Podcast
Nonprofit Nation with Julia Campbell
Hosted by Julia Campbell · EN
Ready for some real talk about nonprofits? Julia Campbell sits down with industry experts and practitioners to get advice on the best ways to build a thriving movement and a vibrant, passionate community around a cause.
Topics include fundraising, storytelling, and marketing of course - but it also dives into mental health issues, leadership strategy, digital wellness, and much more. Julia's guests share practical wisdom, entertaining stories, and real-world tips that will help you strategize, plan, and grow your nonprofit.
You never know exactly what you’re going to learn when you tune into Nonprofit Nation, but you can be assured that it will be worth your valuable time and attention.
Nonprofit Nation is hosted by Julia Campbell, digital marketing and fundraising expert, nonprofit consultant, and author of Storytelling in the Digital Age: A Guide for Nonprofits and How to Build and Mobilize a Social Media Community for Your Nonprofit in 90 Days.
Julia helps nonprofits build movements, and in her work she teaches nonprofits how to build community, audience and raise influence on social media channels.
Be sure to click the subscribe button on Apple podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Future-Proof Your Nonprofit With Planned Giving with Tony Martignetti
Jul 2, 202500:38:52Summary readyIn a time when short-term fundraising feels relentless, planned giving offers something rare: stability.Planned giving often seems like a strategy reserved for large institutions or a distant concern for smaller nonprofits. However, Tony Martignetti, the Planned Giving evangelist, and host of Tony Martignetti Nonprofit Radio podcast, argues that it's a crucial tool for organizations of all sizes seeking long-term financial resilience.With nearly three decades of experience and having assisted clients in raising more than $150 million through planned gifts , Tony brings a wealth of knowledge to demystify planned giving. He emphasizes that initiating a planned giving program doesn't require a massive budget or a team of experts. Instead, it's about building genuine relationships, understanding donor motivations and correctly focusing your program.In this episode, Tony shares practical steps for small and mid-sized nonprofits to embark on planned giving, discusses common misconceptions, and highlights how such programs can provide financial sustainability amidst economic challenges.Topics We Cover:The relevance of planned giving in today's nonprofit landscapeDebunking myths: Making planned giving accessible for all organizationsEffective communication strategies for discussing legacy giftsIdentifying and engaging potential planned giving donorsSteps to initiate or rejuvenate a planned giving programThe role of planned giving in ensuring long-term organizational sustainability🧰 Resources & Links:https://tonymartignetti.com/about/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymartignetti/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tony-martignetti-nonprofit-radio/id410006184Enjoying the Podcast?✨ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them?Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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Fundraising Is Not a Dirty Word with Jill Vorndran
Jun 25, 202500:36:38Summary readyWhat if fundraising isn’t a “necessary evil,” but a powerful act of bridge-building?Jill Vorndran leads a 75-person team raising over $85 million annually for Covenant House International. In this episode, she shares what most conferences leave out: how to lead with both relentless joy and accountability, why excellent CEOs still struggle with fundraising, and what it really takes to sustain a high-performing development culture.We dig into what it takes to sustain fundraisers in a time of budget cuts and uncertainty, how to thrive inside federated models, and what leaders can do to stop apologizing for fundraising—and start owning its power.Topics We Cover:Reframing fundraising as a superpower, not a burdenLeading a large, international fundraising teamRetaining fundraisers through culture, clarity, and joySupporting non-fundraising CEOsHow to lead through turbulence and funding shiftsLearning through trial, error, and radical honestyAbout Jill Vorndran:Jill Vorndran leads a 75-person fundraising team at Covenant House International to raise about $85 million/year and support the fundraising work of Covenant House's sites throughout the United States, Latin America, and Canada. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Jill graduated from Rutgers College and Seton Hall School of Law but developed her superpowers of fundraising, leadership, and raising amazing kids through trial and (a lot of) error. Jill and her husband Sean blended their families in 2013 and are now raising four young adults who fill their hearts and empty their fridge.🧰 Resources & Links: https://www.covenanthouse.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-vorndran/ Enjoying the Podcast?✨ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them?Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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Science As Storytelling with Vivienne Ming
