Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Hey Nonprofits!

Your corporate partners can give you far more than a check. After 35 years in corporate B2B sales and marketing leadership, Dan Drucker (founder of Philanthropy Fuel) sits down with Trevor to break down what nonprofits miss about corporate partnerships, and why the opportunity is bigger than most teams realize.

Dan draws a hard line between sponsorships and partnerships. A sponsorship is a one-time check or in-kind gift for your gala or golf outing. A partnership is a long-term commitment that compounds: employee engagement and skills-based volunteering, distribution channels, physical locations, technology, market research, and the single most underused asset of all, a company’s networks of suppliers, customers, and employees. He explains why one strong partnership can change a small nonprofit’s trajectory, so the goal isn’t a list of 100 prospects, it’s a handful of the right conversations.

From there he lays out a methodology any organization can use: define the value and assets you already have, translate them into language a business gets excited about, then find the companies that already want what you offer. He makes the case that fundraising done right has far more in common with good sales than the sector wants to admit, why “stewardship” is too passive a word for real donor engagement, and how to get the right people in the room at your events instead of just filling seats.

The throughline is a mindset Dan repeats to nonprofits of every size: you are not at a deficit. You have programs, community insight, audience reach, and impact stories a business would pay for. Walk into the conversation like a partner, not a charity case.

Where to start: existing sponsors and suppliers, your board, your volunteers, and your local chamber of commerce.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:30 Why the sector needs reminding of the simple stuff

02:56 Nonprofit work can feel like an island

04:56 Dan's origin story: 35 years in corporate sales

10:55 Is fundraising more sales-driven than the sector admits?

14:40 The guru of corporate partnerships

15:48 Why "stewardship" is too passive a word

17:09 What corporate partners offer beyond funding

20:38 Getting the right people in the room at events

27:35 Reverse engineering what partners actually value

33:43 Where nonprofits should start

40:32 You are not at a deficit

43:29 The case for nonprofit collaboration and mergers

46:12 Where to find Dan

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/druckerdan/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Trevor Nelson and benefit auctioneer George Franco make the case for replacing stewardship with partnership. Calling a donor a steward puts the weight of your mission on their shoulders. Inviting them to partner puts you in it together. That one shift changes how your board reaches out, how your donors feel, and how much your gala raises.

George spent 30+ years as a TV news reporter before becoming a full-time bilingual benefit auctioneer. He brings that storyteller's instinct to every event, along with some blunt advice on what quietly kills gala revenue: a bar next to the stage, a run of show that goes 40 minutes over, and fundraising that drags past 9 PM.

You'll also hear:

Why fund-a-need should bring in about 70% of your event revenue

The simplest fix when your board won't fundraise

Why energy equals enthusiasm equals dollars, in a straight line

How one event sets up attendance and giving for the next one

Why the auctioneer is the least important person in the room

CHAPTERS

00:00 Intro

00:36 Why real and personal fundraising works now

02:17 More money than ever, and donors can smell BS

03:21 Your board's circle of influence

05:05 Energy equals enthusiasm equals dollars

05:23 Have you told your board what to say

06:05 Find who actually makes the decisions

07:38 Personal stories beat AI form letters

09:18 Stop stewarding donors. Partner with them.

12:09 Reframe the ask as an invite

12:38 From TV news to the Good News Auctioneer

14:06 A renaissance in nonprofit events

14:56 Bringing auctions to new cultural communities

16:08 Beat analysis paralysis one step at a time

17:08 Joshua's Wish and the mom and pop nonprofit

18:14 Stepping stones: software, run of show, short speeches

20:25 Fundraising is harder, but the tools are there

21:27 Every event sets up the next one

23:12 Respect your nonprofit

24:47 The bow tie lesson

25:37 Rapid fire: wrap fundraising by 9 PM

26:12 Fund-a-need vs. live auction: the 70/30 split

26:44 A $25,000 ask in Spanish

27:14 How to reach George

27:45 The auctioneer is the echo for your cause

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Book George for Your Event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com/auctioneers/george-franco

Connect with George on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-franco-18774a64/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Your live auction is not stealing from your fund a need. Benefit auctioneer, coach, and game show host Seth Weiner (Your Rocktioneer, out of Atlanta) sits down with Trevor to take apart the myths and habits costing nonprofits money before, during, and after the event.

Seth's whole approach starts on the front end. He shares the worksheet system he uses to work backwards from a fundraising goal, break it down by revenue stream, and pressure-test whether the number is realistic months out. He explains why walking into an event with a bird in the hand matters, why loading six consignment items into your live auction is usually a mistake, and how a golden ticket can put a bucket-list trip in front of 150 guests at $100 each instead of selling it once.

The conversation moves into the part most events neglect: sponsorship and stewardship. Seth makes the case for treating sponsors as partners with a real ROI rather than logos on a banner, how to ask for more in a tighter giving climate without projecting your own budget onto donors, and why you should thank a donor seven times before you ask for anything. He also shares a free post-event toolkit with scripts and follow-up stats.

Then the data. Seth breaks down his underbidder spotter concept, which he calls seven-seven: seven paddles up at $7,000 is seven donors you just identified. He shows how to use bidding behavior, silent auction test items, and board paddle data to build both next year's event and next year's major donors.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:44 Catching up: music, travel, and New Orleans

03:35 Meet Seth Weiner, the coaching auctioneer

07:56 Why cheap trips and cheap auctioneers don't raise money

10:05 Being deliberate with your live auction

11:14 Working backwards from your fundraising goal

16:15 Asking for more in a tougher giving climate

18:16 Giving sponsors a real ROI

20:13 Turning sponsors into partners

24:25 Thank donors seven times before you ask

25:15 The free post-event stewardship toolkit

26:41 The underbidder spotter and the seven-seven

29:15 Drop a trip in the silent auction to test demand

30:52 Using board data to coach the paddle raise

31:43 The live auction doesn't steal from your fund a need

33:39 Why Seth runs the fund a need first

36:22 Rapid fire: stewardship, overthinking, and negotiating

40:25 Where to find Seth

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Book Seth for Your Next Event: https://www.yourrocktioneer.com/home1

Connect with Seth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shimoner/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most nonprofits treat auction software as a checkout tool. Mo treats it as a donor intelligence system. She covers why mobile bidding isn't too hard for older donors, the auto-close setting almost nobody turns on, the text message that can sell out a raffle in two minutes, and the platform fees quietly costing you donors. Then the real goldmine: the losing bidders and fund-a-need gifts sitting in your data after the event, and how to turn them into next year's major donors.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:15 Is mobile bidding too hard for older donors?

02:59 The concierge desk (and the sponsorship hiding in it)

04:39 The truth about paper backup

05:33 Paper recorders: your fund-a-need audit trail

06:42 The auction setting almost nobody turns on

07:26 Using text messages to create urgency

09:09 You don't need the priciest software

11:01 Platform fees are costing you donors

11:53 The item detail every org overlooks

13:18 The most common Saturday-night panic call

14:30 Reselling popular trips after bidding ends

16:08 The hidden donors in your losing bids

17:37 Why Mo does this and how to get her help

19:49 HGA uploads your auction items at no cost

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Morgan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-hughes-433160a9/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Have questions for Morgan? Email her: morgan@hgafundraising.com

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

The bid paddle has exactly one job: let the auctioneer identify the bidder number quickly and correctly. Get that right and it worked. Get it wrong, with cursive lettering, a busy background, or so many sponsor logos it looks like a NASCAR, and every other feature on it is wasted.

In this episode, Xavier of Imprint Items sits down with Trevor to unpack the design decisions behind a paddle that actually functions. You'll learn why big, bold, high-contrast numbers beat every other design choice, why the handle is the smart place for a QR code or sponsor logo instead of the face of the paddle, why every element on the paddle should earn its spot with a clear purpose, and how color-coded paddles can quietly recognize VIPs, monthly givers, and legacy donors without saying a word.

