In this episode, Brad Layland is joined by Jamie Sellers in his annual Year End Appeals episode. In this episode, he evaluates the year-end appeals he received last year. We learn about the good, the bad, and the ugly of this facet of fund raising as well as some thoughts about target audience and follow up.

www.thefocusgroup.com

In this conversation, Brad and Patrick McDonald discuss the founding and mission of OpenWell, an organization dedicated to supporting mission entrepreneurs. Patrick shares his journey from founding Viva, an organization that helps children in Latin America, to creating OpenWell, which focuses on empowering others to succeed in their mission work. They explore the importance of strategic partnerships, innovative funding models, and the potential for revival in Europe through collaborative efforts. Patrick emphasizes the need for a shift in how philanthropy is approached, advocating for a model that aligns resources with specific mission imperatives.

Recommended Book:
The Cloud, The Night, The Fire and the Song: With the Mystics in the School of Prayer
by Charlie Cleverly

Link:
https://openwell.co/

What can God do with seven students, four families, and a church basement? A whole lot.

Head of School Courtney Palumbo shares how Regent School of Charlottesville grew from a one-room start to a 280-student campus—with significant moments along the way, including a miraculous 20-acre land acquisition and a $600,000 donation that started with a box of paper. 

Website: https://regents-school.org

Book Recommendations:
Boys Adrift, by Leonard Sax
Values Over Valuables: Daring to Live the Life Money Can't Buy, by Harmon Kong

In this episode, Brad Layland interviews Steve Atkinson, CEO of The Bible Project, discussing the organization's mission to help people experience the Bible as a unified story that leads to Jesus. They explore Steve's journey from business to nonprofit leadership, the philosophy of generosity, and the innovative crowdfunding model that supports The Bible Project's mission. The conversation highlights the impact of the organization and the importance of community engagement in their work. In this conversation, Brad and Steve discuss the unique approach of the Bible Project, emphasizing the importance of running at the speed of generosity, the impact of community and patronage, and the transformative stories that arise from their work. They explore the balance between numbers and personal stories, the vision for future growth, and the role of education in their mission. The discussion highlights the freedom that comes from trusting in a higher purpose and the importance of inviting others into a shared journey of faith and generosity.

https://bibleproject.com/

Where Heaven and Earth Overlap

Russ Gregg joins us to share the transformative journey of founding Hope Academy, a classical Christian school in Minneapolis that serves children living in poverty. Russ shares his personal story of faith and commitment to education, detailing the challenges faced in starting the school and the miraculous ways God provided resources and support. The discussion also covers the establishment of the Spreading Hope Network, which aims to replicate the success of Hope Academy in other cities, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the need for both founders and funders in educational initiatives.

Book: Gospel Patrons, by John Rienhart

https://spreadinghopenetwork.org/

https://www.hopeacademympls.org/

Bryan Bademan didn't set out with a grand vision for Anselm House. When he joined the Christian study center at the University of Minnesota over 15 years ago, the ministry was struggling. It took five challenging years of dedicated effort just to achieve financial stability. However, as Bryan often notes, "God really loves the students and community at this university." This love has been demonstrated through significant changes, including a renewed vision, a strategic relocation to the heart of the main campus in Minneapolis, and increased resources. Listen to our conversation to hear about this journey and how these developments have positioned Anselm House to become a leading force within the broader Christian study center movement. 

Important Book
From Christendom to Apostolic Mission: Pastoral Strategies for an Apostolic Age, by Monsignor James P. Shea 

Website
https://anselmhouse.org/

In this conversation, Brad and Scott Brown discuss the mission and impact of Globe International, a unique mission-sending agency that empowers missionaries to pursue their individual callings. Scott shares his personal journey with Globe, the challenges faced in fundraising, and the transformative role of The FOCUS Group in enhancing their development efforts. They highlight success stories from missionaries who have benefited from the "Taking Donor Seriously" model and discuss the future vision for Globe, including new training initiatives and courses. The conversation concludes with Scott sharing his love for books and his own writing endeavors.

Globe International
https://globeintl.org/

Taking Donors Seriously
https://takingdonorsseriously.com/

Books
Three Finger: The Mordecai Brown Story, by Scott Brown
Baseball in Pensacola: America's Pastime & the City of Five Flags, By Scott Brown
You Can Work Your Own Miracles, by Napoleon Hill
The Circle Maker: Praying Circles Around Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears, by Mark Batterson
Empower Your Nonprofit: Simple Ways to Co-Create with AI for Profound Impact, by Amy Neumann

In this conversation, Brad interviews Nick Stumbo and John Begeman from Pure Desire Ministries, discussing their mission to help individuals overcome sexual addiction and the importance of community in healing. They share personal stories of struggle and recovery, emphasizing the need for churches to address sexual issues openly. The discussion also covers fundraising challenges, the growth of Pure Desire, and the impact of their counseling programs. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, donor engagement, and the vision for changing church culture around sexual health.

