The Fundraising Elevator Podcast
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

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/

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/


