
What the Fundraising
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.
Latest episodes

May 21, 2024 • 28min
184: Emotional Intelligence, Relationships, and Inner Healing with Haley Cooper
Are you eager to understand your emotions better, improve your relationships, and begin a journey of personal growth and healing? Get ready for a journey through the intricate dynamics of human relationships, exploring how emotions shape our interactions and influence our behaviors.Meet Haley Cooper, a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Certified Stress Management Coach, and Certified EmC Train the Trainer—the driving force behind The Savvy Fundraiser, an esteemed nonprofit consulting and coaching business committed to uplifting nonprofit leaders. With a deep-rooted passion for effecting positive change, Haley has emerged as a seasoned expert within the nonprofit realm, fueled by a mission to cultivate thriving organizations.In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the impact of emotional intelligence on personal and professional life.
Learn strategies for fostering empathy and effective communication in teams.
Explore Emotional Connection Leadership (EMC) and its role in relationships.
Discover the importance of naming emotions for emotional balance.
Utilize journaling, meditation, and support for emotional healing.
Prioritize expressing impact over feedback for conflict resolution.
Embrace vulnerability and self-discovery in navigating emotions.
Apply principles for enhancing emotional wellness and relationships.
This week's episode is sponsored by DonorPerfect. DonorPerfect's Community Conference is igniting a passion for change! This year's event, on June 4th & 5th, will equip you with the tools to excel in donor management, program innovation, community engagement, and organizational growth.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

May 14, 2024 • 28min
183: Embrace Joy and Self-care as Essential Components of Success with Kishshana Palmer
This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on their journey towards leadership, wellness, and joy. Meet Today's guest, Kishshana Palmer, CEO of ManageMint, Inc., renowned keynote speaker, and TEDx alumna. With her expertise in leadership and wellness, she transforms leaders and energizes events worldwide. As a trusted advisor to executive leaders, Kishshana brings passion and authenticity to every interaction. Moreover, her commitment to growth, wellness, and impact shines through in her work, making her a sought-after partner for organizations seeking transformation.In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the importance of self-care and self-awareness in today's fast-paced world.
Explore the intersection between wellness and joy.
Reconsider the relationship with one's body and mind, recognizing the significance of mindfulness and self-awareness.
Challenge the notion that self-care is solely a reward for productivity, instead emphasizing its intrinsic value.
Prioritize joy and self-worth as essential components of authentic leadership.
Recognize the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in effective leadership.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by DonorPerfect. DonorPerfect's Community Conference is igniting a passion for change! This year's event, on June 4th & 5th, will equip you with the tools to excel in donor management, program innovation, community engagement, and organizational growth.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.

May 7, 2024 • 30min
182: Compassionate Chronicles: Stories of Empathy and Service with Julia Endicott
In this heartwarming podcast episode, join Julia Endicott, a compassionate and insightful 10-year-old, as she shares her inspiring journey of empathy and service. Julia opens up about her deep love for animals, particularly her beloved dog Dixie, and her passion for making a difference in their lives. Julia exemplifies the power of kindness and generosity from her involvement with the local Humane Society to her monthly donations and volunteer work.Through engaging conversations, Julia reflects on the significance of empathy and storytelling in understanding the experiences of others. She shares how hearing stories about rescued animals or individuals facing homelessness has shaped her perspective and fueled her desire to give back to her community. With genuine warmth and wisdom beyond her years, Julia emphasizes the importance of looking beyond surface judgments and embracing compassion.Join Julia on her journey of empathy and discovery, and be inspired to make a difference in the world, one act of kindness at a time!In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the importance of empathy in fostering connections and relationships.
Recognize the transformative impact of acts of kindness on individuals and communities.
Appreciate the power of storytelling in shaping perspective and empathy.
Gain insights into the significance of volunteerism and community service in creating positive change.
Reflect on personal experiences and values to cultivate compassion and generosity.
Be inspired to take action and make a difference in the world through small acts of kindness.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/malloryConnect 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