Xavier also makes the case that a well-designed custom paddle does double duty: guests keep them as souvenirs tied to the memory of the event, and a sponsor who pays to put their logo on the handle turns the paddle from an expense line into a source of revenue.If you plan galas, benefit auctions, or paddle raises, this is a practical look at a small detail that has an outsized effect on how smoothly your live auction runs.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:24 Meet Xavier and Imprint Items

01:41 Why the bid paddle is a science

02:39 The one job: readable numbers, high contrast

03:53 Don't get too fancy: cursive, QR codes, and NASCAR paddles

05:16 What belongs on the back vs. the handle

06:39 QR codes: only with a purpose

07:28 Beyond paddles: banners, table covers, event swag

09:56 Color-coded paddles to recognize VIPs and legacy donors

12:30 Turning a paddle expense into sponsor revenue

13:06 Where to find Xavier

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Check out Imprint Items website: https://www.imprintitems.com

Connect with Xavier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xavier-roy-3ab83b289/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow

Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most nonprofit revenue arrives restricted. Grants, endowments, and foundation gifts usually come earmarked for a specific use. Live auction income is the exception: it's unrestricted, which means it's the one line on your budget you can point at operations, staff salaries, or wherever the need is greatest.

In this episode, Marty Murad of Murad Auctions unpacks the insight that stopped Trevor in his tracks, then gets tactical: how to back into your live auction goal with real per-item math, why selling a consignment package multiple times is the gold standard for maximizing value, and why professional bid spotters are worth their weight in gold instead of untrained volunteers.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:18 The LinkedIn post that started this

01:05 Why live auctions create unrestricted funds

02:34 Finding the right packages: ask your top donors where they travel

03:51 Backing into your goal with live auction math

04:51 The gold standard: selling packages multiple times

06:18 Does the live auction rob your fund-a-need?

08:34 The worst question to ask an auctioneer

09:21 How bid spotters add 200% more fundraisers to the room

11:47 Consignment: expense or cost of goods sold?

12:54 Where to find Marty

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Book Murad Auctions for your event: https://muradauctions.com

Connect with Marty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helpingnon-profitsraisemoremoneyatevents/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Fundraising events don't plateau because the market got harder. They plateau because the organization goes quiet for twelve months and then asks for a table. In this episode of Hey Nonprofits!, Trevor sits down with Kat Leitner of Heron & Co. Design and Events (formerly Alora Events) to unpack what actually separates the galas raising seven figures from the ones stuck at the same number year after year.

Kat makes the case for treating donor engagement as a 365-day development strategy that begins eight months before the event: identifying who you want in the room, why they connect to the mission, and what they'll see, hear, and feel on the night. She breaks down pre-commitment conversations (the Erin Kenzel approach to securing gifts before guests arrive), mission generators that give every attendee a way to participate regardless of giving level, and the impact video moment during the live program that most organizations waste.

You'll also hear the data behind why events still work, Nathan Chappell's finding that attending three consecutive events is the greatest determinant of lifelong major giving, how corporate sponsorship expectations have evolved from pre-COVID logo visibility to today's relationship-driven partnerships, why social media has quietly faded as a fundraising priority, and the simple post-event feedback question that turns one-time sponsors into repeat supporters.Whether you're an executive director, development director, board member, or event planner, this conversation is a specific, tactical look at building donor relationships that compound year over year.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:28 "Do less to do more": Kat's 2026 fundraising philosophy

02:28 The ED's only job at a gala (stop worrying about the DJ)

03:40 Who's on your bus? Building the right fundraising team

05:28 Why $1M events beat $20K events: year-round engagement

07:12 Breaking the 300-guest, $250K plateau

09:44 Pre-commitment conversations that lock in gifts early

11:45 Mission generators: a giving level for everyone in the room

13:38 The data: 3 consecutive events makes a major donor

17:19 The impact video moment you're wasting

19:00 Custom sponsorships built backward from the goal

21:02 How sponsorships changed after COVID

22:19 Why social media is fading in fundraising

25:01 Don't make fundraising harder by procrastinating

27:33 The post-event question most planners skip

30:03 Differentiation over competition: be the pink elephant

31:23 Where to find Kat & Heron & Co.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Heron & Co. Design: https://heronandcoevent.com

Connect with Kat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katleitner/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most nonprofits chase a celebrity two months before their gala, email an agent, ask about money, and wonder why they get ghosted.Afam Onyema has spent 19 years doing the opposite. As CEO of the GEANCO Foundation, he has brought Oprah, Daniel Craig, Charize Theron, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Prince Harry and Meghan into the work of saving and transforming lives in Nigeria. In this episode he breaks down exactly how, and almost none of it is about asking for a check.The core idea: celebrities want to help, but the ask is usually terrible. It leads with money, it is transactional, and it is rushed. Afam walks Trevor through the ask that actually works: build the relationship first, ask on behalf of the people you serve, and offer the one thing that costs the celebrity nothing but raises you millions, which is access. Set visits, premiere tickets, and time with your donors turn a "no" into a repeatable revenue stream.Whether you run a soup kitchen in Toledo or a national foundation, there is a local athlete, actor, or executive within 100 miles of you who has never been asked the right way. This is how you ask.CHAPTERS00:00 Intro00:48 Afam's story: Nigeria to Chicago02:47 Turning down corporate law to save lives04:04 Why the Bay Area made GEANCO possible05:34 Access: the fundraising pillar you're ignoring06:41 Why transactional asks fail (it takes years, not weeks)07:52 Be fearless: you're asking on behalf of the cause11:20 Celebrities are human. Direct them like a director.12:40 Find the hometown celebrity nobody asks15:15 The ask that costs them $0 and raises millions18:07 Think outside the box: Nike, premieres, CharityBuzz20:58 Go deep, not broad26:33 How much outreach is too much?28:55 Everyone you know should know you're doing this29:22 Say what you do in one sentence31:26 Lead with story. Vulnerability is a superpower.34:58 How to reach Afam🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Connect with Afam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/afam-onyema-1164182/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most nonprofits lose donors after the first gift and blame it on competition or a tight economy. It's usually neither. It's follow-up.Trevor Nelson sits down with philanthropic advisor Brittany Morrison to break down why donors give once and disappear, and the specific relationship moves that bring them back. From getting to know a donor before their balance sheet, to what to do the Monday after your event, to why asking for more isn't greedy, this one is a playbook for keeping the donors you already have.What you'll take away:Why the biggest missed opportunity in fundraising happens after the event, not during itHow to approach high-capacity donors without the fear they can smellWhy the sponsor kit is costing you sponsors, and what to send insteadHow to ask an existing donor for more without damaging the relationshipWhy your best next donor is already in your databaseChapters:00:00 Meet Brittany Morrison, Bespoke Advisory02:00 The mindset shift: capacity vs. aligned values03:46 Approaching high-net-worth donors: invitation, not obligation05:51 The biggest pitfalls and put-offs in the ask07:20 "Donors can smell your fear"08:38 Should you share your long-term plan?11:05 Events as a cracked door: the post-event follow-up gap14:40 Differentiation is stronger than competition18:56 Transacting vs. stewarding20:31 Getting the right people in the room23:25 Beyond the sponsor kit26:40 Why it's OK to ask for more, year over year29:33 Your best donors are already in your phone🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Connect with Brittany on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-morrison-b3b46138/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most nonprofits think they're over-marketing their gala. They're not even close.Laurie from Auctria joins Trevor to break down what she calls the 85-Asset Rule — the number of marketing pieces one of her top-performing event planners uses to promote a single fundraising night. And the trick isn't creating 85 things from scratch. It's building one core mission, one core message, one core graphic, and multiplying it across every channel your donors touch.In this episode: why the nonprofits raising the most money treat their mission like a brand, how to build a network of "ambassadors" who cut through the noise your emails can't, why three social posts a day is not too much, and the case for stopping your Saturday-night gala habit and moving it to a Monday.Plus: Laurie's take on why donors are getting sharper at spotting BS, what the software team at Auctria is rolling out this fall, and why your fundraising software should never send you to a chatbot.🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Interested in Auctria for Your Event: https://www.auctria.comConnect with Laurie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-hochman-92095626/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Every year it's the same fire drill - cold-calling local businesses, guessing at starting bids, and crossing your fingers that this year's silent auction table looks better than last year's. It doesn't have to be this way.In this 30 minute Summer Session, we'll be discussing: Why the "ask local businesses" playbook burns out your best volunteers - and what actually fills your auction table without the scramble.The bundling trick that turns a pile of disconnected donations into a package people fight over.The starting-bid formula that gets your items sold at what they're actually worth.🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Book Murad Auctions for Your Event: https://muradauctions.comSchedule a Meeting with Claire: https://calendly.com/clairemuradConnect with Claire on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-murad-strategic-growth-for-nonprofit-fundraising-events/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Easiest Way to Raise More Money at Your Next Event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Four nonprofits in a row told Jordan Agolli the same thing about their previous auctioneer: they felt like the person with the microphone cared more about themselves than the mission.Jordan, a benefit auctioneer and MC based out of Atlanta, joins Trevor to break down what he's hearing from organizations interviewing him, why the line between confidence and cockiness on stage is thinner than most people think, and the rule he lives by: an auctioneer should only say their own name twice all night. Once at the intro, once at the close.In this episode: what to actually ask an auctioneer or MC before you hire them, why the person benefiting from the mission is a more powerful speaker than anyone with a microphone, how strong board involvement changes the ceiling of your fundraising night, and Jordan's blunt reminder to every auctioneer in the space, this event would happen with or without you.Plus: Jordan's own story of losing five years to a back injury, rebuilding from scratch, and coming back to the stage with less ego and more listening.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:49 Building Connections in the Nonprofit Space05:04 Jordan's Journey into Auctioneering13:55 Overcoming Challenges and Health Struggles17:55 Understanding Nonprofit Culture and Values21:47 Importance of Alignment in Event Planning23:19 The Power of Listening in Fundraising27:41 Understanding the Mission: The Key to Success30:41 Marketing Strategies for Nonprofits36:02 Connecting with the Community🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Book Jordan for Your Event: https://www.jordanagolli.comConnect with Jordan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-agolli/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most fundraisers think of check-in as a hospitality problem. Livia Christensen and Chris O'Shea of C2 Auctions think it's a fundraising problem and they have the data to prove it.Livia and Chris manage guest lists and staff registration for some of the biggest galas in the country. Every event, they see the same pattern: the organizations that treat check-in as an afterthought lose donors before their auctioneer ever takes the stage. In this episode, they walk through the three things that make or break a gala check-in and why most orgs get all three wrong.In this episode: why putting your advancement team at the registration table is the worst use of their most valuable hour, the ratio of registration staff to guests you should actually be planning for (and why alphabetical check-in lines are always a mistake), what a clean guest list signals to your donors about how you'll steward their money, why "guest of" fields on your list are a red flag for the whole night, the credit-card-on-file threshold you should hit before your event starts (Chris's team benchmarks at 40%), and why free auction software almost always costs more than paid…one line that will save some organizations thousands.Plus: the peak-end principle from behavioral psychology and how it should shape the last touchpoint your guest has before they leave the room.00:00 Intro00:49 Overview of Check-In and Check-Out08:30 Importance of a Clean Guest List21:00 Final Thoughts and Best Practices26:55 Streamlining Check-In/Check-Out Processes30:05 Role of Hospitality in Event Success🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Hire Chris & Livia for Your Event: https://c2auctions.netConnect with Livia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/livia-christensen-8779983/Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-o-shea-38604181/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most fundraising events are planned like logistics problems. Rick Toone plans them like Hollywood shoots them.

