PODCAST · arts
Portnoy Media Lab
by Dan Portnoy
Hosted by writer, filmmaker, and creative strategist Dan Portnoy, Portnoy Media Lab is a podcast for makers and marketers trying to turn real creative work into communication that actually connects.Through honest conversations with writers, filmmakers, designers, producers, and creative leaders—and occasional solo episodes from Dan—the show explores how meaningful work gets made, how it breaks, and how it survives the marketing process.No hype. No busywork.Just field-tested thinking for people chasing meaning and impact.
Episodes
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Most Consultants Walk In With Answers. I Walked In With Questions | Behind the Scenes, Ep 3
Before I touched a campaign, I ran them through the first two lenses of a framework I built called Core4: what do they actually have, and who actually donates to them. This is the real footage of what I found. Episode 3 of a behind-the-scenes series on the whole campaign. Learn more about...
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Clean Water Gets Funded. This Doesn't. | Behind the Scenes, Episode 2
This is Episode 2 of a behind-the-scenes series on raising $200,000 in 90 days for Alabaster. The honest stuff: what's hard, what's working, what's at stake. Learn more about Alabaster: https://www.alabasterinternational.org/groundbreakers Instagram -...
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Can We Raise $200,000 in 90 Days? | Ep. 1I Asked Too Many Questions at Church
I knew Shannon and Ash from church. I had no idea they were quietly running world-class work in South Sudan, schools, kids, in one of the hardest places on earth to do any of it. Legit, and badly underfunded. So they hired me. We have until August 1 to raise $200,000, and hitting it unlocks grant...
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The Trade You Keep Forgetting to Make
What This Episode Covers The hidden reason nonprofit content underperforms Why “Sorry it’s been a while…” is a trust killer The inbox is a value exchange, not a favor Why most organizations send updates instead of insights Key Concept: The Expertise Gap The gap between: What your organization…
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Clever Is Killing Your Marketing
What This Episode Covers The “paint job vs engine” framework Why polished content often fails How AI is making shallow content easier (and worse) The difference between clever and clear The Core Problem: The Paint Job Trap Content that sounds smart but says nothing Strong visuals, weak thinking...
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Story is the Strategy
Story isn't something you add at the end of your marketing process. It's the structure that makes your message work in the first place. In Episode 4, Dan Portnoy breaks down what story actually is at its most fundamental level — not long-form content, not guilt-trip videos with soft music — but a...
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Before You Post Anything, Answer This Question
In today's fast-paced business environment, defining success is crucial for any marketing strategy to yield the desired results. Many teams focus on developing a growth strategy that emphasizes marketing tactics and ROI, but often overlook a critical question that can make or break their…
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Most Marketing Advice Is Noise
Key Ideas Most marketing advice conflicts because it’s designed to sell products, not solve your problem Strategy defines the goal; tactics support it—not the other way around Algorithms change constantly; your story is the only stable asset There are no shortcuts—momentum comes from sustained...
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The Trap That’s Killing Your Team’s Creativity
Episode Notes: This is Episode 1 of the Portnoy Media Lab Podcast New episodes explore clarity, systems, and creative work that actually moves the needle Resources and tools mentioned are available at danportnoy.com/resources Blog posts publish Tuesdays; personal reflections on Substack publish...
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Trailer — Portnoy Media Lab Podcast
The Portnoy Media Lab Podcast is for makers and marketers trying to turn real creative work into communication that actually connects. Hosted by writer, filmmaker, and creative strategist Dan Portnoy, the show features honest conversations with writers, filmmakers, designers, producers, and...
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The Core of Strategic Planning: Where Are We Now?
Introduction: Reflecting on last week's episode and transitioning to the present. Assessing Your Current Position: Checking in with yourself and your morale. Identifying areas of dissatisfaction and improvement. Aligning with mission statements and values. Gathering feedback from colleagues....
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The Core of Strategic Planning: Building a Stronger Year
Welcome to the Nonprofit Narrative Podcast, where we discuss marketing, storytelling, and systems to help your business or nonprofit thrive. In this episode, we cover: The importance of taking your time with strategic planning. How to reflect on the past year and set meaningful goals for the...
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The Importance of Design with Ryan Portnoy
Join me on the latest episode of the Nonprofit Narrative Podcast as I chat with my brother, Ryan Portnoy, a design wizard who helps small nonprofits tell their stories through stunning design. We dive deep into the world of nonprofit design, sharing insights on how great design can enhance...
