Afleveringen
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Last year, I worked with a client who was outwardly successful- they had just wrapped a major capital campaign and were bringing in over $2 million annually. But behind the scenes, they were working around the clock, checking emails late into the evening, and spending weekends catching up on work. When we started coaching together, their biggest desire wasnât another big win,it was a different way to work.
In this episode, I talk about what it means to raise more by doing less, why growth often comes through subtraction, and how our internal beliefs about worthiness can either fuel or completely block our success. This is a deeply personal, honest conversation about why so many of us in the nonprofit space tie our worth to our output and how that mindset is costing us.
What we cover in this episode:
The story of a client who looked successful on the outsideâbut felt unworthy insideWhy doing more isnât the key to raising more moneyHow to identify your âBig Asksâ and apply the 80/20 principleThe difference between working from worthiness vs working for worthinessWhy we often overwork, avoid asking for help, and tolerate misaligned donorsHow our subconscious beliefs about money, success, and worth can block major giftsThe silent damage of perfectionism, people-pleasing, and proving ourselvesWhy judgment of wealthy donors might be sabotaging your fundraisingAn invitation to reflect on your worthâand what it would mean to truly accept itThis episode is raw, real, and reflective. If youâve ever felt like your work, your results, or your impact are what make you worthy- this is your reminder that you already are. Your worth is not up for debate. Not based on your to-do list, your revenue goals, or how many people you help. I hope this conversation gives you the courage to lead, fundraise, and live from a place of truth and worthiness not exhaustion and overcompensation.
If this resonated with you, Iâd love to hear from you. Take a moment to reflect and maybe even share this episode with someone who needs to hear it too.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey friend â today's episode is one of those real talk moments we all need. If you're a leader or a fundraiser trying to navigate this wild moment in time, I want you to know: you're not imagining things. Things are changing. Funders are pulling back. DEI efforts are being defunded. And the economic and political climate is shaky at best.
But here's the truth: in uncertain times, you can still be unstoppable.
In this episode, I'm sharing what it takes to lead boldly, raise major gifts, and build crisis-proof relationships â no matter whatâs happening around you. Iâve seen firsthand what happens when leaders double down on growth, strategy, and self-leadership. And Iâve also seen what happens when we freeze and play small. We canât afford to do that anymore.
What we cover in this episode:Why the old strategies won't work anymore (and what to do instead)How to build funding relationships that actually lastWhat it means to become truly self-led as a fundraiser and leaderThe power of iteration and how I learned to fundraise in the middle of the Great RecessionThe mindset shift you must make if you want to raise more with less stressWhy being bold attracts bold donors â and how to stop playing smallA reminder that you donât have to do this alone (and in fact, you shouldnât)This episode is your invitation to step into the next level of your leadership. If you've been tuning in week after week, soaking up the pep talks â amazing. But the truth is, thatâs not enough anymore.
If youâre ready to:Get real supportUplevel your skillsStop spinning your wheels and start seeing resultsThen now is the time to take action. Join Courage Lab or get inside Get Real Coaching. You already know the free stuff is powerful â just imagine whatâs possible when we actually work together.
No more waiting. No more hoping things will get better. Bold leadership starts with you.
Until next time â see ya.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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If youâre looking to raise major gifts without working till 10 PM every night, this episode is for you. Iâm breaking down exactly how my client raised $10.2 million in unrestricted revenue from individuals in just 12 months without burnout.
This episode is especially for you if you already have individual donors (including monthly donors and board members who give personally or through their companies). Major gifts are a priority for your nonprofitâs revenue strategy. You have at least one person helping with fundraising, even if theyâre just getting started. You want to become a stronger leader, a better fundraiser, and honestly a better human while doing this work.
But if youâre just looking for strategy and tactics without personal growth? This might not be your jam. There are plenty of people who can give you just the strategy, but I focus on both professional and personal development. If that sounds good to you, keep listening!
What We Cover in This Episode:The biggest mindset shifts my clients make to go from overwhelmed to effective.The common mistake of thinking you need to âdo moreâ to raise more money - and what actually works instead.Why hiring consultants who add busy work wonât move the needle.How understanding wealth, non-liquid assets, and donor motivations leads to bigger gifts.The three key pillars that drive fundraising success: Strategy, Skills, and Self.How my coaching helps fundraisers double their revenue without doubling their workload.I got into fundraising 16 years ago because I needed a job. I had no experience, but someone took a chance on me and trained me. I learned the ropes the hard way - working way too much for way too little, losing sleep, my hair falling out. I thought success meant doing everything and burning myself out in the process.
