NPFX: The Nonprofit Fundraising Exchange

Too many nonprofits still act as if funders hold all the power. In reality, many of today's most generous foundations and donors are actively looking for bold, aspirational partners who can help them create meaningful change. In this episode, Melissa Cowley Wolf talks with Jaimie Mayer, founder of Middle Child Philanthropy and former chair of the Nathan Cummings Foundation, about what it looks like when nonprofits stop behaving like "grantees" and start showing up as strategic partners. You'll learn why the old funder/fundee dynamic no longer works, what today's funders are really looking for in nonprofit leaders, and how to tap a funder's totality of assets — from grants and impact investments to communications and connections. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] Greater Visibility Equals More Funding https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/greater-visibility-equals-more-funding [NPFX] Next Gen Donors and the Arts (with Jaimie Mayer) https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/next-gen-donors-and-the-arts [NPFX] Why Change Feels Impossible — And Why Your Funding Depends on It https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/why-change-feels-impossible-and-why-your-funding-depends-on-it-grounded-leadership [NPFX] Why Consistency Is Your Strategic Advantage https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/grounded-leadership-why-consistency-is-your-strategic-advantage Guest Jaimie Mayer is the Founder of Middle Child Philanthropy , partnering with families and philanthropic leaders to transform how values, power, and wealth move across generations. She recently completed a seven-year tenure as Chair of the Nathan Cummings Foundation. Under her leadership, the Board unanimously voted to shift 100% of the foundation's assets into mission-aligned investments, partnering with a values-aligned OCIO and deepening its commitment to racial, economic, and environmental justice. Jaimie holds an Executive MBA from NYU Stern School of Business and an MFA in Theatre Management and Producing from Columbia University's School of the Arts. She serves as Vice President of The Mayer-Rothschild Foundation and sits on the boards of the Nathan Cummings Foundation, the National Center for Family Philanthropy, Caramoor, and The Vineyard Theatre, as well as Morgan Stanley's Diversity Portfolios Advisory Council. She is a frequent speaker on multigenerational philanthropy, next generation leadership, impact investing, and values alignment in giving. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimiemayer/ https://www.middlechildphilanthropy.com/ Host Melissa Cowley Wolf is a strategic advisor, executive coach, author, and speaker working at the intersection of leadership, organizational impact, and philanthropic strategy. She is the founder of MCW Projects LLC , an advisory firm focused on next-era executive development and mission-driven strategy for leaders seeking meaningful impact. With more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy, leadership coaching, and campaign strategy — including work on campaigns up to $4 billion — Melissa has partnered with leading cultural, corporate, and academic institutions, philanthropists, and changemakers. Her coaching approach integrates wellness and somatic practices to help executives build clarity, groundedness, and strategic insight in a volatile environment. Named a Global Innovator Transforming the Art Industry, Melissa also directs the Arts Funders Forum, a platform advancing private support and new financial models for the cultural sector. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-cowley-wolf-6440a79/ https://www.mcw-projects.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

Nonprofits are facing unprecedented funding volatility, shrinking donor files, and increased pressure to prove impact, forcing them to rethink how they build trust with new and current donors. In today's episode, Kris Johns discusses how nonprofits can tap into television as a surprisingly accessible, highly trusted channel for donor acquisition and long-term relationship building — often at a cost lower than social media advertising. Tune in to learn how television amplifies every other channel in your mix, why evergreen efforts matter all year long, how small budgets can still succeed on the big screen, and how to measure results across an integrated fundraising campaign. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources AdGood's Ad Manager tool https://adgood.streamr.ai/ [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice Guest Kris Johns is the CEO and Founder of The AdGood Foundation , a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to transforming unused advertising inventory into a powerful tool for social change. By leveraging global partnerships and advanced technology, AdGood empowers nonprofits with affordable and effective Connected TV (CTV) advertising solutions. With over 15 years of experience in media technology, Kris specializes in Streaming (FAST & AVOD), Monetization, and AdTech. His career has been driven by a commitment to innovation, growth, and impact, consistently achieving revenue growth and enhanced profitability through strong client relationships and strategic leadership. Founding AdGood was a natural evolution for Kris, uniting his passion for social impact with a deep understanding of streaming and AdTech. Under his leadership, AdGood continues to innovate and lead in the digital advertising industry, delivering effective solutions that meet the evolving needs of clients and consumers alike. https://www.linkedin.com/in/krisjohns/ https://adgood.org/ Host Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

