The Just Be Cause Podcast

Katherine Lacefield
  • 5.0 (12)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Check out our website: www.justbecause.consulting Welcome to the Just Be Cause Podcast, a beacon of inspiration in the nonprofit space dedicated to exploring the intricate tapestry of causes that shape our world - from the animal kingdom to our environment, and ultimately, to us. I'm Katherine Lacefield, your host, with two decades of experience navigating the nonprofit sector, with a special fondness for animal and environmental causes. Together, we'll delve into the heartening stories of nonprofits fearlessly bridging causes, share practical, hands-on advice on fundraising, and underline the critical role collaboration plays in any successful fundraiser. The Just Be Cause Podcast is more than just a podcast; it's a movement challenging the scarcity mindset that's become all too common. It's about empowering nonprofits to reclaim their power, discover their true purpose, and use mindfulness to turn dream solutions into reality. Join us on this transformative journey towards a more conscious philanthropy. Just Be Cause doing good, is the right thing to do. Don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and share with fellow nonprofiteers who would benefit from the show. Do you have your own story to share? Contact us for us to consider you as a guest on our show! Thank you for being a part of this inspiring community. Until next time, continue to inspire and be inspired.

  1. From Crisis to Prevention: Working Together To Build Safer Communities for Animals & People

    17H AGO

    From Crisis to Prevention: Working Together To Build Safer Communities for Animals & People

    Hey, wonderful changemakers! Tune in to this powerful episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast as we journey into the challenging yet hopeful world of peacebuilding with Rachel Locke and Jai-Ayla Sutherland. We’re unpacking the realities of identity-based mass violence in urban contexts—and more importantly, the courageous work being done to prevent it. Can we move beyond a constant state of global despair? What role do cities play in creating safer, more inclusive communities? And how do personal stories and collective strategies spark real change? With inspiring insights from the groundbreaking book "Identity-Based Mass Violence in Urban Contexts," you'll discover why focusing on solutions (not just problems) matters, how collaboration across causes is key, and the crucial role of both grassroots and global action. Expect honest dialogue, thoughtful analogies (even a few involving super weeds and cat videos!), and practical hope for anyone passionate about a more peaceful world. Ready for a fresh perspective on violence, hope, and systems change? Don’t miss this engaging, thought-provoking episode! Learn more about their work here: ⁠Stanley Center for Peace and Security⁠⁠Peace in our Cities⁠The Book: ⁠Identity-Based Mass Violence in Urban Contexts⁠Resources mentioned in the episode: Humankind: A Hopeful History by Rutger BregmanJust Be Cause Podcast episode with Faunalytics

    1h 5m
  2. Surviving Foreign Aid Cuts: Fundraising Lessons and Models for International Nonprofits

    MAR 17

    Surviving Foreign Aid Cuts: Fundraising Lessons and Models for International Nonprofits

    Hey, lovely listeners! This episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast features an insightful conversation with Clifford Brown, former USAID mission director. We're taking you behind the scenes of America’s foreign aid legacy—unpacking exactly what USAID did and why its work was so critical for global development, humanitarian solutions, and international cooperation. We dive deep into real-life stories of economic empowerment, disaster recovery, and innovative funding models like endowments and investment guarantees—programs that have lived on for decades and transformed communities around the world. We also dive into questions that many of us are asking: Are we missing the bigger picture when we think of foreign aid simply as charity? What happens to global nonprofit work when government funding dries up? Could more creative approaches to funding and collaboration build a more resilient, sustainable future for nonprofits everywhere—even in turbulent times?Join us for a thought-provoking and inspiring journey as we explore the ripple effects of USAID’s closure, the invaluable skills lost in the sector, and actionable advice for diversifying your organization’s funding. This episode is packed with stories, strategies, and hope for anyone passionate about conscious philanthropy and making a lasting difference—just because it’s the right thing to do. Don’t miss it! Episode Resources: Clifford Brown's Substack: cliffordbrown.substack.com Clifford Brown's Book: Inside USAID: An Odyssey of Foreign Assistance

    38 min
  3. Digital Design for Nonprofits: Building Trust, Authority, and Long-Term Impact With Abb-D Taiyo

    12/29/2025

    Digital Design for Nonprofits: Building Trust, Authority, and Long-Term Impact With Abb-D Taiyo

