In this riveting episode, Nathan and Scott dive deep into the provocative topic of autonomous fundraising and its potential to reshape the nonprofit sector. They explore the controversial idea of replacing human fundraisers with AI-driven bots, highlighting the pros and cons with compelling arguments and real-world examples! 

The conversation starts with a discussion about the persuasive power of AI, referencing studies showing AI's superior ability to influence and engage compared to humans. Nathan and Scott then debate the implications of this for fundraising, where bots could outpace humans in efficiency and reach. They touch on the economic advantages, such as reduced costs and the ability to manage larger donor pools, while acknowledging the risks of donor manipulation and the erosion of trust. 

The episode also tackles the crucial question: should we prioritize revenue over relationships? Nathan and Scott further argue that although AI can mimic empathy and build rapport, it lacks genuine human connection for long-term donor retention and trust. They discuss the dangers of AI going awry, from delivering harmful advice to damaging the fabric of human-centered philanthropy. 

Drawing from their extensive experience and insights, Nathan and Scott emphasize the importance of maintaining a human-centric approach to fundraising. They explore how the misuse of AI could contribute to the ongoing generosity crisis and the loneliness epidemic, underscoring the need for thoughtful integration of technology in the sector. 

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

[02:15] The Rise of Autonomous Fundraising: Pros, Cons, and Future Implications 

[04:28] The Ethics and Efficiency of Autonomous Fundraising 

[12:33] AI in Fundraising: Ethical Considerations, Human-Centric Approaches, and the Future of Philanthropy 

[16:21] Should AI Replace Human Fundraisers? 

[20:03] The Ethical and Practical Dilemmas of Autonomous Fundraising 

[25:51] Revenue Over Relationships: The Risks of Replacing Human Fundraisers with AI 

[29:56] Innovation vs. Human Connection – A Debate on the Future of Giving 

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai

Mentioned in the episode: 

The Coming Wave: Technology, Power, and the Twenty-first Century's Greatest Dilemma: amazon.com/Coming-Wave-Technology-Twenty-first-Centurys 

Some people struggle with things that you may find difficult to believe. Furniture poverty is one of the hidden struggles people face in the USA and Canada. There are a considerable number of people who can barely afford furniture because it's the third most expensive thing people have to spend their money on. There are a lot of organizations that address this invisible struggle among people, and Furniture Bank is one of them.

Furniture Bank is a charitable organization founded in 1998 whose mission is to end furniture poverty. As a registered charity and a social enterprise, Furniture Bank redistributes gently used furniture and housewares from community donors to families and individuals who are facing furniture poverty. Collaborating with over 150 community agencies, Furniture Bank helps economically vulnerable people such as women and children leaving shelters, the formerly homeless, Indigenous peoples, those dealing with mental health issues, newcomers, refugees, and many others. They help 4000 families every year to receive the goods they need to build the homes they need.

Dan Kershaw is the executive director at Furniture Bank. He first started working with startups, where he learned to get used to constantly changing. He joined the nonprofit sector, where, according to him, he started a career with meaning. Dan joined us today to talk about how generative AI can help improve the work of charitable organizations.

Starting the conversation, Dan explains what a furniture bank is and how an organization like that helps people who struggle with a lack of furniture, along with the social, physical, and mental damages that can happen because of this hidden difficulty. Then Dan explains that AI, as of now, cannot do all the work that is related to furniture but can create a lot of opportunities that they've never had before in this sector. He then talks about how AI can be taught to listen to different stories behind donated furniture and help them navigate the process because sometimes furniture holds sentimental value for people.

AI isn't here to give you the perfect solution immediately. It's here to help you achieve a great outcome. In this phase of the conversation, Dan shares his thoughts on ethics and policies related to generative AI in different organizations. Furthermore, Dan explains how hard it is to find donors if a charity organization wants to invent an AI internally. He also recommends people use free generative AI models to ask what they know about the issues they are trying to solve as an organization.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

[01.58] Dan's journey to Furniture Bank.

[06.36] Social, physical, and mental damages caused by the lack of furnishings.

[08.16] Dan explains how the Furniture Bank Operates.

[12.50] Furniture Bank's social enterprise model.

[14.00] Early stages of digital development at the Furniture Bank.

[18.29] How can AI be trained to listen to different sentimental moments related to furniture and help people with their donations?