What if the biggest threat to your funding isn't the economy or your donor file, but your organization's resistance to change? Nonprofits are navigating shrinking capacity, shifting donor behavior, and a massive generational wealth transfer, yet many are still clinging to outdated structures and strategies that make it nearly impossible to adapt. In today's episode, Melissa Cowley Wolf interviews Brian Loevner to discuss why change is so hard for some nonprofits, and how to maximize impact instead of minimizing pain. Tune in to learn practical ways to rethink board and governance power, embed transformation into your nonprofit's DNA, and prioritize serving your community over preserving your organization. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Sustained Collaboration Network [models for sustained transformation] https://sustainedcollab.org/collaboration-stories/ [NPFX] Why Consistency Is Your Strategic Advantage https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/grounded-leadership-why-consistency-is-your-strategic-advantage [NPFX] Rethinking How We Do Good: What We Can Learn from This Funding Crisis https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/rethinking-how-we-do-good-what-we-can-learn-from-this-funding-crisis [NPFX] The Intersection of Organizational Wellness and Impact https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/the-intersection-of-organizational-wellness-and-impact [NPFX] The Future of Museums: A Crisis of Relevance https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/the-future-of-museums-a-crisis-of-relevance Guest Brian Loevner is an executive leader, consultant, and producer with thirty years of experience. In 2018, he founded BLVE Consults and has since worked with numerous arts non-profits both in the US and Canada to reimagine their operations and expand their impact. As a fundraiser, Brian has raised over $7 million for organizations and productions in the last 10 years. His work as a consultant has been in assisting nonprofits, such as One Aim Illinois, Calgary Arts Development, Media Burn Archive, Calpulli Mexican Dance, and many others in building strong teams of professionals, creating systems for success, and planning for the future. Brian has also produced over 150 theatrical productions. His most current producing project is the podcast, My Brother David, an iHeart Original podcast, which was recently named an Official Selection of the Tribeca Festival. https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianloevner/ https://www.blveconsults.com/ Host Melissa Cowley Wolf is a strategic advisor, executive coach, author, and speaker working at the intersection of leadership, organizational impact, and philanthropic strategy. She is the founder of MCW Projects LLC , an advisory firm focused on next-era executive development and mission-driven strategy for leaders seeking meaningful impact. With more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy, leadership coaching, and campaign strategy — including work on campaigns up to $4 billion — Melissa has partnered with leading cultural, corporate, and academic institutions, philanthropists, and changemakers. Her coaching approach integrates wellness and somatic practices to help executives build clarity, groundedness, and strategic insight in a volatile environment. Named a Global Innovator Transforming the Art Industry, Melissa also directs the Arts Funders Forum, a platform advancing private support and new financial models for the cultural sector. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-cowley-wolf-6440a79/ https://www.mcw-projects.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

For nonprofits that want to grow their impact, being invisible is not an option. In a crowded, distracted landscape where donors and funders are overwhelmed with messages, nonprofits that fail to show up clearly and consistently are being passed over for those that communicate with intention. In today's episode, Russ interviews Jenn DeBarge Goonan to discuss how a clear, strategic communications approach can keep your organization top-of-mind with the people who matter most. Tune in to find out exactly how much a lack of visibility might be costing your nonprofit in lost funding, credibility, and momentum. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] When You Don't Message Enough: How Humility Can Kill Your Fundraising https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/when-you-dont-message-enough-how-humility-can-kill-your-fundraising-narrative-strategy [NPFX] Leading through Layers: Communication Strategies to Align Your Team https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/leading-through-layers-communication-strategies-to-align-your-team "Greatest Good" Substack https://jenndebargegoonan2.substack.com/ Jenn's Visibility Checklist: 1. Online presence — Your website is easy to find and built for how people actually search. That means SEO and AEO (optimized for AI search tools like ChatGPT). 2. Ongoing media attention — Industry trade, local press, national coverage. Third-party coverage is your street cred. It signals you're legit and worth funding. 3. Thought leadership — Your CEO or executive director needs to be out there. Podcasts, conferences, speaking engagements, LinkedIn. Push the person forward, not just the org. 4. Consistent social media — You can't go dark for 3-5 months. Out of sight, out of mind, especially with donors and partners. 5. Ecosystem partnerships — What associations, coalitions, or organizations are you connected to? Who you run with signals whether you should be taken seriously at the table. Guest Jenn DeBarge Goonan , founder of JAG Communications , has launched and elevated dozens of brands and nonprofits, from introducing Lululemon to the U.S. market to leading social justice campaigns and iconic product launches for Ben & Jerry's, and driving strategy for organizations like the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (RECF), Bosch Community Fund, Dunkin' Foundation, Women Enabled Enterprises, ShopConsciously, and many others to help generate millions in revenue and move hearts to action. Jenn is also the author of Greatest Good on Substack that spotlights stories of changemakers, nonprofits, and purpose-driven businesses making an impact that offers clear ways for anyone to support, engage, and help move the positive work forward. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-debarge-goonan-4423a34/ https://www.jag-communications.com/ Host Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

What if sporadic communications are doing more damage to your fundraising than donor fatigue or a tight economy? In a sector where small, underfunded comms teams and pressure to "stay humble" are the norm, too many nonprofits are under-communicating their impact and missing out on vital support and deeper donor connections. In today's episode, Josh Gryniewicz interviews Justin Reid to discuss the value of consistent, human-centered communication. Tune in to learn how to build basic narrative infrastructure even with a small team, use AI as scaffolding instead of generating more "slop," and create content that helps your donors and beneficiaries actually see themselves in your work. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] How a $10M Mindset Can Break the "Who You Know" Funding Barrier https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/how-a-10m-mindset-can-break-the-who-you-know-funding-barrier [NPFX] Co-Creating Solutions: The Next Level of Community Listening https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/co-creating-solutions-the-next-level-of-community-listening-narrative-strategy [NPFX] How to Measure the Impact of Your Narrative Change Strategy https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/how-to-measure-the-impact-of-your-narrative-change-strategy [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice Guest Justin "Jay" Reid is the founder of Renaissance Digital , a Durham, NC-based production company and consultancy built on narrative-led, culture-centered storytelling and creative infrastructure for organizations. Jay spent a decade developing content and communications strategy at Cities United, a national organization dedicated to supporting cities in reducing homicides and shootings through comprehensive public safety plans. That work shaped his approach to storytelling as advocacy, and his belief that narrative infrastructure is the key to producing consistent, quality content at scale. Through Renaissance Digital, Jay supports organizations and events with creative production and strategic consulting, developed an AI-powered content and storytelling tool, Creative Studio , and partners with organizations to develop the creative systems they need to show up consistently. At the center of Jay's work is culture as infrastructure: the thing that shapes how people connect, trust, and make meaning. https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinireid/ https://www.renaissance.digital/ https://studio.renaissance.digital/ Host Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck , a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence . For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

