Abundant Vision Fundraising Podcast

Early in his career, a colleague looked at Tom Dauber's resume and said: "I guess you won't be able to scare people with the threat of hell anymore, will you?" Tom didn't have a response. He just absorbed it.Years later, he found the words he wished he'd had -- in a 60-page book by a Catholic priest named Henri Nouwen. In this episode, Tom walks through the ideas in A Spirituality of Fundraising that reframe the ask entirely. Whether or not faith is your framework, Nouwen's core argument applies: fundraising is the opposite of begging, your anxiety is your biggest obstacle, and the fundraiser who walks in needing the gift has already lost the room.This one is for any fundraiser who has ever felt embarrassed to ask.Looking for fundraising coaching? Check out www.abundantvision.netBuy Nouwen's Fundraising Classic Here:  https://www.amazon.com/Spirituality-Fundraising-Henri-Nouwen/dp/0835810445/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NJOO4TQMKEOJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hejcFfRXDXR3448Y8xHqqt8DhXxj8GRkoiGOBd_qHzZHo5w_-poNrQiw-pTmiZSYZLC3YovvbhreEKuaZsHdJmG1V94ttTaG3dY-Ii1AiujbieZ0pc18xKZveHlTto0GFqknqBtHZDq37vaQGchiC9DRrwHLLsJJhOOLD-oLZQOM93r0Hcy3ZT1UJwJ99iXGlCZH5R6E4BCkBTgxX7rjMj48pOUPnVlylRj6kSfe6o0.w_OGtHa3tdE6Zp7juEPWDjIq5uKTXe6B7qlMkwWizco&dib_tag=se&keywords=a+spirituality+of+fundraising&qid=1777665208&sprefix=a+spiritu%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1

A friend texted Tom asking how to raise money for her kid's lacrosse team. His answer? The same three questions he's used for 30 years — from asking his Sunday school teacher for a $75 check at age 16 to running major gift campaigns at universities and health systems. In this episode, Tom breaks down the framework that scales from youth sports fundraising all the way to seven-figure campaigns, and explains why the single biggest mistake most fundraisers make is asking everyone instead of asking someone.Looking for fundraising coaching? Check out www.abundantvision.net

In the final part of my conversation with Jason Lewis, we move from diagnosis to direction.If fundraising has drifted toward systems, scale, and transactional thinking, what does it look like to recover something more human?Jason argues that the answer is not better technology or smarter dashboards. It is proximity. It is presence. It is getting fundraisers back in front of donors and letting real relationships shape the work.In this episode we explore: Why fundraising may have a supervision problem, not a fundraiser problem How leadership culture shapes donor experience The importance of increasing proximity and real conversation Why young fundraisers should prioritize experience over optimization What it means to operate by different rules, like Dorothy stepping into OzIf you are leading a team, entering the profession, or questioning where fundraising is headed, this episode offers both clarity and encouragement.Find Jason's Substack, The Butterfly Effect Here:  https://responsive.substack.com/Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In Part 3 of my conversation with Jason Lewis, we move into uncomfortable territory.If fundraising feels transactional, the issue may not just be external systems. It may also be how we use data, how we scale, and how we supervise fundraisers inside our organizations.Jason challenges the assumptions behind: Wealth screening and hidden data CRM systems and personalization The pressure to grow donor files endlessly The idea that more scale equals more impactWe also discuss what he calls the “supervisor problem” and how internal expectations can mirror the same distortions donors experience on the outside.This episode invites leaders and major gift officers to examine whether the systems meant to help us are quietly shaping us into something we never intended to become.Find Jason's Substack, The Butterfly Effect here: https://responsive.substack.com/Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In Part 2 of my conversation with Jason Lewis, we move from defining gift theory to examining what may be distorting modern fundraising.If fundraising often feels transactional, there may be a reason. Jason unpacks how market thinking, grant structures, and subtle power dynamics shape the way organizations approach donors. What happens when generosity begins to resemble a purchase? What happens when philanthropy starts to operate like retail?In this episode we explore: How sales logic influences donor relationships The impact of grant-driven and bureaucratic systems Why hierarchy can replace mutuality A revealing feasibility study story that exposes how donors experience these distortionsIf you have ever sensed that something feels misaligned in the way fundraising operates, this episode will help you articulate why.Find Jason's Substack, The Butterfly Effect here: https://responsive.substack.com/Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

