Purpose & Profit Club® – The Nonprofit Fundraising & Marketing Podcast

I recently got an email from a development manager telling me I send too many emails. She's not wrong for feeling that way, but that feeling is rooted in one of the most expensive beliefs in nonprofit fundraising. And that's exactly what I'm unpacking in this episode.Today, I'm breaking down the data behind email frequency, what it actually costs your organization when you hold back, and why the inner monologue of "I don't want to bother people" is quietly limiting your mission. I talk about what the M+R benchmarks report actually shows about how many emails high-revenue nonprofits are sending, why campaign-based intensity is where your revenue is sitting, and what happened when one development manager followed the Easy Emails For Impact™ process and 9x'd their typical campaign results, without a single new donor on the list.P.S. Easy Emails For Impact™ enrollment is now open with 50% off. Go to splendidcourses.com/email for all the details.Topics:Why "you send too many emails" is rooted in one of the most expensive beliefs in fundraisingWhat the M+R benchmarks report actually shows about email frequency and revenue growthThe difference between sending more emails and sending more emails at the right timeWhy holding back during a campaign window is limiting your mission, not protecting your donorsHow one development manager 9x'd campaign results by staying in the conversation longerWhy you're not building your strategy around your donorsWhy email revenue grew 16% last year, and what that means for organizations not tapping into itFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

AI is everywhere right now, and in the nonprofit sector, it's making some organizations' fundraising sharper and others completely generic. The difference isn't the tool; it's how you're using it.In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly where AI helps and where it quietly hurts your fundraising emails. I talk about the most expensive mistake I see nonprofits making - handing the wheel over to AI completely and treating the first draft like the final answer. I share how my clients inside The SPRINT Method™ and The Purpose & Profit Club® are actually using AI as a thought partner, not a ghostwriter, and what the difference looks like in results. If you've been using AI to write your emails faster but wondering why nothing is converting, this episode will show you why, and what to do instead.P.S. Easy Emails For Impact™ enrollment opens May 7 with 50% off the course. Go to splendidcourses.com/email to get first access and learn more.Topics:Why AI is making some nonprofit emails sharper and others completely generic, and what determines the differenceThe GPS analogy: why AI should help you get there faster, not decide where you're goingWhat to use AI for and what to never hand over to it in your fundraisingHow to spot an AI-written email, and why they raise nothing even when they look polishedUsing AI as a thought partner to push your ideas deeper, not replace themA simple three-question filter to run before you hit sendFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If sending emails feels like something you dread, rush, or quietly avoid, this episode is for you. I walk through the seven reasons nonprofit emails aren't converting into donations, and I want you to listen not for what sounds good, but for where you recognize yourself, because the second you see it, you can change it.From writing emails that are polished but completely forgettable to stopping too soon just as momentum is about to build, these are the patterns I see across organizations of every size, from solo founders to teams with 100,000 subscribers. None of this is about making yourself feel bad. It's about getting clear on what's actually getting in the way, because most of these are simple fixes that just take a little courage to do differently.Topics:Why "fine" emails that aren't wrong are still completely forgettable, and what a converting email actually doesHow your energy and relationship with email show up in your writing and affect resultsWhy assuming your donors hate email is one of the most expensive beliefs in nonprofit fundraisingThe difference between repetition that annoys and repetition that actually lands your messageHow to find the micro moments inside your everyday work that make the most powerful emailsWhy most campaigns die in the middle, and how to stay in it when it feels quietFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Somewhere along the way, many nonprofit leaders start carrying a version of their story that is heavier than it needs to be. A missed goal becomes proof they should be further along; a hard year becomes evidence they're behind; and what's tricky is that this story can sound incredibly responsible, measured, even accurate, but it's still a story. And it's costing you funding.In this episode, I introduce the concept of the wound version versus the hero's version, and why the story you're telling about your organization (to your donors, your board, your team, and yourself) changes everything about how people experience your leadership and your asks. I walk through how to identify your wound story, rewrite it as the hero's version, and why this isn't about spin or fake positivity. It's about refusing to lead from a place that weakens you. Same facts → Different meaning → Different results.Topics:Why the story nonprofit leaders tell about their organization directly impacts fundingThe wound version vs. the hero's version, and how to tell the differenceHow a wound story leaks into donor conversations, campaign language, and board updatesWhy "realistic" language often shrinks leadership and repels donorsA step-by-step process for rewriting your wound story into the hero's versionReal examples of how the same facts can be told in two completely different waysFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Online fundraising isn't hard because your donors aren't online. It's hard because most nonprofit leaders were never actually taught how to fundraise in the first place, and that's exactly what I'm fixing in this episode.In this follow-up to last week's episode on campaign frequency, I dig into why so many organizations try online fundraising once, don't hit their goal, and walk away convinced it doesn't work for them. I break down what a real SPRINT™ campaign looks like versus what most nonprofits do (sending one email, posting a donation link, and hoping for the best). I cover the data behind email fundraising, why your donors aren't as offline as you think, and why a donate button is not a strategy. If you've ever told yourself online fundraising just doesn't work for your organization, this episode will change how you see that.Topics:Why 99% of nonprofit leaders were never actually taught how to run a campaignThe difference between fundraising activity and a real campaign strategyWhy your donors aren't as offline as you think, and how to invite them into a new giving habitWhat a real SPRINT™ campaign looks like versus one email and a donation linkThe snowball effect, and why momentum makes giving psychologically contagiousWhy a small email list isn't a barrier when the message is strongFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Most nonprofit leaders assume that million-dollar organizations are doing something they can't: bigger teams, bigger events, bigger budgets. But when you actually look at how high-growth nonprofits raise unrestricted money at scale, the secret isn't size; it's speed.Today, I break down why million-dollar-plus organizations run five to ten times as many fundraising campaigns per year as smaller nonprofits, and why that rhythm (not the gala or the grant cycle) is what actually drives sustainable funding growth. I make the case for short, focused, online SPRINT™ campaigns as the modern fundraising engine your organization can start using now, regardless of team size, budget, or donor list size. If you've been waiting for the perfect moment, the bigger team, or the windfall grant to grow your funding, this episode is your wake-up call.Topics:Why high-growth nonprofits run 5–10x more campaigns per year (not bigger ones)How over-reliance on galas, grants, and signature events keeps organizations stuck waiting for fundingWhy speed is the real fundraising advantage, and how SPRINT™ campaigns collapse timelinesThe difference between posting a donation link and running an actual campaignReal client results: from Live Music Project to Sharing Hope AfricaWhy a small donor list isn't a reason to fundraise less; it's a reason to sprint smarterFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