Rick spent 20 years in Los Angeles as an art director and lighting designer for A-list clients — Ridley Scott, David Fincher, over 50 Super Bowl commercials, an Emmy nomination, Whitney Houston's first lighting designer. Then he moved to Mexico, joined a nonprofit, and grew its gala from $70K to $300K in three years. Now he runs a company called Run of Show Playbook, and this episode is a walk through the Hollywood-trained framework he applies to nonprofit galas.

In this episode: why every gala needs a script before the venue, menu, or flowers get booked, why you should never say "thank you" at your event (and when to say it instead), the three types of donors in every room — habit, heart, and head — and how to write for all three, why the audience is the hero of the story and not the mission, how the best interruptions come from the water-cooler conversations your staff has that never make it into the messaging, and the difference between telling a story and building a messaging arc.

Plus: what a 56-take Kevin Costner beer commercial can teach you about scripting your next paddle raise.

Chapters:00:00 Intro01:01 Living the Dream in Mexico

05:18 The Power of Listening

06:51 From Hollywood to Fundraising

11:09 The Importance of Messaging

15:48 Interrupting the Loop in Fundraising

21:05 The Importance of Audience Engagement

22:44 Balancing Heroes: Audience vs Mission

26:19 The Role of Impact in Fundraising

28:27 Stories from Hollywood: Lessons Learned

31:54 The Value of Honest Feedback and Audience Understanding

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Work with Rick on Your Next Event: https://www.runofshowplaybook.com

Connect with Rick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ricktoone/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most CEOs of nonprofits have opinions about boards. Christy Casey-Moore has a 100% give rate and a $1.2M gala to back hers up.

Christy is the CEO of Heart Gift, a global nonprofit that brings children from other countries to the United States for life-saving heart surgeries they can't access at home. Ten years in, she joins Trevor to walk through what it actually takes to build a board that fundraises, a team that supports each other under real pressure, and an event that clears seven figures.

In this episode: why Christy can spot a hiring fit in the first five minutes of an interview, how she structures her board around give-or-get with no resume builders allowed, the controversial thing she tells nonprofits about marketing spend ("put your seatbelt on"), why she doesn't seat major donors at her own table on gala night, the exact job she hands her board members the moment they walk into the event, and why she stopped thanking donors in the moment during the auction — and started catching them later instead.

Plus: what Christy does the Monday morning after every gala that most CEOs don't.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

01:15 Christy Casey-Moore and HeartGift Foundation

02:09 Board Engagement and Organizational Culture

04:06 Entrepreneurship and Nonprofit Leadership Symmetry

05:17 About HeartGift and Its Mission

06:42 Team Size, Hiring Lessons, and Culture Fit

10:27 Supportive Organizational Culture

14:09 Building a Unicorn Board

18:17 Event Night Responsibilities and Strategies

22:06 Missions Clarity and Marketing Investment

27:04 Leadership, Listening, and Continuous Learning

31:00 Evolution of Fundraising and Donor Engagement

37:14 Post-Event Follow-up and Gratitude

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Christy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christycaseymoore/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Easiest way to raise more money in your next event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Need an auctioneer for your next event: https://charityauctioneerswelove.com

Most fundraising galas leave money on the table for reasons the people running them never see.

Chris Hensley and Brett Higgins, two of the most in-demand fundraising auctioneers in the country, join Trevor to work through five of the sharpest questions raised at the recent Chicago Gala Playbook event. What separates the organizations that consistently overperform from the ones that stay stuck at last year's number? Where does the fundraising actually break down in a program? And what does it look like to create inspiration to give without slipping into pressure?

In this episode: the six-month mistake most nonprofits make (spoiler, it involves ignoring the data from last year's event), why "we don't want to ask for too much money" is almost always a symptom of a past bad experience, the difference between pressure and inspiration and when each has a place, the concept of "unspoken peer pressure" and how leaders in the room quietly move giving upward, why the witching hour at 9:15pm is real and what to do about your program timing, and the one thing organizations overestimate every year (the room, the dinner, the linens) versus the one thing that actually moves revenue.

Plus: why Chris raised $1.2M against a $400K goal at a Relevant Radio event, and what "taking the lid off" the top ask can look like when the room is emotionally ready.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

01:41 Gala Playbook in Chicago

09:25 Data-Driven Fundraising

18:25 The Art of Asking

23:00 Creating Inspiration to Give Instead of Pressure

32:09 Creating a Unique Experience for Fundraising Events

38:09 The Right Places to Focus

43:32 One Piece of Advice You Would Give to a Nonprofit

45:54 Bonus

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Book Brett for Your Event: https://www.bretthiggins.com

Book Chris for Your Event: https://www.bidraisebid.com/chrishensley

Connect with Brett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bretthiggins/

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hensley-auctions/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

The Easiest Way to Raise More Money at Your Next Event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Most nonprofits spend months curating the perfect live auction lineup — and then assume their guests will figure it out when they get to the event.

Claire Murad of Murad Auctions joins Trevor to make the case that this is leaving serious money on the table. With 26 years in the auction space, Claire breaks down what she calls the 6-touch rule: your guests need to see your live auction items at least six times before they sit down for the live auction. Anything less and the light bulb doesn't go off in time.

In this episode: why 75% of your event revenue is riding on a marketing problem most orgs ignore, the exact timeline for teasing items (two weeks out — not earlier, not later), why text messages outperform emails and what time of day to actually hit send, how to make your pre-event messaging short and on-theme instead of stuffed with restrictions, and the creative night-of tactics Claire has seen work — from Vanna White-style placard walkers in cocktail hour to 10-foot lit display boards to custom bid paddles with QR codes linking to the auction catalog.

