• Holy Donuts EP 35 - Simeon Lohrmann- Automating Empathy? AI's Role in Nonprofit Communications
    Oct 18 2024

    In this episode of the Holy Donuts podcast, host Matt Lombardi dives into the integration of AI in nonprofit communications with Simeon Lorman from Novo. The conversation starts with a lighthearted intro about Novo's mission, then segues into an entertaining donut review (yes, you read that right!). As Matt delves into Simeon's career journey, they discuss the balance between AI efficiency and human empathy in nonprofit operations. Simeon shares insights on Novo's experimentation with AI in podcast production, social media marketing, and content evaluation, emphasizing the need for a formalized AI usage policy. The episode also touches on practical AI use cases and resource recommendations for nonprofit professionals. If you're keen on learning how to harness AI while maintaining authentic human connections in nonprofit communications, this episode is a must-listen. Matt's engaging approach and Simeon's valuable insights make this podcast a worthwhile exploration of the evolving landscape of AI integration in the nonprofit sector. So grab a donut, settle in, and get ready to dive into this engaging and informative conversation!,In this episode of the Holy Donuts podcast, host Matt Lombardi engages in a compelling discussion about integrating AI in nonprofit communications with Simeon Lorman from Novo. The episode kicks off with an insightful exploration of Novo's mission and vision, followed by an entertaining donut review segment. As Matt delves into Simeon's career trajectory, they delve into the importance of balancing AI efficiency with maintaining human empathy in nonprofit operations. Simeon shares practical examples of Novo's AI experimentation in podcast production, social media marketing, and content evaluation, underscoring the need for a formalized AI usage policy. The episode also features valuable resource recommendations for nonprofit professionals. This podcast provides an engaging and informative exploration of AI integration in the nonprofit sector, offering relevant insights for those interested in leveraging AI while preserving genuine human connections in nonprofit communications.

    Are you ready for a surprising twist in the world of nonprofit communications? Dive into this laid-back, casual conversation about integrating AI in nonprofit operations. But hold on, because there's an unexpected revelation that will change the way you think about leveraging AI for improved efficiency and human empathy in nonprofit communications. Get ready to uncover the unexpected and stay tuned for the big reveal!

    Key Moments

    • Maximize nonprofit impact with AI-powered communications strategies.
    • Elevate donor engagement through innovative AI integration in nonprofit communications.
    • Streamline operations and enhance efficiency with AI in nonprofit digital marketing.
    • Cultivate deeper donor relationships using AI-driven communication techniques.
    • Uncover the power of AI to revolutionize missionary fundraising in nonprofits.

    Recommended Resources

    • Spirituality of Fundraising by Henry Nouwen - A book recommended for personal support fundraising and organizational perspective, focusing on the spiritual formation aspect of fundraising.
    • Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership by Ruth Haley Barton - A book that offers practical insights and leadership lessons using the story of Moses, particularly beneficial during challenging leadership seasons.
    • The Performance Factor: Unlocking the Secrets of Teamwork by Pat McMillan - A book providing insights into effective teamwork and the impact of adding new teammates to a team, offering practical guidance for team development.
    • Beyond Podcast by Novo - A podcast platform sharing stories of people saying yes to Jesus, taking risks in their faith journey, and how God shows up, featuring missionaries, everyday disciple makers, and donors.
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    34 mins
  • Holy Donuts EP 34: Unlocking the Power of Planned Giving: A Conversation with Christopher McGown
    Oct 4 2024

    Hey there, nonprofit pros! Ever feel like you're doing everything to engage planned giving donors, but still coming up short? You've probably been told to bombard them with complex plan giving information, leaving you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of results. It's like trying to bake the perfect donut and ending up with an empty jelly center. Sound familiar? Let's flip the script and find a better way to connect with planned giving donors for real impact and donor retention.

    My special guest is Christopher McGown

    Christopher McGown, the founder and principal at peak 98 60, is a seasoned expert in plan giving, boasting a background in education and a serendipitous segue into fundraising. With a knack for simplifying the intricacies of planned giving and a genuine passion for donor engagement, Christopher offers a refreshing and accessible approach to navigating the world of nonprofit fundraising. His emphasis on integrity in organizational policies and his ability to debunk the myths surrounding planned giving make him an invaluable asset for nonprofits seeking to establish meaningful connections with their planned giving donors. Christopher's wealth of experience and commitment to demystifying plan giving strategies bring a wealth of knowledge and insight to the Holy Donuts audience, providing a unique perspective on donor engagement and retention in the nonprofit sector.

    Key Moments

    Discover effective planned giving strategies to maximize donor impact and support your nonprofit's mission.
    Uncover the significant impact of donor advised funds on charities and how they can benefit your organization.
    Learn proven techniques to maximize donor retention through strategic planned gifts and foster long-term support.
    Explore how to seamlessly integrate planned giving into your nonprofit's marketing efforts for greater donor engagement and impact.
    Master the art of effectively communicating with planned giving donors to build lasting relationships and secure vital support for your nonprofit.

    Recommended Resources

    Check out wegive.com for the world's best donor experience, donor portals, checkouts, and engagement features. This is the sponsor of the Holy Donuts podcast, and they offer a comprehensive software tool for nonprofits to enhance their donor experience.
    For those interested in learning more about plan giving, I recommend the book The Spirituality of Fundraising by Henry Nguyen. It's a valuable resource for understanding the spiritual aspect of fundraising.
    Consider reading Ask Without Fear by Mark Pitman, a book that provides valuable insights for those in the major giving sector or communicating with major donors.
    Explore The Millionaire Next Door, a book that delves into the psychology of potential donors and provides valuable insights into understanding donor behavior.
    Connect with Christopher McGown on LinkedIn to learn more about plan giving and to get excited about its value. You can also visit the website peak9860.com to explore their services and resources for plan giving.

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    19 mins
  • Holy Donuts EP 33 - Dane Barnett - Disruptive Innovation: What Dying Nonprofits Can Learn from Startups
    Sep 20 2024

    Want to level up your nonprofit's donor engagement game and create impactful fundraising strategies? I've got just the solution to help you achieve that result. Let's dive into some game-changing insights to enhance your donor relationships and take your fundraising to the next level.

    My special guest is Dane Barnett

    Dane Barnett, the engagement manager at Medical Teams International, is a dynamic professional with a passion for nurturing donor relationships. With a background in nonprofit donor engagement and a keen interest in adapting marketing strategies to engage younger donors effectively, Dane's insights promise to offer invaluable perspectives for nonprofit leaders and fundraisers. His experience in overseeing donor events, relations, and diverse partnership opportunities, coupled with Medical Teams International's impactful work, sets the stage for an engaging discussion on adapting nonprofit marketing to resonate with younger donors.

    Key Moments

    • Mastering Nonprofit Donor Engagement: Unlocking the Secrets to Building Lasting Relationships.
    • The Essential Role of Engagement Managers: Maximizing Impact and Connection in Nonprofits.
    • Navigating the New Normal: Understanding the Impact of Remote Work on Nonprofit Operations.
    • Faith-Based Ministry Fundraising Trends: Staying Ahead of the Game in a Changing Landscape.
    • Engaging Younger Donors: Unveiling the Keys to Adapting Nonprofit Marketing for Success.

    Quotes From This Episode

    Our donors, our employees come from really diverse backgrounds and come from, because as long as we understand the work of Jesus and what he was trying to do, you're welcome on our team, and you're welcome in our donor base. - Dane Barnett

    Our role as fundraisers is to hopefully not have a job by the time we die. That's not going to happen. Of course not. Right. But that should be the goal of that. By the time we're done with this thing, there's no need for us anymore. - Dane Barnett

    Disruption in any industry is good, and that's even true in ours. In all fairness, one charity, water exists. Right. Coming into existence changed the way nonprofits think about how you treat monthly recurring, giving more than 10,000 hours of paid consulting to everyone. - Dane Barnett

    Recommended Resources

    • Power of Moments by Chip Heath - This book is recommended for anyone in the donor relations and events space. It focuses on creating memorable experiences without requiring a lot of money. It's a great resource for those looking to enhance donor engagement and event planning.
    • Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guadara - This book emphasizes the remarkable power of giving people more than they expect. It provides practical insights on going above and beyond in engaging donors and creating meaningful experiences without necessarily spending more money. It's a valuable resource for those looking to enhance donor engagement and hospitality strategies.
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    29 mins
  • Holy Donuts EP 32 - Kaitlynn Watkins - Unlocking New Donors Through Podcast Ads: A Nonprofit Leader Shares Her Strategy
    Sep 13 2024

    Have you heard these myths about nonprofit collaboration for greater impact? Myth 1: Collaboration means sacrificing autonomy. Myth 2: Collaboration is too time-consuming and complex. Myth 3: Collaboration leads to diluted impact. I'll reveal the truth behind these myths, but get ready for a game-changing strategy that will revolutionize your approach to collaboration and leadership development.

    My special guest is

    Kaitlynn Watkins holds the position of VP of Development at Unto, a humanitarian aid ministry of Crew, with a significant track record of over seven years in collaboration with the organization. Her professional journey encompasses roles with the American Cancer Society and a children's hospital, reflecting her substantial experience in the nonprofit sector. Kaitlynn's proficiency in sustainable donor engagement and her achievements in targeting the next generation of donors through podcast ads underscore her expertise in the realm of nonprofit collaboration for greater impact.

    In this episode of the Holy Donuts podcast, Kaitlynn Watkins, the VP of Development at Unto, a humanitarian aid ministry, shares valuable insights on engaging younger donors, testing new marketing channels, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of technology in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration for addressing global issues and highlights the significance of effective leadership in driving successful fund development. Kaitlynn's experience and perspectives offer thought-provoking ideas for nonprofit leaders seeking to enhance impact and successful fund development through effective collaboration and leadership. By listening to this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the nonprofit space, with a particular focus on the role of technology, collaboration, and leadership. The conversation provides practical advice for adapting to change, engaging younger donors, and exploring innovative strategies for greater impact in Christian nonprofits and fundraising.,In this episode of the Holy Donuts podcast, Kaitlynn Watkins, the VP of Development at Unto, a humanitarian aid ministry, shares valuable insights on engaging younger donors, testing new marketing channels, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of technology in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration for addressing global issues and highlights the significance of effective leadership in driving successful fund development. Kaitlynn's experience and perspectives offer thought-provoking ideas for nonprofit leaders seeking to enhance impact and successful fund development through effective collaboration and leadership. By listening to this episode, listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in the nonprofit space, with a particular focus on the role of technology, collaboration, and leadership.

    Key Moments

    • Unlock the Power of Nonprofit Collaboration for Greater Impact.
    • Discover the Key to Engaging Younger Donors in Nonprofits.
    • Master the Art of Effective Fundraising through Podcast Ads.

    Recommended Resources

    • Herding Tigers by Todd Henry - a leadership book focused on leading creative teams and encouraging innovation. Available for purchase on major online bookstores like Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
    • Unto - Learn more about the humanitarian aid ministry of Crew and their work in over 40 countries by visiting unto.com. Follow their impactful stories on Instagram at unto people.
    • We Give - A software tool for nonprofits to enhance donor experiences, manage events, pledges, surveys, and more. Check out wegive.com for more information and to improve your donor relationships.
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    20 mins
  • Holy Donuts EP 31 - Eddie Laing - From Zero to $2.5k: Your Step-by-Step Meta Ads Blueprint
    Sep 6 2024

    From Zero to $2.5k: Your Step-by-Step Meta Ads Blueprint

    Discover the surprising $2,500 digital marketing secret that Christian nonprofits are overlooking. Uncover the advanced meta ad tactics that build new donor audiences and drive real results. But wait, there's more! Learn the simple steps to ensure proper tracking from your Facebook campaign and unlock the full potential of your ad spend. Dive into this eye-opening conversation with a nonprofit marketing expert and revolutionize your organization's digital strategy. Ready to elevate your nonprofit's impact? Keep listening for the game-changing insights that will take your fundraising to the next level.

    Eddie Laing stumbled into the world of nonprofit donor acquisition while in college and found his passion for efficiently fundraising for organizations. With experience ranging from small nonprofits to aiding over 600 churches using the Google Ad grant, Eddie's expertise has led him to focus on performance-based marketing, direct fundraising, and conversion rate optimization. As a senior media buyer, he has helped nonprofits achieve remarkable results, with some clients hitting million-dollar months. His insights on digital fundraising and donor acquisition strategies make him a valuable resource for nonprofit organizations looking to enhance their digital marketing efforts.

    Key Moments

    • Uncover the power of meta advertising for nonprofits and its impact on your digital marketing success.
    • Unlock the secrets to running effective Facebook ad campaigns for charity that captivate and engage potential donors.
    • Explore the best practices in nonprofit digital marketing to elevate your organization's online presence and impact.
    • Learn how to create lookalike audiences for donor targeting and maximize your outreach efforts with precision.

