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Welcome to Season 3 of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach!

Your major donor doesn't want your fundraising pitch. They don't want to sit through a presentation about your programs, your budget, or everything your organization needs. They want a conversation.

In this Season 3 premiere, we're exploring one of the most important shifts you can make as a nonprofit Executive Director: moving from pitching donors to building authentic relationships with them.

You'll learn why the best major donor conversations begin with curiosity and listening, how to ask better questions that uncover what your donors truly care about, and how to move the conversation away from organizational needs and toward meaningful possibilities for impact.

We'll also tackle an important misconception about relationship fundraising: building relationships doesn't mean avoiding the ask. It means creating enough trust, understanding, and alignment that an invitation to give becomes a natural next step.

If you've ever felt like meeting with a major donor means you have to become a salesperson, this episode will give you a different perspective.

You don't need a better pitch. You need better conversations.

That's part of becoming the Major Gift Leader your mission needs.

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Let's Talk! Click here to schedule a Major Gift Strategy Session to get clarity on what your mission needs: https://calendly.com/thefundcoach/complimentary-coaching-session

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

Welcome to the Season 2 finale of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach! Over the past season, we've talked about relationship fundraising, transformational generosity, and what it means to become the kind of leader major donors naturally want to invest in. If there's one lesson I hope you've taken away, it's this: major gifts aren't built on fundraising tactics—they're built on leadership.

As we wrap up the season, I want to focus on one of the most important leadership relationships you'll ever have as an Executive Director: your board. Too often, nonprofit leaders either expect too much from their board or not enough. The result is missed opportunities to build the kind of culture that inspires transformational generosity. In this episode, we'll explore the role your board should play in major gift fundraising, the common mistakes organizations make, and how Major Gift Leaders engage their boards as partners in building authentic donor relationships.

Thank you for being part of the Huddle Up community throughout Season 2. I truly appreciate you investing your time with me each week, and I hope these conversations have encouraged you to lead with greater confidence and purpose. We'll be taking a short break during August, but don't worry—we'll be back with Season 3 beginning September 8th, with more practical strategies, leadership insights, and conversations to help you become the Major Gift Leader your mission needs.

***NEW COHORT***

Introducing The Major Gift Leadership Cohort - exclusive 8-week coaching intensive for Executive Directors and nonprofit leaders who want to build authentic donor relationships that naturally lead to transformational gifts. Visit here to learn more: https://www.thefundcoach.com/cohort-waiting-list

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Let's Talk! Click here to schedule a Major Gift Strategy Session to get clarity on what your mission needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

Most Executive Directors didn't choose their role because they wanted to become fundraisers. They accepted the responsibility because they believed in a mission worth fighting for. But at some point, every nonprofit leader discovers the same truth: if the mission is going to grow, someone has to inspire generosity—and that someone is often them.

In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, I challenge you to make one of the most important mindset shifts of your leadership journey: stop trying to become a better fundraiser and start becoming a Major Gift Leader. We'll explore why major gifts are the natural outcome of authentic leadership, how confidence is built through relationships rather than solicitation, and what it means to become the kind of leader major donors naturally want to invest in.

If you've ever felt uncomfortable asking for money, struggled to make fundraising a priority, or questioned whether you're the right person to lead your organization's fundraising efforts, this episode is for you. Your mission doesn't just need an Executive Director—it needs a Major Gift Leader. And becoming that leader may be the most important investment you ever make in your organization's future.

                                            ***NEW COHORT***

Introducing The Major Gift Leadership Cohort - exclusive 8-week coaching intensive for Executive Directors and nonprofit leaders who want to build authentic donor relationships that naturally lead to transformational gifts. Visit here to learn more: https://www.thefundcoach.com/cohort-waiting-list

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe to The Weekly Huddle newsletter here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Let's Talk! Click here to schedule a Major Gift Strategy Session to get clarity on what your mission needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

What if I told you that your next major donor may already be supporting your organization? Too many nonprofit leaders think major gifts begin with wealthy prospects they've never met. In reality, transformational gifts often come from donors who started with a modest, transactional gift and gradually developed a deeper relationship with the mission. The challenge isn't finding new donors—it's intentionally moving the donors you already have from transactional to relational to transformational. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, I unpack what I call the Major Gift Trajectory and explain how donors naturally progress from making an initial gift to becoming passionate partners who make transformational investments. You'll learn why so many organizations get stuck treating donors like transactions, the relationship-building strategies that move donors forward, and how to create a system that consistently develops major gift opportunities. If you're ready to stop chasing one-time donations and start cultivating lifelong donor partnerships, this episode will give you a practical roadmap to help your supporters grow into your organization's most committed champions.

