Elevate Your Event

This episode flips the script. No guests. No panels. Just Jeff and Mark diving deep into the history and evolution of one of Denver’s most unique fundraising events: Derby Day at Fiddler’s Green. What started as a backyard party nearly two decades ago is now a full-blown, high-end experience with fire pits, LED screens, custom cocktails, and serious fundraising power.

Jeff shares how the event has grown, what they’ve learned (sometimes the hard way), and why creating a memorable experience is the key to fundraising success. From ditching stuffy venues to selling $5K fire pit tables and booking Nashville acts—this is a masterclass in bold moves and thoughtful planning.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to elevate your event year after year—without losing your audience
• The art of risk: investing in experience to drive revenue
• Creative sponsorship strategies and how cold calls could pay off
• Why guest experience matters more than spreadsheets
• The surprising ROI of outdoor furniture and fire pits

Links & Mentions:

• Event info: DerbyDenver.com

Whether you’re planning your first gala or your 20th, this episode is packed with practical ideas, honest insights, and a few laughs along the way.

In this episode, our guest Graeme Watt introduces the Strategic Inevitability Framework—a powerful tool designed to help nonprofits bring clarity, focus, and follow-through to their strategic plans. Graeme shares why it’s crucial to set clear goals, build accountability, and focus on fewer, high-impact actions to drive meaningful progress.

He also dives into the importance of celebrating wins, co-creating plans with your team, and visualizing success with exercises like the “Champagne Moment.” From adapting during execution to breaking free from outdated practices, Graeme offers practical insights and tools to help organizations not just plan, but thrive.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

• Clarify goals with a focused, strategic framework.

• Prioritize fewer, high-impact activities for better results.

• Build accountability through regular check-ins and clear execution plans.

• Use a 12-month roadmap to guide action and maintain momentum.

• Embrace essentialism and flexibility to stay on track.

• Co-create plans to boost team commitment and ownership.

• Celebrate wins to sustain energy and progress.

• Align event planning with strategic goals.

• Strong execution often matters more than novel ideas.

🔗 Links & Resources:

• Instagram: @anthemcreative
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthemcreative/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wattgraeme/
  
  

If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with a fellow fundraiser! 🚀

💡 Connect with Handbid:

📍 Website

📍 Instagram

📍 LinkedIn

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In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we sit down with Scott Dishong, CEO of Make-A-Wish Colorado, to explore how his team brings hope and joy to children with critical illnesses. From unique wishes (like a robotic dragon!) to the massive impact of student-led fundraising, Scott shares insights into what makes Make-A-Wish so special.

We also dive into fundraising strategies, including how Make-A-Wish Colorado transformed their traditional gala into Whiskey, Wine & Wishes—a high-energy, concert-style event that engages new donors while keeping longtime supporters excited. Plus, Scott shares leadership lessons and the key to building strong teams and relationships in the nonprofit world.

🎧 Tune in to learn:

✔️ How Make-A-Wish Colorado grants 380+ wishes per year

✔️ The impact of student-led fundraising & Wish Week

✔️ Why events are still a powerful donor engagement tool

✔️ How to turn a gala into an unforgettable experience

✔️ Scott’s top advice for nonprofit leaders

🔗 Links & Resources:

• Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdishong/ 
• Learn more about Make-A-Wish Colorado: www.colorado.wish.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WishColorado/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wishcolorado/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wishcolorado/

If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review and share it with a fellow fundraiser! 🚀

💡 Connect with Handbid:

📍 Website

📍 Instagram

📍 LinkedIn

Listen, rate, and subscribe!

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Episode Summary:

Your event was a hit—but how do you keep donors engaged after the night is over? In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we dive into the must-know strategies for donor retention.

From capturing donor data at check-in to creating meaningful touchpoints throughout the year, we’re breaking down practical ways to keep supporters connected. Plus, we discuss why making small improvements to your event each year keeps donors excited (without alienating your long-time supporters).

Key Takeaways:

• Get Their Info – Capturing donor data at check-in is essential for future engagement and follow-ups.
• Keep in Touch – Donors should hear from you more than once a year—updates and appreciation go a long way.
• Mix It Up – Small event tweaks keep things fresh and prevent donor fatigue.
• Use Surveys Wisely – Gather feedback during the event to make impactful changes.
• Don’t Be Afraid of Change – Evolving your event strategy helps attract and retain the next generation of donors.

