
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

Jan 2, 2024 • 33min
164: The Motivation Matrix: Passion, Recognition, and Inclusivity in Nonprofit Leadership with Mijeong Kwon
Mijeong Kwon, an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Denver Business School, dives into the complex world of work motivation. She discusses 'passion exploitation,' where a love for one’s job may be taken for granted, and the moral implications tied to intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation. Kwon also sheds light on the delicate balance fundraisers face in staying motivated amid challenges, advocating for fair recognition of all motivators to foster a healthier nonprofit culture and prevent burnout.

Dec 14, 2023 • 31min
163: The People Behind the Products: Tech, Empathy, and Nonprofits: A Candid Conversation with Lauren Sheehan
Lauren Sheehan, President of DonorPerfect, discusses the intersection of technology, empathy, and nonprofit impact. Topics include AI in nonprofits, the importance of empathy in tech, and the relationship between technology companies and nonprofits.

Dec 13, 2023 • 25min
162: The People Behind the Products: How Technology Enhances Volunteer Management with Geng Wang
Simplify and enhance your volunteer management with Civic Champs' CEO Geng Wang as he revolutionizes nonprofit operations by streamlining communication, saving time, and addressing last-minute changes to drive impact for your mission.Geng Wang is the co-founder and CEO of Civic Champs, a ground-breaking platform designed to transform the way volunteer management is done in the non-profit sector. With a bold mission to provide an intuitive solution, Geng's vision is to significantly increase the impact of volunteering and reduce clerical work by nearly 85%. In just four years, Civic Champs technology has empowered hundreds of nonprofits across the United States, proving itself a catalyst for positive change and measurable results.In this episode, you will:
Discover volunteer management's central role in nonprofit organizations' functioning and growth.
Uncover effective strategies to streamline volunteer programs, promoting efficiency and seamless communication.
Learn about the strategic value of efficient volunteer management in achieving your organization's core goals.
Explore ways to integrate volunteer programs into your organization's operations for a profound impact.
Realize how technology can simplify and boost your organization's volunteer management framework.
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

4 snips
Dec 12, 2023 • 25min
161: The People Behind the Products: Amplify Your Nonprofit's Reach by Harnessing the Power of Influencer Marketing Success with Nick Lynch
Collidescope CEO Nick Lynch guides nonprofits on harnessing influencer collaborations. Learn about integrating influencers, valuable partnerships, and cost-effective approaches for advocacy.

Dec 7, 2023 • 23min
160: The People Behind the Products: Maximize Donor Engagement: Secrets to Modern Fundraising with Owen O'Doherty
Owen O'Doherty, an expert in modern fundraising and donor engagement, shares secrets to maximizing donor engagement in this podcast. Topics include exhibiting fundraising impact, engaging donors through storytelling and media, overcoming donor fatigue, and building relationships with donors.

Dec 6, 2023 • 25min
159: The People Behind the Products: Unveiling the Art and Science of AI-Assisted Creativity with Philip Deng
Philip Deng, Co-founder and CEO of Grantable, discusses the future of creative expression in the era of artificial intelligence. They explore how technology and AI can support the nonprofit sector and relieve the burden of repetitive storytelling. The conversation also delves into the effects of AI on perfectionism and content creation in small nonprofits, highlighting the importance of human creativity. The speaker touches on timing and call-to-action for listeners, providing additional resources about the guest and Grantable.

Dec 5, 2023 • 24min
158: The People Behind the Products: Utilizing Technology to Enhance Donor Connection and Annual Reports with Josh Kligman
Josh Kligman, CEO of Yearly, discusses the transformative power of storytelling in nonprofit annual reports. Topics include challenges in report creation, transition to digital platforms, strategic use of storytelling, overcoming resistance to technology adoption, responsible use of AI in fundraising, advancements in technology, and bridging the technology gap in nonprofit sector.

Nov 28, 2023 • 9min
157: Boost Your GivingTuesday With a Four-year-old's Words of Affirmation With Emmie Erickson
Four-year-old Emmie Erickson, daughter of Mallory Erickson, offers wisdom and positivity to fundraisers on GivingTuesday. They discuss challenges and give advice from the book 'It's Okay to Make Mistakes.' Topics include bravery, love, joy, embracing mistakes, seeking help, and affirmations.

Nov 21, 2023 • 28min
156: A Deep Dive into Parenthood, Fundraising, and Professional Growth in the Nonprofit Landscape with Lacey Kempinski
Lacey Kempinski, a dynamic force in the non-profit sector, discusses the challenges of balancing parenting and fundraising. She shares the importance of intentional onboarding processes, the need for parental leave coverage, and the significance of workplace support. Lacey also emphasizes building a strong support system, maintaining clear communication with employers, and embracing a growth mindset for personal and professional development.

11 snips
Nov 14, 2023 • 32min
155: Estate Planning for Equity with Cecilia Amo
Join us for an insightful discussion with Cecilia Amo, an attorney who focuses on estate planning. Discover how estate planning goes beyond financial wealth to protect loved ones, preserve values, and create lasting impacts in the community. Explore the flaws in typical estate planning experiences, the importance of building partnerships, and creating generational wealth. Gain insights on approaching difficult conversations about estate planning, addressing equity and bias, and the importance of education. Plus, find valuable resources and a free webinar on prioritization in fundraising.