***NEW COHORT*** Introducing The Major Gift Leadership Cohort - exclusive 8-week coaching intensive for Executive Directors and nonprofit leaders who want to build authentic donor relationships that naturally lead to transformational gifts. Visit here to learn more: https://www.thefundcoach.com/cohort-waiting-list

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Need Private Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huddle-up-with-mark-the-fund-coach/id1799766114 or Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/03LPM7zjoDMLV0OGPJBxTO?si=c730fc5b97a04854

Have you ever looked through your donor database and wondered what happened to some of your best supporters? They gave generously, attended your events, and seemed deeply connected to your mission. Then...they went quiet.

The good news is that silence doesn't necessarily mean they've lost interest. More often than not, they've simply fallen out of regular communication with your organization. In this episode of *Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach*, I share why major donors go quiet, the common mistakes nonprofit leaders make that unintentionally create distance, and simple, practical ways to reconnect before the relationship fades away.

If you're ready to stop chasing new donors and start strengthening relationships with the supporters who already believe in your mission, this episode is for you. Sometimes your next transformational gift doesn't come from finding a new donor—it comes from reconnecting with one who's been waiting to hear from you.

***NEW RESOURCE*** The Board Member's Guide to Fundraising (Without the Ask) - Check it Out: https://www.thefundcoach.com/the-board-member-s-guide-to-fundraising-without-the-ask

  FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth  Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

  To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

  Need Private Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

  Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

  Subscribe to the podcast on Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huddle-up-with-mark-the-fund-coach/id1799766114 or Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/03LPM7zjoDMLV0OGPJBxTO?si=c730fc5b97a04854

Most nonprofit leaders spend months—sometimes years—working to secure a major gift. But what happens after the donor says "yes"? Too often, organizations celebrate, send a thank-you letter, and move on to raising the next gift. That's a missed opportunity. In this episode of *Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach*, I'm talking about one of the biggest mistakes executive directors make after receiving a major gift and why stewardship is about so much more than gratitude. You'll learn how to turn a one-time donor into a lifelong partner by building trust, demonstrating impact, and creating meaningful relationships that lead to future transformational gifts. If you want to stop thinking of fundraising as a series of transactions and start building lasting partnerships with your donors, this episode is for you. Remember, the gift isn't the finish line—it's the beginning of an even greater opportunity to deepen the relationship and advance your mission.

***NEW RESOURCE*** The Board Member's Guide to Fundraising (Without the Ask) - Check it Out: https://www.thefundcoach.com/the-board-member-s-guide-to-fundraising-without-the-ask

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Check out the Relationship Fundraising Academy: https://www.thefundcoach.com/rfa

Need 1:1 Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huddle-up-with-mark-the-fund-coach/id1799766114 or Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/03LPM7zjoDMLV0OGPJBxTO?si=c730fc5b97a04854

Are you unintentionally making your mission sound smaller than it really is? Many nonprofit leaders are passionate about their work, but when it comes to talking about their organization, they often focus on limitations instead of possibilities. They downplay the vision, minimize the impact, and hesitate to communicate the full potential of what their mission could achieve. In this episode of *Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach*, we're exploring why donors aren't inspired by small thinking—and why your ability to cast a compelling vision may be one of the most important fundraising skills you can develop. If you want to engage major donors, inspire greater generosity, and lead with confidence, it starts by helping others see what's possible. Starting a nonprofit is an exciting journey, but many founders quickly discover that passion alone isn't enough to sustain an organization. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, Mark shares some of the most common fundraising and startup mistakes nonprofit leaders make—and how to avoid them. From researching whether your community truly needs another nonprofit to understanding that incorporation is only the beginning, you'll learn practical steps to build a stronger foundation for long-term success. Whether you're launching a new nonprofit or considering starting one, this episode will help you think strategically about fundraising, sustainability, and creating lasting impact.

***NEW RESOURCE*** The Board Member's Guide to Fundraising (Without the Ask) - Check it Out: https://www.thefundcoach.com/the-board-member-s-guide-to-fundraising-without-the-ask

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Check out the Relationship Fundraising Academy: https://www.thefundcoach.com/rfa

Need 1:1 Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huddle-up-with-mark-the-fund-coach/id1799766114 or Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/03LPM7zjoDMLV0OGPJBxTO?si=c730fc5b97a04854

Starting a nonprofit is an exciting journey, but many founders quickly discover that passion alone isn't enough to sustain an organization. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, Mark shares some of the most common fundraising and startup mistakes nonprofit leaders make—and how to avoid them. From researching whether your community truly needs another nonprofit to understanding that incorporation is only the beginning, you'll learn practical steps to build a stronger foundation for long-term success. Whether you're launching a new nonprofit or considering starting one, this episode will help you think strategically about fundraising, sustainability, and creating lasting impact.

***NEW RESOURCE*** The Board Member's Guide to Fundraising (Without the Ask) - Check it Out: https://www.thefundcoach.com/the-board-member-s-guide-to-fundraising-without-the-ask

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/ To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Check out the Relationship Fundraising Academy: https://www.thefundcoach.com/rfa

Need 1:1 Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huddle-up-with-mark-the-fund-coach/id1799766114 or

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/03LPM7zjoDMLV0OGPJBxTO?si=c730fc5b97a04854

What if one of the biggest limitations on your organization's fundraising success is the belief that major gifts are only for campaigns? Too many nonprofits wait until they're launching a capital campaign or special initiative before they begin engaging major donors. The problem is that meaningful donor relationships can't be rushed when a funding need arises. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we're exploring why major gifts should be a year-round fundraising strategy, not a campaign tactic. You'll learn how organizations unintentionally limit donor engagement when they only pursue major gifts during campaigns, and why building consistent relationships with major donors can lead to stronger fundraising, greater sustainability, and transformational support for your mission. Let's Huddle Up!

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/ To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Check out the Relationship Fundraising Academy: https://www.thefundcoach.com/rfa

Need Private Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

What happens when the executive director and the board stop operating separately—and start partnering together around fundraising? In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we explore how healthy fundraising cultures are built through strong relationships, shared ownership, and intentional collaboration between nonprofit leaders and their boards. Too often, fundraising becomes the burden of one person while board members remain unsure of their role. But when boards understand how to engage relationally—without pressure to make the ask—everything changes. This conversation will help nonprofit leaders rethink board engagement and discover how stronger partnerships can lead to deeper donor trust, greater impact, and more sustainable fundraising success.

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Check out the Relationship Fundraising Academy: https://www.thefundcoach.com/rfa

Need 1:1 Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

One of the biggest reasons nonprofit leaders struggle to secure transformational gifts has nothing to do with donor wealth — it has everything to do with the confidence behind the ask. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, Mark dives into why leaders often ask too small, how fear and scarcity thinking quietly limit fundraising success, and why your ask communicates how much you truly value your mission. If you’ve ever hesitated before making a major gift ask or wondered why wealthy donors aren’t stepping up at higher levels, this episode will challenge the way you think about fundraising leadership, donor psychology, and the power of confident vision. Because major donors don’t just invest in causes — they invest in conviction.

FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: https://bit.ly/4hFkOth

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/

To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in

Check out the Relationship Fundraising Academy: https://www.thefundcoach.com/rfa

Need 1:1 Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-session-booking-page

Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple -https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huddle-up-with-mark-the-fund-coach/id1799766114 or Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/03LPM7zjoDMLV0OGPJBxTO?si=c730fc5b97a04854

In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, I break down how to run a fundraising event that does more than sell tickets—it creates real major gift opportunities. We talk about securing sponsorships to cover event costs, setting a clear net fundraising goal, and most importantly, building meaningful connections with attendees that lead to transformational follow-up conversations. If you want your next event to strengthen donor relationships and grow major gifts instead of just creating another transactional experience, this episode is for you. Let's Huddle Up!

Are you tired of feeling like your nonprofit’s survival is tied to a "Hunger Games" style lottery? In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, I dive deep into the hidden dangers of grant dependency and the burnout that comes from chasing every "restricted" dollar. We’re breaking down why Competition Fatigue is a choice and how you can reclaim your organization’s sovereignty. Learn how to shift from a scarcity mindset to a strategy of abundance, allowing you to stop twisting your mission to fit grant criteria and start building a sustainable, independent funding engine. It’s time to stop playing the game and start baking your own pie. Tune in and Huddle Up.

Are you communicating with your donors—or actually connecting with them? In a world where email, text, and social media make it easier than ever to reach people, many nonprofit leaders are unintentionally substituting messages for meaningful conversations. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we explore why real, interpersonal connection—through phone calls, in-person meetings, or video conversations—is essential for building trust with major donors. You’ll learn how to use technology the right way: not as a replacement for connection, but as a bridge to deeper, more authentic relationships that lead to lasting support.

