Best Nonprofit Capacity Building Podcasts (2025)

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From Ask to Confirmation: Optimizing the User Experience on Your Donation Page 24:22

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1d ago24:22

24:22

Making an emotional connection with your donors is key to fundraising success. But what happens when that emotional momentum hits a digital wall? So often, the moment a donor is ready to make a gift, the experience on your website feels different, broken, or disconnected—and that can cost you a donation and, more importantly, the trust you’ve worke…

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Major Gifts for Small Nonprofits 23:31

23h ago23:31

23:31

Send us a text Small nonprofits deserve BIG support. However, many fundraisers stumble while trying one to one relationships with major donors without it feeling fake, forced, or transactional. Fundraising is not sales; it is matchmaking. At the heart of every major gift is a shared why: the values and experiences that connect you, your mission, an…

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5 Fundraising Practices That Drain Your Energy (and What to Do Instead) 20:16

9d ago20:16

20:16

Fundraising is the lifeblood of your nonprofit—but it doesn’t have to leave you and your team exhausted. In this episode, host Matt Stockman shares five common fundraising practices that drain small nonprofit leaders of their limited energy and capacity. More importantly, he offers practical alternatives that build sustainability, trust, and strong…

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Episode 195: What does effective design feedback look like? 16:43

9d ago16:43

16:43

Smart design feedback is possible; it just requires clarity, collaboration, and strategy. Join J Kelley, senior account manager and host of this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, as they chat with Randi Gibson, graphic designer, and Sandy Zimmerman, design director, about effective design feedback. Follow along for strategies to make the…

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Why “Tips and Tricks” Are Failing Fundraisers 15:09

8d ago15:09

15:09

This one has been simmering inside me for months. It’s about the language we use in the nonprofit sector—and why we need to be more mindful of it. Specifically, I’m making a plea to eliminate phrases like “tips and tricks” when we talk about engaging donors. Because giving is not a “trick.” Donors are not targets. And we are not magicians trying to…

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Audience Building for Nonprofits 23:12

8d ago23:12

23:12

By Further Together: Fundraising Strategies for Nonprofit Organizations

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Turn Donor Questions Into Confidence: Lessons from Charity: Water 18:21

17d ago18:21

18:21

How do you build lasting trust with donors when your nonprofit is small and your budget is limited? In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, Matt takes a deep dive into one of the most recognized nonprofits in the world—Charity: Water—and uncovers what every small or startup nonprofit can learn from their approach. You’ll discover: The…

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AI in Nonprofits: Re-engaging Your Community 18:30

15d ago18:30

18:30

Send us a text Storytelling is the heartbeat of nonprofit fundraising - and now, AI is giving organizations new ways to capture and share those stories while still keeping a human touch at the center. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria Rio sits down with Gustavo Zylberberg, Co-founder and CEO of Vitalcy, an AI-powered alumni enga…

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Episode 194: How can you communicate with candor and care? 17:43

21d ago17:43

17:43

Communicating with candor can be kind and helpful. Farra Trompeter, co-director, talks with Keyante Love, founder and president of Good Love Group, to discuss navigating power dynamics, embracing discomfort, and staying grounded in your values when collaborating with your team and your community.By Big Duck

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Strategies for Major Donor Retention 17:47

23d ago17:47

17:47

Only 45% of first-time major donors come back. Let that sink in. For years, I believed winning that first major gift was the hardest part—until I realized the real challenge (and transformation) is turning new donors into lifelong champions. In this episode, I share personal stories, the tools I use, and proven strategies for moving beyond transact…

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Donor Stewardship: Community-Centric Segmentation and Practices 28:30

24d ago28:30

28:30

Send us a text Your top donors don’t just write big cheques; they could be folding newsletters in your conference room every Tuesday or serving on your board for the third consecutive year. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, we're exploring on what it means to steward supporters through a Community-Centric Fundraising lens. We're shari…

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Beyond A Thank You Note: Building A Donor Communication Plan 21:18

29d ago21:18

21:18

In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman addresses a common fear among nonprofit leaders: annoying their donors. He explains that most donors actually stop giving because they don't hear from the organization, not because they lose interest. Matt breaks down why donor communication isn't a transactional obligation, b…

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Why DEI Fails in Nonprofits (and How to Do It Right) 27:11

29d ago27:11

27:11

Send us a text Is your nonprofit struggling to turn DEI intentions into meaningful action? Fear, burnout, and performative allyship often hold us back from creating truly equitable organizations. But what if we could move beyond discomfort into sustainable change? In this episode, Maria sits down with Jonathan Meagher-Zayas, an equity educator and …

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CapDev Compass Report 2024 Deep Dive #3: Mobilizing Collaboration for Transformative Impact 56:39

