
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

May 15, 2024 • 60min
Episode #35 | Big Fundraising News from Seth Godin + Anne Marie Cruz
This week, Seth Godin and Anne Marie Cruz discuss their innovative new auction platform, GOODBIDS as well as tap into their expertise on organizational development and the state of the nonprofit sector.
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/
Seth Godin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethgodin/
Anne Marie Cruz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-marie-cruz-9805b43/
| 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/
GOODBIDS: http://goodbids.org
Seth’s Blog: https://seths.blog/

May 8, 2024 • 1h 9min
Episode #34 | How to Tell Your Organizational Story with Kristin Steele
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.
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/
Simon Sinek TED Talk: https://youtu.be/u4ZoJKF_VuA?si=W-m3RqbQPjouhWQ0

May 1, 2024 • 1h 7min
Episode #33 | VR Storytelling with Rachel Bracker
This week on The Fundraising Elevator Rachel Bracker joins our hosts to discuss the transformative potential of VR storytelling for nonprofits. She explores the ways in which VR can be used to enhance donor engagement, overcome geographic barriers and evoke empathy and emotional resonance through immersive experiences. VR offers a unique opportunity for nonprofits to immerse donors in their work, fostering deeper emotional connections and understanding. Incorporating VR into fundraising events or donor tours can provide a memorable and impactful experience for supporters.
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/
Rachel Bracker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/superbracker/
| 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/
Hungry Mantis: www.hungrymantis.com
Oxfam VR Film “Evelyn’s Story”: https://youtu.be/jZUnUCWqwFw?si=FRFntGn0qCicz2i0
Forager Immersive Multi-sensory Experience: https://www.forager.earth/
Showtime VR: https://showtimevr.eu/
Worlds Beyond VR: https://worldsbeyondvr.com/
Meta Quest 3: https://www.meta.com/quest/quest-3/
Hugh Hou on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@hughhou
ZP Productions: https://www.zpproductions.com/
Book recommendation for more info about the psychology of VR: Experience on Demand by Jeremy Bailenson: https://www.amazon.com/Experience-Demand-Virtual-Reality-Works/dp/0393253694
Podcast recommendations to learn more about VR: Voices of VR Podcast – https://voicesofvr.com/
Alex Makes VR Podcast – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/alex-makes-vr/id1517046550
Great news site about all things XR storytelling: XRMust.com – http://xrmust.com/
How to get in touch with Rachel: Email hungrymantisvr@gmail.com Visit www.hungrymantis.com
Follow on instagram @hungry_mantis

Apr 24, 2024 • 1h 5min
Episode #32 | Fundraising Auctions with Kelly Russell
This week on The Fundraising Elevator, Kelly Russell of Artisan Auctions dives into the evolving landscape of fundraising auctions and activities. She shares the constants that remain unchanged post-pandemic and explores the need to balance gamification with inclusivity and mission alignment.
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.
This episode is sponsored by Artisan Auctions: https://www.artisanauctions.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/
Kelly Russell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-russell-bb026750/
| 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/
Artisan Auctions: https://www.artisanauctions.com/
The Book on Fundraising Auctions: https://www.artisanauctions.com/fundraising-book

Apr 17, 2024 • 1h 5min
Episode #31 | Fundraising Event Trends with Dale Johannes
This week Dale Johannes returns to discuss the evolving landscape of fundraising events in 2024, emphasizing the importance of innovation, storytelling, and mission alignment in maximizing donor engagement and impact. He emphasizes the "less is more" approach, focusing on tighter programs and impactful storytelling to engage donors. Generational shifts in giving preferences are also influencing fundraising strategies, with millennials focusing more on impact-driven giving. Dale advocates for shorter, more focused auctions, suggesting no more than eight packages to maintain audience engagement and maximize results.
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.
This episode is sponsored by 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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
DC Auctions: https://dc-auctions.com/about/
Email Dale: dalejohannes@gmail.com
See Dale in Action: https://vimeo.com/922301033/d340c03a00?share=copy

Apr 10, 2024 • 54min
Episode #30 | Leadership Lessons with Steve Johns
This week on The Fundraising Elevator, we welcome Steve Johns, CEO of One Cause and author of "Fearless." Steve offers valuable strategies for nonprofit leaders to navigate the sector's evolving landscape, emphasizing the power of personalized relationships with donors, adaptability, resilience and the necessity to embrace fearlessness as a catalyst for innovation and growth.
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/
Steve Johns
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevejohns3/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/27191314
| 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/
ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/
Raise Nation: https://www.raise-nation.com/
“Fearless: Leadership Lessons at the Crossroads” by Steve Johns: https://a.co/d/aIkWgh5
OneCause: https://www.onecause.com/

Apr 3, 2024 • 54min
Episode #29 | Coaching Great Teams with Ryan Goodwin
This week on The Fundraising Elevator we sit down with Ryan Goodwin, a seasoned coach who has transitioned his vast experience in collegiate athletics to become a fundraising powerhouse at Swaim Strategies. Discover Ryan's unique approach to improving team dynamics and individual performance through action typing and strength-based coaching.
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/
Ryan Goodwin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-goodwin-114b797b/
| 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/
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator: https://www.themyersbriggs.com/en-US/Products-and-Services/Myers-Briggs
Concord Leadership Group: https://concordleadershipgroup.com/

Mar 27, 2024 • 1h 15min
Episode #28 | Small Shop Strategies with Rachel Bearbower
This week on The Fundraising Elevator we explore the use of automation in streamlining fundraising efforts. Rachel Bearbower, founder of Small Shop Strategies and the newly launched Nonprofit Automation Agency, shares her valuable expertise on simplifying processes, enhancing communication with donors, and the tools that can help organizations thrive in their fundraising endeavors.
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/
Rachel Bearbower
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelbearbower/
| 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/
Nonprofit Automation Agency: https://www.nonprofitautomationagency.com/
ConvertKit: https://partners.convertkit.com/vs5ja3rmf70f
Zapier: www.zapier.com
The Fundraising Template Shop: https://www.thefundraisingtemplateshop.com/
How to Write an Impact Statement: https://www.smallshopstrategies.com/podcast/creating-a-memorable-impact-statement
How to Talk Politics When You 'Can't Be Political': https://www.smallshopstrategies.com/podcast/getpolitical

Mar 20, 2024 • 53min
Episode #27 | Appreciation Events with Sally Dadmun Bixby
This week on The Fundraising Elevator, Sally Dadman Bixby discusses the critical role gratitude gatherings play in connecting communities and enhancing donor engagement. We explore the potential of appreciation events and explore how gratitude can serve as a cornerstone in cultivating deep, meaningful connections within our communities.
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/
Sally Badmun Bixby
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sally-dadmun-bixby-1a93a97/
| 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/
For a handout on how to host an appreciation gathering, email Sally at Sally@philstudiopdx.com
The People’s Nonprofit Accelerator: https://thepeoplesnonprofit.org/

Mar 13, 2024 • 1h 5min
Episode #26 | The Power of Data with Beth Sandefur
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/