Plus: why your auctioneer should be working the cocktail hour, not warming up backstage.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:36 Successful Auction Promotion

05:30 Timing for Teaser Campaigns

06:55 Keeping Messages Brief and Engaging

07:35 Creative Promotional Ideas During Your Event

09:00 Using Visual Displays and On-Site Promotion

12:13 Educating Bidders Early

13:30 Using Social Media and Digital Tools

14:29 Where to Find More Resources and Connect

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Marketing Your Live Auction Blog: https://muradauctions.com/how-to-promote-your-live-auction-for-maximum-revenue/

Live Auction eBook: https://muradauctions.com/auction-resources/live-auction-theme-playbook/

Book Murad Auctions for Your Event: https://muradauctions.com

Schedule a Meeting with Claire: https://calendly.com/clairemurad

Connect with Claire on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-murad-strategic-growth-for-nonprofit-fundraising-events/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here:  https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:  

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Most nonprofits have a storytelling problem they don't know they have. They've been so close to the mission for so long they can't see what's actually moving about it anymore.

Lucas Hunt, president of Hunt Auctioneers, former literary agent, and one of the more thoughtful voices in the fundraising auctioneer world, joins Trevor to break down why the people running your organization are usually the worst people to tell its story, why donors should be treated as producers of the story rather than consumers of it, and how to build what he calls a "theater of giving" at your next event.

In this episode: the "curse of knowledge" that's flattening your mission moments, why the recipient of services is almost always a more powerful narrator than the executive director, how to create emotional proximity in a room full of distracted donors, and Lucas's closing reminder for anyone burned out on fundraising, get out of the way of the river of goodness that's already there.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:37 Introduction to Lucas Hunt

06:55 Art of Story Telling in Fundraising

09:14 Impact of Information Overload on Storytelling

15:58 Creating Emotional Proximity at Events

17:57 Power of Storytelling

22:40 Producer vs. Consumer Mindset

27:23 Faith in Good Work

32:04 Power of Collective Action

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Book Lucas for an event: https://www.huntauctioneers.com

Connect with Lucas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucas-hunt-6a6a768/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here:  https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:  

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Brittany Pilcher, Director of Development at Quest Inc., joins Trevor to walk through exactly how her team added a Golden Ticket Raffle to WineQuest , a $500,000 two-night gala in Orlando and sold out 100 tickets in 72 hours.

Brittany doesn't sugarcoat the hesitation. She talks through why she almost didn't do it, the moment she decided to pull the trigger three weeks out, and how the raffle pulled in nearly $8,000 of pure incremental revenue without adding meaningful work to her team. More importantly: she breaks down what she'd do differently next year, including running two ticket tiers and considering corporate underwriting to cover the cost upfront.

In this episode: why the $100 price point is the sweet spot, when to announce the winner in your program (and when not to), how to get your board and committee actually sharing the raffle, and the part most organizations miss, the 100 new names in your database that you can steward long after the event.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

01:00 Introduction to the Golden Ticket

02:18 Hesitations and Strategies for Ticket Sales

06:01 Psychology of Ticket Sales and Winner Announcement 

08:49 Impact of the Golden Ticket on Fundraising

10:49 Quest Inc.: Mission and Community Engagement

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Add the Golden Ticket to Your Event: https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

Connect with Brittany on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanylara/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here:  https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:  

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Most fundraising problems aren't fundraising problems. They're board problems.

Elise Woodworth — VMI alum, Air Force veteran, and author of Business Not Battle — joins Trevor to unpack why so many nonprofit boards stall out, and what to actually do about it. She came to this work through a back door (the VMI Foundation made her their first female and youngest-ever trustee), and her approach is unusual: instead of teaching EDs how to manage their boards, she teaches board members how to be effective in the first place.

In this episode: the 20-minute Champion's Elevator Pitch exercise you can run at your next meeting, the four thoughtful questions that move a stuck organization forward, why Elise refuses to say the word "fundraising" with new boards, and her four-month blueprint for turning around a burned-out board.

If you've ever said "I can't get my board to fundraise," this one's for you.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro00:55 Understanding Strength and Strategic Mindset05:45 Journey into Nonprofit Leadership11:14 Empowering Board Members14:53 Embracing Change for Growth18:37 Aligning Mission and Leadership19:19 The Champion's Elevator Pitch24:11 Transforming Fear into Invitation30:35 Passion for Nonprofit Impact

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Connect with Elise on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisewoodworth/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Most fundraisers treat events like the finish line. Kristen Bowles treats them like the starting point.

In this episode, Trevor sits down with Kristen — a development pro who's worked across the YMCA, Boys & Girls Club, peer-to-peer fundraising, and now the National MS Society — to unpack why sponsorship sales isn't transactional. It's strategic matchmaking.

We get into:

• Why "plan, post, and pray" is killing your sponsor retention
• The mindset shift from "sponsor of an event" to "investor in your mission"
• How to segment donors by engagement, not dollar amount (and why a $100 donor might be your next major gift)
• Mission nuggets: the research habit every frontline fundraiser needs
• Free tools Kristen uses to research sponsors (hint: it's not a fancy database)
• Why events are really about how you make people feel

If you're a frontline fundraiser, event planner, or auctioneer, this one's full of takeaways you can use Monday morning.

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Connect with Kristen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-mckay-bowles/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

What if the timing of your "ask" is costing your nonprofit thousands?

Matt Roben — the Kilted Auctioneer, former circus performer, and police officer turned fundraising auctioneer, joins Trevor to break down the neuroscience behind why people give, and why most galas are leaving money on the table by asking too late in the night.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:59 Introing Matt Roben

02:38 Understanding the Auctioneer's Role

04:15 The Neuroscience of Giving

08:40 Data-Driven Fundraising Insights

12:34 Engaging Donors in Real-Time

17:20 Post-Event Gratitude Strategies

20:16 Building Genuine Connections with Donors

21:51 Utilizing Matching Gifts Effectively

26:40 Rapid-Fire Fundraising TipsHave a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Book Matt for your next event: https://www.thekiltedauctioneer.com/

Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-roben/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Most nonprofits measure events by one number: how much they raised. Emily Preble thinks that's the wrong starting point.Emily is a fundraising consultant and professional auctioneer based in Austin, and in this episode she walks through the question she asks every client before planning an event — and it has nothing to do with the goal. Trevor and Emily get into why more attendees doesn't mean more money, how to turn corporate-table guests into lifelong donors, the post-event gratitude strategy most orgs skip, and the research-backed reason three consecutive events matter more than almost anything else you'll do.Chapters: 00:00 Intro00:37 Celebrating Tom: The Heart of Our Team03:37 Emily Preble: A Passion for Fundraising05:03 The Role of Consulting in Nonprofit Success07:05 Understanding Event Goals Beyond Fundraising09:01 Engaging New Attendees and Building Lasting Relationships14:08 Reviving Energy in Fundraising Events18:14 Importance of Community and Connection21:33 Long-Term Goals in Fundraising 24:25 Gratitude and Recognition27:00 Rapid Fire Insights on Fundraising30:45 Closing Thoughts and Future ConnectionsHave a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Book Emily for an event: https://www.emilyprebleauctions.com/Connect with Emily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilypreble/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Most nonprofits think more silent auction items = more money. Phil Sanger has spent 15+ years proving the opposite.

In this episode, Phil, founder of HelloFund and an OG in the fundraising tech space since 2009, joins Trevor to break down what's actually working at galas right now and what's quietly killing revenue.

