Leveraging influential content creators, celebrities, and internet personalities, AND your board members can SIGNIFICANTLY boost awareness and fundraising for your organization.

So how did the American Lung Association do it back in 2021? You’re about to find out.

Nick Lynch, co-founder and CEO of Collidescope, and Maxine Tatlonghari, Development Director for the American Lung Association, are here to reveal the secrets behind their Champions Unite event, which evolved from a traditional gala into an online talent show.

In today’s case study, we’ll get into the nuts and bolts of creating successful virtual events and the critical role of data measurement in tracking influencer impact, even if you’re starting with an “ugly” spreadsheet!

Maxine and Nick share the importance of unique tracking links and aligning content around influencers' busy schedules.

They also discuss how their collaborative efforts helped educate and involve the board in this new digital approach, and how they selected influencers who were already mission-aligned, leading to a more cost-effective and impactful event.

P.S. Don’t forget to register for my Monthly Giving Summit coming up on Sept 5-6 from 1-4 pm ET - the ONLY virtual event designed to help nonprofits build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good. RSVP for FREE here!

Resources & Links

Connect with Maxine on LinkedIn and follow @californialung on Instagram.

Connect with Nick on LinkedIn or via email at [email protected].

Learn more about Collidescope on their website.

Check out Nick’s new book, Impact Redefined: Transforming Partnerships, Social Moments, and Personal Connections to Drive Change.

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you.

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

What if you could turn every event you host into an unforgettable experience that leaves attendees feeling inspired and connected?

I’m hanging out with Joey Goon today, President of Utopia Experience, and we’re  uncovering ALL the secrets to creating impact and genuine connections at events.

Joey takes us behind the scenes of a high-profile mastermind event in San Diego with celebrities and influencers, and how an event structure and schedule led to a successful impromptu $100,000 fundraising effort for a terminally ill girl.

Joey and I discuss why having a top-notch production team matters, and how integrating psychological safety and neuroscience principles into event planning can create transformative experiences.

Looking to elevate your virtual and hybrid events? We also explore effective strategies for using Zoom breakout rooms and how Joey approaches attendee matchmaking.

There are so many valuable tips in this episode for transforming your events into powerful, impactful experiences!

And, don’t forget to register for my Monthly Giving Summit coming up on Sept 5-6 from 1-4 pm ET - the ONLY virtual event designed to help nonprofits build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good. RSVP for FREE here!

Resources & Links

Learn more about Utopia Experience on their website and connect with Joey on LinkedIn. You can also tune in to his podcast, Impact Roadmap on Apple and Spotify.

Check out the Unforgettable Events ebook for FREE and learn Joey’s powerful frameworks for creating memorable events.

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you. 

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

Monthly giving is not just about a donation. It is about giving people a way to channel their purpose consistently.

And in today's episode, we’re unveiling the secrets behind making compelling asks – and the most powerful strategies for recurring donation requests, so you can leverage initial contributions for maximum impact.

For example, 29% of first time donors who became recurring donors, did so within the first 90 days of their initial gifts (!)

From speaking opportunities at events, to the effectiveness of storytelling through long-form videos and influencer partnerships, you’ll find out how to engage supporters in meaningful ways.

We discuss critical retention techniques such as monitoring churn rates and using automated email sequences to keep donor engagement high.

This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build lasting donor loyalty and even cultivate major gifts.

And, don’t forget to register for the Monthly Giving Summit coming up on Sept 5-6 from 1-4 pm ET - the ONLY virtual event designed to help nonprofits build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good. RSVP for FREE here!

Resources & Links

Tune in to the rest of this podcast series: Episode 133: Call In Your Believers and Episode 132: Build a Monthly Giving Program.

Check out Vik and Scott Harrison’s video on The Spring.

30 Podcasts to Pitch: https://positiveequation.com/podcastlist

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

How do you magnetically attract your monthly donors?

In this episode, I am diving into step three of my Monthly Giving Framework, which is all about calling in your believers. If you missed steps 1 and 2, go back and listen to Episode 131.

We'll discuss the essence of crafting a giving program with inclusive and accessible copy, how to find aligned partners that will spread the word, and the importance of a lead generation strategy that’s “always on.”

Get ready to scribble down some serious strategies to help you generate a sense of belonging, identity, community, and connection, with examples from Miry’s List and Movember.

By embracing the power of storytelling and clear messaging, we can nurture donors into a joyful, grateful community that's here to stay.

And, don’t forget to register for the Monthly Giving Summit coming up on Sept 5-6 from 1-4 pm ET - the ONLY virtual event designed to help nonprofits build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good. RSVP for FREE here!

Resources & Links

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you. 

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

What makes a giving program successful?

Today, I’m giving you a sneak peek into the first two crucial steps from my 5-step framework (which will be featured in even more detail in my book that comes out in September!)

Step 1 - Create the Product

Step 2 - Make It Easy

Whether you are just starting OR looking to refresh or audit your current program, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to get you on the right track.

I’m diving into the key questions you should ask around the why and structure of your program, what it means to create a “herd mentality”, and how to craft an irresistible identity that resonates with your mission and values.

You’ll also learn how to avoid gift abandonment by creating highly convertible, seamless, intuitive landing pages. Even a compelling headline, an uplifting image, and the strategic use of social proof will inspire action on your “Donate Now” button.

If growing your monthly giving is a priority this year, apply NOW for my Monthly Giving Mastermind that starts in July.

Resources & Links

Join The Sustainers, my Slack community for nonprofit professionals growing and scaling a recurring giving program.