Fast forward to today: Iâve raised millions of dollars for top organizations, worked with some of the best mentors in the industry, and now I teach nonprofit leaders how to do the same without the burnout.
Success comes down to three key factors. First, having the right strategy where you spend your time matters. We start by analyzing your calendar, optimizing your time management, and creating a plan that actually works. Second, developing the right skills is essential. This includes learning how to have powerful donor conversations, crafting compelling messaging, and mastering negotiation so you stop settling for small gifts. Finally, success depends on you, your mindset, leadership, and personal growth. Fundraising isnât just about tactics; itâs about how you show up and lead with confidence.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, Iâm diving into a question that came up inside my six-month coaching and training program, Courage Lab 2.0. If you havenât checked it out yet, you totally shouldâpeople inside are seeing incredible results, making big moves, and getting a huge return on their investment.
During one of our recent community Q&A calls, someone asked a really important question: What do you do when a donor who previously committed to giving a certain amount suddenly decides to give less? Maybe they cite political or economic uncertainty, or their priorities are shiftingâeither way, it puts you in a tough spot.
Iâve seen this scenario play out many times, and there are two main ways to approach it. In this episode, I break down both paths and share how I navigate these conversations with boldness and leadership. Because hereâs the thingâthis isnât a new phenomenon, and itâs not going away. But as fundraisers and leaders, we have to step up, challenge the status quo, and advocate for the resources we need to do our work effectively.
What we cover in this episode:
How to respond when a donor changes their commitmentThe importance of getting curious before reactingWhy values clarification is key in donor relationshipsHow to position your organization as a top-performing investmentThe power of bold, direct conversations that hold donors accountableWhy now is the time to lead, not settle for lessIf youâve ever had a donor change course on you, this episode will give you the mindset and strategy to handle it with confidence. Itâs time to lead with courage and make sure the best, most effective organizationsâlike yoursâget the funding they deserve.
Listen in, take notes, and let me know what resonates with you!
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey friend! In this episode, Iâm walking you through a case study of what Iâd do if I were part of Samaritanâa nonprofit thatâs tackling homelessness in an innovative way. Theyâve built a tech platform that connects unhoused neighbors with social and financial capital to help them move forward. Itâs a mission thatâs close to my heart, and I see so much opportunity for growth.
So, hereâs the fun part: If I were in their shoes, how would I raise $5 million in six months? Letâs break it down.
What We Cover in This Episode:Why Samaritanâs model is so compelling and different from traditional nonprofitsThe three main revenue streams Iâd focus on to hit a $5M fundraising goalHow to maximize corporate healthcare partnerships for bigger investmentsThe power of unrestricted funding from high-net-worth donors and family foundationsEngaging and scaling a grassroots volunteer donor programThe role of a strong board and network in attracting major fundingThe importance of storytelling, data, and strategic donor outreachThis episode is all about strategy, innovation, and thinking bigger when it comes to funding a mission-driven organization. Whether youâre in the nonprofit world or just love hearing about creative fundraising approaches, I think youâll get a lot out of this one.
Letâs Connect:If you found this episode helpful, send me a message! Iâd love to hear your thoughts. And if youâre part of a nonprofit looking to scale, this might give you some fresh ideas to apply.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey friend, I had an eye-opening strategy session with a client last week, and I have to share it with you. She came to our call struggling with prioritizing the ask in her fundraising efforts. She was caught up in the day-to-day grind, and when I asked her how many asks she made last month, she had no idea. Sound familiar?
Hereâs the thing: If youâre not tracking your asks, how do you know youâre not making enough?
In this episode, I break down why tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is critical for fundraising success. You may have big revenue goals, but if you're only tracking how much money you've raised, you're missing key data points that tell you how to adjust your strategy in real time.