We cover:

→ Why the "espresso machine in the silent auction" mindset is costing you donors

→ The bid paddle mistake auctioneers hate (and the better way to land that sponsorship)

→ Closing your silent auction AFTER the event — and why it's making orgs more money

→ Using the silent auction to test future live auction items (and identify new major donors)

→ The check-in data you need 3 days before your event to avoid a slow line at the door

→ Why nonprofit turnover is leading to "paralysis by analysis" — and how to lead through it

→ "Software works WITH people, not instead of them" — what AI actually means for fundraisers

Whether you're raising $25K or $1M+ at your next gala, this one's worth your time.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro

00:33 The Role of Software in Nonprofits

02:52 Phil Sanger's Journey and HelloFund

06:27 Challenges in the Nonprofit Sector

07:33 Leadership and Decision-Making in Nonprofits

11:08 Simplifying Processes for Better Outcomes

14:36 Maximizing Auction Effectiveness

16:28 Silent Auction Strategies

22:00 Streamlining Check-In and Check-Out

24:49 Closing Silent Auctions for More Revenue

26:46 Final Thoughts and Future Opportunities

28:35 BONUSHave a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Phil's Website HelloFund: https://www.hellofund.com/

Connect with Phil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philsanger/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Rob Giardinelli has attended over 2,000 fundraising galas. In this episode, he breaks down what actually moves donors to give more, why "events are dead" is bad advice, and the guest experience details most nonprofits completely miss.Rob is the founder of robgiardinelli.com and host of the Fun in Fundraising podcast. After 15 years chronicling top galas across Texas and the country, he advises nonprofits on optimizing the guest experience—the gap between what event planners and auctioneers do.What you'll learn:Why post-COVID donors are more selective and how to earn their timeThe 3-legged stool every successful gala needs (and how to spot when it's broken)Why messaging has to happen in the room, not just in the inviteHow major gifts, development, and gala teams should actually work togetherThe real determiner of whether someone becomes a lifelong supporterWhy "what works in Houston won't work in Austin" (and what that means for your event)Chapters:00:00 Like & Subscribe :)00:45 Trevor and Rob catch up03:49 Rob's path from tech to fundraising08:39 What's changed about donors since COVID11:03 Why every city fundraises differently14:08 Treat your gala like a business17:20 "Events are dead" pushback24:30 STOP competing internally26:55 How to get the messaging right31:22 3-events rule for lifelong donors33:12 Rob's advice: don't make fundraising harder than it needs to beHave a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Check out Rob's podcast: https://funinfundraising.podbean.com/

Connect with Rob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgiardinelli/Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Max Wolf has spent nearly a decade auctioneering fundraising events, and he's seen the patterns that separate the galas that crush it from the ones that fall flat.

In this episode, Max and Trevor get into:

– How one event lost 65% of its fundraising by replacing the paddle raise with self-checkout text-to-give

– The question every nonprofit needs to answer honestly: "Is this a party or a fundraiser?"

– Why a 20-minute mission speaker can sink your entire night (and the cake analogy that explains why)

– The "fishing moment" that quietly raises an extra $5K — $100K above your anchor gift

– Why volunteer auctioneers are the real competition, not other pros — and when that math actually changes

– The biggest shift Max has seen post-COVID and what it means for your event strategy

Plus, Max is giving away his Auction Playbook for free — built from 10 years of seeing what works and what doesn't.

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Max on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wolfauctiongroup/

Book Max for an Event: https://www.wolfauctiongroup.com/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Are consignment items hurting your nonprofit auction — or are you leaving serious money on the table by not using them?In this episode, Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising auctioneer Dan Lyles to set the record straight about consignment travel packages in nonprofit fundraising.Together they break down what actually works, what to avoid, and how to double (or even triple) your live auction revenue without cannibalizing your Fund a Need.What you'll learn:- What consignment actually is (and the working definition every nonprofit should know)- How to sell the same item multiple times in one live auction- Why consignment doesn't steal from your fund-a-need- How to structure a 5-7 item live auction for maximum revenue- The "no exposure" model — and why there's no risk if items don't sell- Red flags when choosing a consignment partner- How to use consignment items to identify new mid-level and major donors- Why the donor experience post-event matters more than the sale itself- How to market consignment items pre-event to pack the room with ready buyersChapters:00:00 Intro00:37 Setting the Stage for Consignment Conversations03:30 Understanding Consignment: Definitions and Examples06:57 The Role of Consignment in a Fundraising Event10:10 Maximizing Auction Success with Consignment Items13:58 No Risk, No Exposure: The Benefits of Consignment19:53 Identifying Potential Bidders and Auction Strategies25:32 The Importance of Donor Experience28:25 Choosing the Right Consignment Partner38:30 Using Experiences as Marketing Tools42:25 BONUSHave a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/Book Dan for your event: https://danlylesauctions.com/Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Most nonprofit events run too long — and it's costing you donations.

In this webinar, event strategist Reggie Rivers and expert auctioneer Matt Roben break down why shorter, more focused events consistently raise more money than marathon galas. Reggie shares the neuroscience behind donor attention spans, why 9 PM is the critical cutoff for fundraising asks, and how his organization increased revenue by cutting their event time in half.

Matt and Reggie also tackle sponsorship models that actually work (hint: stop giving away free tickets), how to structure your timeline so fundraising happens at peak engagement, and why charging for tickets — even with a sliding scale — leads to better results.

If you've been running 4-hour events and wondering why energy (and donations) tank halfway through, this session will change how you plan your next gala.

*Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover?* Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

*CONNECT WITH REGGIE RIVERS*

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reggierivers/

🌐 Website: https://thegalateam.com/

✉️ reggie@thegalateam.com

*CONNECT WITH MATT ROBEN*

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-roben/

🌐 Website: https://www.iammatt.com/

✉️ me@iammatt.com

🔑 *What You'll Learn:*

✅ Why shorter events raise more money (backed by neuroscience)

✅ The 9 PM rule: when donor attention and generosity peak

✅ How to structure your event timeline for maximum fundraising impact

✅ Why giving away free tickets hurts your revenue (and what to do instead)

✅ Sliding scale ticket pricing that increases participation without devaluing your event

✅ Sponsorship models that generate revenue without endless sponsor recognition

✅ How to manage room transitions and noise without losing donor engagement

✅ The optimal order for mission moments, paddle raises, and live auctions

✅ Pre-event engagement strategies that prime donors to give before they arrive

✅ Post-event follow-up that converts attendees into recurring supporters

✅ How to promote auction items so they actually drive competitive bidding

*Chapters*

00:00 Introduction and Special Mentions

02:00 Reggie Rivers' Experience and Event Success

03:08 Introduction of Panelists: Reggie Rivers and Matt Roben

06:18 Why Shorter Events Increase Fundraising Effectiveness

09:45 Timing of Fundraising and Engagement Peaks

13:45 Using Neuro Science to Enhance Donations

16:40 Ticket Pricing and Value Perception

19:00 The Power of Charging for Tickets

26:10 Post-Event Follow-up and Donor Engagement

31:10 Managing Room Transitions and Audience Attention

35:16 Innovative Sponsorship and Underwriting Opportunities

42:12 Controlling Room Noise and Engagement

48:04 Live Auction Item Preparation and Presentation

53:00 Advertising and Promoting Auction Items

57:15 Pre-Event Engagement and Donor Preparation

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Hey Nonprofits is the ONLY podcast specifically focused on event fundraising and auction strategy — because someone has to stand up for the gala.

This is Part 2 of the Timed to Perfection Series — a 6-part webinar series built entirely around the #1 question we get from nonprofit event fundraisers:

"How do we nail the timing of our event?"

In this episode, we go deeper into the strategies that separate good fundraising events from great ones — covering everything from donor psychology and technology to the sensory details that make your room feel like a movement.

Spoiler: It's not just about raising money. It's about making donors feel something they want to feel again next year.

🔑 *What You'll Learn:*

✅ Why timing is still the #1 lever in fundraising — and how to protect it

✅ The audience engagement techniques that consistently unlock more donations

✅ Why lengthy speeches are quietly killing your golden hour (and what to do instead)

✅ How to use technology to elevate the donor experience — not distract from it

✅ The peer pressure principle: how the room influences individual giving decisions

✅ How to engineer a sensory experience that builds community and keeps donors coming back

✅ Why audience development has to start months before your event — not weeks

✅ The right way to deploy a matching gift so it creates momentum instead of confusion

✅ How to read your audience and adjust your approach in real time

✅ The post-event follow-up strategy that turns one-time donors into long-term supporters

This is the event fundraising conversation your board, your ED, and your auctioneer all need to hear.

*Connect with Trevor Nelson:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167

🌐 Website: https://hgafundraising.com

*Connect with Mark Schustrin:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markschustrin/

🌐 Website: https://mrkauctions.com/

*Connect with Dan Lyles:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/

🌐 Website: https://danlylesauctions.com/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING*

HGA helps nonprofit event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable — and mission-focused — consignment auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization raise more money.

🔗 Explore auction items: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

🔗 Free fundraising coaching: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

🔗 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Hey Nonprofits is the ONLY podcast specifically focused on event fundraising and auction strategy — because someone has to stand up for the gala.

This is Part 1 of the Timed to Perfection Series — a 6-part webinar series built entirely around the #1 question we get from nonprofit event fundraisers:

"How do we nail the timing of our event?"

In this episode, two of the most in-demand fundraising auctioneers in the country — Jordan Campbell (Atlanta) and Chris Hensley (Chicago) — break down everything that happens before, during, and after your gala that determines how much money you raise.

