Faith, Fundraising, and the Power of Relationships with Jeff Kruszyna

What if your greatest professional success wasn't just about the money raised, but about the lives changed and the relationships built along the way?

In this episode, Jeff Kruszyna — an award-winning direct response strategist, fundraiser, and copywriter, shares his journey from a New York college student inspired by 9/11 to raising over a quarter of a billion dollars for Republican campaigns, conservative advocacy organizations, veteran support groups, and Christian charities.

With more than 20 years of experience, Jeff has been recognized with industry honors including the AAPC "40 Under 40 Award," Peer Choice All Star Awards, and multiple POLLIE and MAXI Awards. He opens up about the mentors who shaped his career, the family influences that grounded his values, and the early campaign that confirmed his calling to make an impact through fundraising.

Today, as co-founder of JMK Victory, Jeff continues to serve causes he believes in while staying rooted in faith, family, and community.

 

[00:02:18] Meet Jeff Kruszyna

• How Jeff's last name is pronounced ("Kru-shin-a").

• The introduction through Kurt & Kristen Luidhardt that changed everything.

• Early shoutout to Liberty Spenders podcast.

[00:05:27] Jeff's Backstory

• Growing up in Southampton, New York.

• The impact of 9/11 during his first semester of college.

• Switching majors from computer science to political science.

• Discovering conservative activism and direct response fundraising.

[00:07:13] Building a Fundraising Career

• 20 years in direct response and nonprofit fundraising.

• Partnering with Joel Bogger to launch JMK Victory.

• Raising over $250 million for campaigns, causes, and Christian charities.

[00:10:07] Relationships that Changed Everything

• Honoring his grandfather, a Polish WWII veteran and immigrant.

• Lessons of hard work, resilience, and entrepreneurship.

• Passing on his grandfather's legacy to his son.

[00:13:31] Mentors in the Industry

• Learning copywriting and creative strategy from Amy Paul.

• Business-building mentorship from Jamie Hogan.

• Why staying curious and constantly learning is critical.

[00:16:32] Impactful Campaigns

• Early work supporting two imprisoned border patrol agents.

• A Father's Day appeal that made a national impact.

• Receiving a handwritten letter from one of the agents that confirmed his calling.

[00:19:12] Reflections and Purpose

• Knowing he was in the right place, with the right people, for the right reasons.

• The power of relationships in attracting the right opportunities.

[00:20:25] Connect with Jeff

• Website: jmkvictory.com

• Social media links (Facebook, LinkedIn, X).

[00:20:58] Closing Thoughts

• Gratitude for relationships built through introductions.