What Youâll Learn in This Episode:
- The difference between lagging indicators(like money raised) and leading indicators (like asks made)
- Why tracking your daily fundraising activities matters more than just the end-of-year total
- How setting and tracking the right KPIs can give you clarity, accountability, and confidence in your fundraising strategy
- The emotional intelligence and communication skills you need to make stronger, more effective asks
- How radical accountabilityâboth for yourself and your teamâcan transform your fundraising results
Ask Yourself:
- How many asks are you making each month?
- Are you tracking your progress daily, or waiting until itâs too late?
- Is your team holding themselves accountable, or are you picking up the slack?
If you want to grow your fundraising revenue, itâs time to stop guessing and start tracking the right things. Tune in now and letâs get to work!
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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This episode is a little differentâit's a snippet from a coaching call where we dive deep into the "Ten Asks in Ten Days" challenge. If youâve ever struggled with making bold asks, whether in fundraising, business, or life, this oneâs for you.
I started my business nearly seven years ago because I saw so many smart, relationally savvy leaders who were âstuckâânot because they lacked strategy, but because they lacked courage. I kept hearing, âI need a better strategy,â but what I realized? Strategy wasnât the issue. People just werenât taking action. They werenât making the ask.
So, I became a student of courage. I read, I studied, I surrounded myself with bold people, and I learned that courage isnât something that just âhappensââitâs built. Itâs designed. And itâs necessary if weâre going to do the work that actually moves the needle.
Why We Donât Ask (And Why That Needs to Change)
I canât tell you how many times Iâve heard, âIâm just not comfortable asking for that amount.â And let me be real with youâthat both breaks my heart and fires me up. If we want to raise millions, build reserves, and truly change our communities, we need to get past our discomfort. Because courage isnât about confidence. Itâs about taking risks âeven whenâ confidence isnât there.
The Ten Asks in Ten Days Challenge
Hereâs the deal: Over the next 10 business days, youâre going to make 10 asks.
- These can be professional or personal. Maybe youâre asking a donor for a $10K+ gift. Maybe youâre asking your partner for support. Maybe youâre asking a board member to step up.
- The goal? Push yourself outside your comfort zone. If your asks donât make you at least a little sweaty, youâre playing too safe.
The key? Stay curious. Drop the defense. Listen more than you talk. And when it comes to those big asksâdonât wait until the last minute. Start now.
Whatâs Next?
1. Write down your 10 asksâwho you're asking, what you're asking for, and when youâll do it.
2. Commit to taking action. This is a ârisk sprintââit should stretch you.
3. Be prepared to be âsurprisedâ by how people show up for you.
So, are you in? Letâs make some bold moves. Listen in for the full conversation and letâs get to work!
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Building strong relationships with major donors is essential for nonprofits looking to sustain and grow their impact. Major donors provide significant financial contributions, but more importantly, they become long-term supporters and ambassadors for your cause. In this episode, weâll cover the key strategies to attract and cultivate these high-value donors.
What You Will Learn:
- How to identify potential major donors and understand their giving motivations.
- Effective ways to build relationships and engage with prospective donors.
- The importance of personalized outreach and storytelling.
- Strategies for hosting events and creating exclusive donor experiences.
- How to follow up and maintain long-term donor relationships.
Attracting major donors requires a strategic and relationship-driven approach. By understanding donor motivations, crafting personalized outreach, and offering meaningful engagement opportunities, your nonprofit can build a strong network of committed supporters. Implement these strategies consistently, and youâll create lasting partnerships that fuel your mission for years to come.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hi friend, In this episode, Iâm giving you an inside look at one of our Courage Lab coaching calls. During this session, I shared insights about the relationship between executive directors and development directors and how they can create a culture of feedback to thrive.
Hereâs what youâll hear:
- Why feedback is essential for growth: If your goals include personal and professional growthâor raising more money than ever beforeâfeedback isnât optional. It's critical.
- Lessons from elite athletes: Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant didnât just rely on natural talent; they invested in feedback to refine their skills and gain even the smallest edge.
- The real cost of avoiding feedback: In nonprofits, a lack of accountability often means the community weâre serving pays the price. As leaders, we need to step up, even when itâs uncomfortable.
- Practical strategies for better feedback:
- Be honest consistentlyânot just during annual performance reviews.
- Share feedback immediately to avoid letting frustrations build up.
- Create a culture where feedback flows in all directions: manager-to-team, peer-to-peer, and even upward.
