Afleveringen

  • Exploring how smart digital strategy turns online interactions into lasting donor relationships.

    SHOW NOTES:

    December 4th, 2025 – Episode # 209

    Clicks, Conversions & Connection: Building Donor Loyalty in a Digital World

    On this episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego sits down with Jen Newmeyer, CFRE (a.k.a. Charity Jen), Senior Director of Digital Fundraising Strategy at PBS, for a deep dive into what makes digital fundraising work, and what holds many nonprofits back. Jen unpacks how to structure a digital strategy that captures attention, inspires giving, and keeps donors coming back. From mapping out email journeys to fine-tuning donation forms, she reveals the behind-the-scenes tactics that transform casual clicks into meaningful conversions.

    Together, Dawn and Jen explore the evolving role of data, creativity, and clarity in today’s online giving environment. It’s a masterclass in how to think like a digital strategist, balancing design, messaging, and technology to make every interaction count.

    Guest Reflection:

    “Digital fundraising isn’t just about technology. It’s about creating clarity, connection, and confidence in every click.“ — Jen Newmeyer

    Episode Highlights:

    How to structure a winning digital fundraising strategy. Why professional email campaigns can make or break engagement. The value of testing donation forms to boost conversion rates. How a clear value proposition drives donor trust and action. Why digital adaptability is the key to long-term success.

    Connect with our Guests:

    Jen Newmeyer, CFRE

    Episodes Resources:

    Charity Jen The Insider’s Guide to Online Fundraising: Finding Success When Surrounded by Skeptics Digital Fundraising Transformation: The Insider’s Guide to Revolutionize Your Strategy and Raise More

    Episode Credits and Extras:

    YouTube FREE ResourcesRaise Event Fundraising Conference Grant Program

    Thank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

  • Inspiring community spirit and wellness through philanthropy, partnership, and purpose.

    SHOW NOTES:

    November 20, 2025 - Episode # 208

    Community in Bloom: Nurturing Wellness, Inspiring Giving, Building Stronger Communities

    On this heartwarming episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego sits down with Jonathan Maple, Executive Director of the Margaret Mary Health Foundation, to explore how a small-town hospital is making a big impact. From launching local health initiatives to preparing for the grand opening of a new hospital in 2026, Jonathan shares how his team’s passion for wellness, community, and compassion fuels transformational change. 

    Listeners will be inspired by how the foundation turns fundraising into storytelling, where every gala, every volunteer, and every donation becomes part of a larger mission to nurture health and hope in Batesville, Indiana. Jonathan’s perspective on creating a culture of connection and FOMO-driven giving reminds us that when a community rallies for wellness, miracles happen every day. 

    Guest Reflection: 

    "When you see neighbors helping neighbors, giving isn’t just about money—it’s about heart. That’s what makes our community so special." -- Jonathon Maple

    Episode Highlights: 

    How Margaret Mary Health Foundation champions community health and wellness Behind the scenes of building a brand-new hospital for Batesville Why “FOMO fundraising” inspires greater generosity and engagement The power of community and volunteers in bringing the annual gala to life The foundation’s vision for a healthier, more connected future 

    Connect with our Guests: 

    Jonathon Maple 

    Episodes Resources: 

    Margaret Mary Health Foundation Meet the Team Support 

    Episode Credits and Extras:

    YouTube FREE ResourcesRaise Event Fundraising Conference Grant Program

    Thank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

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  • Transforming donor-advised funds into the next big wave of accessible, tech-powered philanthropy. 

    SHOW NOTES:

    November 13, 2025 - Episode # 207

    Disrupting Donations: How Chariot is Powering the DAF Revolution 

    On this episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Steve Lausch sits down with Mitch Stein, Head of Strategy at Chariot, to unpack the rise of donor-advised funds (DAFs) and how they’re reshaping the future of charitable giving. From simplifying complex donations with DAFpay to empowering nonprofits with instant donor data, Chariot is redefining the donor experience and making generosity more seamless than ever. 

    Mitch and Steve explore how DAFs are becoming democratized, no longer reserved for the wealthy few, but open to everyday givers who want impact at their fingertips. The conversation dives into how technology, transparency, and timing are changing the fundraising landscape, proving that innovation and philanthropy can go hand in hand. 

    Guest Reflection: 

    "When we make giving easier, faster, and more personal, everyone wins - donors, nonprofits, and the causes they care about most." -- Mitch Stein

    Episode Highlights: 

    How Chariot’s DAFpay bridges the gap between modern donors and nonprofits. Why DAFs are growing faster than any other charitable giving vehicle. The average DAF gift and what it means for fundraising strategy. What’s next for Chariot and the future of DAF-driven giving. 