Have you ever wondered why a donor who once gave consistently suddenly disappears? It’s a frustrating and often confusing experience for nonprofit leaders. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we unpack the real reasons donors stop giving—and it’s not always what you think. More often than not, it comes down to the relationship, not the dollars. I’ll walk you through the most common pitfalls that quietly erode donor trust and connection, and more importantly, how you can lead differently to keep your donors engaged, committed, and inspired to give. Register today for my LIVE free training: Big Mission Bigger Gifts scheduled for April 16th, 2026 at 12:00 pm ET

Why do so many nonprofit leaders hesitate when it’s time to ask for a meaningful gift—even when they believe deeply in their mission? In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we explore something most fundraising advice ignores: your personal relationship with money. The beliefs, experiences, and messages you’ve carried over time may be quietly shaping how you show up in donor conversations—often without you realizing it. If asking for larger gifts feels uncomfortable, intimidating, or even a little off, this episode will help you understand why—and how to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. Register today for my LIVE free training: Big Mission Bigger Gifts scheduled for April 16th, 2026 at 12:00 pm ET

If you’re leading a nonprofit, you likely feel the tension between a big, meaningful mission and the reality of inconsistent or limited funding. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we explore why impactful work doesn’t automatically attract major gifts, the hidden assumptions that keep nonprofit leaders stuck, and why traditional fundraising approaches often feel uncomfortable or ineffective. More importantly, you’ll learn the mindset shift from transactional fundraising to relationship-based fundraising—and how building the right donor relationships can unlock the transformational support your mission truly needs.

***FREE TRAINING ALERT***

Register today for my LIVE free training: Big Mission Bigger Gifts  scheduled for April 16th, 2026 at 12:00 pm ET

Many nonprofit leaders say the same thing when fundraising comes up: “I’m not a fundraiser.” And honestly, it makes sense. Most executive directors were hired because they believe deeply in the mission—not because they were trained to raise major gifts. But that belief can quietly hold you back from the very conversations that could transform your organization. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we explore how identity shapes fundraising behavior—and how reframing your role can unlock the confidence to lead meaningful donor relationships.

What do you say when the conversation with a major donor turns toward a gift? For many nonprofit leaders—especially those without formal fundraising training—that moment can feel intimidating and awkward. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, Mark shares practical, natural language you can use in real donor conversations. You’ll learn how to open the discussion, transition toward an ask, respond to hesitation, and close with clarity—without sounding pushy or salesy. If you’ve ever walked into a donor meeting hoping you’d find the right words, this episode will help you show up calm, confident, and ready to lead the conversation.

Is there a wealthy donor you’ve been meaning to reach out to… but haven’t? If so, you’re not alone — and you’re not lazy. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we unpack the real reason so many nonprofit leaders procrastinate when it comes to high-capacity donors. It’s rarely about strategy. More often, it’s fear — fear of rejection, fear of feeling small, fear of getting it wrong. We’ll explore why wealthy donors can feel intimidating, how avoidance quietly undermines your confidence, and what it takes to shift from hesitation to steady, relational leadership.Tune in, and let’s huddle up!

Your board says, “We need you to raise $1 million in major gifts.” Now what? If you’re an executive director of a small to midsized nonprofit with no in-house fundraising support, that kind of goal can feel overwhelming fast. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we break down exactly where to begin. You’ll learn how to shrink the big number into practical next steps, identify the right donors to focus on, and start building meaningful major gift relationships—without panic, pressure, or pretending to be someone you’re not. Tune in, and let’s huddle up!

What would it take for your nonprofit to receive a six-figure gift—and are you truly ready to ask for one? In this week’s episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we talk about the leap every nonprofit leader must make to move from smaller fundraising efforts into major, transformational giving. Securing six-figure gifts isn’t just about finding the right donor—it requires a shift in mindset, leadership, and clarity about the true scale of your mission. Join me as we explore the internal and practical changes necessary to confidently step into big-gift conversations and invite donors into deeper impact. Tune in, and let’s huddle up!

What would it take for your nonprofit to receive a six-figure gift—and are you truly ready to ask for one? In this week’s episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we talk about the leap every nonprofit leader must make to move from smaller fundraising efforts into major, transformational giving. Securing six-figure gifts isn’t just about finding the right donor—it requires a shift in mindset, leadership, and clarity about the true scale of your mission. Join me as we explore the internal and practical changes necessary to confidently step into big-gift conversations and invite donors into deeper impact. Tune in, and let’s huddle up!

