188 episodes

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.

What the Fundraising Mallory Erickson

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 102 Ratings

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.

    The Impact of Monthly Giving with Caitlin Wion

    The Impact of Monthly Giving with Caitlin Wion

    Whether you are a nonprofit professional seeking to enhance your monthly giving program or a donor looking to make a meaningful impact, this episode promises to inspire and inform!
    Meet Caitlin Wion, Data Manager at Alzheimer's San Diego, who brings a rich background in museums and academia, complemented by a Master's degree in history, to her role. Her transition into the nonprofit sector was sparked by witnessing friends' satisfaction in similar database-related positions, leading her to join the team in 2018. In her role, Caitlin ensures the accuracy and currency of client and donor records, leveraging her problem-solving skills honed from previous experiences. Beyond the administrative tasks, Caitlin finds fulfillment in event interactions, relishing the opportunity to engage with the community firsthand. Driven by a personal connection to Alzheimer's, Caitlin's grandmother's battle with the disease also fuels her passion for the organization's mission.
    In this episode, you will be able to:

    Understand the importance of seamless integration of monthly giving into operations.

    Recognize the impact of monthly donations on organizational programs.

    Learn strategies for building community among monthly donors.

    Discover the benefits of donor segmentation and personalized communication.

    Appreciate the value of a soft ask approach in fundraising communications.

    Learn to leverage automation tools while maintaining a personal touch.

    Understand the importance of data analysis in refining strategies.

    Recognize the significance of offering donors choices in giving preferences.

    Appreciate the importance of prioritizing donor experience for engagement.


    Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

    This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. 
    NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/mallory


    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

    • 30 min
    Decoding Generosity with GivingTuesday's Chief Data Officer, Woodrow Rosenbaum

    Decoding Generosity with GivingTuesday's Chief Data Officer, Woodrow Rosenbaum

    In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast,
    Revolutionize your approach to donor engagement and inspire new strategies for fostering lasting connections with supporters!
    Today, we are joined by Woodrow Rosenbaum, GivingTuesday's Chief Data Officer. Woodrow has been instrumental in shaping the global generosity movement and has led ground-breaking research and analysis of individual giving behaviors. He leads the GivingTuesday Data Commons, bringing together a coalition of more than 1,000 collaborators coordinated through eight working groups as well as data teams in 50 countries to understand the drivers and impacts of generosity to inspire more giving of all types. Woodrow brings expertise in moving markets and transforming audiences from passive participants to active and vocal ambassadors. Woodrow is also the founder of With Intent Strategies, an international agency specializing in brand reimagination.
    Woodrow is a member of the Generosity Commission Research Task Force, serves as a Co-Chair for Global Impact Canada's Board of Directors, and was previously a Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School. 
    In this episode, you will be able to:

    Appreciate the diverse ways in which people express generosity.

    Understand the dynamic nature of giving patterns.

    Recognize the importance of adapting strategies to match evolving giving patterns.

    Explore the role of guilt, motivation, and belonging in donor decision-making.

    Challenge common assumptions about the drivers of giving.

    Recognize Giving Tuesday's potential as a catalyst for sustained engagement.


    Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

    This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. 
    NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/mallory


    Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_
    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

    • 51 min
    Transforming Fundraising: Bridging Donor-Centric and Community-Centric Approaches with Rachel D'Souza

    Transforming Fundraising: Bridging Donor-Centric and Community-Centric Approaches with Rachel D'Souza

    Embrace a revolutionary fundraising approach that champions equity, transparency, and authentic collaboration with communities. Together, let's spark impactful change with Rachel D'Souza!
    Rachel D'Souza is a pioneering force in the nonprofit realm, renowned for her transformative initiatives. As the founder of Gladiator Consulting, she spearheads innovative strategies for nonprofits nationwide. Rachel is a trailblazer in the Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) movement, advocating for radical collaboration, racial equity, and social justice. Her leadership extends to the global stage as a member of the CCF Global Council. Rachel is also the president-elect of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater St. Louis Regional Chapter. Committed to nurturing future leaders, she actively engages with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network and EPIP.
     
    In this episode, you will be able to:

    Critically evaluate the dichotomy between donor-centric and community-centric fundraising models.

    Recognize power dynamics and systemic challenges embedded within fundraising practices.

    Understand the importance of authentic relationships and transparent communication in fundraising efforts.

    Explore the concepts of honesty, vulnerability, and inclusivity in the context of fundraising.

    Evaluate fundraising strategies to align them with community needs and values.

    Apply practical advice for implementing justice-oriented approaches in fundraising.


    Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

    This week's episode is sponsored by NeonOne. 
    NeonOne is revolutionizing the way nonprofits connect with their communities. Their platform isn’t just about technology; it’s about crafting unforgettable generosity experiences. Learn more about how they're empowering nonprofits like yours at neonone.com/mallory

    Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_
    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.

    • 36 min
    Prioritizing Racial Equity, Boundaries and Self-Care in Fundraising with Kia Croom

    Prioritizing Racial Equity, Boundaries and Self-Care in Fundraising with Kia Croom

    Are you ready to challenge the status quo and thrive against the odds in fundraising?
    Join us for an eye-opening podcast episode featuring Kia Croom, a trailblazing fundraising expert with over two decades of experience. In this enlightening conversation, Kia fearlessly addresses the challenges facing black and brown leaders in the nonprofit sector while emphasizing the critical importance of boundaries and self-care.
    Kia's extensive portfolio spans diverse causes such as STEM, housing, youth development, education, and HIV/AIDS. Kia excels in forging impactful corporate partnerships and is proficient in major gifts, grant writing, creative messaging, and digital marketing. Moreover, Kia ardently champions racial and philanthropic justice, focusing on combatting anti-Black racism by bolstering Black-led nonprofit organizations.
     
