What the Fundraising - podcast cover

What the Fundraising

Mallory Ericksonmalloryerickson.com
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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Episodes

217: Reshaping Systemic Change with Dr. Kevin Sansberry

In this powerful episode of What the Fundraising, we dive into the intricacies of systems change with Dr. Kevin Sansberry founder of KEVRA Consulting LLC, who empowers organizations worldwide through evidence-based strategies rooted in behavioral science. Specializing in fostering inclusive workplace cultures, Kevin coaches leaders across industries, from sports to nonprofits, driving sustainable growth. Mallory and Kevin explore the relationship between individual accountability, organizational...

Dec 10, 202447 minSeason 7Ep. 217

216: Emmie's Big Heart: Lessons of Love and Giving Tuesday with Emmie Erickson

In this adorable and uplifting conversation, Mallory teams up with her five-year-old daughter, Emmie, to celebrate Giving Tuesday and the amazing work fundraisers do. Emmie, who has been participating in Giving Tuesday episodes since she was three, calls it "the best week of the year" and shares her unique perspective on the importance of helping others. This heartwarming episode is a delightful reminder that generosity, compassion, and resilience make all the difference—not just on Giving Tuesd...

Dec 03, 202414 min

215: AI-Powered Storytelling: Elevating Nonprofit Narratives with Visual Media with Dmitry Koltunov, Danny Wu, and Toren Reaves

In this episode, get a look into the recent webinar hosted by Fundraising AI, titled “AI-Powered Storytelling: Elevating Nonprofit Narratives with Visual Media” with Mallory Erickson, Dmitry Koltunov, Danny Wu and Toren Reaves! Listen in for a captivating conversation on leveraging AI's capabilities while safeguarding ethical standards and emotional engagement. Our guests share actionable insights on crafting emotionally resonant narratives, using AI to streamline storytelling processes, and mai...

Nov 26, 202426 minSeason 7Ep. 215

214: Fostering Hope and Joy in Fundraising and DEIB: A Conversation with Tesha McCord Poe

This episode of What the Fundraising Mallory is joined by Tesha McCord Poe, founder of Joy Raising, in a compelling conversation about incorporating joy, hope, and dignity into fundraising and DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) efforts! Tesha brings her deep-rooted passion for educational equity and her lived experiences as a Black woman, parent, and fundraising professional to a heartfelt conversation about reshaping nonprofit practices. Tesha McCord Poe is an accomplished educa...

Nov 19, 202430 minSeason 7Ep. 214

213: Embracing Compassion and Generative Power with Aayaan Singh Jamwal

In this episode of What The Fundraising, Mallory is joined by Aayaan Singh Jamwal, Founder and Lead Coach at Unearth Freedom. Aayaan is a seasoned social justice advocate and liberatory facilitator with a unique blend of experience in leadership coaching, philanthropy consulting, and holistic approaches to empowerment. He integrates ancestral wisdom, research, and curiosity to drive personal healing and social change. Aayaan is recognized as a 2021 Coaching for Everyone Fellow, andis known for b...

Nov 12, 202426 minSeason 7Ep. 213

212: 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 disciplin...

Nov 05, 202431 minSeason 7Ep. 212

211: 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 a...

Oct 29, 202448 minSeason 7Ep. 211

210: 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 mot...

Oct 22, 202454 minSeason 7Ep. 210

209: 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 ha...

Oct 17, 202436 minSeason 7Ep. 209

208: 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...

Oct 15, 202429 minSeason 7Ep. 208

207: 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 ge...

Oct 08, 202448 minSeason 7Ep. 207

206: 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 burno...

Oct 01, 202443 minSeason 7Ep. 206

205: Empowering Fundraisers through AI Innovation and Inner Alignment with Tim Lockie

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 lasti...

Sep 24, 202455 minSeason 7Ep. 205

204: A Deep Dive into Monthly Giving with Dana Snyder

Elevate your fundraising game by turning monthly donations into a powerhouse of support! In this episode, we dive deep into monthly giving with Dana Snyder, the CEO & Founder of Positive Equation. As a speaker, teacher, and podcast host of "Missions to Movements," Dana empowers nonprofits with strategies for leveraging social media ads and building sustainable monthly giving programs, aiming to make philanthropy accessible to everyone. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how to pr...