    Hey, changemakers! Ready to rethink everything you know about design, marketing, and impact? On this episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast, host Katherine Lacefield welcomes digital design powerhouse Abb-D Taiyo of Drift Time, a B Corp agency at the intersection of purpose and intention. Together, they unpack how ethical digital marketing and intentional design can transform nonprofit campaigns—and the world. Is good design really exclusive? How do short-term sales tactics hurt long-term donor relationships and the planet? Can storytelling drive real change—without burnout or guilt trips? From navigating frustration in creative careers, to actionable insights on transparency, donor stewardship, and building authentic community, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone seeking more meaningful, sustainable impact. If you’re craving bold ideas, practical examples, and a fresh take on how technology can serve social and environmental good, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss. Ready to design for change? Tune in for a fun, illuminating, and game-changing discussion! Resources Find Abb-D on LinkedIn Driftime: Abb-D's design and impact firm Only.One⁠: People-powered campaigns that shape ocean and climate policy worldwide.

    52 min
  4. Making Nonprofits Accessible Online with Maxwell Ivey, The Blind Blogger

    12/10/2025

    Making Nonprofits Accessible Online with Maxwell Ivey, The Blind Blogger

    Hey, lovely listeners! This episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast features an eye-opening conversation with Maxwell Ivey, aka The Blind Blogger, diving deep into the transformative power of digital accessibility for nonprofits. Join your host, Katherine Lacefield, and Maxwell Ivey as they challenge the scarcity mindset and reveal how improving online accessibility benefits not only those with disabilities, but EVERYONE interacting with your campaigns, websites, and communications. Are your fundraising pages overwhelming and confusing potential donors? Could a few small tweaks truly boost retention, loyalty, and inclusion—while setting your nonprofit apart? Discover actionable strategies for creating emails and websites that are welcoming, easy to navigate, and inclusive. From leveraging alt text and audio descriptions to the hidden advantages of minimalist design, this episode will inspire you to think bigger about stewardship, donor engagement, and building a truly conscious community. Tune in for practical tips, myth-busting insights, and an uplifting reminder that accessibility isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a catalyst for impact and connection. Are you ready to make your nonprofit a place where everyone feels seen and empowered? Don’t miss this inspiring, fun, and insightful episode! Want in on Maxwell's offer for a free homepage accessibility assessment? Email him at: maxwell@accessibilityadvantage.com Maxwell's website: The Accessibility Advantage Accessibility Resources ⁠Less Annoying CRM⁠ ⁠Wave Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool⁠ Resources mentioned in the show Podmatch: Get booked on more podcasts

    57 min
  5. Level Up Donor Retention with Handwritten Direct Mail with Robert Nieves

    11/26/2025

    Level Up Donor Retention with Handwritten Direct Mail with Robert Nieves

    Hey, lovely listeners! Ready for a fresh take on donor stewardship in the age of automation? In this episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast, host Katherine Lacefield sits down with Robert Nieves of LettrLabs to explore the power of authentic handwritten mail and its surprising impact on nonprofit fundraising. Can real connection still break through the sea of AI-generated messages and endless email noise? Why do “old school” touches, like a letter on the fridge, matter more than ever for donor loyalty and engagement? Tune in for practical strategies, industry secrets, and joyful anecdotes—like puppy-powered conference booths and personalized gratitude notes—that challenge conventional fundraising wisdom. Discover how purposeful automation, creative campaigns, and real human authenticity can help nonprofits stand out, deepen donor relationships, and multiply their impact. This episode will inspire you to rethink how you communicate and connect—because sometimes, doing things “just because it’s the right thing to do” is the secret to lasting success! Connect with Robert on LinkedIn here

    49 min
  6. Building Trust and Dignity in Animal Welfare: The Potter League’s Community Navigator Approach

    11/13/2025

    Building Trust and Dignity in Animal Welfare: The Potter League’s Community Navigator Approach