Most fundraisers have never heard the term “gift theory.” Yet it may explain many of the frustrations we experience in our work.In this conversation, Jason Lewis and I explore a foundational question: what actually makes a gift different from a sale or a tax?Jason introduces the concept of “modes of exchange” and explains how societies have historically organized themselves around three different ways of relating: gift, market, and coercion. We examine how modern fundraising may have borrowed too heavily from sales and bureaucratic models, and why that matters for donor retention, trust, and long-term relationships.If you have ever felt that fundraising can become transactional, pressured, or overly mechanical, this episode will help you step back and reconsider the moral architecture behind what we do.Topics we cover:              -Jason’s fundraising origin story       -What gift theory is and where it comes from       -Gift mode vs sales mode vs coercive mode       -Why fundraising often feels transactional       -Whether we are using the wrong toolbox in our professionThis episode sets the foundation for a deeper exploration of generosity, responsibility, and the true nature of the gift.Find Jason's Substack, The Butterfly Effect here: https://responsive.substack.com/Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

This bonus episode features the full Q&A from the Brady Ware webinar. Thomas answers practical questions about overcoming fear, stretching vision responsibly, building donor confidence, and creating the structures that keep fundraising focused and sustainable. This final installment brings together the most actionable insights from the entire series. Looking for fundraising coaching? Check out www.abundantvision.net Looking for accounting or advisory services? Visit bradyware.com

In Part Three of the Brady Ware training, Thomas focuses on the structures and weekly habits that drive major gift momentum. You will learn a simple rhythm for donor engagement, a practical meeting script that centers purpose, and a framework for aligning your time, message, and goals. Whether you lead a small shop or a large team, these disciplines help create steadiness, clarity, and long-term growth. Looking for fundraising coaching? Check out www.abundantvision.net Looking for accounting or advisory services? Visit bradyware.com

Part Two continues the Brady Ware webinar series with a deep dive into leadership vision and the emotional steadiness required for transformational philanthropy. Thomas walks through why donors respond to clarity, why vague vision creates doubt, and how leaders can cast a compelling future that donors want to join. The story of two university deans illustrates the difference between shrinking an opportunity and rising to it. Looking for fundraising coaching? Check out www.abundantvision.net Looking for accounting or advisory services? Visit bradyware.com

In Part One of this special three-part training, Thomas shares the opening portion of a webinar he delivered for Brady Ware’s nonprofit division. This session explores how personal history, family money messages, and early experiences with asking quietly shape the way fundraisers show up with donors. Thomas offers practical tools for grounding yourself in mission, understanding the roots of fear, and beginning the shift toward confidence and clarity in your solicitations. Looking for fundraising coaching? Check out www.abundantvision.net Looking for accounting or advisory services? Visit bradyware.com

December has a way of messing with a fundraiser’s head.If you hit your goal, there is relief. If you came up short, it can feel like the year somehow failed. In this end of year episode, Tom Dauber reframes what a truly positive year-end looks like and why December does not define your worth as a fundraiser.This episode is not about last-minute tactics or magical December hacks. It is about finishing the calendar year with integrity, clarity, and professionalism. Tom walks through how to redefine winning at year end, why gratitude must be treated as a discipline rather than an afterthought, and how desperation quietly undermines trust with donors.You will also hear practical guidance on closing loops, cleaning up CRM data, scheduling January follow-ups before exhaustion sets in, and doing an honest post-mortem that helps you grow as a leader rather than beat yourself up.Most of all, this episode reconnects fundraising to first principles. Stewardship is not about revenue. It is about trust. And trust compounds over time.If you want to close the year steady instead of frantic, and step into the new year grounded rather than desperate, this episode is for you.Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

After decades in fundraising, Joe Bull has seen nearly everything—from million-dollar surprises to the conversations that quietly define a donor’s legacy. In this episode, he joins Tom Dauber to share the stories, near-misses, and timeless lessons that shaped his approach to planned giving and donor relationships that last a lifetime.In this conversation, Joe and Tom discuss: How one sponsorship pitch turned into an eight-figure gift—and a career-defining lesson in silence The stewardship visit that safeguarded an $11 million estate gift Why fundraisers lose legacy donors simply by forgetting about them How to spot hidden wealth and reframe your assumptions about “who gives” The emotional power of connecting donors directly to the impact they’ve created What awkward mistakes (including a very ill-timed voicemail) can teach you about accountability How patience and gratitude form the foundation of every successful planned giving relationshipFor anyone serious about legacy fundraising, this episode distills forty years of experience into stories that remind us why planned giving is both an art and a calling.Website: philanthropyadvisorycouncil.com • Email: [email protected] for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