Spoiler: It's not the 18 minutes on stage. It's the 18 weeks that led up to it.

🔑 *What You'll Learn:*

✅ Why your fundraising window is 60–75 minutes max — and must be done by 9 PM

✅ The "party first, business in the middle, party again" framework that keeps donors engaged

✅ Why audience development is a 4–6 month job — and what that work actually looks like

✅ The table host ambassador model: how 40 table hosts become your most powerful fundraising weapon

✅ The right order: live auction FIRST, then mission moment, then paddle raise — and why it matters

✅ Why the auctioneer needs to be liked before the fund a need even starts

✅ Jordan's lights-off star moment — the single most talked-about fund a need technique

✅ Chris's 4 rules of the live auction that set the tone for the entire room

✅ How to deploy a $100,000 matching gift strategically (not just announce it and hope)

✅ The countdown clock technique that gets 700 people off the cocktail hour and into their seats

✅ AV mistakes that silently cost you $20,000–$30,000 in donations

✅ Why honoring someone with a plaque from the stage is killing your golden hour

✅ The $132 million donor who gave his first gift of $250 at an event in 1994

This is the event fundraising conversation your board, your ED, and your auctioneer all need to hear.

*Connect with Jordan Campbell:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordancampbell-fundraising-auctioneer-nonprofits/

🌐 Website: https://jordan-campbell.net

📞 +1 404-426-2762

✉️ jordan@jordan-campbell.net

*Connect with Chris Hensley:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishensley

🌐 Website: https://www.bidrabbid.com

*Connect with Trevor Nelson:*

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167

🏢 HGA Fundraising: https://hgafundraising.com

*💙 ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING*

HGA helps nonprofit event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable — and mission-focused — consignment auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization raise more money.

🔗 Explore auction items: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-...

🔗 Free fundraising coaching: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-...

🔗 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-...

⏱️ *Chapters:*

00:00 Introduction + AI in Fundraising

08:54 The Importance of Timing in Fundraising Events

11:43 Energy Management During Fundraising

14:24 Common Pitfalls in Fundraising Events

17:31 Structuring Live Auctions for Maximum Impact

20:27 Post-Event Strategies for Silent Auctions

36:48 Strategies to Engage Your Audience

39:48 Paddle Raise Psychology and Auction Dynamics

45:03 Building Rapport in Fundraising

45:55 Creating Excitement in Silent and Online Auctions

48:45 Incorporating Unique Items in Auctions

52:14 Identifying New Donors

56:04 Optimizing Silent Auctions - Quality vs. Quantity

58:27 Promoting Auction Items Effectively

1:01:30 Innovative Revenue Enhancers

Hey Nonprofits is the only podcast specifically focused on event fundraising and auction strategy- because someone has to stand up for the gala. But great events alone won't save your organization if your financial foundation is broken.

In this episode Matt Gardner, Co-founder and CEO of Hiline and host of the Fiscally Awesome podcast, makes the case that nonprofit financial infrastructure isn't just a back-office problem. It's a fundraising problem. A credibility problem. And a mission problem.

If you're an executive director, development director, or nonprofit leader trying to grow your organization and diversify your funding in 2026 this conversation will change how you think about the business of running a nonprofit.

🔑 *What You'll Learn:*

✅ Why the traditional major donor model is aging out and what replaces it.

✅ How clean financial reporting directly impacts your ability to raise more money.

✅ Why "nonprofit" is a tax designation, not a business plan and what that mindset shift unlocks.

✅ The stock gift vs. cash gift gap: average cash gift ~$100 vs. average stock gift ~$7,000–$8,000.

✅ How to accept stock gifts and crypto without the paperwork nightmare (Karen Holden & Infinite Giving).

✅ Donor Acquisition Cost (DAC) and Lifetime Donor Value- the metrics your board should be tracking.

✅ Why outsourcing financial ops frees your ED to focus on the only thing nobody else can do.

✅ How to pitch financial modernization to a skeptical board using language they already speak.

✅ Why auction items are cost of goods sold, not expenses and how GAP principles prove it.

✅ The long-tail return on fundraising events most nonprofits never measure.

✅ Technology tools actually built for nonprofits: QuickBooks, Bill, Ramp, Gusto & more.

✅ Why your donor management database is probably your biggest untapped asset whether you're running a $500K organization or a $5M one.

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH MATT GARDNER * 🔗

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattgardnercpa/

🌐 Website: https://www.hiline.co/

🎙️ Fiscally Awesome Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5122VWEMx6qMKEStwOuWeZ?si=173f4cd3b13b4d29

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HilineHQ

⏱️ *Chapters:*

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

02:02 Matt Gardner's Background and Highline's Mission

07:36 The State of Nonprofit Funding and Diversification

09:02 Building Trust and Financial Infrastructure

12:55 Impact of COVID-19 on Nonprofit Operations

15:53 Cash Sustainability and Investment Strategies

19:33 Frictionless Giving and Donor Experience

23:45 Technology Tools for Nonprofit Finance

28:05 Engaging and Educating Nonprofit Boards

31:02 Auction Costs as Long-term Investments

34:43 Final Thoughts and Connecting with Matt Gardner

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. HGA helps nonprofit event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable — and mission-focused — auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization raise more money.

🔗 Explore auction items: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

🔗 Free fundraising coaching: https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

🔗 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Hey Nonprofits is the ONLY podcast specifically focused on event fundraising and auction strategy — because someone has to stand up for the gala.

Raise more money with our Tuscany auction packages: https://hgafundraising.com/tuscany/ and https://hgafundraising.com/tuscany-villa-for-10/

Nobody understands the gala stage better than Jordan Campbell — Scottish auctioneer, 4-language speaker, gala emcee, and one of the most in-demand fundraising auctioneers in the country. In this episode, Jordan drops a masterclass on the psychology behind a fundraising event that moves people to give generously — and keeps them coming back year after year.

🔑 *What You'll Learn:*

✅ The "emotional roller coaster" run of show framework — and exactly when to schedule your live auction, fund a need & closing moment.

✅ Why Jordan turns the lights OFF during the fund a need (and the peer pressure psychology behind it).

✅ How to use Puccini opera music to open your live auction and instantly raise its perceived value

✅ The reciprocity principle: why what happens in your first 60 minutes determines how much people give.

✅ Why filling tables with sponsor employees can actually HURT your fundraising — and who to invite instead.

✅ How to identify the "connectors" in your community (Malcolm Gladwell's term) and make them your biggest asset.

✅ The data point from Nathan Chappell (The Generosity Crisis) that will change how you think about event retention: the single greatest predictor of a lifelong major donor.

✅ Why Jordan caps himself at 50 events per year — and what that means for YOUR event experience.

If you run galas, benefit auctions, or fundraising events — this one's required listening.

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST* 🔗

🌐 Website: https://jordan-campbell.net

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordancampbell-fundraising-auctioneer-nonprofits/

📞 +1 (404) 426-2762

📧 jordan@jordan-campbell.net

⏱️ *Chapters:*

0:00 Intro: Jordan Campbell, the Scottish auctioneer

1:00 What event fundraising looks like in 2026

3:30 Why nonprofits are bringing event managers in-house

5:00 Smaller, more intentional galas: the trend toward "right bums in right seats"

7:00 How to find your community's connectors (and why sponsors alone aren't enough)

9:30 The concentric circles approach to guest strategy

11:00 New attendees vs. returning donors: what the best galas get right

13:00 Run of show masterclass: how to structure the emotional roller coaster

18:00 Why the auctioneer needs to warm the room BEFORE the fund a need

20:00 Turning the lights off: Jordan's signature fund a need moment

22:00 How to end on a high (and why it matters for next year's attendance)

25:00 The reciprocity principle & first impressions that drive generosity

28:00 "Events are your pipeline" — and the 3-consecutive-events data point

34:00 Why Jordan still feels like a student in this space

36:00 How to reach Jordan

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Most nonprofits are leaving serious money on the table because they're skipping critical pre-event steps that result in fundraising success - like hiring a great auctioneer https://charityauctioneerswelove.com/

That's why we had HGA co-founder, Trevor Nelson, sit down with benefit auctioneer Keith McLane to break down the 3 pre-event pillars you should focus on in order to raise more money.