Jun 18, 202500:38:08Summary readyWhat if science wasn’t just about data—but about meaning? And what if stories were our most powerful technology for building a better future?This week on Nonprofit Nation, we’re joined by Dr. Vivienne Ming—theoretical neuroscientist, delusional inventor, and founder of The Human Trust—for a mind-expanding conversation about the stories we tell about science, progress, and ourselves.Vivienne is known for using AI, neuroscience, and epigenetics to tackle “impossible” problems—from detecting postpartum depression to transforming global economic inclusion. But what drives her work isn’t just data—it’s a deep belief in human capacity, creativity, and meaning.In this episode, we explore:Why science needs storytellers—and how nonprofits can play that roleHow to make data emotionally resonant and ethically soundWhat it means to center humanity (not just efficiency) in technologyHow nonprofits can help shape systems that actually serve peopleWhat imagination and science fiction can teach us about real-world changeIf you’ve ever struggled to communicate complex ideas, justify your mission, or bridge the gap between vision and impact—this episode is for you.Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!About Vivienne MingDr. Vivienne Ming explores maximizing human capacity as a theoretical neuroscientist, delusional inventor, and demented author. Over her career she’s founded 6 startups, been chief scientist at 2 others, and founded The Human Trust, a philanthropic data trust and “mad science incubator” that explores seemingly intractable problems—from a lone child’s disability to global economic inclusion—for free. She co-founded Dionysus Health, which combines AI and epigenetics to invent the first ever biological test for postpartum depression and change the lives of millions of families. She also develops AI tools for learning at home and in school, models of bias in hiring and promotion, and neurotechnologies to treat dementia and TBI. In her free time, Vivienne designs AI systems to treat her son’s diabetes, predict manic episodes in bipolar sufferers, and reunite orphan refugees with extended family members. For relaxation, she writes science fiction and spends time with her wife and children. Vivienne was named one of “10 Women to Watch in Tech” by Inc. Magazine and one of the BBC’s 100 Women in 2017. She is featured frequently for her research and inventions in The Financial Times, The Atlantic, Quartz Magazine and the New York Times.🔗 Resources & Mentions:Dr. Vivienne Ming’s website – Socos LabsScience is a Story – Future of StorytellingEnjoying the Podcast?✨ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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Fundraise Like A 5th Grader with Patrick Kirby
Jun 11, 202500:37:20Summary readyWhat if fundraising was as simple and fun as a 5th-grade project? In today’s episode, we sit down with Patrick Kirby, founder of Do Good Better Consulting and host of The Official Do Good Better Podcast, to talk about his newest book, Fundraise Like a 5th Grader. Patrick brings his signature energy and humor to share why embracing a childlike approach to fundraising can lead to big wins for nonprofits.We also dive into 2025 fundraising trends, the dangers of “we’ve always done it this way” thinking, and the simplest ways nonprofits can raise more money this year. Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or just starting, this conversation is packed with insights you can use today!🔹 In This Episode, We Cover:The inspiration behind Fundraise Like a 5th GraderWhy overcomplicating fundraising is holding nonprofits backThe biggest fundraising trends for 2025The most common fundraising mistakes (and how to fix them!)Why breaking old habits is critical for nonprofit successHit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!Guest Links & Resources:📖 Get Fundraise Like a 5th Grader: Do Good Better Consulting 💡 Learn more about Patrick Kirby: Do Good Better Consulting 🎙 Listen to The Official Do Good Better Podcast: [Podcast Link] 📲 Follow Patrick on LinkedIn | TwitterEnjoying the Podcast?✨ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them?Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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Writing For Busy Readers with Todd Rogers
Jun 4, 202500:33:40Summary readyEveryone is busy. Whether it’s emails, reports, or social media, most people skim rather than read in depth. So how can we write in a way that ensures our message gets through?In this episode, we’re joined by Todd Rogers, a Harvard Kennedy School professor, behavioral scientist, and author of Writing for Busy Readers. Todd shares the cognitive science behind effective communication and offers six actionable principles to help nonprofit professionals, educators, and leaders write clearly and concisely.We also explore:✅ The psychology behind why people skim instead of read✅ A simple checklist to make writing more engaging and effective✅ A free AI tool that helps writers refine their messages✅ How nonprofits can apply these strategies without oversimplifying complex ideasIf you’ve ever struggled with getting your emails read, crafting compelling donor messages, or writing reports that don’t get ignored—this episode is for you.Resources Mentioned:Todd Rogers’ Book: Writing for Busy ReadersFree AI email editing tool: Writing for Busy Readers AITodd Rogers’ research homepage: Harvard Kennedy SchoolHit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them?Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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How Boards Can Lead through Turbulent Times with Christal Cherry
