What the Fundraising

Mallory Erickson
What the Fundraising

What the Fundraising is the podcast for impact leaders and change-makers who are tired of doing things the old school way and are looking for best practices to raise money, run their organization, and think about the nonprofit sector in a whole new way.  Every Tuesday for 40-60 min, your host, Mallory Erickson, will be having real and raw conversations with some of the best personal and professional development experts, many of whom are outside the nonprofit sector. These are bestselling authors, world-renowned researchers, and TEDx experts, most of whom have never spoken to a non-profit audience before. They have come ready to share expertise, lessons, and stories that will fundamentally change the way you show up as a leader and fundraiser. There are so many valuable lessons nonprofit leaders are missing because they are outside of their typical orbit, but no more. Mallory is bringing them in and helping to apply her guest's expertise to disrupt the nonprofit sector once and for all. So if you are ready to learn how to upgrade your fundraising strategy, leadership skills, energy, habits, and mindset to bring in more funding and actually have some fun doing it, then this is the right podcast for you. If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.

  1. Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Aligning Actions with Intentions with Brian Ford

    2 DAYS AGO

    Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Aligning Actions with Intentions with Brian Ford

    In this episode of What the Fundraising, Mallory dives deep with Brian Ford to explore the psychological barriers that keep us from translating good intentions into meaningful action. Brian sheds light on self-sabotage, the complex belief systems that shape our behavior, and how small, consistent actions can ultimately shift our mindset and redefine our identity. Together, they discuss practical strategies for nonprofit leaders and fundraisers to overcome internal resistance, implement disciplined action, and create supportive systems that foster real progress toward their goals. Brian Ford is the host and founder of Self Improvement Daily, a podcast where he has shared almost 2000 personal development tips and earned over 20 million downloads. He's also the founder of For Purpose Foundation where he uses self improvement as a fundraising vehicle for good. Key takeaways from the episode:  Identify key barriers to turning intention into action, including self-sabotage. Learn how belief systems shape choices through the Identity Behavior Feedback Loop. Recognize the impact of small, consistent actions in overcoming self-sabotage. Redefine discipline as making the right choices despite challenges. Distinguish self-sabotage from genuine intentions using self-reflection. Adopt a growth mindset by learning from mistakes through self-compassion. Apply practical strategies like inversion standards to support personal growth. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    31 min
  2. Systemic Change in Nonprofits with Michelle Flores Vryn

    OCT 29

    Systemic Change in Nonprofits with Michelle Flores Vryn

    In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, Mallory is joined by Michelle Flores Vryn, Head of Development at iNaturalist, about systemic challenges within the nonprofit sector. Michelle brings insights from her 15+ years in marketing, communications, and fundraising, emphasizing the critical need for a shift in nonprofit approaches to problem-solving, retention, and scaling. She is currently head of development at iNaturalist, as well as a changemaker on the AFP global board of directors and a Texas chapter organizer for community-centric fundraising. Together, they delve into pressing issues like fundraisers' burnout, systemic structures that hinder nonprofits, and the sector’s struggle between scaling and driving real systems change.  By setting achievable goals, embracing fresh ideas, and nurturing inner growth, fundraisers can tackle systemic challenges and drive meaningful change, transforming the nonprofit landscape into one that thrives on support and shared purpose! Key takeaways from the episode:  Recognize the role of community support in fundraising. Explore the link between job stressors and burnout. Distinguish between budget scaling and systems change. Address root causes of nonprofit issues. Promote sustainable practices through leadership. Acknowledge generational shifts in workforce expectations. Encourage cultural change in fundraising. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    48 min
  3. Leveraging Behavioral Science to Overcome Fundraising Challenges with Piyush Tantia and Sarah Welch

    OCT 22

    Leveraging Behavioral Science to Overcome Fundraising Challenges with Piyush Tantia and Sarah Welch

    Piyush Tantia, Chief Innovation Officer at ideas42, and Sarah Welch, Associate Managing Director at ideas42, join today's conversation to discuss how behavioral science principles can enhance fundraising efforts. Together, they explore strategies fundraisers can use to stay motivated, manage tasks effectively, and overcome stressors like fear and uncertainty. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how behavioral science improves fundraising effectiveness. Discover strategies for staying motivated and managing tasks. Understand how fear and uncertainty lead to task avoidance. Explore techniques for reducing burnout and stress. Recognize the power of storytelling in fundraising. Reframe negative emotions like shame and pressure constructively. Streamline communication and manage fundraising's emotional toll. Address resistance by understanding underlying behavioral causes. Design solutions to overcome stress and fear in fundraising. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    54 min
  4. System Catalysts - How to Invest in a Moral Revolution with Jacqueline Novogratz

    OCT 17

    System Catalysts - How to Invest in a Moral Revolution with Jacqueline Novogratz

    In this bonus episode of What the Fundraising, please enjoy an episode of the System Catalyst podcast with Jeff Walker and English Sall. They interview Jacqueline Novogratz, founder and CEO of Acumen, a global leader in impact investing.  Jacqueline shares her journey over the past 30 years, exploring how Acumen uses innovative patient capital to create real systems change. By investing in companies that tackle critical issues like climate change, energy access, and poverty alleviation, Acumen has provided pathways for social entrepreneurs to thrive. In this episode, you'll hear: The origins and evolution of impact investing, with Acumen at the forefront. How patient capital fuels long-term social change. The necessity of partnerships with governments, corporations, and investors. Jacqueline’s reflections on building systems that prioritize people, dignity, and moral imagination. If you like what you hear, Follow this link to subscribe to System Catalysts. System Catalysts is produced by Hueman Group Media.  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min
  5. Navigating AI Fears: Strengthening Nonprofits Through Technology and Human Touch with Seth Godin & Floyd Jones