    Quotes From This Episode

    So if you're just getting started, you're not sure where to start. Start with a budget of $2,500. Give it five to seven days to see where it's going to baseline, and then you'll have an idea whether or not where performance will be. - Eddie Laing

    If you understand why people give, use their language in their ads, that's going to go really far, no matter where you put it. - Eddie Laing

    Recommended Resources

    • Personify - A partner network tool that identifies anonymous users who didn't convert, providing audience information for email marketing and Facebook targeting. This tool allows you to build your CRM list and create lookalike audiences based on your current website traffic.
    • WeGive - A software tool that enhances the donor experience by providing an incredible donor portal, events, pledges, surveys, segmentation, and more. It offers innovative engagement tools to create a world-class experience for donors. Visit wegive.com to learn more.
    • Google Tag Manager - A platform that allows you to install the Facebook Pixel through a template, making it easy to manage various marketing tags, including Facebook, Google Analytics, LinkedIn, and more. It helps in tracking and managing different marketing tags on your website.
    • DonorBox, WeGive, Fundraise Up - Different donation software options that can be used to set up e-commerce tracking for tracking donations and the values of donations. These tools are essential for tracking revenue and feeding back to the Facebook Pixel to measure the ROI on ad spend.
    • Tagmanager.google.com - The official website to access Google Tag Manager, where you can install the Facebook Pixel and manage various marketing tags for tracking and analyzing website data.
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    24 mins
  • Holy Donuts EP 30: Bryce Hillhouse Fundraising Gold: An Expert Shares His Top Tips for Nonprofit.
    Aug 30 2024

    Are you ready for a surprising twist? Brace yourself, because you're about to discover the unexpected strategy that's revolutionizing nonprofit fundraising. Get ready to uncover the game-changing approach that's turning heads and leaving traditional methods in the dust. But that's not all – there's a powerful secret waiting to be revealed. Stay tuned to uncover the unconventional tactic that's taking the nonprofit world by storm. You won't want to miss this! My special guest is Bryce Hillhouse.

    Bryce Hillhouse, the Director of Development for Favor International, is a seasoned professional with a passion for nonprofit work and donor engagement. With a diverse background in serving underprivileged youth and spreading the gospel, Bryce brings a unique perspective to fundraising strategies. His experience in curating impactful stories and connecting with donors on a personal level has led to significant success in driving support for various ministries. Bryce's commitment to holistic development and empowering communities showcases his dedication to making a lasting impact. With a keen understanding of the evolving nonprofit landscape, Bryce's insights are invaluable for organizations seeking to enhance their fundraising efforts and strengthen donor relationships.

    Key Moments

    Master nonprofit fundraising with innovative strategies and expert tips.
    Discover how AI can revolutionize nonprofit marketing for greater impact.
    Elevate donor experiences with proven techniques for meaningful engagement.
    Unleash the power of storytelling to drive successful nonprofit campaigns.
    Learn personalized communication methods to deepen donor connections.

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    16 mins
  • Holy Donuts EP 29 - John Walsh- The Good and Bad of Digital Fundraising: Concerns and Hopes From An Expert
    Aug 16 2024

    John Walsh serves as the director of annual giving at a seminary, where he orchestrates comprehensive strategies for donor acquisition and engagement. With a background in music therapy, he transitioned to the realm of digital marketing and fundraising, honing his skills during his tenure at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. John's primary focus lies in utilizing digital platforms to optimize donor outreach and sustainable fundraising. His expertise extends to the implementation of monthly donor programs, emphasizing their substantial impact on donor lifetime value and retention. Through meticulous testing and integration of digital tools, John provides valuable insights for nonprofit professionals seeking to elevate their fundraising endeavors.

    His journey into digital fundraising began unexpectedly when his boss handed over the reins of the company's Facebook page. What started as a simple request soon ignited a passion for social media marketing and digital engagement. Embracing the dynamic nature of digital platforms, John delved into the world of data-driven feedback and honed his skills in email marketing at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. His transition from a music therapist to a digital marketer opened doors to a newfound love for nonprofit fundraising, aligning seamlessly with his Christian mission. John's story is a testament to the transformative power of unexpected opportunities and the impact of digital strategies in the nonprofit sector.,John Walsh's foray into digital fundraising unfolded in a serendipitous manner when he was entrusted with managing the company's Facebook page. What initially seemed like a simple task burgeoned into a deep-seated passion for social media marketing and digital strategies. Immersing himself in the realm of data-driven feedback, John's role at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association further fueled his ardor for nonprofit fundraising. Transitioning from a music therapist to a digital marketer, he discovered a profound resonance with Christian mission-focused nonprofits. John's narrative underscores the transformative potential of unforeseen opportunities and the pivotal role of digital engagement in the nonprofit landscape.

