What the Fundraising

Grassroots storytelling emphasizes genuine, human experiences that can deeply connect with the audience. Rather than focusing on a polished narrative, it prioritizes the authenticity and raw emotions of individuals who are not professional storytellers. This form of storytelling can have a profound impact on the listener, as it evokes empathy and understanding by showcasing the unfiltered realities faced by real people. In this episode we interview Chris Miano, a passionate advocate for authentic storytelling and founder of MemoryFox, a storytelling platform for nonprofits to collect and leverage stories from their communities for fundraising and marketing. MemoryFox was initially designed as a storytelling platform for pre-dementia elderly but pivoted to serve all nonprofits. Chris has an incredible journey that started with his time in the Army and the desire to preserve his grandfather's stories from World War II. In this episode, Chris urges non-profit marketers to embrace grassroots storytelling, rejecting the idea of creating perfect, scripted stories. Instead, Chris values the imperfections as a representation of genuine human experience. He believes that the energy, tone, and body language of the storyteller are more compelling than carefully selected words, emphasizing the need for non-profits to prioritize honest and relatable narratives. For nonprofits, grassroots storytelling also provides an avenue to hear and learn from their own communities and share these insights with a wider audience, effectively promoting their cause.In this episode, you will:1. Discover the power of authentic storytelling to inspire support for non-profits. 2. Uncover the ethical dilemmas of using personal experiences in fundraising efforts. 3. Learn about cultivating stronger bonds between non-profit organizations and funders through compelling narratives. 4. Tap into the potential of technology and younger generations to drive social change. 5. Master the art of streamlining non-profit promotion through user-friendly platforms.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.

In today's world, artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way we approach various tasks, from mundane daily tasks to complex business problems. For nonprofits, the use of AI in fundraising and donor engagement is a game-changer that could lead to improved strategies and deeper connections with donors. AI helps these organizations analyze massive amounts of data to identify patterns and trends, ultimately leading to the pinpointing of ideal donors and tailoring meaningful communication to them. In this episode, I talk with Shawn Olds, a seasoned entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist with over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. As the Co-founder and CEO of boodleAI, Shawn has made it his mission to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to help nonprofits deepen their human connections and streamline communication. His expertise in leveraging AI has helped countless organizations optimize their fundraising strategies and maximize donor engagement. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the revolutionary role of AI in enhancing nonprofit fundraising approaches. Uncover the power of affinity-based modeling for pinpointing potential donor leads. Grasp the importance of maintaining data privacy and safeguarding it in AI collaborations. Realize the potential of AI to foster genuine human connections and optimize communication. Identify and tackle biases in algorithms to ensure impartial donor insights. NOTE: There is no sponsorship or industry money behind the production of this series and the editorial content was at the sole discretion of the What the Fundraising team.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.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved significantly over the years, transforming from a concept that fascinated us when computers bested chess champions, to a powerful tool with a variety of applications. For nonprofit professionals, AI has the ability to revolutionize content creation in the sector, automating tasks, and providing insights into data patterns and trends. AI creates a new approach when it comes to content production and it has the potential to save time and streamline processes in a big way, allowing organizations to focus on their core mission and themselves.. And I am talking about all of this and more with today’s guest, Cherian Koshy, an innovative leader in the nonprofit sector, helping organizations harness the power of AI to revolutionize their fundraising and content creation efforts. After witnessing the impact of AI on various industries, Cherian realized its potential to transform the way nonprofits approach donor relations and communication. With a passion for technology and a keen eye for opportunities, he successfully integrated AI tools into his own work, streamlining processes and increasing efficiency and now he’s here to help the rest of us. In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Discover how AI is transforming content creation in the fundraising and nonprofit sector. 2. Uncover the importance of balancing AI-generated content with human editing and approval. 3. Recognize the potential dangers of AI bias and misinformation and how to address them. 4. Explore the power of AI in donor identification and engagement strategies. 5. Learn about time-saving AI tools that can enhance work-life balance for nonprofit professionals.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.