    OCT 15

    Navigating AI Fears: Strengthening Nonprofits Through Technology and Human Touch with Seth Godin & Floyd Jones

    This week’s episode shares a sensational live conversation Mallory had with Seth Godin and Floyd Jones, focusing on exploring the impact of AI on productivity and community building. Seth Godin is an author, entrepreneur, and teacher. He is the founder of the Carbon Almanac, a guide to understanding climate change. Seth has inspired and motivated many people all around the world by focusing on everything from leadership and efficient marketing to spreading ideas and changing things. In 2013, the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame recognized only three practitioners, including Seth. Floyd Jones is a speaker, social impact leader, creator, and community builder. He is the Director of Community & Partnerships at Givebutter, the world's first entirely free end-to-end fundraising platform. He supports the community team's growth strategy through partnerships, sponsorships, strategic campaigns, and special events. In this episode, you will be able to: The importance of staying true to innovations rather than adopting existing methods. The necessity of overcoming the fear of the unknown. The importance of prioritizing human connection in fundraising. How to embrace the AI. How AI affects the transparency. Why is it important to remember the power of people?  Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    27 min
  6. The Culture of Fundraising: Storytelling, Trust, and Identity with Marcus Collins

    OCT 8

    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.  Support for this show is brought to you by GiveButter. GiveButter is the easiest-to-use fundraising platform.  Your favorite fundraising tools, supercharged! Never miss a fundraising opportunity again. Givebutter Plus takes this award-winning platform to the next level with advanced automation, deeper donor insights, and eye-popping supporter engagement tools to help your nonprofit get ahead—and stay there. Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    48 min
  7. Enablement vs Empowering: Finding Alignment in Fundraising with Jess Spino

    OCT 1

    Enablement vs Empowering: Finding Alignment in Fundraising with Jess Spino

    In this episode, Mallory is joined by her COO Jess Spino. Jess and Mallory switch things up with a podcast takeover where Jess interviews Mallory. Listen to hear about the journey they’ve been on together over the past year of working together, and the dynamic of their partnership. Mallory also shares many sneak peeks into her book What The Fundraising, out now!  Explore Mallory’s expertise on the difference between enabling vs empowering, creating meaningful connections and nurturing after burnout.   In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the significance of "enable" over "empower" in fundraising. Explore the importance of aligning values in storytelling. Acknowledge the role of individual connections in building donor trust. Balance work and personal life to prevent burnout and promote joy. Create meaningful connections through intentional storytelling. Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  This week's episode is sponsored by DonorPerfect.  Support for this show is brought to you by DonorPerfect. Our friends at DonorPerfect really understand fundraising on so many levels. Stay aligned while working online with a seamless and secure payments experience for your donors and your team. Empower donors to give where they are, whenever they like, automate data entry, and process online, monthly, and mobile payments, and accept payments over the phone. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min
  8. Empowering Fundraisers through AI Innovation and Inner Alignment

    SEP 24

    Empowering Fundraisers through AI Innovation and Inner Alignment

    In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast.. This episode features a conversation from Mallory's recent appearance on Fundraising.AI LIVE with Tim Lockie! Today's discussion focuses on Mallory's insights into integrating AI within the nonprofit sector, especially in fundraising, while highlighting the challenges nonprofit leaders encounter. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the power of listening to one's inner voice, even in the face of fear, as a path to deeper self-alignment and lasting personal freedom—a message Mallory conveys with passion, drawn from her own experiences and reflections! In this episode, you will be able to: Learn more about the FAI Summit Recognize the Role of Vulnerability in Leadership Balance Technological Efficiency with Human Connection Explore the Importance of Safe Learning Environments Discover the Importance of Inner Wisdom and Courage in Decision-Making Get all the resources from today’s episode here.  Reserve your spot for the Fundraising AI Summit here. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_malloryerickson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whatthefundraising YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@malloryerickson7946 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/mallory-erickson-bressler/ Website: malloryerickson.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652 If you haven’t already, please visit our new What the Fundraising community forum. Check it out and join the conversation at this link. If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    55 min
4.9
out of 5
120 Ratings

About

What the Fundraising is the podcast for impact leaders and change-makers who are tired of doing things the old school way and are looking for best practices to raise money, run their organization, and think about the nonprofit sector in a whole new way.  Every Tuesday for 40-60 min, your host, Mallory Erickson, will be having real and raw conversations with some of the best personal and professional development experts, many of whom are outside the nonprofit sector. These are bestselling authors, world-renowned researchers, and TEDx experts, most of whom have never spoken to a non-profit audience before. They have come ready to share expertise, lessons, and stories that will fundamentally change the way you show up as a leader and fundraiser. There are so many valuable lessons nonprofit leaders are missing because they are outside of their typical orbit, but no more. Mallory is bringing them in and helping to apply her guest's expertise to disrupt the nonprofit sector once and for all. So if you are ready to learn how to upgrade your fundraising strategy, leadership skills, energy, habits, and mindset to bring in more funding and actually have some fun doing it, then this is the right podcast for you. If you’re wanting to implement ideas you heard, visit MalloryErickson.com/Podcast for the top tips and tools, full transcripts, quotes, videos, and additional resources from each episode.

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