🎧 Tune in now for expert insights on keeping your donors engaged long after your event ends!

💡 Connect with Handbid:

📍 Website

📍 Instagram

📍 LinkedIn

Listen, rate, and subscribe!

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Episode Summary:

Welcome back to the Elevate Your Event podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into the power of text messaging for fundraising with special guest James Martin from RallyCorp. If you’ve ever struggled with low email open rates or declining donor engagement, you’ll want to hear how SMS can transform the way you connect with supporters.

James shares his journey from building a content management company to founding RallyCorp, a platform dedicated to human-centered texting for nonprofits. He explains why text messaging outperforms email, how to navigate compliance challenges, and why a 15% click rate should be your new benchmark for engagement.

James also shares some great insights on where text messaging is headed, including new technologies like RCS (Rich Communication Services), personalized tracking links, and two-way engagement strategies.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why Text Messaging is a Game-Changer – With 90% read rates, it’s one of the most effective communication tools available.
• The 15% Click Rate Guarantee – RallyCorp backs its results by guaranteeing engagement.
• Shortcodes vs. 10-Digit Numbers – Understanding the differences and when each is the right fit for your organization.
• Text-to-Give: Then vs. Now – How modern SMS fundraising works compared to the old carrier billing model.
• Real-Time Fundraising Impact – How nonprofits are using video messaging and SMS to bring donors into the story at the moment it’s happening.
• Compliance & Deliverability – Why many CRMs fail at SMS and how to ensure your messages actually get delivered.
• Data, Analytics, & AI – How advanced tracking can help optimize your messaging and fundraising strategy.

Key Takeaway:

• If you’re still relying only on email or direct mail, it’s time to rethink your donor engagement strategy. Text messaging is here to stay, and when used correctly, it can dramatically increase event attendance, donor participation, and overall fundraising success.

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about RallyCorp: rallycorp.com
• Get in touch with James directly: Text “JAMES” to 24365
• Looking to integrate SMS with Handbid? Stay tuned—more details coming soon.

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In this episode of Elevate Your Event, we welcome Tracy Judge and Nikki Gonzales from Soundings to explore the evolving world of event staffing and management. They discuss how skilled freelance talent can enhance fundraising events, the importance of aligning the right people with the right roles, and how personality impacts guest experiences. The conversation also highlights the use of CliftonStrengths for strategic staffing and the hidden costs of under-qualified personnel.

Nikki and Tracy also dive into the changing expectations of Gen Z attendees, the growing role of technology in events, and the need for inclusivity and adaptability. With insights on forming strong partnerships and rethinking talent strategies, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for event professionals looking to stay ahead of industry trends.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Freelance talent is essential for modern event success.
• Skill matching & experience reduce risks and enhance guest experiences.
• CliftonStrengths helps align talent with the right roles.
• Strategic staffing boosts sponsorships, donations, and overall event success.
• Inclusivity & adaptability are key to engaging Gen Z and all attendees.
• Technology should serve all generations for a seamless experience.
• Hidden costs of poor staffing can be significant.
• Strong partnerships & community building elevate event outcomes.
• Innovative talent strategies drive long-term success.
• Emotional biases can impact staffing decisions—focus on the right fit.

Resources and Links:

• https://soundingsconnect.com/ 
• Connect with Tracy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyjudge/ 
• Connect with Nikki: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkigonzales/
• CliftonStrengths Assessment

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Episode Summary:

Step into the future of events with Jeff, Mark, and Elise as they break down the latest innovations from AXIS Drive and Stripe Tour. From personalized LED screens that greet guests by name to face-recognition check-ins and walkout payment systems, we’re exploring how next-gen technology is transforming guest experiences. How can fundraising events borrow from major sports venues and concert arenas? And what’s up with “dead hand” security? Tune in for a fun, slightly creepy, but totally fascinating look at the tech shaping events of tomorrow.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How AI-driven LED screens can personalize the guest experience
• Facial recognition check-ins—creepy or cool?
• Amazon’s “walkout” tech and the future of seamless payments
• How the Intuit Arena is redefining the fan experience (and what nonprofits can learn from it)
• The latest innovations from Stripe that make payments easier (and why your donors will love them)
• Why rethinking event registration and guest engagement is a game-changer