[25.47] Generative AI, ethics, and company policies.

[31.04] Dan talks about the Furniture Bank's annual campaign in 2022.

[36.50] Thought experiment with AI.

Resources:

Connect with Dan

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/dankershaw/

Website - furniturebank.org/

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai

Meet Woodrow Rosenbaum, the visionary Chief Data Officer behind GivingTuesday's global impact. With a robust background in market dynamics and audience transformation, Woodrow is in charge of understanding and promoting generosity worldwide. At the helm of the GivingTuesday Data Commons, he spearheads collaborative efforts across over 300 organizations and data teams in 50 countries. His pioneering research on individual giving behaviors informs strategic decisions and drives innovation in nonprofit data infrastructure.

Beyond his role at GivingTuesday, Woodrow plays a pivotal role in shaping global philanthropy through his leadership on the Generosity Commission Research Task Force and as former Co-Chair of Global Impact Canada’s Board of Directors. His insights into technology and public policy, as a previous Fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center, underscore his commitment to leveraging data for social good.

Starting today's conversation, Woodrow shares his journey from commercial marketing to leading data-driven initiatives at GivingTuesday, highlighting the evolution and impact of the Data Commons. He explains how GivingTuesday has revolutionized donor acquisition and retention and how collective giving fosters a sense of community and higher engagement. Moreover, Woodrow discusses the critical role of generosity in a thriving civil society, emphasizing the importance of authentic engagement in building trust within the nonprofit sector.

Delving deeper, Woodrow explores the AI Readiness Survey insights, revealing the current state of AI adoption among nonprofits and the challenges they face. He underscores the need for improved data practices and discusses the exciting potential of AI-driven solutions explicitly tailored to nonprofit needs.

Woodrow then shifts to discuss the innovative tools and strategies being piloted to drive sector-specific innovation. He highlights GivingTuesday's role as a catalyst for technological adoption and experimentation and shares insights into the collaborative successes of the Fundraising.AI community. Through these efforts, Woodrow emphasizes the significance of leadership and open co-creation in achieving remarkable outcomes.

Episode Highlights

[01:35] Woodrow's Role at GivingTuesday

[03:08] Applying Systems Thinking from Commercial Marketing to Nonprofit Data Strategies

[04:15] Solving Measurement Challenges for GivingTuesday and Elevating Nonprofit Data Infrastructure

[06:29] The Unexpected Impact of GivingTuesday on Donor Retention and the Broader Generosity Landscape

[09:50] The Crucial Role of Generosity: Quantifying and Elevating Community Support within Civil Society

[12:34] Balancing New Practices and Technology to Strengthen the Nonprofit Sector

[14:47] The Power of Collective Action: How GivingTuesday's Unique Approach Drives Higher Engagement and Donor Retention

[18:37] The Human Element in Effective Workplace Giving

[19:27] Building Trust Through Authentic Engagement

[22:00] Shifting the Mindset: Embracing Abundance and Integrated Storytelling in the Nonprofit Sector

[26:43] AI Readiness in Nonprofits: Embracing Innovation and Overcoming Challenges for Sector-Specific Solutions

[30:57] Leveraging AI to Enhance Nonprofit Data Practices

[32:30] Driving Sector-Specific Innovation and Adoption through GivingTuesday

[36:41] Transforming Fundraising with AI: Celebrating Collaborative Success and Leadership in Innovation

Resources:

Connect with Woodrow Rosenbaum:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/woodrowrosenbaum/

Website: givingtuesday.org

Mentioned in the episode:

GivingTuesday Data Commons: givingtuesday.org/data-commons/

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai

Ready to decode the AI buzz? Let's elevate AI, one conversation at a time! 

From Apple Intelligence's strategic rebranding to Elon Musk's bold predictions, in today's episode, Nathan and Scott explore the evolving role of AI in our daily lives and its impact on future technological advancements. 

Diving deeper, they discuss recent breakthroughs such as desktop voice integration, autonomous movie creation, and the expanding capabilities of AI in human interaction. From celebrity narrations to the ethical implications of autonomous fundraising, Nathan and Scott navigate the complexities of AI's integration into society. They also examine AI's progression towards multilingual and multimodal capabilities, transforming how we interact with digital assistants and virtual avatars. 