Stuck on what to name your monthly giving program? Click here for my brainstorm guide: https://positiveequation.com/name or tune in to Episode 107: How to Name a Monthly Giving Program.

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you. 

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

How can we make every gift transformational instead of transactional?

Helen Quinn is an inspiring figure in the fundraising landscape, here to unveil how The CLEO Institute's "RISE" monthly giving program is rallying their community to face the urgency of climate action—one dollar at a time. 

As a client of my Monthly Giving Mastermind, Helen delves into the strategic branding and inclusive structure of the RISE program, tailored to resonate with every donor, especially local youth who are driven to make a difference. 

Plus, you’ll hear how Helen uses Givebutter to streamline donations and cultivate growth!

There are so many GOLDEN growth strategies in this episode, including the workflows behind their Earth Day 5K, a documentary screening, and the intricacies of hosting Jeffersonian dinners to create authentic conversations and community.

Resources & Links

Connect with Helen on LinkedIn, Instagram, or email at [email protected] and learn about The CLEO Institute on their website.

Applications are open for Round 5 of my Monthly Giving Mastermind that will start in July! Head to positiveequation.com/mastermind to apply!

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

How can a shift in mindset and a community of supporters revolutionize your nonprofit's funding strategies?

Join me on my back patio for a candid chat about the upcoming Monthly Giving Summit on September 5th and 6th.

Why is this summit important now?

Because scaling recurring giving programs that sustain vibrant communities and provide predictable revenue for organizations can't wait.

Day One is all about igniting your passion with behind-the-scenes insights, while Day Two offers personalized networking opportunities and breakout rooms tailored to your organization’s needs.

Whether you’re a newbie or have hundreds of thousands of monthly donors, you’ll find valuable coaching and advice.

Register for free at monthlygivingsummit.com and join a community focused on creating sustainable, predictable revenue streams. 

Let’s build something extraordinary together!

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

You have a monthly giving program… now what? Today’s episode will help you  transform everyday community engagement into a powerhouse of support for your cause.

Emily Teixeria, Executive Director of Politisit, is bringing a wealth of experience, from intelligence to grassroots politics, to our discussion on how her Childcare for Voters program is revolutionizing the way parents can participate in civic duties.

Her journey is not just inspiring—it's a blueprint for nonprofits looking to connect deeply with their audience and drive impactful change.

We'll explore the innovative strategies that have enabled Emily to launch a 'recurring first' fundraising approach, augmented by the Givebutter platform.

We also lay out creative methods to grow and retain your support base, from social media to friendship bracelets that keep the conversation—and contributions—flowing.

Resources & Links

Learn more about Politisit on their website and check out their monthly giving program, The Village.

Join The Sustainers, my Slack community for nonprofit professionals growing and scaling a recurring giving program.

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you. 

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

Today’s incredible case study is all about the power of LISTENING, with the guiding force behind Mission Partners, Carrie Fox.

First, we’re going back in time as Carrie reveals the rebranding genesis of the Public Health Communications Collaborative (PHCC) during the pandemic, shifting from a COVID-19 centric initiative to a broad-based community platform.

We’re covering all things public health messaging and tales from the trenches—the challenges they faced, campaigns led, and how they built trust and inspiration, bridging divides and bridging gaps.

We also reflect on a national survey Carrie orchestrated that got over 600 responses from just two questions, spotlighting an urgent need for digital proficiency.

Tune in to discover how Canva Pro and Hemingway App can help you craft messages that resonate with diverse audiences, and how strategically using LinkedIn’s boosted messaging can amplify your reach.

You’re going to have SO many takeaways as we shed light on the essence of simplicity and the courage to embrace new challenges.

Resources & Links

Learn more about Mission Partners on their website and tune in to the Mission Forward podcast.

Connect with Carrie on LinkedIn or email her at [email protected]. You can also learn more about her book, More Than Words: Communication Practices of Courageous Leaders.

Check out the tools we recommended in today’s episode: Hemingway App and Canva Pro.

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you. 

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...

The research is jarring. We spend upwards of five to seven hours a day on social media. But when women leave Instagram and TikTok, they generally feel worse about themselves.

Imagine a world where scrolling online leaves you invigorated, rather than caught in a   comparison trap. Andi Kay's foundation is on a mission to craft just that.

Bloom Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to helping girls build emotional resilience in a supportive community container. You scroll, but you leave feeling better.

In this episode, Andi and I unravel the complexities of social media and mental health. Plus, Andi shares how she’s structured an empowering, community-first approach on Circle, leveraging curated journal prompts, ambassadors, and journal clubs in a safe space.

Tune in for an exploration of what it means to nurture connections and equip young women with leadership and healing tools. We're inviting you to witness the transformative power of a supportive sisterhood!

Resources & Links

Learn more about Bloom Foundation on their website and on Instagram, check out their monthly giving program, and tune in to Andi’s podcast, How To Bloom.

Want to make Missions to Movements even better? Take a screenshot of this episode and share it on Instagram. Be sure to tag @positivequation so I can connect with you. 

This episode is presented by The Monthly Giving Builder.  

With the Monthly Giving Builder, you can generate your comprehensive monthly giving plan and build your program step by step - with a guided companion working alongside you from start to finish. 

Save the date for our next Monthly Giving Summit on February 25, 2027. Apply to speak here!

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mini Monthly Giving Mastermind and Retreat. If you have built a monthly giving program, join our high-touch peer coaching community for nonprofit leaders who are ready to break through.

Supercharge your monthly giving program and apply for my Monthly Giving VIP Intensive session. Only 2 spots are available this fall!

Let's Connect!

• Send a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and let us know what you think of the show!
• My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.
• Want to book Dana as a speaker for your even...