Economic downturns test every fundraiser’s patience and creativity—but Joe Bull has seen enough recessions to know that generosity doesn’t disappear, it just shifts form. In this conversation, Joe and Tom Dauber unpack how planned giving holds steady when annual and major gifts tighten, and what leaders can do now to build resilience before the next market slide.In this episode, Joe shares: Why donor motivation doesn’t vanish in bad economies—it only changes timing and form How planned giving bridges short-term uncertainty with long-term commitment Data from researcher Russell James showing why nonprofits that accept non-cash assets raise significantly more Lessons from Joe’s own Carnegie Mellon analysis revealing estate gifts often triple lifetime giving Practical ways to start a planned giving program with almost no new budget The myth that “planned giving is only for the wealthy” and what every fundraiser should actually know Why patience, stewardship, and curiosity build the kind of donor relationships that survive any recessionIf you’ve ever wondered how to stabilize fundraising when the markets stumble, this episode will leave you with perspective, proof, and a few next steps you can take tomorrow.Website: philanthropyadvisorycouncil.com • Email: [email protected] for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

Joe Bull never set out to become one of the most respected voices in planned giving. Trained in law and athletic administration, he thought he’d spend his career on the sidelines of college sports—not in development offices. One unplanned job at Duke University changed everything, launching a forty-year journey through higher ed, national nonprofits, and the evolution of modern fundraising.In this episode, Joe talks with host Tom Dauber about: How an accidental entry into Duke’s planned giving office became the start of a lifelong vocation Lessons from early mentors and the value of being “in the right place at the right time” The growing professionalism of planned giving—from two-person shops to major enterprise teams Transitioning from Duke to NC State to Ohio State and leading his first campaign Moving from higher education to The Nature Conservancy just before the 2008 financial crash Why networking and timing shape more careers than strategy ever will The origin of “fractional planned giving” work and why many nonprofits need it todayThis conversation offers a rare look at how one unplanned turn can define a lifetime of impact.Website: philanthropyadvisorycouncil.com • Email: [email protected] for fundraising coaching and free fundraising resources?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

A pop-culture detour with a purpose: Tom breaks down how Netflix’s Wednesday (Season 2) portrays fundraising—manipulative galas, predatory leaders, “mind-control” asks—and contrasts it with ethical, mission-centered practice. If your board’s first idea is “throw a gala,” this one’s for you.In this episode Why TV gets fundraising wrong (manipulation, greed, event-centric thinking) What ethical fundraising actually looks like: gratitude, consent, mission & impact The real problems with events and “a question to everybody is a question to nobody” Better paths than grants-only or cookie/candy sales—and why individualized asks winLooking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this final segment of Tom’s conversation with Phil Washburn, President and CEO of the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio, the focus turns squarely to the inner game of fundraising, the power of relationships, and what it takes to lead a mission-focused organization through major campaigns and big transitions.Phil shares honestly about his own journey from nervous asker to more confident, conversational fundraiser, and how deep donor trust, clear vision, and strong board partnership all work together to fuel impact.In this episode, we cover:How Phil’s “baptism by fire” into fundraising shaped his relational approach with donorsWhy honest, unvarnished conversations about financial challenges actually deepen donor trustMoving from transactional pitches to conversational, collaborative askingPractical question prompts Phil uses to understand what truly resonates with donors before making the askA powerful “Unity Build” story that brought diverse partners together around a shared community goalHow a clear sense of purpose sustains you through the hard and exhausting seasons of nonprofit workWhy the CEO–board relationship can make or break an organizationWhat a healthy, mission-centered board looks like in practiceHow Phil invests in individual relationships with board members to strengthen governance and alignmentAn inside look at the Furniture Bank’s capital campaign, new warehouse, expanded woodshop, and growing thrift enterprise modelHow social enterprise and thrift stores are helping fuel mission, divert waste from landfills, and stabilize revenueLooking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom continues his conversation with Phil Washburn, President and CEO of the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio and a black belt in Lean Six Sigma. Phil pulls back the curtain on how process improvement tools, ownership culture, and clear values can transform the way any nonprofit operates, serves clients, and supports fundraising.You do not have to be a data geek or a manufacturing nerd to benefit from this one. If you have ever thought, "We are so busy, but are we actually working efficiently," this conversation is for you.In this episode, we cover: What Lean Six Sigma actually is and why it belongs in nonprofit work, not just factories How Phil used Lean tools to serve more families without simply trying to raise more money Common inefficiencies nonprofits fall into when staff wear too many hats and never stop to reexamine processes A practical example of eliminating waste through partnership, using furniture donations as a case study How the Furniture Bank helps families move from bare floors to dignified, furnished homes Why furniture and basic home goods are a critical part of a family’s stability and recovery How to start thinking about process improvement if you are a CEO or executive director who has never touched Lean before Why culture and values matter for efficiency, especially the value of excellence A simple “boxes of paper” experiment Phil used to reveal low ownership culture and how leaders can raise expectations How to build a culture where staff at every level feel responsible for naming problems and improving systemsLooking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom sits down with his longtime friend and fellow Bowling Green alum, Phil Washburn, President and CEO of the Furniture Bank of Central Ohio. Phil shares honestly about what it looks like to lead an entire organization while still staying personally engaged with donors and major gifts work.Whether you are a frontline fundraiser or in senior leadership, this conversation will help you think more clearly about boundaries, priorities, and what a healthy partnership between a CEO and development team can look like in any nonprofit setting.In this episode, we cover:How Phil thinks about “free time” as a CEO and what healthy work–life boundaries actually look likeWhy modeling good work–life balance for your team matters as much as talking about itPhil’s nonprofit origin story and how he grew from “perfect number two” into an effective CEOThe key differences between a strong major gift officer and a strong CEO, and where the roles overlapHow a CEO’s broader view of the organization can sharpen donor strategy and cultivationWhat a healthy, day to day partnership between a CEO and Director of Development looks likeHow Phil practically protects 20–25% of his week for fundraising, including personal calls to mid and major donorsThe growing pressure on social service organizations as more nonprofits compete for limited fundingHow changes in public funding are impacting local human service agencies and why collaboration is becoming essentialLooking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