    Connect with our Guests: 

    Mitch Stein 

    Episodes Resources: 

    Chariot DAF Fundraising Report Complete Guide to Donor-Advised Funds DAFpay by Chariot Case Studies 

    Episode Credits and Extras:

    YouTube FREE ResourcesRaise Event Fundraising Conference Grant Program

    Thank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

  • Crafting donor experiences that feel like art, because emotional intelligence is the new campaign currency.

    SHOW NOTES:

    November 6, 2025 – Episode # 206

    The Color of Giving: Painting Fundraising with Emotion & Intelligence

    Peeling back the curtain on the true art of fundraising, this episode of Raise Nation Radio invites you into a bold, brainy, and beautifully human conversation with Bill Crouch, Founder & CEO of BrightDot. Host Dawn Lego unpacks how the most effective fundraisers today are leading with emotional intelligence, leveraging donor psychology, and tapping into creativity to deeply connect with high-wealth individuals.

    This isn’t your typical fundraising talk. Bill challenges fundraisers not only to know their donors but also to feel with them, think creatively, and train with intention. From the power of visual storytelling to the resilience needed after rejection, this episode is both a masterclass and a motivational nudge for anyone seeking to raise more by connecting deeper.

    Guest Reflection:

    “You don’t ask people to give because of what you need; you ask because of what they believe in. Every gift is a reflection of how deeply you’ve made them feel that they matter.“ — Bill Crouch

    Episode Highlights:

    Exploring the difference between data and wisdom in fundraising. Why emotional intelligence is the secret sauce in donor engagement. The psychology behind why high-wealth donors give, and why they don’t. How visual communication outperforms text when influencing major gifts. Strategies to recover emotionally after a ‘no’ and stay mission-driven. The importance of creative coaching and personalized training for nonprofit success.

    Connect with our Guests:

    Bill Crouch

    Episodes Resources:

    BrightDot Nonprofit Mentorship Program Aspiring President’s Club Blog

    Episode Credits and Extras:

    YouTube FREE ResourcesRaise Event Fundraising Conference Grant Program

    Thank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

  • Empowering the next generation of Latino leaders to create lasting change.

    SHOW NOTES:

    October 30, 2025 – Episode # 205

    The Power of Us: Strengthening Latino Leadership, Amplifying Community Impact

    In this episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego sits down with Elizabeth Gutierrez, Deputy Director of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation, for an inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and Latino pride. From empowering the next generation through scholarships to uniting communities at their annual fundraising gala, Elizabeth shares how the foundation turns purpose into progress. Together, they explore the vibrant intersection of culture, community, and philanthropy that fuels the foundation’s mission.

    Guest Reflection:

    “When you invest in a Latino student, you’re not just changing one life — you’re uplifting an entire community.“ — Elizabeth Gutierrez

    Episode Highlights:

    The Foundation’s powerful mission to foster Latino leadership and education. How a scholarship program transforms futures and inspires community pride. Behind the scenes of their signature fundraising gala and its lasting impact. Debunking myths: Philanthropy is alive and thriving in the Latino community. The growing role of technology in connecting and empowering donors.

    OneCause Customer Profile:

    Customer Success Manager: Ahilen BernalFundraising Software: OneCause Fundraising Platform Signature Event(s): 4th Annual Gala: Our Wings, Our Legacy

    Connect with our Guests:

    Elizabeth Gutierrez

    Episodes Resources:

    Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation Support Rapid Response Program

    Episode Credits and Extras:

    YouTube FREE ResourcesRaise Event Fundraising Conference Grant Program

    Thank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

  • Inspiring hope and health through powerful stories of community and compassion.

    SHOW NOTES:

    October 23, 2025 – Episode # 204

    Miles of Hope: Walking Together Toward Awareness and Healing

    On this heartwarming episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego sits down with Pari Forood, Executive Director of the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation, to honor the stories, strength, and spirit behind breast cancer awareness. From financial assistance to patient advocacy, Pari shares how her small but mighty team turns compassion into action – empowering survivors, supporting families, and funding education programs that create real change in the fight against breast cancer.

    Together, Dawn and Pari remind listeners that awareness doesn’t stop when October (breast cancer awareness month) ends. It’s a year-round commitment to health, community, and early detection.

    Tune in to hear how one foundation’s miles of effort have turned into miles of hope. And ladies—consider this your friendly reminder: please schedule your annual mammogram today.

