Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell

Samantha Swaim, co-host of The Fundraising Elevator podcast and a seasoned consultant with 20 years in nonprofit fundraising, discusses the evolving landscape of fundraising events in 2025. She emphasizes the strong comeback of in-person gatherings and the importance of balancing virtual, hybrid, and live formats. Swaim shares data-driven strategies to maximize event ROI, tackles donor fatigue, and highlights the rising trust in nonprofits. For anyone in the nonprofit sector, her insights on storytelling and innovative event themes are invaluable!

David Hartstein, co-founder of Wired Impact, shares his expertise on crafting effective nonprofit websites. He discusses common pitfalls that lead to cluttered, unengaging sites and how to fix them. Listeners learn the critical role websites play in driving donations and engagement. Hartstein emphasizes the importance of accessibility, clear messaging, and user-friendly designs. He also offers strategic tips for planning website projects that resonate with audiences and enhance nonprofits' online presence.

In a world where burnout is the norm and rest is often seen as a luxury, how can changemakers sustain their well-being while making an impact? Meico Marquette Whitlock—a workplace well-being strategist, mindfulness teacher, and recovering workaholic—joins us to explore how mission-driven professionals can prioritize self-care without guilt and create a culture of well-being in their organizations.We dive deep into:✔️ Reconnecting to Your WHY when the work feels overwhelming✔️ Creating a sustainable culture of well-being at work (beyond wellness perks)✔️ Self-care strategies for challenging times—even when resources are tight✔️ Navigating social impact grief and processing the emotional weight of change-making✔️ Digital well-being in a hyperconnected world—how to stay engaged without burning outIf you’re struggling to balance mission and mental health, this episode is for you.Hit play now, then Subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!Watch the LinkedIn Live video recording. Meico Marquette Whitlock (he/him) is the founder and CEO of Mindful Techie and a certified trauma-informed mindfulness teacher. As a recovering workaholic and former nonprofit and government techie, he helps leaders and teams improve their well-being so they can increase their well-doing. He’s the author of How to Thrive When Work Doesn’t Love You Back and The Intention Planner and has worked with organizations like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Cigna, and Greenpeace. His insights have been featured on ABC News, Fox 5, and Radio One. Outside of work, Meico is a former triathlete, salsa dancer, and maker of the world’s best vegan chili!🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

