Dan Lyles shares how he has been selling multiples consistently in live auction by using one magic phrase: "who else wants one?".

Reserve the ¡Fiesta en Mexico! trip to use at your next live auction: https://hgafundraising.com/fiesta-en-mexico/

This podcast episode is perfect for auctioneers and nonprofit fundraisers looking to maximize their live auction revenue by getting the most out of each item. Selling multiples isn't easy. Dan Lyles reveals his strategy to sell multiples at any auction event - using HGA's ¡Fiesta en Mexico! package as an example.

Work with Dan Lyles for your next live auction: https://danlylesauctions.com/https://danlylesauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Dan Lyles on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Join Tony, the Auction Guy, as he shares his personal journey into the world of auctioneering. From embracing van life to honing his skills through improv classes, Tony's story is one of continuous growth and exploration.

This episode offers a unique glimpse into the life of an auctioneer, highlighting the importance of trying new things and building connections. Perfect for nonprofit fundraisers and auctioneers looking for inspiration and insight into the auctioneering lifestyle.

Connect your association with the funding of its dreams: https://www.expoauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Tony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyrissley/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Trevor Nelson and Sandy Hilsenrath answer fundraising and nonprofit-related questions from the audience and the HGA team.

Submit your questions for our next AMA episode: https://hgafundraising.com/ask-your-question

Questions answered:

00:00 What separates nonprofits from consistently grow year over year, from those that stay flat?

02:07 What is the single most important fundraising tool you have?

02:43 If you could reset one misconception nonprofits have about fundraising partners, what would it be?

06:52 What social media platform to find corporate sponsors / partners

08:28 What are some creative ways you've seen nonprofits raise money outside of the traditional methods (i.e. live auction, silent auction, paddle raise)

10:40 What is the most impactful gift you've received on Christmas?

12:07 How to bring up fresh ideas for fundraising when you have stubborn board members stuck in their old ways?

15:05 Best communication practices for the new year

17:30 How would you build a nonprofit "super team" from scratch?

19:12 Which HGA auction items are raising the most amount of money right now?

20:48 If you had one piece of an advice for an event fundraiser, what would it be?

23:41 What's the other magic number for fundraising?

24:37 What are the best industries to target for corporate sponsorships?

28:16 Do you believe in new year's resolutions? And what resolutions would you recommend for nonprofits to have for 2026?

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Sandy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrahilsenrath/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

What if the secret to being a better fundraiser is taking better care of yourself first?

Fear and stress for fundraisers is REAL. In this conversation, fundraising expert and CEO of Practivated, Mallory Erickson, shares how prioritizing your well-being isn't just good for you—it's essential for creating authentic, lasting relationships with donors.

If you're exhausted from transactional fundraising, struggling to build genuine connections, or feeling like you have to sacrifice your health to hit your goals—this episode will give you the tools to overcome these challenges.

Boost your fundraising confidence with the help of practivated.com

Overcome fundraising challenges by reading Mallory's book, What the Fundraising! Get your copy here: malloryerickson.com/book

Listen to Mallory's podcast for cutting-edge fundraising strategies https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-the-fundraising/id1575421652

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Mallory on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mallory-erickson-bressler/

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Why does everyone at your fundraiser need a paddle? We've teamed up with our friend and world class fundraiser, Chris Hensley, to give you a step by step guide (and real time case study that raised $26,000) on how to add the paddle drop to your next event.

In this episode, Trevor Nelson sits down with Chris Hensley, professional auctioneer and former fundraiser, to break down exactly how paddle drops work, why they’re so effective, and how nonprofits can use them to dramatically increase event revenue.

Explore Chris Hensley's consulting and auctioneering services: https://www.bidraisebid.com/

*In this episode we cover:*

- What a paddle drop really is (and what it’s not)

- How to create anticipation and excitement before the moment happens

- Why surprise is critical to maximizing participation

- How to engage donors at every giving level

- The role trusted community leaders play in increasing donations

- How paddle drops help identify and cultivate future major donors

- Why transparency and clear communication matter during the ask

- How the right auctioneer can drive more results

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hensley-auctions/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Are fundraising events no longer the #1 way to raise money? Trevor Nelson and Marty Murad dig into that question and uncover what’s really happening in the new generosity landscape.

*In this episode, they break down:*

- Why communities still crave in-person events

- The real psychology behind why donors give (and why they stop)

- How family-business thinking can strengthen a nonprofit

- Why younger generations are struggling to give

- How to simplify the giving process to increase participation

- How small nonprofits can dramatically grow revenue with smarter events

- Why thanking donors more often directly increases donation size

Need help with your auction event? Check out https://muradauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Marty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helpingnon-profitsraisemoremoneyatevents/

Follow Murad Auctions on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/murad-auction-group-llc/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising expert Johnny Bravo Holloway, whose decades of experience in radio, event hosting, auctioneering, and nonprofit fundraising have helped countless organizations transform their donor engagement strategies.