    In this episode, you will be able to:

    Understand the challenges for black and brown leaders in nonprofits.

    Learn the importance of setting boundaries and self-care in fundraising.

    Explore DEI's role in fundraising.

    Prioritize racial equity and justice in nonprofits.

    Recognize the harms of overwork, especially for marginalized groups.

    Discover strategies for self-preservation in fundraising.

     
    Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

    Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory

    Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_
    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

    • 37 min
    Unveiling Capital Campaign Insights with Steven Shattuck

    Unveiling Capital Campaign Insights with Steven Shattuck

    Join us on an enchanting journey as our guest today, Steven Shattuck, unveils the secrets of capital campaigns, igniting a spark of creativity and innovation. Together, let's embark on a quest to redefine fundraising excellence, guided by wisdom and inspired by possibility. It's time to unlock the hidden treasures that await those who dare to dream big and strive for greatness!
    Steven Shattuck is the Director of Engagement at Capital Campaign Pro, where his expertise shapes strategies for effective donor communications, data management, and digital content. With over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Steven is a recognized thought leader renowned for his insightful contributions. He has authored compelling content for esteemed platforms like the National Council of Nonprofits, AFP, Advancing Philanthropy, NTEN, and Nonprofit Hub. As a dynamic presenter, Steven frequently leads webinars and speaks at prestigious conferences, including AFP ICON, NAYDO, Cause Camp, ADRP, the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference, and Planet Philanthropy. Additionally, he is the author of Robots Make Bad Fundraisers: How Nonprofits Can Maintain the Heart in the Digital Age.
    In this episode, you will be able to:

    Appreciate the value of research and data in dispelling fundraising myths and guiding decisions.

    Recognize the importance of board engagement in capital campaign success.

    Evaluate the effectiveness of pausing a capital campaign amidst external challenges.

    Learn strategies for maintaining momentum in fundraising efforts during crises.

    Explore the concept of non-transactional fundraising relationships and their impact on donor engagement.

    Identify best practices for successful fundraising endeavors in the nonprofit sector.


    Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

    Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory

    Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_
    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

    • 30 min
    Motivation Dynamics in Successful Fundraising Campaigns with Szu-chi Huang

    Motivation Dynamics in Successful Fundraising Campaigns with Szu-chi Huang

    In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast,
    From the initial spark igniting a cause to the crescendo of community support, navigating the twists and turns of motivation paves the path toward fundraising triumph!
    In today's episode, Dr. Szu-chi Huang, an esteemed researcher in motivation science, delves into the intricacies of sustaining motivation throughout fundraising campaigns. Her research centers on the science of motivation, particularly exploring the temporal and social aspects of striving towards goals. She uses experiments to examine causal processes closely and field studies to test these findings in the real world, such as launching loyalty programs with companies and conducting intervention campaigns with nonprofit organizations like UNICEF.
    In this episode, you will be able to:

    Recognize the dynamic nature of motivation in fundraising campaigns.

    Tailor strategies for each stage of the fundraising campaign.

    Reframe success as a continuous journey rather than a singular destination.

    Utilize reflection and collective sharing to maintain momentum.

    Leverage diverse tools and resources to sustain motivation.


    Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

    Support for this show is brought to you by a beloved nonprofit fundraising platform Givebutter. Our friends at Givebutter really understand what it takes to stay connected to your donors and how to use your CRM to do it. Their free fundraising platform empowers millions of changemakers to raise more, pay less, and give better every single day. To learn more about them, head on over to givebutter.com/mallory

    Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefundraising_
    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

    • 27 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
102 Ratings

102 Ratings

Jen C Browne ,

Important + Enjoyable Professional Development

I really appreciate this podcast. I receive so many valuable nuggets of information -- and important reminders to take care of myself-- as i navigate my fundraising career journey. Mallory does an exceptional job at holding space for topics that fundraisers need to be discussing in more depth. I feel seen and understood and part of a much larger community as a result of the conversations she shares on this show. It really does make a big difference - and also makes my commutes much more productive + enjoyable!

Bona and Team Capsho ,

Informative and impactful

Mallory has created a fantastic podcast that brings fresh insights and innovative approaches to fundraising and the nonprofit sector. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to make a real difference in the world.

From Bona and Team Capsho

Kimberley @ PoetOwl.com ,

Taking the Mystery Out of Helping People Invest in a Better World

Philanthropy is about helping people make a difference in the lives of others and the world. Sounds simple, right? Not always. If you’re a nonprofit ceo, a front-line fundraiser, or a volunteer leader, helping people invest in your organization or cause can feel daunting. Enter Mallory Erickson and her guests on What the Fundraising. This podcast takes the mystery out of building a healthy, sustainable nonprofit. The weekly conversations touch on the practical and strategic as well as the human and compassionate sides of changing the world, or at least one corner of it. It’s a must listen, reminding you, “yes, you can make a difference and you’re not alone.”

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