    Guest Reflection:

    “Every step we take, every dollar we raise, brings us closer to a world where no one faces breast cancer alone.” — Pari Forood

    Episode Highlights:

    Turning Awareness into Action: Understand how early detection saves lives and strengthens communities. Power of Purposeful Giving: Discover how creative, community-driven fundraising translates into real-world impact. Hearts that Heal: Meet the volunteers who transform compassion into connection, one act of kindness at a time. Hope for the Next Generation: Learn how scholarships for students affected by breast cancer are rewriting stories of loss into legacies of love. $4 Million and Counting: Explore the ripple effect of Miles of Hope’s remarkable fundraising efforts, and how every dollar raised restores dignity, courage, and care.

    OneCause Customer Profile:

    Customer Success Manager: Tyler Tranberg Fundraising Software: Peer-to-Peer Signature Event(s): Miles of Hope Walk

    Connect with our Guests:

    Miles of Hope Leadership

    Episodes Resources:

    Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation GrantsGet Involved

    Episode Credits and Extras:

    YouTube FREE ResourcesRaise Event Fundraising Conference Grant Program

    Thank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    October 16, 2025 – Episode # 203

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 8

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 8th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Erin Kienzle – Giving4GoodBradley Martin – FeathrLouis Murad & Marty Murad – Murad Auctions

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You’ll Take Away:

    Creating Buzz and Bids: Use story-driven videos to grab attention, inspire giving, and elevate your gala – right from your iPhone.Pixels and Pints: Unlock digital tactics that prove real marketing ROI.Game On! Auction Strategies: Energize your auction with games and strategies that drive engagement and bigger bids.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    October 14, 2025 – Episode # 202

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 7

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 7th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Kristen Bowles – National MS SocietyChristina Jones – Battered Women Justice ProjectErik Tomalis – Avid

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You’ll Take Away:

    Campaigns That Transform: Innovative strategies for storytelling, community building, and leading multimillion-dollar initiatives.Social Media That Raises Millions: How to turn LinkedIn and Instagram activity into five- to seven-figure gifts.Fundraising That Connects: Why personal relationships and donor engagement matter more than transactions.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    October 9, 2025 - Episode # 201

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 6

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 6th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Steve Lausch - OneCauseFrances Brooks, CFRE - Indiana University FoundationKevin Spykerman - Auction Packages

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You'll Take Away: 

    Innovation, Recognition & Connection: Dive into Raise highlight, innovation in action, award-winning nonprofits, and the deep community connections that spark inspiration.Trends that Drive Results: Discover sizzling travel experiences, emerging auction trends, and techniques to elevate engagement, bidding, and event performance.Powerful Calls to Action: Explore how evaluating personal motivations, deepening mission alignment, and cultivating shared values build trust, strengthen teams, and create psychological safety.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    October 7, 2025 - Episode # 200

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 5

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 5th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Colleen Carroll - Double the DonationReggie Rivers - The Gala TeamSusan Kramer - Susan Kramer Consulting

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You'll Take Away: 

    Matching gifts significantly boost fundraising. Explore best practices for communication strategies that inspire action.Supercharge your paddle raise. Top tips and quick strategies for raising more at your next event.Your next major donor is closer than you think! Learn strategies to uncover hidden giving potential.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    October 2, 2025 – Episode # 199

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 4

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 4th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Tanya Frey – Terra Firma ConsultingNathan Chappell – VirtuousMary Elizabeth – Swaim Strategies

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You’ll Take Away:

    Inclusive fundraising is more critical than ever. Adapt and engage donors authentically to build long-term trust.AI is changing the way we live and work. Harness it responsibly while keeping people, purpose, and values at the center.Know when hybrid events are the right choice. Discover how tech and smart design can maximize results.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    September 2, 2025 – Episode # 198

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 3

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 3rd episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Daniel Morford – The Pando InitiativeStephanie Ragozzino – OneCauseKel Haney – Kel Haney Consulting

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You’ll Take Away:

    Fundraising events drive impact. Strategically planned, they build community and boost support.Modern tech helps nonprofit leaders raise more, engage supporters year-round, and deliver seamless experiences.Phone calls make mid-level donors feel valued and can spark the next gift.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    September 25, 2025 – Episode # 197

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 2

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 2nd episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Livia Christensen & Chris O’Shea – C2 AuctionsSarah Mason-Fagg – Breakthrough T1DT. Clay Buck – Next River Fundraising Strategies

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You’ll Take Away:

    Strategic thinking strengthens mission impact. Applying business expertise to nonprofit work brings focus and scalability.Events are powerful engines for impact. When managed strategically, they can build both community and critical funding.Systems and storytelling build sustainability. Nonprofits thrive when structure supports mission and stories connect with hearts.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!

