This episode originally aired on the We Are For Good Podcast in their Working Sessions series. I’m sharing it here on my own channel so you can dive into practical strategies for closing major gifts this season.

It’s giving season, and if you want to close major gifts in the next few weeks, this episode is for you. I walk you through exactly who to ask, how to ask, and how to approach these conversations with courage and confidence. No fluff—just actionable steps to help you move forward with clarity and impact.

Here’s what we cover:

• Identifying your warm prospects: I guide you through how to focus on donors who are already primed to give—those who’ve expressed support recently or are “all in” with your mission. Stop overthinking and start taking action.
• Recognizing signals from your community: From emails, social media engagement, to personal encounters—learn how to spot the people who are most likely to respond.
• Managing mindset and fear: I talk about why discomfort is normal when asking for major gifts and how courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s acting despite it.
• How to ask for more confidently: I break down the importance of being specific in your ask, giving donors clarity, and removing obstacles that slow their decision-making.
• Handling mistakes with humility: I share how showing up authentically, even if imperfectly, builds trust and strengthens relationships.
• Tools and resources: I offer my free Opportunity Brainstorm PDF to help you map your warm prospects and take immediate action.

Asking for major gifts doesn’t have to feel paralyzing. By focusing on the right people, preparing internally, and showing up courageously, you can increase your impact and build stronger relationships with your supporters. Refusing to let fear hold you back ensures your mission gets the resources it deserves—and it’s easier than you think to take those first steps.

Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. 

If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2