Pure Desire: Helping People Break Free from Sexual Struggles by Ted Roberts

https://puredesire.org/

Resources: Weekly podcast, stories of healing, Unwanted by Jay Stringer, 7 Pillars of Freedom workbook.

Chapters

In this episode, Brad sits down with John Hudson, the founder of 100 Fold Studio, a nonprofit international architecture firm based in Montana that serves both the spiritual and physical needs of communities worldwide. John shares how 100 Fold uniquely blends architecture with vocational discipleship—designing for ministries while equipping the next generation of architects to use their skills for God's kingdom.

John's journey is one of faith, resilience, and obedience to a calling greater than himself. From his early influences in architecture, including his grandmother's legacy, to a life-changing moment in a remote village, John recounts how God led him to create 100 Fold Studio. He also shares the trials that shaped his path—losing a home, facing setbacks, and ultimately trusting God's plan.

As the conversation unfolds, John and Brad discuss the remarkable success of 100 Fold's recent capital campaign, surpassing its $4 million goal ten months early! John reflects on the overwhelming generosity, divine provision, and the lessons he's learned through the process of fundraising for ministry growth.

Whether you're in ministry, business, or simply seeking encouragement in following your own calling, this episode is a powerful testament to the faithfulness of God and the impact of saying "yes" to His plan.

100 Fold Website: https://100foldstudio.org/

Books important to John:

"Radical" by David Platt
"Undaunted Courage" by Meriwether Lewis
"The Pastor" by Eugene Peterson

Learning about Water Street Mission's decade-long transformation to become a place that physically demonstrates the love of Christ–especially to those experiencing homelessness–would be a great story. The bonus is that, in this podcast, you will also get to know Jack Crowley who has been serving with the organization over 30 years and now serves as its president. His reflection on their strategic planning process? "I didn't want it to be Jack's strategic plan, and I knew there was a possibility of manipulating the process for that to happen. I wanted to respect the work God is doing at Water Street Mission and make sure we discerned His strategic plan for this organization." I call that a dose of radical honesty. 

Water Street Mission website: https://wsm.org/

Join us as we explore the transformative journey of leadership with Nigel Pollock, President of InterVarsity Canada. Tasked with revitalizing a nearly century-old ministry, Nigel began his tenure facing a $6 million debt, only to encounter the added challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic soon after. Through it all, he has focused on fostering a culture of kindness, trust, and acceptance, while introducing innovative strategies to advance their mission. In this episode, Nigel shares timeless wisdom, practical insights, and inspiring encouragement for leaders navigating their own paths of renewal. Tune in and be inspired to build a healthier, purpose-driven culture in your organization.

https://ivcf.ca/about/

Book Recommendations

"Retired: What Footballers Do When the Game's Up" by Alan Gernon

"A Terrible Glory: Custer and the Little Bighorn - the Last Great Battle of the American West" by James Donovan

"Holiness Here: Searching for God in the Ordinary Events of Everyday Life" by Karen Stiller

Thomas Keown grew up in Northern Ireland during "The Troubles," a time of conflict that deeply formed him. Inspired by this experience, Thomas dedicated himself to serving others facing similar struggles and empowering them to create solutions within their own communities. In this episode, Thomas shares the powerful story behind founding Many Hopes, and his counter-intuitive learning that to fundraise well, sometimes you need to slow down.

Books Recommendations
"Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High" Several Authors
"Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty" by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson

Links

The Rising Video

Website: https://manyhopes.org/

In this conversation, Brad and Doug Gehman, President of Globe International, discuss Doug's extensive experience with Globe, a mission sending agency, and the importance of member care for missionaries. They share personal stories of collaboration, the impact of training on fundraising, and Doug's book on perseverance. Doug emphasizes the significance of community, the challenges of fundraising, and the transformative power of education and experience in ministry.