The conversation shifts towards the realities of AI hype and the balance between innovation and responsible adoption. Nathan and Scot address the scrutiny major AI providers face, including ethical concerns and the implications for equity and privacy.  

In a pivotal segment, Nathan and Scott explore sustainability from a nonprofit perspective within AI adoption. They further discuss the environmental impact of computational power and the importance of responsible AI frameworks in mitigating these challenges. 

[02:13] Apple's Strategic AI Integration 

[04:37] AI Advancements and Elon Musk's Concerns 

[10:03] AI-Generated Videos and Their Potential Use Cases 

[18:21] AI-Powered Avatars 

[25:03] Language Models and Their Applications 

[27:22] AI Hype, Ethics, and Readiness for Organizations 

[30:43] Responsible AI Use in Nonprofit Sector 

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai

Additional Resources

Apple Intelligence + OpenAI's announcement 

Runway Gen-3 Opens to Public. 

Elon Musk's reaction to Apple and OpenAI 

TIME + ElevenLabs 

GPT-5 is not finished yet, and Sam Altman expects it to be a "significant leap forward." 

Character.AI is now allowing users to talk with AI avatars over calls. 

Google Translate is adding support for 110 new languages 

Perplexity coming under fire 

Environmental Impact of AI 

Bill Gates's big bet on Nuclear power 

This episode features Shannon McCracken, the CEO of The Nonprofit Alliance (TNPA), who brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the nonprofit sector. Recognized by The NonProfit Times as a Power & Influence Top 50 Honoree in 2022 and 2023, Shannon has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to effect change across multiple areas of nonprofit operations.

Moreover, the NonProfit Times lauds her for her remarkable impact: "It is astonishing how much and how quickly one person can impact multiple silos of the nonprofit sector. McCracken has expanded an association for direct response fundraising to almost every aspect of running a nonprofit, especially regulation and professional education. She's made room under the tent to strengthen all associations and charities. Her impact is felt nationwide."

During today's conversation, Shannon explores the multifaceted impact of AI on nonprofits, highlighting its role in scaling solutions, enhancing donor connections, and leveling the playing field for smaller organizations. She also discusses data privacy, the need for federal regulation, and the importance of equipping staff with AI fluency to maintain competitiveness.

Moreover, Shannon passionately describes how AI can help nonprofits operate more efficiently, freeing up staff to focus on meaningful human connections. She explores AI's potential to improve DEI outcomes and stresses the importance of maintaining trust within nonprofits. Finally, she provides actionable steps to get involved with TNPA's advocacy efforts and the importance of proactive engagement with AI to ensure its benefits are fully realized while mitigating potential risks.

[03:08] Lessons from Special Olympics to Charity Navigator

[06:32] The story of The Nonprofit Alliance

[07:54] Beneficial AI to Enhance Nonprofit Work Without Altering Its Core Mission

[10:30] The Intersection of AI and Data Privacy

[13:39] Federal Action on AI

[16:15] Empowering Staff with AI Fluency

[19:31] Balancing Efficiency and Employee Well-being

[20:41] AI and DEI: Leveraging Technology to Drive Inclusive and Ethical Conversations

[23:52] The Threefold Impact of AI on Nonprofits

[26:02] Freeing Up Nonprofit Staff for Meaningful Human Connections

[27:13] AI and Trust in Nonprofits

[30:42] Get Involved with TNPA

[32:53] Navigate AI's Impact with Optimism and Caution

Resources: 

Connect with Shannon:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/smccracken

The Nonprofit Alliance (TNPA): tnpa.org

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai

This special episode is specially crafted for listeners new to the technology or seeking to strengthen their foundational knowledge! 

Over the past few months, we've received valuable input from our audience, ranging from seasoned AI users to those entirely new to the field. Many have shared their enthusiasm for learning but have requested a breakdown of essential AI basics. In response, Nathan and Scott are here today to deliver just that! 

Nathan and Scott begin the conversation by discussing the transformative impact of generative AI across different sectors, emphasizing its versatility and exponential growth. They share personal anecdotes and practical examples, illustrating how generative AI can streamline tasks, boost productivity, and enhance decision-making processes. Also, they explore the capabilities of generative AI in depth, from distilling complex information to creating immersive visuals and conducting real-time translations. 