Too many fundraising leaders fall into the trap of focusing on what’s missing—trying to “fund the gap” instead of casting a bold vision for what’s possible. In this solo episode, Thomas Dauber challenges nonprofit professionals to shift their mindset from scarcity to abundance. He explains why donors are more inspired by dreams than deficits, and how articulating a compelling future vision—not just this year’s shortfall—can unlock greater generosity.Thomas unpacks what it means to dream responsibly: planning strategically, understanding true costs, involving your CFO and board, and building a roadmap donors can believe in. Whether you're a CEO, major gift officer, or faith-based ministry leader raising your own support, this episode will equip you to ask bigger, inspire more deeply, and lead with clarity.Takeaways Include: Why funding a dream is more motivating than filling a budget gap How to answer “How much do you need?” in a visionary, donor-centric way What steps you must take to make your dream fundable How to involve your board and financial team in building a scalable growth plan A challenge to rethink individualized fundraising strategies in favor of collective visionIf you’re ready to grow beyond your current limits and raise more with confidence, this one’s for you.Subscribe, share, and send this to a fellow leader who’s dreaming big.

In part two of our conversation, Brianna Quinn flips the script: she talks about what hiring managers get wrong, how organizations unintentionally repel great candidates, and what both sides can do to create a better process. From pay transparency to interview equity, this is a practical guide for anyone building a team—or considering their next move.

In this candid conversation, Brianna Quinn, VP of Development at Let’s Get Ready, shares what it was like to conduct a public job search after leaving a role that wasn’t the right fit. She talks about how to spot red flags in job descriptions, how she thought about values alignment, and the challenges of vetting organizational culture from the outside. Whether you're hiring or job hunting, Brianna’s insights are refreshingly honest and deeply practical.

In this episode of the Abundant Vision Fundraising Podcast, Tom Dauber breaks down the hidden costs of underinvesting in fundraising staff—and why small, understaffed teams often struggle to unlock their full revenue potential. He explores how specialization (rather than forcing generalists to do everything) leads to healthier donor relationships, less staff burnout, and greater returns. From team structure to portfolio math, this episode offers compelling data, real-life stories, and practical scripting to help you persuade your board or CEO to scale your fundraising team the right way—before it’s too late.

Many nonprofit leaders hesitate to invest in additional fundraising staff—often out of a scarcity mindset. But what if that hesitation is actually costing your organization the opportunity to grow?In this episode of the Abundant Vision Fundraising Podcast, Tom Dauber breaks down how to make the case for hiring fundraisers, development officers, and donor-facing staff. Whether you're a CEO, CDO, or senior development leader, you'll learn: Why fundraisers are revenue generators, not cost centers How under-investment leads to missed major gift opportunities What board members and CFOs often misunderstand about fundraising ROI Why staff burnout and turnover erode donor trust How to scale impact by scaling supportIf you're trying to grow your mission, you can't afford to under-resource your fundraising team. Let’s talk about how to change the conversation.

Do fundraisers bring their own money trauma to donor conversations? Absolutely—and Courtney offers powerful advice for confronting your own beliefs about money before asking someone else for theirs. From missionaries with $100 to major gift officers asking for $25,000, this episode explores how our past shapes our comfort with fundraising. Learn how fundraisers can shift from imposter syndrome to service, and what high-net-worth individuals really want in a meaningful donor relationship.Key Themes: How childhood and early career experiences shape fundraisers’ scripts What wealthy donors hate about vague or premature asks Serving vs. soliciting: the mindset shift that builds trust How to ask better questions and challenge with care