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Maximizing Grant Writing for Funding Success
In this insightful episode titled "Maximizing Grant Writing for Funding Success," experts Dan Portnoy and Lara Pimentel share transformative strategies for nonprofits seeking to enhance their grant acquisition and foster impactful relationships. Discover practical tips on crafting compelling…
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Episode 27 - Strategic Messaging for Your Nonprofit
Kristin Spiotto, the co-founder and CEO of Decoded Strategies, shares insights on strategic messaging for nonprofits. She emphasizes the importance of clear and customer-focused messaging, avoiding confusion and making the audience the story's hero. Kristin also discusses the role of AI in...
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Intro to Unfriend The Children - 10 crucial pieces for your welcome video
Hello, and welcome to the nonprofit narrative podcast, the go-to space for marketing managers and development directors passionate about taking their nonprofits to new heights. I'm your host, Dan Portnoy high. In each episode, we will dive into the world of nonprofit storytelling, donor…
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The Nonprofit Narrative Academy
I'm thrilled to unveil an idea two years in the making. It will be a game-changer for you and your organization: The Nonprofit Narrative Academy. Each month follows a theme to maximize an organization's story and put the pieces in place for maximum communication. And each month, you'll learn how…
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Matt Beans
In the ever-evolving world of nonprofit organizations, the ability to craft a compelling narrative and tell a captivating story can be the difference between achieving your mission and getting lost in the noise. In today's episode, we welcome 6-time Primetime Emmy nominee writer Matt Beans, a...
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Giving Tuesday
What if you aren't ready for Giving Tuesday? Don't worry, I'm here to help. This week is a 7-part training I made to help Giving Tuesday be amazing. Watch the training here - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLE2kh3qUPEGSc-5BGce0HrgaxNRNl7Uds Download the sample editorial calendar here -...
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Nonprofit Mail Fail
Don't let this happen to you! I recently received a mailing from a nonprofit that was big and jam-packed with goodies for me but there was zero connection. What should you do? Listen in to find out. www.danportnoy.substack.com www.PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www.DanPortnoy.com
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Dave Avramovich
Okay, here we go. Hey, welcome to the show. My name is Dan. This is the nonprofit narrative podcast. In today's episode, our first journey together. This is an interview that I did a couple of months back with Dave Avramovich. He's a young life area director, he is responsible for the Los Angeles...
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Welcome
New for 2022! The Nonprofit Narrative Podcast is to help you tell your story the best way possible and connect with more donors and the community better than ever. I hope you'll join us. www.danportnoy.substack.com www.PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www.DanPortnoy.com
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Rory Tyer - Go Innovation
Connect with Rory Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/go_innovation/ Website: http://go-innovation.com www.danportnoy.substack.com www.PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www.DanPortnoy.com
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Kristin Spiotto - Decoded Finances
Connect with Kristin Website: https://decodedfinances.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decodedfinances/ Spreadsheet - Download on Kristin's website - CLICK HERE Budget Resources: Mint- http://www.mint.com YouNeedABudget - http://www.youneedabudget.com Every Dollar -...
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Joey Spiotto
Joey Contact Website: http://www.jo3bot.com Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/joebot/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jo3bot/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jo3bot/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JoeySpiotto Grumpy Unicorn -...
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The Non-Profit Narrative - Mike Rusch
This week I talk with Mike Rusch, CEO of Pure Charity. Mike talks about the downstream issues of bad communication and fundraising and how storytelling can fix much of what ails a non-profit. Give it a listen. Connect with Mike Rusch Personal Website - mikerusch.com Biz Website - purecharity.org...
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The Non-Profit Narrative - Angie Albright
This week I talk with Angie Albright, Director of The Clinton House Museum & Historic Castle in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Angie talks about being reminded of places to insert story into our campaigns, letters, and communications as well as switching perspectives to not bore your audience. Give it a...
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The Non-Profit Narrative - Ken Mueller
This week I talk with Ken Mueller, Public Relations and Development Manager at The Occupational Development Center in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Ken walks us through how he's used the framework of The Non-Profit Narrative to help communicate better externally but also internally. Connect with Ken...
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The Non-Profit Narrative - Naheemah McMicheaux-McCallop
This week I talk with Naheemah McMicheaux-McCallop, she's the Director of Fund Development for the East LA Community Corporation (ELACC) Naheemah and her team have taken their communication to a new level. Connect with Naheemah and ELACC Instagram - @naheemahmcmicheaux Twitter - @takebackyourpen...
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busbee - Do The Work
The interview is from 2015, and I intentionally left it a little rough, but the encouragement and wisdom is timeless - do the work. I miss him already. Thanks for listening. www.danportnoy.substack.com www.PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www.DanPortnoy.com
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The Non-Profit Narrative - Brad Voigt
First up is Brad Voigt, he's the area director of Young Life in the Kansas City North area and, like many doing great work, raising money as a staff of one. I think Brad is a fantastic guy with a tremendous story. Connect with Brad Twitter - @bradvoigt Instagram - @bradvoigt A brand new, updated...
