Fundraising Leaders with Drew

“Don’t treat me like an ATM.” That’s what one major donor told Chris Gabriel—and it reveals one of the biggest problems in fundraising today. In this episode, Chris explains why transactional thinking damages donor relationships and leads to missed opportunities for deeper impact. He reframes the role of fundraisers—not as sellers, but as guides helping donors fulfill their highest purpose. If you want to build stronger, more meaningful donor relationships, this conversation offers a blueprint you can start using immediately.

What makes someone leave a stable career in finance to step into the emotional world of nonprofit work? In this episode, Adam Faitek shares how he unexpectedly found his calling in fundraising—and why it became so much more than just raising money. From helping families facing childhood cancer to building trust with donors, Adam reveals the human side of philanthropy. This conversation dives deep into purpose, community, and the real impact behind every dollar given. If you’ve ever wondered what drives meaningful work, this episode will stay with you.

Some episodes teach technique. This one teaches posture. In this conversation, Matt Sheffield shares why his fundraising philosophy starts with humility, small ego, and deep respect for the donor. He explains how being part of Mosaic’s mission for decades has taught him to see fundraising not as pressure, but as partnership. Drew and Matt explore how to earn trust, how to steward major gifts well, and how to help donors create the kind of legacy they truly want to leave behind. Along the way, Matt shares moving stories about mentors, families, and the people who modeled generosity for him. It is the kind of episode that will challenge you to think about fundraising as something far more relational and lasting than a campaign goal.

Aldervan Daly didn’t get into fundraising because of a big emotional calling — he got in through a database. Then theater taught him the rest. In this episode, Alder van shares how data and storytelling work together, why your donor profile isn’t the same as your donor relationship, and how to stay human in a job that can easily turn transactional. You’ll hear his take on planned giving, board dynamics (“my donor” isn’t a thing), and how to tell stories without putting people on display. Honest, practical, and surprisingly funny.

What if fundraising wasn’t actually about money? In this episode of Fundraising Leaders with Drew, host Drew Clancy sits down with Jeff Kramer—Chief Development Officer at Nova Ukraine and 43-year veteran of the fundraising world—to reframe everything you thought you knew about development. Jeff shares how a moment at a Jewish summer camp set him on a path of service, how mentors “raised him in the profession,” and why he believes the ask should be the easiest part of fundraising.From Mercy Ships to Nova Ukraine, Jeff’s philosophy is simple: fundraising is about identifying, cultivating, and stewarding relationships that change lives. Money is just the tool. He unpacks why he’ll fly anywhere in the world to meet a donor, how field visits in Ukraine and Africa transformed his approach, and why authenticity, gratitude, and sustainability matter more now than ever

In this episode of Fundraising Leaders with Drew, host Drew Clancy talks with Matt Altstiel, Vice President for Development at the Alliance for the Great Lakes. Matt shares how his journey from adult education classrooms to Chicago Public Schools to urban planning led him to environmental advocacy—and why all of it comes down to one core skill: talking to people. He breaks down how the Alliance uses vivid storytelling (“a credit card’s worth of plastic in our bodies every week”) to make complex issues like microplastics and policy feel personal, urgent, and solvable. Matt also explains how his team builds 15+ touchpoints per year for major donors, why Charity Navigator scores and transparency matter, and how they’re designing a new planned giving program to ensure the Alliance is strong 55 years from now. If you care about systems change, water, and the craft of development work, this conversation is packed with practical insights.

A surprise $50K pledge changed everything for a young counselor—and set the course for a career in philanthropy. In this conversation, Dr. Mario Hicks shares how that moment at Cradle Beach Camp shaped his approach to major gifts: from curiosity to relationship-building to aligning donor passions with institutional priorities. He breaks down his experience at Daemen University—moving alumni from nostalgia to the “new Daemen”—and why they needed more than scholarships to inspire. Think compelling projects (like a gross anatomy lab), cross-sector relevance, and an “invite-to-participate” narrative. You’ll also hear how annual giving feeds leadership and major gifts, and why matches and challenges activate leadership donors as ambassadors. Practical, grounded, and deeply mission-focused.

What does it mean to be a “chief storyteller” in higher education? In this episode, host Drew Clancy sits down with Dr. Hilary Link, President of Drew University, to explore the art and strategy of fundraising in today’s shifting landscape. Dr. Link shares how she weaves Drew’s story into every conversation—whether with alumni, students, parents, or community members—and why storytelling makes giving both more personal and more powerful. Together, they examine the narrowing donor pipeline, the rise of targeted philanthropy, and the shift from broad alumni participation to high-impact major gifts. This conversation is a masterclass in balancing tradition with innovation and redefining what it means to fundraise with purpose.