What does it look like when a solo nonprofit founder stops playing small and finally breaks through her fundraising ceiling? In this episode, I’m joined by Mary Muroski, founder and Executive Director of the Children's Legacy Partnership Foundation. After 20 years of teaching middle school and nearly a decade building her Uganda-based foundation (largely alone), Mary hit a wall. She was doing everything, raising from the same small circle of friends and family, and couldn't figure out what came next. Then she discovered The SPRINT Method™. Mary shares how she went from a $3,000 year-end campaign to hitting a $12,000 goal, achieving her first five-figure revenue month, and building the systems, confidence, and board accountability that will carry the organization forward. This is a must-listen for any small nonprofit founder who feels like they've taken their organization as far as they can go alone.Topics:Building a nonprofit solo while working full-time, and knowing when to go all inHow weekly emails became the foundation for consistent donor engagement and campaign conversionsRunning a focused SPRINT Method™ campaign that raised $12K to fully fund a girls' vocational center in UgandaWhy monthly donors are your biggest evangelists (not a group to protect from your asks)The difference between therapy and coaching, and how accountability drives fundraising resultsBoard building done right: applications, term limits, and having the hard conversationsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Sometimes the most powerful shifts in fundraising start with a simple decision: we’re not doing it the old way anymore.That’s exactly what happened for Sophia Caputo and Jami Porzl, co-founders of Sharing Hope Africa. Balancing full-time careers, they were preparing for a large gala when they decided to pause and rethink their approach. What followed was a completely different fundraising path, one built on clarity, community, and focused campaigns using The SPRINT Method™.In this conversation, we discuss what shifted when they stopped guessing and started fundraising with intention: activating their board, building donor momentum, growing their confidence in making asks, and planning for long-term sustainability, including a community chicken coop designed to eventually fund the preschool permanently.This episode is a powerful look at what happens when strategy replaces burnout, and when small nonprofits step into bold leadership.Topics:Building a nonprofit while working full-time jobsPivoting from a high-cost gala to a lower-lift fundraising eventUsing a focused SPRINT™ strategy to raise $20K in monthsMoving from friends-and-family donors to a real donor pipelineActivating board members as fundraisersThe impact of funding on a preschool in MozambiqueLong-term sustainability through community-led solutionsThe moment they hit their fundraising goal in the first 10 minutes of an eventFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If your nonprofit feels stuck at the same funding level year after year, the problem might not actually be your donors. It might be your calendar.In this episode, I’m introducing a leadership habit I call CEO Time. It’s the protected time where nonprofit leaders step out of the constant reaction cycle and focus on the work that actually generates revenue.Too often, nonprofit leaders spend their weeks managing operations, responding to emails, preparing board materials, and solving daily problems. All of that work matters, but none of it directly builds the funding pipeline that allows an organization to grow. CEO Time is different. It’s where leaders focus on donor conversations, relationship-building, partnerships, campaign strategy, and the work that drives real fundraising momentum.I’m sharing why so many nonprofits plateau financially, even when their missions are powerful, how leadership time gets misallocated, and what happens when leaders begin to protect even a few hours each week for revenue-generating work. If you’ve ever ended the day exhausted but unsure whether you actually moved your organization forward, this episode will help you rethink how leadership time shapes your nonprofit’s future funding.Topics:Why many nonprofits plateau financially despite strong missionsThe concept of CEO Time and why it matters for nonprofit growthHow operational overload prevents leaders from focusing on revenueThe difference between busy work and revenue-generating leadership workThe burnout cycle caused by constant reaction and operational pressureStrategic activities that actually build funding pipelinesDonor conversations and relationship-building as revenue driversWhy courage and boundaries are essential leadership skillsHow protecting strategic time can rebuild fundraising momentumHow the SPRINT Method™ supports focused fundraising campaignsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

What does the Winter Olympics have to do with monthly giving? More than you think. Watching Alysa Liu’s gold medal performance, I couldn’t stop thinking about magnetism, how some athletes make you want to cheer for them, root for them, watch them again and again. That’s the energy monthly giving requires.In this episode, I explain why simply adding a “give monthly” checkbox to your donation form isn’t a strategy. Recurring revenue isn’t built through automation; it’s built through retention, campaign energy, and relational depth. Monthly giving is the result of belonging, not billing. If your recurring program has stalled or never quite taken off, this episode will help you see what needs to happen first, and how to build a system that compounds instead of resets. Monthly giving isn’t the engine; it’s what happens when the engine is working.Topics:Why monthly giving is the result, not the strategyThe difference between a payment feature and a real programRetention before recurring revenueWhy trust-building must happen before asking for commitmentThe role of campaign energy in monthly giving growthBelonging vs. billing: creating identity for donorsHow to know if your nonprofit is ready to launchWhy donors are absolutely “monthly people”Subscription economy and donor behaviorHow to integrate monthly giving into your full fundraising ecosystemFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Most nonprofits think influencer partnerships mean celebrity shoutouts, paid posts, or “social media strategy.” That’s not what this is.In this episode, I break down why influencer partnerships are actually about borrowed trust, not follower count. I explain why 99% of nonprofits are missing this opportunity, how to build true ambassador relationships instead of transactional posts, and why this works even if you don’t have a big budget. I talk about the Social Street Team® Method, why influence is a free visibility superhighway, and how to use it to warm donors before you ever ask. If your organization feels like the best-kept secret in town, this episode is your blueprint to change that.Topics:Why influencer partnerships are not social media tacticsThe difference between creators and influencersBorrowed trust vs. follower countWhy transactional posts don’t workThe Social Street Team® Method explainedHow influence builds donor momentum and retentionCommon mistakes nonprofits make with influencer campaignsWhy campaigns must convert before influencers amplifyReal-world example: Jones Road Beauty’s growth strategyHow to build long-term ambassador relationshipsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

