The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast

Trust-Building Conversations with Major Donors

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0400

Two donors. Same problem.

Completely different outcomes.

One development officer waited too long to call. By the time she reached out about a delayed project, the donor had already pulled back. A significant gift quietly disappeared.

The other officer called early. She was honest. She said, "Here's what happened, here's what we learned, and here's what we did to fix it." The donor's response?

"I really appreciate you telling me that. Most organizations only call when they want something."

The difference between those two outcomes wasn't strategy or skill. It was clarity and follow-through.

In this week's episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I'm sharing everything I know about building deep, lasting trust with major donors, even when things don't go as planned.

You'll hear:

What "radical clarity" actually sounds like in a donor conversation
Four practical feedback loop ideas you can start this quarter
How to use AI to scale your stewardship without losing the human touch
A simple thirty-day challenge that could change how you approach donor relationships

What's one conversation you've been putting off with a donor? Connect with me on LinkedIn and share in the comments. You might be surprised how many people are in the same place.

Listen to the episode and share it with a colleague who's building major donor relationships right now. Let's grow together.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Learn more about the Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Subscribe to Tammy Zonker's Scaling Major Gifts newsletter

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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A Modern Tech Stack for Major Gift Success

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0400

Too many tools? Too little clarity?

And not enough hours to manage it all?

This episode is for you.

On this week's episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I talk about what a healthy major gifts tech stack actually looks like, and what to do about everything that's built up around it.

We cover the four core tech categories that matter for major gifts work, a five-criteria framework for evaluating any tool in your stack, where AI genuinely fits in a major gifts fundraising context, and a simple ninety-day tune-up plan that won't become another project on your plate.

I open the episode with a story about two development teams. One had eleven tools and a monthly meeting just to coordinate them. The other had four and their best portfolio results in years.

Here's the question the episode is built around: Is your tech stack making donor relationships easier, or is it one more thing your team has to manage around?

Your answer to that question might be worth thirty minutes of your week. 🎧

Listen to this episode and share it with a colleague who's been feeling the weight of too many tools.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Writing Donor Messages with AI, Not by AI

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 07:15:00 -0400

AI won’t replace your voice, but it can help amplify it.

I’ve been talking with so many fundraisers who want to try AI but worry their donor communication will start sounding robotic. I get it. Authenticity matters more than ever in twenty‑twenty‑six.

On this week’s Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I’m sharing how I use AI to draft and refine messages that still sound like me, while saving precious time for deeper donor connections.

How are you feeling about using AI in your fundraising communication?

Listen to “Writing Donor Messages with AI, Not by AI” and share it with your team or leadership today.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Take Back Your Week, Grow Your Major Gifts

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 07:15:00 -0400

My calendar used to tell on me.

I’d get to Friday and realize I’d spent the whole week in meetings, email, and “urgent” internal stuff… while my top donors barely heard from me. Sound familiar?

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share how I started treating my calendar like a major gift strategy tool, not a suggestion box. I walk through the three time blocks that changed everything for me, how to negotiate donor-first time with your boss and peers, and where AI can act like a junior assistant so you can focus on real donor relationships, not admin.

What might change in your revenue and your sanity if you reclaimed just six focused donor hours each week?

Listen to “Take Back Your Week, Grow Your Major Gifts” and share it with your team, your executive director, and your board.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

From Mid-Level to Major: Mapping the Journey

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 07:15:00 -0400

Your next major donor might already be giving

I’ve seen so many mid-level donors quietly reading emails, showing up at events, and faithfully giving year after year, without ever being invited into a deeper conversation.

When we finally slow down, notice their behavior, and map a simple journey from “thank you” to “tell me what matters most to you,” everything starts to change. Gifts grow, trust deepens, and fundraising feels more relational and less transactional.

What if your best future major donor is already in your mid-level file, just waiting to be seen a little more personally?

In this week’s episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I talk about “From Mid-Level to Major: Mapping the Journey” and share practical steps you can take with your own donors

Listen to the episode and share it with your team, your executive director, or a board member who cares about growing major gifts in a more intentional way.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Corporate Giving as a Major Gifts Lever

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 07:15:00 -0400

When one question unlocks three streams of giving

In this week’s episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share the story of a longtime donor whose impact multiplied once we connected his personal philanthropy with his role as a corporate leader. We walk through practical ways to spot those “blended” opportunities, bring corporate options into donor conversations without feeling salesy, and use AI to uncover hidden corporate influence in your portfolio.

Are you leaving corporate partnership potential sitting quietly inside your major gift file right now?

Listen to this episode of “Corporate Giving as a Major Gifts Lever” and share it with your team, your executive director, and your board.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Next-Gen Major Donors and the New Rules of Engagement

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 09:15:00 -0400

The biggest donors aren’t “the future” anymore. They’re already here.

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share what I’m seeing as younger, women, and values‑driven donors rewrite the rules of major giving. From shorter cultivation cycles to co‑designing impact and bringing families and circles into the conversation, I walk you through real stories and practical moves you can start testing right away.

If donors want speed, transparency, and a true voice at the table, what needs to change first in your approach

🎧 Listen to this episode and share it with a colleague, your executive director, or a board member who needs to hear this conversation.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Guest: Name, Title, Company

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Your 2026 Case for Transformational Gifts

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:30:00 -0400

Your case might be costing you 7‑figure gifts.

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share why so many cases still sound like they were written in 2019, and how I’m helping leaders like you update them for a 2026 donor mindset. I walk through the five elements of a modern case, where AI can truly help, and how to pressure‑test your message with trusted donors so they lean in instead of glazing over.

What would change for your organization if your case finally matched the level of impact you’re truly capable of? 🎧

Listen to this episode and share it with your team, board, and anyone who helps tell your organization’s story.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Making Your Major Gift Portfolio Shock-Resistant

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 16:30:00 -0400

One donor should never control your budget.

In this week’s episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share a story of a strong organization that felt “safe” until one major donor hit pause and everything started to wobble. We walk through how to map your top 20 donors, spot concentration risk, and start multi‑year commitment conversations that make your portfolio far more shock‑resistant.

How exposed are you to one donor’s decision right now?

Listen to this episode and share it with your team, your executive leader, or your board so you can strengthen your portfolio together.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Guest: Name, Title, Company

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Discovery That Builds Trust, Not Pressure

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:15:00 -0400

Your discovery calls shouldn’t feel like a test.

In my latest Intentional Fundraiser episode, I walk through how I help fundraisers turn tense, scripted discovery calls into relaxed, donor-centered conversations that still move major gifts forward.

We unpack a simple four part framework, real examples of questions that open people up, and a practical way to use AI so you can listen more and type less.

What would change in your portfolio if every discovery call felt like a conversation you were both glad you had?

Listen to this episode of “Discovery That Builds Trust, Not Pressure,” and share it with a colleague, your team, or your board.

More from Tammy Zonker

Author of Calling All Heroes

Founder of Fundraising Transformed

President of Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Major Gifts Training: Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar

Connect with Tammy Zonker on LinkedIn

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Turning Leaders into Effective Major Gift Partners

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Leaders keep derailing donor visits?

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched a beautifully teed‑up donor conversation go sideways the moment a well‑intentioned CEO or board member “pops in” unbriefed. You’ve done the research, built the relationship, framed the invitation…and then the message gets fuzzy, the energy shifts, and the donor walks away more confused than inspired.

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share how I’ve learned to turn those moments from chaotic to coordinated over nearly 30 years in major gifts. I walk you through the exact one‑page pre‑brief I use, how I coach leaders before we ever step into the room, and the subtle phrases I rely on to gently steer things back on track when conversations drift.

You’ll hear stories from real visits, practical language you can borrow with your own executives and board members, and a few ways AI can quietly help you prep and debrief meetings without losing the human touch.

What would change for your major gift program if every leader who joined a donor meeting showed up prepared, concise, and aligned with you?

Listen to “Turning Leaders into Effective Major Gift Partners,” and if it’s helpful, share it with a colleague or board member who often joins you in donor conversations.

Guest: Name, Title, Company

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Making Stewardship Personal, Scalable, Sustainable

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 07:15:00 -0400

“More touches” are burning teams out 😅

I talk with so many fundraisers who are trying to do heartfelt, hyper-personal stewardship for everyone… and ending up exhausted, guilty, and behind by December.

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share a simple 3-tier stewardship system I have used for years to keep donor care personal, scalable, and sustainable.

We get into:

The burnout story of doing “all the things” for everyone 😵‍💫
Why donors remember moments, not message volume
How to segment your portfolio into high touch, mid touch, and automated care
Where automation and AI belong, without sounding robotic 🤖❤️
How to build a 90 day stewardship map that replaces year end panic with a steady rhythm

I also walk through practical examples you can adapt in a small shop or a large institution, plus a simple challenge you can complete in under an hour.

What would change for you and your team if stewardship felt planned and sustainable instead of last minute and overwhelming

Listen to “Making Stewardship Personal, Scalable, Sustainable,” and share this episode with a colleague, executive director, or board member who cares about both donors and staff wellbeing. 🎧👉

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

AI-Powered Prep: Human-Centered Conversations

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:30:00 -0400

AI is already in your donor meetings.

I’ve been hearing from so many fundraisers who feel torn.

You want to use AI to save time, but you do not want donors to feel like they are talking to a robot instead of a real person.

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share how I use AI as a quiet research assistant, not a replacement for human connection. 🤝

I walk through a real world workflow for:

Turning public information into a one page prep brief 📝
Using AI to practice tough donor questions before you walk in the room 🎯
Setting simple guardrails so your team stays ethical and confident 🔒

In my experience, when you get this right, you walk into meetings feeling calmer, more prepared, and more present with your donors.

Here is the question I am sitting with:

How do you want AI to support your donor work without changing who you are as a fundraiser.

Listen to “AI-Powered Prep: Human-Centered Conversations,” then share this episode with a colleague, leadership or board member who is asking big questions about AI and major gifts. 🎧👉

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Finding Your Real Top 25 Donor Prospects

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 09:15:00 -0400

Drowning in “prospect” names?

If your major gift list looks impressive on paper but doesn’t translate into actual conversations or gifts, you’re not alone.

I’ve sat with teams staring at hundreds of “top prospects” and quietly thinking, “Where do we even start?”

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I share how I helped one nonprofit narrow 600+ “major gift prospects” down to a focused Top 25 using simple donor signals, capacity, affinity, and engagement, not just wealth.

We didn’t buy new software. We just read the data you already have in a different way.

I walk you through:

How to spot your real Top 25 using signals hiding in your CRM 💡
A simple 1–5 scoring system you can build in an afternoon
A weekly review ritual to stay focused (even when you’re stretched thin)
Where light AI and automation can quietly do the heavy lifting for you 🤖

Imagine looking at your portfolio and knowing exactly who to call first this week, because the data and the story are both pointing in the same direction.

What would change for your organization if your Top 25 were crystal clear, and everyone on your team agreed on who they are?

🎧 Tune in and if this episode helps you breathe a little easier about major gifts, share it with your ED/DD or a colleague who needs this clarity too.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Your 2026 Major Gifts Plan: Aspirational but Realistic

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:15:00 -0400

Big goals without a real plan?

That’s the fastest way to create burnout instead of breakthroughs.

I’ve seen it too often: a board sets a bold fundraising target, the team nods, and suddenly everyone’s sprinting toward a number that doesn’t match reality. Sound familiar?

In this week’s episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I share exactly how to build a 2026 major gifts plan that’s aspirational but realistic, one that inspires confidence instead of chaos.

You’ll hear stories from the field, a simple three-scenario model that calms anxiety, and practical steps to right-size your portfolio so you can stay focused on what really moves the needle.

✨ Because big goals are beautiful, but only when they’re grounded in data, relationships, and alignment.

How are you balancing ambition and realism in your 2026 plan?

🎧 Listen to this week’s episode and share it with another fundraiser who needs a little clarity and calm as they plan for the year ahead.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

How ‘Calling All Heroes’ Elevates Fundraising and Community Impact

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:15:00 -0400

What does it really mean to be a hero in fundraising?

After nearly 30 years working alongside major gift officers, executive directors, and nonprofit leaders, I've learned this: our sector's greatest challenges—poverty, injustice, inequality—are simply too big for any one person to solve alone.

That's why this week feels so special. I'm celebrating the official release of my new book, Calling All Heroes: Combining the Best of Donor-Centered and Community-Centered Fundraising for Greater Impact, with a brand-new podcast episode that dives deep into human-centered fundraising—where donor-centered and community-centered approaches finally unite.

In this episode, I share the story behind the book, including my transformative work with The Children's Center in Detroit (where we tripled philanthropic revenue while centering dignity and partnership), plus practical strategies you can implement immediately to:

Blend fundraising models without losing your mission
Build diverse, collaborative teams that reflect your community
Navigate power imbalances with courage and transparency
Reduce burnout while increasing impact

Here's the question I kept wrestling with before writing this book: How can we honor both the generosity of our donors AND the wisdom of our communities, bringing every voice to the table without compromising what matters most?

If you've ever felt torn between fundraising philosophies, exhausted by the pressure to "go it alone," or frustrated by division in our sector, this episode is for you.

Listen now and discover why the future of fundraising belongs to all of us, side by side. Then share it with your team, your board, and anyone who believes in transforming generosity into lasting impact.

Let's reclaim what it means to be everyday heroes. Together. 🚀

Today isn’t just a milestone, it’s the launchpad. If “Calling All Heroes” resonates with your experience, your hopes, and your frustrations, I invite you to grab your copy right now at https://www.callingallheroesbook.com/. Need extra copies for your team, chapter, or conference? Ordering in bulk—at a discount of course—is simple at the same link.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Creating Immersive Experiences that Move Donors to Action

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 14:15:00 -0400

Donors don’t remember stats. They remember how you made them feel!

My keynote titled "Casting Your Donors in a Lead Role: The Power of Immersion," which I delivered last week at the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, generated so much conversation.

Last week, I witnessed 800 nonprofit professionals moved to tears and action by stories that make our missions come alive.

It’s clear our field is hungry for ways to move beyond transactions and ignite true empathy.

From water walks to blindfolded dinners, immersive donor experiences can change everything.

Here's what I know: Donors want to feel your mission, not just fund it.

In this episode, I share some inspiring examples (charity: water, Leader Dogs for the Blind, Covenant House Michigan, and MADD) that have changed my perspective on fundraising.

Donor empathy skyrockets, support deepens, and fundraising transforms.

Listen and share it with your leadership and team or a colleague!

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

The Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar Experience

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:30:00 -0400

What if I told you the most powerful major gift fundraising seminar of your life could happen in your favorite chair, no travel required?

I just experienced it firsthand, livestreamed for three days, and let me tell you, the connections and insights our faculty delivered in a virtual setting blew me away.

I’ll never forget one moment: watching seasoned major gift fundraisers build new relationships and spark those “aha!” revelations during our virtual one-on-one “park bench” sessions. It made me realize that sometimes, the most meaningful growth happens when we step outside the expected.

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I’m sharing my reflection from our recent “Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar.” Plus, why you might want to rethink what’s possible for YOUR major gifts program.

Listen in and pass it on to a colleague who needs some inspiration!

As we close, I’m thrilled to invite you to our next three-day virtual Excellence in Major Gift Fundraising Seminar on January 27–29. Mark your calendar, rally your development team, and reserve your spot at modernicg.com.

The opportunity to transform your major gift fundraising starts here.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Building a Human-Centered Fundraising Pipeline

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0400

Are you chasing numbers or building relationships?

Most fundraisers are stuck on the hamster wheel.

Chasing donors. Juggling events. Burning out.

But what if the real breakthrough comes from slowing down?

Here’s the playbook for human-centered, relationship-first fundraising:

Schedule ONE meaningful conversation this week.

→ Ask, “What inspired you to support us?”

→ Listen—no agenda.

Map supporters by engagement TYPE, not just dollar size.

→ Who shows up at events?

→ Who shares your content?

→ Who asks tough questions?

Be transparent about your team capacity.

→ “It’s just me, but I’m committed to getting this right with you.”

→ People value authenticity.

Audit your outreach for inclusivity.

→ Who’s missing from your newsletters?

→ Are your stories and photos truly diverse?

→ Try translating content or inviting others to share their voice.

Focus on quality over quantity.