    Hey, lovely listeners! Ready to rethink what animal welfare can look like? This episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast features an inspiring conversation with Brad Shear from the Potter League for Animals, diving deep into the revolutionary concept of the Community Navigator—a role that’s breaking down barriers and fostering trust between nonprofits and the people they serve. Together with your host, Katherine Lacefield, you'll discover how animal organizations can become catalysts for stronger, more compassionate communities by centering dignity and non-judgment in their work. How does treating people with respect transform the lives of animals—and vice versa? What happens when nonprofits move past gatekeeping and instead become genuine partners in holistic support, collaborating with food pantries, shelters, and housing advocates? Can a simple bag of pet food really prevent an animal from being surrendered? Get ready for real-world stories, actionable insights, and bold questions about the future of philanthropy and community care. Tune in for an episode packed with hope, fresh perspectives, and practical ideas—perfect for anyone passionate about making a lasting impact for both humans and their beloved animal companions! Resources Potter League for AnimalsBrad Shear on LinkedInQ Give - Donation platformSPARC - Supporting People and Animal Relationships for ChangeJust Be Cause Podcast Faunalytics Episode

    42 min
  7. Giving Tuesday Made Simple: 10 Quick Wins for Nonprofits and Fundraisers

    11/11/2025 ·  BONUS

    Giving Tuesday Made Simple: 10 Quick Wins for Nonprofits and Fundraisers

    Book your free 30-minute strategy call with me here⁠ -- Hey, lovely listeners! Are you ready to rethink your Giving Tuesday strategy? Tune in to this uplifting solo episode of The Just Be Cause Podcast with Katherine Lacefield, where she shares 10 actionable tips to make your Giving Tuesday campaign truly meaningful—without overwhelming your team or your donors! From creative ways to mobilize support, steward donors, and leverage matching gifts, to the art of segmenting your email communications and making fundraising fun, Katherine Lacefield dives deep into what actually works for small nonprofits. Is Giving Tuesday really about great impact, or is it just another fundraising sprint? Could focusing on gratitude or sharing authentic stories make a bigger difference than chasing dollar goals? Join us for a fresh perspective, real-life success stories, and a gentle push to ditch the stress and rediscover your joy in fundraising! Get ready for an inspiring, practical, and energizing listen! Resources ⁠Giving Tuesday email report⁠ by 1832 Communications ⁠Proofpact⁠: Easily collect stories from your community

    22 min
  8. Collaboration in Action: How Giving Circles Foster Community and Nonprofit Growth

    10/24/2025

    Collaboration in Action: How Giving Circles Foster Community and Nonprofit Growth

    Hey, lovely listeners! Get inspired with this episode of the Just Be Cause Podcast as we chat with Emily Rasmussen, founder of Grapevine, about a game-changing model for philanthropy—Giving Circles! What if everyday people could pool their resources, collaborate, and drive transformative impact in their communities, without the daunting burden of starting a nonprofit? Whether you’re a nonprofit professional battling burnout or simply someone passionate about making a difference, this episode will open your eyes to new possibilities in collaborative giving. We dive deep into why Giving Circles are more accessible, sustainable, and empowering than traditional philanthropic models. Can regular folks truly reshape the way charitable funds flow into grassroots causes? Is this the answer to more equitable and community-driven social impact? Plus, learn how nonprofits themselves can harness Giving Circles to build an engaged, recurring donor community—and even spark inter-organizational collaboration for bigger solutions. Join us for a fun, insightful exploration into manifesting your philanthropic dreams with community, connection, and trust. Ready to rethink giving and take action for the causes you care about most? Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode! Check out the Grapevine here Connect with Emily on LinkedIn

    35 min
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5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Check out our website: www.justbecause.consulting Welcome to the Just Be Cause Podcast, a beacon of inspiration in the nonprofit space dedicated to exploring the intricate tapestry of causes that shape our world - from the animal kingdom to our environment, and ultimately, to us. I'm Katherine Lacefield, your host, with two decades of experience navigating the nonprofit sector, with a special fondness for animal and environmental causes. Together, we'll delve into the heartening stories of nonprofits fearlessly bridging causes, share practical, hands-on advice on fundraising, and underline the critical role collaboration plays in any successful fundraiser. The Just Be Cause Podcast is more than just a podcast; it's a movement challenging the scarcity mindset that's become all too common. It's about empowering nonprofits to reclaim their power, discover their true purpose, and use mindfulness to turn dream solutions into reality. Join us on this transformative journey towards a more conscious philanthropy. Just Be Cause doing good, is the right thing to do. Don't forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and share with fellow nonprofiteers who would benefit from the show. Do you have your own story to share? Contact us for us to consider you as a guest on our show! Thank you for being a part of this inspiring community. Until next time, continue to inspire and be inspired.

Information

  • Creator
    Katherine Lacefield
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Katherine Lacefield
  • Show Website
    The Just Be Cause Podcast