Hey Nonprofits!

HGA Fundraising

The 'Hey Nonprofits!' podcast is here to help fundraisers and event professionals Raise More Money. Each week, we bring on an industry expert to highlight important tips and strategies, and you can use them effectively to grow your organization. Whether you simply need help communicating with donors or need advanced tactics with setting up live auctions and fundraising events—host Trevor Nelson is here to guide you toward success. Be sure to tune in for a new episode every Tuesday! Brought to you by HGA Fundraising.

  1. Build and Grow Your Donor Pipeline With Intentional Fundraising Events

    4D AGO

    Build and Grow Your Donor Pipeline With Intentional Fundraising Events

    Nikki DeFalco, Vice President of Fundraising at the MS Society, shares how fundraising events are still the best way to build donor pipelines. There has been a surge recently in the following question: are events still worth it? The answer is, absolutely! Nikki and Trevor met on the podcast to discuss how community engagement, localization, and creating enjoyable experiences for attendees can lead to stronger donor pipelines for any nonprofit. Their conversation dives into: - Donor retention - The significance of feedback in event planning - Building and leading a fundraising team - The need for personal connection - Adapting communication for different generational preferences Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/ 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Nikki DeFalco on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-defalco-cfre-31b2323/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    31 min
  2. Our Conversation With Rob Burke From Fundraising Lab

    FEB 3

    Our Conversation With Rob Burke From Fundraising Lab

    This was our podcast with Rob Burke from the Fundraising Lab podcast by Donor Dock. Check out their channel for more fundraising podcasts and powerful conversations like this one. Watch the original episode here https://youtu.be/1M8WcUAsx_c?si=pZ5WnJ9i-i64BxL7 Rob Burke and Trevor Nelson unpack the real truth behind successful fundraising events, why “fundraising is an AND game, not an OR game,” and how organizations can reduce burnout, retain donors, and design smarter, more intentional events that raise more money. 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Donor Dock's CMO, Rob Burke, on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robjburke/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    23 min
  3. Raise More Money at Your Live Auction With This One Phrase

    JAN 27

    Raise More Money at Your Live Auction With This One Phrase

    Dan Lyles shares how he has been selling multiples consistently in live auction by using one magic phrase: "who else wants one?". Reserve the ¡Fiesta en Mexico! trip to use at your next live auction: https://hgafundraising.com/fiesta-en-mexico/ This podcast episode is perfect for auctioneers and nonprofit fundraisers looking to maximize their live auction revenue by getting the most out of each item. Selling multiples isn't easy. Dan Lyles reveals his strategy to sell multiples at any auction event - using HGA's ¡Fiesta en Mexico! package as an example. Work with Dan Lyles for your next live auction: https://danlylesauctions.com/https://danlylesauctions.com/ 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Dan Lyles on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    18 min
  4. An Auctioneer's Journey to Success: Growth Through Relationships and Trying New Things

    JAN 20

    An Auctioneer's Journey to Success: Growth Through Relationships and Trying New Things

    Join Tony, the Auction Guy, as he shares his personal journey into the world of auctioneering. From embracing van life to honing his skills through improv classes, Tony's story is one of continuous growth and exploration. This episode offers a unique glimpse into the life of an auctioneer, highlighting the importance of trying new things and building connections. Perfect for nonprofit fundraisers and auctioneers looking for inspiration and insight into the auctioneering lifestyle. Connect your association with the funding of its dreams: https://www.expoauctions.com/ 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyrissley/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    33 min
  5. Answering Your Nonprofit Fundraising Questions