In this episode, Courtney shares eye-opening stories of how unresolved trauma and attachment to wealth can block generosity—even for those who deeply want to give. Tom and Courtney unpack how fundraisers can show up with empathy, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge donors based on their stated values. Plus, Courtney explains how giving can be an act of spiritual freedom and how fundraisers can help donors live more fully into their purpose.Key Themes: Why wealth can make people feel isolated and judged The importance of holding space, not pushing an ask Fundraisers as values-based coaches, not salespeople One millionaire’s transformation from fear to generosity

Courtney Markley, founder of the Center for Financial Discipleship, shares her journey from bridal fashion designer to financial counselor. She and Tom discuss how wealth doesn’t solve money-related anxiety and how our past—especially childhood trauma—can deeply influence generosity. This episode explores the surprising truth that even high-net-worth individuals often struggle to talk about money, revealing how fundraisers can become safe, nonjudgmental conversation partners.Key Themes: Courtney’s personal financial transformation Why math isn’t enough: money behaviors vs. financial literacy The deep emotional and spiritual pitfalls of wealth How major gift officers unintentionally become confidants

In this episode Tom discusses how organizations dependent on federal funding can prepare themselves to find private support.

In this episode, David Chambliss gets into the part of fundraising most people secretly dread: actually asking for the gift, living with the number you chose, and staying present when donor conversations get weird, emotional, or way too personal.David and Tom unpack how to frame solicitations as invitations to invest in impact, not desperate cash grabs, and why under-asking can be more disrespectful than naming a bold, well-reasoned number. David shares the story of an early-career ask that was accepted so quickly the donor immediately asked whether he should have been asked for more, and what that taught him about preparation, capacity, and timing.They also explore why the best cultivation you will ever do is excellent stewardship of past gifts. From a last-minute scholarship recipient surprise that left a campaign committee in tears, to donors meeting the actual “end product” of their giving, you see practical ways to make impact concrete in any size shop, without a big events budget.Finally, David talks candidly about the human side of this work: donors oversharing, awkward living room moments, being pulled into family drama, and learning to respond with empathy without losing your professional boundaries.You will hear practical takeaways that apply whether you are at a flagship university or a three-person nonprofit: How to reframe “asking for money” into inviting investment in a specific impact. A smarter way to size your ask so you do not unintentionally lowball a committed donor. The role of timing and patience in major gifts, and why some prospects only convert years later. Why great stewardship is your most powerful cultivation strategy for the next gift. Simple, replicable ways to put donors in front of real lives changed, even in small organizations. How to stay grounded when donors overshare, vent, or test your boundaries in awkward conversations. What it looks like to be fully human with donors while still representing your organization well.If you have ever walked out of a solicitation replaying every word or wished you had handled an awkward donor moment differently, this episode will feel uncomfortably familiar and strangely encouraging.Looking for Fundraising Coaching and Counsel?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, David Chambliss pulls back the curtain on the messy, very human side of major gifts: the things you wish you could take back, the political landmines in donor conversations, and the behind-the-scenes work it takes to turn a surprise inquiry into a transformational gift.Whether you’re at a tiny nonprofit or a big institution, David’s stories translate directly to your world: how you brief your leaders, how you manage your own mouth in the living room, and how you rally a team around a donor’s vision so the gift actually happens.David and Tom dig into practical lessons that apply in any shop, including: Do-overs & mulligans: Why “I wish I’d prepped them better” is a universal fundraiser regret, and how to properly brief your CEO, dean, or ED before donor meetings. Staying out of donor politics: How to be warm and real without oversharing, taking sides, or agreeing with things you shouldn’t as a representative of your organization. When the dream call actually comes: What really happens after a big unexpected inquiry, and why follow-through, coordination, and clarity of vision matter more than the initial phone pickup. Team-based fundraising: How faculty, program staff, and leadership each played a critical role in turning one family’s passion for dyslexia into a major academy and research center. Real cultivation that works anywhere: Why the most powerful cultivation move is still putting donors in front of the people whose lives are changed by your mission, not just your staff and experts.If you’ve ever walked out of a donor meeting replaying what you said, or dreamed of that one call that could change everything for your organization, this conversation will feel uncomfortably familiar in the best way.Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom continues his conversation with David Chambliss, Associate Dean for Development at Vanderbilt University, and gets practical about something every shop is wrestling with: how to structure work so people stay, perform, and grow. Even though David sits in a large university campaign, the principles he shares apply whether you are a one-person development office or leading a small team in a local nonprofit.Tom and David talk through what hybrid work looks like when it is built on trust, clear expectations, and real metrics instead of chair time. They explore how to stay closely connected to internal partners, even when you are not on site every day, and why intentional communication matters more than proximity. David also shares the career advice he wishes he had heard earlier: be patient with your timeline and learn to advocate for yourself.In this conversation, you will learn: How to think about hybrid or remote work in a way that still supports strong fundraising results Simple ways to stay in sync with program staff, faculty, or leadership when you are not in the same building Why tracking outreach and activity matters more than tracking office hours How flexible work arrangements can become a powerful retention tool for fundraisers What small organizations can copy from Vanderbilt’s approach to growth, promotion, and talent development Practical career advice for fundraisers who want to grow without burning out or constantly job-hoppingLooking for Fundraising Coaching?