What if your fundraising challenges aren’t about effort, but about design?In this episode, I break down six indicators that your fundraising strategy may be quietly underperforming. If your team feels tired, campaigns feel heavier every time, or growth has plateaued despite working harder, this conversation will give you clarity. I unpack the hidden signs I see in nonprofit teams: overreliance on a few people, waiting instead of inviting, campaign cold starts, stalled monthly giving, and measuring success by campaign rather than by donor. This episode is about momentum, alignment, and designing a fundraising engine that compounds instead of resets. If you’ve ever said “we’ve tried everything,” this one is for you.Topics:Why “we’ve tried everything” is often a strategy design issueThe difference between momentum problems and donor problemsWorking harder vs. working with leverageThe danger of relying on the same few peopleWhy waiting instead of inviting stalls growthCold-start campaigns and donor churnWhy monthly giving fails without primingMeasuring success per donor vs. per campaignStrategy hopping vs. shared operating systemsDesigning fundraising systems that compound over timeFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you want bigger gifts, stronger partnerships, and more sustainable revenue, you can’t grow in isolation.In this episode, I’m breaking down what strategic networking actually looks like for nonprofit leaders, and why staying hidden in your inbox is one of the fastest ways to stall growth. This isn’t about awkward mixers, cheesy pitches, or forcing yourself to be someone you’re not. It’s about intentionally placing yourself in rooms where influence, generosity, and decision-making already exist, and learning how to show up with confidence, clarity, and alignment. I talk about why familiar routines keep organizations stuck at the same revenue ceilings, how one conversation can collapse years of cultivation, and the exact types of rooms nonprofit leaders should prioritize if they want to raise more without burning out. If you’re ready to stop doing great work quietly and start building real momentum, this episode will shift how you think about networking forever.Topics:Why nonprofit growth requires proximity, not more hustleThe difference between old-school networking and strategic networkingHow one conversation can bypass years of donor cultivationWhy staying “in your lane” keeps revenue cappedThe four types of rooms nonprofit leaders must prioritizeHow to network without feeling salesy or awkwardWhy asking great questions makes you more memorableHow visibility leads to funding opportunitiesBuilding a consistent networking habit without burnoutTurning conversations into warm introductions and partnershipsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

I see this pattern constantly with nonprofit leaders: staying busy, staying loyal to systems and strategies that feel familiar, and wondering why results have plateaued. Today, I break down what I call the familiarity trap,  the tendency to cling to fundraising tactics, tools, and routines not because they’re effective, but because they’re comfortable. I talk about how burnout often shows up as indecision, avoidance, and endless tinkering instead of forward momentum. I unpack why familiarity feels safe to the brain, how it keeps leaders stuck in low-impact work, and why decisiveness (not perfection) is the fastest way out. If you’re circling the same decisions, rewriting the same content, avoiding donor outreach, or telling yourself you’ll “deal with it later,” this episode will help you recognize what’s actually happening and show you how to interrupt the cycle with clarity and courage.Topics:What the familiarity trap is and why it’s so common in nonprofitsHow burnout shows up as indecision and avoidanceWhy “thinking about thinking” keeps leaders stuckThe neuroscience behind comfort, fear, and decision-makingWhy decisiveness beats perfection every timeHow familiar tasks drain energy without moving revenueThe cost of delaying donor outreach and key decisionsHow to choose one path and commit long enough to see resultsThe difference between being careful and being stalledFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’ve found yourself feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or wondering how you’re supposed to do another year of fundraising like this, this episode is for you.In this episode, I’m breaking down what fundraising burnout actually is and why it keeps showing up for capable, committed nonprofit leaders. This isn’t about working harder, pushing through, or needing more discipline. Most burnout isn’t solved by rest alone. It comes from carrying too many open decisions, too many mental tabs, and too much responsibility without enough structure or support. I talk about how stress cycles stay open in fundraising, how avoidance and indecision quietly drain your energy, and why clarity and decisiveness often bring more relief than another day off. I also share practical ways to close loops, reduce overwhelm, and rebuild momentum without burning yourself out again. If fundraising has started to feel heavy or unsustainable, this episode will help you understand what’s happening beneath the surface and give you a clearer, more supportive path forward.Topics:What is fundraising burnout, and what it isn’tWhy burnout is often a stress cycle, not just exhaustionDecision fatigue and its impact on fundraising momentumHow avoidance and “tinkering” worsen burnoutWhy rest alone doesn’t close open mental loopsThe power of decisiveness as a leadership toolHow to break big, overwhelming tasks into bite-sized actionsUsing movement to complete the stress cycleIdentifying what’s urgent vs. what just feels urgentBuilding systems that reduce burnout long-termFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, and still staring at the same fundraising numbers, this episode is your reset.In this episode, I’m breaking down why most nonprofit leaders don’t actually need more ideas, tactics, or tools; they need better systems, clearer priorities, and fewer distractions. I walk through the hidden reasons fundraising can feel chaotic, how “busy” can disguise stagnation, and what it actually looks like to move from reactive mode to focused, revenue-driving leadership. I talk about simplifying your calendar, choosing fewer strategies that actually convert, and building a fundraising rhythm that supports growth without burnout. This episode is for nonprofit leaders who are done carrying everything alone and ready to organize their fundraising to create momentum, confidence, and results in 2026.Topics:Why overwhelm is a systems problem, not a motivation problemHow “busy work” keeps revenue flatThe cost of running too many fundraising strategies at onceWhat it really means to get organized for growthWhy clarity beats hustle in modern fundraisingHow to simplify your calendar without slowing momentumThe difference between activity and progressBuilding a repeatable fundraising rhythm for 2026Leading with confidence instead of reactionCreating space for sustainable fundraising successFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

What does it really look like to run a focused fundraising SPRINT™ without a gala, a big team, or running yourself into the ground?In this episode, I’m joined by Megan Ihnen, Executive Director of Live Music Project, for an honest conversation about what actually changed when she simplified her approach and trusted momentum over perfection. In just two weeks, Megan raised 108% of her campaign goal, not by doing more, but by doing the right things in the right order. We talk about what happens when you stop overcomplicating fundraising, shorten the timeline, lean into direct, human asks, and activate the network you already have. We also get real about burnout, fear of asking, donor psychology, matching gifts, peer-to-peer fundraising, and why speed and clarity almost always outperform polish. If you’re feeling stretched thin, second-guessing your strategy, or stuck repeating tactics that aren’t moving the needle, this episode will help you see what’s possible when fundraising finally works with you instead of against you.Topics:Why collapsing timelines creates fundraising momentumMoving from burnout to clarity with sprint-style campaignsActivating your personal network without guilt or fearThe power of texting and direct human asksMatching gifts as momentum multipliersBoard and peer-to-peer fundraising done simplyNavigating rejection, silence, and donor non-responseUsing AI as a thought partner, not a replacementStewardship and nurturing after a successful SPRINT™Turning one campaign into a repeatable fundraising systemFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

In this episode, I’m joined again by Nathan Ruby, Executive Director of Friends of the Children of Haiti (FOTCOH), who has spent more than twenty years raising major gifts, and doing it without relying on galas, grants, or flashy events. Instead, Nathan has built a deeply effective fundraising engine through micro events: small, relationship-centered gatherings hosted by board members and key volunteers.Nathan walks us through the exact structure of these 45-minute “CPM events,” why they consistently attract the right donors, and how they eliminate the burnout, costs, and low ROI that plague traditional events. We talk about capacity-based invitations, board coaching, donor psychology, follow-up strategy, and why the biggest gifts usually happen after the event, not during. If you want a practical, high-impact, board-friendly strategy for securing major gifts in 2026 and beyond, this conversation will give you the blueprint.Topics:Why traditional galas are expensive, draining, and rarely profitable long-termWhat micro events (CPMs) are, and why they outperform large eventsHow to structure a 45-minute micro event for maximum connectionWhy small groups (even 2–3 couples) lead to stronger donor relationshipsHow to help board members invite the right people with capacityThe role of the ED in follow-up and major gift cultivationHow international or remote nonprofits can use micro events to expand nationallyWhy fundraising is ultimately about relationshipsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