How do you keep fundraising fresh year after year? Heidi Daniels believes the key lies in creativity and mission alignment. In her conversation with Drew Clancy, Heidi reflects on her experiences leading annual funds and shares strategies for re-energizing campaigns with innovative approaches. From education briefings before galas to building long-term donor relationships, Heidi offers practical tips and heartfelt stories about what really works in development.

What does it take to lead lasting change within systems designed to resist it? In this powerful conversation, Lisette Nieves—President of the Fund for the City of New York—shares her journey from growing up in the Bronx to shaping citywide and national policy. With a track record spanning government, education, and social impact, Lisette opens up about what real equity looks like, how to navigate power with integrity, and why urgency without burnout matters. Whether you're a public leader, nonprofit strategist, or just someone trying to do meaningful work, this episode offers hard-earned insights—and hope.

Montclair State University is shaking up traditional fundraising structures to better align with institutional priorities. VP Rita Walters walks us through key shifts, such as moving from embedded gift officers to a centralized generalist model, and placing digital engagement under the stewardship umbrella. Gain insights into change management, future-proofing your team, and fostering a culture of philanthropy across campus.

The nonprofit sector is evolving, and embracing technology is essential for staying ahead. Janine discusses how artificial intelligence is transforming fundraising, from chatbots to predictive analytics. Learn how your organization can leverage these cutting-edge tools to increase efficiency, personalize donor engagement, and ultimately, drive more impact.

Discover how Bryon Grigsby, Moravian University's 16th president, led a record-breaking $78 million fundraising campaign. From innovative alumni engagement strategies to leveraging data analytics, Grigsby shares invaluable insights on modern university fundraising and leadership.

President Robert Wagner shares his strategy for turning around Idaho State University's $16 million deficit and launching its first comprehensive campaign in 25 years. Discover how he's reigniting alumni passion and reshaping the university's future through strategic fundraising and community engagement.

Discover how Megan Tucker is revolutionizing elder care fundraising at Cassia. From innovative donor cultivation strategies to overcoming unique challenges in long-term care, Tucker shares insights on building meaningful relationships and inspiring generosity. Learn how philanthropy can truly foster fullness of life for seniors and donors alike.

Dzenan Berberovic shares his inspiring journey from refugee to Chief Philanthropy Officer at Avera Health. Learn how he transformed fundraising efforts, increasing annual donations from $17.7M to $46.6M through relationship-based giving and a culture of gratitude in healthcare.

Jess Larsen, CEO of Graystoke Networks and co-founder of Child Rescue Association, shares his unconventional approach to nonprofit fundraising. Discover how authentic relationships, dinner parties, and a focus on giving first have fueled his organization's growth and impact in combating child trafficking.

Mike Glauser, Executive Director at Utah State University, shares his journey from frozen yogurt entrepreneur to academic leader. Discover innovative fundraising strategies, including a cross-country bike ride for poverty alleviation, and learn how entrepreneurship skills can transform lives across various sectors.

Explore the world of high-impact fundraising with Lindsay Hadley, the mastermind behind the Global Citizen Festival. Learn how she transformed charity events, leveraged celebrity influence, and ventured into film production to create lasting social change and raise millions for global causes.

Greg Warner, CEO of MarketSmart, shares his innovative approach to fundraising that focuses on donor engagement and trust-building. Discover how offering value and understanding donor stories can lead to larger gifts and more meaningful connections in the nonprofit world, how AI is reshaping the fundraising landscape.

Discover how Paul J. Maurer, President of Montreat College, raised nearly $100 million in gifts, pledges, and grants. Learn his unique approach to vision-driven fundraising, relationship-building, and leading with humility in higher education.

University presidents play a crucial role in fundraising, but how do they strike the right balance between being present on campus and engaging with donors? Join President Alison Morrison-Shetlar as she reveals her approach to dedicating 50% or more of her time to fundraising while maintaining a strong connection with the university community.

Raising money for a good cause? Brant Pinvidic's 3-Minute Rule still applies. Learn how to make your fundraising pitch laser-focused on what your organization does, why it matters, and how the money will be used - not vague promises to "save the world". Hear real examples of non-profit leaders using the 3-minute structure to secure major gifts and grants.

Uncover the incredible potential of volunteer engagement in boosting fundraising success. Learn how Alma College's innovative Alumni Ambassador program engaged thousands of volunteers, leading to record-breaking campaign results. Discover practical strategies for creating a volunteer-driven fundraising culture at your institution.