The importance of measuring a person's connection to an organization cannot be underestimated, as it transforms the way nonprofit fundraisers prioritize and prompt potential donors. By utilizing artificial intelligence, fundraisers can focus on building relationships with individuals based on their genuine interest in the cause rather than simply targeting them because of their wealth. This approach leads to more meaningful and fruitful partnerships, which positively impacts the efforts of the organization in the long run. In this episode, I get to speak with Nathan Chappell, a trailblazer in the world of AI-driven fundraising and co-author of the book Generosity Crisis. Nathan brings his vast experience and innovative ideas to the conversation and there is so much to learn! With a background in technology and business ownership, Nathan embarked on a 20-year journey in the nonprofit sector before joining Donor Search AI. In this episode, Nathan shares his insights on using AI to measure connections, stressing its ability to challenge assumptions and improve accuracy when modeling donors and prospects. For example, by treating donors and non-donors as separate entities and considering their ever-evolving priorities, AI enables fundraisers to make informed decisions about which individuals are most likely to offer valuable support. Nathan's expertise in machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing has enabled him to challenge traditional assumptions and deliver groundbreaking insights into donor behavior.In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Discover the innovative ways AI is combating the challenges faced by nonprofit organizations. 2. Uncover the secrets behind personalization and precision in charitable giving through AI technology. 3. Recognize the vital aspects of responsible AI, including privacy, security, ethics, and equity. 4. Embrace the discomfort associated with AI implementation for improved fundraising results. 5. Grasp the importance of accountability and transparency in AI-driven models for nonprofits.Get all the resources from today’s episode hereConnect 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/id1575421652Please note: This episode is a part of a very special series called The People Behind the Products. More than ever, nonprofits care about the company behind their technology and service providers. What’s the underlying mission and vision of the company? What do they stand for? And how are they thinking about the sector and serving nonprofits? This series is an opportunity to get to know some of my favorite nonprofit technology companies so that the next time you’re making a tech decision, you can understand a little bit more about the people behind the product. There is no sponsorship or industry money behind the production of this series and the editorial content was at the sole discretion of the What the Fundraising team. If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link.

As a fundraiser, your ability to handle stress is constantly tested. Fundraising requires lot of hard work, sacrifice, rejection, and honestly, sometimes trauma. If you have a sensitive nervous system, like many fundraisers do, you’re more prone to burnout, anxiety, and chronic stress. So, how can we prevent that? Today’s guest is here to help! Dr. Linnea Passaler is the Founder and CEO of Heal Your Nervous System, a digital health startup that uses a combination of neuroscience and somatic work to help those struggling with overwhelm, trauma, burnout, and anxiety to heal their dysregulated nervous systems and thrive.This episode is particularly important to me because the more I have learned about the nervous system over the years, the more I have realized that one of the main barries that fundraisers face is that the work of fundraising can be very disregulating. And without the right understanding, tools and framework we don’t understand why we’re constantly experiencing low energy, dread, and burnout. We keep trying to manage our time, but I really think it’s all about how we manage our nervous system. During this conversation, Linnea teaches you how to regulate your nervous system so that you can handle stress and accomplish more without it leading you to dysregulation and burnout. She details the connection between trauma and burnout and shares her 5-step framework for healing your nervous system.Because of your brain’s neuroplasticity, we can reverse the damage that’s done when we feel overwhelmed or powerless. If you’ve been feeling powerless, constantly overwhelmed, or a lack of purpose in your role as a fundraiser, don’t worry. You’re not alone and there is a light at the end of the tunnel! These tips are just what you need.Get all the resources from today’s episode here. A big shout out to our sponsor Instil, the holistic tool that reimagines nonprofit technology in ways that deepen community relationships and nonprofit processes to magnify impact. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics supercharge donors, increase volunteer engagement, and smooth donor management and operations across your entire organization.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.

When it comes to non-profit work, your ability to fundraise is not possible if you do not prioritize your mental health and wellness. The clarity, energy, and ability you’re looking for does not reside in how much you push yourself, but how you take care of yourself.Here to unpack that is further is Rosa Julia Rivera, a clinical therapist and Co-Owner of Chicago Growth Mindset, a Latina-led private practice specializing in integrating workplace mental wellness programs and providing evidence-based behavioral healthcare for high stress professionals, community healers, leaders, and first responders.In this episode, Rosa offers you her expertise on creating a culture and mindset inside your organization that supports the health, wellness, and recovery of people in high stress, mission-driven positions. She also gives tangible advice on how to thrive and feel empowered as a development director in a non-profit, even if your boss doesn’t prioritize employee well-being. As we’re experiencing an unprecedented mental health crisis, and particularly high burnout across our sector, this episode is more critical than ever. And if you gain something from it, don’t hesitate to share it with a friend, coworker, or loved one you think would enjoy it.Get all the resources from today’s episode here. A big shout out to our sponsor Instil, the holistic tool that reimagines nonprofit technology in ways that deepen community relationships and nonprofit processes to magnify impact. The platform’s advanced UX design and real-time analytics supercharge donors, increase volunteer engagement, and smooth donor management and operations across your entire organization. learn more at instil.io/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.

