The Fundraising Elevator Podcast

In this episode we dive into the shifting landscape of philanthropy with The Generosity Crisis author, Nathan Chappell. As a thought leader and one of the world’s foremost experts on the intersection of artificial intelligence and fundraising, Nathan explores the challenges nonprofits face in an era of declining donor participation and increasing transactional fundraising. Nathan shares compelling insights on why donor retention rates are plummeting, how AI is shaping the future of giving, and why fostering deep, meaningful relationships—not just securing transactions—will be the key to long-term sustainability in the nonprofit sector. He also discusses the importance of reexamining organizational incentives, shifting from short-term revenue goals to long-term relational success, and creating a culture of generosity that extends beyond traditional fundraising models. 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/ Nathan Chappell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/ | RESOURCES | Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/ 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/ The Generosity Crisis: https://www.chappell-crimmins.com/ Donor Search: https://www.donorsearch.net/ fundraise.ai: https://fundraising.ai/ Furniture Bank of Toronto: https://www.furniturebank.org/ Nonprofit AI (forthcoming): https://www.amazon.com/Nonprofit-Comprehensive-Implementing-Artificial-Intelligence/dp/139431664

In this episode with Sammy Bliss we dive into the magic of live events, storytelling, and experiential marketing. We explore the transformative power of gathering people in a space to experience something unforgettable—whether it’s a theatrical performance, a high-energy DJ set, or a nonprofit fundraising event. For nonprofits, experiential marketing offers a powerful way to cultivate donor relationships. From innovative photo ops to leveraging influencers and social media, we unpack creative strategies to turn attendees into engaged advocates. 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Sammy Bliss LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sammybliss/ | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ ASV: https://www.asv1.com/ Podcast episode on VR storytelling with Rachel Bracker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNzFZKBLqgw

In this episode, we explore innovation, efficiency, and the balance of human connection in the nonprofit sector with guest Cherian Koshy. As a transformative leader with over 25 years of experience, Cherian offers thought-provoking insights into the future of philanthropy, the role of technology, and how nonprofits can evolve to stay mission-focused in a rapidly changing world. He warns against an overemphasis on efficiency that risks eroding the human connections central to nonprofit missions. We look at how to leverage tools like AI to enhance—not replace—empathy and personal touch in donor and community relationships. Cherian shares practical advice for adopting technology with intention and purpose. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and forward-thinking perspectives for nonprofits navigating the intersection of technology and mission-driven work. 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies Cherian Koshy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheriankoshy/ | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Cherian Koshy: https://www.cheriankoshy.com/ “Donor Perceptions of AI” study by Cherian Koshy and Nathan Chappell: https://www.cheriankoshy.com/aistudy/ Kindsight: https://kindsight.io/ Kindsight’s Fundraising Survival Guide: https://kindsight.io/resources/ebooks/fundraising-survival-guide/?utm_source=paid_advertising&utm_medium=sponsored_webinar&utm_campaign=Fundraising_Transformed&utm_content=Fundraising-Survival-Guide Antifragile book: https://www.powells.com/book/antifragile-things-that-gain-from-disorder-9780812979688 New York Times “Effective Altruism is Flawed”: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/17/opinion/effective-altruism-philanthropy-charity.html Atomic Habits book: https://www.powells.com/book/atomic-habits-9781847941831 Tiny Habits book: https://www.powells.com/book/tiny-habits-the-small-changes-that-change-everything-9780358003328 Dan Ariely books: https://danariely.com/books

In this special episode, Sam and Kristin dive into where fundraising events are and offer a top-10 for the ever-evolving landscape in 2025. From the rise of hybrid and virtual events to the importance of mission-centered experiences, this episode covers it all. Discover how emerging technologies, sustainability, and storytelling are reshaping the sector, and why staying consistent with donor engagement is more critical than ever. Sam shares lessons from past crises, including the pandemic, while Kristin highlights the growing demand for more flexible, inclusive donor experiences. This packed discussion offers valuable insights, research, and actionable strategies to help you navigate the year ahead with confidence and resilience. 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: 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Blackbaud Global Trends Giving Report: https://www.blackbaud.com/newsroom/article/blackbaud-institute-shares-spotlight-on-2023-trends-in-giving Classy’s 2023 State of Modern Philanthropy Report: https://www.classy.org/state-of-modern-philanthropy/ Sprout Social’s 2024 Social Media Content Strategy Report: https://sproutsocial.com/insights/data/2024-social-content-strategy-report/ HubSpot State of Marketing Report: https://www.hubspot.com/state-of-marketing Priya Parker: https://www.priyaparker.com/ TASTE for Equity: https://www.tasteforequity.org/ Bloomerang’s Nonprofit Technology Report: https://bloomerang.co/blog/nonprofit-digital-reports-showcasing-year-end-fundraising-efforts/ Millennial Impact Report: https://www.themillennialimpact.com/ OneCause Fundraising Outlook Report: https://www.onecause.com/ebook/2025-fundraising-outlook-report/ Eventbrite’s 2024 Event Statistics and Trends: https://www.eventbrite.com/blog/event-statistics-ds00/ Steven Screen and Jeff Brooks COVID Fundraising Report: https://betterfundraising.com/coronavirus-resource/ Giving USA’s 2024 Report: https://givingusa.org/ Podcast Episode with Jo Davis: https://elevatenonprofit.com/podcasts/episode-53-event-sponsorship/

