Podcast
Nonprofit CourageLab
Hosted by Julie Ordoñez · EN
Julie Ordoñez is a major gifts coach, fundraiser, and founder of CourageLab, a 6-month major gifts training program for nonprofit founders, EDs, and fundraisers to raise 6-figures in 6 months in just 1-2 hours a week without grants or a gala. Nonprofit CourageLab shares soul-shaking insights on how to become a more courageous leader and raise more money for your nonprofit. No one changed the world without first changing themselves. If you want to raise more money to change the world, you are in the right place.
34episodes
Episodes
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The Easiest Year-End Fundraising Strategy Most Nonprofits Overlook
Oct 2100:29:35Tap to summarizeHey friend! I’m recording from my new apartment in Chicago, and I’m so excited to bring you Part 3 of my series on end-of-year giving strategies. This episode is a pep talk about the single most important thing I want you to focus on for a successful end of year: asking for more.I know it sounds simple, but asking for more is the strategy that makes the biggest difference in raising money. I’m talking about asking current donors, loyal supporters, and even monthly donors for more — without overthinking it, without worrying about what’s “too much,” and without trying to budget their philanthropy for them. Your job is to communicate the need, build relationships, and invite generosity. The rest is up to them. IN THIS EPISODE:Why asking for more is the #1 strategy for end-of-year successHow to stop worrying about what’s “too much” for your donorsWhy perfectionism and over-preparing can actually hold you backHow humility can make up for lack of know-how or misstepsWhy fundraising is risky — and why that’s okayHow to turn mistakes into stronger donor relationshipsTips for having confident, clear conversations with your supportersMy approach to determining ask amounts and staying decisiveHow to navigate awkwardness, conflict, and uncertainty with donorsThe truth is, most of us overthink asking for more, and that hesitation costs time, energy, and ultimately, donations. I want you to feel set free from the fear of asking for too much or getting it “wrong.” Humility, emotional intelligence, and willingness to risk are your allies — they allow you to make the ask, repair missteps if needed, and build stronger, healthier relationships.Whether you’re raising major gifts for the first time or trying to hit your end-of-year goals, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement to help you lean in, take the risk, and ask for more.DM me CL to learn about joining Courage Lab, my cohort for leaders who want to raise $100K+ in just 1–2 hours a week.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →3 Smart Habits for End-of-Year Fundraising Success Without Burnout
Oct 1400:33:30Tap to summarizeHey friend, I’m coming to you from Chicago (yes, I just moved here a few days ago!) and I’m not missing a beat. Rain or shine, I’m showing up to help you crush your end-of-year fundraising goals.This episode is part two of our mini-series on end-of-year giving. If you haven’t already listened to the workshop replay in the previous episode, go back and queue that up - it’s full of strategy, tactics, and my full roadmap for hitting your year-end goals.Today, I’m sharing three specific practices that keep me focused, grounded, and effective during the chaos of year-end fundraising especially when it comes to major gifts. These are simple, doable habits that make a massive difference when the pressure is on.In The Episode I’m breaking down:The First 60: Why the first 60 minutes of your day should always go to donor outreach — and how that one habit can completely shift your fundraising momentum.Ruthless Time Management: How to make decisions based on one question — “Will this help me reach my fundraising goal?” — and why saying no more often is actually the most selfless thing you can do.Assume the Best: How adopting an abundance mindset changes the way you lead, ask, and connect — and why believing the best in your donors (and yourself) directly impacts how much you raise.I’m also getting real about boundaries, board dynamics, and what healthy leadership looks like for fundraisers who are tired of being stretched too thin. End-of-year giving can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to. If you want to hit your goals without burning out, it comes down to focus, boundaries, and belief.These three habits are what I return to again and again, they’re how I protect my time, serve my donors well, and keep my energy focused on what actually moves the needle.If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in meetings, stretched between competing priorities, or second-guessing how to show up for donors - this episode is your permission slip to lead differently.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →Workshop Replay – End-of-Year Fundraising Strategy