Executing a successful fundraising event can be daunting, but there are simple strategies you can use to plan a highly engaging, creative, and enjoyable fundraiser with less stress and more ease.Meet A.J. Steinberg, CFRE, a non-profit event producer and engagement strategist who’s raised millions of dollars for organizations through her LA-based company, Queen Bee Fundraising. A.J. is an expert on non-profit event planning, event sponsorships, committee and volunteer leadership, generational giving, and guest engagement.  In this episode, you’ll learn A.J.’s best tips and strategies for planning and executing successful, engaging fundraising events – from free family events to exquisite galas. She touches on everything from creative sponsorship ideas to mobile bidding to preventing post-event burnout. Ready to start planning your next fundraising event? This episode is for you!Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Givebutter for making this episode possible. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to be a magnetic fundraiser. Their fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.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.

What does it mean to be a magnetic fundraiser? It means you attract abundance and connection instead of chasing it. Magnetic fundraisers are authentic, good listeners who prioritize meaningful connection with donors over outcomes. So, it’s possible to be fully authentic when asking people for money? Of course it is! Sara Lomelin, CEO of Philanthropy Together, is working to diversify and democratize philanthropy by creating the infrastructure needed for the giving circle model to flourish in all communities. Philanthropy Together is a global initiative, co-created by hundreds of giving circles and collective giving network leaders, to diversify and democratize philanthropy, help start new giving circles, and help existing giving circles thrive.In this episode, Sara describes her approach to being an authentic, magnetic fundraiser with an abundance mindset, instead of a transactional fundraiser in a scarcity mindset. She also talks about why giving circles are so successful at fundraising and building strong, authentic donor relationships. Tune in to learn Sara’s best tips and strategies for talking to donors, creating safe spaces for connection and transparency, and increasing both the effectiveness and the efficiency of your fundraising efforts.Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Givebutter for making this episode possible. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to be a magnetic fundraiser. Their fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.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.

What inspires donors to be deeply connected to causes and organizations? How can fundraisers shift from transactional donor relationships to more connected donor relationships? These are key questions whose answers shine light on our beliefs about generosity, problem solving, and non-profit success. Want to know more? Tune in to this episode with Paul Nazareth!Paul Nazareth is a Charity Sector Community Builder and VP of Education & Development at the Canadian Association of Gift Planners. Having been a philanthropic advisor for 15 years, working with a variety charities from universities to churches, Paul has a wealth of knowledge in non-profit leadership and creating a personal legacy through smart, generous giving. His insights can help us fundraisers approach fundraising with a new, more humanistic perspective.In this episode, Paul and I discuss what inspires donors to deeply connect with causes and organizations and how we can use this knowledge to optimize the impact of their donations. We talk about how fundraisers can reframe uncomfortable and vulnerable conversations with donors, particularly around death, legacy gifts, and gift planning. You’ll learn about the systems and structures that are needed to create the conditions for magnetic fundraising and how (when they are not there) it’s easy for fundraisers to stay in a transactional mindset. If we want fundraisers to be able to nurture human connection-based relationships we need to create the conditions for that success and there is a role we all can play in that. We also highlight a unique way to prevent burnout in fundraisers, so stay tuned!Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Givebutter for making this episode possible. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to be a magnetic fundraiser. Their fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.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.

Feeling overwhelmed, lost, or perfectionistic when it comes to managing your social media? Not sure if your Instagram or Facebook posts are giving you a good ROI? This episode is for you! Today’s guest will certainly ease your mind with her tips and strategies for creating an amazing social media management strategy.Julia Campbell, Founder of J Campbell Social Marketing, has helped hundreds of nonprofits make the shift to digital thinking. What does that mean? Julia enables nonprofits to build communities and fundraise online, all while creating engaging social media platforms for their donors to connect through. Her consulting team provides social media audits, customized recommendations and reports, helps you build your own social media team, and learn how to use storytelling to grow an audience and spread your message online.In this episode, Julia teaches you how to manage your nonprofit’s social media like a master. You’ll learn strategies for onboarding a social media manager, creating magnetic content to attract and engage donors, dealing with negative comments, telling client stories ethically, and much more.Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Many thanks to our sponsor, Givebutter for making this episode possible. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to be a magnetic fundraiser. Their fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.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.