Recent data suggests that more than half of nonprofit professionals are considering leaving their jobs — and those numbers climb even higher for frontline fundraisers. In today's episode, Sadé Dozan from Borealis Philanthropy joins Russ Phaneuf to discuss the "invisible labor" that might be burning you out faster than your actual workload. Tune in to learn how your lived experience can be a powerful asset instead of "baggage," ways to set internal boundaries to protect your emotional capacity when the work feels deeply personal, and why leadership needs to support a fundraiser's whole identity to finally break the cycle of employee turnover. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice (Bridge Conference Q&A) https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice [NPFX] Peer-to-Peer Fundraising: Getting Started the Smart Way https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/peer-to-peer-fundraising-getting-started-the-smart-way [NPFX] Improve Donor Retention and Engagement with P2P Fundraising https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/improve-donor-retention-and-engagement-with-p2p-fundraising Guest Sadé Dozan is a philanthropic advisor and culturist, whose work sits at the intersection of wealth, care, culture, and power. She serves as Vice President of Advancement at Borealis Philanthropy , leading organization-wide fundraising and communications strategy during a period of profound sector transition. She is also the Founder of Melanate. , a movement infrastructure initiative cultivating leadership, narrative power, and resource fluency among Black women and gender-expansive people working in wealth and philanthropy. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sade-dozan-cap%C2%AE-cfre-9a496665/ https://borealisphilanthropy.org/ https://www.melanate.org/ Host Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

When resource‑strapped nonprofits lean too heavily on AI to generate appeals and donor communications, they risk trading away long‑term donor trust for short‑term efficiency. In today's episode, Russ Phaneuf and narrative strategist Josh Gryniewicz explore best practices for using AI in fundraising while avoiding ethical pitfalls. Tune in to learn how to set practical guardrails around AI use, update storytelling practices to respect your constituents, avoid "AI sameness" that weakens your messaging, and operationalize "the human touch" so your fundraising remains both effective and trustworthy. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] How a $10M Mindset Can Break the "Who You Know" Funding Barrier https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/how-a-10m-mindset-can-break-the-who-you-know-funding-barrier [NPFX] Leveraging AI as Your Nonprofit Thought Partner https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/leveraging-ai-as-your-nonprofit-thought-partner [NPFX] AI Tools for Grant Writing, Prospecting, and More https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/ai-tools-for-grant-writing-prospecting-and-more Guest Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck , a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence . For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Host Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

Many nonprofit leaders today feel lost in the weeds. They're stuck reacting, caught between expectations from donors and demands from the board to do more with less. When everything feels urgent, leaders lose focus, putting organizational stability and donor trust at risk. In today's episode, Melissa Cowley Wolf interviews Daniela Bryan about grounded leadership — why it matters now more than ever, why leadership development is no longer optional, and how consistency can be a leader's greatest advantage. If you're an overwhelmed nonprofit leader (or team member who supports one), tune in for practical insights on building a leadership culture that strengthens your fundraising and better prepares your organization for the future. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] Rethinking How We Do Good: What We Can Learn from This Funding Crisis https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/rethinking-how-we-do-good-what-we-can-learn-from-this-funding-crisis [NPFX] The Intersection of Organizational Wellness and Impact https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/the-intersection-of-organizational-wellness-and-impact [NPFX] The Future of Museums: A Crisis of Relevance https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/the-future-of-museums-a-crisis-of-relevance Monterey County Gives https://www.montereycountygives.com/ Guest Daniela Bryan , Chief Vision Officer at Lonely At the Top , is an executive coach and leadership strategist who works with senior leaders in nonprofits, credit unions, and purpose-driven organizations. She helps executive teams strengthen trust, break down silos, and lead with clarity in complex environments. With decades of experience advising CEOs and boards, Daniela designs year-long leadership development journeys that blend 1:1 coaching, 360 assessments, team facilitation, and immersive offsites. Her work focuses as much on what leaders must stop doing as what they should start — an approach that sharpens judgment and strengthens culture. In addition to her advisory work, Daniela is exploring storytelling and visual art as powerful tools for leadership reflection and reinvention. Her coaching results in conscious, enlightened leaders who care about what difference they make in the world while positively impacting the bottom line. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbcoach/ https://lonelyatthetop.com/ Host Melissa Cowley Wolf is a strategic advisor, executive coach, author, and speaker working at the intersection of leadership, organizational impact, and philanthropic strategy. She is the founder of MCW Projects LLC , an advisory firm focused on next-era executive development and mission-driven strategy for leaders seeking meaningful impact. With more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy, leadership coaching, and campaign strategy — including work on campaigns up to $4 billion — Melissa has partnered with leading cultural, corporate, and academic institutions, philanthropists, and changemakers. Her coaching approach integrates wellness and somatic practices to help executives build clarity, groundedness, and strategic insight in a volatile environment. Named a Global Innovator Transforming the Art Industry, Melissa also directs the Arts Funders Forum, a platform advancing private support and new financial models for the cultural sector. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-cowley-wolf-6440a79/ https://www.mcw-projects.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

In an environment where many donors are overwhelmed by urgent appeals and global crises, it's easy for even the most generous supporters to disengage. However, successful organizations realize they don't need to "scream louder" to get attention; they simply need to be clearer, more human, and more intentional about their asks. In today's episode, Russ Phaneuf sits down with Jack Padovano, Board Chair of PC Project, to discuss how prioritizing relationship-first fundraising helped this small nonprofit achieve their most successful campaign ever. You'll learn how to leverage peer-to-peer outreach to turn supporters into brave advocates, why a "strategy-first" mindset simplifies fundraising, and how to enroll donors as true partners in your mission. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] Peer-to-Peer Fundraising: Getting Started the Smart Way https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/peer-to-peer-fundraising-getting-started-the-smart-way [NPFX] Improve Donor Retention and Engagement with P2P Fundraising https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/improve-donor-retention-and-engagement-with-p2p-fundraising Guest Jack Padovano , board chair for PC Project , is an advancement and marketing strategist with over four decades of experience helping nonprofit organizations and mission-driven institutions strengthen fundraising programs and deepen donor engagement. He specializes in translating complex missions into compelling, results-driven campaigns that build lasting relationships with supporters and advance organizational priorities. Earlier in his career, Jack held senior marketing leadership roles in the direct-to-consumer sector, including positions with Sara Lee and Wolferman's, where he developed expertise in multichannel marketing, membership growth, and strategic communications. Jack also serves as a trusted advisor in nonprofit governance and strategic planning, guiding organizations on messaging, mission expansion, and long-term sustainability. Known for combining data-informed strategies with persuasive storytelling, he helps advancement teams create programs that engage donors, inspire action, and generate measurable impact. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-padovano-48bb4862/ https://www.pachyonychia.org/ Host Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

Finding the right funding for new ideas is challenging, especially when traditional philanthropy often favors established connections. However, open-call grant models are leveling the playing field, encouraging organizations to propose big, bold solutions that might otherwise stay under a funder's radar. In today's episode, host Josh Gryniewicz interviews Marc Moorghen from Lever for Change about the ways open calls are reshaping access to philanthropic funding. You'll learn the value of approaching major grant applications as learning opportunities, how to use expert and peer feedback to strengthen your case for support, and ways to leverage strategic storytelling to move funders to action. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Lever for Change Bold Solutions Network https://leverforchange.org/bold-solutions-network Larsen Lam ICONIQ Impact Award https://leverforchange.org/open-calls/larsen-lam-iconiq-impact-award Resourcing Refugee Leadership Initiative https://www.refugeeslead.org "Something 'Amazing' Happened" (NEST360 story) https://leverforchange.org/article/impact-story/something-amazing-happened [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice [NPFX] How to Measure the Impact of Your Narrative Change Strategy https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/how-to-measure-the-impact-of-your-narrative-change-strategy Guest Marc Moorghen serves as Vice President, Marketing Communications at Lever for Change , a nonprofit affiliate of the MacArthur Foundation. He leads strategic communications that help promote large-scale philanthropic investments to address global challenges. Since its founding, Lever for Change has influenced over $2.5 billion in grants and provided support to more than 500 organizations. In his role, Marc works closely with staff and donor partners to develop and implement mission-driven strategies that elevate issues, expand engagement, and support a growing global network of outstanding nonprofits. He also provides counsel to funders, helping shape messaging that amplifies their investments and drive long-term impact. Before joining Lever for Change, Marc founded and led On Message Communications, a consulting firm focused on strategic marketing and communications for cutting-edge nonprofits and philanthropists. Marc holds a bachelor's degree from Southampton University in the United Kingdom and master's degrees from the University of Leuven in Belgium and the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. https://www.linkedin.com/in/moorghen/ https://leverforchange.org/ Interview Host Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck , a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence . For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

As donor demographics shift and concerns regarding data-sharing practices grow, nonprofits are facing a significant challenge in maintaining the trust of an increasingly skeptical audience. Many leaders are now asking: How do we prove our impact with true transparency to earn long-term, continued support? In today's episode, host Russ Phaneuf welcomes Kyle Gardner, SVP of Development with Charity Navigator, to dig into the hard truths behind donor skepticism and discover where the greatest opportunities for rebuilding trust currently lie. Tune in to learn practical steps for auditing donor privacy policies, the benefits of "opt-down" email features, and strategies to create durable, repeatable stewardship. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Charity Navigator Nonprofit Portal https://www.charitynavigator.org/portal M+R Benchmarks https://mrbenchmarks.com/ Guest Kyle Gardner , Senior Vice President of Development with Charity Navigator , leads his team in raising the resources needed to expand the breadth and depth of the organization's charity ratings and other giving resources. Before joining Charity Navigator in 2017, Kyle was in electoral politics, fundraising for candidates and political committees. Kyle has proudly held his CFRE accreditation since 2021. Kyle earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Kansas. In his free time, Kyle enjoys spending quality time with his wife, three kids, two dogs, two cats, and five chickens, as well as rooting for his Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City Chiefs. https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleconnergardner/ https://www.charitynavigator.org/ Host Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Connect with NPFX LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/npfx/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/npfxpodcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/npfx_podcast/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ipmadvancement