→ 5 heartfelt connections are worth more than 50 mass emails.

Use stories, not just stats.

→ Share one real example of impact (and don’t be afraid to mention setbacks).

TL;DR:

Transformational fundraising happens when you focus on real relationships, not just transactions.

Pre-order your copy of my new book, "Calling All Heroes: Combining the Best of Donor-Centered and Community-Centered Fundraising for Greater Impact.”

→ https://www.callingallheroesbook.com/

And to make it worth your while:

When you pre-order your copy of Calling All Heroes at the link in the show notes and submit your receipt or order number, you’ll receive a special invitation to my free, 90-minute training session: “How to Implement Human-Centered Fundraising in Your Organization.” It’s my way of saying thank you for walking with me on this journey.

And if you want extra copies for your team, chapter or an upcoming conference, we offer special discounts on bulk orders.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0400

This one has been simmering inside me for months.

It’s about the language we use in the nonprofit sector—and why we need to be more mindful of it.

Specifically, I’m making a plea to eliminate phrases like “tips and tricks” when we talk about engaging donors.

Because giving is not a “trick.” Donors are not targets. And we are not magicians trying to perform sleight of hand to win gifts.

When we say things like “tips and tricks” or “low-hanging fruit” in fundraising, we might think we’re being harmless, maybe even clever.

But in reality, we’re reinforcing a belief system that positions fundraising as transactional, manipulative, or worse, dishonest.

That’s why in this episode, I take us on a journey into the power of language in fundraising, how it shapes donor relationships, and how it shapes us.

Listen in and let’s transform our language (and our sector!) together.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Strategies for Major Donor Retention

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 10:15:00 -0400

Only 45% of first-time major donors come back.

Let that sink in.

For years, I believed winning that first major gift was the hardest part—until I realized the real challenge (and transformation) is turning new donors into lifelong champions.

In this episode, I share personal stories, the tools I use, and proven strategies for moving beyond transactional gifts to genuine partnership.

If you could double your donor retention this year, what would it mean for your mission?

→ Take a listen.

Share with your team, and let’s transform fundraising—together.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Breaking Down Silos: Why the Future of Fundraising is Human-Centered

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 11:30:00 -0400

Feeling stuck between fundraising approaches? Break down the silos!

I’ve seen the fundraising divide firsthand—and I believe there’s a better way. I call it human-centered fundraising.

I recently heard a longtime donor say, “I’m tired of being just a checkbook. I want to be part of something bigger.” I’ve felt that tension, too.

Donor fatigue is real—but connection changes everything.

Let’s stop choosing sides and start building bridges.

Want to learn how human-centered fundraising could transform your mission?

Tune in to this episode and share it with a colleague who’s ready to reimagine fundraising for greater impact.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Becoming Ken: What Fundraisers Can Learn about Dignity, Trust, and Self-Worth

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 10:15:00 -0400

Your self-worth ≠ your last “no”

That’s what Ken Miller told me during a conversation that left me rethinking how we lead, fundraise, and show up for everyone—not just donors. From the heights of Ivy League success to the lows of prison, Ken’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, dignity, and knowing your worth.

His lessons on boundaries, self-esteem, and leading with love are ones every fundraiser, ED, and board member needs to hear. What would change in your work if you truly separated your worth from your results?

Listen to this powerful episode and then share it with a colleague or board member who needs inspiration today.

Guest: Ken Miller, President, Denali FSP Fundraising Consultants

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Join our Three-Day "Major Gifts Fundraising Program" Seminar: Learn more and reserve your spot today!

Pre-order my book: Calling All Heroes: Combining the Best of Donor-Centered and Community-Centered Fundraising for Greater Impact

How to Build Trust and Stand Firm in Fundraising

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 11:45:00 -0400

Why do we still treat donors like royalty and our teams like afterthoughts?

After years in fundraising, I’ve seen how trust, power dynamics, and deep listening can make (or break) our impact. In my latest conversation with sector leader Martha Schumacher, we dig into trust-based philanthropy, standing firm against mission creep, and why real integrity sometimes means saying “no, thank you”—even to transformational gifts.

Martha’s stories will stir your soul and challenge the way you lead. Are we centering our people and our missions, or are we sacrificing them for comfort and tradition?

Ready to see what a healthier, more courageous sector could look like?

Listen now at or wherever you get your podcasts!

ps – Share this episode with team members and board colleagues who could use a dose of renewal and inspiration!

Guest: Martha Schumacher, President, Hazen and HILT

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Bridging the Gap: Blending Donor and Community-Centered Fundraising

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:45:00 -0400

Burned out by fundraising debates?

I know how exhausting it feels when donor-centered vs. community-centered fundraising pulls us apart—while donor fatigue and burnout drag us down. But what if there’s a more human, powerful way forward?

In this episode, I share how I learned to build bridges, not barriers, and saw philanthropy—and team morale—soar in the process.

What would your organization look like if everyone—donors, staff, and community—felt like a hero in your story?

Take a listen, then share it with someone else who believes unity is the real superpower.

Together, we can transform fundraising—and the world.

Guest: Tammy Zonker

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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From Overwhelm to Opportunity: AI and the Modern Fundraiser

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:45:00 -0400

Curiosity beats fear—every single time.

Ever felt like AI is just spinning faster than you can keep up? I’ve been there—overwhelmed by “the next big thing” while trying to deliver more, with less, for my organization. In my latest conversation with AI thought leader Nathan Chappell, I discovered game-changing ways to shift from anxiety to opportunity—by asking better questions, not by working harder.

Nathan reminds us: It’s not about mastering every shiny new tool, but about creating space to think, rewarding curiosity, and building trust at the core of our donor relationships.

If we don’t pause to rethink our pain points, are we missing the chance to transform how we serve our mission?

Listen to this episode for honest insight, practical advice, and renewed optimism about where fundraising is headed. Share it with other fundraisers and nonprofit leaders who needs a spark!

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Honoring Voices: Building an Ethical Storytelling Culture in Nonprofits

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0400

We don't need more “poverty porn” in our fundraising.

I used to think telling hard stories was the only way to move donors—but I was wrong. If you’ve ever felt uneasy asking clients for stories, or unsure if your consent process would stand up to scrutiny, you’re not alone. I sat down with ethical storytelling expert Carly Euler from MemoryFox to explore how we can uplift voices, protect dignity, and still inspire major gifts.

What would it mean for your mission—and the people you serve—to get storytelling right, not just for dollars raised, but for true community trust?

Listen to this episode and share it with someone ready to transform their approach to fundraising stories.

Guest: Carly Euler, Marketing Director, MemoryFox

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Digital Heartbeats: Engaging Major Donors in a Virtual World

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 10:15:00 -0400

Are your donor relationships thriving—or just surviving?

Most nonprofits rely on mass emails and generic updates—then wonder why major donors disappear.

Here’s the truth:

Connection isn’t about the channel.

It’s about intentionality..

After 30+ years in fundraising, I’ve learned what actually works in a digital world:

→ Personalize every touchpoint.

“Dear Friend” won’t cut it. Use your CRM to reference gifts, interests, and conversations.

→ Show impact with stories & visuals.

A quick video tour or photo diary is more memorable than a spreadsheet.

→ Automate routine, but keep it human.

Tools like ThankView free you up for real conversations—not replace them.

→ Make giving frictionless.

Test your donation process. If it’s clunky, fix it—fast.

→ Invite two-way engagement.

Host virtual coffees, send surveys, and ask for feedback. Donors want to be heard.

TL;DR: Tech will keep evolving, but authentic connection is the real differentiator.

How are you making your major donors feel truly seen in a digital age?

Listen to the full episode.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Embracing the Subscription Model in Nonprofit Giving

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 06:45:00 -0400

Donor counts are dropping—even as giving hits record highs.

This isn’t just a headline. It’s the reality I unpacked with Dave Raley on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

We dove into why recurring giving is the bright spot in a shifting landscape—and why too many nonprofits still treat it like an afterthought. For years, I thought monthly giving was just for “big” organizations or required fancy tech. Dave’s insights (and his book, The Rise of Sustainable Giving) showed me: any nonprofit can build a thriving program by focusing on real connection and community.

Take a listen.

Guest: Dave Raley, Founder & CEO, Imago Consulting

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Drawing a Line Between Fundraiser and Donor

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Ever felt like your donor relationships are turning into guilt trips?

After nearly 30 years in major gifts, I’ve seen how easy it is for the line between professionalism and friendship to blur.

One story still sticks with me: a fundraiser got so close to a donor, she couldn’t bring herself to ask for support. The result? The mission lost out.

Here’s the truth: 70% of donors say their relationship with the fundraiser influences their giving decisions. But when things get too personal, it can lead to guilt, hesitation, and even burnout. I’ve been there—and I know many of you have, too.

So, where should we draw the line? How do we build trust and connection—without sacrificing our mission or our own well-being?

If you’ve ever wrestled with these questions, you’re not alone. I just dropped a new episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast diving deep into this very topic. I share real stories, practical strategies, and tools you can use to keep your donor relationships professional and impactful.

Curious how to protect your role, your donors, and your organization—without losing your heart?

Listen to the latest episode and share it with your team. Let’s start a conversation that every nonprofit leader needs to have.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Bold Fundraising During Tumultuous Times

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 12:30:00 -0400

Donor hesitation is NOT your cue to retreat.

I’ve seen firsthand how economic storms can freeze even the boldest fundraisers—but I’ve also watched organizations thrive by leaning in, not pulling back. In my latest episode, I share real stories, actionable strategies, and a few hard-won lessons to help you fundraise with confidence—even when the ground feels shaky.

What’s your go-to move when uncertainty hits—do you wait it out or double down with intention?

Listen in to this episode, share it with your team, and let’s stay bold, stay connected, and stay intentional.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Ten Toes Down: Building Bold, Inclusive Philanthropy in Uncertain Times

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:30:00 -0400

Have you ever felt like your organization is stuck in the same old fundraising routines, even as the world around us demands more courage and authenticity? I’ve been there too.

That’s why my recent conversation with the brilliant Maia McGill hit home—her story of moving from “checking the DEI box” to building truly inclusive philanthropy is both eye-opening and deeply relatable.

Maia’s journey reminded me of the power (and the risk) of standing “ten toes down” for equity, even when it’s uncomfortable. She doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges—she’s seen organizations retreat or “scrub” their DEI commitments out of fear.

But she also shares how real change happens: by centering the voices that matter, budgeting for inclusion, and refusing to let fear drive our decisions.

What would it look like if your board meetings and donor relationships reflected the full diversity and lived experiences of your community? 🤔

If you’re ready to reimagine what’s possible in your fundraising—and want practical, honest advice from someone who’s walked the walk—listen to this episode and share it with your colleagues.

Let’s build a future for philanthropy that’s bold, inclusive, and transformational.

Guest: Maia McGill, Founder, Inclusive Philanthropy Institute / CEO, Maia McGill Consulting / Advocate for Marginalized Communities / Faculty, Modern Institute for Charitable Giving

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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The Slow Fundraising Movement: Depth Over Speed

Tue, 27 May 2025 14:15:00 -0400

In this episode of the Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with David Kravinchuk to talk about why philanthropy is so important for everyone. We also chatted about the upcoming Western Canada Fundraising Conference, and I loved hearing David describe what makes it so unique—from its warm, intimate community feel to the practical, hands-on sessions attendees can look forward to.

David introduced me to the idea of the "slow fundraising movement," which is inspired by the slow food movement. He explained how taking time to build deeper relationships and communicate thoughtfully with donors can really transform our fundraising efforts. As we talked, we explored how the world of fundraising is evolving, and why it’s so crucial to focus on building lasting, meaningful connections with donors instead of just chasing numbers.

We also discussed the impact of community-driven fundraising and why embracing a more intentional approach—one that includes self-care and prioritizes genuine relationships—can make such a difference.

It was such an inspiring conversation, and I hope it encourages you to slow down, connect more deeply, and truly appreciate the people who make our work possible.

Guest: David Kravinchuk, Philanthropy Firebrand, The Common Good fundraising agency

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Transforming Donor Relationships with Data-Driven Moves Management

Tue, 20 May 2025 12:15:00 -0400

Have you ever felt like you’re juggling donor relationships in the dark, hoping you don’t drop the ball?

In this week’s episode, I share how a data-driven moves management process turned my fundraising chaos into clarity—and how one missed thank-you nearly cost us a loyal donor.

You’ll hear real stories, practical tips, and a few fun surprises that will make you rethink how you engage your top supporters.

What if you could use data to make every donor feel like your only donor? 🤔 Listen now and share this episode with your colleagues who are ready to transform their fundraising game!

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Transforming Major Gifts: How ModernICG Is Shaping the Future of Fundraising

Tue, 06 May 2025 12:30:00 -0400

I’ve got some BIG news to share — something that could change the way you think about major gift fundraising! After 30 years in this field, I’ve seen our world shift in ways we never imagined: donor expectations are evolving, technology is accelerating, and the challenges we face are more complex than ever.

Imagine standing at the intersection of legacy and innovation, where the wisdom of fundraising giants meets the energy of the future. What if you could access the very best in major gift fundraising education, not just from your city or state, but from anywhere in the world?

Well, that future is here.

If you’re ready to reimagine what’s possible for your organization, don’t miss this edition of Scaling Major Gifts.

👉 Listen in, get inspired, and please share it with your colleagues who are ready to lead the future of major gift fundraising! 💡

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Beyond the Thank-You: Transforming Major Donors into Lifelong Partners

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 19:00:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered why some major donors become lifelong champions while others quietly slip away?

After nearly three decades in fundraising, I’ve learned that the answer lies in how we steward those relationships-not just with a thank-you, but with genuine, ongoing care.

In this episode, I’ll share the real-life story of how one intentional stewardship journey turned a surprise $25,000 gift into a $250,000 legacy commitment. You’ll hear the strategies, the stumbles, and the simple shifts that made all the difference.

Are you making your major donors feel truly seen, heard, and valued? Or are you missing opportunities to deepen those critical partnerships?

Tune in to discover practical tips, timely trends, and tools you can use right now to retain and grow your most important supporters.

And if this episode resonates, please share it with your fellow fundraisers-let’s raise the bar for donor care together!

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Overcoming the Top 7 Major Gift Fundraising Hurdles

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 07:15:00 -0400

Are major gifts feeling out of reach?

Here's how to tackle the toughest major gift fundraising challenges! 🚀

Feeling like you’re chasing ghosts instead of donors? I know that struggle all too well. After nearly 30 years in fundraising, I’ve seen firsthand how major gift officers, development directors, executive directors, and board members pour heart and soul into donor outreach—only to hit walls of silence, “ghosting,” and stalled relationships.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to stay stuck. In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I share real stories and proven strategies that helped one organization boost major donor revenue by over 453%. From overcoming the fear of the ask to leveraging technology that actually frees up your time, I walk you through practical steps you can implement right away.

Imagine what your nonprofit could achieve with a thriving major gift program. What’s the one challenge holding you back from transformational fundraising success? 🤔

Tune in to this episode for actionable insights, a few laughs, and a whole lot of encouragement.

If you find it helpful, please share it with your team and fellow changemakers—because together, we can transform the world, one intentional gift at a time.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Intentional Storytelling: Empowering Patients, Inspiring Donors

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt the goosebumps when a grateful patient shares how your organization changed their life? 💙

Those stories don’t just move us—they move mountains for our missions. But inviting patients and families to share their journeys? That’s a delicate dance between inspiration and sensitivity.

In this week’s episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I open up about what I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) after nearly 30 years in major gifts and nonprofit leadership. I’ll share real-world stories, practical strategies, and a few “aha!” moments about how to honor patient voices, protect privacy, and turn gratitude into lasting impact.