Sep 17, 202430 minSeason 7Ep. 204

203: The Importance of Finding Alignment in your Funder Partners with Andrea Bouch

Meet Andrea Bouch, a seasoned leader with 15+ years of experience at the intersection of social impact, tech, and employee experience. Andrea has led global talent programs, managed nonprofits, and founded businesses. Moreover, she has led the strategic design and implementation of Stripe's first social impact and corporate philanthropy program. During today's conversation, Andrea shares her journey while offering a candid look into her experiences, from the challenges of balancing personal conn...

Sep 10, 202453 minSeason 7Ep. 203

202: Leadership Transitions and Personal Mission with Amber Melanie Smith

This episode of the What the Fundraising podcast features Amber Melanie Smith. She is a speaker, award-winning nonprofit founder, social entrepreneur, and social impact YouTuber. Moreover, Amber empowers individuals to craft a life and career dedicated to creating positive social change through her growing online community, speaking engagements, and educational content. Tune in to explore Amber's journey, learn from her experiences, and discover strategies for aligning personal passions with pro...

Sep 03, 202428 minSeason 7Ep. 202

201: Financial Transparency and Building Impactful Relationships in Fundraising with Lisa Maynard-Atem

Today's guest champions the art of transparent financial conversations and strategic relationship-building. She encourages starting discussions with financial priorities, framing money as a transformative tool, and embracing proactive action while fostering genuine dialogue and understanding to drive impactful social change. Meet Lisa Maynard-Atem, an entrepreneur, public speaker, and member of the General Assembly of the University of Manchester. As a founder member and former Managing Director...

Aug 27, 202431 minSeason 7Ep. 201

200: Breaking the Cycle: Empowerment, Stress Management, and Sustainable Leadership with Amanda Gulino

Today's episode offers valuable insights into how to create more intentional, empowered, and balanced ways of working and living. Tune in to discover how to break the cycle of stress and start building a life and career that truly supports you! In this episode, Amanda Gulino delves into the complex world of stress management, emotional intelligence, and self-empowerment. Amanda is a dynamic facilitator and certified coach specializing in career design, team development, and leadership habits. Sh...

Aug 20, 202451 minSeason 7Ep. 200

199: Injecting Curiosity and Creativity into Fundraising with John Lepp

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to inject more curiosity and creativity into their fundraising efforts! Today’s guest is John Lepp, a partner at Agents of Good with over 25 years in direct response, marketing, and design. He is also the author of Creative Deviations, which highlights innovative donor communications worldwide. As an international speaker, John shares his expertise in infusing emotion and vulnerability into fundraising. Passionate about fostering genuine connectio...

Aug 13, 202429 minSeason 7Ep. 199

198: Creating a Culture of Emotional Authenticity and Support in Fundraising with Rickesh Lakhani

Uncover the hidden emotional barriers in fundraising, revealing how vulnerability can transform the process from an uncomfortable task to a meaningful connection! Learn more about aligning your values with your daily practices and building a more inclusive and supportive work environment! Today, we sit down with Rickesh Lakhani, the founder and lead consultant of Radiance Advisory, to explore the multifaceted nature of emotional expression and its impact on both personal and organizational level...

Aug 06, 202431 minSeason 7Ep. 198

197: Addressing Burnout and Systemic Change in Nonprofits with Radha Friedman

This episode is a call to action for fundraisers, donors, and nonprofit leaders to rethink their strategies and work together to create a more sustainable and impactful future! Radha Friedman is an intersectional philanthropy and social impact strategist dedicated to directing resources to underserved communities, especially women and girls of color. With over 20 years of global experience, she has partnered with philanthropic and nonprofit leaders to drive movements and effect change. Radha's w...

Jul 30, 202439 minSeason 7Ep. 197

196: Embracing Discomfort and Fostering Collaboration: A Conversation with Kelley Hecht

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, it’s our utmost pleasure to bring you the conversation we’ve had with Kelley Hecht, the executive advisor of the global healthcare and nonprofit at Amazon Web Services, with a passion for helping customers use technology to drive mission impact and innovation. Kelley brings joy to our conversation by sharing her passion for working with non-profit organizations and helping them overcome the difficulties they face, which turned out to be the drivin...

