Contagious Culture

Kyle S. King

The Contagious Culture Podcast with Kyle S. King is focuses on helping mission-driven leaders build strong teams and fund bold work, without losing the heart behind the mission. Each episode features real conversations with nonprofit founders, school leaders, and impact-minded partners, sharing the strategies, stories, and systems that drive culture, leadership, and sustainable growth. If you’re building in education, youth development, or community impact and want practical insights you can apply immediately, this show is for you.

  1. FEB 12

    #155 | Ethical Marketing That Actually Works: How to Build Trust Without Manipulation

    In a world where marketing is often built on pressure, fear, and “gotcha” tactics, this episode is a reset. I’m joined by Chelsea Burns, The Marketing Psychologist™ and Brand Ethicist, for a conversation about ethical marketing that actually works. Not the fluffy kind. The kind that builds real trust, creates long-term customers, and protects your reputation while still driving growth. We break down how manipulation shows up in modern marketing (even when people don’t mean harm), why “high-converting” isn’t always healthy, and what it looks like to build a brand people choose because they feel respected, not cornered. If you’re a founder, nonprofit leader, or marketer who wants to grow without selling your soul, this one will give you language, clarity, and a better way forward. In this episode, we cover: The difference between persuasion and manipulation (and why it matters) Common “trust leaks” in messaging, offers, and funnels How to market with integrity while still hitting revenue goals What ethical urgency looks like, without guilt or pressure Simple trust-building changes you can make today in your copy and content If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t want to sound salesy, but I do want to grow,” press play. This is how you build trust and still win. -- Learn More About the Contagious Culture Conference Subscribe & Leave a Review to The Contagious Culture Podcast Subscribe to Apple Podcasts 📞 Schedule Your Call Here 🖥️ Join the #1 Community for Leaders and Change Makers 👉🏽 Apply to Be in the Growth Alliance  👉🏽Connect with Kyle S. King

    59 min
  2. FEB 11

    #154 | From Relationships to Revenue: Turning Donor Trust Into Commitments

    In fundraising, most leaders are strong at building relationships… but far fewer know how to turn trust into a clear commitment without feeling pushy. In Episode #154 (Power Session), Dr. Daniel Freeman and I break down how to go from connection to closing, by building the kind of trust that makes donors feel confident saying yes. We talk about what donors are really listening for, why “checking in” conversations stall out, and how to lead a donor journey that’s relational and decisive. This isn’t about pressure tactics. It’s about clarity, confidence, and creating a path where the next step feels natural, for you and the donor. In this episode, we cover: The difference between relationship-building and deal-moving The trust signals donors need before they commit How to transition from “great conversation” to “here’s the ask” What to say when donors are interested but hesitant Simple follow-up moves that create momentum (without chasing) If you’ve got strong donor relationships but you’re not closing at the level you need, this Power Session will help you tighten the process and increase commitments, while staying fully aligned with your values. -- Learn More About the Contagious Culture Conference Subscribe & Leave a Review to The Contagious Culture Podcast Subscribe to Apple Podcasts 📞 Schedule Your Call Here 🖥️ Join the #1 Community for Leaders and Change Makers 👉🏽 Apply to Be in the Growth Alliance  👉🏽Connect with Kyle S. King

    23 min
5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

The Contagious Culture Podcast with Kyle S. King is focuses on helping mission-driven leaders build strong teams and fund bold work, without losing the heart behind the mission. Each episode features real conversations with nonprofit founders, school leaders, and impact-minded partners, sharing the strategies, stories, and systems that drive culture, leadership, and sustainable growth. If you’re building in education, youth development, or community impact and want practical insights you can apply immediately, this show is for you.