Here’s my question for you: How do you invite authentic stories without ever making someone feel like a fundraising tool? 🤔

If you’re a major gift officer, development director, executive director, or board member who wants to fundraise with heart—and results—this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in, share it with your team, and let’s create a culture of storytelling that transforms communities.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Be Courageous: Insights from AFP Global Chair Roger Ali

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:15:00 -0400

Have you ever felt the weight of navigating donor relationships, balancing mission integrity, and leading with courage in the nonprofit sector? I know I have. It’s not always easy, but conversations like the one I had with Roger Ali, AFP Global Board Chair, remind me why we do this work. 🌟

Roger’s journey from a Chamberlain Scholar to a global leader is nothing short of inspiring. He shared powerful lessons about standing firm in your values—even when it’s hard—and embracing collaboration to create richer outcomes. His mantra? “Be courageous. We can do this together.” 💪

We also explored exciting trends shaping the sector, including AFP’s strategic priorities and the must-attend ICON conference. But here’s my question for you: How can we, as nonprofit leaders, show courage in the face of challenges while staying true to our mission? 🤔

👉 Dive into this episode for actionable insights and inspiration.

Let’s elevate our work together! 🎧 Share this post with your colleagues and join the conversation.

Guest: Roger Ali, MBA, C.Dir., CFRE, AFP Global Board Chair

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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The Power of a Team-First Culture in Major Gift Success

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 13:15:00 -0400

Have you ever seen two fundraisers accidentally approach the same donor with conflicting proposals? I have—and let me tell you, it wasn’t pretty. 😬

It’s a moment I’ll never forget because it taught me one of the most important lessons in my career: fundraising isn’t a solo sport.

In this week’s episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I’m sharing how embracing a team-first culture can transform your major gifts program. 💡 From personal stories (like that donor mix-up) to actionable strategies, we’ll explore how collaboration can lead to bigger gifts, happier teams, and more engaged donors.

Here’s a question for you: Is your team working together—or just working in the same office? 🤔 If there’s room for improvement (and let’s be honest, there always is), this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how to break down silos, build trust, and celebrate team wins that make a real impact. And don’t forget to share this episode with your colleagues—because great fundraising starts with great teamwork!

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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From Burnout to Balance: Lessons from Kishshana Palmer

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:30:00 -0400

Is your work running you instead of the other way around? Here's how to break free from the busyness trap...

I’ve certainly been there, and so has Kishshana Palmer, the powerhouse author of Busy is a Four-Letter Word. In our recent conversation on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, Kishshana shared stories that hit home—like the moment her daughter told her, “You don’t have to monetize everything you’re good at.” 💡 That was her wake-up call to rethink how she approached work and life.

This episode dives deep into overcoming “martyritis” (yes, it’s a thing!), achieving more by doing less, and leading high-performing teams without burnout. Kishshana’s five-step Rethink Method will challenge you to pause, assess, and prioritize wellness—for yourself and your team. 🌟

So, here’s my question to you:

Are you ready to reclaim your time and purpose while still making an impact? If yes, grab a coffee (or tea ☕️), listen to this inspiring episode, and let’s redefine productivity together.

🎧 Listen now and share this with fellow nonprofit leaders who need to hear it! Let’s start a movement for intentional leadership. 💬

Guest: Kishshana Palmer, CEO, ManageMint, Inc.

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Navigating Stakeholder Expectations and Building Sustainable Fundraising Strategies

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:45:00 -0400

Feeling pressure to hit fundraising goals while trying to build lasting donor relationships?

I’ve been there too. It’s like walking a tightrope—balancing board expectations, donor engagement, and strategic goals without losing sight of your nonprofit’s mission. 🎯

In my recent conversation with Cherian Koshy on #TheIntentionalFundraiserPodcast, we dove into the heart of these challenges. Cherian shared game-changing insights on how curiosity can transform stakeholder relationships, why ROI isn’t just about numbers, and how technology can empower us to focus on what really matters—human connection. 💡

So, let me ask you: Are you ready to rethink how you measure success and create sustainable growth in your organization? If so, this episode is for you. 🎙️

👉 Tune in now and discover strategies that will inspire your work and strengthen your impact. Let’s navigate this journey together! 🌟

Guest: Cherian Koshy, Vice President of Product Strategy, Kindsight

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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What Separates Great Nonprofits from Those that Struggle

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 07:15:00 -0400

Feeling ike your #nonprofit is stuck in a cycle of “just getting by”? In my recent conversation with Alan Clayton, author of Great Fundraising Organizations: Why and How the World's Best Charities Excel at Raising Money, we explored what separates great fundraising organizations from those that struggle. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about having a great mission or a big budget—it’s about intentionality, leadership, and alignment.

Alan shared stories that gave me goosebumps, like how St. Labre Indian School found its true purpose and unlocked transformational growth. He also revealed why donors don’t give to organizations—they give to solve problems—and how understanding this simple truth can change everything.

We discussed that one of the biggest challenges nonprofits face is balancing immediate fundraising needs with long-term sustainability. What's Alan's advice?

👉 Tune in for his answer!

Guest: Alan Clayton, CEO at Revolutionise International, International Consultant, Author

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Leveraging Digital Strategies for Major Gift Cultivation

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 15:30:00 -0400

Leveraging Digital Strategies for Major Gift Cultivation

How do you make a major donor feel truly connected... without ever meeting face-to-face? 💻🤝

In this episode, I'm taking you on a journey through the digital frontier of fundraising. I remember a donor who used to frame my handwritten notes? Now she's all about personalized video updates! It's a brave new world out there, folks, and I'm here to guide you through it.

From virtual events that feel intimate to social media strategies that deepen relationships, I'm sharing all my secrets. But here's the burning question: Can digital tools really replace the warmth of a handshake? 🤔

Tune in to discover how I helped one nonprofit boost major gift revenue by 22% using these exact strategies!

👉 Listen in now.

#TheIntentionalFundraiserPodcast #DigitalFundraising #MajorGifts #NonprofitInnovation #DonorRelationships

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Supercharge Your Capital Campaign with Challenge Gifts

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 14:15:00 -0400

Imagine a small arts org, struggling to hit their targets. Then BAM! 💥 A $100k challenge gift comes in, and suddenly we're not just meeting goals - we're smashing them!

Want to know how we turned that mountain into a molehill? 🏔️➡️🐜

I'm spilling all the tea on challenge gifts - the fundraising superpower you didn't know you needed. 🦸‍♀️💰

Ready to transform your next campaign from "meh" to "AMAZING"? 🎉

👉 Listen now.

#TheIntentionalFundraiser #NonprofitSuccess #ChallengeGifts #CapitalCampaign

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Your Roadmap to Major Gift Success

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0400

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I talk about building a major gift program that can transform your nonprofit's financial landscape. 🍵💰

Picture this: You're standing at the base of a mountain, your organization's most ambitious goals looming at the peak. Seems impossible to reach, right? Wrong! I'll show you how to build a bridge that'll take you straight to the top. 🏔️🌉

Here's the million-dollar question (pun intended 😉): What could your nonprofit achieve if you had a thriving major gift program?

Ready to find out? Tune in to my latest episode. And share it with your team and colleagues – they'll love you for it! 💖

#TheIntentionalFundraiserPodcast #MajorGifts #MajorDonor #NonprofitFundraising #DonorRelations #NonprofitLeadership

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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5 Strategies that Work for Mastering Major Donor Cultivation

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 13:15:00 -0400

🌟 What if I told you one conversation could unlock a transformational gift for your nonprofit?

I’ve sat across from donors who seemed untouchable—until a simple, personalized video led to a six-figure gift. 🎥💸 Sound like magic? It’s not. It’s strategy.

Here’s the truth: "major donors aren’t ATMs." They’re partners waiting to fall in love with your mission. But how do you bridge the gap between “Hi, nice to meet you” and “Here’s my life-changing gift”?

I’ll share the exact moment a donor looked me in the eye and said, “I finally get it”—and how that moment turned into a $500,000 commitment. 🤝

Here’s my question for you: "When was the last time a donor told YOU, 'I finally get it'?" If it’s been a while, this episode is for you.

🎧 Hit play now to discover the 5 strategies that helped nonprofits like yours boost major gift revenue by 40% in 18 months. Then share it with your team—because transformational fundraising starts here.

#MajorGifts #NonprofitLeadership #FundraisingStrategies #PhilanthropyMatters #ListenAndShare 🌍✨

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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The Silent Revolution of Anonymous Giving

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 09:45:00 -0400

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I dive deep into a trend that's quietly reshaping philanthropy — the Silent Revolution of Anonymous Giving. Imagine receiving a six-figure donation, only to discover it comes from 'Anonymous.' Exciting, right? But how do we express gratitude and demonstrate impact when we can’t even name our benefactor? 🤔

I share a story from my time working with a mid-size organization in Detroit that faced this very challenge. Their initial joy turned to uncertainty when they received a $500,000 anonymous gift. Together, we crafted creative strategies that not only honored donor privacy but also fostered deeper connections and trust.

What if the future of fundraising isn't about names on walls but about the profound impact we create together? 🌍

Join me as I explore actionable tips for embracing this new landscape and ensuring every gift—named or unnamed—is celebrated for its impact.

👉 Tune in now and let’s transform your fundraising approach! And if you find it valuable, please share it with your network!

#Nonprofit #Fundraising #AnonymousGiving #Philanthropy #DonorRelations

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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How "Thank You" Can Transform Your Fundraising

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 06:45:00 -0400

I just had the most incredible conversation with Lisa Sargent, the gratitude expert of fundraising! 🙌

You know that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when someone genuinely appreciates you? Well, imagine if we could bottle that feeling and use it to transform our donor relationships! 💖 That's exactly what Lisa and I explored in our chat about her new book, "Thankology."

Did you know that a simple "thank you" could potentially increase donations by $450,000? 🤯 Or that expressing gratitude actually lights up specific areas of our brains, promoting understanding and pro-social behavior?

Here's a thought-provoking question for you: Are we truly making our donors feel seen and appreciated, or are we just going through the motions?

Get ready to discover how implementing effective thanking strategies can boost donor retention, increase giving levels, and create a more fulfilling experience for both your donors and your organization. 🚀

Listen to this episode now and share it with your colleagues.

#FundraisingTips #DonorAppreciation #NonprofitLeadership #Thankology

Guest: Lisa Sargent, Principal, Lisa Sargent Communications, Author

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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The Power of Preparation: Keys to Launching a Successful Capital Campaign

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 07:15:00 -0400

Overwhelmed at the prospect of launching a capital or comprehensive campaign for your nonprofit?

As someone who's been in the fundraising trenches for years, I remember the mix of excitement and sheer terror that came with my first capital campaign. But here's the good news: with the right preparation and strategies, you can turn that apprehension into confidence and success.

In this episode, I share with you the key insights I've gained from my experiences and the lessons I've learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or new to major gifts, I promise you'll walk away with practical tips and a renewed sense of purpose for your next capital campaign.

Take a listen and discover how to transform your fundraising game!

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

The Power of Conversational Fundraising: Strategies for Meaningful Donor Engagement

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0400

🎙️ Ever felt that pit in your stomach before asking for a major gift? I've been there too! 😅

In my latest chat with Kent Stroman, founder of The Asking Academy, you'll discover how to transform those anxiety-inducing donor meetings into genuine, enjoyable conversations.

Want to know the secret behind asking heart questions that unlock donor stories? 🗝️ Or how about the perfect timing for "the ask" that'll revolutionize your approach? 🕰️

Curious about how one new executive director overcame her hesitation and sparked a donor connection she never thought possible? 🌟

What if I told you there's a way to make fundraising not just bearable but truly fulfilling for both you and your donors?

Listen to this insightful episode and learn how to build deeper donor relationships that lead to transformative giving. Then share it with your fundraising squad – because great conversations lead to greater impact! 💪

Guest: Kent Stroman, President, Stroman & Associates, Asking Coach, Speaker & Author

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Building a Movement of Charitable Living Through Monthly Giving

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0400

🎙️ I recently had an awesome conversation with Dana Snyder, author of The Monthly Giving Mastermind, and wow, can it change your perspective on monthly giving programs?! 🤯

Dana shared a powerful framework that could revolutionize how we approach donor engagement and financial stability. From treating monthly giving as a product to building a community of supporters, her insights are pure gold for any nonprofit.

But here's the million-dollar question: Are you ready to tap into the power of the subscription economy and create a movement of charitable living? 🤔

Don't miss out on this episode packed with practical tips and inspiring stories. Listen now and share it with your colleagues - together, we can reshape the future of fundraising! 💪

👉 Take a listen!

Guest: Dana Snyder, Speaker, Author, and Host of Missions to Movements Podcast

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Beyond the Ask: How Relationship Fundraising Can Transform Your Nonprofit

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 10:30:00 -0400

Ever wondered why donors leave faster than we can acquire them? 😓

I recently had the privilege of chatting with the brilliant Ken Burnett, the father of relationship fundraising, about his newest book, "Relationship Fundraising, Third Edition. And let me tell you, it was eye-opening! 👀

Ken shared a story about Marjorie, a loyal donor who valued her annual conversations with her favorite charity more than the convenience of automated giving. It made me wonder: are we sometimes so focused on efficiency that we forget the human touch? 🤔

Ready to revolutionize your approach to donor relationships? Tune in to this game-changing episode and discover how to keep your supporters engaged for the long haul! 🚀

Take a listen and share with your team! Together, we can transform the nonprofit sector. 💪

#RelationshipFundraising #DonorRetention #NonprofitLeadership

Guest: Ken Burnett, Father of Relationship Fundraising, Author

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Insights from the 2024 State of Capital Campaigns Benchmark Report

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 11:30:00 -0400

🚀 Feeling hesitant about launching a capital campaign? I've got some eye-opening news for you!

In my latest chat with Stephen Shattuck from Capital Campaign Pro, we dived deep into the 2024 State of Capital Campaigns Benchmark Report. What they uncovered might surprise you - especially if you're leading a smaller nonprofit! 💪

Did you know that 96% of organizations considered their campaigns successful, regardless of hitting their exact goal? And here's a shocker: small organizations often outperformed larger ones in key areas! 🤯

But what about the age-old fear of cannibalizing your annual fund? Well, you'll have to tune in to hear the surprising truth!

Ready to challenge your assumptions and gain the confidence to launch your next (or first) capital campaign? 🎯

👉 Listen to this episode now and share it with your colleagues.

#CapitalCampaigns #NonprofitFundraising #FundraisingSuccess #DevelopmentDirectors #NonprofitLeadership

Guest: Steven Shattuck, Director of Engagement, Capital Campaign Pro, Author

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

From Stress to Success: Transforming Your Fundraising Mindset with Mallory Erickson

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 13:30:00 -0400

Ever felt like you're wearing a mask in your fundraising role? I have. In my recent chat with Mallory Erickson, we pulled back the curtain on the real struggles and triumphs of nonprofit professionals.

From battling burnout to embracing alignment, we dove deep into the heart of what makes fundraising both challenging and rewarding. Mallory shared several practical strategies that we can implement immediately:

Cultivate curiosity: When faced with resistance or fear, get curious about where those feelings are coming from. This can help create space for new possibilities.
Acknowledge discomfort: Recognize that feeling uncomfortable is normal in fundraising. Not all discomfort is bad – sometimes it's a sign we're growing or staying true to our values.
Focus on removing barriers: Instead of always trying to add new strategies, look at what's holding you back and work on removing those obstacles.
Prioritize and focus: Mallory shared how she grew fundraising by 10 times in six months by focusing intensely on one area (corporate partnerships) rather than trying to do everything at once.

What if I told you that your fundraising fears are not only normal but could be the key to unlocking your potential?

Listen to this juicy episode and then share it with everyone. It's a must-listen for every nonprofit pro!

Guest: Mallory Erickson, Executive Coach, Fundraising Consultant, Author, Host of the Podcast What the Fundraising

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

How Donors Feel About the Use of AI in Fundraising

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 16:15:00 -0400

🤯 Mind blown! I just had the most incredible conversation with AI fundraising experts Nathan Chappell and Cherian Koshy. Ever wonder what donors really think about AI in fundraising? 🤔 These two brilliant minds joined forces to conduct groundbreaking research, "Donor Perceptions of AI: Key Findings," and the results are eye-opening!

From transparency concerns to the surprising comfort levels with AI-driven solicitations, this episode is packed with insights that will reshape how we approach fundraising in the digital age. 🚀

Are you ready to navigate the exciting (and sometimes scary) world of AI in fundraising? Don't miss this eye-opening episode!

Listen now and share with your colleagues. Together, we can harness the power of AI while maintaining the human touch that makes our sector so special. 💖

#AIFundraising #NonprofitInnovation #FundraisingFuture #DonorInsights

My Guests:

Nathan Chappell, MBA, MNA, CFRE, Senior Vice President, DonorSearch

Cherian Koshy, Vice President of Product Strategy, Kindsight

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

Privacy Policy: See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Newsletter: Subscribe to my Scaling Major Gifts weekly newsletter.

