Telling your organization's story across cultures is harder than it looks. Get it wrong and you risk donors who feel used instead of connected. Get it right and you build the kind of trust that turns first-time gifts into lifelong partnerships.

In this episode, Morgan sits down with Julie Knopp, Director of Communications at San Lucas Mission, and Shelby Schmidt, Fractional Fundraiser here at FBB, to dig into what ethical, cross-cultural storytelling actually looks like in practice. Not the theory. The real, on-the-ground version.

They talk about the line between compelling impact stories and poverty tropes, how to bridge the gap between local leadership and a US donor base, and what it takes to build international relationships that hold up over time. Julie brings the perspective of someone living this work day to day at San Lucas Mission. Shelby brings what she's seen coaching organizations through the same questions again and again.

If your organization tells stories about communities your donors will probably never visit, this one's for you.

Learn more about San Lucas Mission here: https://sanlucasmission.org

And contact Shelby here: www.fundraisingbeyondborders.com

Grant writing used to be a numbers game. Apply to everyone, hope something sticks. That approach doesn't work anymore, and the organizations still relying on it are the ones falling behind.

In this episode, Morgan sits down with Brittany, Grant Writing and Fundraising Coach here at FBB, to talk about what's actually changed in the funding landscape and what nonprofits need to do differently to keep up. Based in South Africa and deep in grant writing work every day, Brittany makes the case for relationship-based funding over the old spray-and-pray model, and explains why strategic positioning and genuine alignment with a funder's mission matter more now than ever.

They also get into the practical side: how to use LinkedIn and in-person events to build real funder relationships, where AI actually helps in grant writing and research (and where it doesn't), and what Brittany sees coming next for grant funding and collaboration in the sector.

If you're just starting your grant writing journey, or you've been at this a while and want to know what's shifting, this episode has something for you.

Contact Brittany here: www.fundraisingbeyondborders.com

In this episode of Fundraising Beyond Borders, we're joined by our own Shawn Buck, fundraising coach and consultant. Originally from the United States and now based in Cape Town, Shawn brings years of international fundraising experience and a passion for helping nonprofits build meaningful relationships with their supporters.

Together, we explore why community is one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) fundraising strategies—especially for organizations working across borders.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why community should be at the heart of your fundraising strategy
• How to create genuine connections with supporters, wherever they are in the world
• Practical ways to build engagement using both online and offline communities
• The role of trust, belonging, and shared purpose in long-term donor relationships
• Simple actions your nonprofit can start taking today

Whether you're trying to grow a loyal donor base, strengthen supporter relationships, or create a movement around your mission, this conversation is full of practical ideas you can put into action.

Get in touch with Shawn via: www.fundraisingbeyondborders.com

In this episode, we sit down with Janine Ayoub, co-founder of YAMM Services, to explore ethical storytelling, international fundraising, and how nonprofits can strengthen impact through collaboration and innovation.

With 15+ years across evaluation, programme leadership and fundraising, Janine shares how organisations can align fieldwork, budgets and storytelling to honour community dignity while creating stronger donor relationships. We also dive into her latest venture, Anqido, and the future of connected nonprofit operations.

Are you funding ready? Find out now: https://funding-readiness.com

Contact Janine: [email protected]

In this episode, Tess, a seasoned planned giving fundraiser with over 10 years of experience, shares insights on how nonprofits can tap into the potential of asset-based and estate giving.

She discusses practical strategies for starting planned giving programs, engaging donors, and building relationships to unlock transformational funding.

Contact:

Tess' free Planned Giving website guide with examples and copy you can cut-and-paste: https://fullpotentialfundraising.com/freeguide

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tess-conrad-cfre/

Weekly Planned Giving articles and tips: https://www.fullpotentialfundraising.com/newsletter

Your people are one of the most valuable investments your nonprofit can make.

In this episode, Heather Burright shares practical insights on how nonprofits can develop stronger teams, build a culture of learning, and invest in talent development without losing sight of their mission.

From integrating professional growth into organizational strategy to measuring the impact of training and overcoming common barriers, Heather explores what it really takes to help nonprofit staff thrive.

Whether you're leading a small team or managing a growing organization, this conversation is packed with actionable ideas to help you strengthen your people, increase capacity, and create long-term impact.

Tune in to discover why investing in your team is one of the smartest ways to invest in your mission.

Contact Heather: [email protected]

and listen to her podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-good-l-d-solutions-and/id1621971310

In this episode, Emma discusses the increasing demand for engaging video content, particularly for charities.

She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in storytelling, especially in a landscape filled with AI-generated content.

Charities have unique stories and real impacts that can help them stand out and connect with their audiences on social media. A must listen!

Contact Emma: https://thesaltways.com/our-story/

Freebie: AI Generated Guidelines: https://mailchi.mp/thesaltways/aiguidelines

In this insightful interview, Borana Resulaj shares her extensive experience in nonprofit finance, emphasizing the importance of integrating fundraising, finance, and program strategies.

She discusses practical systems, transparency, and collaboration techniques to strengthen financial resilience and donor trust in international nonprofits.

Website: https://ngofinancehub.com

In this episode of the Fundraising Beyond Borders podcast, Morgan interviews Sigrid Penner, founder of Focused Further Consultancy. Sigrid shares her extensive experience in data and analytics, emphasizing the importance of data-informed fundraising for nonprofits.

She discusses how organizations can leverage their donor data to build stronger relationships, improve donor retention, and create actionable insights.

The conversation also touches on the unique challenges of international fundraising and the need for tailored strategies based on cultural differences. Sigrid provides practical advice for nonprofits looking to enhance their fundraising efforts through data analysis and strategic planning.

Contact Sigrid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sigrid-penner/

In this episode of the Fundraising Beyond Borders podcast, Morgan Gross interviews Danielle Gines, a curriculum consultant specializing in international education nonprofits. Danielle shares her journey into curriculum development, emphasizing the importance of creating engaging and culturally relevant learning experiences.

The conversation covers common mistakes in curriculum design, the significance of metrics for program evaluation, and the necessity of including local voices in the development process. Danielle also discusses the concept of 'Train the Trainer' to ensure skill transfer and the importance of observational learning in understanding community needs.

Contact: [email protected]

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