Links

www.douggehman.com
https://globeintl.org

Books

A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth, Noa Tishby
Before You Quit, by Doug Gehman

In this episode, Brad, Dan, and Jamie from The FOCUS Group bring a mix of humor and expertise to tackle a crucial topic in nonprofit fundraising: year-end appeals. Fundraising can feel daunting—Who should you target? What's the best way to execute your strategy? How do you follow up effectively? Join us as we break it all down, share actionable insights, and offer practical tips to help make your year-end fundraising campaigns more manageable—and successful.

TheFOCUSGroup.com

Do you ever feel like God has called you to a big, challenging task? So did Rim Hinckley, founder and Head of School at The Geneva School of Manhattan. She started her career as a math teacher but soon found herself in NYC feeling the tug to respond to late pastor Tim Keller's question: "What does this city really need?" Being faithful to answer that question has not been an easy road, but Rim shares, "Our timing is not the same as God's, but when he delivers us, it's more amazing than we can imagine."

Website: https://www.genevaschool.net/

Recommended Books:

"Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation" – by Collin Hansen

"The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness" by Jonathan Haidt

"Strange New World: How Thinkers and Activists Redefined Identity and Sparked the Sexual Revolution" – by Carl R. Trueman

Service, Learning & People. Romanita calls these the "red threads" that have been woven into her life and work since she was little. Her current role as CEO of M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust is simply the next step in her journey of living out these themes and following the quiet leading in her life. As a leader, she seeks to lift up and empower everyone around her by listening well and always investing in people.

https://murdocktrust.org/

Book recommendations:
A Testament of Devotion by Thomas Kelly
The Way of the Heart: Connecting with God Through Prayer, Wisdom, and Silence by Henri Nouwen

Andrew Smalley is UK-born, loves running and triathlons, and relishes the role he gets to play as head of school in St. Augustine, FL. Hear about Andrew's journey to his current leadership role and the joy he finds in furthering classical Christian education. The school is in the process of launching a capital campaign, and Andrew knows that to do it well, "You have to start with a strategic plan that tells you what you need to raise money for."

https://veritasclassicalschool.org

Books Mentioned
Mathematics for Human Flourishing, by Francis Su
The Coddling of the American Mind, by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt

Reid Saunders is an evangelist who has led his organization for 27 years. During the past 15 years of Brad and Reid's friendship, RSA has grown 10x and has seen a million people make decisions to follow Jesus worldwide! Enjoy this inspiring and fun interview. Our prayer is that you are encouraged in your journey.

Reid's Book Recommendation:

Finishing Strong: Going the Distance for Your Family
by Steve Farrar

Links:
https://reidsaunders.org/
https://reidsaunders.org/books/
Book mentioned: Stories From The Ends Of The Earth

When I first learned about Medical Ambassadors International, the scale of their ministry relative to their budget seemed so crazy that it was almost too good to be true. In this episode, we dive deep with Dr. Ravi Jayakaran, the current President, to explore this incredible Christ-centered, grassroots organization. Their holistic approach beautifully intertwines physical and spiritual care, creating lasting change in communities. We'll also discuss their recent capital campaign, which has dramatically transformed their work.

Medical Ambassadors International has 231 staff members in 76 countries and utilize a robust number of volunteers. They combine medical help with the gospel's good news, impacting 3,007 communities and 3.4 million people! 

Website: https://www.medicalambassadors.org/

Healing Lives Magazine: https://www.medicalambassadors.org/publications/

Ravi's book list:

"Best Things in the Worst Times: An Insider's View of World Vision" by Graeme Irvine

Flamin' Hot: The Incredible True Story of One Man's Rise from Janitor to Top Executive Hardcover – by Richard Montanez

Subversive Jesus: An Adventure in Justice, Mercy, and Faithfulness in a Broken World by Craig Warren Greenfield

Transforming Worldviews: An Anthropological Understanding of How People Change by Paul G. Hiebert

Playing two truths and a lie with Trinidad-born Dr. Wintley Phipps would be tricky. It's hard to fathom the number of famous people whose paths he has crossed—whether singing for Mother Theresa or for one of six different U.S. Presidents, or at Diana Ross's wedding, or a divine appointment with a young and not-yet-famous Oprah Winfrey. However, one such "chance" meeting on an Amtrak commute with Chuck Colson, Prison Fellowship founder, eventually led to his passion for youth and the founding of the U.S. Dream Academy. Dr. Phipps entreats us to consider, "Imagine how much greater America would be today if we invested in character building for the kids who need it most?"

https://www.usdreamacademy.org/

Dr. Felix Theonugraha, President of Western Theological Seminary shares how he sees fundraising as a way to minister to and care for his donor partners. As many seminaries are struggling, Western, instead is leaning into their distinctives such as focus on mental health and Hispanic ministry. Part of their current capital campaign is raising funding to further innovative initiatives including ministry to those with disabilities and a center for Christian imagination.

https://www.westernsem.edu/

Ray Keen exudes wisdom and compassion. He's a veteran CEO of The Canby Center, a wrap-around care ministry to youth and families in a small town in Oregon. Even as a growing organization–they are currently finishing up a $10 million campaign to expand their facilities and services– they seek to emphasize dignity and learning for everyone they serve. Advice to his younger self? "Get to know the Lord, yourself, and those you serve."