Bridging Crypto and Causes: Shaping the Next Era of Giving

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 12:45:00 -0400

Ever wondered how cryptocurrency is transforming the world of philanthropy? Join me in exploring this fascinating topic in my latest podcast episode featuring Pat Duffy, Co-Founder of The Giving Block. In this enlightening conversation, we uncover:

The significant growth of crypto donations and its implications for nonprofits.
Insights into the demographics of crypto donors and how organizations can engage them effectively.
Practical tips and strategies for embracing crypto philanthropy and maximizing fundraising efforts.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights and stay ahead of the curve in fundraising! Tune in now and share the episode with your fellow fundraisers and nonprofit leaders.

Let's revolutionize the way supporters give to the causes they care about most.

Guest: Pat Duffy, Co-Founder, The Giving Block

Resources: Show notes, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

Review our show on Apple Podcasts. After you click the link, scroll to the bottom, first tap to rate with five stars, and then tap “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you liked most about this particular episode or how you find my podcast helpful, valuable, insightful, or inspiring in some way.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Community Impact: The Power of Giving Circles

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 07:15:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered how you can make an even bigger impact in your community? 🤔 Or how everyday people like you and me can become catalysts for change in our communities?

In my latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, we delve into the world of giving circles with Emily Rasmussen, the founder of Grapevine. We explore how giving circles are reshaping philanthropy, fostering community, democratizing giving, and amplifying the impact of small nonprofits.

Tune in to discover:

The transformative impact of giving circles on nonprofits and communities.
Strategies for overcoming challenges in starting and managing a giving circle.
Insights into the future trends of philanthropy and the role of giving circles.

Listen now and join the movement of meaningful giving!

Don't forget to share this episode with fellow fundraisers and nonprofit leaders. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change. 🌍

With heaps of gratitude, Tammy

Guest: Emily Rasmussen, Founder & CEO, Grapevine

Resources: Show notes, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

The Transformative Power of Immersive Storytelling

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 12:15:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered how immersive storytelling can elevate your fundraising efforts? Join me in an inspiring conversation with the brilliant Shanon Doolittle and the amazing Chris Davenport, founders of the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, as we explore the transformative power of storytelling in the nonprofit sector.

In this episode, we delve into:

How to evoke emotions and drive action through storytelling.
Strategies for creating unforgettable donor experiences
How to tap into the heart of your donors through storytelling

Don't miss out on these invaluable insights! Listen to the episode now and discover how storytelling can take your fundraising to the next level. Share this episode with your network, and let's create meaningful change together!

With boundless gratitude, Tammy

Guests:

Shanon Doolittle, Founder & Co-Producer, Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

Chris Davenport, Founder & Executive Producer, Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

Resources: Show notes, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Community Catalysts: Inspiring Change with Floyd Jones

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 07:15:00 -0400

Ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of fundraising? 🤔

In my latest podcast episode, I sit down with the incredible Floyd Jones to unpack the transformative power of community-driven philanthropy. From grassroots movements to global impact, Floyd shares his journey, insights, and strategies for success.

Tune in to discover:

The art of mobilizing communities for growth.
How to amplify diverse voices in philanthropy.
Strategies for creating lasting impact in fundraising.

Don't miss out on this empowering conversation! Listen now and share with fellow fundraisers and nonprofit leaders. Together, let's change the world, one community at a time.

With heaps of gratitude,

Tammy

Guest: Floyd Jones, Director of Community & Partnerships, Givebutter

Resources: Show notes, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Building Bridges: Connecting Passion and Fundraising

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 10:45:00 -0400

Ever wondered how to infuse passion into your fundraising efforts? In the latest episode of the Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I sit down with amazing Jeff Spitko and brilliant Laura Rice from the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

We dive deep into the heart of fundraising, unraveling the secrets of storytelling, donor engagement, passion-driven campaigns, and narratives that resonate, building authentic connections with donors and infusing passion into every aspect of your mission.

In this episode, you'll discover:

The power of storytelling in capturing donors' hearts and minds.
How data analysis, segmentation, and personalization is the game-changer.
Strategies for building authentic connections with supporters and stakeholders.
Insights into leveraging emerging technologies and trends in fundraising.

Don't keep this gem to yourself – share it with fellow fundraisers and nonprofit leaders who are ready to connect passion and fundraising to take their fundraising to new heights!

With boundless gratitude, Tammy

Guests:

Laura Rice, Senior Director of Sustaining Philanthropy, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Jeff Spitko, Director of Membership & Audience Management, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Resources: Here are the show notes, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Unleashing the Power of Infectious Generosity with Chris Anderson

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 09:30:00 -0400

Ever felt the impact of generosity? Imagine if millions embraced it as cool and uplifting. In my recent podcast episode with Chris Anderson, Head of TED, we explore how kindness can transform lives. 🌍

Join the infectious generosity movement! Chris shares insights, wisdom from philanthropy, and strategies for fundraisers. You'll learn the power of audacious asks, creative fundraising, and the joy of giving. It's a journey to deeper meaning and happiness.

Listen now and discover how to make your impact more significant. Share this episode with fellow fundraisers – together, we can create a ripple effect of generosity!

Guest: Chris Anderson, Head of TED, TED Conferences

Resources: Show notes, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Unlocking the Secrets of Nonprofit Marketing Success

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 07:15:00 -0400

Have you ever wondered what sets successful nonprofit organizations apart from the rest? Why do some nonprofits seem to effortlessly raise funds and engage their communities while others struggle to make an impact?

Recently, I had the privilege of engaging in a thought-provoking conversation with the brilliant Noah Barnett on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast. We explored the transformative power of effective storytelling, collaboration, and trust-building in nonprofit marketing and fundraising.

In this juicy episode, we explore:

The rise of earned attention in the digital age.
The power of authentic brand storytelling.
The importance of collaboration for impact.

You'll walk away with practical insights on creating meaningful connections and driving impactful change. As you embark on transforming your marketing and fundraising strategies, consider this episode a compass guiding you through uncharted territories.

Guest: Noah Barnett, VP of Marketing, Feathr

Resources: Show notes, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Elevate Your Fundraising Game with Fractional Expertise

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 07:15:00 -0400

Ever felt stuck in the scarcity mindset of nonprofit fundraising? I get it. That's why I had the incredible Cindy Wagman on The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast to discuss the revolutionary concept of fractional fundraising.

In this episode, we explore how fractional fundraising breaks traditional molds and boosts nonprofit capacity. Cindy shares valuable insights, from finding the right consultant to transforming your fundraising strategy. We delve into real success stories and learn why embracing a new approach can lead to substantial growth.

Listen in and discover how to shake off the "shoulds" of fundraising, leverage expertise affordably, and propel your mission forward.

With heaps of gratitude, Tammy Zonker

ps – Share this episode with your fellow changemakers! 🌟

Guest: Cindy Wagman, President, Cindy Wagman Consulting

Show Notes: https://bit.ly/42rwFU5

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Six Steps to Creating A Successful Fundraising Plan in 2024

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0400

As we dive into 2024, have you ever wondered how to turn your fundraising goals into an unstoppable force? Join me on the first episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast in 2204.

Ever felt lost in the fundraising mountain? I get it. In this episode, I share my 6-step framework that transformed my nonprofit's fundraising, tripling results and sculpting a lasting legacy. Discover how to assess your donor data, amplify successes, retire what's not working, and more.

Listen in to unleash a transformative journey where passion meets strategic analysis. Tune in now and sculpt your legacy.

Here's what you'll learn:

Assessing your donor data like a seasoned explorer.
Amplifying successes for scalable victories.
Crafting a living, breathing plan for sustained success.

Don't miss out! Hit play, and let's conquer fundraising peaks together.

Click to learn more about The Intentional Fundraising Plan 6-Week Masterclass.

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

Transform Your Fundraising with Visual Storytelling

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Ever wondered about the magic behind impactful storytelling in fundraising? In my latest episode on The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, we dive deep into incredible insights from my conversation with Natalie Monroe from MemoryFox.

We explore how visual storytelling can revolutionize your engagement strategies. Want a sneak peek? We discuss ethical storytelling, diverse perspectives, and the art of dazzling donors.

Listen in and discover how to make your stories resonate, engage your community, and elevate your impact. Tune in now and unleash the power of intentional visual storytelling.

Guest: Natalie Monroe, Community Engagement, MemoryFox

Show Notes: https://bit.ly/48sOvrx

The Intentional Fundraising Plan 6-Week Masterclass: https://bit.ly/47fNH90

See Privacy Policy at https://www.fundraisingtransformed.com/policies

From Volunteer to Donor: The Super Supporter

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Ever felt the magic when volunteers become not just supporters but super supporters? 🌟 We've got something special for you in our latest podcast episode with Josh Meyer, VP of Demand Generation at Bloomerang.

Dive into the secrets of creating a strong connection between volunteers and donors. Ready to uncover the transformative power within your fundraising strategy? Listen now to supercharge your impact Get ready to unlock the Super Supporter Cycle and take your fundraising to new heights!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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Hard Asks Made Easy

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Have you ever found yourself hesitating to ask for what you truly want or need? Maybe it's a career opportunity, support in challenging times, or even a simple favor. The power of asking is a skill that transcends personal and professional realms, and in this blog post, we're diving deep into the art of asking with the incredible Laura Fredricks. Laura is not just a fundraising expert but a beacon of wisdom when it comes to the transformative nature of asking.

Don't miss out! 🎧✨

With boundless gratitude,

Tammy Zonker

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Hard Asks Made Easy: How to Get Exactly What You Want by Laura Fredricks JD

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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Transform Your Donor Engagement Through Text Messaging

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:45:00 -0400

Imagine a world where your nonprofit's message resonates instantly, mobilizing supporters and driving real impact. In our latest podcast episode, I had an inspiring conversation with James Martin, CEO of Rally Corp, on how text messaging can revolutionize donor engagement.

Listen now and discover the secrets to compelling storytelling, the myths of texting donors debunked, and innovative strategies that have raised over a million dollars for nonprofits. 🌟

Don't miss out on transforming your nonprofit's reach and impact. Tune in to this episode today!

With tons of gratitude,

Tammy Zonker

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Creating Constellations of Stories

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Ever wondered how to make your nonprofit storytelling truly compelling? In our latest episode, I sit down with the brilliant Jen Love to explore the art of emotional storytelling in fundraising.

Listen in as we discuss creating constellations of stories, embracing curiosity, and finding joy in the world of fundraising.

Don't miss out on this insightful conversation! Click on the link below, hit play, grab your favorite beverage, and let's dive into the world of transformative storytelling.

Here's to making an impact that goes beyond dollars!

With tons of gratitude,

Tammy Zonker

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Creative Deviations:: how you can infuse your storytelling, fundraising and direct response with more creativity by John Lepp

Fundraising for Introverts: Harnessing Our Powers for What Matters by Brian Saber

Microsoft Word

Hemingway App

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

Fundraising Everywhere

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Power of AI in Fundraising: A Conversation with Cherian Koshy

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:15:00 -0400

Ready to take your fundraising game to the next level? In my latest episode on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, we dive deep into the dynamic world of fundraising with the brilliant Cherian Koshy.

Discover how artificial intelligence (AI) and emotional storytelling are reshaping donor connections and revolutionizing the way nonprofits engage with supporters to maximize impact.

🔍 Tune in now to discover the secrets of AI, authentic connections, and ethical engagement.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

iWave

Episode 13: Fundraising In A Challenging Economy

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

NIO Summit

AFP Icon

Blindsight: The (Mostly) Hidden Ways Marketing Reshapes Our Brains by Matt Johnson PhD & Prince Ghuman

fireflies.ai

Akko

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Unveiling the Power of Purposeful Storytelling with Kristin Sukraw

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 13:30:00 -0400

I am beyond thrilled to share the latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast with you. I recently had an inspiring conversation with the incredible Kristin Sukraw, author of StoryFind, where we dove deep into the art of purposeful storytelling for nonprofits.

Let me tell you, this episode is a game-changer! Kristin, a seasoned expert in storytelling, shares her insights on finding and sharing compelling stories that resonate deeply with your audience. The magic lies not just in the story itself but in the intention behind it.

Are you ready to transform your nonprofit storytelling? Are you eager to learn the art of "StoryFind" and unleash the full potential of your organization's narrative?

Listen to the full episode now and embark on a journey to become a purposeful storyteller.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

StoryFind: The Handbook for Finding and Telling Your Nonprofit's Most Impactful Stories by Kristin Sukraw

BE SEEN: Find Your Voice. Build Your Brand. Live Your Dream. by Jen Gottlieb

DipJar

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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The Neuroscience of Fundraising Love

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 07:15:00 -0400

We have a remarkable new podcast episode you won't want to miss! Dr. Paul Zak, a renowned neuroscientist, joins us to discuss the transformative power of love, immersion, and authenticity in fundraising. Get ready to discover the science behind creating extraordinary donor experiences and how it can impact your fundraising efforts.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and learn how to revolutionize your fundraising approach by understanding the core principles of immersion.

Listen to this episode now. You don't want to miss out on this eye-opening discussion!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Immersion: The Science of the Extraordinary and the Source of Happiness by Paul J. Zak

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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New Research: The State of Capital Campaigns

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 07:15:00 -0400

I wanted to share some exciting news with you! Our latest podcast episode dives deep into the realm of capital campaigns, debunking myths and uncovering extraordinary insights that will transform the way you perceive these fundraising efforts.

In this episode, we sit down with Steven Shattuck, an expert in nonprofit fundraising, as he presents groundbreaking research on the state of capital campaigns. Beyond just fundraising figures, this conversation reveals the hidden gems, the unexpected successes, and the myths shattered by empirical data.

Don't miss out on this eye-opening discussion. Tune in to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast and discover the secrets to successful capital campaigns that extend far beyond just fundraising numbers. Trust me; this episode is a game-changer!

Listen to the episode and equip yourself with the knowledge that will revolutionize your approach to fundraising!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The State of Capital Campaigns 2023 by Capital Campaign Pro

WOC Symposium 2023

A Brave Space for Black Fundraisers: A PATH TO ACTION 2023 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences by Nancy Duarte

slide:ology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations

Robots Make Bad Fundraisers: How Nonprofits Can Maintain the Heart in the Digital Age by Steven Shattuck

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Fearless Fundraising & Leadership Lessons

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Ready to supercharge your nonprofit leadership and fundraising skills? Join me in our latest podcast episode where I chat with Steve Johns, the CEO of OneCause. We explore the power of fearless fundraising, the significance of building lasting donor relationships, and the inspiring journey of resilience.

Listen to the full episode now.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a true leader who's been through the mud and emerged as a lotus.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Fearless: Leadership Lessons at the Crossroads by Steve Johns

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz

Raise: The Event Fundraising Conference

NIO Summit

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ONLINE

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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Fundraising for Introverts

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 13:00:00 -0400

I recently had the incredible opportunity to chat with the brilliant Brian Saber on #TheIntentionalFundraiser #podcast.

We covered topics ranging from the power of listening in fundraising to the art of building lasting relationships and even delved into the unique strengths of introverted fundraisers.

The episode is packed with valuable insights, personal anecdotes, and a few surprises. Whether you're a seasoned fundraising pro or just starting on your fundraising journey, I promise there's something here for you.

So grab your headphones, your notepad, and prepare to be inspired by Brian's wisdom. Remember, we're all on this fundraising journey together, and every bit of knowledge can help us make a more significant impact on the world.

With gratitude,

Tammy Zonker

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Fundraising for Introverts: Harnessing Our Powers for What Matters by Brian Saber

Engaged Boards Will Fundraise! by Michael Davidson and Brian Saber

Boards and Asking Styles: A Roadmap to Success by Brian Saber

Asking Styles: Revolutionize Your Fundraising by Brian Saber

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain

Conversations with Jerry & Brian

Find Your Asking Style Quiz

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Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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Mastering the Art of Telefundraising

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:45:00 -0400

In our latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Martina Naradova, an expert in telefundraising hailing from the Czech Republic. Martina's journey from a frontline caller to a donor care coordinator is truly inspiring, and her insights into the world of telefundraising are invaluable for fundraisers of all levels.