Furthermore, the conversation delves into the nuances of working with AI tools such as ChatGPT, Plexi, and others, highlighting the importance of integrating AI into everyday workflows. Nathan and Scott stress the significance of starting with tasks that one wishes to offload or optimize, rather than those they enjoy, to fully leverage the technology's potential. They also emphasize responsible AI usage, discussing privacy settings and best practices for ensuring ethical AI deployment. They further share valuable tips on engaging with generative AI effectively, including speaking to AI as if it were a human, specifying preferences, and providing feedback to refine outputs. Moreover, the discussion extends to the evolving landscape of AI tools, anticipating future advancements and the integration of AI into everyday applications seamlessly. 

[01:15] Introducing 'Angel's Episode': Breaking Down AI Basics for Everyone 

[02:57] Transformation and Exponential Growth of AI 

[08:15] Predictive AI and Generative AI 

[13:43] AI From Tools to Modalities 

[18:28] Practical AI Applications in Everyday Life 

[22:47] Practical Tips for Effective Use of Generative AI 

Resources: 

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai/

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how AI is reshaping fundraising practices and discover how your organization can lead the charge in creating a positive, lasting impact through innovative donor engagement strategies!

Join Brian Gawor in today's episode as he explores the transformative impact of AI and ethical innovation in fundraising. As a seasoned expert in advancement and donor engagement, Brian dives deep into the evolving landscape where technology meets philanthropy, reshaping how organizations connect with donors in meaningful ways.

Brian Gawor, CFRE, serves as the Consultant and Director of Business Development at Johnson, Grossnickle and Associates (JGA). With over 25 years of experience in higher education donor engagement and development, Brian is dedicated to helping nonprofits leverage data to enhance their fundraising efforts. At JGA, he uses his extensive background in data analytics and philanthropy to assist clients in growing their philanthropy through innovative data analytics tools and traditional consulting services.

Throughout the episode, Brian sheds light on key insights gained from his extensive experience, highlighting the pivotal role of predictive analytics and psychographic profiling in understanding donor behavior. He discusses practical strategies for nonprofits to leverage AI as a tool for efficiency and as a catalyst for enhancing donor joy and engagement.

Drawing parallels to major shifts in other industries driven by technology, Brian emphasizes the urgency for fundraisers to adapt and innovate. He challenges traditional metrics and approaches, advocating for a donor-centric mindset that bridges the gap between technological capabilities and human connection.

Moreover, Brian shares exciting developments such as the upcoming Indy Summit, where industry leaders will gather to explore AI applications, ethical frameworks, and hands-on experiences with psychographic profiles. This event promises to equip fundraisers with actionable insights to navigate the future landscape of philanthropy with confidence and compassion.

Highlights

[01:28] Reflections on Humor and Heart in the Nonprofit World

[05:22] Story of a Chicago Hippie Kid: From First-Generation College Graduate to Changing Paths

[06:33] From Fundraising Frontlines to Donor Insights: A Journey Through Nonprofit Innovation

[10:38] The Irreplaceable Value of Direct Donor Contact

[12:20] Charitable Organizations in the Age of Innovation and Generosity

[13:38] Embracing Innovation with a Gen X Edge

[15:25] From Skepticism to Critical Engagement in the Digital Age

[17:36] AI and Social Change with Optimism and Caution

[19:04] Empowering Fundraising with AI: Predictive Insights, Psychographic Profiles, and Creative Generation

[23:35] Adapting to Donor Dynamics: Innovating Fundraising in Higher Education and Beyond

[26:40] Transforming Fundraising from Engagement to Precision Philanthropy

[29:30] Trends and Transformations in Philanthropy with AI and Predictive Analytics

[32:25] AI and Ethical Innovation

Resources: 

Connect with Brian:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brian-gawor-cfre/

Mentioned in the episode:

Indy Summit: indy-summit-registration/

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai/

Join a conversation on shaping a future where AI serves the greater good while navigating the challenges it presents!

During today's conversation, Nathan and Scott unpack the diverse range of perspectives surrounding AI's impact on society, particularly its role in addressing global challenges outlined in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting on their experiences at a recent conference, AI for Good Global Summit -2024.

From insightful interviews with industry leaders to eye-opening sessions on digital well-being, Nathan and Scott candidly discuss the dichotomy of promise and perils inherent in AI advancement. They highlight key takeaways, such as the urgent need for responsible AI development and prioritizing humanity over utility.

