Hey Nonprofits!

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/

Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are reshaping the future of philanthropy, and changing the way donors give. Is your nonprofit missing out? This episode will teach you how to adapt to this growing trend.

In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits podcast, host Trevor Nelson sits down with Mitch Stein, as they cover the evolution of DAFs, their powerful tax benefits, and the psychology that makes them such an effective giving tool. You’ll learn how to make your organization more accessible to DAF donors, integrate DAFs into event fundraising, and cultivate deeper relationships that inspire ongoing generosity.

Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or board member, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you tap into one of the fastest-growing trends in charitable giving.

Transform how your donor's give with Chariot - https://www.givechariot.com/

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

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

Connect with Mitch Stein on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitch-stein/

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/

Your fundraising events are pushing away the donors you need most. It's time to stop hosting experiences that alienate the next generation and instead build a loyal community of young supporters who are excited to give.

In this episode of the Hey Nonprofits podcast, host Trevor Nelson is joined by event fundraising expert AJ Steinberg to discuss how to solve the generational giving gap. AJ explains how to design new events specifically for a younger crowd by genuinely listening to their ideas. Learn simple ways to provide amazing hospitality and a white glove service that makes every guest feel special. AJ also shares advice on how to get your board members involved in fundraising and how to prepare your event for any potential disaster. This discussion provides a clear guide for nonprofit leaders who want to build a strong community and secure support from younger generations.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

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

Connect with AJ on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajsteinbergproductions/

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/

📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌

0:00 - Are Your Events Driving Young Donors Away?

0:26 - What is the "Generational Cliff" in Fundraising?

1:22 - The #1 Mistake Nonprofits Make With Young Donors

1:55 - A Genius Strategy to Attract a New Generation of Donors

3:04 - How to Empower Young Donors (Without Losing Control)

3:47 - The Secret to Creating Events People Actually Want to Attend

5:09 - The Mindset Shift That Will Revolutionize Your Fundraising

5:44 - Is "Unreasonable Hospitality" the Future of Fundraising?

6:53 - A Simple Definition of Hospitality That Changes Everything

7:29 - The Terrible Donor Experience Most Nonprofits Create

8:37 - How to Provide a "White Glove" Experience for Donors

10:10 - A Powerful Story of Adapting Events for Your Donors

11:41 - How to Create an After-Party That Attracts Young Professionals

14:34 - How to Get Your Board Members to Actually Help at Events

16:09 - A Simple Trick to Get Your Board to Find New Sponsors

18:34 - A Leader's Guide to Engaging Your Board Effectively

19:09 - How to Disaster-Proof Your Fundraising Event

20:06 - The First Steps to Take After a Natural Disaster

22:44 - A Powerful Story of Fundraising After a Tragedy

25:04 - Why You Shouldn't Abandon "Old" Fundraising Methods

27:25 - The Most Important Question for Every Fundraiser

28:12 - Don't Make Fundraising Harder By Doing This

29:20 - The Real Reason Nonprofit Leaders Struggle to Fundraise

What's the one thing Michael Jordan and every successful nonprofit have in common? It’s the single most important investment for your nonprofit's growth, yet most leaders overlook it.

On this episode of the Hey Nonprofits podcast, host Trevor Nelson sits down with former NFL player and fundraising expert Reggie Rivers to reveal why coaching is the key to continuous growth. They discuss how finding the right coach can transform your leadership, improve your team, and help you ask for money with confidence. Reggie also shares common mistakes nonprofits make at fundraising events that could be costing you thousands in donations. This conversation offers powerful advice for any leader looking to build a stronger organization and raise more support for their mission.

🔗 *CONNECT WITH US* 🔗

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

Connect with Reggie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reggierivers/

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/

📌 *CHAPTERS* 📌

0:00 - Why Every Leader Needs a Coach

2:20 - Reggie Rivers' "Welcome to the NFL" Moment

3:51 - How A Former NFL Player Sizes You Up

5:55 - The Most Overlooked Key to Success

7:02 - How to Find a Coach as an Adult

8:17 - How Your Employees Can Be Your Best Coaches

9:54 - The Hardest Thing for a Founder to Do

12:00 - The Fastest Way to Grow Your Organization

13:05 - Stop Correcting Your Team & Let Them Cook

14:10 - How Reggie Rivers Got Into Fundraising

15:32 - How to Use Your Platform for Good

18:02 - The Biggest Fear for Most Fundraisers

21:15 - The Secret to Asking for Money

22:20 - The #1 Thing Your Audience Responds To

24:35 - Are Your Donors Waiting for You to Ask?

28:42 - Why Fundraising Events Are More Crucial Than Ever

30:33 - What Is a Charity's Biggest Blind Spot?

38:00 - Are You Nickel-and-Diming Your Donors?

40:37 - The Biggest Mistake Fundraisers Make

44:56 - 3 Simple Tips for a Better Paddle Raise

47:44 - The Most Common Mistake with Bid Paddles

51:51 - How Trevor Nelson and HGA Started