1M ago56:39

56:39

Compass Reports: Navigating Findings from a Statewide Survey of Nonprofits and Funders CapDev conducted a first-of-its-kind statewide survey of nonprofits and funders in 2024 - Nonprofit Outlook - and has summarized its key findings in the Compass Report, released at the annual NC Center for Nonprofits Conference. Having gathered input on the resul…

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Nonprofit Finances 101: Your First 3 Steps 16:50

1M ago16:50

16:50

Are you a new or small nonprofit leader who gets a knot in your stomach at the mention of "finances"? You're not alone. Most of us get into this work to make an impact, not to stare at spreadsheets. But ignoring the numbers can put your mission at risk. In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits,…

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Episode 193: How can you keep your communications plan alive? 23:09

1M ago23:09

23:09

Is your communications plan sitting untouched? We have swapped roles for this episode of the Smart Communications Podcast, with our director of service development, Ally Dommu as host and Farra Trompeter, co-director, as her guest, who explore how to keep your communications plan useful, relevant, and responsive, even in chaotic times.…

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Breaking Down Silos: Why the Future of Fundraising is Human-Centered 20:23

1M ago20:23

20:23

Feeling stuck between fundraising approaches? Break down the silos! I’ve seen the fundraising divide firsthand—and I believe there’s a better way. I call it human-centered fundraising. I recently heard a longtime donor say, “I’m tired of being just a checkbook. I want to be part of something bigger.” I’ve felt that tension, too. Donor fatigue is re…

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Social Enterprise: Earned Revenue for Nonprofits 20:03

1M ago20:03

20:03

Send us a text Social enterprises aren't only about earning or diversifying revenue; they’re key to finding creative, sustainable ways to advance your mission while serving your community with dignity. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, host Maria Rio chats with Tom Armitage, who has been leading The SEED, a project of the Guelph Commu…

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Stop Selling Your Shortfalls 6:44

1M ago6:44

6:44

When your funding pitch starts with a budget gap, you position your organization as a cost. When you start with the gap in your community, you position yourself as the solution — and solutions get funded. In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca shares how arts leaders can shift their messaging to lead with impact, not shortfalls. Drawing f…

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Leading When It's Raining: 4 Principles To Be The Leader Your Team Needs When the Road Gets Tough 15:29

1M ago15:29

15:29

In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host Matt Stockman shares four essential principles for leading your team through difficult seasons. Every nonprofit faces storms—whether it's staff turnover, a shift in funding, or external political changes. How a leader responds during these times can define the future of the organization. Ma…

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Becoming Ken: What Fundraisers Can Learn about Dignity, Trust, and Self-Worth 1:01:35

2M ago1:01:35

1:01:35

Your self-worth ≠ your last “no” That’s what Ken Miller told me during a conversation that left me rethinking how we lead, fundraise, and show up for everyone—not just donors. From the heights of Ivy League success to the lows of prison, Ken’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, dignity, and knowing your worth. His lessons on boundaries, self-e…

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The Network Myth: A Hiring Red Flag 16:23

2M ago16:23

16:23

Send us a text Relying on a fundraiser’s personal network isn’t a fundraising strategy; it’s a shortcut that can cost your nonprofit big in the long run. In this episode, Maria Rio and Caitlin McBride unpack why this common hiring question is a major red flag, what it reveals about an organization’s approach to fundraising, and how small nonprofits…

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From Chaos to Clarity: 4 Common Self-Leadership Mistakes and How To Avoid Them 26:17

2M ago26:17

26:17

In this episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small and Growing Nonprofits", host Matt Stockman dives into the critical topic of self-leadership for nonprofit professionals. Drawing from recent coaching conversations, Matt explores four common mistakes that startup, small, and growing nonprofit leaders make. These aren't intent…

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Episode 192: How can you consolidate feedback? 16:59

2M ago16:59

16:59

Managing feedback doesn’t have to be messy or overwhelming. In this episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by J Kelley, senior account manager, to walk through thoughtful steps to synthesize and clarify feedback—helping teams collaborate more efficiently, reduce confusion, and move forward with confidence.…

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How to Build Trust and Stand Firm in Fundraising 53:44

2M ago53:44

53:44

Why do we still treat donors like royalty and our teams like afterthoughts? After years in fundraising, I’ve seen how trust, power dynamics, and deep listening can make (or break) our impact. In my latest conversation with sector leader Martha Schumacher, we dig into trust-based philanthropy, standing firm against mission creep, and why real integr…

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5 Trends Redefining Nonprofits by 2035 28:44