Oct 700:51:37Tap to summarizeHey friends, Welcome to this week’s episode, a special replay of a workshop I hosted on end-of-year fundraising strategies. If you’re in the nonprofit or fundraising world, this is a must-listen! I’m diving into **practical, tactical advice** for how I approach major gift fundraising to crush ambitious year-end goals. Spoiler alert: this is all about keeping it *simple*—because simplicity is the vibe here. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: 1. Mapping Your Fundraising Roadmap We kick things off by setting goals and creating a clear strategy to get there. I break down my personal two-page strategy document and how it helps me stay focused. 2.The Magic of Working Backward Learn how I approach setting ambitious goals—like raising $500K—and break them down into manageable steps. Whether it’s identifying top donors or focusing on one-on-one asks, I’ll walk you through my thought process. 3.Ask Amounts & Projections I introduce my “Ask Amount Framework” and show you how to determine the right ask based on a donor’s passion, trust level, and capacity. Then, we dig into projections: how to estimate potential gifts with realistic confidence levels. 4. Courage in Fundraising Let’s get real—asking for big gifts takes guts! I share my journey from sweating over a $2K ask to confidently asking for millions. You’ll hear how to build your courage muscle and get more comfortable with the big asks. 5. Simple Over Busy Whether it’s skipping unnecessary events or learning to advocate for your time, I’ll show you how to cut the noise and focus on what really drives results. 6. Donor Engagement Tips From sending meaningful updates to personalizing your outreach, I share ways to keep donors engaged, invested, and excited to give—without overwhelming yourself. This is like sitting down with a fundraising coach who’s giving you the playbook to simplify and amplify your efforts. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, you’ll walk away with actionable tools to hit your goals. Take Action: I encourage you to workshop your own fundraising strategy as you listen. Think about: - Your big fundraising goal. - Who your top 20 donors are. - What ask amount feels bold but achievable. Let’s make this end-of-year campaign your best one yet! Enjoy the episode.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →Galas vs. Major Gifts: What the Data Reveals About True Fundraising ROI
Sep 3000:34:36Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever wondered whether your gala is really worth all the time, money, and energy it takes to pull off, this episode is for you. I’ve been in the trenches planning big-name events with celebrity co-chairs and keynote speakers, and I’ve also seen nonprofits raise six- and seven-figure gifts in just a few conversations. When you compare the cost, the time, and the results—it’s not even close.In this episode, I’m breaking down the true ROI of galas versus focusing on major gifts, why galas are almost always more exhausting than they are profitable, and how you can start raising unrestricted dollars in less time with a better strategy. IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT:Listener wins: real stories of people who closed $15K, $75K, and even seven-figure gifts just from listening to this podcastThe hidden costs of galas- staff time, hard expenses, and energy drainWhy gala money is often restricted (and why that ties your hands)The challenge of converting gala guests into loyal donorsHow major gifts free up your time and bring in bigger, unrestricted dollars fasterA client case study: what shifted when she stopped underestimating her board and started asking for moreThe real reason leaders cling to galas (hint: it’s a courage problem, not a strategy problem) If you say you value relationship-building, why are you still prioritizing event planning? Major gifts are hands-down the highest ROI strategy, and they don’t burn out your team. You can raise six figures in just a few hours a week with the right strategy, confidence, and language—and without spending nine months planning a gala.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →How This Solo ED Raised $273,000 in One Night with Zero Cost (and Stopped Overthinking Major Gifts)
Sep 2300:37:03Tap to summarize Hi friends! I’m so excited to share this episode with you because it’s a conversation with one of my Courage Lab grads, Cara Augspurger. Cara is the Executive Director of the Grace Care Center Foundation just north of Indianapolis, and she’s an all-star leader who has experienced incredible growth over the last six months.When Cara and I started working together, she was confident in operations and communications but hesitant around major gifts and board engagement. Fast forward just half a year, and her board has hosted an event that raised $273,000 in one night - with multi-year commitments and new major donors at the table. Even more powerful? Cara’s own confidence has skyrocketed.In this episode, Cara shares how she went from overthinking and procrastinating to boldly inviting donors and board members into the mission and the specific Courage Lab strategies that helped her get there.Cara’s journey from board chair to solo ED and why she invested in coaching instead of a bonusHow she made the case to her board to join Courage LabThe mindset shift that stopped her from overthinking major giftsThe event strategy that brought in $273k in one night (with 18 three-year commitments!)Why accountability, templates, and consistent invitations completely changed her fundraising resultsHow she’s now 25% ahead of her fundraising projections - for the first time in organizational history Cara’s story is proof that you don’t have to do fundraising alone and that courage, clarity, and accountability can change everything. Whether you’re a solo ED or just feeling stuck, her transformation shows what’s possible when you stop playing it safe and step into major gifts with confidence.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →Year-End Fundraising Pep Talk for Major Gifts Success
