
The Fundraising Elevator Podcast
The Fundraising Elevator: where we’re all headed up. Samantha Swaim and Kristin Steele are using their decades of fundraising, event strategy and storytelling experience to help you change the world at your next event. Listen to conversations with industry leaders for insights and tools you can use to connect more people to your mission. New episodes drop every Wednesday.
Latest episodes

Oct 2, 2024 • 1h 4min
Episode #47 | Live from the Raise Conference
In this special episode, Kristin and Sam take The Fundraising Elevator on the road to the Raise Conference in Nashville, a gathering of top nonprofit leaders and fundraising professionals. Broadcasting in partnership with Raise Nation Radio, they bring you highlights, insights, and key takeaways from the event. Hear expert advice and fresh perspectives from some of the most influential voices in fundraising to give you strategies for success in an evolving landscape.
We chat with: Cherian Koshy of Kindsight Julia Campbell of J. Campbell Social Marketing Josh Hirsch of Soukup Strategic Solutions Derria Ford of the Martha O’Bryan Center and Kevin Spykerman of Auction Packages Thank you to Raise Nation Radio, OneCause, DonorDock, Utopia Experience, Creative Shizzle, and Confessions with Jess + Cindy.
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/
Raise Nation Radio: https://www.onecause.com/raise-nation-podcast/
OneCause: https://www.onecause.com/
DonorDock: https://www.donordock.com/
Creative Shizzle: https://www.creativeshizzle.com/
Confessions podcast: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/
Utopia Experience: https://www.utopiaexperience.com/
Kindsight: https://kindsight.io/
J Campbell Social Marketing: https://jcsocialmarketing.com/
Soukup Strategic Solutions: https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com/
Martha O’Bryan Center: https://marthaobryan.org/
Auction Packages: https://www.auctionpackages.com/

Sep 25, 2024 • 51min
Episode #46 | Political Campaign Fundraising with CM Hall
On this episode of The Fundraising Elevator, dive into CM Hall’s inspiring journey from activism to becoming the first out queer person elected to the Newport City Council. CM shares her story of advocacy, fundraising, and how nonprofit leaders can make a difference in politics. We also look at the nuances of fundraising for political campaigns and nonprofit events and how the House Party model can work for both sectors.
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/
CM Hall
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cm-hall-217b766/
| 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/
Her Own Wings Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552097647142
League of Oregon Cities Women's Caucus: https://www.orcities.org/about/who-we-are/loc-womens-caucus/her-own-wings-podcast
Emerge Oregon: https://or.emergeamerica.org/

Sep 18, 2024 • 58min
Season 2 Launch! Episode #45 | Exploring Planned Giving with Jen Love
We’re launching Season 2 with a bang! 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/

Sep 11, 2024 • 1h 2min
Episode #15 | ENCORE | Board Engagement With Susan Howlett
During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on how your board can best support your next event. This week on The Fundraising Elevator we talk to nonprofit fundraising thought leader, Susan Howlett, all about how board engagement can be the secret sauce in the fundraising success at your organization.
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.
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/
Susan Howlett
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-howlett-3127005/
| 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/
"Boards on Fire: Inspiring Leaders to Raise Money Joyfully": www.susanhowlett.com
Tarnside Curve of Involvement: https://susanhowlett.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Tarnside-Curve-of-Involvement.pdf
Free shipping on books purchased on www.susanhowlett.com with the coupon code SWAIM.

Sep 4, 2024 • 49min
Episode #13 | ENCORE | Board Leadership with Lisa Watson
During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on engaging your board. In this episode of The Fundraising Elevator we talk to seasoned leader and board member Lisa Watson about what effective board leadership can look like and how that can pave the way for a more impactful nonprofit. She shares what’s needed for board members to be successful and also what it looks like when it’s time for board members to go. She shares examples of what successful collaborations between board members and staff can look like and how that variety of perspectives and skills can really benefit an organization.
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.
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/
Lisa Watson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisalovespdx/
| 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/

Aug 28, 2024 • 1h 9min
Episode #34 | ENCORE | How To Tell Your Organizational Story with Kristin Steele
During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on preparing an impactful program for your next event. This week Kristin Steele delves into the art of sharing organizational stories effectively by starting with the "why." From the importance of conveying mission to dissecting the elements of effective storytelling, we unravel the intricacies of crafting compelling narratives.
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.
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/
Simon Sinek TED Talk: https://youtu.be/u4ZoJKF_VuA?si=W-m3RqbQPjouhWQ0

Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 5min
Episode #26 | ENCORE | The Power Of Data with Beth Sandefur
During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on using your data to help you go to the next level. This week on The Fundraising Elevator, Beth Sandefur joins us to share the importance of a data-driven approach in planning and executing fundraising events. She discusses the pivotal role of data in shaping successful fundraising events and how understanding your donor base and tailoring events to their preferences is essential for success.
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.
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/
Beth Sandefur
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethsandefur/
| 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/
Beth Sandefur Events: bethsandefur.com
Sign up for Beth’s Mailing List: https://bethsandefur.activehosted.com/f/1
@bigexcelenergy on Tiktok
Fathom Notetaker: https://fathom.video/ ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/

Aug 14, 2024 • 51min
Episode #5 | ENCORE | Registration Technology for Fundraising Events with Mary Elizabeth
During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on how good data can make your fundraising event easier. On this episode of The Fundraising Elevator, we talk to Swaim Strategies’ Director of Operations, Mary Elizabeth, about registration technology and its transformative impact on fundraising events. Mary gives us tips on simplifying registration, optimizing event management, and elevating attendee experiences, while creating an engaging event atmosphere using data customization. Mary also addresses data security and privacy concerns so we’re empowered with the information we need to handle attendee information responsibly. We close out the episode with a future look at registration technology, predicting deeper integration with virtual and hybrid events and exciting advancements driven by AI-driven personalization.
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.
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/
Mary Elizabeth
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-elizabeth8/
| 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/

Aug 7, 2024 • 49min
Episode #8 | ENCORE |Now What? with Clay Buck
During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on how to clean up and best utilize your data. In this episode of The Fundraising Elevator, T. Clay Buck, Founder of TCB Fundraising and The Fundraiser's Planner, shares essential insights into the post-campaign phase of fundraising. Clay emphasizes the significance of post-campaign analysis, where we learn from past experiences and make data-driven decisions. He discusses the shift from campaign-focused thinking to fostering lasting donor relationships through storytelling and personalized communication. Clay explores the donor's journey beyond the initial donation and strategies for long-term donor engagement. Finally, we discuss the importance of adaptability in the ever-changing fundraising landscape.
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.
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/
Clay Buck
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tclaybuck/
| 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 Fundraiser's Planner: http://www.myfundraisingplanner.com
TCB Fundrasing: https://tcbfundraising.com/services/
A Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri Nouwen: https://henrinouwen.org/read/a-spirituality-of-fundraising/
Use the code ELEVATOR at www.tcbfundraising.com to take an additional 25% off The Fundraiser's Planner

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 10min
Episode #19 | ENCORE | Increase Fundraising In Your Paddle Raise With Samantha Swaim
During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on turning your donor cultivation into increased fundraising at your next event. This week on The Fundraising Elevator our very own Samantha Swaim breaks down a successful event paddle raise. She dives deep into the art of storytelling and how emotion plays a pivotal role in driving donor engagement and contributions. She also provides practical strategies on optimizing timing your appeal and ways to recognize donors to foster long-term 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.
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/
Special Appeal Demo: https://youtu.be/nx7vQEeya2c?si=Mk65YCjqXsyQrL10
“Why Inspiring Stories Make Us React: The Neuroscience of Narrative” by Paul Zak: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4445577/
“Future of Storytelling” by Paul Zak: https://youtu.be/DHeqQAKHh3M?si=97zPuQy-8t7GFbb9
“Audience Members Hearts Beat Together at the Theatre” article about the research of University College London Division of Psychological and Language Sciences: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/pals/news/2017/nov/audience-members-hearts-beat-together-theatre#:~:text=New%20research%20led%20by%20the,Joe%20Devlin%2C%20Dr%20Daniel%20C.
Derek Sivers’ TED Talk “How to Start a Movement”: https://youtu.be/gxFt1BZiMTw?si=41-Bie61A0LZrTsF
The Fundraising Elevator Episode 3: Storytelling with Kristin Steele: https://youtu.be/KiGdUuzVjeo?si=PEs3BY_gSz9Ki8qi