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Myles Matsuno - The Marathon
This week's episode is with filmmaker, Myles Matsuno. His latest project is We're the People, a series of portraits from people around LA, from all walks of life. I especially like this piece featuring Lacy Hartselle, but you can check out the whole series here. The music, composed by Chad Lawson...
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Heather Antos - Drive
My guest this week is Comics editor, Heather Antos. She's worked in comics for great works like Gwenpool, Star Wars, and my personal favorite, Injection by Warren Ellis. She's worked with companies like Marvel and Lucasfilm, and currently, she's shaking things up at Valiant. I'm thrilled to have...
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Kate Frachon - Goals
Kate Frachon is the brand and content manager of Ink & Volt, a community about ideas and success. I've been buying their planners for years, and they're great. Please get one; it'll help your process. If you haven't signed up for my email newsletter - do it for a chance to get a planner (drawing…
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Aaron Edelheit - Rest
We all admit that breaks are essential but are we addicted to being busy? This weeks guest is Aaron Edelheit, and he's on a mission to help us reset. This reset supports our work, families, and relationships. Together, we'll talk about the roadmap to make the better choices, put life into...
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Scott Belsky - The Messy Middle
This week’s guest is Scott Belsky. He’s an entrepreneur and author of Making Ideas Happen in 2010, but he’s best known for co-creating the online portfolio platform, Behance, Inc. In 2010, Belsky was included in Fast Company's "100 Most Creative People in Business" list. His new book, The Messy...
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Tim Grahl - Resolve
Book marketer and kingmaker of best selling authors, Tim Grahl talks us through his latest book - Running Down a Dream. Tim is a long time friend of mine, and we walk through some of the most painful moments in his pursuit to achieve a dream. www.danportnoy.substack.com www.PortnoyMedia.com/Blog...
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Chuck Rodgers - Fighting Depression & Anxiety
I don't know about you, but the death of Anthony Bourdain hit me like a ton of bricks. He was a guy that had struggled with demons, but it seemed to be in his rearview. His death was a reminder to me that our demons aren't ever that far away. Elizabeth Gilbert says in "Big Magic" that fear is...
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Josh Myers - Emotion
In episode three I talk with producer and composer Josh Myers about the use of emotion as he creates and why it's necessary for film. YouTube - Star Wars Video Minus Williams - https://youtu.be/Tj-GZJhfBmI Dunkirk Rising Tone - https://youtu.be/LVWTQcZbLgY Supercommuter - http://supercommuter.net...
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Kristina Kuzmic - Strength
Kristina Kuzmic rose to fame when she won a TV show from Oprah Winfrey in 2015. Since then she's become a voice of encouragement for women and mothers on the internet. Her videos have millions and millions of views, and her key is to be radically transparent. In this episode, we talk about how to...
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Justin McRoberts - Creativity
Justin McRoberts Author, Songwriter, Mentor We kick off the podcast with my close friend, Justin. His book, Title Pending: Things I Think About When I Make Stuff is a book that I wish I had many, many years ago. In this episode, we talk about creativity and how we can strive to make better stuff....
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Welcome To Copy That!
Hi, I’m Dan Portnoy, and I live in the Los Angeles Area. In my time here, I’ve been a creative director, a writer, a pitch man, a consultant and a filmmaker. The truth is, depending on the day, I’m still doing all these things. Over my career, I’ve worked in several creative disciplines, and no...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Hosted by writer, filmmaker, and creative strategist Dan Portnoy, Portnoy Media Lab is a podcast for makers and marketers trying to turn real creative work into communication that actually connects.Through honest conversations with writers, filmmakers, designers, producers, and creative leaders—and occasional solo episodes from Dan—the show explores how meaningful work gets made, how it breaks, and how it survives the marketing process.No hype. No busywork.Just field-tested thinking for people chasing meaning and impact.
HOSTED BY
Dan Portnoy
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Portnoy Media Lab have?
Portnoy Media Lab currently has 42 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Portnoy Media Lab about?
Hosted by writer, filmmaker, and creative strategist Dan Portnoy, Portnoy Media Lab is a podcast for makers and marketers trying to turn real creative work into communication that actually connects.Through honest conversations with writers, filmmakers, designers, producers, and creative leaders—and...
How often does Portnoy Media Lab release new episodes?
Portnoy Media Lab has 42 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Portnoy Media Lab?
You can listen to Portnoy Media Lab on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Portnoy Media Lab?
Portnoy Media Lab is created and hosted by Dan Portnoy.
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