Martina shares her secrets to effective telefundraising, emphasizing the importance of empathy, patience, and a strong mindset. Her experience demonstrates that telefundraising can lead to higher donor retention rates and long-lasting relationships with supporters.

But it's not just about making calls; Martina stresses the significance of building connections and promoting your telefundraising successes within your organization. It's a powerful fundraising method that can revolutionize your approach.

Don't miss the opportunity to learn from Martina Naradova's expertise. Tune in to the podcast episode now and discover the art of telefundraising!

With gratitude,

Tammy Zonker

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Save Food

Animal Freedom

Amnesty International

Darujme - Solution and a platform for online giving in the Czech Republic

CEE Fundraising Conference

Leaders of Tomorrow

Western Canadian Fundraising Conference

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Elevate Your Nonprofit: Building a Next Level Organization

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Looking to take your nonprofit to the next level? 🚀 In our latest episode on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, we delve into the revolutionary "Next Level Nonprofit Operating System" with expert insights from Chris Lambert and yours truly.

Discover how to achieve team unity, develop a clear strategic plan, and unlock your organization's full potential. Don't miss out on these game-changing strategies!

Tune in now to learn how you can elevate your nonprofit's impact and be a part of transformative change.

Don't miss out on my insightful conversation with Chris Lambert. Your nonprofit's next level awaits!

🎧 Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Next Level Nonprofit: Build A Dream Team + Increase Lasting Impact by Dr. Chris Lambert

Next Level Nonprofit

Life Remodeled

Death by Meeting: A Leadership Fable about Solving the Most Painful Problem in Business by Patrick Lencioni

The Generosity Network: New Transformational Tools for Successful Fund-Raising by Jennifer McCrea & Jeffrey C. Walker

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Heart-Centered Fundraising: Make Friends First – Ask Later

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Hey fundraisers and nonprofit leaders!

I'm thrilled to bring you a brand new episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast that's all about fostering authentic connections and embracing heart-centered fundraising.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Gail Perry of the Gail Perry Group. Get ready to dive into the world of porch parties, friend-raising, and creating lasting relationships.

Discover how to:

✨ Host the ultimate porch party event to engage potential donors

✨ Build trust and relationships before making an ask

✨ Craft compelling testimonies and visionary leader speeches

✨ Navigate the art of Q&A to keep your programs snappy and engaging

Join us as we explore the power of making friends first and asking later in the world of fundraising. Tune in now and learn from two industry experts who are passionate about creating a positive impact through genuine connections.

Stay intentional and keep making a difference!

🎧 Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

World’s Largest Porch Party! Sign-up Page

World’s Largest Porch Party! Videos

Fired-Up Fundraising: Turn Board Passion Into Action by Gail Perry

AFP Icon

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Building a Robust Fundraising Engine: Strategies for Nonprofit Leaders

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 07:15:00 -0400

I hope this email finds you in good health and high spirits. As the host of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, it brings me immense joy to connect with dedicated fundraisers and nonprofit leaders like you, who are working tirelessly to make the world a more just and equitable place.

In our recent episode, we had the privilege of interviewing the incredible Brooke Richie-Babbage, a seasoned nonprofit leader and social entrepreneur with over 23 years of experience. Brooke is the founder and CEO of Bending Arc, a social impact strategy and digital content firm that partners with nonprofit leaders and philanthropic institutions to launch and scale high-impact nonprofits. She is also the host of the Nonprofit Mastermind podcast and serves as the Director of the Social Justice Accelerator at the Urban Justice Center and the NetLab Initiative at the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation.

During our conversation with Brooke, we delved deep into the core elements of a robust fundraising engine and explored strategies to attract and engage donors effectively. She shared invaluable insights on the importance of aligning your organization's strategic vision with its fundraising efforts and offered practical advice on how to cut through the chaos that often surrounds nonprofit leadership.

Brooke's wisdom and expertise are not to be missed, especially as we approach the fourth quarter, a crucial time for fundraising. Her tips on building relationships, focusing on cultivation, and practicing time-blocking will undoubtedly help you navigate these challenges with confidence and purpose.

Feel free to share this episode with your fellow fundraisers and nonprofit peers, as we believe that together, we can amplify our impact and create positive change in the world.

As always, we deeply appreciate your support and dedication to the nonprofit sector. If you have any questions or suggestions for future podcast episodes, don't hesitate to reach out. We value your feedback and are committed to bringing you the most valuable content possible.

Thank you for being an integral part of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast community. Together, we will continue to uplift and empower one another to achieve transformative fundraising success.

Wishing you a successful and fulfilling fundraising journey ahead!

Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Nonprofit Mastermind Podcast

Superfans: The Easy Way to Stand Out, Grow Your Tribe, and Build a Successful Business by Pat Flynn

Raise More Together Conference

ChatGPT (OpenAI)

Punkpost

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Power of Passion and Empathy in Nonprofit Leadership

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 14:15:00 -0400

I had a bit of a revelation recently. I was talking to Justin Yaassoub, a man who knows a thing or two about leadership. It was one of those conversations that make you sit up and take notice. Justin went from a military background to the world of consulting and coaching, but not before experiencing a pivotal moment during a 300-kilometer canoe trip. Waking up cold, wet, and probably a tad miserable after a downpour, he saw one of his peers greet the day with unbridled positivity. That was a game-changer, a moment that embodied the power of controlling emotions and turning seemingly worst-case scenarios into positive experiences. A lesson about empathy, courage, and self-sacrifice that's stuck with him ever since.

Now, Justin is using that perspective to shape his leadership philosophy. He's all about authenticity, consistent behavior toward staff, and most importantly, setting conditions for their success, and ultimately, the success of the organization. And he's got a lot to share.

On The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, Justin shared some invaluable insights that can really shift the way you look at leadership. He talked about the profound impact of passion, empathy, courage, and self-sacrifice on leadership and reaching the zenith of perfection. He discussed the significance of self-awareness and inculcating healthy self-competition for enhancing personal growth and development. He also stressed how leading change with passion and a deep-seated sense of empathy can stir up powerful transformation and forge connections.

But that's not all.

He talked about the pivotal role of empathy and connection in leading effectively, underscoring that every endeavor boils down to human connection and how empathy fuels action and bravery. Especially in the not-for-profit sector, authenticity, and empathy are crucial.

Justin's rich insights and unique approach to leadership might just be the catalyst you need to embrace your passion, embody empathy, and muster the courage to be an integral part of your leadership journey.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Intelligent Conversationalist: 31 Cheat Sheets That Will Show You How to Talk to Anyone About Anything, Anytime by Imogen Lloyd Webber

Western Canada Fundraising Conference

Tony Myers

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Unleashing the Power of Innovation in Fundraising Strategies

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 07:15:00 -0400

ENROLL IN THE INTENTIONAL FUNDRAISING PLAN MASTERCLASS. DOORS CLOSE FRIDAY, JULY 14!

I remember, years ago, I was just starting out in the industry, working long hours and constantly seeking new ways to inspire potential donors. The world was a different place back then, technology was more of a luxury and the tools we leaned on were pretty traditional.

Recently, I reconnected with a quote by George Bernard Shaw:

"Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything."

It made me think about the drastic evolution that fundraising has undergone over the past years, and more importantly, how we as fundraising professionals need to constantly adapt and innovate to stay relevant.

Enter Charlotte Keen, a trailblazer in the evolving landscape of fundraising. Our conversation was a breath of fresh air, as she shared some revolutionary ideas and practices that are reshaping the world of fundraising. And let me tell you, if you're involved in fundraising in any capacity, this is one conversation you don't want to miss.

Does it sound familiar, being so absorbed in your work that you sometimes forget to step back and examine the bigger picture? The advancements, the technology, the new ideas? I get it. But, the insight Charlotte has to offer is a game changer.

This week on our podcast, we delve into the future of fundraising, discussing the latest tools, technologies, and strategies that can take your fundraising efforts to a whole new level.

So, are you ready to step into the future of fundraising? Take a listen to this riveting conversation.

Wishing you successful fundraising,

Tammy Zonker

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Comic Relief

Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger

Meta Ads Library

Chartered Institute of Fundraising

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Linkedin / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Building & Scaling Your Legacy Giving Program

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 07:15:00 -0400

As fundraisers, we know that navigating the challenges of legacy giving can be difficult. We also know monthly givers have the highest potential and probability of making legacy gifts.

In this episode, Lynne Boardman and I delve into not just the how, but the why and the what of legacy giving. Lynne shares her valuable insights and practical advice on how to make legacy giving an integral part of your fundraising strategy.

You'll learn about the potential pitfalls, the surefire strategies, and most importantly, how to sustain and grow your legacy program. So, if you've ever struggled with legacy giving, or felt overwhelmed by it, this episode is a must-listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Raise & Shine The Podcast

The Healthy Nonprofit: Inspirational Thoughts on Leadership, Purpose and Success by Harvey McKinnon

Western Canada Fundraising Conference (WCFC)

Gryphon Fundraising

CanadaHelps

Giving USA

The 7 Habits of Happy Kids by Sean Covey

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ONLINE

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Bloomerang

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

iWave

For more than three decades, iWave has been aggregating wealth, philanthropic, and biographic data and turning it into the actionable intelligence that fundraising teams need to learn more about their donors, raise more money and maximize their impact.

Learn more about iWave.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Unleashing The Power of Communication in Your Nonprofit

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Understanding the power of words in the social sector is crucial for nonprofit organizations. Choosing and using the right language in communications can mean the difference between engaging supporters or repelling them.

A strong message not only gets noticed but also deepens connections with audiences and propels them to take action, ultimately leading to increased revenue and greater impact. It is essential for non-profit leaders to appreciate the energetic impact of words and harness their potential to shape beliefs and actions.

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, Erica Barnhart and I talk about the significance of combining the familiar with the novel in language usage. By crafting messages that resonate with the audience's reticular activating system, organizations can increase their potential for understanding and mobilizing support for their cause. Being mindful of word choice helps non-profits create grooves in people's minds, allowing them to better communicate their mission and connect with their audience effectively.

Erica emphasizes the importance of clear and concise messaging. With tailored communication strategies, #nonprofits can increase engagement, revenue, and impact.

Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Pitchfalls: why bad pitches happen to good people by Erica Mills Barnhart by Erica Mills

Recharge: Energize your employees one word at a time

Great Mission. Bad Statement.

Free DIY Resources from Claxon

A More Beautiful Question: The Power of Inquiry to Spark Breakthrough Ideas by Warren Berger

Leadership and the New Science: Discovering Order in a Chaotic World by Margaret J. Wheatley

My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem

Communicate for Good Podcast

The Wordifier

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Strengthening Your Board Engagement

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 17:00:00 -0400

Join me as I chat with Andy Robinson to unlock the secrets to balancing personal talents and organizational requirements for a high-performance board on the latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

My special guest is Andy Robinson

Get to know Andy Robinson, an accomplished trainer, consultant, and author whose mission is to guide nonprofit organizations in the areas of board development and effective fundraising. Through his dedication to the nonprofit sector, he has led over 150 online meetings, webinars, and workshops since March 2020, adapting to the new normal in a post-pandemic world.

As a testament to his expertise, Andy has published six books that provide invaluable insights to nonprofit boards, such as Train Your Board (and Everyone Else) to Raise Money, and his latest work, What Every Board Member Needs to Know, Do, and Avoid. Based in Plainfield, Vermont, Andy continues to make a difference in the nonprofit community through his innovative approach to board development and fundraising.

In this episode:

Gain insights into enhancing your nonprofit's capabilities and fundraising prowess for greater impact.
Realize the power of engaging board members in fundraising initiatives to assure a nonprofit's success.
Find out the importance of equipping board members with proper training and fostering active participation.
Recognize the benefits of harmonizing individual strengths and nonprofits' demands for a high-performance board.
Dive into the essentials of collaborative decision-making and well-trained facilitators in achieving fundraising goals.

You don't wanna miss this juicy conversation! Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Train Your Board (and Everyone Else) to Raise Money by Andy Robinson & Andrea Kihlstedt

What Every Board Member Needs to Know, Do, and Avoid by Andy Robinson

Facilitator's Guide to Participatory Decision-Making by Sam Kaner

Alliance for Nonprofit Management

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Song of Significance with Seth Godin

Tue, 30 May 2023 07:15:00 -0400

In my latest podcast episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with the brilliant Seth Godin about the importance of nurturing a valuable atmosphere within nonprofit organizations.

When it comes to building a thriving nonprofit, it's crucial to focus on creating a culture of significance. By embracing transparency, empathy, and open communication, we can foster an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to make real change.

This approach also extends to our interactions with donors, who are seeking to engage with organizations that share their values and make a genuine impact.

Seth shares that leaders should prioritize creating a sense of belonging, connection, and meaning within their organization, focusing on opening doors and opportunities for employees and donors. By doing so, a nonprofit can ensure that each team member feels supported in reaching their potential and making the impact they desire.

In this juicy episode, we talk about:

Cultivating a meaningful environment for all involved in nonprofit organizations.
Implementing techniques for genuine and empathetic connections with employees and donors.
Refining clarity and openness in your organization's communication.
Welcoming innovation and adaptation within nonprofit endeavors.
Fostering a heartfelt, caring approach to fundraising efforts.

You don't wanna miss this transformational conversation with Seth! Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Song of Significance: A New Manifesto for Teams by Seth Godin

This is Marketing

The Practice

Let's Get Real or Let's Not Play: Transforming the Buyer/Seller Relationship by Mahan Khalsa

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Power of Recurring Giving Communities

Fri, 26 May 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Do you want to increase donor loyalty and boost lifetime value? As an Individual Giving Program Manager, building sustainable recurring giving communities is the key. And the solution lies in creating a culture of giving that fosters long-term relationships with your donors.

With this approach, you can achieve higher donor retention rates and maximize lifetime value, all while making a positive impact. Join me as I share the secrets to building successful recurring giving communities that can drive your organization's growth and success.

In this episode, I talk about:

Uncovering the immense impact of recurring giving programs on fundraising triumphs.
Delving into the psychological aspects of belonging that form a profound donor experience.
Mastering the art of building and fortifying recurring giving communities for long-term stability.
Establishing meaningful social bonds and trust in your recurring giving communities.
Curating an enticing engagement calendar and distinct branding for your recurring giving initiatives.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Harnessing the Power of Hybrid Events to Build Community and Raise Money

Wed, 17 May 2023 07:15:00 -0400

I loved speaking with Kristin Steele and Samantha Swaim on this week’s episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Inclusion is the cornerstone of successful fundraising. The power of hybrid events lies in their ability to bring together diverse communities by fostering inclusivity and emotional connections with donors and creating engaging experiences that drive fundraising results.

One of my favorite parts was this:

When Kristin and Samantha first realized the potential of hybrid events, it was like a breath of fresh air in the world of fundraising. As they saw the world rapidly adapting to the challenges brought on by the Pandemic, they knew that the way people gathered and connected needed to change as well. For them, hybrid events were more than just a trendy idea, they were the key to creating inclusive and accessible experiences that aligned with the missions of countless organizations.

Do you want to expand your nonprofit's reach and create a more inclusive and engaging event experience – and raise more money? Listen in as Kristin and Samantha share the solution to achieving diversity and active involvement through hybrid events.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Planning a Successful Major Donor Event

The Storytelling Animal: How Stories Make Us Human by Jonathan Gottschall

The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

The Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

Elevate

CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS ONLINE

Kristin Steele: Linkedin / Twitter / Facebook / Website / Email

Samantha Swaim: Linkedin / Twitter / Facebook / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Mastering Mindset for Fundraising Success

Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400

Rhea Wong, a successful fundraiser and passionate advocate for changing mindsets, found herself in a challenging situation when she first became an executive director. With no prior knowledge, she began her journey by learning everything she could about fundraising, only to discover that psychological aspects were missing from the teachings. Reflecting on her upbringing and the scarcity mindset she had inherited from her family, Rhea realized that her own fear of asking for support was holding her back. Committed to overcoming her own barriers and helping others do the same, Rhea now emphasizes the importance of examining one's relationship with money and the role mindset plays in successful fundraising.