Sep 1600:58:18Tap to summarizeSeason seven of Nonprofit Courage Lab kicks off with a truth-telling pep talk. End-of-year fundraising doesn’t have to mean sleepless nights, burnout, or tolerating underperforming teams and boards. You’re capable of raising millions—unrestricted—and doing it in a way that feels fun and sustainable.In this episode, I’m calling out the silent habits that hold fundraisers back: saying yes when you need to say no, underestimating yourself and your donors, making excuses for your team, and tolerating mediocrity that poisons your culture. I’ll share what separates the organizations that thrive from those that fall behind—and why advocating for yourself, leading unapologetically, and setting clear expectations are non-negotiables for success.IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN:The funding shifts impacting nonprofits right now—and how to prepareWhy saying “no” is a leadership skill, not a riskThe hidden cost of making excuses for underperformers (and how to stop)How to use empathy without enabling dysfunctionA real coaching example: turning around a million-dollar deficit with better leadership conversationsWhy advocating for yourself changes everything—from your workload to your fundraising results You are capable of more than you realize. It’s time to stop underestimating yourself, stop apologizing, and stop tolerating excuses—from yourself, your team, or your board. When you step into your leadership unapologetically, you’ll raise more money, lead healthier teams, and create lasting change.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →Ask Julie: How Do I Become More Confident?
Aug 12, 202500:34:27Tap to summarizeWe’ve made it to the final episode of Season 6! Honestly, I’ve lost count of how many episodes we’ve done together, but I do know this: I’m so grateful for you. Thank you for being here, for trusting me, and for committing to your own journey of becoming a more courageous fundraiser, leader, and human.In this episode, I’m talking all about how to build confidence — and not in the fluffy, "say affirmations in the mirror" kind of way (though hey, nothing wrong with that!). I'm diving into the real, practical ways I’ve built confidence myself and how I’ve seen my clients do the same.Here’s the truth: Confidence is self-trust. And self-trust is built one promise at a time.I break down:Why we often break our word to ourselves (and how it erodes trust)How understanding your own motivation style (shoutout to Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies!) can change everythingWhy your environment matters so much — and how to get in rooms with people who are braver than youThe critical link between courage and confidence (spoiler: courage comes first)Practical steps to build momentum, keep your promises, and track your growthPlus, I get into the difference between confidence and arrogance, how people-pleasing keeps us stuck, and why living by obligation will always dull your light.I share a few client wins too — like someone who raised $560K in just 6 months as a one-person shop. Not because they suddenly became confident overnight, but because they created an environment where courage was the norm.Take this with you: Make a list of the things you’ve been putting off. Give yourself a deadline. Tell someone. Take the risk. Track the win. Repeat.If you’ve been feeling like confidence is just out of reach — listen to this. I promise, you are more capable than you think. And building self-trust is totally possible, no matter where you’re starting from. I’d love to hear from you: What’s a courageous risk you’ve taken recently? Share it in the comments or DM me on LinkedIn — let’s celebrate together.If this episode resonated, pass it on to a colleague who needs a confidence boost today.Here’s to living by design, not default.Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →The 3 Pain Points Keeping You From Raising Millions (And How to Flip the Script)
Jul 29, 202500:25:48Tap to summarizeHey friend ,in this episode I’m breaking down the three biggest pain points I see over and over again when it comes to raising the money you need to fund your mission. Whether you're a nonprofit CEO, ED, or development leader, these are the places where we often get stuck... but we don’t have to stay stuck.Here’s what we’re diving into:Strategy That Actually Fits YouIt’s not enough to copy what worked for another organization. I walk through how to develop a fundraising strategy that’s aligned with your culture, your team, your values, and your capacity -not just what looks good on paper. Spoiler: if your org deeply values sustainability, don’t expect an events-heavy model to work.Courage is the Difference MakerNo one talks about how much courage it takes to raise major gifts. To face rejection. To say no to donors who want to dictate your mission. To speak up when something’s not working. Courage is the backbone of effective fundraising, and I’m sharing real stories -including my own failures - to help you build that muscle.Emotional Intelligence is Your Fundraising SuperpowerI used to say “relationships” were the third key, but I’m refining that: it’s actually emotional intelligence (EQ). I break down the four components of EQ and why it’s the number one indicator of fundraising success. You’ll get a peek into the book I’m currently rereading (Emotional Intelligence 2.0), and how this work has changed the way I lead and raise money.Whether you're struggling with awkward board meetings, feeling stuck in fear, or wondering why your strategy just isn’t landing - this one’s for you.If you loved this episode or had a lightbulb moment, hit me up on LinkedIn and let me know. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →Ask Julie: Donors Don’t Want To Meet?