I also share a story about coaching a development team that struggled to get the best out of their staff. Spoiler: The issue wasnât the teamâit was a lack of honest, ongoing feedback from leadership.
If youâve been holding back on giving feedback because youâre afraid of being perceived the wrong way or making someone uncomfortable, this episode is for you. Growth requires courageâand honest conversations.
Enjoy the episode!
Let me know your biggest takeaway, and as always, Iâm cheering you on.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hi friend, welcome back to the podcast. Today, weâre diving into the mindset mistakes that keep our impact, budgets, teams, and dreams too small. If youâre here, I know youâre driven to create bold, transformative changeânot just in your world, but across systems and communities. Me too. But sometimes, our mindset trips us up, and we donât even realize it.
Hereâs what we unpacked in this episode:
- Scarcity Mindset About Money:
Many of us were raised to see money as scarce, stressful, or even taboo to discuss. But wealthy donors view money differentlyâitâs a growing resource, not a pie that disappears. Are you budgeting for your donors or hesitating to ask because you think itâs too much?
- Time vs. Money Perspectives:
Wealthy individuals often value their time more than money. They know they can make more money, but time is irreplaceable. Nonprofit leaders, on the other hand, often ask for volunteersâ time but hesitate to ask for significant financial contributions. Letâs flip the script.
- Fear of Delegating:
âIf I want it done right, Iâll do it myself.â Sound familiar? This mindset limits your team and piles unnecessary work on your shoulders. Trust your team to rise to the occasion, or have the courage to hold them accountable if they donât.
- Avoiding Honest Conversations:
Kindness isnât withholding feedbackâitâs being clear and direct. Radical accountability builds stronger teams. Are you ready to stop sugarcoating and start having real conversations?
- Settling for Passive Boards:
Your board isnât just there for their name on your website. Itâs time to reestablish expectations and turn your board into active partners in fundraising and advocacy.
- Overvaluing Comfort:
Letâs be real: if comfort is your priority, nonprofit fundraising might not be the job for you. Growth and transformation live outside your comfort zone.
- Taking Rejection Personally:
Hearing ânoâ isnât the endâitâs information. The more you hear it, the closer you get to a âyes.â Reframe rejection as part of the process, not a reflection of your worth.
Work on shifting your relationship with time, money, and risk to align with your bold goals. Practice honesty and accountability with your team, board, and donors. Embrace discomfort as a sign youâre growing.
If this resonated with you, letâs connect! Share this episode with a friend, reflect on where these mindset mistakes show up for you, and join me in creating a brave, bold, and generous world.
Thanks for listeningâIâm rooting for you! See you next time.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
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Hi, friend! In this episode of Nonprofit Courage Lab, I dive into what it takes to make serious cultural shifts within your organization. If youâre committed to raising millions in the next few years and creating lasting change, this conversation is for you.
Hereâs what I cover:
- Why culture change is non-negotiable: You canât just hire a fundraiser and expect miracles. To raise millions, your organization needs a culture that fosters accountability, bold leadership, and strategic action.
- The boardâs role in success: Well-intentioned but unhelpful board members can derail your mission. Learn how to hold your board accountable and build a team that aligns with your bold vision.
- Leadership starts with you: Your teamâs performance reflects your leadership. I break down how to lead with courage, clarity, and a coaching mindset to bring out the best in your people.
- The power of direct feedback: Avoiding tough conversations or waiting too long to address performance issues only holds your team back. I share tips on giving feedback that inspires growth.
- Why coaching matters: Being a great leader isnât just about managing tasksâitâs about helping your team uncover their own solutions, develop confidence, and take ownership of their results.
This isnât just about hitting fundraising goalsâitâs about building a sustainable culture of excellence, courage, and impact. To create a culture capable of raising millions, start by auditing your team and board dynamics to address accountability gaps and ensure everyone is positioned for success. Invest in your people through ongoing training, coaching, and development opportunities. Shift from managing to coaching by empowering your team to find solutions and take ownership. Reassess your leadership approach, modeling the culture of excellence you want to see, and clarify expectations with your board, ensuring members take meaningful action toward supporting your goals.