Reserve the most profitable auction items in fundraising - Trips and Experiences! https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Want to raise more money at your next fundraising events? Email Johnny at [email protected]

In this episode, Johnny breaks down how entertainment, messaging, video content, and emotional connection shape the success of any fundraising event. You’ll learn why understanding your audience’s intentions matters, how pre-event planning directly affects donations, and why smaller, more engaged rooms often outperform larger ones.

Whether you're hosting galas, auctions, or donor events, this conversation will give you clear, actionable insights to help you engage supporters authentically and raise more money with confidence.

🔑 Key Topics Discussed:

- How to fundraising through entertainment and storytelling

- How audience engagement directly impacts giving

- Using video content to create certainty and connection

- Selecting speakers who move donors emotionally

- Why mission-centric messaging raises more money

- Pre-event planning strategies that drive attendance

- Understanding donor intention vs. donor behavior

- Why “less is more” when it comes to audience size

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Johnny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnyholloway/

Learn more about the services Johnny and his team provide: https://www.johnnybravoentertainment.com/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

In this episode, Trevor Nelson sits down with Jennifer Knopf, founder of the REED Charitable Foundation, to unpack how her team raised over $1,000,000 in just two days—and why a clear mission, bold storytelling, and the courage to ask made it possible.

Jennifer shares the origin story of REED, its mission to support children with dyslexia, and how she built their 6th Annual Dyslexia Experience and Gala that brought shocking results—including securing John Hoke III, Chief Design Officer at Nike, simply by daring to ask.

Support Reed Charitable Foundation https://reedcharitablefoundation.org/

In this episode of Hey Nonprofits! you’ll learn:

- The story behind REED Charitable Foundation

- How Jennifer's organization raised $1M+ during a 2-day event

- Why clarity of mission attracts and educates donors

- The realities faced by children who struggle with dyslexia

- How emotional storytelling drives giving

- The surprising power of “just ask” in fundraising

- How bold partnerships can lead to event success

If you work in fundraising, events, education, or simply love stories of mission-driven impact, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and lead with heart.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Jennifer Knopf on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-knopf-99042764/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Fundraising is changing — fast.

In this episode, Brad Ton and Trevor Nelson unpack the new rules of fundraising, social selling, and human connection. If you're a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or someone who works in donor engagement, this conversation will change how you show up.

Brad and Trevor explore what it means to move from transactional fundraising to transformational fundraising — and why authenticity, vulnerability, and emotional connection are becoming the most powerful tools in the sector.

You’ll learn:

- Why social selling matters more than ever

- How authenticity can transform donor relationships

- The emotional drivers behind great fundraising

- Why current donors are your strongest pipeline

- The power of gratitude in donor engagement

- How leadership shapes culture and connection

- The role of mindfulness and presence in fundraising

- Why personal adversity often creates better fundraisers

- How to build genuine human connection in a digital world

If you’re ready to rethink your approach to fundraising, deepen your leadership, and build more meaningful relationships, this episode is for you.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradton/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/

Is your nonprofit focusing on the wrong thing? The key to successful fundraising events is proper planning, long before the bidding begins. There’s a foundational shift nonprofits must make if they want to fill the room with the right people, inspire generosity, and create an event that actually raises money.

In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits! podcast, host Trevor Nelson sits down with fundraising strategist Dan Lyles to unpack the core elements that make auction events work. Dan shares why “getting the right people in the room” is far more important than décor, themes, or long programs. He explains how donor psychology, relationship-building, and intentional program structure can dramatically increase giving. You’ll also learn why auctioneers shouldn’t be afraid to ask boldly, how to train board members to engage donors effectively, and how technology can streamline the event experience.

If you’re planning a fundraising auction—or want to improve the results of your current event—this conversation offers practical guidance every nonprofit leader can apply.

Work with Dan Lyles Auctions https://danlylesauctions.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

Connect with Trevor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-nelson-b8922a167/

Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-lyles/

Follow Hey Nonprofits! on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hey-non-profits-raise-more-money/

💙 *ABOUT HGA FUNDRAISING* 💙

This episode was brought to you by HGA Fundraising. The team at HGA helps event fundraisers create auction success with the most profitable (and mission focused) auction items in the space. Trips and experiences that excite donors, ignite bidding, and help your organization RAISE MORE MONEY.

To learn more about HGA Fundraising click here: https://hgafundraising.com/trips-and-experiences/

Sign up to receive the HGA Fundraising newsletter to receive fundraising insights from the brightest minds in the space: https://hgafundraising.com/subscribe-to-newsletter/

Feeling stuck with your fundraising? No matter where you are at in your journey, HGA offers FREE coaching for fundraisers:

https://hgafundraising.com/nonprofit-coaching/