The Canby Center: thecanbycenter.org

Book List:
Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer
Giving it all away... and getting it back again, by David Green
The 6 Types of Working Genius, by Patrick Lencioni
Atomic Habits, by James Clear

Chuck Hagele, CEO of Project Patch, is no stranger to darkness. The ministry he leads provides therapeutic residential programs for teens struggling with severe depression, anxiety and other acute challenges. Through fundraising, they strive to say "Yes" to kids needing treatment even if finances are a barrier. Chuck discusses the difficulties of learning his role, including transitioning leadership from the founder (who also happens to be his father-in-law.)

Some helpful books he is reading are:

Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood by Dr. Lisa Demore

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt

The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook

In this episode Brad Layland interviews James Winans, CEO of the Bowery Mission, discussing his journey from intern to CEO, the mission's response to homelessness in New York City, and the challenges faced during the pandemic. They explore the importance of community, the role of faith in leadership, and effective fundraising strategies. James shares insights on balancing family and work, the need for collaboration in fundraising, and the vision for the future of the Bowery Mission.

The Bowery Mission
https://www.bowery.org/

Book Recommendation
The Island at the Center of the World: The Epic Story of Dutch Manhattan and the Forgotten Colony That Shaped America, by Russell Shorto

Brad's Marathon Link
https://my.bowery.org/fundraiser/6464857

Mandy's book is: Have More Fun: How to Be Remarkable, Stop Feeling Stuck, and Start Enjoying Life

https://www.themom.co/home

She has recently enjoyed reading:

Stillness Is the Key by Ryan Holiday

Running with Sherman: How a Rescue Donkey Inspired a Rag-tag Gang of Runners to Enter the Craziest Race in America by Christopher McDougall

In this special Juneteenth edition of the podcast, we interview Lisa Fields, a prominent apologist, speaker and founder of the Jude 3 Project. The Jude 3 Project exists to help equip the black Christian community to know what they believe and why they believe it. Lisa is also an expert on Juneteenth and led the production of a recent faith-filled documentary picked up by PBS. If you are not familiar with Lisa and her work, you absolutely should be. 

Her book: When Faith Disappoints: The Gap Between What We Believe and What We Experience

Films: Unspoken Documentary, PBS Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom

Website: https://jude3project.org/

YouTube: @Jude3Project

As God laid on his heart a desire to re-orient education to the focus of glorifying God, David Nees was drawn to classical education. He is now the Head of School at Heritage Classical Academy outside Cleveland, OH, and has led the school through a phenomenal season of growth in the last decade. More students often leads to a need for new physical spaces, and Heritage is, indeed, in the midst of a campaign to consolidate multiple campuses into one.

A book that David recommends is:
George Washington's Secret Six: The Spy Ring That Saved the American Revolution 
by Brian Kilmeade

Hear from Ty Fischer, a 27-year veteran Head of School at Veritas Academy in Lancaster, PA. He shares about the need for humility in asking for help with fundraising as well as the surprising diversity God has brought to his school via the refugee community. For a school nestled in Amish country, it has been an unexpected blessing to have students from over 10 different countries become part of this classical school community. 

Some books that Ty is reading are:
Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up, by Abigail Shrier
Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible's Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Modern Life and Culture, by Christopher Watkin

Oliver Asher, President of Advancing Native Missions, tells his story of a journey from a Virginia "Holler" to leading an organization that takes good news to the world. From him we hear about joy, optimism, commitment, and strategies he has employed to lead his growing organization successfully and effectively.

Read more about Advancing Native Missions, Oliver, and his book "Invincible Joy!"
https://advancingnativemissions.com/
https://www.oliverasher.com/

Dr. Calvin Troup, President of Geneva College opens up about his personal journey into higher ed and shares invaluable insights he's gleaned along the way that will benefit any fundraising professional. Delve into Geneva College's strategic planning process, feasibility studies and pivotal elements in their successful capital campaign. But beyond strategies, discover the profound significance of fostering real relationships and pursuing transparency throughout the fundraising process.

