

What the Fundraising
Mallory Erickson
What the Fundraising is the podcast for impact leaders and change-makers who are tired of doing things the old school way and are looking for best practices to raise money, run their organization, and think about the nonprofit sector in a whole new way. Every Tuesday for 40-60 min, your host, Mallory Erickson, will be having real and raw conversations with some of the best personal and professional development experts, many of whom are outside the nonprofit sector. These are bestselling authors, world-renowned researchers, and TEDx experts, most of whom have never spoken to a non-profit audience before. They have come ready to share expertise, lessons, and stories that will fundamentally change the way you show up as a leader and fundraiser.There are so many valuable lessons nonprofit leaders are missing because they are outside of their typical orbit, but no more. Mallory is bringing them in and helping to apply her guest's expertise to disrupt the nonprofit sector once and for all.So if you are ready to learn how to upgrade your fundraising strategy, leadership skills, energy, habits, and mindset to bring in more funding and actually have some fun doing it, then this is the right podcast for you.If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 29, 2024 • 48min
211: Systemic Change in Nonprofits with Michelle Flores Vryn
In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast,Mallory is joined by Michelle Flores Vryn, Head of Development at iNaturalist, about systemic challenges within the nonprofit sector. Michelle brings insights from her 15+ years in marketing, communications, and fundraising, emphasizing the critical need for a shift in nonprofit approaches to problem-solving, retention, and scaling. She is currently head of development at iNaturalist, as well as a changemaker on the AFP global board of directors and a Texas chapter organizer for community-centric fundraising.Together, they delve into pressing issues like fundraisers' burnout, systemic structures that hinder nonprofits, and the sector’s struggle between scaling and driving real systems change. By setting achievable goals, embracing fresh ideas, and nurturing inner growth, fundraisers can tackle systemic challenges and drive meaningful change, transforming the nonprofit landscape into one that thrives on support and shared purpose!Key takeaways from the episode:
Recognize the role of community support in fundraising.
Explore the link between job stressors and burnout.
Distinguish between budget scaling and systems change.
Address root causes of nonprofit issues.
Promote sustainable practices through leadership.
Acknowledge generational shifts in workforce expectations.
Encourage cultural change in fundraising.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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

Oct 22, 2024 • 54min
210: Leveraging Behavioral Science to Overcome Fundraising Challenges with Piyush Tantia and Sarah Welch
Piyush Tantia, Chief Innovation Officer at ideas42, and Sarah Welch, Associate Managing Director at ideas42, join today's conversation to discuss how behavioral science principles can enhance fundraising efforts. Together, they explore strategies fundraisers can use to stay motivated, manage tasks effectively, and overcome stressors like fear and uncertainty.In this episode, you will be able to:
Learn how behavioral science improves fundraising effectiveness.
Discover strategies for staying motivated and managing tasks.
Understand how fear and uncertainty lead to task avoidance.
Explore techniques for reducing burnout and stress.
Recognize the power of storytelling in fundraising.
Reframe negative emotions like shame and pressure constructively.
Streamline communication and manage fundraising's emotional toll.
Address resistance by understanding underlying behavioral causes.
Design solutions to overcome stress and fear in fundraising.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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

Oct 17, 2024 • 36min
209: System Catalysts - How to Invest in a Moral Revolution with Jacqueline Novogratz
In this bonus episode of What the Fundraising, please enjoy an episode of the System Catalyst podcast with Jeff Walker and English Sall. They interview Jacqueline Novogratz, founder and CEO of Acumen, a global leader in impact investing. Jacqueline shares her journey over the past 30 years, exploring how Acumen uses innovative patient capital to create real systems change. By investing in companies that tackle critical issues like climate change, energy access, and poverty alleviation, Acumen has provided pathways for social entrepreneurs to thrive.In this episode, you'll hear:
The origins and evolution of impact investing, with Acumen at the forefront.
How patient capital fuels long-term social change.
The necessity of partnerships with governments, corporations, and investors.
Jacqueline’s reflections on building systems that prioritize people, dignity, and moral imagination.
If you like what you hear, Follow this link to subscribe to System Catalysts.System Catalysts is produced by Hueman Group Media. Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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.

Oct 15, 2024 • 29min
208: Navigating AI Fears: Strengthening Nonprofits Through Technology and Human Touch with Seth Godin & Floyd Jones
This week’s episode shares a sensational live conversation Mallory had with Seth Godin and Floyd Jones, focusing on exploring the impact of AI on productivity and community building.Seth Godin is an author, entrepreneur, and teacher. He is the founder of the Carbon Almanac, a guide to understanding climate change. Seth has inspired and motivated many people all around the world by focusing on everything from leadership and efficient marketing to spreading ideas and changing things. In 2013, the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame recognized only three practitioners, including Seth. Floyd Jones is a speaker, social impact leader, creator, and community builder. He is the Director of Community & Partnerships at Givebutter, the world's first entirely free end-to-end fundraising platform. He supports the community team's growth strategy through partnerships, sponsorships, strategic campaigns, and special events.In this episode, you will be able to:
The importance of staying true to innovations rather than adopting existing methods.
The necessity of overcoming the fear of the unknown.
The importance of prioritizing human connection in fundraising.
How to embrace the AI.
How AI affects the transparency.
Why is it important to remember the power of people?
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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.

