Episode #63 | Innovation with Cherian Koshy

In this episode, we explore innovation, efficiency, and the balance of human connection in the nonprofit sector with guest Cherian Koshy. As a transformative leader with over 25 years of experience, Cherian offers thought-provoking insights into the future of philanthropy, the role of technology, and how nonprofits can evolve to stay mission-focused in a rapidly changing world. He warns against an overemphasis on efficiency that risks eroding the human connections central to nonprofit missions. We look at how to leverage tools like AI to enhance—not replace—empathy and personal touch in donor and community relationships. Cherian shares practical advice for adopting technology with intention and purpose. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and forward-thinking perspectives for nonprofits navigating the intersection of technology and mission-driven 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.  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 Cherian Koshy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheriankoshy/ | 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/ Cherian Koshy: https://www.cheriankoshy.com/ “Donor Perceptions of AI” study by Cherian Koshy and Nathan Chappell: https://www.cheriankoshy.com/aistudy/ Kindsight: https://kindsight.io/ Kindsight’s Fundraising Survival Guide: https://kindsight.io/resources/ebooks/fundraising-survival-guide/?utm_source=paid_advertising&utm_medium=sponsored_webinar&utm_campaign=Fundraising_Transformed&utm_content=Fundraising-Survival-Guide Antifragile book: https://www.powells.com/book/antifragile-things-that-gain-from-disorder-9780812979688 New York Times “Effective Altruism is Flawed”: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/06/17/opinion/effective-altruism-philanthropy-charity.html Atomic Habits book: https://www.powells.com/book/atomic-habits-9781847941831 Tiny Habits book: https://www.powells.com/book/tiny-habits-the-small-changes-that-change-everything-9780358003328 Dan Ariely books: https://danariely.com/books