Jul 15, 202500:33:34Tap to summarizeI’ve always wanted to host a live call-in show where folks ask their biggest fundraising questions and I just dive right in with real-time advice. Since we’re not quite doing live radio, this episode is the next best thing.In this one, I’m answering three tough, common questions I’ve gotten from past clients and people on my email list. These are the situations that come up all the time - and they’re not easy. But I’m walking you through how I’d handle them, step by step.Here’s what we cover in this episode:What to do when a major donor doesn’t want to talk to youHow to stay in your role and keep doing your job even when a donor says, “Don’t waste your time”What to say (and how to say it) when your executive director has stepped way back from fundraisingHow to finally have the honest conversation you’ve been avoiding with your leadershipWhat it really means when your board says they “don’t do fundraising” and how to respondThis episode is honest, practical, and full of scripts and mindset shifts you can use right now to move through these challenges.Also, if you want to raise six figures in 16 weeks, I have three one-on-one spots open right now. This is the most affordable private coaching I’ve ever offered, and it’s a powerful way to work together if you’ve been waiting for the right time. If you’re interested, send me a message on LinkedIn.If you’re not on my email list yet, stop what you’re doing and go sign up. You’ll get instant access to my free templates, including my 24-page donor scripts cheat sheet, plus first dibs on workshops and coaching opportunities.You can sign up at julieordonez.com or nonprofitcouragelab.com.Message me on LinkedIn to inquire about 1:1 coaching: linkedin.com/in/julieordonezThanks for listening. Keep showing up, telling the truth, and leading with courage.
Transcribe →BTS of a $810,000 Gift (What It Actually Took)
Jun 10, 202500:31:12Tap to summarize In this episode, I’m bringing you a story that perfectly captures why courage is one of the most important skills you can build as a fundraiser — and how it can completely change your results. You’ll hear about my client Laura, a high-performing fundraiser who pushed herself to take a huge risk. First, she asked a donor for a $250,000 gift and heard “no.” But she didn’t let that stop her. She kept strengthening her “ask” muscle and later made a $1.5 million ask — which led to an incredible $810,000 gift that helped her team close out their fiscal year strong.And here’s the thing — this transformation wasn’t about tactics or scripts (though we worked on those too). It was about how Laura saw herself, how she built her courage, and how she led by example for her team. Whether you’re trying to hit a big revenue goal or just want to feel more confident going after major gifts, there’s so much in this story for you.Here’s what you will learn:Why taking bigger swings with loyal donors is key to reaching your next fundraising levelHow to strengthen your “ask muscle” and get comfortable with hearing “no”Why the way you see yourself as a fundraiser impacts the size of the gifts you ask forHow emotional intelligence helps you identify which donors are ready for a bigger askThe behind-the-scenes story of how one bold ask turned into an $810,000 giftHow to model courage as a leader so your entire team rises with youWhy generosity is contagious — and how your boldness can ripple through donor networks Thanks so much for tuning in today. I hope Laura’s story inspires you to take more courageous swings in your own fundraising work. It’s not always easy to push past fear or to risk hearing “no” — but when you do, the doors it can open are incredible. Remember, your donors want to give. Your mission deserves big gifts. And YOU are capable of asking for them.If this episode resonated with you, I’d love it if you’d share it with someone else who’s on this fundraising journey too. The more we encourage each other to lead with courage, the more impact we can all create. See you next time!Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2
Transcribe →