The Fundraising Elevator Podcast

With this episode we launch a special two-part series with Rachel D’Souza, founder of Gladiator Consulting and member of the Community-Centric Fundraising Global Council. We dive in and explore the transformative power of community-centric fundraising—a groundbreaking movement centered on equity, collaboration, and sustainability in the nonprofit sector. Rachel talks about how to rethink power dynamics, what innovative funding practices can look like, addresses generational shifts in giving, and explores technology’s role in philanthropy. She also shares how embracing discomfort can drive systemic change, enabling nonprofits to evolve in a rapidly shifting social and economic landscape. Join us next week for part two of this series, where Rachel dives into actionable strategies for integrating community-centric practices into your fundraising events. 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/

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 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/ “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, 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. 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/ Kim Fountain LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-fountain-0a204328/ | 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/ San Diego LGBT Center: https://thecentersd.org/ Association of Fundraising Professionals: https://afpglobal.org/ CenterLink: https://www.lgbtqcenters.org/

In this thought-provoking episode, Rhea Wong, a leading expert in nonprofit fundraising, shares transformative insights on building sustainable donor relationships. Rhea challenges the sector's “acquisition addiction,” emphasizing the costliness of continually replacing donors instead of cultivating those already committed. She also unpacks how systemic issues—like overburdened roles and unclear priorities—set up nonprofit professionals to fail and calls for a new paradigm of leadership rooted in focus, trust, and meaningful connections. Rhea inspires nonprofit leaders to embrace their role as chief fundraisers while building strong, supportive teams around them. 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/ Rhea Wong LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rheawong/ | 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/ Rhea Wong Consulting: https://www.rheawong.com/ Get that Money, Honey!: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey Nonprofit Lowdown Podcast: https://www.rheawong.com/podcast/

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 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/ Jo Davis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodavispdx/ | 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/ OnPoint Community Credit Union: https://www.onpointcu.com/

In this episode, we explore the critical shift from deficit-framed language to asset-based language in the nonprofit sector with special guest Frank Velásquez Jr. Leading with deficit often reinforces harmful stereotypes and systemic disparities, negatively impacting both organizations and the communities they serve. By embracing asset-based language, nonprofits can highlight strengths and opportunities, fostering transformative change. Learn how adopting this approach engages donors from a place of support, strengthens connections to your mission, and drives sustainable impact. Discover actionable insights for moving your organization toward more empowering, community-centered storytelling. 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/ Frank Velásquez Jr. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/4-da-hood-llc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4dahoodllc/ | 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/ Ascending Leaders in Color: 4dahood.com/alc-fellowship 4 Da Hood: https://4dahood.com/ Access free introductory guide to using asset-based language: https://4-da-hood.ck.page/ca93d5f149 The Ethical Nonprofit Summit: https://habramarketing.com/summit/

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 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/ Chef Kiara Hardy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiara-hardy-265836270/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitchen_killa/ | 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/ 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, Kurt Beadell, Creative Director and Owner of Vibrant Table, shares expert tips on how to create a memorable and impactful fundraising event without breaking the bank. Discover budget-friendly event design strategies that deliver a ‘wow’ experience for your attendees. Kurt offers practical ideas for making simple yet powerful shifts to maximize your time and financial resources. Learn how to design emotionally engaging and immersive events that support your nonprofit’s mission while captivating your audience and inspiring action. 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/ Kurt Beadell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-beadell-62355578/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksbpdx/ | 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/ Vibrant Table: https://vibranttable.com/

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&

This week Kristin and Sam explore key trends shaping the current fundraising and event landscapes. As nonprofits face a rapidly changing environment, understanding where to focus your efforts is more important than ever. Sam explores how events can create movements, looking to current events like national political conventions and concerts as examples. Kristin explores how impactful stories are being told and the neuroscience behind it, offering ways to tell stories at your organization that are empowering instead of disenfranchising. This episode is packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies! 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/ The Art of Gathering: https://elevatenonprofit.com/all-books-ebooks/ The Storytelling Animal: https://elevatenonprofit.com/all-books-ebooks/ Nonprofit Storytelling Conference: https://nonprofitstorytellingconference.com/ The Ethical Nonprofit Summit: https://events.ringcentral.com/events/the-ethical-nonprofit-summit/registration Paul Zak, Neuroeconomics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHeqQAKHh3M APA Inclusive Language Guidelines: https://www.apa.org/about/apa/equity-diversity-inclusion/language-guide.pdf Current Events and Fundraising Insight Articles by Sam Swaim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/recent-activity/articles/