Discover the psychological aspect of fundraising with Rhea Wong as she shares her personal journey of overcoming a scarcity mindset, and offers practical tips to manage your brain and upgrade your money operating system to achieve fundraising success.

In this episode, we delve into:

Understanding how nurturing the right mindset and implementing smart systems set the foundation for fundraising success.
Developing adaptable fundraising tactics that encourage task delegation, maximizing productivity.
Concentrating on mending donor retention leaks to foster a solid sense of trust in your cause.
Connecting on an emotional level with potential donors, tapping into their core motivations to give.
Maintaining a positive, fun attitude toward fundraising, making it an engaging and worthwhile endeavor.

My special guest is Rhea Wong

Rhea Wong is a renowned fundraising expert, author, and podcast host with a passion for helping nonprofits establish individual giving programs. With years of experience in institutional, corporate, and event fundraising, Rhea has raised millions of dollars for various causes. She has become a leader in the New York nonprofit community, earning recognition through the Smart CEO Brava Award in 2015 and the New York Nonprofit Media's 40 Under 40 in 2017. Rhea is also the host of the popular podcast the Nonprofit Lowdown and author of Get That Money, Honey! When she's not busy raising funds, Rhea enjoys trying her hand at stand-up comedy in downtown Brooklyn.

From a fear of asking for support to empowering others, Rhea Wong's journey in fundraising has an unexpected twist that will leave you inspired and motivated. But what was the key to her success? Find out as we delve into the mindset-changing story of this passionate advocate for nonprofit organizations.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Get That Money, Honey!: The No-Bullsh*t Guide to Raising More Money For Your Nonprofit by Rhea Wong

Nonprofit Lowdown Podcast

Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman

1,000 True Fans by Kevin Kelly

You're Invited: The Art and Science of Connection, Trust, and Belonging by Jon Levy

This Is Marketing: You Can't Be Seen Until You Learn to See by Seth Godin

Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer

Inside the Mind of a Curious Chameleon

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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Breaking the Stigma: Mental Wellness in the Fundraising Profession with Ian Adair

Wed, 03 May 2023 07:15:00 -0400

When Ian Adair shares his personal experience with mental illness, he realizes the importance of bringing attention to this issue and how it affects individuals across the world. He takes a stand against the stigma of mental illness and encourages organizations to support their people.

From an early age, Ian has faced mental health challenges in his family, which shaped his passion for advocating mental health awareness. As he grew older, he discovered the power of sharing his story and connecting with others who faced similar struggles.

Through his professional life, Ian realized the importance of mental health and wellness in the workplace, particularly for fundraisers who are under immense pressure during these uncertain times. The impact of the pandemic on people's mental health became an opportunity for Ian to push for organizations to take better care of their employees and provide the necessary support. By fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, Ian's mission is to ensure that no one has to suffer in silence, fearing the loss of their loved ones, friends, or jobs.

If you're searching for effective ways to improve #mentalhealth and #wellness in your organization, listen in as Ian shares the truth about how #fundraisers and #nonprofit leaders can prioritize mental health to create meaningful change.

#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthMatters #nonprofit #FundraisingSuccess #MoreThanEnough

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

Find Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team by Simon Sinek

7 Lenses: Learning the Principles and Practices of Ethical Leadership by Linda Fisher Thornton

Association of Fundraising Professionals

AFP LEAD

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ONLINE

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Power of Data Metrics and Accountability

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 12:15:00 -0400

Did someone tell you that simply tracking demographics and services provided is enough for your nonprofit's success? Think again!

Developing a data-driven culture in a nonprofit is essential for effective impact measurement. In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, Sheri Chaney Jones highlights the role of leadership and the positive influence of professionals with corporate backgrounds in fostering this culture. By prioritizing impact measurement, organizations can better serve their beneficiaries and impress donors.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Comprehend the crucial role of impact measurement for nonprofits.
Differentiate between outputs and outcomes in organizational success.
Delve into how technology shapes a data-centric organizational culture.
Uncover the relationship between trust-based philanthropy and responsibility.
Identify opportunities for effective partnership and fundraising strategies.

Our special guest is Sheri Chaney Jones

With a wealth of experience in creating positive change through data and measurement, Sheri Chaney Jones is a leading voice in the nonprofit, foundation, and government sectors. As an author, professor, and international expert, Sheri has spent two decades refining her approach to data and impact measurement. She founded Measurement Resources Company in 2010, a national firm dedicated to increasing the capacity of nonprofit and government organizations. Sheri is also deeply committed to women's equity and the advancement of girls, having served as the past president of the Columbus Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners and as a commissioner for the Columbus Women's Commission for the Mayor's office.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Impact & Excellence: Data-Driven Strategies for Aligning Mission, Culture and Performance in Nonprofit and Government Organizations by Sheri Chaney Jones

Leap of Reason: Managing to Outcomes in an Era of Scarcity Paperback by Mario Morino

Nonprofit Technology Conference

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Unlocking Volunteer Power with Geng Wang: Maximize Nonprofit Impact

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Geng Wang, CEO of Civic Champs, is on a mission to help nonprofits maximize their impact by deepening volunteer engagement. With a passion for change-making and a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship, Geng and his team have developed an innovative platform that streamlines the volunteer management experience to help nonprofits save time and reduce manual effort while improving volunteer experiences.

Don't miss my latest podcast episode with Geng, where we uncover how technology can help transform your volunteer management experience and maximize your nonprofit's impact.

Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

7. The Importance of Creating & Maintaining Heart-Centered Connections with Our Donors

Little Green Light

TechSoup Events

Greater Pittsburgh Nonprofit Partnership (GPNP) Events

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ONLINE

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

How Prospect Research Can Help Generate Extraordinary Fundraising Results

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Investing in prospect development is crucial for long-term fundraising success.

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, Regina Alhassan, CEO at ResearchPRO, emphasizes the importance of allocating appropriate resources to prospect research to generate extraordinary fundraising results.

She also shares her insights on connecting donors' values to your mission.

Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

TEDx: Money. Black People. Philanthropy by Regina Alhassan

We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power Hardcover by Rachel Rodgers

Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA)

Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) Body of Knowledge

Ohio Prospect Research Network

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

iWave

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ONLINE

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Find Your Red Thread for Fundraising Success with Tamsen Webster

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 10:15:00 -0400

Building stories that scale ensures they remain flexible and relatable in diverse situations or contexts, thereby fostering a deeper connection with the audience.

This method allows organizations to use tailored messaging while still upholding their core principles.

In my insightful conversation with Tamsen Webster, she emphasizes the importance of scalable stories as a vehicle for maintaining and conveying an organization's core message.

By focusing on adaptability and consistency, Tamsen advocates for narratives that can cater to a particular situation without losing sight of the organization's core principles.

Your red thread ties it all together. Listen now to hone your fundraising messaging strategies!

Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Find Your Red Thread: Make Your Big Ideas Irresistible Paperback by Tamsen Webster

Thinking, Fast and Slow Paperback by Daniel Kahneman

Magic Words: The Science and Secrets Behind Seven Words That Motivate, Engage, and Influence by Tim David

Reinvention Academy, founded by Dr. Nadya Zhexembayeva

EPIC

TED

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ONLINE

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Generosity Crisis – The Case for RADICAL CONNECTION to Solve Humanity's Greatest Challenges

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 07:15:00 -0400

On this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I’m so excited to be talking with Nathan Chappell and Brian Crimmins, two brilliant minds in the nonprofit space, respectively.

As a thought leader, public speaker, author and inventor, Nathan is one of the world’s foremost experts on the intersection between Artificial Intelligence and philanthropy. Nathan is Senior Vice President of DonorSearch AI, leading artificial Intelligence deployments for some of the nation’s largest nonprofit organizations.

Nathan is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and holds a Master’s in Nonprofit Administration from the University of Notre Dame, an MBA from the University of Redlands, a certificate in International Economics from the University of Cambridge and a certificate in Artificial Intelligence from MIT.

Brian is a global leader in social impact, a popular public speaker with the world’s foremost speaking agency, the Washington Speakers Bureau, and CEO of Changing Our World. Through service lines that include strategic planning, fundraising, corporate social engagement (CSR & ESG), research and analytics, and communications, Changing Our World raises billions in support of client causes.

And counseling leading companies and brands to design and implement strategic corporate responsibility programs that deliver social impact while driving business strategy.

Together, they (along with Michael Ashley) are co-authors of The Generosity Crisis: The Case for Radical Connection to Solve Humanity's Greatest Challenges, a thought-provoking exploration of the generosity decline in the U.S. and its impact on nonprofits, individuals and communities.

Through their insightful analysis, Brian and Nathan present a compelling case for adopting a Radical Connection approach, which emphasizes building lasting connections rather than transactional interactions, to reverse this trend.

Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Generosity Crisis Website

Changing Our World, Inc.

DonorSearch AI

Giving USA

Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence by Ajay Agrawal, Joshua Gans, and Avi Goldfarb

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS ONLINE

Connect with Nathan Chappell online

Linkedin / Website / Email

Connect with Brian Crimmins online

Twitter / Linkedin / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Unlocking the Power of Prospect Research with Helen Brown

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 15:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I talk with Helen Brown, President of The Helen Brown Group, a fundraising intelligence consulting firm based in Watertown, Massachusetts.

In 2021 Helen founded DAFinitive™, a research resource for donor-advised funds. Helen is co-author of the book, Prospect Research for Fundraisers; the essential handbook (Wiley).

She is a past board member and longtime volunteer for both Apra (Association of Prospect Researchers for Advancement) and NEDRA (that’s the New England Development Research Association), and a frequent speaker for Apra and its chapters as well as other fundraising professional associations.

Helen is a Special Advisor on Fundraising to the board of The North American Foundation for the University of Manchester, and a Fellow of the Royal Society for Arts & Manufactures (RSA) in London.

Helen received The Ann Castle Award, awarded by New England Development Research Association (NEDRA) for service to the prospect research community in 2006, and the Apra Distinguished Service Award in 2017.

In this episode, we discuss:

What's the impact of prospect research on nonprofits?
The only searchable database to help nonprofit professionals find information about donor-advised funds
What does successful prospect research look like?

We go into a lot more detail in my latest episode, 'Unlocking the Power of Prospect Research with Helen Brown!"

Take a listen.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

DAFinitive

Prospect Research for Fundraisers: The Essential Handbook (AFP) by Jennifer J. Filla and Helen E. Brown

Good Asking: The Role of Research in Efficient, Effective & Enjoyable Fundraising

LexisNexis

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

A Conversation with CNN Hero of the Year, Nelly Cheboi

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I'm excited to talk with Nelly Cheboi, CEO and Founder of TechLit Africa. If her name sounds familiar, it may be because she was recently named CNN Hero of the Year.

Hear about her incredible journey from herding cows as a little girl to leading a nonprofit that brings more Kenyans into the digital economy and developing effective, scalable solutions to poverty.

Nelly’s journey is full of grit, determination, and empathy transforming the lives of youth in rural Africa through her nonprofit TechLit Africa.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

CNN Announces Nelly Cheboi as CNN Hero of the Year

Nominate a CNN Hero

TechLit Africa Blog

You can directly support TechLit Africa through financial or IT donations

The Mom Test: How to talk to customers & learn if your business is a good idea when everyone is lying to you by Rob Fitzpatrick

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ONLINE

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Unstoppable Amy Eisenstein: Unlocking Major Gift Fundraising & Capital Campaign Success

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Amy Eisenstein is a veteran fundraising consultant with over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. She is an ACFRE, published author, keynote speaker, and CEO and co-founder of Capital Campaign Pro.

In this episode, we discuss:

Strategies for effective major gift fundraising even if you don't have an established major gift program
Tips for leveraging virtual tools to boost fundraising efficiency
The importance of being brave and asking for what you need in fundraising

We go into a lot more detail in my latest episode, "Unstoppable Amy Eisenstein: Unlocking Major Gift Fundraising & Capital Campaign Success."

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Train Your Board (and Everyone Else) to Raise Money: A Cookbook of Easy-to-Use Fundraising Exercises by Andrea Kihlstedt and Andy Robinson

50 Asks in 50 Weeks: A Guide to Better Fundraising for Your Small Development Shop by Amy Eisenstein

Major Gift Fundraising for Small Shops: How to Leverage Your Annual Fund in Only Five Hours per Week by Amy Eisenstein

Raising More with Less: An Essential Fundraising Guide for Nonprofit Professionals and Board Members Paperback by Amy Eisenstein

31. The Science of Happiness & Gratitude

Doodle: Free online meeting scheduling tool

AFP ICON

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Creating Equity for LGBTQ+ Fundraisers

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 07:15:00 -0400

I'm excited to welcome Jonathan Meagher-Zayas to the #TheIntentionalFundraiser #podcast!

Jonathon is a self-described Queer Latinx Millennial and a #nonprofit strategist dedicated to addressing equity issues, building capacity, engaging the community, motivating new impact leaders, and getting stuff done. Jonathon is the Owner and Chief Strategist of Equity Warrior Strategies.

In this episode, we talk about how to create equitable change in the #nonprofit sector, foster psychological safety, and embed equity into #fundraising and organizational culture.

Listen in as we discuss this important topic.

LGBTQ+ is an abbreviation for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and/or questioning. The ‘plus’ is used to signify all of the gender identities and sexual orientations that letters and words cannot yet fully describe.

Source: Lesbian & Gay Community Services Center, Inc.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Decolonizing Wealth, Second Edition: Indigenous Wisdom to Heal Divides and Restore Balance Paperback by Edgar Villanueva

Decolonizing Wealth Project

AFP ICON

Racial Equity Tools

Tools to Engage: Resources for Nonprofits, Compiled by the Building Movement Project

The Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Action (IDEA) Resource Hub

AFP IDEA

TED Talks about Disability

Connect with our guest online

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Finding Your Fundraising Joy

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 07:15:00 -0400

I feel so fortunate to have none other than Tony Myers as our guest today on this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast. I’ve been a fan of Tony and his work for many years. Last June I finally met him in person at the Western Canada Fundraising Conference where we were both speaking. And I have to tell you, he’s even more amazing than I expected. He’s so smart, so kind — just an absolute delight.

Tony is passionate about philanthropy, leadership, and major gift fundraising. His approach in all that he does is to listen first, to deeply understand, identify the challenges, and then find a way to work together to meet challenges head-on.

Based in Western Canada, he’s a consultant, strategist, author, speaker, teacher, mentor, and executive coach. He has a lifetime of experience working with leaders on 6 continents, working with small and large nonprofits undergoing change.

Of his many gifts, perhaps his greatest is helping leaders around the world realize their vision and mission. He is internationally recognized for his ability to mold strategic direction, bring about change, develop revenue generation plans, and successfully execute major fundraising programs and campaigns.

As an international consultant, he has, and is currently working in Southeast Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe: Central & Eastern Europe in Particular — speaking, training, consulting, and fundraising. Alongside our mutual friend the incredible Kay Sprinkle Grace.

Tony brings passion, energy, experience, and deep knowledge to his work. And he is the first to tell you that he loves his job. He says he doesn’t really work; he just gets up every morning and goes to “joy”.

Resources mentioned in this episode

The Power of Intention by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer

The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker

International Fundraising Conference (IFC)

Slovak Fundraising Centre

Connect with our guest online

Linkedin / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

How to Tell Powerful Stories Through Video

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 14:00:00 -0400

On this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I’m delighted to be talking with Jason Ellinger of Beard & Bowler Productions.

When asked to describe himself, Jason says first and foremost he’s a husband to his beautiful wife and father to an amazing 2-year-old.

Of secondary importance, he’s co-founder of Beard & Bowler. He is a Commercial Filmmaker. A Magic Maker. Along with his co-founder Matt Carpenter, they help nonprofits raise funds & awareness through the power of storytelling through video.

He has worn all the hats building his business, including an English bowler. And has been privileged to work with an impressive list of organizations. Starting out as a hard-news journalist, fast-forwarding to Beard & Bowler, Jason says the best is yet to come!

I met Jason at the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference last year in San Antonio. We were both speakers. And I was blown away. He’s a phenomenal storyteller. He’s curious, generous, big-hearted, and humble. He’s also hard to miss! This very tall man, with a thick beard, wearing a black bowler hat that exudes the warmest, most inviting energy you’ll ever encounter.

