The Fundraising Elevator Podcast

In this episode we’re joined by AI educator, strategist, and nonprofit veteran Josh Hirsch. With nearly two decades of experience in the sector and a deep background in digital communications, fundraising, and training, Josh brings both wisdom and cutting-edge insights to a conversation that’s all about demystifying AI for nonprofits. We explore how generative and predictive AI are transforming everything from fundraising strategy ...

In this episode, Sharon Papo of Indigo Skies Consulting and LGBTQ eLearning explores the complexity and necessity of DEI, and what it means to stay true to your values in today’s climate. From legal ambiguity to organizational values, she talks about how nonprofits can remain mission-aligned while navigating increased scrutiny, shifting language, and growing political pressures. Sharon also dives into the data-backed benefits of DE...

In this episode we’re joined by longtime sector leader, coach, and truth-teller Marc A. Pitman, founder and CEO of Concord Leadership Group. We explore the surprising (and sobering) origins of nonprofit structures and productivity tools—from the legacy of slavery and colonialism to outdated industrial-era mindsets still embedded in our systems. Marc helps us see how practices like time management, donor stewardship, and organizatio...

In this episode Kelly Russell, benefit auctioneer and author of "The Book on Fundraising Auctions," discusses current fundraising trends and strategies. Kelly stresses early planning as the biggest success factor. For revenue maximization, Kelly  insists every event must include a paddle raise with pre-committed gifts to build momentum. Compelling storytelling delivered through short, respectful programs forms the foundation of suc...

This episode explores Mallory Erickson’s new book "What the Fundraising," which argues that declining donor participation and fundraiser burnout are connected problems, both driven by transactional fundraising practices that feel horrible to everyone involved. Mallory's primary hope is that fundraisers feel seen and less alone, understanding their discomfort with traditional approaches is normal. She wants folks to realize that fun...

In this episode Yolanda F. Johnson—president of YFJ Consulting and founder of Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy—brings her unique perspective to the world of philanthropy. As a leader in fundraising, philanthropy, and inclusion, equity and diversity (IED) and a sought-after classically-trained soprano and musician, Yolanda has successfully led fundraising operations for a wide range of nonprofit organizations, developi...

In this episode Steven Screen, co-founder of Better Fundraising Company and inventor of the "Ask, Thank, Report, Repeat" fundraising rhythm, talks about how nonprofits can navigate the current period of uncertainty affecting fundraising efforts. Today's landscape varies significantly across organizations. Some nonprofits face severe government funding cuts, others are benefiting from "rage giving," and many fall somewhere in betwee...

In this episode, theme park designer Ariel Ruiz shares her expertise in experiential design. The conversation reveals how Ariel’s background creating immersive rides translates to nonprofit events, where she approaches spaces as storytelling opportunities rather than mere venues. She explains that effective experiences are built around a clear narrative foundation, with every design choice—from lighting and color to sound and scent...

In this episode Mariah Monique of The Sponsorship Catalyst shares her expertise on nonprofit sponsorship strategies. Drawing from her experience on both sides of sponsorship relationships, Mariah brings great insight and strategy to event sponsorship. Despite economic uncertainties, sponsorship budgets are growing as companies recognize the value of experiential marketing. She advises nonprofits to diversify their sponsorship portf...

In this episode with fundraising expert Dale Johannes of DC Auctions, we explore the recent resurgence of golf tournaments as effective fundraising vehicles. The conversation covers creative on-course fundraising strategies—from trivia contests sharing mission facts to "closest to the keg" competitions—that generate revenue throughout the day while introducing participants to your organization's work. Dale emphasizes that most atte...

In this episode we talk to Sabrina Walker Hernandez who brings over 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience to a conversation about effective board engagement. We look at the core functions of boards and Sabrina walks through the importance of transparency during recruitment, comprehensive onboarding led by existing board members, and implementing "board buddy" systems to mentor newcomers. The conversation shifts to her innovat...

In this episode we welcome Anne Murphy, founder of She Leads AI and Empowered Fundraiser Consulting and Coaching, to help nonprofits understand how to leverage artificial intelligence effectively and ethically. We explore:

• Making AI Work for Nonprofits: Anne explains why the social sector is uniquely positioned to guide AI adoption responsibly and ethically
• Saving Valuable Time: Discover how AI can give fundraisers back hours...

What does the future of nonprofit fundraising leadership look like—and who’s shaping it? In this episode, we’re joined by Birgit Smith Burton, a nationally respected voice in fundraising and equity. As the founder of the African American Development Officers Network (AADO) and the first Black woman to chair the global board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Birgit has been a tireless advocate for fundraisers of...

In this episode we talk to Jason Allen Champion, Vice President of National Partnerships for Winspire, to discuss how consignment auctions can be a strategic tool for nonprofit fundraising. Consignment auctions offer nonprofits a low-risk way to enhance fundraising efforts while creating memorable donor experiences that reinforce organizational missions. Jason shares his expertise on maximizing revenue through consignment auction p...

In this episode mental health advocate and nonprofit executive Ian Adair discusses psychological safety in nonprofit workplaces. Ian shares practical strategies for creating safer environments, including modeling vulnerability as a leader, encouraging risk-taking, providing constructive feedback, and recognizing contributions. He extends these principles to donor relationships, emphasizing the importance of understanding what other...

In this episode we join Bradley Martin, VP of Growth Marketing at Feathr—a digital marketing platform—to talk about the larger nonprofit landscape and how to respond to the changes taking place. Bradley shares his expertise on leveraging digital marketing strategies to accelerate fundraising efforts.

We cover shifting donor demographics, how nonprofits can effectively use retargeting to re-engage website visitors and convert them t...

Recorded live at the 2025 Elevate Conference, podcast host Kristin Steele presents a keynote on creating meaning for donors at your event. Stories are told in our event marketing, our event program, and even in our event design. They give our gathering intention and are the quickest path to connection, community building, and donor development. We’ll look at how to shape event stories for guests to create impact, connection, and me...

Recorded live at the 2025 Elevate Conference, hosts Samantha Swaim and Kristin Steele moderate a powerful conversation with guest Diana Farias Heinrich, creator of the Equastory™ framework to address how to be equitable, thoughtful, and careful when we are sharing our nonprofit stories. Diana actively safeguards equality, respect, and dignity in nonprofit storytelling as the CEO of Habrá Marketing. Through the Equastory™ Framework,...

In this episode, we explore the critical shift from deficit-framed language to asset-based language in the nonprofit sector with special guest Frank Velásquez Jr. Leading with deficit often reinforces harmful stereotypes and systemic disparities, negatively impacting both organizations and the communities they serve. By embracing asset-based language, nonprofits can highlight strengths and opportunities, fostering transformative ch...