How to Manage Rogue Board Members During a Capital Campaign

In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, Amy Eisenstein and Andrea Kihlstedt tackle a common challenge: well-meaning board members whose ideas can derail a campaign. From insisting on fundraising galas to asking for gifts too early—or too small—board members often act with good intentions but without a clear understanding of how campaigns actually work.

Amy and Andrea share real-life examples of how campaigns have gone off course due to board members pushing for events, making premature asks, setting unrealistic goals, or resisting professional help. They explain why these situations happen and what staff and leadership teams can do to address them without damaging relationships.

You’ll hear practical suggestions like:

• Inviting outside campaign consultants for informal interviews to offer perspective
• Bringing in peer leaders from other successful campaigns
• Using tools like one-on-one conversations and Capital Campaign Pro’s free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaigns

This episode also explores why compassion and curiosity matter when redirecting board members—and how a calm, strategic approach can keep your campaign focused, your team unified, and your donors confident.

If you’ve got a board member pushing for a golf tournament to raise $10 million, this one’s for you.

For more board engagement tips, be sure to download our free Board Member’s Guide to Capital Campaign Fundraising. It answers the questions board members most frequently ask, or wish they could ask.