Mentioned in the podcast:

A Spirituality of Fundraising: The Henri Nouwen Spirituality Series

by Henri J. M. Nouwen and John S. Mogabgab

Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age

Confronts Controversial Topics Including Sexuality, Faith, Feminism, Gender Roles, and Modesty

by Rosaria Butterfield and Kevin DeYoung

The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes

by Nancy R. Pearcey

"Meditation on the Third Commandment" by C.S. Lewis (Found in the book "God in the Dock")

Here's the story of Ben Homan, President of Langham Partnership US, finishing his 14-year career with them. When it comes to fundraising, Brad says, "Follow Ben!" He has had a remarkable ministry as a leader and has seen the ministry multiply three times over this past capital campaign. He has used strategic planning, feasibility studies, capital campaigns, and team training in his fund-raising efforts. Perhaps the more important thing is how Ben sees his work with donors as a ministry. How he cares about them and cares for them. Not to mention the excellent fruit in the work of the Kingdom by Langham Partnership.

Ben mentions the book, "A Terrible Glory: Custer and the Little Bighorn - the Last Great Battle of the American West" from his reading list.

Listen to Beth Greco explain to Brad how she became the President and CEO of the Hoving Home, what has happened along the way, and how she manages to get the work done.

Brad Layland interviews Dave Owens, Executive Director of the Harbor Network. Learn about this church planting network and how Dave carries out his fundraising to help it all happen.

What do Punta Gorda, Florida, Australia, and Macedonia have in common? Brooke Filipovski! This remarkable young woman has raised support and ministered to young people in some interesting places. Enjoy her story!

In this conversation, Brad Voyles, the president of Covenant College, shares his journey to leadership, the distinctives of the college, and the importance of community and student experience. He discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with growth, particularly in light of the recent Partners Campaign aimed at enhancing student enrollment and experience. The conversation also explores the relational aspect of leadership and the significance of maintaining a Christ-centered education. Brad concludes by sharing insights on books that have influenced his perspective.

Covenant College
https://covenant.edu

Books:
Living Life Backward: How Ecclesiastes Teaches Us to Live in Light of the End, by David Gibson. Project Hail Mary, by Andy Weir

Brad Layland interviews Tom Lin, the president of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship since 2016.

Brad Layland interviews David Brickner of Jews For Jesus.

Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad Layland and Dan Kennedy discuss year-end appeals, the good the bad, and the ugly.

Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad Layland and John Ranheim discuss major gifts, why they're given and why you should be encouraged!

Welcome special guest Jon Eisenberg, Executive Vice President of Development and Chief Development Officer at Intervarsity.

Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad Layland and Jon Eisenberg discuss their first exposures to fundraising for ministry and how it has led them to the national campaigns they lead today.

A podcast a year in the making! Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad summarizes, critiques, and praises the End of Year Appeals he received last year. 

Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast, Brad and Max Layland discuss "A Portrait of a Graduate", why they matter and which nonprofits do them best.

Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast, Brad Layland and Ted Rodgers talk through a case study of improper estate planning.

Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast.

Today, Brad Layland discusses a common mistake many organizations make when contacting their donors. 

Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast.

Today, Brad Layland and special guest Dr. Scott Rodin walk through the 5 handy ways to make sure your giving partners are blessed.

In this episode of the Taking Donors Seriously podcast, Brad Layland interviews Justin Burkholder, the International Director of Team, a mission-sending organization with a rich history of over 135 years. They discuss the legacy of Team, the challenges of funding and measuring impact, and Justin's personal journey as a missionary kid. The conversation highlights success stories from the field, future aspirations for sending more missionaries, and the importance of leadership and education in mission work.

Website: https://www.team.org/

Books:
The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Trueman
The Missionary Movement in Christian History by Andrew Walls

Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast.

Today, Brad Layland and special guest Tom MacAdam talk about their approaches to fundraising. Turns out, it's not as scary as it seems!

Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast.

How focused is your fundraising? Today, Brad and Max Layland discuss the importance of intentional, focused planning in both fundraising and life.

Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast.

Today, Brad Layland and special guest Jamie Sellers talk fishing, funding, and financing. If either fish or fundraising strike your fancy we've got a great episode lined up for you!

Welcome to another episode of the Taking Donors Seriously podcast.

Today, Brad is joined by Ame Eldredge to discuss the function and benefits of a well made case.