Many nonprofit leaders quietly carry the same tension: “I’m not a fundraiser… so why does my job seem to depend on it?” In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we unpack why fundraising feels so uncomfortable for capable, mission-driven leaders—and why the problem isn’t a lack of skill, confidence, or commitment. You’ll hear a reframing that helps you see fundraising not as sales or pressure, but as an extension of leadership itself. If donor conversations feel heavy, awkward, or something you keep putting off, this episode will help you understand why—and point toward a more confident, relational way forward.

If your board feels hesitant—or invisible—when it comes to fundraising, the problem may not be motivation… it may be altitude. In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, I’m breaking down why boards stuck in the weeds of day-to-day operations are far less effective in fundraising—and how elevating them to 30,000 feet unlocks their most powerful role: opening doors to people with capacity. When board members focus on mission, vision, and strategy instead of operations, they gain the confidence to leverage their relationships—and that’s where major gifts begin. Tune in, and let’s huddle up!

As we come to the close of another year, I wanted to create space for something nonprofit leaders rarely give themselves time to do—pause. In this special year-end episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we talk about why it’s so important to take stock of where you’ve been before charging into what’s next. We celebrate the wins worth rejoicing over, reflect honestly on the mistakes that shaped us, and talk about the power of real rest. Most importantly, this episode is about hitting the reset button so you can step into 2026 clear-minded, re-energized, and ready to lead with confidence. Tune in, and let’s huddle up!

In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we explore what’s happening beneath the surface when nonprofit leaders freeze around major asks. Often, the fear isn’t about the donor or the size of the gift—it’s about our personal relationship with money, the memories we carry, and the beliefs we learned long before we ever became leaders. This conversation will help you understand where that fear comes from, how it shows up in your fundraising, and how to begin asking for big gifts with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Have you ever wondered if that popular fundraising mantra—“Ask for advice and you’ll get money”—is actually helping you, or quietly holding you back? In this week’s episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we dig into one of the most misunderstood lines in fundraising and unpack why it can mislead new nonprofit leaders, create false confidence, and derail authentic donor relationships. If you’ve ever questioned whether this advice is strategy or superstition, this episode is for you.

Have you ever wondered why some executive directors seem to consistently bring in major gifts while others feel like they’re always starting from scratch? In this week’s episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we’re digging into the real secret behind predictable major gift revenue: systems. Not complicated software or rigid scripts—but a simple, repeatable structure that keeps you focused, consistent, and confident even when your plate is overflowing. If you’ve ever felt guilty for not spending enough time on fundraising, or overwhelmed by all the moving pieces in donor relationships, this episode will show you why a system is your best friend—and the most important tool you can put in place to grow your mission. Tune in, and let’s huddle up!

As we head into the final stretch of the year, every nonprofit leader feels that familiar mix of urgency and opportunity. Year-end giving is when nearly 40% of annual donations come in — but here’s the secret most leaders miss: this season isn’t just about finishing strong. It’s your best chance to plant the seeds for sustainable major gift growth. In this week’s Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, I’ll unpack how to turn December generosity into year-round momentum — so you’re not just closing gifts, you’re opening lasting relationships. #majorgifts #relationshipfundraising #fundraising #nonprofitfunding #nonprofitleadership #nonprofit ***FREE RESOURCE ALERT!*** FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: bit.ly/4hFkOth Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlduncan/ To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in Need 1:1 Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-call-booking-page Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach Subscribe to the podcast on Apple -https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huddle-up-with-mark-the-fund-coach/id1799766114 or Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/03LPM7zjoDMLV0OGPJBxTO?si=c730fc5b97a04854 Bonus Resource: Windfall’s Kyle Curry discusses how to leverage segments in the Windfall application to enhance our Giving Tuesday and year-end fundraising efforts. He highlights the importance of reaching out to high net worth individuals who have previously donated on Giving Tuesday and in December, as they are likely to give again, especially for tax write-off purposes. He also emphasizes the value of re-engaging past donors, even those who contributed smaller amounts, to build relationships for larger gifts in the future. Additionally, He encourages you to utilize the matching gift information to maximize donations before the year ends. Please take action by prioritizing these segments and incorporating them into your outreach strategy. https://www.loom.com/share/6645d50c0c1248c6901f2ac4fdcbdb3c