Creating a culture that raises millions requires intentional leadership, direct conversations, and ongoing investment in your people. This transformation wonât happen overnight, but by addressing cultural gaps and modeling bold leadership, you can build an organization capable of achieving extraordinary impact. Nowâs the time to step up, lead with courage, and build the culture that will carry your vision forward.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey friend! This episode is a special oneâa snippet from my recent workshop, Best December Ever. In it, I walk through The Generosity Code, a set of principles I live by and teach my clients. I attribute 80-90% of our fundraising success to these foundational beliefs. Whether youâre looking to close out the year strong or need a mindset shift any time of year, this episode is packed with transformational insights.
Hereâs the heart of it: Giving is a gift to the giver. Fundraising isnât about pleading for help; itâs about inviting people to align their money with their values and become the best versions of themselves. Itâs also important to remember that weâre not entitled to anyoneâs money. Even if weâre doing incredible work, gratitude and humility are crucial. Following up with donors? Thatâs not being pushyâitâs great customer service. Itâs a way to help them follow through on their intentions, especially when life gets busy.
Another key point: Get out of their wallet. Itâs not our job to decide how much someone can or should give. Instead, present your big vision and the financial need, and let them determine their contribution. Lastly, invite, donât push. Weâre in a low-trust moment as a society, and genuine, pressure-free invitations to give resonate far more than high-pressure tactics. Taking the pressure off yourself first will naturally create a more inviting space for your donors.
What Youâll Learn in This Episode:
- The five core principles of The Generosity Code and how they can transform your fundraising.
- Why the right mindset is more critical than tactics and strategies.
- How to shift from scarcity to abundance thinking in your donor conversations.
- Practical approaches to following up with donors without feeling pushy.
- How to frame your asks around your big vision, not just your budget needs.
- The importance of detaching from specific outcomes and leading with gratitude.
These principles are more powerful than any tactic or strategyâthey shape the energy you bring to every conversation and campaign. If you want to go deeper, you can purchase the full Best December Ever training at juliardoniez.com/training. Itâs an invaluable resource to help you raise more money and make a bigger impact year-round. Letâs raise millions and change lives together!
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey friends, Welcome to this weekâs episode, a special replay of a workshop I hosted on end-of-year fundraising strategies. If youâre in the nonprofit or fundraising world, this is a must-listen! Iâm diving into **practical, tactical advice** for how I approach major gift fundraising to crush ambitious year-end goals. Spoiler alert: this is all about keeping it *simple*âbecause simplicity is the vibe here.
Hereâs what youâll hear in this episode:
1. Mapping Your Fundraising Roadmap
We kick things off by setting goals and creating a clear strategy to get there. I break down my personal two-page strategy document and how it helps me stay focused.
2.The Magic of Working Backward
Learn how I approach setting ambitious goalsâlike raising $500Kâand break them down into manageable steps. Whether itâs identifying top donors or focusing on one-on-one asks, Iâll walk you through my thought process.
3.Ask Amounts & Projections
I introduce my âAsk Amount Frameworkâ and show you how to determine the right ask based on a donorâs passion, trust level, and capacity. Then, we dig into projections: how to estimate potential gifts with realistic confidence levels.
4. Courage in Fundraising
Letâs get realâasking for big gifts takes guts! I share my journey from sweating over a $2K ask to confidently asking for millions. Youâll hear how to build your courage muscle and get more comfortable with the big asks.
5. Simple Over Busy
Whether itâs skipping unnecessary events or learning to advocate for your time, Iâll show you how to cut the noise and focus on what really drives results.
6. Donor Engagement Tips
From sending meaningful updates to personalizing your outreach, I share ways to keep donors engaged, invested, and excited to giveâwithout overwhelming yourself.
This is like sitting down with a fundraising coach whoâs giving you the playbook to simplify and amplify your efforts. Whether youâre just starting out or looking to refine your approach, youâll walk away with actionable tools to hit your goals.
Take Action:
I encourage you to workshop your own fundraising strategy as you listen. Think about:
- Your big fundraising goal.
- Who your top 20 donors are.
- What ask amount feels bold but achievable.
Letâs make this end-of-year campaign your best one yet! Enjoy the episode.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey there, friends! In todayâs episode, weâre diving into some big shifts happening in the world of philanthropy and nonprofitsâand why itâs more crucial than ever for us to evolve with the times.