In Part 2 of my 2026 Fundraising Trends series, we’re going deeper into the tools, tech, and leadership shifts that will define nonprofit growth this year. If Part 1 was about strategy and visibility, this episode is about the systems and decision-making that actually make those strategies possible. I discuss upgrading outdated CRMs and donation tools, the rise of AI-assisted fundraising, the acceleration of donor-advised fund (DAF) giving, why leaders must color outside the lines to stay relevant, and how decision speed has become a key competitive advantage for nonprofits. I close with a look at the tech-driven donor experience, a world where frictionless giving, mobile-first design, SMS, and fast follow-up matter more than ever. If you’re committed to modernizing your fundraising and leading boldly in 2026, these two-part episodes are your roadmap.Topics:Why Q1 is the perfect time to evaluate and upgrade CRMs, donation tools, and ESPsHow outdated tech silently kills conversion, retention, and reportingThe rise of AI-assisted fundraising as a normal acceleratorHow to use AI without losing your voice, authenticity, or accuracyDonor-Advised Funds (DAFs) are becoming a mainstream giving vehicleWhy nonprofits must “color outside the lines” and break legacy rulesThe need to drop slow, outdated tactics (raffles, auctions, galas) for modern, efficient onesDecision speed is a leadership advantage that drives revenuePerfectionism and committees as momentum killers in 2026The shift toward frictionless giving: SMS, mobile-first donations, automations, and welcome flowsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you want to grow in 2026, you cannot rely on outdated playbooks or wait for a perfect case study to tell you what to do. In this two-part series, I’m breaking down the real fundraising trends I’m seeing across every organization in my ecosystem, not theory, not headlines, not generic Google wisdom. These trends are based on live data, donor behavior, digital strategy sessions, leadership conversations, and thousands of campaigns across my programs, and they’re already reshaping how nonprofits grow.In Part 1, I cover six strategic and visibility shifts that will define the highest-performing organizations in 2026, from audience growth as a core revenue engine to the rise of laptop fundraising, human amplifiers, scrappy leader-driven content, superfan retention, and the ROI of LinkedIn thought leadership. If you want to reduce lag time, lead with clarity, and raise more with less friction, this episode provides the roadmap.Topics:Audience growth as a primary revenue engine for 2026The rise of laptop fundraising and email-first digital campaignsShort, fast “sprint” campaigns outperforming long, traditional plansThe power of human amplifiers and Social Street Teams®Why authenticity-driven, “break the fourth wall” content converts betterCreating long-term superfans instead of one-time donorsLinkedIn is the most underutilized high-ROI visibility channelWhy clarity, action, and visibility will outperform caution in 2026For a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you believed the headlines this year, you’d think generosity was shrinking. Inflation up. Layoffs everywhere. Grant budgets tightening. Every sector talking about a downturn and uncertainty. But inside my world (thousands of podcast listeners, email subscribers, clients, and community members), the story was completely different. This year was record-breaking! Record-breaking campaigns, major gifts, digital fundraising wins, growth for my clients, and for my own business.In this episode, I share the seven biggest lessons that created growth in a year everyone expected to be hard, lessons about donor behavior, clarity, courage, visibility, momentum, risk, and the kind of leadership that drives revenue even when the headlines say otherwise. If you want a roadmap for your next year (one grounded in data, psychology, and lived experience), this is the episode to bookmark.Topics:Why donor behavior outperformed negative economic headlinesHow fast, clear digital sprint campaigns outperformed long, traditional fundraising plansWhere donor friction still kills revenue (and what to fix immediately)Why decisive, courageous action beats cautious planning in a slow economyHow confidence compounds (and fear compounds) in fundraising leadershipWhy do the biggest revenue days happen at the very end of a campaignThe relationship between bold visibility, clear messaging, and attracting the right donorsWhy criticism is a normal (and often healthy) sign of growthThe importance of letting go (donors, systems, or staff) to make room for the next levelWhy you must stop putting donors in boxes and upgrade based on relationship, not assumptionsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’re worried you’re behind on year-end fundraising, take a breath; December isn’t over. In fact, the most generous days of the year are still ahead.In this episode, I break down the three hidden psychological reasons donors give again before year-end, even if they've already given this month. I go deep into donor momentum, identity and reciprocity, and why “donor fatigue” is one of the biggest myths in our sector. You’ll learn how to use progress updates, public-facing goals, segmentation, tailored messaging, and consistent communication to activate second gifts without feeling repetitive or overwhelming. If you’ve been worried about asking again or feeling late in the game, this episode will give you the clarity, confidence, and data-backed strategy to finish the year strong.Topics:Why December remains the most generous month of the yearThe psychology behind donors giving twice in a short windowHow the Zeigarnik Effect makes donors want to “finish the goal”Why public-facing goals and progress bars dramatically increase conversionsHow donor identity and reciprocity activate second giftsThe myth of monthly donor “offense” and why you should ask them againWhy internal fatigue is misinterpreted as donor fatigueHow staying visible sustains momentum (and silence breaks it)Why December 31 outperforms GivingTuesday nearly 3:1The importance of resending emails to non-openersFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Major gift fundraising is where many nonprofit leaders freeze, but not because they lack passion or skill. The fear lives in the body, the brain, and the stories we tell ourselves long before we walk into the room.In this episode, I’m joined by Nathan Ruby, Executive Director of FOTCOH (Friends of the Children of Haiti), one of the rare EDs who has raised millions of dollars from individual donors, not foundations. Nathan brings 20+ years of experience in major gifts, donor psychology, cross-cultural fundraising, and what it actually takes to have confident, courageous donor conversations. Together, we discuss the neuroscience behind fear and rejection, how imposter syndrome shows up during big asks, why culturally we struggle to talk about money, and why donors actually want us to be honest and direct. If you struggle with fear, freezing, or overthinking around major gift asks, this conversation will change how you fundraise forever.Topics:Why major gift fear is not a personality flaw,  it’s neuroscienceHow to reframe donor conversations by focusing on the people you serveWhy donors are used to talking about money (and why you don't need to be scared)The science behind rejection and why “no” activates the same regions as physical painNathan’s background in sales and how it shaped his fearless fundraising mindsetHow to use donor questions to inform the right ask amountWhy genuine honesty is more magnetic than