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom sits down with David Chambliss, Associate Dean for Development and Executive Director for Strategic Initiatives at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College of Education and Human Development, to talk about what it really takes to build and run a modern higher ed campaign at scale.David shares what life and work look like at Vanderbilt in Nashville, including how he uses campus life and events as part of a thoughtful engagement strategy with prospects and donors.From there, the conversation dives into the engine behind Vanderbilt’s “Dare to Grow” campaign and what fundraisers can learn from it: What it actually means to serve as the chief development officer for a college inside a major university campaign How Vanderbilt structured its $3.2 billion “Dare to Grow” campaign and why they believe they can surpass that goal The benchmarking process they used, comparing staff size, portfolio load, and revenue with peer institutions Why leadership committed to hiring roughly 35 new frontline fundraisers and 70 support staff in only three years How investing in stewardship, operations, and talent management builds the capacity to raise more, not just work harderDavid also traces the career path that prepared him to think at campaign scale: Growing up in Fairborn, Ohio as a proud first-generation college student Discovering development work through the senior class gift program at Bowling Green State University Learning advancement from the inside at Clemson through an assistantship and internship in student affairs development Moving from annual giving at Ohio Dominican into true major gift work at Ohio Wesleyan Deepening his experience at The Ohio State University, including corporate and foundation relationships in engineering Taking the leap to Vanderbilt in 2019 and navigating campaign work through a global pandemicThroughout the discussion, David is candid about rejection, risk, and the mindset shift required to think in campaign terms: staffing to the goal, using data to justify investment, and building portfolios that actually match institutional ambition.Whether you are planning your first serious campaign or trying to scale an existing one, this episode gives you a practical look at how a major university is restructuring its development shop to raise significantly more over the next decade.Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom discusses common assumptions fundraisers make about donors, why they prevent good fundraising and how to do better by embracing transparent curiosity.Looking for Fundraising Coaching?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom continues his discussion on how to have a presolicitation conversation with a potential donor and shares some thoughts the state of the podcast for the new year.Do you have a question you'd like Tom to address on the podcast or have a suggestion for a show topic? Let us know by emailing Tom at [email protected] for Fundraising Coaching?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom discusses how you can dramatically increase your success as a major gift fundraiser, by learning to ask for permission to have a gift discussion.Looking for Fundraising Coaching?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom wraps up his conversation with Bernice “Bea” Martin Lee, CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation, by diving into the real-world messiness behind big gifts, pulled commitments, and what it takes to build sustainable major gift growth.Bea begins with a powerful corporate solicitation story from her current role: how a pharma summit turned into a genuine partnership when she helped a company reframe its language around a new epilepsy rescue medication. From there, she unpacks what it looks like to come to the table as a true partner, not a supplicant, and how that posture has helped the Foundation secure and grow significant corporate support.Then the conversation turns to stewardship and data: Why stewardship is “the fun part” and also the most neglected part of the fundraising cycle How to make the internal case for spending time and money on donors after the gift is closed Practical examples of meaningful stewardship that go beyond plaques and events and actually honor donors’ stories and values How Bea used CRM analysis to identify 110 high-capacity, high-affinity donors who had not been stewarded properly, and how that discovery became the basis for a $10M philanthropic growth plan Why leaner, more focused portfolios often outperform bloated lists filled with lukewarm namesFinally, Bea shares one of her most painful and instructive moments as a fundraiser: a verbally committed seven-figure gift that was later retracted. She walks through: How it happened and why it was so awkward for everyone involved What she learned about hidden influencers and the importance of asking, “Who else needs to be part of this decision?” The exact kind of language she used to re-engage the donor without shame or pressure How she protected the donor internally, took responsibility, and rebuilt the relationship instead of walking away Why humility, patience, and a long-term view matter when a big gift falls apartIf you’ve ever struggled to get beyond “please help,” wrestled with stewardship priorities, or had a donor back away from a major commitment, this episode will give you both practical tools and a calmer, wiser way to think about the long game of major gifts.For more information on epilepsy, visit https://www.epilepsy.com/Looking for fundraising coaching or help planning your next campaign?