving away from the old paradigm of selflessness and sacrifice, towards a focus on community building and self-growth. In this episode, Evan and I talk about the positive impact of servant leadership in nonprofit operations and how empathy can turn a fundraising relationship from simple to sublime.In this episode, you will be able to: Delve into the positive impact of servant leadership in nonprofit operations. Grasp how empathy can turn a fundraising relationship from simple to sublime. Comprehend the criticality of conceptualization in navigating the dynamics of servant leadership. Become aware of the potential hurdles in the journey to embracing servant leadership. Acquire knowledge on infusing your organization's culture with principles of servant leadership. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Constant Contact for making this episode possible. Our friends at Constant Contact provide nonprofit leaders like you with cutting-edge email and social media management tools. Want to craft emails that shine on every device or manage your social media effortlessly? And for those moments you're at a loss for words, their AI Content Generator, powered by ChatGPT, delivers engaging messages in mere seconds. For a platform that amplifies your marketing, saves time, and drives growth, look no further than Constant Contact. Get started with your risk-free trial using the promo code 'MALLORY' for 30% off your first three months. Discover more at www.constantcontact.com/mallory.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.
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Sep 19, 2023 • 42min

147: Kick-Starting a Nonprofit from the Ground Up with Tiffany Allen

If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of progress in your efforts to start a nonprofit organization from scratch, despite your countless hours of research and networking, then you are not alone! Many individuals like yourself find themselves stuck in a cycle of ineffective actions, such as submitting grant applications with little success or struggling to build a strong support base. Instead of experiencing growth and impact, they are left feeling discouraged and unsure of how to move forward. But fear not, there is a way to break free from this cycle and achieve the successful establishment and growth of a nonprofit organization.Say hello to Tiffany Allen, an inspiring entrepreneur with an unwavering commitment to empowering non-profit start-ups. As the creator of ‘Boss on a Budget’, she has been cradling the dreams of fresh non-profit entrepreneurs since 2016. Tiffany's focus leans towards aiding small, grassroots organizations and those led by communities of color. With a repository of educational content, digital tools, and personal coaching, she's built a supportive foundation for those ready to make a difference in the world. Armed with a potent blend of strategic insight and heartfelt passion, Tiffany has steered numerous non-profits to a path of sustainable growth.In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the essentials to kick-starting a nonprofit organization from the ground up, cementing the foundations for success. Uncover proven fundraising strategies for starting your nonprofit, while preparing to tackle potential challenges head-on. Gain an understanding of how to construct a robust board and team, vital to your nonprofit's growth. Learn about the necessary shift from a volunteer-run organization to having a paid staff, delving into the dynamics of this transition. Get an insight into recognizing when it might be the right time to close down a nonprofit organization, a decision that, though tough, sometimes should be contemplated in the interest of the cause. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Constant Contact for making this episode possible. Our friends at Constant Contact provide nonprofit leaders like you with cutting-edge email and social media management tools. Want to craft emails that shine on every device or manage your social media effortlessly? And for those moments you're at a loss for words, their AI Content Generator, powered by ChatGPT, delivers engaging messages in mere seconds. For a platform that amplifies your marketing, saves time, and drives growth, look no further than Constant Contact. Get started with your risk-free trial using the promo code 'MALLORY' for 30% off your first three months. Discover more at www.constantcontact.com/mallory.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.
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Sep 12, 2023 • 46min

146: Secrets to Fundraising Confidence & Success with Lydia Fenet

Our guest today, Lydia Fenet, is an inspiration in the world of charity and fundraising. Her career began at the world-renowned Christie's Auction House, where she carved a niche as one of the few young female charity auctioneers in the sector. After 24 fulfilling years, Lydia embarked on her own entrepreneurial journey by founding the Lydia Fenet Agency, dedicated to charity auctioneering. Her books The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You and Claim Your Confidence have echoed her learnings and insights, creating ripples across readers globally. She's driven by the core belief in the power of confidence and the need for authenticity in being successful, either on stage or in life.Seeking to shatter fundraising norms and challenge the scarcity mindset, Lydia aims to diversify auctioneers and create an inclusive atmosphere in the world of fundraising.In this episode, you will be able to: Gain insight on how to exert confidence and demonstrate authority during fundraising efforts. Learn to overcome hurdles and discover your unique voice as an auctioneer or fundraiser. Embrace the power of failure and the lessons it can provide through personal accounts of success and failure. Understand the importance of diversity among auctioneers and the need for increased representation. Discover strategies for cultivating engaging in-person experiences that amplify the success of fundraising events. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Constant Contact for making this episode possible. Our friends at Constant Contact provide nonprofit leaders like you with cutting-edge email and social media management tools. Want to craft emails that shine on every device or manage your social media effortlessly? And for those moments you're at a loss for words, their AI Content Generator, powered by ChatGPT, delivers engaging messages in mere seconds. For a platform that amplifies your marketing, saves time, and drives growth, look no further than Constant Contact. Get started with your risk-free trial using the promo code 'MALLORY' for 30% off your first three months. Discover more at www.constantcontact.com/mallory.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.
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Sep 5, 2023 • 47min

145: Breaking the Fundraising Mold: Empathy and Design Thinking in Action with Sheryl Cababa