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Episode Summary:

Ready to turn those nerve-wracking speeches into mic-dropping moments? In this episode, public speaking coach and storytelling expert Johanna Walker shares all her best tips on public speaking and storytelling to help you rock the stage at your next event. From crafting emotional, audience-grabbing stories to channeling stage fright into superstar energy, Johanna’s advice will have you captivating crowds and leaving a lasting impression.

Whether you’re running a fundraiser or leading a big presentation, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to help you connect, inspire, and (most importantly) keep your audience awake.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Stories that stick: Ditch the boring stats and use real, human stories to make your message unforgettable.
• Work the room: Learn how to read your audience and tailor your talk to hit them right in the feels.
• Make nerves your BFF: Turn that shaky voice and sweaty palms into your secret superpower.
• Practice with purpose: Why “winging it” is overrated and how intentional prep makes all the difference.
• Less is more: Keep it short, sweet, and impactful so your audience remembers the good stuff.

Pro Tips from Johanna:

• Authenticity is everything: Be real, be relatable, and make your story clear. Johanna’s ARC framework (Authenticity, Relatability, Clarity) is your new best friend.
• Nail your storytelling structure: Start strong, take your audience on a journey, and end with a bang.
• Own the stage: Plant your feet, channel your energy, and let your confidence shine.

Why Listen?

Because nobody wants to sit through another boring speech. This episode is your crash course in how to grab your audience’s attention, keep them engaged, and inspire them to take action.

Connect with Johanna Walker:

https://johannawalker.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johannawalkerspeaking/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johannawalkerspeaking/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohannaWalkerSpeaking/ 

Episode Summary:

As we bid farewell to a fantastic year, join us for this special New Year’s episode where we reflect on 2024 and set sights on elevating events in 2025. From lessons learned at memorable fundraisers to setting impactful resolutions, this episode is packed with actionable insights for nonprofit leaders and event planners!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

 1. Event Highlights of the Year

 • Inspiring stories from standout fundraisers like a Young Life event featuring supercars and helicopter rides, heartfelt moments at One Goat honoring first responders, and the perks of hiring professional event planners.

 2. New Year’s Resolutions for Fundraising Events

 • Start: Embrace technology to boost engagement and maximize mobile bidding software potential.

 • Stop: Overloading your event program with too much content or relying solely on annual fundraising events to connect with donors.

 • Keep: Building relationships, adapting, and investing in innovation to stay ahead in an ever-changing landscape.

 3. Tech and Engagement Tips

 • Why the right mobile bidding software is a profit center—not just a cost—and how it drives better results for your events.

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It’s time for some festive fun! In this special holiday episode of Elevate Your Event, the Handbid team trades fundraising tips for a rollicking round of holiday trivia. From classic Christmas movie questions to New Year’s Eve traditions (did you know about the twelve lucky grapes?), this episode is packed with laughter, friendly competition, and a surprising amount of biblical deep dives.

Who reigns supreme in trivia? Will Jeff find a new team for next year? And what exactly do the carolers demand in “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”? Tune in to find out and test your own holiday knowledge along the way!

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

 • 🎥 Holiday Movie Trivia: Who remembers where Buddy the Elf works or the angel’s choir name in How the Grinch Stole Christmas? (Hint: It’s not “The Who’s!”)

 • 🎵 Christmas Songs: Which tune has been streamed the most on Spotify? And what’s the snowman’s name in Winter Wonderland?

 • 🎄 New Year’s Traditions: From the grapes of luck in Spain to the staggering number of crystals on the Times Square Ball, these questions will have you saying, “Wait, what?”

 • 📖 Bible Trivia: The team tackles tough questions about prophecies, the Magi, and ancient genealogy—resulting in some wildly hilarious guesses.

 • 😂 Behind-the-Scenes Banter: From Jeff’s tough-love hosting style to Grinch costumes and grappling with ancient Roman trivia, the team keeps the holiday spirit alive.

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