For nonprofits, stories matter. But the underlying narratives that shape how people make sense of the world matter even more. As narrative change takes on a larger role in strategic planning, leaders, boards, and funders are asking a critical question: How do we know if it's actually working? In today's episode, Josh Gryniewicz and Brett Davidson discuss ways nonprofits of all sizes can measure the impact of narrative change work and why that measurement matters. Tune in to learn practical frameworks for assessing narrative impact, including how to think collaboratively, how to spot meaningful signals of change, and how to make a stronger case for narrative strategy with funders and decision-makers. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Measuring Narrative Change: Moving From Theory to Practice by Brett Davidson https://ssir.org/articles/entry/measuring_narrative_change_moving_from_theory_to_practice [NPFX] Co-Creating Solutions: The Next Level of Community Listening https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/co-creating-solutions-the-next-level-of-community-listening-narrative-strategy [NPFX] From Micro-Stories to Meta-Narratives: How to Influence Perception and Drive Change https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/from-micro-stories-to-meta-narratives-how-to-influence-perception-and-drive-change-narrative-strategy [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice [NPFX] Flipping the Script: Using Narrative Strategy to Improve Messaging and Prevent Donor Attrition https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/flipping-the-script-using-narrative-strategy-to-improve-messaging-and-prevent-donor-attrition [NPFX] How to Find Authentic Voices That Inspire Action https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/narrative-strategy-how-to-find-authentic-voices-that-inspire-action Guests Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck , a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence . For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Brett Davidson is founder and principal at Wingseed LLC , where he supports social justice changemakers around the world to amplify their impact. Brett also serves as Lead of Narrative Field-Building with IRIS, the International Resource for Impact and Storytelling. Previously he was director of Media and Narratives at the Open Society Public Health Program, where he led an international team focused on changing long-held social narratives impacting health equity. Prior to joining Open Society in 2010, Davidson was a media consultant to civil society organizations in Southern and Eastern Africa. He previously served as program manager at the South African democracy institute Idasa, where he helped community radio stations develop participatory news and current affairs programming. Before that, he worked as a presenter and producer in radio current affairs at the South African Broadcasting Corporation, and in collaboration with the BBC. https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettdav/ https://www.wingseed.org/ https://brettdavidson.substack.com/ Hosts Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

Private funders are increasingly shifting from funding short-term service delivery to long-term systems change, pushing nonprofits to rethink their role in their community. Many are now asking, how do we stay mission-focused while building the relationships needed to attract funders who want deeper change? In today's episode, we explore the idea of power ecosystems — what they are, how they work, and why they're reshaping the nonprofit-funder relationship. Tune in to learn how to identify your power ecosystem, build collective power, and engage private funders more effectively. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Public Health and Racial Equity (PHaRE) Model for Systems Change https://gingerleeglobal.com/public-health-and-racial-equity-phare-model-for-systems-change/ [NPFX] Rethinking How We Do Good: What We Can Learn from This Funding Crisis https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/rethinking-how-we-do-good-what-we-can-learn-from-this-funding-crisis [NPFX] Federal Funding Uncertainty: How to Assess the Risks and Respond Strategically https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/federal-funding-uncertainty-how-to-assess-the-risks-and-respond-strategically [NPFX] Building Resilience in the Face of Funding Cuts https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/building-resilience-in-the-face-of-funding-cuts [NPFX] Advocacy Matters: Defending Federal Funding for Nonprofits https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/advocacy-matters-defending-federal-funding-for-nonprofits Guests Ginger Lee , DrPH, is the founder of the Ginger Lee Global Health Consulting Group , supporting communities and organizations committed to social justice and equitable systems change. Raised in low-resourced neighborhoods, she brings a deep commitment to community power building and transformational change. Dr. Lee has served as CEO of two nonprofits, a highly successful development director, a government policy maker, and president of a globally focused foundation. Her expertise centers on systems and organizational change, non-profit leadership, and on shifting traditional philanthropy to invest in systems-level solutions alongside direct service. She is the author of the research-based Public Health and Racial Equity (PHaRE) Model for Systems Change, which clarifies the mechanisms for systems transformation led by communities most impacted by inequities. https://www.linkedin.com/in/weavingchange/ https://gingerleeglobal.com/ Dr. Anthony "Tony" Iton , CEO of The Health Trust , is a physician, attorney, public health leader, and nationally recognized advocate for health equity. Over a career spanning more than 30 years, Dr. Iton has tackled systemic barriers to health and championed community-led solutions to address inequities. At The California Endowment, he served as Senior Vice President for Healthy Communities, leading the landmark $1 billion, 10-year Building Healthy Communities initiative—one of the largest philanthropic efforts of its kind in the nation. His visionary leadership focused on empowering marginalized communities, shifting policy systems, and reimagining public health practices. Dr. Iton holds an MD from Johns Hopkins University, a JD and MPH from UC Berkeley, and a BS in Neurophysiology from McGill University. He is a Lecturer of Health Policy and Management at UC Berkeley's School of Public Health and serves on the boards of national organizations focused on health equity, including the Public Health Institute and Prevention Institute. https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtonyiton/ https://healthtrust.org/ Elizabeth Silverstein has served the not-for-profit sector for more than 40 years, specializing in transformational giving, vision casting, inspiring boards, and building passionate, effective teams. Beth has been instrumental in cultivating major gifts for capital campaigns in healthcare, two presidential libraries, higher education, K-12 independent schools, and social service organizations. With an ardent passion for protecting and propelling the nonprofit sector, Beth has joined the team at VisionConnect , a consultancy specializing in strategic planning, coalition building, governance excellence, and nonprofit capacity building. A BoardSource-certified Governance Consultant, she is passionate about coaching boards toward purpose-driven leadership and crafting bold strategic plans that drive maximum mission impact. https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-reynolds-silverstein-b211b7a/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/ Hosts Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