Apr 30, 2024 • 23min
181: Driving Positive Social Change through Compassionate Leadership with Alyssia Palacios-Woods
Let us delve deep into the transformative power of compassionate and strategic leadership in driving positive social change!In this episode, we explore the dynamic synergy between empathy and authenticity, uncovering their pivotal role in driving substantial impact within non-profit organizations and communities. Today, we converse with Alyssia Palacios-Woods, the Executive Director at Capital IDEA, who sheds light on harnessing these twin forces for meaningful change.Alyssia boasts over ten years of experience fostering workforce development initiatives in Central Texas, embodying the roles of a community builder and non-profit leader. With a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation, she remains steadfast in adhering to the highest standards of non-profit operations and fundraising. Notably, before her tenure at Capital IDEA, she led the Austin Young Chamber as its President & CEO, advocating for regional cooperation, fostering entrepreneurship, nurturing talent, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Alyssia's dedication extends to her involvement in various initiatives, including the Opening Central Texas for Business Task Force during COVID-19 recovery, the Austin Homelessness Task Force, and the National YP Week Advisory Council. Also, her contributions have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her nomination for the Austin Business Journal Profiles in Power in 2019 and her recognition as a finalist for Austin Under 40 in 2023. In this episode, you will be able to:
Discover strategic planning and community engagement tactics used by non-profits.
Recognize the hurdles and triumphs in leading an established non-profit.
Learn practical ways to form genuine connections with donors and stakeholders.
Understand sustainable methods for securing long-term funding.
Adapt to change and maintain resilience in challenging circumstances.
Appreciate the value of empathy in organizational leadership.
Develop strategies for navigating uncertain times while staying mission-focused.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/malloryConnect 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

Apr 23, 2024 • 31min
180: The Impact of Monthly Giving with Caitlin Wion
Whether you are a nonprofit professional seeking to enhance your monthly giving program or a donor looking to make a meaningful impact, this episode promises to inspire and inform!Meet Caitlin Wion, Data Manager at Alzheimer's San Diego, who brings a rich background in museums and academia, complemented by a Master's degree in history, to her role. Her transition into the nonprofit sector was sparked by witnessing friends' satisfaction in similar database-related positions, leading her to join the team in 2018. In her role, Caitlin ensures the accuracy and currency of client and donor records, leveraging her problem-solving skills honed from previous experiences. Beyond the administrative tasks, Caitlin finds fulfillment in event interactions, relishing the opportunity to engage with the community firsthand. Driven by a personal connection to Alzheimer's, Caitlin's grandmother's battle with the disease also fuels her passion for the organization's mission.In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the importance of seamless integration of monthly giving into operations.
Recognize the impact of monthly donations on organizational programs.
Learn strategies for building community among monthly donors.
Discover the benefits of donor segmentation and personalized communication.
Appreciate the value of a soft ask approach in fundraising communications.
Learn to leverage automation tools while maintaining a personal touch.
Understand the importance of data analysis in refining strategies.
Recognize the significance of offering donors choices in giving preferences.
Appreciate the importance of prioritizing donor experience for engagement.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/malloryConnect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryericksonFacebook: 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

Apr 16, 2024 • 51min
179: Decoding Generosity with GivingTuesday's Chief Data Officer, Woodrow Rosenbaum
In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast,Revolutionize your approach to donor engagement and inspire new strategies for fostering lasting connections with supporters!Today, we are joined by Woodrow Rosenbaum, GivingTuesday's Chief Data Officer. Woodrow has been instrumental in shaping the global generosity movement and has led ground-breaking research and analysis of individual giving behaviors. He leads the GivingTuesday Data Commons, bringing together a coalition of more than 1,000 collaborators coordinated through eight working groups as well as data teams in 50 countries to understand the drivers and impacts of generosity to inspire more giving of all types. Woodrow brings expertise in moving markets and transforming audiences from passive participants to active and vocal ambassadors. Woodrow is also the founder of With Intent Strategies, an international agency specializing in brand reimagination.Woodrow is a member of the Generosity Commission Research Task Force, serves as a Co-Chair for Global Impact Canada's Board of Directors, and was previously a Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School. In this episode, you will be able to:
Appreciate the diverse ways in which people express generosity.
Understand the dynamic nature of giving patterns.
Recognize the importance of adapting strategies to match evolving giving patterns.
Explore the role of guilt, motivation, and belonging in donor decision-making.
Challenge common assumptions about the drivers of giving.
Recognize Giving Tuesday's potential as a catalyst for sustained engagement.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/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