During the session, we covered:

✅ Why your pre-event prep is make-or-break

✅ How to get your board members actually engaged

✅ Psychology of urgency

✅ How to recognize donors without making it weird

✅ The power having a great auctioneer has on your fundraiser's success

✅ The biggest messaging mistakes nonprofits make

✅ Structuring monthly giving programs to attract new donors

✅ Getting sponsorships when everyone's already been asked

✅ How to recognize donors without it feeling transactional

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Keith McLane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithmclane/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Your best donors aren't strangers—they're the people who already gave to you but stopped.

In this [re-uploaded] episode of Hey Nonprofits! fundraising expert Julie Ordoñez breaks down why chasing new donors is harder than winning back old donors, and shares the exact approach to have those awkward "we miss you" conversations that actually work.

Check out Julie's episode about Daily Habits to Raise More Major Gifts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pAC5ad6pSA

What we cover:

✅ Why lapsed donors are easier (and cheaper) to reactivate than finding new ones

✅ How to get past the awkwardness of reaching out to donors who ghosted you

✅ The scarcity mindset that keeps nonprofits stuck chasing instead of reconnecting

✅ Julie's framework for building donor relationships that last beyond one gift

✅ How to ask past donors for larger gifts without feeling pushy

✅ The role emotional intelligence plays in donor conversations

✅ Practical scripts for re-engagement that feel genuine, not salesy

✅ Why honesty beats perfection when talking to donors who stopped giving

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST* 🔗

🔗 Julie Ordoñez on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieordonez/

🎙️ Subscribe to the Courage Lab Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzrPhkYspcFax4qsLm3cclO6xK-66b5XE&si=kFUFutqYCH9mlI0g

🌐 CourageLab: https://julieordonez.com/

📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌

0:00 Honest Tips for Awkward Donor Moments

1:58 Update Your Old Fundraising Tactics

6:44 Julie’s Path to Fundraising Success

9:13 $5M Raised by Teaching Fundraising

13:54 Change Your Money Mindset Now

16:08 Handle Board Pushback on Big Asks

20:35 Ask Bigger, Get Bigger Donations

22:58 Overcome Fundraising Fear with Courage

26:52 Learn and Grow from Fundraising Wins

29:21 Accountability Leads to Fundraising Success

33:44 Wealthy Donors Want Connection

36:03 Wealthy Donors Struggle Too

40:26 Go Beyond Money with Donor Support

42:12 Honest Fundraising Builds Trust

46:03 Understand Donors Before You Ask

47:58 Rebuild Trust with Past Donors

51:45 Use Silence to Seal the Deal

53:50 Prep for Big Donor Talks

57:19 Engage Your Board Without Asking

59:08 Personal Touches Strengthen Donor Bonds

1:03:11 Don’t Fundraise Alone

1:05:35 Build Confidence to Ask Big

1:09:20 Gratitude Changes Everything

1:11:29 Give More, Receive More

1:15:09 Follow Julie Ordoñez’s Journey

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Trevor sits down with DonorDock's CMO, Rob Burke, to talk about the realities of working in nonprofit fundraising—the stuff that doesn't always make it into the how-to guides.

*Raise $10,000+ with the Golden Ticket:* https://hgafundraising.com/golden-ticket/

We cover a lot of ground here: why recurring giving programs are under-utilized by fundraisers, how stewardship keeps falling to the bottom of the to-do list, and why the nonprofit sector feels so fragmented when it comes to learning and sharing what actually works. Rob talks about building community through podcasts, the importance of investing in your own growth as a leader, and how to set boundaries without the guilt that usually comes with it.

We also get into burnout, something so many fundraisers face today, and how to prevent it before it takes you out. Rob shares his own experience and what he's learned about protecting your energy while still doing work that matters.

Plus, some exciting news about WellTold, an upcoming conference designed to bring nonprofit leaders together. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/welltold-a-nonprofit-storytelling-conference-tickets-1830811770289

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Rob Burke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robjburke/

Hear more from Rob on the Focused Fundraiser Podcast: @FundraisingLab

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Shannon Eason from Everything Gala shares her fundraising event secrets - everything from auction timing, how to just 'go for it' and ask donors for more, building relationships, and the power of video.

During this episode, you'll learn:

- How to overcome the fear of 'the ask'

- Which should come first: the fund a need or live auction

- How to communicate and negotiate with donors effectively

- Where video should be utilized to enhance your event

- How connection to your mission can drive larger donations

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

Consult with Shannon: https://everythinggala.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Shannon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-eason-cai-aare-bas-pri-aab3bb15/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Nikki DeFalco, Vice President of Fundraising at the MS Society, shares how fundraising events are still the best way to build donor pipelines.

There has been a surge recently in the following question: are events still worth it? The answer is, absolutely! Nikki and Trevor met on the podcast to discuss how community engagement, localization, and creating enjoyable experiences for attendees can lead to stronger donor pipelines for any nonprofit.

Their conversation dives into:

- Donor retention

- The significance of feedback in event planning

- Building and leading a fundraising team

- The need for personal connection

- Adapting communication for different generational preferences

Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-questions/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Nikki DeFalco on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikki-defalco-cfre-31b2323/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

This was our podcast with Rob Burke from the Fundraising Lab podcast by Donor Dock. Check out their channel for more fundraising podcasts and powerful conversations like this one.

Watch the original episode here https://youtu.be/1M8WcUAsx_c?si=pZ5WnJ9i-i64BxL7

Rob Burke and Trevor Nelson unpack the real truth behind successful fundraising events, why “fundraising is an AND game, not an OR game,” and how organizations can reduce burnout, retain donors, and design smarter, more intentional events that raise more money.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Donor Dock's CMO, Rob Burke, on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robjburke/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Dan Lyles shares how he has been selling multiples consistently in live auction by using one magic phrase: "who else wants one?".

Reserve the ¡Fiesta en Mexico! trip to use at your next live auction: https://hgafundraising.com/fiesta-en-mexico/

This podcast episode is perfect for auctioneers and nonprofit fundraisers looking to maximize their live auction revenue by getting the most out of each item. Selling multiples isn't easy. Dan Lyles reveals his strategy to sell multiples at any auction event - using HGA's ¡Fiesta en Mexico! package as an example.

Work with Dan Lyles for your next live auction: https://danlylesauctions.com/https://danlylesauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Dan Lyles on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Join Tony, the Auction Guy, as he shares his personal journey into the world of auctioneering. From embracing van life to honing his skills through improv classes, Tony's story is one of continuous growth and exploration.

This episode offers a unique glimpse into the life of an auctioneer, highlighting the importance of trying new things and building connections. Perfect for nonprofit fundraisers and auctioneers looking for inspiration and insight into the auctioneering lifestyle.

Connect your association with the funding of its dreams: https://www.expoauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyrissley/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Trevor Nelson and Sandy Hilsenrath answer fundraising and nonprofit-related questions from the audience and the HGA team.

Submit your questions for our next AMA episode: https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-question

Questions answered:

00:00 What separates nonprofits from consistently grow year over year, from those that stay flat?

02:07 What is the single most important fundraising tool you have?

02:43 If you could reset one misconception nonprofits have about fundraising partners, what would it be?

06:52 What social media platform to find corporate sponsors / partners

08:28 What are some creative ways you've seen nonprofits raise money outside of the traditional methods (i.e. live auction, silent auction, paddle raise)

10:40 What is the most impactful gift you've received on Christmas?

12:07 How to bring up fresh ideas for fundraising when you have stubborn board members stuck in their old ways?

15:05 Best communication practices for the new year

17:30 How would you build a nonprofit "super team" from scratch?

19:12 Which HGA auction items are raising the most amount of money right now?

20:48 If you had one piece of an advice for an event fundraiser, what would it be?

23:41 What's the other magic number for fundraising?

24:37 What are the best industries to target for corporate sponsorships?

28:16 Do you believe in new year's resolutions? And what resolutions would you recommend for nonprofits to have for 2026?

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Sandy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrahilsenrath/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

What if the secret to being a better fundraiser is taking better care of yourself first?

Fear and stress for fundraisers is REAL. In this conversation, fundraising expert and CEO of Practivated, Mallory Erickson, shares how prioritizing your well-being isn't just good for you—it's essential for creating authentic, lasting relationships with donors.

If you're exhausted from transactional fundraising, struggling to build genuine connections, or feeling like you have to sacrifice your health to hit your goals—this episode will give you the tools to overcome these challenges.

