The Development Download Podcast

Sarah Brown Rankin
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Welcome to The Development Download from the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Houston Chapter. On this podcast, we have connected, candid, and fun conversations about all things fundraising. Hosted by Sarah Brown Rankin, CFRE.

  1. How Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana Built a Seven-Figure Gala

    FEB 4

    How Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana Built a Seven-Figure Gala

    In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Shelly Millwee and Jess Ansel from Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. Shelly serves as President and CEO, and Jess is Vice President of Philanthropy. Together, they share how their chapter built a seven-figure gala from the ground up. We explore the thoughtful planning and foresight behind the event, how they centered mission at every stage, and how they designed meaningful, mission-driven moments that inspired guests. This conversation is a strong reminder that successful galas don't happen by accident. They're designed, planned, and executed with purpose.   LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellymillwee/ Https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaygoodman/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/make-a-wish-texas-gulf-coast-and-louisiana/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/

    46 min
  2. Top 3 Strategies to Transform Your Fundraising in 2026 with Eldon Lewis

    JAN 7

    Top 3 Strategies to Transform Your Fundraising in 2026 with Eldon Lewis

    In this episode of The Development Download, we're joined by Eldon Lewis of LewisOrellana Inc for a lively conversation on strategies you can implement today to transform your fundraising heading into 2026.  As the new year begins, Eldon shares three practical, high-impact strategies that development professionals can use to reset priorities and strengthen their fundraising efforts. Drawing on his experience as a fundraiser and consultant, this conversation focuses on concrete ideas, realistic first steps, and a lively pep talk to get you fired up for 2026.  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/eldonlewis/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/

    37 min
  3. Mentor Moment with Christine Ann Stevens

    12/03/2025

    Mentor Moment with Christine Ann Stevens

    This episode of The Development Download features Christine Ann Stevens, MBA, CFRE, SHRM-CP, incoming Board President for AFP Greater Houston. We talk about mentorship, the return of AFP Greater Houston's mentorship program, and what a strong mentoring relationship can look like in practice, including a live mentoring moment with Sarah. Christine also gives us a look at what's ahead for the chapter in 2026.  Link to a previous episode of the Development Download featuring Christine speaking on creating a culture of philanthropy at your nonprofit:  The Secret Sauce of a Thriving Philanthropic Culture with Christine Stevens and Katie Salvatore LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineannstevens/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-mikayla-brown/

    37 min
  4. So You Want to Be a CEO? with Christina J. Allen

    11/05/2025

    So You Want to Be a CEO? with Christina J. Allen

    In this episode of The Development Download, Christina J. Allen, CEO of FamilyTime Crisis and Counseling Center, joins us to share her journey of moving from fundraiser to executive leader. We talk about what it really takes to step into the top role, building your skills, managing your board, and leading with authenticity. Christina also opens up about seeking feedback, keeping a big-picture vision, and staying the top fundraiser as CEO.

    52 min
  5. Hammer Time: How Houston ToolBank Equips Nonprofits with Marly Maskill

    10/01/2025

    Hammer Time: How Houston ToolBank Equips Nonprofits with Marly Maskill

    This episode features Marly Maskill, Executive Director of the Houston ToolBank. The ToolBank is a nonprofit lending library that equips other nonprofits with tools and equipment so they can focus resources on their missions rather than overhead. Marly shares how organizations can access ToolBank's inventory of hammers, power drills, tables, generators, and other event gear to get projects done without the burden of owning or maintaining equipment. The conversation also explores in-kind giving, including when to accept, how to acknowledge, and when it is best to say no, so you can make smart decisions that serve your mission. Connect with the Houston ToolBank: https://www.houstontoolbank.org/ Connect with Marly Maskill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marly-maskill-6b078152/

    39 min
  6. Philanthropy that Shaped Houston with Susan Coulter

    09/03/2025

    Philanthropy that Shaped Houston with Susan Coulter

    In this episode of The Development Download, we feature Susan Coulter (Byron Welch Award for Lifetime Achievement in Fundraising 2023) to explore the philanthropy that shaped Houston—and what it means for fundraisers working in our city today. We dive into historic gifts that built Houston's hospitals, parks, and cultural institutions, share insights on what makes Houston's fundraising landscape unique, and highlight opportunities for today's fundraisers to build relationships with donors.    Plus, we discuss the upcoming National Philanthropy Day Awards and Luncheon—a must-attend event for Houston's nonprofit community.   Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or just starting out, this episode is full of stories, strategies, and inspiration.

    42 min
  7. Should You Get Your CFRE? Let's Talk About It.

    08/06/2025

    Should You Get Your CFRE? Let's Talk About It.

    In this episode of The Development Download, we're digging into what the CFRE (Certified Fundraising Executive) credential is, why it matters, and how to know if it's the right move for your fundraising career.   You'll hear from CFREs and AFP Greater Houston board members Ronnie Hagerty and Will Horton, who share how the certification has shaped their professional journeys, what the process was really like, and their best tips for preparing — without burning out.   Whether you're CFRE-curious or already deep into your application, this episode offers real talk, smart advice, and plenty of encouragement.

    42 min
  8. Navigating the Shifting Landscape of Federal Grants with Allison Boyd and Janice Adamson Splawn

    07/02/2025

    Navigating the Shifting Landscape of Federal Grants with Allison Boyd and Janice Adamson Splawn

    In this episode of the Development Download, grant consultants Allison Boyd and Janice Adamson Splawn discuss the shifting landscape of federal funding and what it means for fundraisers navigating today's challenges. We unpack key trends and offer insights to help fundraisers stay ahead, including resources for the best information.

    41 min
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Welcome to The Development Download from the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Houston Chapter. On this podcast, we have connected, candid, and fun conversations about all things fundraising. Hosted by Sarah Brown Rankin, CFRE.

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