He has dedicated himself to making a positive and lasting ding in the world, through storytelling.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Nonprofit Storytelling Conference

Nonprofit Marketing Summit: The Big Innovation, free, 3-day high-impact virtual event

Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller

Find Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team by Simon Sinek

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Instagram / Facebook / Linkedin / Youtube / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Predictions & Preparations for 2023 Fundraising

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 12:30:00 -0400

There's been a lot of crystal ball gazing lately as many researchers, experts, and thought leaders looking at the economic forecast. Looking at giving USA data research, surveys, and assessing general nonprofit sentiment, trying to predict what 2023 may have in store for the sector and specifically for charitable giving.

I tackled this topic in my live training with members of my Transformers Community last week. That session was titled, "Predictions & Preparations for 2023 Fundraising." I say predictions and preparations for an important reason. It's one thing to predict or anticipate what may likely happen, but those predictions are useless unless we prepare for those likely scenarios.

As Abraham Lincoln once said, "The best way to predict the future is to create it." In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I want to share my five predictions informed by many brilliant minds and bodies of research across the sector. While I took a deeper dive into my live class with members of my Transformers Community, I'll share a lighter version of how we may best prepare for what will likely, probably, and possibly happen. Take a listen.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Donor Advised Fund Search

30. A Conversation with AFP Global's New Board Chair with guest Birgit Burton

17. Philanthropy in Communities of Color with guest Dr. Tyrone McKinley Freeman, Ph.D.

Fundraising Transformers Community of fundraisers and nonprofit leaders

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

Transform23 Highlights, Insights & Takeaways

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:30:00 -0400

One week ago today, on January 25, 2023, the Fundraising Transformed team hosted Transform23 – our first annual Fundraising Transformation Virtual Summit. It was phenomenal. Not flawless, but phenomenal.

My heart is still so very full. In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I want to unpack that experience for you for a number of reasons.

First, there were ten incredible speakers sharing exceptional research, insights, and innovations. I want to share a few of the highlights with you and let you know where you can get free access to a collection of the recordings.
Many of you stayed for the marathon of a day starting at 9 AM and ending at 8:15 PM eastern. Some of you would come-and-go based on your affinity for the speaker and interest in the topic. Some of you attended as you were able, based on your schedule. Some of you just couldn’t attend. Your schedule wouldn’t allow you to participate. Or the time zone didn’t work for you. Or you simply couldn’t get registered. I mean, we only had 1,000 spots available. In fact, so many people reached out after we reached our maximum of a thousand attendees, asking “can you pleeeeeease get me in?” – as a result, we expanded registration to 1,400.
Secondly, I want to unpack Transform23 to give you a glimpse behind the scenes. Just like you with your fundraising events, so often there are unexpected bumps along the way that your guests would never be aware of – and you rose to the occasion.
I want to pull back the curtain and tell you about those unexpected challenges, and how they were eventually resolved by surrounding ourselves with a great community, our collective tenacity, and frankly a lot of grace.
It happens to all of us, and it’s completely survivable. Believe in your ability to figure things out.
And lastly, I have a lot of people to thank. And some additional free resources for you from our incredible speakers and sponsors.

Take a listen.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Join our Transformers community and get free access to the Transform23 collection of recordings and slides

The Executive Summary for ‘Meaningful Philanthropy in the 21st Century: The Role of Self’

Free Digital Copy of Human-Centered Communication

Create a free BombBomb account for nonprofits

Transform23 session notes captured and produced by Charissa Burns Studio.

Book the amazing Dileonte Jones to perform at your next event

Get notified when we open registration for Transform24

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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Good is for Everyone: Corporate Philanthropy Then, Now & Future.

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I'm talking with Rachel Hutchisson, Rachel is a champion for social good.

Rachel is a social impact leader with expertise in strategic communications, philanthropy and ESG (environmental, social and governance).

Until very recently, she served as VP of Global Social Responsibility at Blackbaud, leading the company’s social impact investments and sustainability and helping the company’s 3,300 associates be Agents of Good. A position she recently left.

She’s committed to the core philosophy that “good is for everyone,” being a champion for positive change, and inspiring individuals to integrate service into their personal and professional development.

Rachel brings experience in marketing, brand communications, corporate culture and strategic relationships to her role. She built Blackbaud’s CSR program from the ground up, leveraging her deep experience working at the intersection of business and nonprofits.

She served as the Chair of the Blackbaud’s Senior Women’s Leadership Council, as well as a member of the ESG Steering Committee and the Diversity and Inclusion Council.

She is a Riley Fellow, having attended Furman’s Diversity Leadership Institute, and has participated in both phases of the Racial Equity Institute training, hosted by the YWCA.

She is Past Board Chair of The Giving Institute and serves on the board of Common Impact.

She previously served on the boards of AFP International, the Coastal Community Foundation, the Blackbaud Giving Fund and Learning to Give.

Her Tedx talk “The Era of Corporate Social Responsibility is Ending” is available on the TEDx YouTube channel. We’ll include links in the show notes.

Resources mentioned in this episode

The Generosity Commission

The Generosity Commission Research Reports

The Era of Corporate Social Responsibility is Ending

Six New Rules of Business by Judy Samuelson

AFP International Conference

Blackbaud

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Linkedin

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Case for Crypto: What We Can Learn from Challenging Times

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 07:15:00 -0400

Happy 2023 and welcome back to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast! Today we’re talking with Alex Wilson, Co-Founder of The Giving Block about The Case for Crypto: What we can learn from challenging times.

The Giving Block is the leading Crypto Philanthropy platform that connects nonprofits with crypto donors. Alex oversees The Giving Block’s growth in several areas, including:

technological innovation
crypto and financial partnerships
and institutional giving

I have to give a shout out to Alex and entire team at The Giving Block. They committed in a big way to our Transform23 Virtual Fundraising Summit as our top sponsor.

It’s their transformational sponsorship along with others who enable us to offer ten world-class, expert speakers to you for free. If you haven’t registered yet, and you want to attend, register soon. We only have about a hundred of our 1,000 spots remaining. Mark your calendar for January 25th from 9 AM to 8:15 PM ET. Stay all day (to get maximum benefit) or come and go as you need based on the speaker, topic, and your availability. You can register at fundraisingtransformed.com/transform23. We’ll include that link in the show notes too.

Alex’s background is in management consulting, where he worked with Fortune 500 companies to develop strategies for emerging technologies like AI, IoT, blockchain, and cryptocurrency.

As he went down the cryptocurrency rabbit hole, he and his Co-Founder, Pat Duffy, discovered a need for nonprofits to tap into the growing crypto donor demographic.

Alex graduated from Wake Forest University School of Business, with a bachelor’s degree in Business and Enterprise Management and a concentration in International Business.

Take a listen.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Bitcoin Billionaire by Ben Mezrich

Bitcoin and the Future of Fundraising by Anne Connelly & Jason Shim

Consensus Conference 2023 – April 26-28 Austin Texas

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Linkedin / Website

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THIS PODCAST

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers Community.

The Science of Happiness & Gratitude

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I want to talk with you about gratitude and happiness today. There have been a lot of articles and a couple of great new books published on the topic recently.

Just this week Time magazine published two articles, “The Daily Habits of Happiness Experts” and “How to Make Gratitude Feel Less Like a Chore.”

At the start of the new year just about a week ago, The New York Times issued a 7-day Happiness Challenge to kick off the New Year. Subscribers to their Wellness e-newsletter were invited to sign up for the challenge. They sent one exercise a day to your inbox to cultivate happiness. You’ll find links to these articles and the books I’ll be referencing in the show notes.

And just a few days ago SIMON & SCHUSTER published a book called, “The Good Life: Lessons from the world’s longest scientific study of Happiness” by authors Robert Waldinger, MD and Marc Schulz, Ph.D. It was an 85-year study of the same people. They followed more than 2,000 people, across 2- generations, asking the question what makes people happy? I mean really happy.

We all want to be happy, right? Take a listen.

Resources mentioned in this episode

New York Times 7-Day Happiness Challenge

Time Magazine “How to Make Gratitude Feel Less Like a Chore”

The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Largest Scientific Study of Happiness

Happier Podcast with Gretchen Rubin

The Happiness Project with Gretchen Rubin

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for being a sponsor of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast.

Bloomerang gathers the best tools, resources, and people in a single place and, through its donor management platform, empowers nonprofit organizations like yours to carry out their missions.

Learn how First Tee of Greater Akron doubled its unique donors, improved donor stewardship, and raised more funds in the first year with Bloomerang.

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CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

A Conversation with AFP Global's New Board Chair

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I’m talking with Birgit Burton. I have to say, I love this woman! She’s an incredible human. An enchanting storyteller. And a source of knowledge and inspiration in my life, and I’m so grateful for her.

I have the great privilege of serving as faculty alongside Birgit with the Institute for Charitable Giving. I learn something new every single time I hear her speak or sit down with her over a meal.

Moreover, Birgit is Chair of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Global Board. She has the distinction of being the first African American woman in AFP’s 60-year history to serve in this role.

She is the Founder and Executive Director of African American Development Officers Network (AADO), which she launched at Georgia Tech in 1998 to provide professional development, education, employment support, mentorship, and networking opportunities for African American fundraisers.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Collecting Courage

The Philanthropic Covenant with Black America

Five Minutes for Fundraising

AFP IDEA

Assessment of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Access For Fundraising Professionals

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Instagram / Linkedin / Facebook / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

It's not too early to start developing a strategy for the end of 2022. Give yourself ample time to plan all the elements of your year-end campaign. Campaigns take time. Early planning can benefit your organization and set you up for year-end success.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

How to Be a Good Fundraising Ancestor

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I’m talking with my dear friend Clay Buck about his keynote How to Be a Good Fundraising Ancestor, about the people he met, and why this was such a transformative experience.

Resources mentioned in this episode

The Good Ancestor

Designs for Fundraising

The Spirituality of Fundraising

From Scarcity to Abundance: Mapping the Generosity Eco-System

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Linkedin / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Courageous Discomfort: Conversations About Race and Racism

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I’m talking with the completely marvelous Shanterra McBride, about Courageous Discomfort: Conversations About Race and Racism.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Courageous Discomfort: How to Have Important, Brave, Life-Changing Conversations about Race and Racism

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Instagram / Facebook / Linkedin / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

How to Use Stories to Drive Donor Retention & Authentic Relationships

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 16:30:00 -0400

It’s no secret that we’re big fans of Bloomerang around here. They’re a leading provider of donor management software that helps nonprofits deliver a better giving experience, so they can raise more money and create lasting change.

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I’m talking with James Goalder about How to Use Stories to Drive Donor Retention & Authentic Relationships. James is a Partnership Manager with Bloomerang.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Donor Retention Calculator

Robots Make Bad Fundraisers: How Nonprofits Can Maintain the Heart in the Digital Age

The Nightingale

Episode 7 featuring Steven Shattuck: The Importance of Creating & Maintaining Heart-Centered Connections with Our Donors

Project Grows

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Facebook / Linkedin / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Transform23 because what got us here, won’t get us there.

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 19:45:00 -0400

I'm so excited to talk with you about Transform23 – our Fundraising Transformation Virtual Summit on January 25, 2023!

It's free to attend for fundraisers and nonprofit leaders everywhere!

This is where we'll be laser-focused on bringing you world-renowned experts on giving and donor behavior, researchers, best-selling authors, technology leaders, and innovators. All for one purpose: equipping you to take your fundraising to the next, next level. We believe innovation is the best path forward.

You've probably heard the saying, "What got us here won't get us there." That's why we created Transform23. Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in our communities and around the world.

Join me and our incredible team of visionary speakers and the best sponsors evah to learn how to transform your fundraising in 2023 and beyond!

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game with Hardy Smith

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I’m talking with the one and only Hardy Smith.

Hardy Smith is the author of an Amazon best-selling book, Stop The Nonprofit Board Blame Game. As a consultant and speaker, he works with nonprofits, associations, and chambers of commerce that want to benefit from positive, productive, and fully engaged boards.

Hardy's results-focused approach was developed over a 30-year career in the high-performance world of NASCAR racing. He is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, National Speakers Association, Florida Society of Association Executives, BoardSource, and Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Lastly, Hardy is also a faculty member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Institute for Organization Management.

Listen in as we talk about Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

My Top 5 Insights from Working with Nearly 200 Australian Arts & Culture Fundraising Pros in Five Capital Cities in Ten Days

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0400

In today's episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I'm sharing my top 5 insights from working with nearly 200 Australian Arts & Culture fundraising pros in five capital cities in ten days.

Links mentioned in this episode

Giving Attitude: Private Sector Support Survey 2020 Research Report

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Mindset & Leadership Skills Are Pivotal to Creating Change

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I’m honored to be talking with Jenny Mitchell.

Jenny is an executive coach, speaker, and fundraising professional who helps not-for-profit leaders change the world…one mission at a time!

She has worked with hundreds of CEOs, executive directors, and high-profile board members all across Canada and has helped her clients raise millions of dollars for their missions. She believes that mindset and leadership skills play a pivotal role in our ability to create change on the planet.

Jenny is also the host of the Underdog Leadership Podcast and co-host of Your Next 50 Podcast dedicated to helping (we) more mature women make our next 50 years the most abundant and impactful ever! Take a listen.

Links mentioned in this episode

Underdog Leadership Podcast

Your Next 50 Podcast

Book mentioned in this episode

Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It

Connect with our guest online

Twitter / Instagram / Facebook / Linkedin / Website / Email

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

The Power of Asking for Help

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I’m delighted to be talking with a woman I have admired for a very long time, Andrea Kihlstedt.

Quite literally Andrea wrote THE book on capital campaigns. She’s the author of Capital Campaigns: Strategies that Work, now in its 4th edition. She’s been leading successful capital campaigns for more than 30 years.

She’s also the author of How to Raise $1 Million (or More) in 10 Bite-Sized Steps, and several other great books about fundraising and board development.

Andrea co-founded Capital Campaign Masters and the Capital Campaign Toolkit, along with Amy Eisenstein. I’m very proud to have recently joined Capital Campaign Toolkit as an Advisor, in addition to the portfolio of work I do through my company, Fundraising Transformed.

I could go on and on about this incredible woman…but I want you to hear from her! Take a listen.

Links mentioned in this episode

Capital Campaign Toolkit

Gestalt International Study Center

Book mentioned in this episode

Capital Campaigns: Strategies that work by Andrea Kihlstedt

How to Raise $1 Million (Or More!) in 10 Bite-sized Steps: A Failproof Guide for Board Members, Volunteers and Staff

A Gentleman in Moscow

Connect with our guest online

Linkedin / Website

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

The How & Why of Using Artificial Intelligence in Your Nonprofit

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I’m delighted to be talking with Michael Gorriarán (Gorr-rea-RON). Michael is the President of Arjuna Solutions.

They are an artificial intelligence technology company, that enables nonprofits to meet their donors where they are:

To gain insights into donor sentiment and affinity based on their behaviors
And then ensuring this knowledge is directly translated, so you can ask for the right gift value, for the right impact area, at the right time.
Helping us raise more money, at a lower cost, and saving us precious time.

Prior to joining Arjuna Solutions, Michael served in executive roles in the global technology sector for more than 30 years, with companies like Microsoft, Xerox, and other early-stage, high-growth business ventures.

Michael holds an MBA from the J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University, and a bachelor’s degree in Marketing, with concentrated studies in Economics and Spanish, from the University of Rhode Island.

He is an avid distance runner, outdoor enthusiast, and active parent of two with his wife Kris. Michael was also the Chairman of the Board of the Oregon Council for Hispanic Advancement.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

Click HERE to access important links and helpful resources mentioned in this episode.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Building a Diverse and Accountable Board

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I'm honored to talk with Christal Cherry, principal and CEO of The Board Pro about Building a Diverse and Accountable Board.

At The Board Pro, they believe that the most successful organizations understand that who's at the top matters.

Christal coaches and trains governing and working boards to harness and optimize their individual and collective talents and resources to truly make an impact in their organizations.

Her speaking topics, training, and consulting services at The Board Pro include board recruitment, governance, fundraising, conflict resolution and diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging.

Before founding The Board Pro, she spent 23 years as a nonprofit fundraiser serving higher education institutions, seminaries, and human service organizations.