a perfect pitchWhy your donors want you to win and how to invite them into partnershipFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’ve hit that post-campaign wall, tired, drained, and wondering if anyone else feels the same, this episode is for you.In today’s episode, I share what to do when you’re completely wiped from GivingTuesday or a year-end push but still have fundraising goals to hit. You’ll learn how to recover strategically (without going silent), re-engage donors who gave once, and use short “sprint campaigns” to rebuild your energy and results. Because burnout isn’t a sign that you’re doing it wrong, it’s a signal that you need structure, rest, and a smarter rhythm to your fundraising.Topics:What is the campaign hangover, and why is it completely normalHow to recover from fundraising fatigue without losing momentumWhy rest and structure are non-negotiable for sustainable growthHow to design “sprint-style” campaigns that prevent burnoutWhy donors often give again within the same 30-day windowThe importance of shifting your message post-campaign, not going silentQuick two-minute tweaks to boost conversions without new contentHow to reuse winning posts, emails, and videos from earlier campaignsThe three ways to reset your energy fast (walk, talk, or move your body)How to push smarter, not harder, through the end of the yearFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’ve ever caught yourself overthinking a donor email, hesitating to post, or waiting for “the perfect timing” to launch your next campaign, this episode is for you.In today’s episode, I reveal the mindset pattern that’s quietly keeping you stuck: fear disguised as strategy. You’ll learn how to recognize when your “planning” is really just procrastination, why bravery always comes before clarity, and how to finally stop waiting for confidence to arrive before taking action. This is your invitation to stop playing small, lead boldly, and start moving your mission forward, even when it feels uncomfortable.Topics:The real reason fundraisers hold back from taking actionHow fear disguises itself as overplanning and perfectionismThe myth that confidence comes before action (it doesn’t!)Why “just one more draft” is often procrastination in disguiseSimple mindset shifts to replace hesitation with courageous leadershipReal examples of clients who learned to take messy, brave actionWhy bravery builds trust with donors faster than polish ever willThe power of momentum in building confidence and clarityFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Every year, billions are donated on GivingTuesday, but only a small percentage of nonprofits turn that day into real momentum.In this episode, I share exactly what the top 1% of nonprofits do differently to make GivingTuesday their biggest fundraising win of the year (without burnout, perfectionism, or chaos). You’ll learn the seven steps to lead with clarity, confidence, and courage, from creating a curated donation page to leading on email, activating your team, and treating the day like a 24-hour relay, not a morning sprint. Whether you’re a small shop or scaling organization, this episode is your roadmap to modern, high-converting campaigns that work,  even when you’re short on time. Because GivingTuesday isn’t about doing it all, it’s about doing the right things, decisively.Topics:The seven skills that set the top 1% of nonprofits apart on GivingTuesdayWhy perfectionism kills momentum, and how to lead with confidence insteadThe difference between generic donation forms and curated GivingTuesday pagesHow to prime donors without overwhelming themMyths that keep small orgs from participating, and how to bust themHow to activate your board, volunteers, and community so you’re not fundraising aloneWhy email outperforms social, and how to write messages that convertThe “It ain’t over till it’s over” mindset: treating GivingTuesday like a 24-hour relayHow to hit your goal even if your morning looks slowFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’re ending your workday exhausted but can’t point to how you actually moved your fundraising forward, you might be caught in the fundraising busywork trap.In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many nonprofit leaders confuse “activity” with “progress,” and how fear, comfort, and overthinking keep your mission stuck in motion but not momentum. You’ll learn how to identify low-ROI tasks, make courageous decisions that drive funding, and replace cluttered calendars with confident action that actually grows your organization. Because the opposite of busy isn’t lazy, it’s focused.Topics:The fundraising busywork trap and how to recognize itWhy working harder doesn’t always mean raising moreThe difference between “activity” and “aligned action”Adam Grant’s concept of cognitive comfort and how it stalls growthWhy procrastination often disguises itself as preparationReal client examples: saying no to low-ROI events and sponsorship decksThe three ingredients of brave leadership: boundaries, focus, and supportWhy coaching and systems prevent burnout and build momentumFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’re done following the same old fundraising playbook, the polite one that keeps your goals small and your growth stuck, this episode is your permission slip to break the rules.In The Rule-Breaker’s Guide to Year-End Fundraising, I share how safe, “board-approved” strategies are quietly capping your potential, and how modern fundraisers are rewriting the rules to build momentum, trust, and record-breaking campaigns. You’ll hear how one of my clients ran two back-to-back campaigns that both exceeded goals by leading with authenticity, urgency, and story, not fear or etiquette. Because the truth is, safe doesn’t scale. It’s time to stop waiting for approval, stop softening your message, and start leading with conviction. Rule breakers don’t just raise more money, they raise more energy, excitement, and impact.Topics:Why playing it safe keeps your campaigns stuck on repeatThe biggest lie in year-end fundraising (and what to do instead)How to release the “parking brake” on your campaigns and gain real tractionWhat modern, momentum-driven fundraising looks likeHow one client ran two campaigns in a row, and hit both goalsWhy innovation looks risky until it works (and then everyone copies it)How to stop fundraising like it’s 2005 and lead with courage insteadFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If you’ve ever hesitated to hit send, make the call, or follow up because you didn’t want to “bug” your donors, this episode is for you.That fear isn’t really about your donors, it’s about you. It’s your ego trying to keep you safe from rejection, discomfort, or embarrassment. But every time you let that fear win, you lose more than a donation. You lose momentum, trust, and connection. In this episode, I share how I coach fundraisers to move from me mode to mission mode. Because when you stop performing and start leading, everything changes. You’ll learn how to reframe rejection, build confidence, and lead with courage instead of apology. Your donors aren’t tired of hearing from you; they’ve just stopped hearing you. Generosity doesn’t happen in silence, it happens because you asked.Topics:The real reason fundraisers fear “bugging” donors (and what it costs your mission)How ego and self-protection masquerade as “strategy”Moving from “me mode” to “mission mode” in your fundraising approachWhy consistency builds donor trust and silence erodes itThe mindset and language shift from apologetic to confident askingFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