May 28, 202500:33:42Summary readyIn times of uncertainty—whether due to political shifts, economic downturns, or crises—strong nonprofit boards are more essential than ever. But how can boards step up, adapt, and lead with equity, inclusion, and power-sharing at the forefront?In this episode, I sit down with Christal M. Cherry, Principal & CEO of The Board Pro, to explore how nonprofit boards can navigate challenges, build resilience, and foster leadership that drives real impact. Christal brings years of experience coaching and training boards, and she’s passionate about ensuring boards reflect the communities they serve.We also dive into: ✔️ The biggest mistakes boards make during times of crisis ✔️ How to create a board culture of trust, transparency, and inclusion ✔️ The power dynamics that often hold boards back—and how to fix them ✔️ Why diversity and lived experience matter in board leadership ✔️ How to keep fundraising strong in the face of uncertaintyIf your nonprofit’s board is struggling to lead effectively through turbulence, this episode is a must-listen!In This Episode, We Discuss:🔹 What “turbulent times” look like for nonprofits today 🔹 The role of a board during uncertainty—and how to step up 🔹 Why some boards freeze instead of taking action—and how to overcome it 🔹 How to ensure your board reflects the community it serves 🔹 Practical ways to empower board members to be bold, engaged leaders 🔹 How to fundraise effectively, even in the face of political and economic challenges 🔹 The future of nonprofit governance—where do we go from here?Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!Resources & Links🔹 Learn more about Christal’s work: www.theboardpro.com 🔹 Read Christal’s latest blog posts:Women on Nonprofit Boards: Progress, Power, and PurposeSurviving the Fundraising Chaos: Keep the Money FlowingBoarding Up the House: 5 Ways Your Board Can Brace for Trump 2.0 🔹 Check out Christal’s books: Mac and Cheez Series on AmazonConnect with Christal Cherry:🌐 Website: www.theboardpro.com 📩 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christalmcherry 📖 Read Collecting Courage, a collection of stories from Black fundraisersEnjoying the Podcast?✨ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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Building a Thriving Nonprofit Consulting Business with Mandy Pearce
May 21, 202500:41:20Summary readyIf you’ve ever thought about starting or growing a nonprofit consulting business, this episode is for you! Our guest, Mandy Pearce, is the founder of Funding for Good, where she has spent over two decades helping nonprofits build sustainable fundraising strategies. She also coaches aspiring and established consultants, helping them refine their business models and create profitable, purpose-driven consulting practices.In this episode, Mandy shares her journey into consulting, the biggest lessons she’s learned, and practical advice on how to attract clients, price your services, and create multiple income streams. She also gives us a sneak peek into the Nonprofit Consulting Conference, an event designed to help consultants grow, network, and scale their businesses.In This Episode, We Discuss:✔️ How Mandy transitioned from working in nonprofits to running a successful consulting business.✔️ The biggest challenges consultants face—and how to overcome them.✔️ The power of niching down and defining your expertise.✔️ How to attract and retain high-value nonprofit clients.✔️ Pricing strategies: Hourly vs. project-based—what works best?✔️ How to build passive income as a consultant (courses, memberships, and more!).✔️ Why Mandy launched the Nonprofit Consulting Conference and what attendees can expect.✔️ Essential steps for scaling and sustaining a profitable consulting business.About Mandy Pearce:Mandy Pearce and her team at Funding for Good have been influencers in the nonprofit space since 2009 with a growing nonprofit consultant audience and an established list of more than 5,000 nonprofit consultants.In 2009, Mandy founded her flagship company, Funding for Good, to equip organizations with all of the skills and tools needed to become successful and sustainable. She continues to enjoy evolving this company to meet the changing demands of the nonprofit world. For over two decades, Mandy and her team of experts have shared their proficiency in fundraising through executive coaching, strategic and development planning, seminars and specialized consulting programs. Mandy’s dynamic teaching style has brought thousands of people to her presentations at conventions, training workshops and online platforms. Mandy established Funding for Good, Inc. upon the core values of honesty, efficiency, direct communication and bringing sustainable dollars to local communities.Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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A Call for Transparent and Vulnerable Leadership with Sabrina Walker Hernandez
May 14, 202500:37:14Summary readyLeadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s about authenticity, empathy, and vulnerability. But in the nonprofit sector, where burnout is high and resources are stretched thin, how can leaders balance transparency while maintaining strong leadership?In this episode, I sit down with Sabrina Walker Hernandez, President & CEO of Building Better Boards, to explore how nonprofit leaders can build trust, inspire their teams, and lead with courage—even in uncertain times. With a Harvard certification in nonprofit management, eight influential e-books, and a track record of empowering over 10,000 nonprofit professionals, Sabrina is a powerhouse in nonprofit leadership development.We dive into: ✔️ The difference between authentic leadership and performative leadership ✔️ Why transparency and vulnerability are essential for strong leadership ✔️ How to balance confidence with humility in a leadership role ✔️ The power of empathetic leadership in driving team success ✔️ Practical ways to create a culture of trust and accountability in your nonprofitIf you’re looking for actionable ways to become a stronger, more authentic leader, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real-world strategies.Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!About Sabrina Walker Hernandez:Sabrina Walker Hernandez, President & CEO of Building Better Boards, exemplifies empowerment and strategic leadership. With a robust background in nonprofit management and a passion for fostering leadership skills, Sabrina has empowered countless. Her workshops and Keynotes, including "5 Keys to Unstoppable Teams," have equipped over 10,000 professionals with tools to make meaningful impacts in their organizations. Certified in Nonprofit Management by Harvard Business School and a published author of eight influential e-books and bestselling book Successonomics, Sabrina not only educates but inspires through her "Sipping Tea With Sabrina" podcast and as editor of the Here’s the Tea Nonprofit Report.Resources & Links:🔹 Read Sabrina’s blog post on authentic leadership: Unlocking Authentic Leadership 🔹 Learn more about Building Better Boards: www.buildingbetterboards.org 🔹 Check out Sabrina’s Sipping Tea With Sabrina podcast 🔹 Subscribe to Here's the Tea Nonprofit ReportConnect with Sabrina Walker Hernandez:🌐 Website: www.buildingbetterboards.org 📩 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sabrina-walker-hernandezThe Thin Book of TrustTake my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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How the Subscription Economy is Transforming Recurring Giving with Dave Raley
May 7, 202500:41:02Summary readyRecurring giving isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating sustainable, long-term impact. What if nonprofits took lessons from the booming subscription economy to revolutionize donor retention and engagement?In this episode, I sit down with Dave Raley—speaker, consultant, writer, and founder of Imago Consulting—to discuss his new book, The Rise of Sustainable Giving: How the Subscription Economy is Transforming Recurring Giving and What Nonprofits Can Do to Benefit. Dave shares why traditional fundraising models are broken, what nonprofits can learn from companies like Netflix and Spotify, and how organizations can create engaging, value-driven donor experiences that inspire long-term commitment.In This Episode, We Discuss:✔️ Why donor behavior is shifting toward subscription-style giving ✔️ The 6 key shifts nonprofits need to embrace to grow recurring giving ✔️ The #1 mistake nonprofits make with their sustainer programs ✔️ What nonprofits can learn from brands like Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon ✔️ How to move from one-time donations to sustainable, recurring revenue ✔️ The role of community and engagement in donor retention ✔️ Practical steps to create a seamless, value-driven recurring giving experienceHit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!Resources & Links:🔹 Grab Dave’s book, The Rise of Sustainable Giving: www.imago.consulting/book🔹 Subscribe to The Wave Report for weekly insights on innovation and leadership: www.imago.consulting/wavereport🔹 Listen to The Purpose & Profit Podcast: www.purposeandprofitpodcast.com/podcastConnect with Dave Raley:🌐 Website: www.imago.consulting 📩 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/daveraley 🎧 Podcast: www.purposeandprofitpodcast.comEnjoying the Podcast?✨ Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact. Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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How Curiosity Can Transform Nonprofit Communications with Leo Chan
Apr 30, 202500:36:20Summary readyWe’re often told to “be more curious,” but how do you actually develop curiosity as a skill? And how can curiosity be used as a powerful tool in nonprofit and philanthropy communicators?In this episode, I talk with Leo Chan, founder and Chief Innovation Igniter of Abound Innovation Inc., to explore how curiosity fuels creativity, improves storytelling, and leads to fresh, innovative solutions in nonprofit communications. Leo, a former Innovation Catalyst at Chick-fil-A, a LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, and a LinkedIn Learning instructor, shares hands-on techniques to cultivate curiosity and apply it to your work.We dive into:✅ The foundations of curiosity and why it matters in nonprofit communications✅ How curiosity fuels innovation and creativity—even on a limited budget✅ Practical tools and exercises to become more curious every day✅ What LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® is—and how it unlocks new ways of thinking✅ How to foster a culture of curiosity within nonprofit teamsWhether you’re a nonprofit leader, communicator, or fundraiser, this episode will help you harness curiosity to improve messaging, engage supporters, and drive greater impact.Resources and links:https://aboundinnovation.ca/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/everyonecaninnovate/🎙️ Subscribe & Leave a Review! Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more nonprofit professionals discover the power of curiosity in communications!🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars. Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact. Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
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