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom continues his conversation with Bernice Martin Lee (“Bea”), CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation and longtime major gift leader, and they get very practical about what it takes to move donors from warm conversation to real commitments.Bea talks honestly about a moment she wishes she could redo: walking into a high-value corporate relationship meeting and realizing her team had never been taught how to actually close a gift. From there, she shares how she began retraining her fundraisers, why they hired a “closer” as CDO, and how a clear expectation at the end of every meeting can change your numbers dramatically.She then walks through two powerful stories that every fundraiser should steal from:A foundation cultivation event at the Red Cross that finally converted a long-unresponsive family foundation into a six-figure donor by putting them in the room with the right program leaderA long, thoughtful cultivation journey at Ohio State that transformed a $250K research gift into $3.4M through consistent impact reporting, attention to small personal details, and smart introductions to other institutional leadersIn this episode, you will learn:Why “let’s set up the next meeting” is often a sign you avoided the real askHow to prep your team to close gifts at conferences and corporate meetings instead of endlessly extending cultivationSimple closing language that sets a clear expectation and invites a concrete commitmentHow to tell when you truly do not have enough information for an ask versus when you are simply avoiding the discomfortWhy hiring or developing a true “closer” can unlock growth when you already have strong relationship buildersHow an in-person (or virtual) cultivation event can finally engage a foundation that has ignored your emails for yearsHow to use one high-credibility program leader to open doors with skeptical or hesitant fundersA step-by-step example of moving a scientific couple from a $250K gift to a $3.4M commitment during COVIDHow small, specific personal touches (like remembering a favorite bakery or a red convertible) deepen trust and signal that donors are people to you, not just prospectsIf you lead a team or carry a portfolio yourself, this episode will help you diagnose where conversations are stalling and give you practical ways to close more gifts without sacrificing authentic relationships.For more information on epilepsy, visit https://www.epilepsy.com/Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom sits down with Bernice Martin Lee ("Bea"), CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation and a former major gift officer and CDO, to talk about what happens when a fundraiser steps into the CEO seat and brings her own lived experience with epilepsy to the center of the mission.Bea shares how she went from keeping her diagnosis private because of stigma to publicly naming it on LinkedIn and using her story to champion health equity for a community that often feels isolated and unseen. She walks through her first year as CEO, where she led a full reset of the Foundation's vision, mission, strategic plan, and case for support, including the powerful new brand idea: "where empowered journeys begin."In this episode, you will learn: How Bea moved from major gift fundraising into the CEO role at a national health nonprofit Why she chose to disclose her epilepsy publicly and how that transparency has empowered others How she led the Epilepsy Foundation through a full re-visioning of mission, vision, and strategic plan What it looks like to build a clear, compelling case for support when it does not already exist How listening tours, focus groups, and 132 days on the road shaped their new direction Why their community pushed them to center "quality of life" instead of only "seizure freedom" How the brand idea "where empowered journeys begin" guides messaging, programs, and fundraising Practical advice for small-organization CEOs on involving the community they serve in case-building The leadership lesson Bea would tell her younger fundraiser self: treat fundraising like a marathon and let the donor lead the paceIf you lead a nonprofit, especially in health or social services, this conversation will give you a concrete picture of how to connect lived experience, community voice, and disciplined strategy in a way that makes fundraising stronger and more honest.Want to learn more about the work of the Epilepsy Foundation?https://www.epilepsy.com/Looking for Fundraising Coaching?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this solo episode, Tom shares a deeply personal story about being sexually harassed early in his fundraising career and uses it to unpack the uncomfortable reality many fundraisers face: donor power, money, and access can create real vulnerability, regardless of gender.Tom talks about what happened in that donor meeting, how his freeze response affected his choices in the moment, and what he wishes he had done differently. He also reflects on what he has learned since then as a manager and why he now speaks openly about this experience with his own teams.In this episode, you will learn: Why sexual harassment in fundraising is more widespread than many leaders admit How power dynamics between “person in need” and “person with money” create risk for fundraisers Why men are not exempt from harassment, even in faith based or “safe” environments How a freeze response can shape what you do in the moment and why planning ahead matters Practical ideas for setting boundaries and exiting a meeting when something feels wrong How managers can communicate unconditional support and give staff permission to walk away Why documenting incidents and flagging problem donors is essential for organizational safety How being forewarned can help early career fundraisers respond more confidently than Tom was able to at 22This is not a how to guide or a clinical training, but a candid story meant to validate what many fundraisers experience, name the professional danger clearly, and encourage healthier conversations inside our organizations about safety, boundaries, and support.gDr. E.E. Beaton's Personal Website with links to her research on sexual harassment in nonprofit settings:https://www.erynnbeaton.com/researchLooking for Fundraising Coaching?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Stephen shares more stories and advice on how development staff can communicate and work more effectively with fiscal staff.