Apr 9, 2024 • 36min
178: Transforming Fundraising: Bridging Donor-Centric and Community-Centric Approaches with Rachel D'Souza
Embrace a revolutionary fundraising approach that champions equity, transparency, and authentic collaboration with communities. Together, let's spark impactful change with Rachel D'Souza!Rachel D'Souza is a pioneering force in the nonprofit realm, renowned for her transformative initiatives. As the founder of Gladiator Consulting, she spearheads innovative strategies for nonprofits nationwide. Rachel is a trailblazer in the Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) movement, advocating for radical collaboration, racial equity, and social justice. Her leadership extends to the global stage as a member of the CCF Global Council. Rachel is also the president-elect of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater St. Louis Regional Chapter. Committed to nurturing future leaders, she actively engages with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network and EPIP. In this episode, you will be able to:
Critically evaluate the dichotomy between donor-centric and community-centric fundraising models.
Recognize power dynamics and systemic challenges embedded within fundraising practices.
Understand the importance of authentic relationships and transparent communication in fundraising efforts.
Explore the concepts of honesty, vulnerability, and inclusivity in the context of fundraising.
Evaluate fundraising strategies to align them with community needs and values.
Apply practical advice for implementing justice-oriented approaches in fundraising.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/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.

Apr 2, 2024 • 38min
177: Prioritizing Racial Equity, Boundaries and Self-Care in Fundraising with Kia Croom
Are you ready to challenge the status quo and thrive against the odds in fundraising?Join us for an eye-opening podcast episode featuring Kia Croom, a trailblazing fundraising expert with over two decades of experience. In this enlightening conversation, Kia fearlessly addresses the challenges facing black and brown leaders in the nonprofit sector while emphasizing the critical importance of boundaries and self-care.Kia's extensive portfolio spans diverse causes such as STEM, housing, youth development, education, and HIV/AIDS. Kia excels in forging impactful corporate partnerships and is proficient in major gifts, grant writing, creative messaging, and digital marketing. Moreover, Kia ardently champions racial and philanthropic justice, focusing on combatting anti-Black racism by bolstering Black-led nonprofit organizations. In this episode, you will be able to:
Understand the challenges for black and brown leaders in nonprofits.
Learn the importance of setting boundaries and self-care in fundraising.
Explore DEI's role in fundraising.
Prioritize racial equity and justice in nonprofits.
Recognize the harms of overwork, especially for marginalized groups.
Discover strategies for self-preservation in fundraising.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free 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/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

Mar 26, 2024 • 31min
176: Unveiling Capital Campaign Insights with Steven Shattuck
Join us on an enchanting journey as our guest today, Steven Shattuck, unveils the secrets of capital campaigns, igniting a spark of creativity and innovation. Together, let's embark on a quest to redefine fundraising excellence, guided by wisdom and inspired by possibility. It's time to unlock the hidden treasures that await those who dare to dream big and strive for greatness!Steven Shattuck is the Director of Engagement at Capital Campaign Pro, where his expertise shapes strategies for effective donor communications, data management, and digital content. With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Steven is a recognized thought leader renowned for his insightful contributions. He has authored compelling content for esteemed platforms like the National Council of Nonprofits, AFP, Advancing Philanthropy, NTEN, and Nonprofit Hub. As a dynamic presenter, Steven frequently leads webinars and speaks at prestigious conferences, including AFP ICON, NAYDO, Cause Camp, ADRP, the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, and Planet Philanthropy. Additionally, he is the author of Robots Make Bad Fundraisers: How Nonprofits Can Maintain the Heart in the Digital Age.In this episode, you will be able to:
Appreciate the value of research and data in dispelling fundraising myths and guiding decisions.
Recognize the importance of board engagement in capital campaign success.
Evaluate the effectiveness of pausing a capital campaign amidst external challenges.
Learn strategies for maintaining momentum in fundraising efforts during crises.
Explore the concept of non-transactional fundraising relationships and their impact on donor engagement.
Identify best practices for successful fundraising endeavors in the nonprofit sector.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free 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/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

Mar 19, 2024 • 27min
175: Motivation Dynamics in Successful Fundraising Campaigns with Szu-chi Huang
In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast,From the initial spark igniting a cause to the crescendo of community support, navigating the twists and turns of motivation paves the path toward fundraising triumph!In today's episode, Dr. Szu-chi Huang, an esteemed researcher in motivation science, delves into the intricacies of sustaining motivation throughout fundraising campaigns. Her research centers on the science of motivation, particularly exploring the temporal and social aspects of striving towards goals. She uses experiments to examine causal processes closely and field studies to test these findings in the real world, such as launching loyalty programs with companies and conducting intervention campaigns with nonprofit organizations like UNICEF.In this episode, you will be able to:
Recognize the dynamic nature of motivation in fundraising campaigns.
Tailor strategies for each stage of the fundraising campaign.
Reframe success as a continuous journey rather than a singular destination.
Utilize reflection and collective sharing to maintain momentum.
Leverage diverse tools and resources to sustain motivation.
Get all the resources from today’s episode here. Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free 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/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