x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

The Focused Fundraiser

What if doing less made you a better fundraiser? Welcome to The Focused Fundraiser — the podcast for nonprofit leaders who are tired of the chaos and ready to prioritize what actually drives impact. Hosted by Rob Burke, each episode features honest conversations with fundraisers in the trenches who are cutting through the noise, saying no to the never-ending to-do list, and focusing on what matters most. We cover: ✔️ Fundraising strategy that doesn’t burn you out ✔️ High-touch stewardship that

business careers

All Episodes

22:56

Beating Imposter Syndrome and Raising Millions: A...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/11/11

This interview features Elizabeth Scott, Director of Development at Galleo Latino Community Development Fund, sharing her journey from ordering copy paper at the League of Women Voters to managing a multimillion-dollar fundraising budget. Elizabeth Scott discusses practical fundraising strategies including grant writing techniques, the importance of accurate data and approachable language, and building relationships with funders. She emphasizes planning ahead by using slow periods to prepare grants,

en

20:22

Identify • Engage • Ask • Steward: Fundraising That...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/11/04

In this episode, Amy Pocola, a seasoned nonprofit strategist, shares her journey into fundraising, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what truly matters. She discusses the common challenges faced by fundraisers, regardless of the size of their organizations, and highlights the significance of building strong donor relationships. Amy encourages fundraisers to prepare for key giving periods while maintaining a long-term vision and strategic planning. She also stresses the importance of

en

15:22

Run Your Nonprofit Like a Business (Without Losing...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/10/28

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, host Rob Burke sits down with Kristen Mitchell, co-founder & executive director of Youth Futures, to unpack practical nonprofit fundraising strategies: leading as an accidental fundraiser, why authenticity beats charisma, lessons from capital campaigns, building business-grade systems, and how to prioritize donor outreach with time blocking, your CRM, and LinkedIn/Sales Navigator. Kristen also shares a refreshing take on “burnout,” staff wellness

en

26:58

20,000 Calls, $16M Raised: Kel Haney’s Phone Strategy...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/10/21

Focusing on building strong donor relationships is key to successful nonprofit fundraising. To improve your nonprofit organization, implement effective fundraising strategies and follow essential fundraising tips. Strong nonprofit strategies lead to better donor relationships and overall success.In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, host Rob Burke sits down with fundraising consultant Kel Haney—who’s made 20,000+ fundraising calls and helped raise $16M—to unpack a realistic, phone-first

en

21:09

Faith, Fundraising, and Finding Purpose at 60 |...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/10/14

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, host Rob Burke sits down with Debbie Oxford, founder and president of Grow Our Faith Ministries, to explore what it really means to live your calling — and fund it. From selling everything to move to Kenya at 60 to rescuing children and building wells, Debbie’s story reminds us that purpose and generosity are deeply connected.Discover how she found new life through mission work, her honest take on the realities of fundraising, and why she believes “if it’s

en

19:02

Donor Expectations Have Shifted—Here’s How to Keep Up

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/10/07

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, host Rob Burke sits down with Chris Maggiolo, Deputy Executive Director at Black River Innovation Campus (BRIC) in Vermont, to unpack how a rural innovation nonprofit shifted from relying on federal and state grants to building a stronger philanthropy and individual giving engine.You’ll learn how BRIC uses data-driven fundraising and clear impact metrics to win support, why cross-sector partnerships (with universities, industry, and nonprofits) are now

en

26:35

Nonprofit Storytelling & Events That Inspire Giving |...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/09/30

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, Rob Burke sits down with Ada O’Quain, Donor Engagement Manager at the Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. Ada shares her journey into nonprofit fundraising, the lessons she’s learned navigating burnout, hurricanes, and community challenges in Southwest Louisiana, and how she keeps her focus on what matters most.You’ll learn how to:• Balance donor storytelling with statistics to inspire giving. • Build lasting donor relationships through

en

32:36

Stop Feast or Famine Fundraising

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/09/23

Nonprofit fundraising is changing, but donors are still giving. In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, former Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO and current Scouting America development leader Erin Davison breaks down how to win with donor intentionality, raw storytelling, and simple focus you can sustain.You will learn how to:- Align with today’s more intentional donors through clear priorities and mission fit- Use raw, phone-shot storytelling to drive real engagement across generations- Segment

en

21:56

Burnout, Balance, & Capital Campaigns | Frances Roen...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/09/16