Christal has a master's in counseling from Hampton University and a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts from Hampton University. She is also a contributing writer to a profoundly insightful book about anti-black racism in the charitable sector called "Collecting Courage: Joy, Pain, Freedom, Love – Anti-Black Racism in the Charitable Sector."

Her most recent accomplishments include writing a children's book called "Mac and Cheez: Being Different Is Okay" and earning her certification as a Quadrant 3 Leadership Coach.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

Click HERE to access important links and helpful resources mentioned in this episode.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

The Current State of the Fundraising Profession

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 07:15:00 -0400

I’m delighted to be talking with Jason Lewis today on The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast.

Jason Lewis is the founder of Responsive Fundraising, a consultancy committed to creating places where fundraising can thrive.

He’s also the author of “The War for Fundraising Talent,” self-described as an honest yet hopeful critique of contemporary fundraising practices. Jason’s follow-up book, “Why Fundraising Lets Us Down,” is scheduled for release in 2023.

Jason is adjunct faculty at York College of Pennsylvania, teaching nonprofit management, social entrepreneurship, organizational behavior, and small business consulting.

Jason also hosts The Fundraising Talent Podcast, which has been ranked as one of the most popular nonprofit podcasts in the US, UK, and Canada.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

Click HERE to access important links and helpful resources mentioned in this episode.

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Working Remotely, Knowing Your Numbers & Future of Philanthropy

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 09:15:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser, I’m so happy to be talking with my good friend and fellow faculty member at the Institute for Charitable Giving, Shannon Duval about Working Remotely, Knowing Your Numbers, and the Future of Philanthropy.

She presently serves as the Senior Vice President of Philanthropy and Deputy Chief Philanthropy Officer at CommonSpirit Health.

CommonSpirit Health is the nation’s largest nonprofit health system – delivering clinical excellence across a system of 140 hospitals and more than 1,000 care sites in 21 states, here in the U.S.

Shannon’s career has spanned fundraising roles within academic medicine, a national health charity, and community-based care before becoming a leader at CommonSpirit Health.

Shannon holds an undergraduate degree from Luther College (where she now serves on the Board of Trustees),
a master’s degree in higher education administration from Indiana University, and
a master’s of jurisprudence in health care law from Drake University Law School.

Shannon lives in greater Denver, CO with her husband, DeLane, and teenage sons Miller and Kiefer.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Download your free copy of 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

Click HERE to access important links and helpful resources mentioned in this episode.

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

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Philanthropy in Communities of Color

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, my guest is the incredible Dr. Tyrone McKinley Freeman.

Dr. Freeman is a 2022 Inaugural Laureate of the Dan David Prize, known as “the largest history prize in the world.” The Dan David Prize recognizes outstanding scholarship that illuminates the past and seeks to anchor public discourse in a deeper understanding of history.

He is an award-winning scholar and teacher serving as Associate Professor of Philanthropic Studies at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Previously, Dr. Freeman was a professional fundraiser (just like many of us) working in:

community development
youth and family social services
higher education

He was also Associate Director of The Fund Raising School where he trained nonprofit leaders here in the U.S., as well as in Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Dr. Freeman's research focuses on philanthropy in communities of color and philanthropy in higher education. His latest book, Madam C.J. Walker’s Gospel of Giving: Black Women’s Philanthropy during Jim Crow won AFP’s Skystone Partners Research Prize in Fundraising and Philanthropy — and the Terry McAdam Book Award from the Alliance for Nonprofit Management.

His work has appeared or been cited in The New York Times, O, The Oprah Magazine, TIME, Harvard Business Review, Stanford Social Innovation Review, Black Perspectives, Chronicle of Philanthropy, CASE Currents, and Advancing Philanthropy. He is also co-author of Race, Gender, and Leadership in Nonprofit Organizations.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR

Thank you to our friends at Bloomerang for sponsoring this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser.

Learn why Fundraisers love using Bloomerang and grab your copy of the 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips ebook.

Grab your free copy 13 Lucky Year-End Fundraising Tips now.

Click HERE to access important links and helpful resources mentioned in this episode.

RATE, REVIEW & FOLLOW ON APPLE PODCASTS

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

CONNECT WITH TAMMY ZONKER ON SOCIAL

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

The Role of Emotion in Fundraising

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 06:30:00 -0400

In this episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I’m talking with Francesco Ambrogetti about "The Role of Emotion in Fundraising" and how emotions drive our decisions and shape our behaviors.

Francesco leads UNICEF’s Innovative and Alternative Finance for Children. For over 20 years, he’s been fundraising internationally, across four continents with organizations like World Wildlife Fund, Doctors Without Borders, and the Red Cross World Bank. He is a Professor of Fundraising at Bologna University in Italy and has authored various books including Emotionraising and Hooked on a Feeling (Hillborn, 2016 & 2021).

Click HERE to read highlights and access links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed, and if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now!

Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

The Surprising Gift of Doubt

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 17:36:00 -0400

Listen in as I talk with Marc A. Pitman about his book, "The Surprising Gift of Doubt: Use Uncertainty to Become the Exceptional Leader You Are Meant to Be."

Marc is the founder of The Concord Leadership Group, where he helps people lead their teams with more effectiveness and less stress. Whether it's through one-on-one executive coaching, conducting high-engagement trainings, or growing leaders through his ICF-accredited coach certification program.

Marc's expertise and enthusiasm engages audiences around the world both in person and online. He’s been featured in The Chronicle of Philanthropy, Al Jazeera, Fox News, SUCCESS magazine, and Real Simple.

Click HERE to read highlights and access links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Subscribe to this podcast

Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now!

Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

The Future of Individual Giving

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 10:24:00 -0400

In this episode of Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I'm talking with Tim Sarrantonio, the Director of Corporate Brand at Neon One. They're a provider of innovative, end-to-end nonprofit software solutions. We're talking about The Future of Individual Giving, something that we are all keenly interested in.

Tim is an internationally renowned speaker on generosity, technology, and all the trends in the social goods sector. After helping causes raise more than $3 million, he moved to provide support for thousands of nonprofits. Through his work at Neon One, he has spoken at the AFP international conference, NTEN conference, and TEDx. And Tim holds a certificate in Philanthropic Psychology from the Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy.

Click HERE to read highlights and access links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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Fundraising In a Challenging Economy

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 11:24:00 -0400

In this episode of The intentional Fundraiser podcast, I'm talking with my good friend and brilliant fundraiser Cherian Koshy. He is the principal and consultant with Endowment Partners, an investment management firm that works solely with nonprofits and foundations. We'll be talking about what's on every fundraiser's mind right now: fundraising in a challenging economy, especially as we're heading into the fourth quarter.

We're looking at inflation and possible recession. We talk about donor-advised funds and how they might be part of the solution. Securities and cryptocurrency. In this episode, we talk about how we, as fundraisers, navigate it all.

Click HERE to read highlights and access links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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Going International

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 11:40:00 -0400

Today on The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, I’m talking with Daryl Upsall.

Daryl is the President of Daryl Upsall International Consulting & Daryl Upsall International Recruitment. He’s been working in nonprofit fundraising for nearly forty years.

He and his team work with more than 300 organizations worldwide. They’ve successfully completed 742 nonprofit executive searches for more than 260 organizations in 129 locations worldwide. Organizations like World Wildlife Fund, OXFAM, Greenpeace, UNICEF, and Amnesty International. The very impressive list goes on and on.

In this episode, Daryl is talking about "Going International" as a fundraiser.

Click HERE to read highlights and access the links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Subscribe to this podcast

Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now!

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You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Future-Proofing Your Social Media & Digital Marketing Strategy

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:44:00 -0400

Today we are thrilled to welcome my friend Julia Campbell. Julia is a digital marketing and fundraising expert, a nonprofit consultant, and author.

In this episode, Julia talks about future-proofing your social media and digital marketing strategy. Take a listen.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links, and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Reimagining Fundraising & Leadership in Central & Eastern Europe and Everywhere

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 19:30:00 -0400

Today on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast we are HONORED to welcome Kay Sprinkel Grace. Kay is a renowned consultant to nonprofits and NGOs around the world through her company Transforming Philanthropy. Based in San Francisco, she trains and facilitates retreats with boards, executive teams and emerging leaders in the areas of fundraising and leadership across the U.S. and around the globe. And when I say, around the globe, I’m not exaggerating. Take a listen.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Your Case Is More About the Donor Than Your Organization

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 17:35:00 -0400

Today on The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, we are honored to welcome Tom Ahern. Tom modestly refers to himself as a fundraising copywriter. And the truth is he is the best fundraising copywriter on the planet. He's also author of so many books. In this episode, I wanted to spend some time with Tom unpacking the wisdom of his most recent book Turning Doubters into Donors – How to Make a Compelling Case for Your Cause.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Who the Movers-and-Shakers Call When They Want Something Big to Happen

Tue, 03 May 2022 16:15:00 -0400

Welcome to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast where we’ll be talking with Melanie Sabelhaus. I wanted you to hear from Melanie, because she’s who “movers-and-shakers” call when they want something BIG to happen. She’s an advocate for the Power of Women’s Giving and has had legendary success with women’s initiatives for the American Red Cross & United Way Global.

Melanie is also a philanthropist herself. It’s not often we get to learn through the heart and mind of a philanthropist and volunteer leadership.

So buckle up and get ready to take lots of notes.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

The Importance of Creating & Maintaining Heart-Centered Connections with Our Donors

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 16:35:00 -0400

I am thrilled to have Steven Shattuck on the show today! I wanted you to hear from him because he lives at the intersection of strategic data and relationship development. He really gets it, and I know he'll have lots of juicy nuggets to help us become better, even more strategic and effective fundraisers.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

To get started, learn more about joining our exclusive Fundraising Transformers community.

Reimagining Fundraising for Arts & Culture Post-Shutdown

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 14:00:00 -0400

Welcome to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast where we’ll be talking with Matthew Morse. Matthew serves as Executive Director, leading Strategy & Programs at Creative Partnerships Australia.

They bring the arts community together with individual donors and businesses to create a more vibrant, ambitious and sustainable cultural sector across Australia.

Matthew has served on the executive leadership team with Creative Partnerships Australia for nearly a decade
Prior to that he raised funds for the prestigious Sydney Theatre Company, and The Australian Ballet
He really has his finger on the pulse of arts and culture in Australia. In our conversation today, he’ll be sharing some key insights about fundraising for the arts and cultural organizations.

You DO NOT want to miss this episode.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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Understanding Your Donor’s Perspectives, Unspoken Concerns and Questions

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 16:00:00 -0400

We are delighted to have none-other than Harvey McKinnon join us today on The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast.

I invited Harvey to the show, because he’s one of North America’s leading fundraising experts, a prolific author, and an international keynote speaker. And to help us all better understand your donor’s perspectives, and unspoken concerns and questions.

Harvey loves sharing his passion and expertise with fundraising pros just like you. He’s smart. He’s funny. And while you won’t see it on this podcast, he’s a really good dancer!

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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A Conversation with The Godfather of Relationship Fundraising

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 16:45:00 -0400

Ken Burnett is an international fundraising legend. He quite literally wrote the book on relationship fundraising. He's the founder of SOFII. That's the showcase of fundraising innovation and inspiration. Ken has been a career fundraiser for 45 years, first as the UK director of ActionAid and later as a consultant, prolific author and lecturer. I wanted you to hear from Ken because he's an innovator, he's a visionary and he's charming. I believe we still have a lot to learn about relationship fundraising. As Ken says, we aren't in the money business, we're in the inspiration business and I think you'll get a heavy dose of inspiration in this episode.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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Make It A Happy New Year–Start to Finish

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 22:00:00 -0400

Welcome to 2022!

I love a New Year!

A fresh start.

A new beginning.

An opportunity to create and reimagine the future.

To dream new dreams.

To set new goals.

The truth is, you and I both know we can start fresh and set new goals at any moment during the year. And yet, there’s something magical about January 1st and planning for a new year, at least for me. In fact, it may just be my favorite holiday.

I want to share how I approach planning for my new year. I’ve honed this process over many years – and it works for me. Maybe a nugget or two will enhance your new year planning. And if this approach resonates with you, download our free New Year Goal Planning Guide. It’s a simple set of prompts to inspire your reflection and 2022 goal and dream setting.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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The Honor of Thanking Donors

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 14:05:00 -0400

Gratitude. Here we are at the end of December. How crazy is that? This year is flying by! We just celebrated Thanksgiving here in the U.S. not long ago.

You’ve likely have been giving thanks for the joy and blessings in your life through your own traditions. You’ve gathered with family and friends (maybe in-person, maybe via Zoom). And you’ve likely eaten way more incredible food than you intended! I confess I did.

While the American Thanksgiving with some version of its Norman Rockwell-esque turkey dinner may be how you celebrate the holiday - people all around the world gather to give thanks each Autumn. Like us in North America, some nations even declare it an official holiday. Traditions and histories may differ from country to country, but gratitude and celebration are universal values.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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About Your Case for Support

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 14:03:00 -0400

Today we’re talking about your Case for Support. A critically important tool in every organization’s fundraising toolkit.

Fundraising legend, Jerry Panas had a lot to say about the Case for Support.

“People give to the magic of an idea.”

“People give to audacious dreams.”

Of course, Jerry Panas was an internationally recognized leader and best-selling author in the field of fundraising and philanthropy. He passed in 2018 at the age of 89. But his legacy and influence are alive and well.

A case for support, in its simplest form, is a philanthropic investment prospectus. A document that tells prospective donors or supporters (if you prefer) what your nonprofit organization hopes to accomplish with the donor’s philanthropic gifts.

A case for support may be for capital or a capacity-building campaign.

It could be for a special project.

It could be a case for support to sustain your day-to-day operations and delivery of your core services.

A well-written case for support must answer the following questions:

What you do and why it matters (in a compelling and emotional manner)
Why are you the organization to address this matter?
Why now?
Why me? (your potential or probably donor)

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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You can also connect with Tammy on Twitter and Instagram at @tammyzonker, and on LinkedIn.

We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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5 Important Lessons I Learned in 9 Years as a Chief Philanthropy Officer

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0400

If you've attended a conference where I've spoken in the last several years, you've likely heard me talk about The Children's Center in Detroit. I've had the pleasure of working with The Children's Center for nearly 20 years. First as a fundraising trainer and coach. Then as a part-time contractor to cover staffing gaps. Then a few years later, I became an employee - and served as Chief Philanthropy Officer for 9 years.

It was there that we tripled fundraising results in the first three years
Emerged from the great recession in 2012
And like you, began a pandemic journey we didn't see coming

I resigned from The Children's Center six months ago to devote my full attention to my company, Fundraising Transformed. It's only now... six months later... that insights from those 9 years are emerging. As they say, you can't see the forest when you're in the trees.

Today, I want to share five important lessons I learned in 9 years as a Chief Philanthropy Officer. Insights that I hope will help you be a more intentional, resilient, and effective fundraiser and leader.

Click HERE to read highlights, full transcript, links and resources mentioned in this episode.

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Connect with Tammy Zonker on social

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We can help you take your fundraising results to the next level

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Official Trailer

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 20:00:00 -0400

Welcome to The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, hosted by Tammy Zonker.

If you're passionate about making a positive impact in the world through your work in the nonprofit sector, this podcast is tailor-made for you. I'm here to equip and empower fundraising pros and nonprofit leaders, just like you, with the insights and inspiration you need to elevate your fundraising game and, in turn, transform the world.

In each episode, I dive deep into the world of fundraising, sharing valuable insights, strategies, and success stories that you can immediately put to use to supercharge your fundraising results. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's something here for everyone.

We don't stop at theories and concepts; we bring you focused, highly relevant interviews that explore the latest trends, best practices, and answers to the burning questions that matter most in the nonprofit sector today. You'll get the inside scoop on what's working, what's changing, and how you can stay ahead of the game.

And let me give you fair warning – I'm not afraid to go on a little rant every now and then. Sometimes, a passionate discussion is just what we need to spark those new ideas and innovations.

Ready to dive in? Check out our latest episodes right here. Make sure to hit that subscribe button so you never miss a single episode – trust me, you won't want to!

Join our community of fundraising enthusiasts who are all on a mission to make the world a better place, one episode at a time.

Thank you for being a part of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast community!

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TAKE YOUR FUNDRAISING RESULTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

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