Fractional CFO Stephen Newland shares his wisdom in this two part series about how fiscal officers and development officers can work together more effectively and learn to speak one another's language.  Need some Fractional CEO Support?  Contact Stephen at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenmnewland/Looking for Fundraising Coaching?Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode Tom shares how you can start evaluating your own database for free, using simple methodologies that anyone can learn.

In this episode Tom discusses the types of questions you should be asking your constituents to confirm wealth screening results and make sure they are the major gift prospects you are looking for.

In this episode Tom shares some of the realities of wealth screening results, where they fall short and how to understand what those optimistic results really mean.

in this episode Tom shares his thoughts on the ways wealth screenings can be helpful to your fundraising efforts.  

In this episode, Tom continues his conversation with Tim Meier and gets very practical about what it really takes to cultivate, solicit, and steward major donors over the long haul, especially in complex ministry or networked environments.Tim shares the story of a donor who gave the same seven-figure gift twelve years in a row, and what finally unlocked a fourfold and then fivefold increase when the vision caught up with the donor’s passion. He also talks about why you can never assume capacity based on appearance, and how “ordinary” people often carry extraordinary potential for generosity.In this conversation, you will learn how to: Recognize when a long-standing donor relationship is ready to be invited into a bigger vision Connect a donor’s personal story and community impact to a global or organizational campaign Stop guessing about who has wealth and start paying attention to passion, track record, and quiet signals Make bolder, vision-driven asks of organizational leaders, churches, and foundations Use challenge and matching gifts to catalyze whole communities of givers Practice meaningful stewardship at both high and modest gift levels, without a big-shop production budget Handle “rogue” donor initiatives and boundary issues without damaging the relationship Frame your organization’s funding needs so partners see collaboration, not competition, for donor dollarsIf you want to get better at growing large gifts over time, honoring donors well, and navigating the messy human side of generosity, this episode will give you clear examples and language you can use right away.Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this episode, Tom Dauber talks with Tim Meyer about how to handle donor timelines, build trust, and grow into larger gifts over time, especially when you did not come up through a traditional fundraising path.You will hear how Tim went from English major to global ministry, then into leading development for a large international denomination, and what that journey taught him about money, calling, and asking. He connects his background as a distance runner to the daily discipline needed to keep showing up in fundraising when results are uneven.In this conversation, you will learn how to:Think clearly about why some gifts take years and others come together quicklyAvoid getting too excited about “easy wins” or discouraged when relationships move slowlyRead donor timelines through the lens of vision, relationship, and trustLead through big changes in funding models without losing donor confidenceConnect donor passion to specific giving opportunities in practical, grounded waysTurn an encouraging conversation into a long-term partnership that can grow into very large giftsIf you want a realistic, non-fluffy picture of what it takes to grow significant donor relationships over time, this episode will help you reset your expectations and sharpen your approach.Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

In this two part episode, Tom covers the basics of prospect portfolios.  How to figure out who's in, who's out, how to keep the clean and why you should keep them smaller than you probably think!

In this two part episode, Tom covers the basics of prospect portfolios.  How to figure out who's in, who's out, how to keep the clean and why you should keep them smaller than you probably think!

In this conversation with Max [Last Name], we look at what truly moves donors toward meaningful commitments: trust, clarity, and real human connection. Max shares three detailed stories from his work in higher education that show how to design donor meetings that deepen relationships and lead to larger gifts.You’ll hear how a donor who was unsure where to focus her giving found clarity through a sequence of well-planned conversations with campus leaders and a student. You’ll also learn how a routine visit with a dean unexpectedly grew a planned $100,000 gift into a $500,000 commitment, and how a simple scholarship stewardship meeting helped a donor understand the impact of his generosity and ultimately expand his support.This episode explores: How to structure cultivation so donors gain both information and emotional connection Why hearing directly from beneficiaries often creates the strongest sense of purpose The role organizational leaders can play in building donor confidence How authentic rapport and shared experience can shift a donor’s vision for what is possible Practical ways to steward smaller annual gifts so they grow into larger, long-term commitmentsIf you are developing your skills in major gifts or leading fundraising in a small shop, this episode offers clear examples you can adapt immediately to build trust and inspire stronger support.Looking for fundraising coaching?  Check out www.abundantvision.net

Fundraising isn’t about groveling—it’s about impact. In this episode we unpack the “make no apologies” mindset, shifting conversations from dollars to outcomes, and valuing your own time as much as a donor’s. We also dig into why coaching beats one-off trainings, how to avoid lethal assumptions, and a powerful re-qualification story that rescued a planned gift after a communication breakdown. You’ll hear practical ways to steward through a donor’s health crisis (without soliciting), keep trust with thoughtful touchpoints, and balance fiscal-year pressure with long-term, transformational gifts.Looking for fundraising coaching? Check out www.abundantvision.net