Weâre in a new era. From policy changes on platforms like Facebook that affect nonprofit fundraising to a noticeable decline in DEI and education funding, itâs clear that yesterdayâs strategies wonât carry us forward. Weâre seeing funding sources dry up, priorities shift, and high performers leave the sector. If we donât adapt, we risk getting left behind. And I donât want that for any of you or the causes you champion.
Key Points Covered:
- Changing Fundraising Landscape: Social media platforms and government funding policies are shifting. For example, Facebook is no longer supporting recurring gifts or covering fees, and many big-name philanthropies are cutting their education budgets. To survive and thrive, we need diversified revenue streams and strategies that donât rely on a single source.
- Talent Crisis in Nonprofits: The nonprofit space is struggling to attract, retain, and train talent, especially in development roles. Too often, we see fundraising stars promoted into management roles without the skills or support to truly lead. We need to invest in developing our people and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed.
- Leadership and Growth: Being a great manager isnât about having all the answers; itâs about coaching and supporting your teamâs growth. Itâs time to shift from a mindset of doing it all ourselves to empowering others to lead and create change alongside us.
- Avoiding Burnout: We are stretched thin, often doing multiple roles. Itâs not sustainable. We need to communicate our needs, advocate for better support, and focus on activities that drive meaningful progress. As leaders, we have to model a healthier, more sustainable approach to work.
I also talked about the importance of self-reflection, especially as nonprofit leaders. Every quarter, I take a step back to assess how Iâm doing in all aspects of my lifeâfrom my relationships to my work to my personal growth. We need to prioritize not only the tasks but our well-being and long-term vision. This kind of introspection and planning is essential to keep our organizations strong and sustainable.
If we want to see change in our organizations, it starts with us. We need to embrace new ways of thinking, build new habits, and invest in ourselves as leaders. Itâs about growing our skill sets, enhancing our capacity to lead, and creating a culture where our teams feel supported, empowered, and inspired. Together, we can grow our impact and make a difference, but it requires action, courage, and a commitment to growth. So, letâs continue to challenge ourselves and each other to be the best leaders we can be.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie...
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Welcome to another episode of Nonprofit CourageLab! Today, I'm sharing a sneak peek into a recent Pitch-A-thon where we dive into the art of nonprofit pitching â not in a Shark Tank kind of way, but more like engaging in a powerful and meaningful conversation. Together, weâll explore strategies to connect authentically with donors, practice impactful pitches, and avoid common missteps. This episode is perfect if youâre looking to make a difference through your ask, not just for your organization but in a way that resonates deeply with donors.
In this episode, we work with Sheena, a nonprofit leader from "To Write Love on Her Arms," as she crafts a personalized pitch. She highlights the importance of youth mental health, shares their impact on high school students across the country, and tailors her message to resonate with the specific values and passions of her donor.
Key Takeaways:
- Building Relationships, Not Pitches: A pitch should feel like a natural extension of a relationship. Weâre not here to talk "at" people but to create a back-and-forth that lets the donor feel heard, valued, and understood.
- Focus on the Donor, Not Just the Cause: Too often, pitches spotlight only the organizationâs needs. Remember: the donor is a partner. Tailor your ask to what drives them and make it clear why theyâre essential to the mission.
- Tell Stories, Donât Share Stats: Highlight how your work impacts individuals. Personal stories can be more powerful than numbers alone. For example, share how an 11-year-old struggling with depression found hope and healing through your program.
- Practice Makes Perfect (and Shorter!): Awareness of time is key. Practice your pitch, time it, and refine it so it lands clearly within a 2-3 minute window. You'll surprise yourself by how much impact you can make in a short, well-crafted pitch.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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Hey friend! Todayâs episode is a little different. Iâm coming to you unfiltered, and honestly, I'm fed up. In my work with nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and development directors across the country, Iâm seeing some serious gaps that we need to address.
Weâve been talking a lot about mental health and wellness in the nonprofit sector, which is importantâbut whatâs missing from the conversation is a real accountability check. We need to give ourselves grace, yes, but we also need discipline. Something has to change, and it starts with us getting real about what isnât working.
In this episode, I dive deep into the challenges weâre all facing in the fundraising world. I see people in leadership roles with no real training or support, fundraising teams stretched too thin, and an overall lack of reflection on whatâs actually working. The reality is, weâre repeating the same mistakes over and over again and expecting different results. That needs to stop.