GoFundMe launched a new “Nonprofit Pages” feature — automatically creating donation pages for over 1.4 million nonprofits across the U.S. without direct consent -- here's the latest update on the pages being unpublished and de-indexed. Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

GoFundMe launched a new “Nonprofit Pages” feature — automatically creating donation pages for over 1.4 million nonprofits across the U.S. without direct consent.If your organization never set up a GoFundMe campaign, you might still have a live, searchable page collecting donations right now — with funds routed through the PayPal Giving Fund and a 15–45 day delay before the nonprofit ever sees them.In this episode, Christina breaks down:What’s actually happening behind these auto-created pagesWhy this isn’t just a communication misstep — it’s a compliance and consent issueThe potential financial, trust, and risks nonprofits now faceWhy “visibility” doesn’t justify bypassing consent or controlWhat to do immediately if your nonprofit was includedYou’ll also hear Christina’s take on why this move adds unexpected administrative burden for small teams during the busiest fundraising season of the year — and why the only ethical solution is to make this feature opt-in by default.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

What if your next big fundraising win wasn’t about adding more grants, galas, or gimmicks, but about simplifying and believing it could work?In this episode, I’m joined by Kim Wardlow and Penn Street from Aftersight, an incredible organization supporting the blind and low-vision community through accessible media, podcasts, and programs. They share how they went from uncertainty to running a $20K in just 20 days campaign that exceeded its goal, using storytelling, matching gifts, and genuine connection. We talk about how they built confidence, engaged their board, and reimagined fundraising as something fun, creative, and totally possible. Plus, they share how their growing podcast network and the White Cane Project are helping more people than ever. If you’ve ever doubted whether your next campaign could actually take off, this story is proof that it can.Topics:The story behind Aftersight’s “$20K in 20 Days” winHow Kim and Penn overcame fear and doubt in fundraisingWhy podcasting became their tool for accessibility and donor engagementHow they used matching gifts + storytelling to motivate donorsThe importance of accessible technology in fundraising (like Givebutter)How board members became advocates after campaign successWhat’s next: monthly giving and influencer partnerships For a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

GoFundMe recently created more than 1.4 million donation pages for U.S. nonprofits — many without notice or consent.In this episode, Christina Tzavaras Edwards unpacks what this means for your organization, your SEO, and your donor trust. You’ll learn why these pages exist, how to check if your nonprofit has one, and the key pros and cons of keeping, claiming, or removing it.Christina also explains why she’s advising nonprofits who’ve never used GoFundMe before to unpublish until they intentionally opt in — citing compliance, consent, and donor ownership concerns. Plus, she explores how AI tools like ChatGPT are reshaping donor discovery and why it’s more important than ever to control your digital giving experience.You’ll learn:What this mass GoFundMe rollout means for your org’s online givingHow to find out if your nonprofit has a pageThe pros and cons of claiming vs. unpublishingWhy consent, clarity, and control should drive every tech decisionMentioned in this episode: Special thanks to George Weiner, Lauren Atherton, and T. Clay Buck for their insights that helped inform this discussion.Resources mentioned:* Whole Whale GoFundMe Takedown Template: https://nonprofitnewsfeed.com/news/1-4-million-donation-pages-without-permission-created-by-gofundme/ Note: This episode is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available reporting as of October 2025. It does not constitute legal advice or an allegation of wrongdoing.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Getting new donors feels exciting, new names, new gifts, fresh energy. But if you can’t keep them, you’re stuck on the hamster wheel. In this episode, I talk about the retention wall, why most nonprofits struggle to keep donors giving year after year, and how to fix it. We’ll unpack why first-time donors ghost you, what for-profit brands get right about loyalty, and the exact mindset + strategy shifts you need to turn one-time givers into lifelong supporters. If you’ve ever wondered why donors don’t come back, or felt frustrated that your list keeps growing but revenue doesn’t, this is the episode that will change how you think about fundraising forever.Topics:What is the retention wall, and why do most nonprofits hit itWhy donor acquisition without retention is a losing gameThe psychology of why donors don’t give againSimple ways to create loyalty and connection after the first giftHow to measure retention (and what numbers actually matter)Stories and examples of organizations breaking through the wallFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

You don’t need to send more emails. You need to send the right ones. In this episode, I’m breaking down the five email types every nonprofit must use if you want to double, triple, or even 9x your campaign results. These aren’t random updates or long newsletters that no one reads. Each type has a specific role in moving your donors from curious to committed. We’ll talk about why your current email strategy might feel flat, how to stop repeating yourself, and the exact sequence that creates urgency, connection, and momentum. If you’ve ever wondered, “But what do I write next?” this is your roadmap.Topics:Why fewer emails equals fewer donationsThe five types of emails that keep donors engagedHow each email type plays a unique role in the campaign arcWhy story-driven emails outperform newsletters every timeReal examples of campaigns that grew 2x–9x by retooling emailsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

The fear of “bothering” donors has nonprofits sending fewer emails than Sephora sends about mascara. And you know what that means? Fewer emails = fewer donations.In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why silence in your donor’s inbox is way more damaging than showing up with short, story-driven emails. I’ll tell you why Patagonia, Old Navy, and Jimmy John’s can email you daily without you hitting unsubscribe, and why nonprofits should stop hiding behind once-a-quarter newsletters that nobody reads (hello, donor amnesia). This conversation is all about making email fun again and turning it into your #1 fundraising engine. If you’re tired of being ghosted by donors, I’ll show you how to stay top of mind, raise more money, and build genuine relationships… all from your inbox.Topics:Why “fewer emails” is a myth that’s keeping your nonprofit brokeDonor psychology: why silence feels worse than consistent outreachWhat nonprofits can learn from Sephora, Old Navy, and Jimmy John’sHow one org went from $1,600 → $9,000 by shifting their email strategyThe difference between transactional emails (tax receipts) and true connectionWhy good emails build trust while quarterly newsletters build amnesiaHow to create fundraising campaigns that feel like conversationsFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