With a blend of humor and introspection, Nathan and Scott navigate complex topics, including the influence of technology on youth, ethical considerations in AI governance, and the role of corporate incentives in driving AI innovation. Drawing from personal anecdotes and expert insights, they offer valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of AI and its implications for society.

Episode Highlights

[00:55] Reflecting on the AI for Good Global Summit: Insights and Surprises

[06:48] Unpacking the SDGs and the Role of AI: Challenges and Opportunities

[12:24] The Promise and Perils of AI

[15:25] Insights from the Interview of Nicholas Thompson, the CEO of the Atlantic, with Sam Altman, CEO of Open AI

[21:09] The Impact of Technology on Youth

[25:36] Balancing AI for Good with Corporate Incentives

Resources: 

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai/

Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest in AI technology and its impact on the fundraising sector and hear firsthand insights from one of the most significant AI conferences in the world!

In this exciting episode of the Fundraising AI Podcast, Nathan Chappell and Scott Rosenkrans explore the latest AI breakthroughs and discuss the challenges and opportunities they present. Also, they share insights from their experiences at the summit, highlighting key technological advancements such as ElevenLabs's AI-generated music and the groundbreaking features of OpenAI's GPT-4.0, including its improved voice capabilities and continuous dialogue function.

The discussion then shifts to Google's recent release of Gemini, a new version of their AI, which has already encountered significant issues with safety and accuracy. It serves as a segue into a broader conversation about the need for robust AI governance and standards. However, reflecting on their participation in the summit, Nathan and Scott express optimism and concern about the future of AI regulation. They also discuss the tension between the rapid pace of AI development and the need for effective governance. Furthermore, Nathan and Scott provide a candid look at the complexities of creating global standards for exponentially advancing technology and emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing these challenges during the discussion.

Episode Highlights

[02:27] AI's Musical Evolution

[08:01] The Rise of AI Personal Assistants

[15:50] Bridging the Gap Between Innovation and Responsibility

[19:25] Governance in AI: Tension Between Scale and Safety

[23:48] Reflections on AI Governance at AI for Good Global Summit

Resources: 

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai/

This conversation delves into the relationship between technology, community engagement, and philanthropy, illuminating pathways to enhance connectivity, empowerment, and efficacy within the nonprofit sector. Our guest today is Soraya Alexander, an esteemed figure renowned for her innovative approaches to fundraising and digital outreach within the nonprofit landscape. 

 Soraya serves as the COO of GoFundMe and President of its subsidiary, Classy. Under her leadership, GoFundMe empowers people to help each other through innovative technology, while Classy assists nonprofits in maximizing their fundraising efforts for more significant social and environmental impact. Together, these platforms facilitate the annual raising of billions of dollars. She is also a board member of Urban Surf 4 Kids, supporting foster and adoptive youth through surf therapy and mentorship. 

Soraya shares her journey from aspiring to be Secretary of State to driving innovation at Classy, where she focuses on empowering nonprofits through cutting-edge technology and community-building strategies. She delves into the transformative power of community in the nonprofit sector, challenging the traditional notion of "community of supporters" and advocating for a more dynamic, interactive approach.  

Moreover, we explore the generational shifts in giving, highlighting how younger donors seek to be active participants rather than passive supporters. Soraya discusses the need for nonprofits to adapt their campaign strategies and technological tools to meet the evolving expectations of these new cohorts of givers. 

In a candid discussion about technology and AI, Soraya reveals Classy's thoughtful, principled approach to developing AI tools. She underscores the importance of transparency, security, and control, ensuring that innovation never comes at the expense of trust. 

Episode Highlights

[03:26] Soraya's Journey 

[07:04] Balancing Innovation and Impact with Caution and Purpose 

[09:26] How Classy and GoFundMe are Revolutionizing Fundraising 

[13:48] Transforming Community: From Isolated Supporters to Connected Changemakers 

[17:26] Adapting to Generational Shifts in Fundraising 

[19:35] Prioritizing Trust: Principles and Patience in Launching AI Tools for Fundraising 

Resources: 

Connect with Soraya: 

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/sorayagalexander/ 

Website: classy.org/ 

Connect with Nathan and Scott:

LinkedIn (Nathan): linkedin.com/in/nathanchappell/

LinkedIn (Scott): linkedin.com/in/scott-rosenkrans

Website: fundraising.ai/