Community listening sessions are essential for effective nonprofit work, yet too often they become a box-checking exercise rather than a chance to uncover blind spots and foster true collaboration. In today's episode, Josh Gryniewicz interviews Dana Perlman to explore practical strategies for meaningful, co-creative listening. Tune in for a fresh perspective on systems change, community listening, and narrative strategy. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Dana Pearlman's Systems Change toolkits (free download) https://danapearlman.com/toolkits [NPFX] From Micro-Stories to Meta-Narratives: How to Influence Perception and Drive Change https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/from-micro-stories-to-meta-narratives-how-to-influence-perception-and-drive-change-narrative-strategy [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice [NPFX] Flipping the Script: Using Narrative Strategy to Improve Messaging and Prevent Donor Attrition https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/flipping-the-script-using-narrative-strategy-to-improve-messaging-and-prevent-donor-attrition [NPFX] When Your Nonprofit's Case for Support Just Isn't Working https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/when-your-nonprofit-s-case-for-support-just-isn-t-working [NPFX] How to Find Authentic Voices That Inspire Action https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/narrative-strategy-how-to-find-authentic-voices-that-inspire-action Guests Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck , a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence . For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Dana Pearlman is the founder of ChangeLeaders Network . As a systems change designer, facilitator, and catalyst, she helps individuals, teams, and organizations innovate and thrive. Her work spans one-on-one mentoring, multi-stakeholder workshops, and large-scale transformation efforts. She equips groups with practical skills in dialogue, systems thinking, complexity navigation, and creative problem solving while fostering inclusive environments that honor diverse perspectives. Drawing on a versatile toolkit of frameworks and methodologies, Dana collaborates across sectors to co-create pathways toward shared goals. She also speaks on co-creation and leadership development and designs education programs and change labs, bringing a holistic and experiential approach grounded in her multidisciplinary academic background. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-pearlman-27134312/ https://danapearlman.com/ Hosts Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement , has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

According to the Giving USA 2025 report, individual giving rose from last year. But three-quarters of dollars raised came from just 3% of donors. When giving is this top-heavy, should you keep investing in your annual fund program? In today's episode, we explore why the annual fund remains essential for long-term donor relationships — with insights on donor retention, stewardship through storytelling, and direct mail strategies to re-engage lapsed donors and strengthen your donor pipeline. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Giving USA 2023: Key Insights behind the Numbers https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/giving-usa-2023-key-insights-behind-the-numbers Colton C. Strawser , PhD has built his consulting career working with leaders at community foundations, United Ways, homeless shelters, senior service agencies, youth programs, arts and culture organizations, and more. He has trained more than 1,000 organizations and generated over $25 million in government grants. In addition to being a Certified Fund Raising Professional and Certified Nonprofit Professional, he has also completed a Certificate of Nonprofit Board Consulting through BoardSource and is a Master Trainer through the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Dr. Strawser completed his PhD in Nonprofit and Philanthropic Leadership at The Nonprofit Institute at the University of San Diego. https://www.linkedin.com/in/coltonstrawser/ https://www.coltonstrawser.com/ Samantha Timlick , partner & CEO of IPM Advancement , has been with IPM since launch. She's worked with nonprofit clients on donor renewal, appeal, stewardship, and acquisition programs encompassing more than 250 million total recipients across all fundraising channels — including highly segmented direct mail microtargeting, personalized inbound and outbound telemarketing, and integrated e-campaigns. https://www.linkedin.com/in/stimlick/ https://www.ipmadvancement.com/ Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement, has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

The goal of narrative strategy is to influence a community's perception of an issue to enroll support and inspire real change. To do so, your nonprofit must first understand what makes up the "narrative ecosystem" in which all of your messaging lives. In today's episode, Josh Gryniewicz returns to explain the six "units of narrativity." Learn how to shape storytelling at every level so your nonprofit's communications and fundraising efforts connect more deeply and deliver greater impact. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Units of Narrativity graphic (from Odd Duck) https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6qh09z91yqzys14b8ilb1/Odd_Duck_Narrative_Ecosystem.pdf?rlkey=lba3tkl7oq9bs6d91pgriv76k&dl=0 "Narrative Framing as Advocacy" Resource Center [Alliance for Early Success] https://earlysuccess.org/resource-centers/narrative-framing-as-advocacy/ [NPFX] Authentic, Ethical, and Effective Messaging — From Theory to Practice https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/authentic-ethical-and-effective-messaging-from-theory-to-practice [NPFX] Flipping the Script: Using Narrative Strategy to Improve Messaging and Prevent Donor Attrition https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/flipping-the-script-using-narrative-strategy-to-improve-messaging-and-prevent-donor-attrition [NPFX] When Your Nonprofit's Case for Support Just Isn't Working https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/when-your-nonprofits-case-for-support-just-isnt-working [NPFX] How to Find Authentic Voices That Inspire Action https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/narrative-strategy-how-to-find-authentic-voices-that-inspire-action Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck , a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence . For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement, has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

