The Fundraising Elevator Podcast

In this episode we talk to Jason Allen Champion, Vice President of National Partnerships for Winspire, to discuss how consignment auctions can be a strategic tool for nonprofit fundraising. Consignment auctions offer nonprofits a low-risk way to enhance fundraising efforts while creating memorable donor experiences that reinforce organizational missions. Jason shares his expertise on maximizing revenue through consignment auction packages and provides insights on creating mission-aligned experiences that resonate with donors. We explore online auction strategies, creating packages, creative fundraising ideas, and the critical work of donor stewardship that can be a part of the experience of the packages they win at your auction.  Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Jason Allen Champion LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-allen-champion-802a7b13/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamwinspire/   Resources Book Consulting Time: Strategy Consulting with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Story Consulting with Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com   Winspire: https://www.winspireme.com/

In this episode, we chat with Chef Kiara Hardy of Kitchen Killa Culinary Solutions about the powerful role food plays in creating unforgettable event experiences. Learn how to collaborate with your event caterer to design an immersive atmosphere that aligns with your vision and budget. Chef Kiara shares her expert insights on the seasonality of food, different types of service, venue kitchen logistics, and how to tailor your menu to match your crowd’s dynamics. Don’t miss this chance to discover how thoughtful food choices can elevate your next fundraising event and create lasting impressions.   Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. This podcast is a production of elevatenonprofit.com.   This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kiara Hardy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiara-hardy-265836270/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitchen_killa/   Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book   Kitchen Killa Culinary Solutions: https://kitchenkilla.com/   Kitchen Killa Fry Seasoning: https://www.kitchenkillashop.com/product-page/fry-seasoning Kitchen Killa at Multnomah Whiskey Library: https://mwlpdx.com/event/kitchen-killa-brunch-series/

In this episode our very own storytelling expert Kristin Steele explores the art and impact of storytelling in nonprofit fundraising. Discover how strategic storytelling can connect with donors on an emotional level, making your mission unforgettable and inspiring action at your next fundraising event. Kristin shares essential strategies for crafting relatable, emotionally driven narratives that can transform complex issues into powerful stories, helping donors connect deeply with your cause. Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. This podcast is a production of elevatenonprofit.com.   This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/ Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Mariah Monique LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst Instagram: @thesponsrshipcatalyst   Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book   “Storytelling Animal” by Jonathan Gottschall: https://www.jonathangottschall.com/storytelling-animal   “Stories that Stick” by Kindra Hall: https://www.storiesthatstick.com/   “Wired for Story” by Lisa Cron: http://wiredforstory.com/wired-for-story   Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html   About the Event Arc: https://swaim-strategies.slab.com/posts/event-arc-for-in-person-galas-jrqaxeea   Emcee Best Practices: https://swaim-strategies.slab.com/public/posts/c6b2kgm6   Storytelling Best Practices: https://swaim-strategies.slab.com/public/posts/aomiuvxd Camp Fire Columbia Org Video: https://youtu.be/kGPStrdYk4M

In this episode, we welcome Kimberly A.C. Wilson, Executive Director of Hedgebrook, to explore how hybrid events and radical hospitality are transforming fundraising. Hedgebrook, a writing residency for women-identified authors, has evolved its annual event, EQUIVOX, into a powerful hybrid experience that unites a global community of writers, readers, and supporters. Kimberly shares insights into the impact of virtual accessibility, the power of storytelling in fundraising, and the deep connections fostered between writers and readers. We discuss how Hedgebrook leveraged hybrid events to raise over half a million dollars, expanded donor engagement beyond geographical limits, and created a model for other organizations to follow. Plus, get a sneak peek at this year's EQUIVOX, featuring speakers Claudia Castro Luna, Jacqueline Woodson and Dr. Seema Yasmin, and learn how you can tune in for free. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, an event planner, or just passionate about the arts, this episode is packed with insights on crafting immersive, inclusive fundraising experiences. Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   DC Auctions: https://dc-auctions.com/   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kimberly A.C. Wilson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hedgebrook Google: https://www.hedgebrook.org/   Resources  sizes and industries while debunking the myth that only large corporations offer worthwhile sponsorships. Mariah stresses the importance of connecting with "sponsorship gatekeepers" and approaching sponsors as equal partners, confident in the value nonprofits provide through their cultivated audiences. By understanding sponsors' goals and moving beyond transactional interactions, nonprofits can build enduring partnerships that benefit all parties involved. Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Mariah Monique LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst Instagram: @thesponsrshipcatalyst   Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book   Hedgebrook: https://www.hedgebrook.org/   EQUIVOX event livestream: https://www.avcast.me/equivox Virtual tickets to the Elevate Conference: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/