    SHOW NOTES:

    September 18, 2025 – Episode # 196

    Turned Up Raise Series: Part 1

    Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.

    In the 1st episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we’re spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.

    Dr. Derreck Kayongo – Clean Production ActionSuzanne Stone – LivestrongMatt Bitzegaio – DonorDock

    Get ready for fundraising fuel that’s equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.

    Highlights You’ll Take Away:

    Creativity fuels impact. With vision and determination, even the simplest ideas can ripple into global change.Impact is amplified through adaptability. Nonprofit leaders thrive when they embrace new challenges and apply their experience in fresh ways.Innovation drives resilience. Nonprofits that embrace new approaches can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.

    Meet the Raise Amplifiers:

    Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF Media

    Resources and Upcoming:

    Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!
  • Practicing donor conversations has never been this fun… or this effective, thanks to AI and a little help from Tivi.

    SHOW NOTES:

    September 11, 2025 – Episode # 195

    Practicing to Win: Fundraising Confidence with Practivated… and an Octopus Named Tivi

    Fundraising can be challenging, stressful, and full of high-stakes conversations. But what if practice could turn anxiety into confidence? On this episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego reconnects with Mallory Erickson, founder of Practivated, to explore how her innovative AI platform helps fundraisers rehearse and refine donor conversations. Guided by Tivi the octopus, fundraisers can simulate real-life donor scenarios, receive instant feedback, and gain the confidence needed to connect more authentically.

    This conversation is a reminder that technology and human connection don’t compete. They enhance each other, and even a little octopus can make learning fun.

    Big shout-out to Mallory for her inspiring speaking session at Raise 2025 and to Practivated for sponsoring the conference. We’re thrilled to feature them in our very first Raise coverage of the season!

    Guest Reflection:

    “Tivi reminds us that it’s okay to stumble in practice, because every misstep we rehearse now is a confident connection later.“ — Mallory Erickson

    Episode Highlights:

    Sharing Mallory’s journey from burnout to empowered fundraising leadership. Practicing with intention to transform donor conversations and entire careers. Leveraging Practivated to simulate donor interactions and build confidence. Reducing fear of rejection by turning challenges into meaningful connections. Applying AI-driven practice while keeping the human touch at the center.

    Connect with our Guests:

    Mallory Erickson

    Episodes Resources:

    Practivated Blog Responsible AI What the Fundraising Power Partners Formula
  • Celebrating the magic when families, volunteers, and communities come together under one roof of hope.

    SHOW NOTES:

    September 4, 2025 – Episode # 194

    Love Has an Address: A Home of Heart at Ronald McDonald House Charities Augusta

    Raise Nation returns this season with a mission that touches the heart of every listener.

    What does love look like when a child is sick? Sometimes, it looks like a warm meal after a long day at the hospital. Sometimes, it’s a cozy room where families can rest without worry. And sometimes, it’s the kindness of strangers who choose to care.

    On this heart-inspiring episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego sits down with David Jacobsen, President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Augusta, to open up about the ways this extraordinary mission has been keeping families close for 50 years. From unforgettable family stories to the simple yet profound ways communities give back, this conversation reminds us that love doesn’t just heal, it multiplies.

    Guest Reflection:

    “Every Ronald McDonald House is proof that when a community decides to care, love becomes stronger than illness, and families find the strength to keep going.“ — David Jacobsen

    Episode Highlights:

    Jimmy Murray’s visionary leadership Dr. Audrey Evans’ (Mother of Neuroblastoma) compassionate legacy. Why “home” means more than a roof for families facing pediatric medical treatment. Stories that reveal the everyday miracles inside Ronald McDonald Houses. How volunteers turn small acts, like cooking dinner, into lifelong impact. The partnership with McDonald’s and local communities fueling the mission.

    OneCause Customer Profile:

    Customer Success Manager: Kaitlin Desautels Fundraising Software: OneCause Fundraising Platform Signature Event(s): Wine, Women, and Shoes

    Connect with our Guests:

    David Jacobsen

    Episodes Resources:

    Ronald McDonald House Charities Augusta Audrey’s Children on Peacock R.I.P. Jimmy Murray (6/5/1938 – 8/25/2025) Get Involved Family Table