The Culture of Fundraising: Storytelling, Trust, and Identity with Marcus Collins

In this episode, Mallory and her guest, Dr. Marcus Collins, explores the profound influence of culture on human behavior in fundraising. They discuss how cultural norms shape our perceptions and actions, the distinction between fast and slow culture, and the importance of storytelling in redefining the nonprofit sector. 

The dialogue emphasizes the need for small, incremental changes to foster a more positive culture around giving and fundraising, ultimately aiming to create a more engaged and generous society.

Dr. Marcus Collins is an award-winning marketer and cultural translator. He is the former chief strategy officer at Wieden+Kennedy, New York, a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, and the author of the best-selling book, For The Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want To Be. 

Key takeaways from the episode: 

• Culture is the most influential force on human behavior.
• Understanding culture requires a shared definition.
• Cultural lenses affect how we perceive and interact with the world.
• Social norms guide our behavior in various contexts.
• Fast culture changes quickly, while slow culture evolves gradually.
• Fundraising practices are deeply influenced by cultural beliefs.
• Positive experiences in giving can reshape perceptions of philanthropy.
• Storytelling is essential for nonprofits to connect with their audience.
• Small changes can lead to significant cultural shifts over time.
• Agency in giving is crucial for fostering genuine generosity.

Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

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