I had the pleasure of hosting Michael Murphy, Director of Development at Missouri’s National Veterans Memorial, and one of my Purpose & Profit Club® members. Michael’s story is proof that you don’t need decades of fundraising experience to see major wins with email. In fact, in his very first nonprofit role, he took one of my frameworks, Easy Emails For Impact™, and turned a $1,900 campaign into a $9,000 campaign. We talk about what it means to ditch the “dry C-suite style” newsletters, why personal, story-driven emails outperform every time, and how confidence grows when you let go of perfection and just hit send. Michael also shares how he’s building monthly giving campaigns, blending direct mail with digital, and learning to embrace new tools without losing sight of his mission: honoring veterans across generations.Topics:How shifting from “C-suite style” newsletters to story-driven emails multiplied resultsWhy Michael’s first attempts at email felt sterile and overwhelming — and what changedHow one campaign using story-driven emails jumped from $1,900 to $9,000The power of multiple donation levels and donor-friendly options Why replies to your emails matter as much as donationsUsing volunteers’ voices to write high-performing emailsHow email + direct mail is “peanut butter and jelly” for fundraisingBuilding a sustainable monthly giving program that feels manageableFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Nonprofit leaders love to default to newsletters - long, clunky, “Fall Update”-style emails stuffed with program blurbs, raffle announcements, and event reminders. But newsletters don’t raise money. In fact, they train donors to skim, ignore, or unsubscribe. In this episode, I break down why newsletters flop, what you should be sending instead, and how shifting to single-topic, story-driven campaigns can multiply your revenue without adding more work. You’ll learn how to replace the newsletter grind with an email system that actually sparks giving, builds donor trust, and scales with you.Topics:Why traditional newsletters train donors to tune you outThe psychology of distraction and why donors need focus, not info dumpsStory-driven, single-topic emails that lead to action (instead of updates no one reads)How to send more emails without donor fatigueThe role of email as a scalable, foundational fundraising engineA step-by-step alternative to newsletters: campaign-style email sequencesFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Most nonprofits underestimate the quiet powerhouse sitting right in front of them: email. In this episode, I’m sharing 10 proven strategies to transform your inbox into your most reliable fundraising engine. From reactivating lapsed donors to priming your biggest asks, I’ll walk you through the data-backed reasons email outperforms social and direct mail, and how small tweaks in consistency, intimacy, and urgency can create donations on demand. Whether you’re a solo fundraiser or leading a large team, these secrets will help you stop leaving money on the table and start treating email like the main course—not the side dish.Topics:The “donations on demand” effect—and how to tap it fastWhy loyalty + retention are built in the inbox, not on InstagramHow to scale intimacy so 2,000 people feel like you just called them personallyWinning back lapsed donors with re-engagement emails that run on autopilotUsing email data as your GPS for bigger campaignsHow to create the giving reflex—training donors to open, expect, and actHow email primes major donor conversations and reduces cold call pressureWhy urgency works in inboxes and flops on socialAnd why email is still the cheapest, highest-impact digital fundraising engine you’ll ever haveFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Most nonprofit leaders play it too safe. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why a little “healthy delusion™” might be the missing ingredient in your fundraising and leadership success. You’ll learn why being overly realistic can quietly cap your revenue potential, and how the right dose of ambitious, slightly unreasonable belief in your vision can get you into rooms, conversations, and opportunities you didn’t think were possible. This isn’t about ignoring reality. It’s about expanding it.Topics:Defining “healthy delusion™”: What it means and why it works for nonprofit leadersBreaking free from playing small: How being “too realistic” keeps you in the same lane year after yearWhy wait for evidence before acting slows your growthReal client wins sparked by leaning into healthy delusionHow to test bigger asks, expand your network, and approach opportunities without self-disqualifyingFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Something is missing in your recipe for success. Not a tool. Not a strategy. But something deeper: your inner grit. This isn’t about hustling harder or pushing yourself until you burn out. It’s about the strength you draw on when you’re tired, when the campaign feels heavy, when the grant report is due, and when your to-do list is longer than your capacity. In this episode, I’m sharing why grit matters just as much as skill in fundraising, the mindset shifts that make it sustainable, and how to build your own reserve of inner strength so you can lead with clarity, joy, and resilience, even when the work gets hard. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on fumes or questioning if you’ve got what it takes, this episode will remind you: you do. You just need to reconnect with it.Topics:Why inner grit is the missing ingredient in many nonprofit leaders’ successHow grit differs from hustle culture (and why that matters)Practical ways to build mental and emotional resilienceThe connection between grit and long-term fundraising successSigns you’re running low on grit (and what to do about it)Why skill without grit leads to stalled progressHow to rally yourself when you’re tired, overwhelmed, or uninspiredFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

This episode is for the nonprofit leader doing “all the right things” (you’ve got peer fundraisers, events, email blasts, major donor asks) but you're still not hitting your campaign goals. Sound familiar? It’s not your fault. It’s your foundation.I recorded this episode fresh off the launch of The Purpose and Profit Club®, and after talking to so many of you, I noticed the same trap over and over: layering modern tactics on top of weak campaigns. If your messaging isn’t emotionally resonant, your campaign lacks urgency, or your structure is shaky, no amount of frosting will save it. In this episode, I break down why your campaign might feel like a “collapsed cake,” what a high-converting campaign looks like, and how my SPRINT Method™ helps you build a strategy that actually works (without the burnout or overwhelm). If you're tired of working harder for diminishing returns, this is the clarity you need.Topics:Why visibility alone doesn’t drive conversionWhat weak campaigns actually look and feel likeThe “collapsed cake” metaphor and what it means for fundraisersThe difference between emotion vs. passivity in donor messagingWhy urgency and relevance matter more than volumeTactics that don’t work without a strong foundationWhy layering on social media, peer fundraising, or ads won’t fix poor structureThe SPRINT Method™: what it is and who it’s forFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Joey Goone is back, and I couldn’t be more excited to have him return to the podcast. If you’ve ever felt like your fundraising events are starting to blend together, or you’re craving something more intentional, joyful, and authentic, this conversation is your permission slip to shake things up.Joey is the President of Utopia Experience, and honestly, he brings so much heart to the events space. He’s not here for stuffy ballrooms or robotic run-of-shows. He’s here to help nonprofits lead with humanity, center their mission, and create events that people feel long after they leave. We talk about everything from ditching the performance pressure in storytelling to why A/V isn’t just a tech checklist, it’s a storytelling tool. This episode is full of lightbulb moments and reminders that joy and profit are not mutually exclusive. Whether you're a seasoned ED or planning your very first gala, Joey will leave you inspired to lead with more heart, more clarity, and way more impact.Topics:Why the energy and intention behind events matter more than perfectionHow to avoid transactional storytelling and make your audience feelThe difference between entertainment and impact—and how to do bothWhat it means to design experiences with dignity and strengthHow Joey's team creates nonprofit events that are both joyful and profitableThe ripple effect of honoring people, not just logisticsBuilding community through connection—not performanceFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