2M ago28:44

28:44

Send us a text The nonprofit world is changing FAST - and the way we fundraise, build teams, and connect with communities is being rewritten in real time. If you’ve been feeling the tension between keeping your nonprofit afloat today and preparing for tomorrow, this episode is a must-listen. In this solo episode, Maria Rio dives into five powerful …

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Demystifying Tech and AI for Nonprofits, a Conversation with David Watters 45:25

2M ago45:25

45:25

Demystifying Tech & AI for Nonprofits with David Watters In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, host Matt Stockman dives into a topic that can feel overwhelming for new and small nonprofits: technology, automation, and AI. Matt's guest is David Watters, CEO of Simple and Engaging, a company …

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Why We Keep Proving the Wrong Case for Arts Funding 6:32

2M ago6:32

6:32

Are you still trying to prove your value with ticket sales and attendance numbers—only to see funding stay flat or disappear altogether? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca exposes why the traditional case for arts funding no longer works—and what we must do differently if we want sustainable investment in the arts. You’ll hear how 20 …

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Bridging the Gap: Blending Donor and Community-Centered Fundraising 16:53

2M ago16:53

16:53

Burned out by fundraising debates? I know how exhausting it feels when donor-centered vs. community-centered fundraising pulls us apart—while donor fatigue and burnout drag us down. But what if there’s a more human, powerful way forward? In this episode, I share how I learned to build bridges, not barriers, and saw philanthropy—and team morale—soar…

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Custom GPTs for Nonprofits A Step-by-Step Guide by Maria Rio 16:54

2M ago16:54

16:54

Send us a text About The Episode AI is here to stay, and many nonprofits are already embracing it. In this episode, we break down how you can set up your own custom GPT to save time, boost donor engagement, and make your team’s life a whole lot easier. Whether you're writing thank-you emails, managing volunteers, or brainstorming fundraising ideas,…

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Episode 191: Why should funders invest in grantee communications capacity? 19:07

2M ago19:07

19:07

What does it look like when a foundation goes beyond grants to strengthen nonprofits? Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Brittany DeNovellis, capacity building program manager, at the T. Rowe Price Foundation, share how communications capacity building can deepen impact at your organization.…

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The 100 Million Impact Initiative: A Personal Vision & Invitation 13:05

2M ago13:05

13:05

Welcome to a special episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits" where Matt Stockman, your host, shares a deeply personal and inspiring vision for the future! We often talk about the 6 key areas of nonprofit success (Leadership, Development/Fundraising, Marketing, Programs & Services, Operations, and Fi…

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People-First Leadership for Nonprofits with Marisa Tran and Maria Rio 25:40

2M ago25:40

25:40

Send us a text Ever tried to juggle visionary ideas, tight budgets, and a team that spans every learning style under the sun? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria sits down with management coach and EDI powerhouse Marisa Tran (they/them) to unpack what “people-first, consent-based leadership” really looks like when you’re running a small s…

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From Overwhelm to Opportunity: AI and the Modern Fundraiser 57:27

2M ago57:27

57:27

Curiosity beats fear—every single time. Ever felt like AI is just spinning faster than you can keep up? I’ve been there—overwhelmed by “the next big thing” while trying to deliver more, with less, for my organization. In my latest conversation with AI thought leader Nathan Chappell, I discovered game-changing ways to shift from anxiety to opportuni…

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Beyond the Big Gift: Building a Resilient Nonprofit with Consistent Support 18:50

2M ago18:50

18:50

In this episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," host Matt Stockman dives into two crucial, interconnected topics for your nonprofit's financial health: the incredible benefits of monthly giving programs and critical pitfalls to avoid with high-capacity donors. Discover how consistent support can provide peace of mind and predictability, and…

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Honoring Voices: Building an Ethical Storytelling Culture in Nonprofits 48:55

2M ago48:55

48:55

We don't need more “poverty porn” in our fundraising. I used to think telling hard stories was the only way to move donors—but I was wrong. If you’ve ever felt uneasy asking clients for stories, or unsure if your consent process would stand up to scrutiny, you’re not alone. I sat down with ethical storytelling expert Carly Euler from MemoryFox to e…

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Planned Giving and Community-Centric Fundraising with Chantelle Ohrling and Maria Rio 23:10

2M ago23:10

23:10

Send us a text Good Works estimates that a staggering $280 billion in estate wealth is expected to flow into Canadian charities. That’s not a number small nonprofits can afford to overlook. Planned giving doesn’t have to be exclusive, intimidating, or tax-code-heavy. In this episode, we dive into how small nonprofits can approach planned giving in …

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Your Nonprofit's Backbone: CEO and Board Essentials with Special Guest Bob Lonac 26:20

3M ago26:20

26:20

Welcome to the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits! In this episode, host Matt Stockman sits down with special guest Bob Lonac, a seasoned expert in nonprofit leadership with a remarkable career, including roles at Young Life, International Justice Mission, and CRISTA. Bob is also the author of "Live Large: Sev…

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Episode 190: How can you move from self-care to collective care? 25:10

3M ago25:10

25:10

What if self-care wasn’t just personal but team-wide? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Lan To, senior consultant and executive coach at Community Resource Exchange (CRE), to examine CAREpacity, a powerful approach to organizational wellness and care-driven leadership.By Big Duck

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Digital Heartbeats: Engaging Major Donors in a Virtual World 15:33

3M ago15:33

15:33

Are your donor relationships thriving—or just surviving? Most nonprofits rely on mass emails and generic updates—then wonder why major donors disappear. Here’s the truth: Connection isn’t about the channel. It’s about intentionality.. After 30+ years in fundraising, I’ve learned what actually works in a digital world: → Personalize every touchpoint…

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Realistic fundraising goals: Budgeting for Nonprofits with Maria and Caitlin 26:20

3M ago26:20

26:20

Send us a text Too many small nonprofits build their budgets on optimism alone, dreaming big without the strategy or infrastructure to back it up. This episode is all about why that’s a problem, and how to stop the cycle of setting fundraising goals that hurt more than they help. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio and co-host Caitlin…

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Fundraising Psychology: Using Cognitive Biases for Good 18:09

3M ago18:09

18:09

Send us a text Street fundraising teaches you more than grit, it teaches you the psychology of yes. Maria shares how to use these powers for good. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria shares real-world insights from her time as a face-to-face fundraiser, where she learned the science and subtlety behind why people say yes. It’s abo…

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Embracing the Subscription Model in Nonprofit Giving 1:01:19

3M ago1:01:19

1:01:19

Donor counts are dropping—even as giving hits record highs. This isn’t just a headline. It’s the reality I unpacked with Dave Raley on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast. We dove into why recurring giving is the bright spot in a shifting landscape—and why too many nonprofits still treat it like an afterthought. For years, I thought monthly giving w…

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From Impact To Influence: Telling Your Nonprofit's Stories Well 19:41

3M ago19:41

19:41

Unlock the power of storytelling to transform your nonprofit's marketing! In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host and nonprofit growth coach Matt Stockman dives deep into "From Impact to Influence: Telling Your Nonprofit's Stories Well". Discover why compelling stories create emotional connections, simplify complex ideas, and ins…

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Episode 189: How can you get more out of your rebrand? 13:16

3M ago13:16

13:16

Learn how to make your nonprofit’s rebrand last. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sandy Zimmerman, design director, explore how nonprofits can go beyond the brand launch and learn how to bring your rebrand to life —and keep it thriving.By Big Duck

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Marketing Without Harm: How Nonprofits Can Communicate With Integrity 24:20

3M ago24:20

24:20

Send us a text Marketing doesn’t have to mean manipulation. But for many small nonprofits, common practices like donor recognition, emotional appeals, and urgency-driven fundraising can unintentionally cause harm. In this episode, Maria and anti-oppressive marketer Natalia Sanyal unpack how to shift your messaging and methods without compromising y…

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Drawing a Line Between Fundraiser and Donor 15:59

3M ago15:59

15:59

Ever felt like your donor relationships are turning into guilt trips? After nearly 30 years in major gifts, I’ve seen how easy it is for the line between professionalism and friendship to blur. One story still sticks with me: a fundraiser got so close to a donor, she couldn’t bring herself to ask for support. The result? The mission lost out. Here’…

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Crafting Your Nonprofit's North Star: The Vision Statement 22:26

3M ago22:26

22:26

Are you building a nonprofit with lasting impact? Welcome back to "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits!" In this essential Part 2 episode, host Matt Stockman dives deep into the crucial, yet often misunderstood, nonprofit vision statement. Many people confuse mission and vision, but they serve distinct purp…

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Nonprofit Leadership: Practical Tools to Reduce Burnout 23:48

3M ago23:48

23:48

Send us a text Running a small nonprofit often means juggling strategy, people, programs, and inbox chaos, all while making what feels like a million decisions a day. If you’ve ever felt stuck between leading and just trying to keep up, this episode is for you. In this candid and insightful conversation, Maria chats with returning guest Veronica La…

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Is Your Mission Statement Sabotaging Your Nonprofit? Crafting A Mission for Maximum Impact 20:52

4M ago20:52

20:52

Welcome to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast! In this foundational episode, your host Matt Stockman tackles the single most important reason most nonprofits fail—and it isn't a lack of funding. It's a lack of clarity. Your organization's mission statement is the bedrock of your success, influencing everything from leadership and fundraising to dail…