I talk about:
- The alarming turnover in fundraising roles and why the average tenure is only 18 months.
- The rise of fractional fundraisers and why thatâs a positive shift.
- Why so many people in leadership feel burnt out and stuckâand how to move past that.
- The importance of focusing on prospects who *actually* care, instead of wasting time chasing people who arenât interested.
- The hard truth about accountability and why leaders need to step up and have direct, honest conversations.
This episode is all about getting real. Itâs time to reflect, stop making excuses, and take control of what we can. If you're ready to be part of a revolution of courage and accountability in the nonprofit sector, this oneâs for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Grace vs. Discipline: We need to balance grace with discipline. Sometimes, weâre too lenient with ourselves, and itâs holding us back from progress.
- Stop Chasing Dead Ends: If a prospect isnât interested after 18 months, let them go. Focus your energy on those who are engaged and willing to give.
- Leadership Accountability: Leaders need to have the courage to address the elephant in the room and hold people accountable, whether itâs your CEO, board members, or yourself.
- Reflect and Adjust: Are you taking time to reflect on whatâs working? If youâre stuck in âgo-go-goâ mode, itâs time to pause and reassess your strategies.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I guide you through the essentials of major gift fundraising, focusing on strategic planning, effective donor engagement, and optimal time management.
I'm going to go over how to schedule and prioritize tasks, reach out to loyal donors, and request multi-year pledges and one-time gifts and the importance of aligning donation requests with your organization's strategic plan and the frequent solicitation of referrals.
Learn best practices for donor portfolio reviews, setting weekly goals, and utilizing various communication platforms. I'll show you how to proactively build relationships, leverage social media, and personally connect with potential donors. To enhance your fundraising impact, there is a big need for regular planning, clear donor criteria, and consistent tracking of progress.
Additionally, I provide tips on decluttering your calendar, balancing new donor acquisition with nurturing existing relationships, and embracing creativity in your fundraising efforts. Don't forget to check out my free donor scripts cheat sheet available on my website for further support.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I share a case study about helping a New York City-based animal welfare organization secure an unrestricted $6 million gift, which is twice their annual budget of $3 million.
The discussion covers mistakes to avoid, strategies to build trust and credibility with donors, and the importance of a strategic plan with a big vision for impact. Emphasizing the high capacity and trust with donors, I explore the significance of having direct conversations when asking for large donations, such as $6 million, and the power of a simple proposal.
With personal anecdotes, I stress that generosity is a gift to the giver and that building strong relationships is key to acquiring major funds for impactful projects. This session aims to inspire and provide practical insights for nonprofit stakeholders seeking to level up their fundraising efforts.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Update
01:04 Case Study: Securing a $6 Million Gift
02:23 Building Trust and Credibility with Donors
04:51 Strategic Planning for Big Gifts
09:52 Crafting a Simple and Effective Proposal
13:41 The Importance of Direct Asks
30:07 Mindset and Personal Development
37:22 Conclusion and Encouragement
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I dive into a frequently asked question: how to determine the right amount to ask a donor for? I break down my thought process and introduce my special Ask Amount ebook, which is available for free.
I explore three key factors: the organization, the donor, and you, the fundraiser. I dive into evaluating an organization's size, effectiveness, vision, and fundraising goals. For donors, factors include their identity, mission alignment, financial capacity, and inclination to give.
Lastly, I discuss the role of the fundraiser, emphasizing the importance of courage and technical skills. I also include tips on engaging with donors and making successful asks. If you leave a five-star Apple Podcast review and send me a screenshot on LinkedIn, I'll share my ebook with you. Thank you for listening and continue to raise millions for impactful work.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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In this episode, I discuss how to determine if Courage Lab, my six-week group coaching accelerator, is the right fit for you. Courage Lab is designed for nonprofit professionals, such as executive and development directors, who are looking to raise unrestricted revenue from individual major gifts of $10k or more.
I provide an overview of what the program entails, including live training, recorded modules with six months of access, and personalized feedback. Additionally, I share success stories from past participants to illustrate the potential impact of the program. If you are ready to take action, prioritize major gifts fundraising, and grow bolder in your approach, visit julieordonez.com/couragelab to learn more and sign up.
Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals.
If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if itâs right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million
Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist
Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions
A Podcast Launch Bestie production
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