Donors today — especially younger generations — are demanding greater transparency and efficacy from the nonprofits they support. To meet these needs, your nonprofit's narrative strategy must evolve beyond traditional fundraising messaging. In today's episode, host Russ Phaneuf and guests Sadé Dozan and Josh Gryniewicz follow-up their recent Bridge Conference presentation with a special Q&A designed to help you apply narrative strategy to real world challenges. Tune in as they workshop specific examples for nonprofits, big and small. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources Bridge Conference presentation slides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/auar9jfot0i6t0junjo8k/Flipping_the_Script_Track_13_Breakout_7_vF4.pdf?rlkey=w2lljvhnmtb8dzo4mgf7khtt6&dl=0 [NPFX] Flipping the Script: Using Narrative Strategy to Improve Messaging and Prevent Donor Attrition https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/flipping-the-script-using-narrative-strategy-to-improve-messaging-and-prevent-donor-attrition Sadé Dozan is the Vice President of Advancement at Borealis Philanthropy , where she leads efforts to mobilize transformative resources for grassroots movements at the heart of building a more just and inclusive democracy. She views philanthropy as a vehicle for community-led change — where investments not only meet urgent needs but also amplify narrative power and long-term infrastructure for liberation. With two decades in nonprofit leadership, Sadé has designed and scaled initiatives across housing, care, disability justice, education, health equity, and criminal justice reform. Sadé is a trusted advisor and board member to key movement and philanthropic organizations. She is also the founder of Melanate., an equity incubation project designed to shift philanthropic ecosystems and reimagine fundraising as a practice rooted in equity and care. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sade-dozan-cfre-9a496665/ https://borealisphilanthropy.org/ Josh Gryniewicz is the founder and Chief Narrative Strategist at Odd Duck , a storytelling-for-social-change creative consultancy focused on impact-driven organizations. Josh is the co-author of the award-winning national bestseller, Interrupting Violence . For over a decade, he has worked in nonprofit communication. In 2018, he founded Odd Duck to combine his passions for storytelling and social change. The agency's Navigating Misinformation for Community Health framework has been shared with over a thousand community health organizations. Odd Duck has worked with nearly a hundred change-making organizations and advised hundreds more, including the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, the Harvard School of Public Health, and the White House. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ https://www.interruptingviolence.com/ Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement, has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

What does it mean to be a nonprofit today, and how did we reach a point where so many organizations feel underfunded, under attack, and uncertain about their future? The challenges the nonprofit sector is facing didn't come out of nowhere; they're rooted in deeper systemic issues, and they raise fundamental questions about the role of nonprofits in society. In today's episode, we discuss how we got here, what's changing, and where the sector can and should go next. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] Federal Funding Uncertainty: How to Assess the Risks and Respond Strategically https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/federal-funding-uncertainty-how-to-assess-the-risks-and-respond-strategically [NPFX] Building Resilience in the Face of Funding Cuts https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/building-resilience-in-the-face-of-funding-cuts [NPFX] Advocacy Matters: Defending Federal Funding for Nonprofits https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/advocacy-matters-defending-federal-funding-for-nonprofits Melissa Cowley Wolf has over 20 years of experience in philanthropy, strategic planning, and programming for art museums and higher education institutions across the United States. A philanthropy consultant for nonprofit organizations, an advisor to next generation philanthropists, and arts advocate working across industries, she was named to the Artnet 2020 Innovators List as one of 51 global innovators transforming the art industry. Melissa founded advising firm MCW Projects LLC in 2017 to expand the next generation of cultural philanthropists, advocates, and audiences. She is also the founding director of the Arts Funders Forum (AFF) an advocacy, media, convening, and research platform designed to develop new models of impact-driven financial support for the cultural sector. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-cowley-wolf-6440a79/ https://www.mcw-projects.com/ https://www.artsfundersforum.com/ Patton Hindle is the Executive Director of Artadia , a nonprofit grantmaker that centers artists in their vital role in society through providing funding and professional development in 7 US cities. Most recently, Patton was the Head of Forward Funds, Kickstarter's first social impact. She also served as the Head of Arts at Kickstarter for 5 years, working closely with artists, collectives, arts organizations, and cultural institutions around the world to help them realize creative and ambitious ideas. Patton is a co-author of How to Start and Run a Commercial Art Gallery and was a 2019 Catherine Hannah Behrend Fellow at 92Y Women inPower in New York. Patton served as an advisor to Mellon Foundation and is currently on the Board of Directors of The Laundromat Project, serves as the secretary of the Board of Directors of Socrates Sculpture Park, and she is a mentor for New Inc. https://www.linkedin.com/in/patton-hindle/ https://www.pattonhindle.com/ https://artadia.org/ George Suttles is a recognized expert on the intersection of philanthropy, racial equity, and nonprofit finance. He's passionate about helping the sector confront its toughest challenges. Prior to his current role, George was a Program Officer at the John A. Hartford Foundation, an independent, national private foundation focused on improving care for older adults. Before joining the foundation, he was a Vice President, Senior Philanthropic Relationship Manager at U.S. Trust/Bank of America. In this role he worked with private and institutional clients on issues related to best practices in strategic grantmaking. He is a member of numerous nonprofit boards including the New York Foundation, where he serves as chair. George received a B.A. from Wesleyan University, an M.A. in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy (IUPUI), and an M.P.A. from Baruch CUNY School of Public Affairs. https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgesuttles/ Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement, has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