As AI continues to reshape industries—including the nonprofit sector—how can we ensure that technology serves people, rather than the other way around? In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, we dive into the intersection of artificial intelligence and human-centered work with Tim Lockie, founder of The Human Stack and creator of the AI for Anyone course. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit technology space, Tim has helped organizations transition from being tech-resistant to tech-resilient.Tim shares his insights on leveraging AI in a way that enhances human connection, decision-making, and impact. Whether you're skeptical of AI or eager to integrate it into your work, this conversation will provide practical strategies for maintaining a people-first approach in an increasingly digital world.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why AI is a tool, not a replacement for human connectionHow nonprofits can use AI without losing their core missionThe biggest challenges organizations face when adopting AIPractical tips for using AI ethically and effectivelyInsights from Tim’s AI for Anyone course and how it empowers people to engage with AI confidentlyAbout Tim Lockie:Tim Lockie is a nonprofit technology expert and the founder of The Human Stack, an organization dedicated to helping nonprofits develop tech resilience. He created AI for Anyone, a course designed to make AI accessible to people at all technical levels. With a background as a former Salesforce MVP and Microsoft Partner, Tim has guided thousands of professionals in using technology to create positive social impact.Resources & Links:Tim Lockie’s Website: The Human StackAI for Anyone Course: Enroll hereConnect with Tim on LinkedIn: Tim Lockie on LinkedInFollow The Human Stack on Twitter: @TheHumanStackCassidy: https://www.cassidyai.com/?via=thehumanstack🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What if businesses existed solely to give back? That’s the revolutionary idea behind the 100% for Purpose business model—one pioneered by Paul Newman over 40 years ago and now embraced by companies like Patagonia and Bloomberg.In this episode, we’re joined by Alex Amouyel, CEO of Newman’s Own Foundation, to discuss how philanthropy and business can intersect in a way that truly serves communities. We dive deep into how Paul Newman reversed traditional governance by giving his for-profit company to a nonprofit—a move that wasn’t even legal at the time! Alex shares insights on why more companies are adopting this model, the challenges they face, and how philanthropy itself is evolving to become more inclusive and community-driven.🌍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ How Paul Newman’s bold decision reshaped philanthropy✔️ Why companies like Patagonia are following the 100% for Purpose model✔️ How nonprofits can own and govern for-profit businesses for social good✔️ What democratizing philanthropy looks like and why participatory giving is the future✔️ The challenges and opportunities of funding a mission-driven organizationAbout Alex AmouyelAlex Amouyel is the President and CEO of Newman’s Own Foundation and the author of The Answer Is You: A Guidebook to Creating a Life Full of Impact. She leads the Foundation’s efforts to continue its commitment to use 100% of profits from the sale of Newman’s Own food and beverage products to nourish and transform the lives of children who face adversity.Resources & Links:🔗 Newman’s Own Foundation – Learn about their mission and impact🔗 Paul Newman’s Legacy – How his vision shaped philanthropy🔗 MIT Solve – Alex’s work in driving innovation for global challenges🔗https://www.100forpurpose.org/ 🔗Alex’s TED Talk🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Shilpa Alva is the visionary founder of Surge for Water, a women-led, women-centered nonprofit dedicated to providing marginalized global communities with access to safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health solutions. Under Shilpa’s leadership, Surge has impacted over 1 million lives and created more than 2,000 community jobs, while advancing sustainable water equity around the globe.Shilpa’s journey—from her background in engineering and corporate consulting to full-time social entrepreneurship—is a compelling example of how diverse experiences can lead to impactful change. We explore:The critical importance of water equity and its connection to global health, education, and economic development.How Surge for Water’s innovative, community-led solutions are transforming lives in marginalized communities.Shilpa’s unique leadership perspective and her advice for aspiring social entrepreneurs.Don’t miss this powerful conversation about the intersection of water sustainability, advocacy, and the global fight for equity.Links & Resources:Shilpa Alva on LinkedInhttps://surgeforwater.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/shilpa-alva-858b841/  Shilpa Alva at TEDx🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What if mentorship could help you grow your career, and your fundraising bottom line?  This week, I’m joined by the amazing Ken Miller, CFRE—a powerhouse in the nonprofit world and a true advocate for professional growth. Ken is the president of Denali FSP Fundraising & Grant Consultants, a fundraising consultancy he founded in 2014 after a long and successful career in development. He’s also deeply involved in leadership roles with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and other organizations working to advance equity and excellence in philanthropy.In our conversation, Ken shares his wisdom on mentoring, coaching, and workplace sponsorship—three powerful tools for helping fundraising professionals thrive. We explore what makes these relationships so valuable, how to find the right mentors and sponsors, and why they’re game-changers for anyone looking to grow in their career. Ken also opens up about his personal journey, lessons learned, and his passion for mentoring the next generation of nonprofit leaders.If you’re in the nonprofit sector—or considering it—this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration to help you take your career to the next level.Connect with Ken on LinkedIn. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The difference between mentoring, coaching, and sponsorship—and why all three matter.How to find mentors and sponsors who align with your goals and values.Why workplace sponsors can open doors that mentorship alone might not.Ken’s personal insights on supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion through mentorship.Practical tips for mentoring others and building meaningful professional relationships.🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Bethany Snyder, founder of Snyder Strategies, LLC, and a seasoned advocate with nearly 25 years in the field, joins to discuss the impact of executive orders on nonprofits. She highlights strategies for organizations to prepare for policy shifts and respond quickly to crises. Key topics include the differentiation between executive orders and laws, the importance of rapid response plans, and the need for collaboration among nonprofits to influence change. Bethany emphasizes self-care for nonprofit workers amid these challenges and advocates for transparency with stakeholders.