In this episode, Kim Fountain from the San Diego LGBTQ Community Center discusses the profound importance of creating intentional spaces—both literal and figurative—where individuals can connect, belong, and thrive. Kim delves into the concept of "safe spaces," redefining them as co-created environments of respect, belonging, and creativity, where individuals are inspired to take risks—both personal and collective—that generate joy and progress. Kim shares moving stories from her work, including the magic of collaborative events like the San Diego Center’s gala, where joy united 800 attendees in celebration. Through these experiences, we see how moments of connection spark movements and turn guests into evangelists for a cause. Tune in to learn how creating spaces for belonging and celebration not only uplifts communities but also fuels the passion and resources necessary for meaningful change. This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kim Fountain LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-fountain-0a204328/ Google: https://thecentersd.org/   Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book   San Diego LGBT Center: https://thecentersd.org/   Association of Fundraising Professionals: https://afpglobal.org/ CenterLink: https://www.lgbtqcenters.org/

In this episode Mariah Monique of The Sponsorship Catalyst shares her expertise on nonprofit sponsorship strategies. Drawing from her experience on both sides of sponsorship relationships, Mariah brings great insight and strategy to event sponsorship. Despite economic uncertainties, sponsorship budgets are growing as companies recognize the value of experiential marketing. She advises nonprofits to diversify their sponsorship portfolio across businesses of different sizes and industries while debunking the myth that only large corporations offer worthwhile sponsorships. Mariah stresses the importance of connecting with "sponsorship gatekeepers" and approaching sponsors as equal partners, confident in the value nonprofits provide through their cultivated audiences. By understanding sponsors' goals and moving beyond transactional interactions, nonprofits can build enduring partnerships that benefit all parties involved. Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Mariah Monique LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst Instagram: @thesponsrshipcatalyst   Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling   Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Event Sponsorship Article: https://constellation.take2services.com/blog/3-things-your-nonprofit-must-do-when-securing-event-sponsors   Sponsorship Deck Template: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/sponsorship-deck-template/   Nonprofit Event Sponsorship Accelerator: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/nesacourse/?coupon=NESA2025   If you join the course they can use code NESA2025 for $200 off of the Nonprofit Event Sponsorship Accelerator course.   Event Sponsorship Webinar: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/event-sponsors/   Sponsor Brand Benefit List: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/event-sponsors/   Email: mariah@thesponsorshipcatalyst.com

In this episode Jo Davis from OnPoint Community Credit Union shares invaluable insights on successful nonprofit sponsorship strategies. Jo discusses how OnPoint and similar corporate sponsors approach sponsorships as more than financial transactions—they’re dedicated partnerships. She underscores the importance of authentic relationships and tracking sponsorship impact to maximize community support. Jo also provides practical advice on navigating corporate sponsorship applications, including tips on researching sponsor priorities and aligning values to create stand-out proposals. This episode is a must-listen for nonprofit leaders seeking effective sponsorship techniques, ways to build enduring partnerships, and strategies to boost their nonprofit’s impact. *Correction: The grant provided to the housing nonprofit by OnPoint in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines was for $100,000. The press release can be found here: https://www.onpointcu.com/press-releases/four-local-nonprofits-awarded-600000-by-onpoint-community-credit-union-federal-home-loan-bank-of-des-moines/ Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. This podcast is a production of elevatenonprofit.com.   This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Jo Davis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodavispdx/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jojobeanpdx/ Resources Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam Book Consulting Time with  Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/   Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/   Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com   Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book OnPoint Community Credit Union: https://www.onpointcu.com/

Welcome to the final episode of Season 2 where co-hosts Samantha and Kristin sit down to talk about the evolving landscape of fundraising events. They reflect on the trends shaping nonprofit events today—from the resurgence of in-person gatherings post-pandemic to the essential role of celebration, community-building, and authenticity. You'll hear about the growing importance of intentionality in event programming, from centering joy and resilience to designing donor experiences that build real relationships. They also offer a roadmap for revenue strategy by looking at sponsorship, table sales, and partnership development. This episode is a celebration of what’s possible when we gather and a love letter to the power of mission-driven storytelling, leaving us with a call to be the architects of events that don’t just raise money—but raise the collective spirit. Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   DC Auctions: https://dc-auctions.com/   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   | RESOURCES | Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/ Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Be a Guest on the Podcast: https://swaimstrategies.com/propose-a-podcast-episode/ Raise Conference use code AMPLIFIER25: https://raise.onecause.com/ Nonprofit Storytelling Conference: https://nonprofitstorytellingconference.com/

In this episode Meena Das—CEO, speaker, and consultant at Namaste Data—explores AI through a critical lens grounded in ethics, equity, and humanity. Known for her deep expertise in equitable research design and data capacity building for nonprofits, Meena brings a powerful perspective on how the nonprofit sector can and should engage with AI. Rather than rushing into tools and tasks, Meena invites us to pause and dream. What would it look like if nonprofits started with their mission, their people, and their vision for community impact—and only then looked to AI as a tool to support that vision? What if every staff member had a seat at the table, contributing ideas not just about what tech can do, but what it should do? The conversation challenges the sector’s scarcity mindset, and the unchecked race to implement AI without deeper reflection. Meena takes us deep into the heart of her work, the AI Equity Project. This bold, multi-year research is an effort to uncover how nonprofits are engaging with AI and, more importantly, how they could be—ethically, equitably, and collaboratively. Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   DC Auctions: https://dc-auctions.com/   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Meena Das LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meenadas/   | RESOURCES | Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/ Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with Namaste Data: https://www.namastedata.org/freebies Join AI Advancement Lab for the August cohort: https://data-is-for-everyone.teachable.com/p/ai-advancement-lab AI Equity Project: https://aiequityproject.my.canva.site/2025

In this episode we’re joined by AI educator, strategist, and nonprofit veteran Josh Hirsch. With nearly two decades of experience in the sector and a deep background in digital communications, fundraising, and training, Josh brings both wisdom and cutting-edge insights to a conversation that’s all about demystifying AI for nonprofits. We explore how generative and predictive AI are transforming everything from fundraising strategy to donor communication, programming, and internal operations. But more than that, Josh helps us understand how to talk to the tools—and why that’s the secret sauce for unlocking their full potential. From building donor personas and campaign strategies to brainstorming new solutions in a time of federal funding loss and organizational uncertainty, this episode offers a hopeful and practical roadmap to what’s possible. Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show.    This Episode Brought to You by:  Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events.    The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year.    Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com   DC Auctions: https://dc-auctions.com/   Speakers Samantha Swaim LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/   Josh Hirsch LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/thedudecreates   | RESOURCES | Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/ Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Fundraise Up Institute: institute.fundraiseup.com The Fundraising Elevator Episode with Nathan Chappel: https://youtu.be/IbzBcMvMTpY The Fundraising Elevator Episode with Anne Murphy: https://youtu.be/qOegycFoLsw The Fundraising Elevator Episode with Mallory Erickson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8xImo3K5P1I Napkin: https://www.napkin.ai/ Hemingway App: https://hemingwayapp.com Fundraising.AI: https://fundraising.ai/ Midjourney: https://www.midjourney.com Chat GPT: https://chatgpt.com