    Key Moments

    • Discover effective digital fundraising strategies that drive nonprofit success.
    • Unlock the power of monthly donor programs for sustainable fundraising.
    • Master the art of impactful email marketing in nonprofit campaigns.
    • Personalize donor communications to build stronger connections.
    • Harness the potential of technology to elevate nonprofit fundraising efforts.
    • Mastering Digital Fundraising Strategies: Uncover the secrets to effective digital fundraising that will revolutionize your nonprofit's donor engagement.
    • Unlocking the Power of Monthly Donor Programs: Discover the game-changing benefits of monthly donor programs and how they can create sustainable fundraising for your nonprofit.
    • Email Marketing Unleashed: Uncover the untapped potential of email marketing in nonprofit campaigns and learn how it can supercharge your fundraising efforts.
    • The Art of Hyper Personalization: Explore the art of hyper personalization in donor communications and how it can elevate your nonprofit's relationship with supporters.
    • Embracing Technology for Fundraising Success: Dive into the world of utilizing technology for nonprofit fundraising and learn how it can drive your organization's growth and impact.

    Quotes From This Episode

    Your donors want this. If you're not doing it, you have donors out there who are just waiting for this, they're waiting to sign up. - John Walsh

    I think the first thing is what you just said, which is testing. And that's, I think a lot of organizations don't test and don't test enough or they kind of test. - John Walsh

    It's the beauty of technology. It's that other side of the coin whe

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    22 mins
  • Holy Donuts EP 28 - David Schwab - Integrated Marketing: The Key to Nonprofit Fundraising Success
    Aug 2 2024

    Uncover the unexpected secrets behind skyrocketing donor engagement and improved fundraising. Dive into this intriguing conversation with David Schwab, where he unveils the game-changing digital strategies that are reshaping the nonprofit landscape. From accidental entry into the fundraising world to pioneering integrated marketing programs, Schwab's journey is a rollercoaster of surprises. But what's truly captivating is his concern about plummeting donor retention rates and the unconventional strategies he proposes to tackle this challenge. And just when you thought the conversation was over, Schwab drops a bombshell of resources that are revolutionizing the nonprofit space. Get ready to be blown away by the unanticipated insights and strategies that are reshaping the nonprofit fundraising game.

    If you're feeling frustrated with your nonprofit's digital fundraising efforts, trying old-school tactics that just aren't cutting it, and wondering why your donor retention rates keep dropping, then you are not alone!

    Key Moments

    • Master digital fundraising strategies for nonprofits to boost donor engagement and increase donations.
    • Understand the impact of technology on nonprofit fundraising and how it can revolutionize your approach to raising funds.
    • Discover effective nonprofit donor retention strategies that will keep your supporters engaged and committed to your cause.
    • Explore the power of omnichannel marketing for social impact organizations in reaching and connecting with a wider audience.
    • Learn how to leverage video content to create meaningful and lasting connections with your donors and supporters.

    Recommended Resources

    • wegive.com - A world class donor experience software tool mentioned in the podcast episode. This tool provides an incredible donor portal, events, pledges, surveys, segmentation, and other engagement tools to enhance the donor experience. It is recommended for nonprofits looking to improve their donor relationships and fundraising efforts.
    • Marketing Against the Grain podcast by HubSpot and Zapier CMOs - A podcast recommended for its discussions on AI and innovative marketing ideas. Listeners can gain valuable insights and ideas for their nonprofit marketing strategies from this podcast.
    • NextAfter - A valuable resource for digital testing and optimization strategies. Nonprofits can find useful resources and insights for improving their digital fundraising efforts on their website.
    • Connect with David Schwab on LinkedIn - David Schwab, a digital fundraising expert, shares new insights and perspectives on digital fundraising on his LinkedIn profile. Nonprofit professionals can connect with him to stay updated on the latest trends and strategies in the industry.
    • Email David Schwab at david@three.agency - Nonprofit professionals can reach out to David Schwab via email to have a conversation and gain further insights into digital fundraising and marketing strategies.
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    17 mins