AI is reshaping the nonprofit sector, from improving efficiency to revolutionizing donor engagement—but how do we ensure it’s done ethically and effectively? 65% of nonprofits using AI report improvements in efficiency and productivity, with the biggest wins in communication and data analysis​. But 42% of nonprofits cite ethical concerns, such as data privacy and bias, as barriers to adoption​.This week, we’re joined by Josh Hirsch, aka “The AI Dude,” a seasoned nonprofit strategist with over 17 years of experience. Josh is the Education and Training Strategist at FundRaise Up, a faculty member at Indiana University’s Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, and the host of The AI Dude Podcast. He’s dedicated to helping nonprofits navigate the intersection of technology and philanthropy.Drawing insights from Josh’s expertise and the latest research, we’ll explore how AI can help nonprofits work smarter, not harder, while staying mission-focused. With 65% of nonprofits reporting tangible benefits like increased efficiency and productivity, and only 2% fully adopting AI, there’s plenty of room for growth and learning.What You’ll Learn:How AI can help nonprofits overcome resource constraints and improve operations.Why starting with operational efficiency is the best first step for AI adoption.The ethical challenges of AI—like data privacy and bias—and how nonprofits can tackle them head-on.Real-world examples of AI creating meaningful change in nonprofit operations, from content creation to donor communication.About Josh Hirsch:Josh Hirsch is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 17 years of experience. He serves as the Education and Training Strategist at FundRaise Up and is a faculty member at The Fund Raising School at Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Josh also leads The AI Dude, a consulting firm dedicated to helping nonprofits harness the power of artificial intelligence. A skilled strategist and communicator, he specializes in AI, digital marketing, and social media, empowering organizations to thrive in the digital age.Links & Resources Mentioned:Josh Hirsch’s Website: TheAIDude.aiBlog: Building Capacity with AIBlog: AI for Nonprofit Decision-MakingFundRaise UpIndiana University Lilly Family School of PhilanthropyDoes cybersecurity seem like a terrifying topic? Don’t worry—we’re here to make it a smash hit! This episode is brought to you by RoundTable Technology—the Nonprofit IT Partner. For the tenth year in a row, they’re back with their FREE annual webinar, and this time, it’s bigger and bolder with a 2025 twist: Cyber Karaoke!That’s right—RoundTable Technology is turning up the volume to teach you and your team exactly how to make your nonprofit more secure in the New Year, all while keeping things fun and engaging. With over 200 nonprofit clients, they know how to help organizations like yours hit all the right notes when it comes to cybersecurity.Make it your New Year’s resolution to give your entire staff FREE cybersecurity awareness training. Don’t miss the encore—head over to NonprofitIT.com/best-everTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

In this episode, we explore the art of scaling nonprofit impact with Dr. Johanna Moya Fábregas, executive director of Con Mi Madre. This Central Texas nonprofit empowers Latina girls and their mothers, combining social-emotional learning with college readiness. But the strategies Johanna shares extend far beyond one mission—her expertise in storytelling, partnership building, and inclusive leadership offers actionable insights for nonprofit professionals of all kinds.You’ll learn how to:Build trust with your target audience to create generational impact.Use storytelling as a tool for fundraising and community engagement.Measure program outcomes effectively to secure funding and support.Lead with resilience and clarity in a mission-driven organization.Whether you’re focused on fundraising, marketing, or executive strategy, Johanna’s leadership insights will inspire and inform your work.About Johanna Moya FábregasJohanna Moya Fábregas, Ph.D., is a dedicated Latin American immigrant with 20 years of experience in education. She currently serves as the executive director of Con Mi Madre (CMM), a non-profit organization operating in Central Texas. CMM partners with local school districts to provide a curriculum focused on social-emotional learning and college readiness to students from 6th grade through their college years. Drawing on her extensive background in non-profit work, higher education, and public education, Johanna emphasizes collaboration across various sectors. Her key areas of focus include intercultural communication, fundraising, research, storytelling, and leadership. Through her efforts, she aims to highlight the significance of multicultural education and empowerment.For more information visit Con Mi MADREDoes cybersecurity seem like a terrifying topic? Don’t worry—we’re here to make it a smash hit! This episode is brought to you by RoundTable Technology—the Nonprofit IT Partner. For the tenth year in a row, they’re back with their FREE annual webinar, and this time, it’s bigger and bolder with a 2025 twist: Cyber Karaoke!That’s right—RoundTable Technology is turning up the volume to teach you and your team exactly how to make your nonprofit more secure in the New Year, all while keeping things fun and engaging. With over 200 nonprofit clients, they know how to help organizations like yours hit all the right notes when it comes to cybersecurity.Make it your New Year’s resolution to give your entire staff FREE cybersecurity awareness training. Don’t miss the encore—head over to NonprofitIT.com/best-ever to save your seat now. Here’s to a secure and harmonious 2025!Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts