
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

Mar 6, 2024 • 42min
Episode #25 | The Art of Gratitude with Zerik Samples + Kelly Russell
In a special episode of the Fundraising Elevator recorded live at the 2024 Elevate Conference, we talk to Zerik Samples, CEO of Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity, and Kelly Russell of Artisan Auctions. Zerik and Kelly delve deep into how gratitude can play a transformative role in fundraising efforts and the transformative power of community.
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/
Zerik Samples
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zerik-samples-73a58a37/
| 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/
Samples of Knowledge, LLC: samplesofknowledge@outlook.com
The Book on Fundraising Auctions by Kelly Russell: https://www.artisanauctions.com/fundraising-book

Feb 28, 2024 • 43min
Episode #24 | Next Level Fundraising Events with Samantha Swaim
This week the Fundraising Elevator podcast, recorded at the 2024 Elevate Conference, features a presentation by our very own Samantha Swaim all about reimagining fundraising events, engaging donors and creating impactful gatherings. Sam shares insights on the changing landscape of events, the importance of centering missions and tips for successful fundraising appeals.
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.
Speaker
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
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 by Priya Parker: https://www.priyaparker.com/book-art-of-gathering
Start With Why TED Talk by Simon Sinek: https://www.ted.com/talks/simon_sinek_how_great_leaders_inspire_action?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare
Start With Why Book by Simon Sinek: https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/
Immersion by Paul Zak: https://www.amazon.com/Immersion-Science-Extraordinary-Source-Happiness/dp/1544531958
The Book on Fundraising Auctions by Kelly Russell: https://www.artisanauctions.com/fundraising-book
Red Shoes Living by Lonnie Mayne: https://lonniemayne.com/book/
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com/
OneCause: https://www.onecause.com/
Zoom: https://zoom.us/
Crowdcast: https://www.crowdcast.io/

Feb 21, 2024 • 44min
Episode #23 | Mobilizing Funds with Floyd Jones
This week on The Fundraising Elevator we talk to Floyd Jones, Director of Community + Partnerships at Givebutter and expert in peer-to-peer fundraising. We explore the heart of P2P fundraising which centers the power of community and relationships. Floyd walks us through practical ways to set up a successful campaign and what that impact can look like beyond the dollars. His enthusiasm for peer-to-peer in infectious and his insight can really help folks set up campaigns 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/
Floyd Jones
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefloydjones-/
| 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/
Stay connected with Floyd and BackBlack: https://poplme.co/ue5l6RDG
Peer-to-Peer Fundraising Toolkit: https://givebutter.com/freebies/peer-to-peer-fundraising-toolkit-guide?&utm_source=elevate_fundraising&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=podcast
BackBlack: https://backblackmovement.org/
Givebutter: https://givebutter.com/
Back Black Impact Report: https://backblackmovement.org/impact

Feb 14, 2024 • 55min
Episode #22 | Fundraising Event Success With Beth McGorry
This week on The Fundraising Elevator Beth McGorry, the Director of Donor Relations at St. Mark Youth Enrichment, shares the story of her work to steward donors which is a powerful reminder of the human element in fundraising. Her success is a blend of innovative event planning, a focus on personal connections and a deep-seated belief in the power of community.
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 McGorry
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-mcgorry-cfre-67655ab7/
| 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/
St. Mark Youth Enrichment: https://stmarkyouthenrichment.org/

Feb 7, 2024 • 53min
Episode #21 | Abundance with Renee Spears
This week on The Fundraising Elevator Rene Spears, a renowned Spiritual Life and Business Mentor and Spirit Guide Channeler, encourages nonprofits to reevaluate their approach to fundraising and mission alignment. We explore how, by adopting a mindset of abundance and focusing on the good stuff, organizations can have the potential to unlock new levels of success and fulfillment.
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/
Find Out More About Renee: https://www.abundology.com
The Abundology Podcast: https://abundology.podbean.com/

Jan 31, 2024 • 1h 14min
Episode #20 | The Guest Experience at Your Event with Michelle Holman
This week on The Fundraising Elevator Michelle Holman from Greater Giving shares the transformative power of event management software in improving the guest experience. She highlights how technology not only streamlines operations but also significantly influences the way organizations interact with their data, donors, and overall event strategy. This conversation sheds light on the nuances of creating memorable and impactful events, bridging the gap between technology and the human touch for successful fundraising.
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/
Michelle Holman
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-holman-814a5414/
| 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/
Greater Giving: www.greatergiving.com

Jan 24, 2024 • 1h 10min
Episode #19 | Increase Fundraising in Your Paddle Raise with Samantha Swaim
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.
Speaker
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
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

Jan 17, 2024 • 1h 1min
Episode #18 | Hybrid Event Technology with Brooke Battle
This week on The Fundraising Elevator the spotlight is on hybrid event technology. Our guest Brooke Battle, Founder and CEO of Swell Fundraising, shares some practical implementation of these technologies by drawing on real-life examples and provides expert insight to help guide you in using event technology to maximize your 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.
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/
Brooke Battle
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brookebattle/
| 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/
Swell Fundraising: https://swellfundraising.com
“What is a Smart Party?” blog from Swell Fundraising: https://blog.swellfundraising.com/what-is-a-smart-party
Mention The Fundraising Elevator podcast and we will waive the new account setup fee for Swell Fundraising (value $149)

Jan 10, 2024 • 1h 15min
Episode #17 | Storytelling Tours With Tammy Zonker
This week on The Fundraising Elevator we take a look at how Storytelling Tours can bring donors, staff, board members and stakeholders into the heartbeat of your mission. Our guest Tammy Zonker, an international speaker and trainer in the discipline of transformational philanthropy, shares how leading free, one-hour tours of your work can transform your donor relationships and showcase the impact of your work in a unique and lasting way.
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/
Tammy Zonker
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammyzonker/
| 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 Tour" video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqXR8zauhzo
Fundraising Transformed: http://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/
Tom Ahern “Writing a Powerful Case for Support”: https://youtu.be/JUi6wQoFXW4?si=60D3s2-84PxIwGC0
Join the FREE Fundraising Transformer Community: https://tammyzonker.mykajabi.com/mentor
Special early bird offer for The Intentional Fundraising Plan Masterclass by 1/15/2024: http://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/masterclass

Dec 20, 2023 • 54min
Episode #16 | Donor Texting with James Martin
This week on The Fundraising Elevator we explore the world of donor texting, a powerful tool in modern fundraising strategies. Our guest James Martin, Co-Founder and CEO of Rally Corp, brings a wealth of experience and insight into how organizations can effectively leverage text messaging to engage donors and elevate their fundraising efforts.
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/
James Martin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamesmartin/
| 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/
Visit https://www.rallycorp.com/start to get started with texting for free.
Get 50% off your first month of Rally Corp with mention of The Fundraising Elevator Podcast