Power your fundraising: John Gile on raising money and staying upbeat

"We get through things." Resilience and optimism are hallmarks of American success. In this powerful episode, public affairs luminary and fundraising titan John Gile reminds us of that — and instructs us in how to succeed in fundraising. John should know: in his work with the public affairs firm John Gile & Associates, he has tackled some of society's toughest challenges. Whether your work impacts a big city or a small community, you’ll benefit from John’s strategies, mindset, and sheer determination that have helped him raise millions for vital causes — all with an infectious optimism. This episode is a masterclass in turning adversity into impact, featuring… The power of the ask: The #1 fundraising secret that's often missed: you HAVE to ask. John shares personal anecdotes, from his childhood collecting for the poor to concrete strategies for telling your story and securing the funds you need. The fortress of fundraising: Learn John's golden rule: diversify your revenue streams! He breaks down the ideal split (government, foundations/corporations, individuals/events) that built Project Angel Food into a multi-million-dollar powerhouse and protects organizations from unexpected funding cuts. Defending defunding: Discover how John successfully "clawed back" federal funding, showcasing the power of strategic relationships and the rise of private philanthropy in making up deficits. The superpower of optimism: John and our host Lee Wochner both champion optimism as essential, pushing back against pessimism as being "pre-defeated." Hear why a positive outlook isn't just a mindset, but a strategic advantage in driving change. …and much more. Keep asking for more. Keep making an impact.  And most important… “Keep moving.”