In this episode, we’re joined by Mary Elizabeth, Ryan Goodwin, and Jenna Watanabe from The Fundraising Event Co. to explore how intentional planning and communication can elevate your fundraising events into unforgettable experiences of belonging and connection. We explore strategic event planning timelines to optimize execution, guest-centric approaches that enhance engagement, strength-based storytelling to inspire and connect with donors, streamlined programs for impactful messaging, and the power of hybrid events in expanding accessibility and participation. Discover practical tips like shortening program lengths, designing inclusive after-party experiences, and leveraging events to build community, increase attendance, and achieve your nonprofit’s fundraising goals. 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ The Fundraising Event Co. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fundraising-event-co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fundraisingeventco/ | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ The Fundraising Event Co: https://www.fundraisingeventco.com/ Podcast Episode with Mary Elizabeth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWIzvBW10zU&list=PLFj41I67iVxceKtwSTEza1uuoVfZXISyf&index=67 Podcast Episode with Ryan Goodwin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2vgpKum43k&list=PLFj41I67iVxceKtwSTEza1uuoVfZXISyf&index=43 Podcast Episode with Jenna Watanabe: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUcQR_dxGWI

In this episode Matt Gibson from Greater Giving shares his insights into optimizing the fundraising success of your event’s special appeal through technology. We look at the role of a special appeal/fund a need at your event, some of its regional differences, technology’s role in its success, and how you can enhance donor engagement with recognition and real-time feedback. We also explore how you can create meaningful calls to action for your donors and balance your event strategy with technology to create an engaging and meaningful experience that your donors want to be a part of, creating a special appeal that hits both hearts and fundraising goals. With the right technology and strategies, nonprofits can create immersive experiences that inspire generosity and deepen relationships.  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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Matt Gibson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greater-giving Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatergiving/ | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Reading Your Data Reports: https://help.greatergiving.com/s/article/Deep-Dive-into-Data-Reports-Webinar. New York Times Article on Galas: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/03/arts/design/arts-organization-galas-donors.html?searchResultPosition=1 Greater Giving Solutions + Resource Library: https://www.greatergiving.com/en

In this episode Christine Campbell, the Marketing Manager at The AV Department, dives into strategies for effectively capturing and utilizing content from live events. Hear insights on simple tools and techniques to ensure you maximize the value of your event content. Learn the fundamentals of capturing high-quality content during live events and why it's crucial for your marketing efforts. Find out how to repurpose event content across various platforms to extend its reach and lifespan. Hear Christine’s advice on overcoming common challenges in event content capture and distribution. This episode offers actionable tips to enhance your content strategy and boost audience engagement. 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Christine Campbell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-av-department Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avenueportland Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theavdepartment | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ AVENUE: https://avenueportland.com/ The AV Department Video Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theavdepart

Happy New Year! While we take a short winter break we are re-running one of our favorite episodes from Season 2 with Devin Boss. In this episode we dive deep into the world of video storytelling for nonprofits with acclaimed documentary and short film creator Devin Boss. Discover how storytelling can transform your nonprofit's mission, inspire action, and turn passive viewers into active supporters. Devin shares his production process, offering practical tools and insights for using video to boost connections to your cause. Learn how to engage your audience, highlight your impact, and motivate change through the art of visual storytelling. Tune in for inspiration and actionable tips. 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Devin Boss LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-boss-572669154/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devindeeboss/ | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Native Land: https://native-land.ca/ Rose City Justice: https://rcjpdx.org/ Paul Zak: https://pauljzak.com/ North East Production YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Northeastproduction North East Production: https://www.northeastprod.com/ Black Friday: https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=898402~5f969332-ec94-41af-822d-5c7ec8f2ca2b&epguid=ede4c806-6667-4a5f-86d4-f609b082addf&

Wishing you a wonderful winter break. As we take some time to rest we offer up one of our favorite episodes from Season 2, an encore of Episode #45 with Jen Love to inspire your planning for the year ahead. Join Jen Love, a renowned fundraising strategist and storyteller, as she delves into the power of planned giving. Jen explains how thoughtful storytelling can transform donor relationships and inspire legacy gifts. Whether you’re part of a large nonprofit or a small organization just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiration to help you succeed in planned giving. 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Jen Love Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agentjenlove/ | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ Jen Love Email: jen@agentsofgood.org Agents of Good: https://agentsofgood.org/ Jen Love on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agentjenlove/

We continue our conversation with Rachel D’Souza of Gladiator Consulting, who is a thought leader in community-centric fundraising. In this episode we’re taking a deeper dive into reshaping fundraising events with equity and inclusion at the forefront. Rachel challenges nonprofits to rethink traditions and adopt bold, equity-driven practices. Whether it’s budget planning or building authentic connections, this episode is packed with actionable advice for organizations aiming to make their events more inclusive, impactful, and joyful. Rachel shares expert insights and practical strategies to address critical questions like: What does it mean to decolonize fundraising events? How can nonprofits balance belonging and revenue goals? She challenges traditional fundraising event models, focusing on reimagining galas, overcoming the exclusivity of high-ticket events, and prioritizing equity in every decision. Tune in and discover how to host fundraising events that are financially successful and transformative spaces for community connection. 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Kristin Steele LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/ Rachel D’Souza LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gladiatorrds/ | 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/ The Ethical Rainmaker: https://theethicalrainmaker.com Gladiator Consulting: https://www.gladiatorrds.com/ What the Fundraising: https://malloryerickson.com/book/ Philanthropology: https://www.epip.org/philanthropology2024 Community-Centric Fundraising: https://communitycentricfundraising.org/ The Generosity Commission: https://www.thegenerositycommission.org/ Bank of America Study of Philanthropy: https://scholarworks.indianapolis.iu.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/2fd1581e-c1a0-43de-a174-a3080d019fc2/content adrienne maree brown: https://adriennemareebrown.net/