Do you want to enhance your design practices and create more equitable outcomes for marginalized communities? Are you seeking a solution to incorporate human-centered design into your nonprofit organization? Look no further! Our guest, Sheryl Cababa, will be sharing the key to achieving improved design practices and fostering greater equity in the nonprofit sector. Join us as we explore how to create meaningful impact and drive positive change within your organization, resulting in more inclusive and equitable outcomes for all.Sheryl Cababa is a staunch believer in human-centered and equity-centered design. Pioneering her way through the design landscape, Sheryl currently leads as the Chief Strategy Officer at Substantial, a transformative design studio ensuring that design solutions are informed by the real lived experiences and contexts of the end users. With a design background shaped by industry giants like Microsoft and Philips, she has a unique ability to understand and weave the intricacies of design thinking with profound empathy for human experiences. Sheryl is particularly focused on uplifting historically marginalized voices in the education sector, crafting tools and solutions that approach the user experience innovatively and equitably.In this episode, you will be able to: Unearth the role of human-based design in empowering nonprofits to deliver real change. Recognize the significance of equity in design practices, catalyzing inclusive and effective solutions. Grasp the unique struggles that come with implementing human-centered design in the nonprofit landscape. Expose potential imbalances in power dynamics during design processes and their consequences. Reimagine fundraising through a fresh perspective rooted in empathy and long-term sustainability. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Constant Contact for making this episode possible. Our friends at Constant Contact provide nonprofit leaders like you with cutting-edge email and social media management tools. Want to craft emails that shine on every device or manage your social media effortlessly? And for those moments you're at a loss for words, their AI Content Generator, powered by ChatGPT, delivers engaging messages in mere seconds. For a platform that amplifies your marketing, saves time, and drives growth, look no further than Constant Contact. Get started with your risk-free trial using the promo code 'MALLORY' for 30% off your first three months. Discover more at www.constantcontact.com/mallory.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.
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Aug 29, 2023 • 40min

144: Unleash Your Potential: The Power of Coaching for Personal and Professional Growth with LaTresse Snead

Have you heard these myths about coaching for personal and professional growth? Myth 1: Coaching is only for people who are struggling. Myth 2: Coaching is a sign of weakness or incompetence. Myth 3: Coaching is a luxury that only top executives can afford. In this episode, our guest LaTresse Snead will debunk these myths and share the truth about the value and benefits of coaching for professionals in leadership positions seeking growth. LaTresse’s impressive career journey boasts leadership roles at major organizations like the American Red Cross and the National Park Foundation. With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she recognizes the pressing need for coaching, consulting, and recruiting services in today's demanding professional environment. As the CEO of Bonsai Leadership Group, LaTresse answers this need, helping countless organizations optimize their performance and potential. Through her distinct perspective on time and energy management, she inspires leaders to nourish their inner strengths, leading them toward success without compromising their well-being.In this episode, you will: Grasp the critical role of boundary setting and energy management in fostering a healthier workplace environment. Delve into the distinct challenges confronted by Black fundraisers shedding light on the need for better inclusion in the fundraising field. Ascertain the overwhelming benefits of adopting coaching strategies for the development of your personal and professional life. Rethink negotiation as a path to shared success, challenging the classical view of winner-take-all. Realize the empowering potential of negotiation skills in revealing your own authority and amplifying your influence. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Overflow, for making this episode possible. This all-in-one platform features some of the lowest cash processing fees in the industry. Check out Overflow to help make your donations go further this holiday season. Learn more and get started at overflow.co/malloryConnect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point
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Aug 22, 2023 • 53min

143: Unlocking Donor Engagement: Designing Tiny Habits that Increase Fundraising Success with Juni Felix

Junie Felix, a behavior design practitioner from the Stanford Behavior Design Lab, shares her insights on enhancing donor engagement. She discusses the importance of emotional well-being in fundraising and offers strategies to prevent motivation dips. Junie advocates for breaking tasks into tiny, manageable steps to foster donor retention and emphasizes building genuine connections through relational prompts. With her unique blend of science and creativity, she guides fundraisers in creating effective systems for sustained engagement.
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Aug 15, 2023 • 43min

142: Unlocking Donor Engagement: Understanding How Fundraiser Behavior Leads to Donor Behavior

In the world of philanthropy, Jessica Channell Iler's journey was anything but ordinary. As the Director of Fundraising, Intelligence, Analytics, and Reporting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Jessica's navigated the labyrinth of higher education fundraising for two decades. Harnessing the power of data-driven decision-making, she's deftly amalgamated her knowledge of analytics and fundraising intelligence to build robust bonds between fundraisers and donors, blending the precision of data science with the delicate art of relationship-building.In this episode, Jessica and I delve into the intricate relationship between fundraising activities and donor behavior. There's a tendency in our sector to view donor behavior as a meteorological phenomenon - as if it randomly occurs without provocation. However, donor behavior often mirrors fundraiser actions; the latter acts as a leading indicator, while the former is a lagging indicator. I'm intrigued to explore what transpires when we scrutinize this correlation closely - which behaviors yield the most impact and thus require prioritization? What shifts when we actively track our actions, rather than solely focusing on the end result? Jessica's current focus is on understanding the relationship between fundraising activities and donor behavior makes her the perfect person to discuss this with. Her mission is to uncover the drivers of productivity and to refine the approach, particularly in the mid-level giving space. Through her work, Jessica continues to inspire a culture of giving that is aligned with the interests and capacities of her constituents.In this episode, you will be able to: Illuminate the importance of accurately reading and tracking fundraiser and donor interactions. Understand how fundraiser behavior inspires donors to take action. Experience the power of focused prospect development in nurturing fundraiser-donor bonds. Identify key engagement pointers crucial for small nonprofit sustainability and progression. Discern the profound impact of true engagement, openness, and stewardship in fundraising activities.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Bloomerang for making this episode possible. Bloomerang offers donor management and online fundraising software that helps small to medium nonprofits, like First Tee of Greater Akron, a nonprofit that empowers kids and teens through the game of golf. After just one year with Bloomerang they doubled their unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds. Head to bloomerang.com/whatthefundraising to learn more about Bloomerang. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraisingYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/Website: malloryerickson.com/podcastLoved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization.

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