I’m back from a month in Greece, sun-soaked, inspired, and wildly energized, and there’s one theme that keeps showing up in every single conversation I’ve had since: 10 minutes can change everything.In this episode, I’m sharing the power of micro-bravery. Not hypotheticals, but real stories. A client who made one 10-minute thank-you call and created a deeper connection than she imagined. Another who picked up the phone and walked away with a six-figure intro. I’ll even tell you how a 10-minute YouTube workout changed my whole day. This is about momentum over perfection. Courage over rumination. Action over spinning. You don’t need the perfect deck, a full hour, or a polished strategy. You need 10 minutes and a decision to move. Let’s talk about how to find those moments and what can happen when you do.Topics:What The 10-Minute Ask actually is—and how to use it todayHow coaching and community make these 10-minute wins multiplyWhy this isn’t just about productivity—it’s about possibilityReal examples of clients who unlocked major donor relationships with one short callWhat rumination is costing your missionThe difference between waiting for confidence vs. building itHow to start embedding daily “brave reps” into your workflowFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Most nonprofits wait for permission: a grant panel, a sponsor, an award to tell them they’re the best. This episode flips that script. Today, I share why it’s time to claim your brilliance, boldly articulate what makes you exceptional, and anchor your authority before anyone else does. From a five-star Airbnb in Greece to awkward sponsor meetings where leaders freeze, this conversation unpacks the mindset shifts and tactical moves that help you own your impact. Because you don’t need a medal to stand out, you need the courage to plant your flag.Topics:Why so many nonprofits struggle to claim their brilliance (and how to break the cycle)The power of repetition and why your message needs to be heard 17 timesThe difference between bragging and anchoring your authorityReal-life examples: Airbnb reviews, sponsor meetings, and what clarity really sounds likePractical ideas for showcasing your impact everywhere—pitch decks, websites, thank you notes, and beyondHow to reframe your mindset from “Who am I to say this?” to “Who am I not to?”For a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here.Resources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Everyone’s chasing the wrong spotlight—and in this episode, I explain why. You think you need a Grammy winner to post your fundraiser, but what you actually need is a solid campaign and a Social Street Team® to spread it. I share real stories of big-name flops, what gets campaigns to convert (hint: it’s not fame), and how to build a movement of aligned, trusted messengers who drive results. If you’re tired of waiting for someone famous to save your fundraiser, it’s time to flip the script and start thinking like a strategist. Let’s talk about how to ditch the vanity metrics and lead with clarity, trust, and a campaign that scales.Topics:Why celebrity endorsements rarely translate into real impactThe myth of visibility = valueWhat makes a campaign “irresistible” and share-worthyHow to build and activate a high-impact Social Street Team®Real examples of both failed celebrity posts and micro-influencer winsShifting from vanity metrics to sustainable fundraising strategyHow to align your board and leadership with modern donor behaviorFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

What if your birthday could change lives?In this episode, I sit down with Kayla Houchin, founder of Sonder Bakehouse, a passionate fundraiser, and a longtime advocate for Charity: Water. Kayla shares how a book and a single birthday campaign turned into over $100,000 raised (and counting!) to bring clean water to communities worldwide. We talk about the power of starting small, how joy and creativity fuel sustainability in fundraising, and why showing up with purpose can inspire a whole town to rally behind your mission. From auctioning cakes to hosting galas, Kayla proves that you don’t need to be a full-time nonprofit pro to make a massive impact—you just need clarity, consistency, and a little courage to ask. Whether you’re planning your first peer-to-peer campaign or dreaming of a million-dollar impact, Kayla’s story will reignite your belief in grassroots fundraising and remind you why the why matters most.Topics:Kayla shares how reading a book led her to start her first birthday fundraiser for Charity: WaterKayla explains how she raised over $100K—one cake (and birthday) at a timeHow tapping into joy fuels both donor enthusiasmInside Kayla’s first gala with Scott Harrison from Charity: WaterPowerful stories from the front lines of grassroots givingHow staying connected to purpose helps you push past discomfort and keep goingFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

What if your next major hire isn’t a person, but a system?In this episode, I pull back the curtain on the “NextGen Fundraising Engine”, a proven campaign system that replaces the need for a marketing coordinator, development associate, and monthly giving manager. If you’re stuck in a cycle of burnout, chasing one-off donations, or hiring your way out of a revenue gap, this episode is your permission slip to do it differently. You’ll learn why the smartest nonprofits are stealing proven growth tactics from e-commerce brands, and how to streamline your fundraising, storytelling, and donor retention strategies without bloating your payroll. This isn’t hustle culture. This is what it looks like to fundraise smarter.Topics:Why hiring more staff isn’t the answer (and what to build instead)The difference between a capacity issue and a clarity issueHow e-commerce strategies are helping nonprofits grow fasterThe three essential fundraising functions most orgs try to hire for—and how to replace them with one systemViral partnerships & the Social Street Team® MethodMonthly donor engines that work (without outsourcing)For a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

Feeling stuck at $200K? Plateaued at $500K? Are you wondering why you can’t push past $1M even when your mission is solid and your team is working nonstop? In this episode, I explain why nonprofit revenue stalls — and more importantly, how to move beyond it. From outdated donor funnels to board bottlenecks, this episode offers a smarter system for sustained growth. I walk you through real revenue tiers, key mistakes organizations make at each level, and what to do instead. If you're ready to stop treading water and start building a pipeline that scales, this is for you.Topics:The three most common growth ceilings in nonprofit fundraising (and what causes them)Why having “more donors” isn’t always the answerThe real difference between organizations that scale and the ones that stay stuckA smarter way to upgrade your donor journey (without chasing every social media trend)How to stop letting the board be the bottleneckWhat to do when your lead funnel is cold, your campaign fell flat, or your big funder says noFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links

If your fundraising strategy still runs on 2010 logic, this is your wake-up call. In this episode, I break down the concept of NextGen Fundraising—not just for Gen Z, but for every generation of donor who now expects fast, friction-free, modern giving experiences. I share why traditional tactics are burning you out, why your board doesn’t need another gala, and how to cut the clutter and focus on what actually works. Get ready for mindset shifts, strategy overhauls, and some tough love on why clinging to the past is costing you funding. If your nonprofit is still waiting on permission, outdated systems, or “someday” grants—this one’s for you.Topics:What “NextGen Fundraising” really meansWhy traditional fundraising tactics are failing — and how donor habits have shifted fasterThe outdated “fundraising OS” most orgs are still usingThe myth of long cultivation cyclesWhy chasing new donors while losing your current ones is the ultimate leaky bucketWhat nonprofit leaders can learn from Shopify and AmazonHow to use Social Street Team® to expand reachWhy being grant-dependent is a risk, not a strategy — and what to do right now if you’ve lost a major funder's supportReal wins from real nonprofitsWhy holding out for board meetings or retreats is costing you more than you realizeFor a full list of links and resources mentioned in this episode, click here.Bloomerang is the complete donor, volunteer, and fundraising management solution that helps thousands of nonprofits deliver a better giving experience and create sustainable, thriving organizations. Combining robust, easy-to-use technology with people-powered support and training, Bloomerang empowers nonprofits to work efficiently, improve supporter relationships, and grow their donor and volunteer bases. Learn more here. register here - splendidcourses.com/emailResources:Easy Emails For Impact™: The $5K+ Fundraising Campaign SystemPurpose & Profit Club® Fundraising + Marketing Accelerator   The SPRINT Method™: Your shortcut to 10K fundraisers Instagram, LinkedIn, website , weekly newsletter  [FREE] The Brave Fundraiser’s Guide: Stop getting ignored. Start raising more. May contain affiliate links