Good donor stewardship is rooted in human connection, where every donor is acknowledged regardless of the size of their contribution. In this episode, Sami Zoss sits down with Mikey Latner, founder of Project:Camp, to discuss how even the smallest nonprofit can create meaningful relationships with their supporters. Learn how Mikey makes his donors feel seen and appreciated, and how his passionate, human-centered stewardship transforms supporters into mission advocates. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] Donor Stewardship: Helping Donors Find Meaning through Philanthropy https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/donor-stewardship-helping-donors-find-meaning-through-philanthropy [NPFX] Meaningful Donor Relationships: The Key to Financial Stability https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/meaningful-donor-relationships-the-key-to-financial-stability [NPFX] Measuring More than Money: Why Donor Relationships Matter https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/measuring-more-than-money-why-donor-relationships-matter Sami Zoss is the founder of Zoss Collaborations , a business solutions consulting firm specializing in nonprofit growth and operational efficiency. With an MBA in Finance and Marketing, Sami brings a wealth of expertise in donor engagement, technology integration, and strategic planning to her clients. Before founding Zoss Collaborations, Sami served as the COO and later as Acting CEO of the Dakota State University Foundation, where she led record-breaking fundraising campaigns and implemented innovative donor engagement strategies that significantly expanded DSU's donor base. In addition to her work with educational institutions, she has been a dedicated volunteer with organizations like Camp Gilbert Inc., supporting children with Type 1 diabetes. https://www.linkedin.com/in/samizoss/ https://samizoss.com/ Mikey Latner is the executive director of Project:Camp . A former camp director with two decades of camp experience under his belt, Mikey founded Project:Camp with the idea that camp and childcare professionals have critical skills to offer in times of emergency. In developing their pop-up camp model, Mikey sought to use the structure of camp as a vehicle to bring joy, safety, and peace of mind to children and parents impacted by natural disasters. He hopes this work leads to a seismic shift in the disaster response ecosystem, creating a more holistic, trauma-informed and community-driven model that prioritizes the needs of families during emergencies. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikey-latner-19b268171/ https://projectcamp.co/ Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement, has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/

Many nonprofits invest valuable time and money into messaging that never quite connects. In today's episode, Josh Gryniewicz interviews Kurt Shaw about innovative strategies for finding and amplifying the voices that inspire action and change. You'll learn practical techniques for building trust, co-creating stories with community members, and using both fictional and non-fictional narratives to reveal deeper truths that challenge the status quo and create more genuine, transformative communication. Want to suggest a topic, guest, or nonprofit organization for an upcoming episode? Send an email with the subject "NPFX suggestion" to contact@ipmadvancement.com . Additional Resources [NPFX] Flipping the Script: Using Narrative Strategy to Improve Messaging and Prevent Donor Attrition https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/flipping-the-script-using-narrative-strategy-to-improve-messaging-and-prevent-donor-attrition [NPFX] When Your Nonprofit's Case for Support Just Isn't Working https://www.ipmadvancement.com/npfx/when-your-nonprofits-case-for-support-just-isnt-working Josh Gryniewicz , founder of Odd Duck , a storytelling for social change consultancy, has spent his career in nonprofit. He served as the communication director for Cure Violence, an internationally renowned violence prevention program featured in the award-winning film The Interrupters . Josh helmed the rebrand of Integrate Health, a global health initiative in West Africa, helping increase their budget by nearly $1 million. Most recently, Josh led communication efforts for Data Across Sectors for Health (DASH), a program focused on national multi-sector data sharing to address social determinants of health. He is the co-author of the national bestseller, Interrupting Violence , a moving story of redemption and social change. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgryniewicz/ https://oddduck.io/ Kurt Shaw studied philosophy at Williams and classics at Harvard, but his most formative education came from two years in Central American refugee camps and Colombian slums, where he found the thinking of poor and marginalized people more compelling than that of many philosophers. Kurt built the world's largest network of grassroots organizations serving street children, helping reduce the number of kids living on Latin American streets. With co-director Rita da Silva at Usina da Imaginação , he pioneered collaborative filmmaking with youth — directing the first feature made entirely by ex-child soldiers, producing an indigenous telenovela in Bolivia, and creating the first fictional film in the Amazonian Tukano language. Their film The Princess in the Alleyway was named Best Film of 2017 by the Subversive Cinema Society, and their 2019 documentary The Other Side of the Other aired for two years on Brazilian public TV. In addition to publishing academic articles, novels, and books on topics from political philosophy to Amazonian epidemiology, he's also produced hip-hop and pop albums, and earned a Fulbright, Harvard's First Decade Award, the Freedom to Create Prize, and the UN Intercultural Innovation Award. In 2022, he was named an Academic Visitor at Oxford University. https://usinadaimaginacao.org/ https://br.linkedin.com/company/usina-da-imagina%C3%A7%C3%A3o/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7QgkCOElSc https://shinealight.org Russ Phaneuf , a co-founder of IPM Advancement, has a background in higher education development, with positions at the University of Hartford, Northern Arizona University, and Thunderbird School of Global Management. As IPM's managing director & chief strategist, Russ serves as lead fundraising strategist, award-winning content creator, and program analyst specializing in applied system dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/russphaneuf/ Rich Frazier has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 35 years. In his roles as senior consultant with IPM Advancement and founder of VisionConnect LLC , Rich offers extensive understanding and knowledge in capital campaigns, fund development, strategic planning, and board of directors development. https://www.linkedin.com/in/richfrazier/ https://www.visionconnectllc.com/