Boost your fundraising confidence with the help of practivated.com

Overcome fundraising challenges by reading Mallory's book, What the Fundraising! Get your copy here: malloryerickson.com/book

Listen to Mallory's podcast for cutting-edge fundraising strategies https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallory-erickson-bressler/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Why does everyone at your fundraiser need a paddle? We've teamed up with our friend and world class fundraiser, Chris Hensley, to give you a step by step guide (and real time case study that raised $26,000) on how to add the paddle drop to your next event.

In this episode, Trevor Nelson sits down with Chris Hensley, professional auctioneer and former fundraiser, to break down exactly how paddle drops work, why they’re so effective, and how nonprofits can use them to dramatically increase event revenue.

Explore Chris Hensley's consulting and auctioneering services: https://www.bidraisebid.com/

*In this episode we cover:*

- What a paddle drop really is (and what it’s not)

- How to create anticipation and excitement before the moment happens

- Why surprise is critical to maximizing participation

- How to engage donors at every giving level

- The role trusted community leaders play in increasing donations

- How paddle drops help identify and cultivate future major donors

- Why transparency and clear communication matter during the ask

- How the right auctioneer can drive more results

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hensley-auctions/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Are fundraising events no longer the #1 way to raise money? Trevor Nelson and Marty Murad dig into that question and uncover what’s really happening in the new generosity landscape.

*In this episode, they break down:*

- Why communities still crave in-person events

- The real psychology behind why donors give (and why they stop)

- How family-business thinking can strengthen a nonprofit

- Why younger generations are struggling to give

- How to simplify the giving process to increase participation

- How small nonprofits can dramatically grow revenue with smarter events

- Why thanking donors more often directly increases donation size

Need help with your auction event? Check out https://muradauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Marty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helpingnon-profitsraisemoremoneyatevents/

Follow Murad Auctions on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/murad-auction-group-llc/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising expert Johnny Bravo Holloway, whose decades of experience in radio, event hosting, auctioneering, and nonprofit fundraising have helped countless organizations transform their donor engagement strategies.

Reserve the most profitable auction items in fundraising - Trips and Experiences! https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Want to raise more money at your next fundraising events? Email Johnny at JohnnyBravoEntertainment@gmail.com

In this episode, Johnny breaks down how entertainment, messaging, video content, and emotional connection shape the success of any fundraising event. You’ll learn why understanding your audience’s intentions matters, how pre-event planning directly affects donations, and why smaller, more engaged rooms often outperform larger ones.

Whether you're hosting galas, auctions, or donor events, this conversation will give you clear, actionable insights to help you engage supporters authentically and raise more money with confidence.

🔑 Key Topics Discussed:

- How to fundraising through entertainment and storytelling

- How audience engagement directly impacts giving

- Using video content to create certainty and connection

- Selecting speakers who move donors emotionally

- Why mission-centric messaging raises more money

- Pre-event planning strategies that drive attendance

- Understanding donor intention vs. donor behavior

- Why “less is more” when it comes to audience size

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Johnny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnyholloway/

Learn more about the services Johnny and his team provide: https://www.johnnybravoentertainment.com/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

In this episode, Trevor Nelson sits down with Jennifer Knopf, founder of the REED Charitable Foundation, to unpack how her team raised over $1,000,000 in just two days—and why a clear mission, bold storytelling, and the courage to ask made it possible.

Jennifer shares the origin story of REED, its mission to support children with dyslexia, and how she built their 6th Annual Dyslexia Experience and Gala that brought shocking results—including securing John Hoke III, Chief Design Officer at Nike, simply by daring to ask.

Support Reed Charitable Foundation https://reedcharitablefoundation.org/

In this episode of Hey Nonprofits! you’ll learn:

- The story behind REED Charitable Foundation

- How Jennifer's organization raised $1M+ during a 2-day event

- Why clarity of mission attracts and educates donors

- The realities faced by children who struggle with dyslexia

- How emotional storytelling drives giving

- The surprising power of “just ask” in fundraising

- How bold partnerships can lead to event success

If you work in fundraising, events, education, or simply love stories of mission-driven impact, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and lead with heart.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Jennifer Knopf on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-knopf-99042764/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Fundraising is changing — fast.

In this episode, Brad Ton and Trevor Nelson unpack the new rules of fundraising, social selling, and human connection. If you're a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or someone who works in donor engagement, this conversation will change how you show up.

Brad and Trevor explore what it means to move from transactional fundraising to transformational fundraising — and why authenticity, vulnerability, and emotional connection are becoming the most powerful tools in the sector.

You’ll learn:

- Why social selling matters more than ever

- How authenticity can transform donor relationships

- The emotional drivers behind great fundraising

- Why current donors are your strongest pipeline

- The power of gratitude in donor engagement

- How leadership shapes culture and connection

- The role of mindfulness and presence in fundraising

- Why personal adversity often creates better fundraisers

- How to build genuine human connection in a digital world

If you’re ready to rethink your approach to fundraising, deepen your leadership, and build more meaningful relationships, this episode is for you.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradton/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Is your nonprofit focusing on the wrong thing? The key to successful fundraising events is proper planning, long before the bidding begins. There’s a foundational shift nonprofits must make if they want to fill the room with the right people, inspire generosity, and create an event that actually raises money.

In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits! podcast, host Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising strategist Dan Lyles to unpack the core elements that make auction events work. Dan shares why “getting the right people in the room” is far more important than décor, themes, or long programs. He explains how donor psychology, relationship-building, and intentional program structure can dramatically increase giving. You’ll also learn why auctioneers shouldn’t be afraid to ask boldly, how to train board members to engage donors effectively, and how technology can streamline the event experience.

If you’re planning a fundraising auction—or want to improve the results of your current event—this conversation offers practical guidance every nonprofit leader can apply.

Work with Dan Lyles Auctions https://danlylesauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are reshaping the future of philanthropy, and changing the way donors give. Is your nonprofit missing out? This episode will teach you how to adapt to this growing trend.

In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits podcast, host Trevor Nelson sits down with Mitch Stein, as they cover the evolution of DAFs, their powerful tax benefits, and the psychology that makes them such an effective giving tool. You’ll learn how to make your organization more accessible to DAF donors, integrate DAFs into event fundraising, and cultivate deeper relationships that inspire ongoing generosity.

Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or board member, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you tap into one of the fastest-growing trends in charitable giving.

Transform how your donor's give with Chariot - https://www.givechariot.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Mitch Stein on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitch-stein/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Your fundraising events are pushing away the donors you need most. It's time to stop hosting experiences that alienate the next generation and instead build a loyal community of young supporters who are excited to give.

In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits podcast, host Trevor Nelson is joined by event fundraising expert AJ Steinberg to discuss how to solve the generational giving gap. AJ explains how to design new events specifically for a younger crowd by genuinely listening to their ideas. Learn simple ways to provide amazing hospitality and a white glove service that makes every guest feel special. AJ also shares advice on how to get your board members involved in fundraising and how to prepare your event for any potential disaster. This discussion provides a clear guide for nonprofit leaders who want to build a strong community and secure support from younger generations.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with AJ on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajsteinbergproductions/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌

0:00 - Are Your Events Driving Young Donors Away?

0:26 - What is the "Generational Cliff" in Fundraising?

1:22 - The #1 Mistake Nonprofits Make With Young Donors

1:55 - A Genius Strategy to Attract a New Generation of Donors

3:04 - How to Empower Young Donors (Without Losing Control)

3:47 - The Secret to Creating Events People Actually Want to Attend

5:09 - The Mindset Shift That Will Revolutionize Your Fundraising

5:44 - Is "Unreasonable Hospitality" the Future of Fundraising?

6:53 - A Simple Definition of Hospitality That Changes Everything

7:29 - The Terrible Donor Experience Most Nonprofits Create

8:37 - How to Provide a "White Glove" Experience for Donors

10:10 - A Powerful Story of Adapting Events for Your Donors

11:41 - How to Create an After-Party That Attracts Young Professionals

14:34 - How to Get Your Board Members to Actually Help at Events

16:09 - A Simple Trick to Get Your Board to Find New Sponsors

18:34 - A Leader's Guide to Engaging Your Board Effectively

19:09 - How to Disaster-Proof Your Fundraising Event

20:06 - The First Steps to Take After a Natural Disaster

22:44 - A Powerful Story of Fundraising After a Tragedy

25:04 - Why You Shouldn't Abandon "Old" Fundraising Methods

27:25 - The Most Important Question for Every Fundraiser

28:12 - Don't Make Fundraising Harder By Doing This

29:20 - The Real Reason Nonprofit Leaders Struggle to Fundraise