    JAN 13

    Answering Your Nonprofit Fundraising Questions

    Trevor Nelson and Sandy Hilsenrath answer fundraising and nonprofit-related questions from the audience and the HGA team. Submit your questions for our next AMA episode: https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-question Questions answered: 00:00 What separates nonprofits from consistently grow year over year, from those that stay flat? 02:07 What is the single most important fundraising tool you have? 02:43 If you could reset one misconception nonprofits have about fundraising partners, what would it be? 06:52 What social media platform to find corporate sponsors / partners 08:28 What are some creative ways you've seen nonprofits raise money outside of the traditional methods (i.e. live auction, silent auction, paddle raise) 10:40 What is the most impactful gift you've received on Christmas? 12:07 How to bring up fresh ideas for fundraising when you have stubborn board members stuck in their old ways? 15:05 Best communication practices for the new year 17:30 How would you build a nonprofit "super team" from scratch? 19:12 Which HGA auction items are raising the most amount of money right now? 20:48 If you had one piece of an advice for an event fundraiser, what would it be? 23:41 What's the other magic number for fundraising? 24:37 What are the best industries to target for corporate sponsorships? 28:16 Do you believe in new year's resolutions? And what resolutions would you recommend for nonprofits to have for 2026? 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Sandy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrahilsenrath/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    33 min
  6. Remove Internal Resistance And Build Fundraising Momentum

    JAN 6

    Remove Internal Resistance And Build Fundraising Momentum

    What if the secret to being a better fundraiser is taking better care of yourself first? Fear and stress for fundraisers is REAL. In this conversation, fundraising expert and CEO of Practivated, Mallory Erickson, shares how prioritizing your well-being isn't just good for you—it's essential for creating authentic, lasting relationships with donors. If you're exhausted from transactional fundraising, struggling to build genuine connections, or feeling like you have to sacrifice your health to hit your goals—this episode will give you the tools to overcome these challenges. Boost your fundraising confidence with the help of practivated.com Overcome fundraising challenges by reading Mallory's book, What the Fundraising! Get your copy here: malloryerickson.com/book Listen to Mallory's podcast for cutting-edge fundraising strategies https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    52 min
  7. Raise More Money With the Paddle Drop - a Step by Step With Chris Hensley

    12/30/2025

    Raise More Money With the Paddle Drop - a Step by Step With Chris Hensley

    Why does everyone at your fundraiser need a paddle? We've teamed up with our friend and world class fundraiser, Chris Hensley, to give you a step by step guide (and real time case study that raised $26,000) on how to add the paddle drop to your next event. In this episode, Trevor Nelson sits down with Chris Hensley, professional auctioneer and former fundraiser, to break down exactly how paddle drops work, why they’re so effective, and how nonprofits can use them to dramatically increase event revenue. Explore Chris Hensley's consulting and auctioneering services: https://www.bidraisebid.com/ *In this episode we cover:* - What a paddle drop really is (and what it’s not) - How to create anticipation and excitement before the moment happens - Why surprise is critical to maximizing participation - How to engage donors at every giving level - The role trusted community leaders play in increasing donations - How paddle drops help identify and cultivate future major donors - Why transparency and clear communication matter during the ask - How the right auctioneer can drive more results 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hensley-auctions/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    23 min
  8. Are Fundraising Events Dying? The Truth Every Nonprofit Needs for 2026

    12/16/2025

    Are Fundraising Events Dying? The Truth Every Nonprofit Needs for 2026

    Are fundraising events no longer the #1 way to raise money? Trevor Nelson and Marty Murad dig into that question and uncover what’s really happening in the new generosity landscape. *In this episode, they break down:* - Why communities still crave in-person events - The real psychology behind why donors give (and why they stop) - How family-business thinking can strengthen a nonprofit - Why younger generations are struggling to give - How to simplify the giving process to increase participation - How small nonprofits can dramatically grow revenue with smarter events - Why thanking donors more often directly increases donation size Need help with your auction event? Check out https://muradauctions.com/ 🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗 Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/ Connect with Marty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helpingnon-profitsraisemoremoneyatevents/ Follow Murad Auctions on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/murad-auction-group-llc/ Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/ 💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙 This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY. To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/ Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/ Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

    30 min
5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

The 'Hey Nonprofits!' podcast is here to help fundraisers and event professionals Raise More Money. Each week, we bring on an industry expert to highlight important tips and strategies, and you can use them effectively to grow your organization. Whether you simply need help communicating with donors or need advanced tactics with setting up live auctions and fundraising events—host Trevor Nelson is here to guide you toward success. Be sure to tune in for a new episode every Tuesday! Brought to you by HGA Fundraising.