Jul 23, 202450 minSeason 7Ep. 196

195: Unpacking Charity Evaluation: Key Metrics & Transparency for Nonprofits with Michael Thatcher

In this episode of What The Fundraising, Mallory sits down with Michael Thatcher, the President and CEO of Charity Navigator. With nearly nine years at the helm of the organization, Michael brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of nonprofit evaluation. Throughout the episode, Michael dives into the importance of impact assessments, the implementation of internal equity practices, the necessity of transparency and accountability in nonprofits, the adopti...

Jul 16, 202446 minSeason 7Ep. 195

194: The People Behind the Products: The Power of Handwritten Notes with David Wachs

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast… Tune in for practical advice on integrating handwritten notes into outreach strategies and scaling genuine connections! This episode features David Wachs, the founder and CEO of Handwrytten, a pioneering platform reinvigorating the tradition of handwritten notes with innovative, robot-based solutions. Trusted by major meal box services, eCommerce leaders, nonprofits, and professionals, Handwrytten is reshaping how brands and individuals forge mean...

Jul 11, 202423 minSeason 6Ep. 194

193: The People Behind the Products: Embracing Digital Transformation in Nonprofit Fundraising with Michelle Boggs

In this episode of What the Fundraising Podcast, join us for an informative discussion on the future of nonprofit fundraising and the indispensable role of technology in achieving meaningful change. Gain valuable insights on navigating the digital fundraising landscape and leveraging technology to scale impact! Meet Michelle Boggs, the Executive Nonprofit Industry Advisor at Classy. With nearly 20 years of social impact experience, Michelle provides subject matter expertise and leadership in the...

Jul 10, 202430 minSeason 6Ep. 193

192: The People Behind the Products: Empowering Nonprofits with Technology for Good with Steve Johns

Explore how technology, guided by a commitment to doing good, is shaping the future of nonprofit fundraising with Steve Johns! Steve is a visionary leader who empowers nonprofits through technology and innovation. As the CEO of OneCause, he oversees a team committed to supporting over 10,000 nonprofits in achieving their missions. With a robust background spanning technology, corporate development, venture capital, and event production, Steve brings over three decades of expertise to his role. U...

Jul 09, 202431 minSeason 6Ep. 192

191: The People Behind the Products: Reimagining Fundraiser Enablement with Nick Fitz

This episode explores how the future of fundraising is being reshaped, making it easier for fundraisers to thrive and, ultimately, raise more money with greater ease and satisfaction! Join Nick Fitz, the Founder & CEO of Momentum, a pioneering company focused on enhancing the fundraising experience for nonprofits through innovative technology. Nick holds a BA in philosophy and policy from Grinnell College and an MA in psychology and society from the University of British Columbia. His expert...

Jul 08, 202424 minSeason 6Ep. 191

190: From Coercion to Consent: Transforming Email Marketing with Tarzan Kay

Uncover how you can stand out in your industry by adopting ethical email marketing strategies that comply with regulations and make your subscribers feel valued and respected. Learn how to create engaging, emotion-driven newsletters that your subscribers will look forward to, making them want to read and write more emails! Today, we sit down with email marketing expert Tarzan Kay to explore the transformative power of consent-based email marketing. Tarzan Kay is the founder of Tarzan Kay Global,...

Jul 02, 202430 minSeason 6Ep. 190

189: Real Talk: Honest Conversations on Business, Motherhood, and Everything In Between with Dana Snyder, Kishshana Palmer, and Becky Endicott

Today, three inspirational figures, Dana Snyder, Kishshana Palmer, and Becky Endicott, join us for an unfiltered conversation about the realities behind balancing business, motherhood, and personal life. They are exceptional leaders, each dedicated to making a meaningful difference through their unique skills and passions! Dana Snyder is the Founder and CEO of Positive Equation. As a passionate speaker, teacher, and podcast host, Dana dedicates her work to empowering nonprofits with the knowledg...

Jun 25, 202459 minSeason 6Ep. 189

188: The Power of Multi-Channel Fundraising with Dan Sonners

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their nonprofit's fundraising strategy through multi-channel integration and innovative thinking! Today, we are joined by Dan Sonners, a seasoned expert in the fundraising industry with a 17-year career dedicated to empowering nonprofit organizations to discover new donors, raise more funds, and optimize their programs with innovative strategies. Throughout this conversation, he shares practical advice on testing and measuring the effec...

Jun 18, 202424 minSeason 6Ep. 188
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