In this week’s episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, I talk about how to get your volunteers — board members, committee members, and champions — off the sidelines and into the major gift game. Not every volunteer should be asking for money, but every volunteer can play a vital role in making it happen. We’ll break down who makes the best door openers, who’s ready to be a solicitor, and how to match people’s strengths with the right responsibilities. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s activity, momentum, and turning good intentions into real fundraising action. ***FREE RESOURCE ALERT!*** FREE GUIDE: 5 Habits of Executive Directors Who Land Big Gifts: bit.ly/4hFkOth To get this video podcast in your inbox, visit and subscribe here: https://www.thefundcoach.com/opt-in Need 1:1 Coaching? Click here to schedule a strategy session to discuss your fundraising needs: https://www.thefundcoach.com/discovery-call-booking-page Windfall - Wealth Analytics Report: https://analytics.windfall.com/partner/the-fund-coach

This week on Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we’re tackling one of the biggest blind spots in fundraising: assuming a donor’s past gifts tell the whole story. Too often, nonprofit leaders read giving history like a price tag — when in reality, those gifts were made without the benefit of a personal relationship. In this episode, I’ll show you why those numbers only scratch the surface of a donor’s potential, how trust and vision transform transactional givers into true partners, and how to use donor data as a launchpad for deeper connection.

In this episode of Huddle Up with Mark The Fund Coach, we’re tackling one of the biggest challenges nonprofit leaders face: finding time in a jam-packed schedule to focus on major gift fundraising. If you’re an executive director who feels pulled in a hundred directions — managing programs, staff, board requests, and daily crises — it can feel impossible to prioritize building relationships with the donors who can truly transform your mission. Today, I’m going to show you why making time for major gifts isn’t just a “nice to do” — it’s the work of leadership — and I’ll share practical strategies you can start using immediately to weave donor engagement into your daily routine.

Do you ever find yourself procrastinating — starting strong with a plan, then somehow losing steam? In this episode of Huddle Up, I explore why so many nonprofit leaders unintentionally sabotage their own consistency. From overthinking and perfectionism to the subtle pull of distractions, these patterns often reveal something deeper about your self-concept and money story. I share three practical ways to recognize the patterns, reconnect to meaning, and realign your identity so consistency stops being a struggle and starts becoming your natural state.

In this episode of Huddle Up, I unpack the power of legacy giving and why it’s essential to the long-term health of every nonprofit. Legacy gifts aren’t just about endowments or estate plans—they’re about ensuring your mission lives on for generations. Discover what legacy giving really is, why it matters more than ever, and how starting the conversation today can create lasting impact for your organization’s future.

In this episode of Huddle Up, I explores the psychology of wealthy donors and what truly drives their generosity. Beyond tax benefits and naming rights, high-net-worth individuals value impact, legacy, trust, and meaningful connection. Learn how to move past misconceptions, understand what they actually care about, and approach your donor relationships in a way that inspires transformational giving.#fundraising

Get The Relationship Fundraising Method Master Course for $100 off until September 30th!

In this week's episode, I want to ask you a critical question: Is your organization surviving, maintaining, or truly thriving? Too many nonprofits are stuck in the cycle of just getting by or settling for the status quo. But thriving—that’s where growth, momentum, and real impact happen. This episode will help you recognize where your organization really stands and why it matters more than ever.

Get The Relationship Fundraising Method Master Course for $100 off until September 30th!

In this episode of Huddle Up, I talk about the importance of not solely relying on transactional fundraising initiatives. Making the shift from transactional to transformational fundraising is what creates and sustains exponential philanthropic growth.

In this episode of Huddle Up, I share with you how you can use certain volunteers to increase your mission's visibility with an audience of high capacity prospects.

In this episode of Huddle Up, I share the difference between the direct and indirect ask why they are both a necessary part of your solicitation strategy.

What to do when you believe donors are "ghosting" you.

In this episode you'll learn that your current donors are your best donor and why.

In this episode I talk reveal some of the findings about the state of individual giving in the most recent Giving USA Annual Report.

In this episode I talk about the two fundraising love languages and how to determine which ones your donors speak.

S1 E15 In this episode I walk you through the first 5 things you must do so that you can start brining in those big gifts from wealthy individuals

In this episode of Huddle Up, I take a deep dive into the board contrarian - their pros and cons, and how to make them an asset.

In this episode of Huddle Up, I share with you how engaging in transactional fundraising can be a gateway to large gifts.

In this episode of Huddle Up, I talk the joy of giving, some of the neuroscience behind it, and why it should motivate you to boldly ask.