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, Rob Burke sits down with Frances Roen, founder of Fundraising Sol, to talk about what really drives successful fundraising. From her early days at the Bakken Museum to launching her own consultancy, Frances shares powerful insights on burnout, prioritization, capital campaigns, and the importance of wellness for nonprofit teams.If you’re a fundraiser juggling too many priorities, this episode will help you pause, focus, and find clarity in your work.Frances

en

24:56

From Teacher to Fundraiser: Donor Expectations &...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/09/09

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, host Rob Burke sits down with Maya Severns, Director of Development and Marketing at LION Charter School in New York, to explore the real-world challenges and strategies of fundraising in today’s nonprofit landscape.Maya shares her journey from teaching to development, the lessons she’s learned about donor relationships, and how her team integrates marketing and fundraising to maximize impact. Together, they discuss how to stay mission-driven, avoid

en

25:47

Major Gifts Fundraising in 2025: How to Win with Joy...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/09/02

In this episode of The Focused Fundraiser, Rob Burke sits down with fundraising consultant Jake Kubik, founder of Valuable Visits, to talk about the real practices that move the needle in fundraising.Jake shares his journey from healthcare administration to major gifts officer to launching his own consulting practice. Together, we dive deep into: • Why authentic human relationships will always be the foundation of major gifts fundraising • How AI tools can streamline admin work so fundraisers can

en

15:37

Executive Director Secrets: Activating Boards &...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/08/26

In this episode, Carrie Grover, the executive director of TCCC, shares her journey from a stay-at-home mom to a nonprofit leader. She emphasizes that successful fundraising is about building relationships and creativity rather than just asking for money. Carrie highlights the importance of board support and training, as well as the need for difficult conversations regarding performance. TCCC has seen significant growth by focusing on effective programs and adapting to changes in funding sources

en

23:19

How to Make Donors Feel the Mission (and Give More)

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/08/19

In a heartfelt discussion, a seasoned fundraiser shares her journey from falling into the nonprofit sector to becoming an executive director. She emphasizes the importance of meaningful work and the direct impact fundraising has on organizations, particularly in addressing issues like food insecurity. The conversation highlights the need for honesty in fundraising and the value of inviting donors into the organization's story. Additionally, she discusses the challenges of burnout in leadership roles

en

23:26

Fundraise your way: Why Following Your Mission Beats...

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/08/05

en

20:10

Why Authenticity Wins in Fundraising

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/07/29

In this conversation, Rob Burke and Ian Toville discuss the evolving landscape of fundraising, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing what truly matters in nonprofit work. Ian shares his experiences transitioning from the for-profit sector to nonprofit fundraising, highlighting the shift towards collaboration among organizations in Maine. They explore the significance of authentic connections with donors, the need for flexibility and experimentation in fundraising strategies, and the importance

en

21:44

How to Focus in a World of Lemonade Stands

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/07/22

In this episode, Rob sits down with Kevin Mehrer, Development Director at Scouting America’s Northern Lights Council, to talk about the real magic in fundraising: focus, relationships, and human connection.Kevin shares: • Why unscalable, personal touches matter more than ever • How to avoid burnout by asking for help and protecting your energy • The danger of transactional giving (and what to do instead) • How wildly important goals (WIGs) help fight mission creep • The underestimated power of

en

13:39

Less Events, More Relationships: A Fundraising Evolution

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/07/15

In this conversation, Rob Burke and Trevor McPherson discuss effective fundraising strategies, emphasizing the importance of relationship building over traditional event-based fundraising. Trevor shares his journey from a sports performance background to becoming the Director of Development at the Kinder Smile Foundation, highlighting the changes in the fundraising landscape, the significance of utilizing CRM systems, and the necessity of setting clear goals to avoid burnout. The discussion provides

en

17:59

From Global to Local: A Fundraiser's Journey

The Focused Fundraiser ·

2025/07/09

In this inaugural episode of the Focused Fundraiser, Rob Burke and Courtney Harrness discuss the essence of effective fundraising, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what truly matters. Courtney shares her journey in the nonprofit sector, highlighting the shift from a global to a local impact mindset. They explore the significance of prioritizing human connections, leveraging technology for relationship management, and strategies to avoid burnout in the demanding world of fundraising. The

en

18 results

Similar Podcasts

TaxTalent.com The Golden Rule Podcast

Adam Golden

TaxTalent.com Podcast

Tony Santiago

Handelsblatt Crime - spannende Streitfälle der deutschen Wirtschaft

Ina Karabasz, Solveig Gode, Sönke Iwersen

Deffner und Zschäpitz – Der Wirtschafts-Talk von WELT

WELT

Black Box - La scatola nera della finanza

Guido Brera e Gian Luca Comandini -...