Oct 8, 2024 • 48min
207: The Culture of Fundraising: Storytelling, Trust, and Identity with Marcus Collins
In this episode, Mallory and her guest, Dr. Marcus Collins, explores the profound influence of culture on human behavior in fundraising. They discuss how cultural norms shape our perceptions and actions, the distinction between fast and slow culture, and the importance of storytelling in redefining the nonprofit sector. The dialogue emphasizes the need for small, incremental changes to foster a more positive culture around giving and fundraising, ultimately aiming to create a more engaged and generous society.Dr. Marcus Collins is an award-winning marketer and cultural translator. He is the former chief strategy officer at Wieden+Kennedy, New York, a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, and the author of the best-selling book, For The Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want To Be. Key takeaways from the episode:
Culture is the most influential force on human behavior.
Understanding culture requires a shared definition.
Cultural lenses affect how we perceive and interact with the world.
Social norms guide our behavior in various contexts.
Fast culture changes quickly, while slow culture evolves gradually.
Fundraising practices are deeply influenced by cultural beliefs.
Positive experiences in giving can reshape perceptions of philanthropy.
Storytelling is essential for nonprofits to connect with their audience.
Small changes can lead to significant cultural shifts over time.
Agency in giving is crucial for fostering genuine generosity.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Support for this show is brought to you by GiveButter. GiveButter is the easiest-to-use fundraising platform. Your favorite fundraising tools, supercharged! Never miss a fundraising opportunity again. Givebutter Plus takes this award-winning platform to the next level with advanced automation, deeper donor insights, and eye-popping supporter engagement tools to help your nonprofit get ahead—and stay there.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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

Oct 1, 2024 • 43min
206: Enablement vs Empowering: Finding Alignment in Fundraising with Jess Spino
In this episode, Mallory is joined by her COO Jess Spino. Jess and Mallory switch things up with a podcast takeover where Jess interviews Mallory. Listen to hear about the journey they’ve been on together over the past year of working together, and the dynamic of their partnership. Mallory also shares many sneak peeks into her book What The Fundraising, out now! Explore Mallory’s expertise on the difference between enabling vs empowering, creating meaningful connections and nurturing after burnout. In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the significance of "enable" over "empower" in fundraising.
Explore the importance of aligning values in storytelling.
Acknowledge the role of individual connections in building donor trust.
Balance work and personal life to prevent burnout and promote joy.
Create meaningful connections through intentional storytelling.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by DonorPerfect. Support for this show is brought to you by DonorPerfect. Our friends at DonorPerfect really understand fundraising on so many levels.Stay aligned while working online with a seamless and secure payments experience for your donors and your team.Empower donors to give where they are, whenever they like, automate data entry, and process online, monthly, and mobile payments, and accept payments over the phone.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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

Sep 24, 2024 • 55min
205: Empowering Fundraisers through AI Innovation and Inner Alignment with Tim Lockie
In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast..This episode features a conversation from Mallory's recent appearance on Fundraising.AI LIVE with Tim Lockie!Today's discussion focuses on Mallory's insights into integrating AI within the nonprofit sector, especially in fundraising, while highlighting the challenges nonprofit leaders encounter. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the power of listening to one's inner voice, even in the face of fear, as a path to deeper self-alignment and lasting personal freedom—a message Mallory conveys with passion, drawn from her own experiences and reflections!In this episode, you will be able to:
Learn more about the FAI Summit
Recognize the Role of Vulnerability in Leadership
Balance Technological Efficiency with Human Connection
Explore the Importance of Safe Learning Environments
Discover the Importance of Inner Wisdom and Courage in Decision-Making
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Reserve your spot for the Fundraising AI Summit here.Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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

Sep 17, 2024 • 30min
204: A Deep Dive into Monthly Giving with Dana Snyder
Dana Snyder, CEO & Founder of Positive Equation, specializes in empowering nonprofits through innovative fundraising strategies. In this insightful discussion, she emphasizes the importance of flexible giving options and the power of storytelling to connect with donors. Dana advocates for the creation of supportive networks and the use of donor data to identify potential monthly supporters. She also shares practical advice on setting micro goals to build momentum while viewing donor relationships as opportunities for growth.

Sep 10, 2024 • 53min
203: The Importance of Finding Alignment in your Funder Partners with Andrea Bouch
Andrea Bouch, a seasoned leader in social impact and tech, discusses her unique journey in navigating the complexities of corporate philanthropy. She highlights the balance between personal connections and strategic focus while engaging with frustrated fundraisers. Andrea emphasizes the importance of empathy, genuine curiosity, and authenticity in building effective partnerships. She explores the nuances of working with individual donors versus family foundations, advocating for alignment and open communication to foster meaningful relationships.

Sep 3, 2024 • 28min
202: Leadership Transitions and Personal Mission with Amber Melanie Smith
This episode of the What the Fundraising podcast features Amber Melanie Smith. She is a speaker, award-winning nonprofit founder, social entrepreneur, and social impact YouTuber. Moreover, Amber empowers individuals to craft a life and career dedicated to creating positive social change through her growing online community, speaking engagements, and educational content.Tune in to explore Amber's journey, learn from her experiences, and discover strategies for aligning personal passions with professional pursuits! In this episode, you will be able to:
Uncover the impact of leadership transition on organizational effectiveness.
Identify and address burnout in leadership roles.
Examine the importance of aligning personal work style with organizational needs.
Explore how to manage the emotional challenges of leaving a long-term role.
Learn ways to clarify and stay true to your personal mission.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by DonorPerfect. Remember, every powerful movement starts with a single spark.Your expertise is that spark! Head over to donorperfect.com/donorperfect-conference to register today!Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/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