Did you know 97% of recurring donor value occurs AFTER the first gift? 

Author and nonprofit advisor Dave Raley is here to share why the subscription economy is reshaping recurring giving and how nonprofits can shift from a transactional mindset, to building engaging donor experiences that foster long-term retention.

We get into why you need a dedicated staff focusing on recurring giving programs (one of Dave's clients saw 6-figure year-over-year growth after implementing this!), how brands like organic perfumery Ffern are creating intrigue before a purchase decision, and how to prevent involuntary donor churn from declined or expired credit cards.

From refining onboarding processes to offering “upsells” and donor-exclusive experiences, Dave provides an inspiring roadmap for maximizing the lifetime value of monthly donors!

Dave also shares details on his book launch and how you can win one of 10 free signed copies. Click here to sign up and be automatically entered to win.

Resources & Links

Connect with Dave on LinkedIn and check out his new book, The Rise of Sustainable Giving: How the Subscription Economy Is Transforming Recurring Giving and What Nonprofits Can Do to Benefit. You can also sign up for Dave’s weekly newsletter, The Wave Report to be entered to win one of TEN signed copies of his new book.

One of Dave’s favorite recurring giving experiences is from the International Justice Mission.

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

Nonprofits need to stop playing it safe. 

Liz Bohannon (our keynote speaker for the upcoming 2025 Monthly Giving Summit!) is here to share her take on embracing perceived failures, or as she calls them, "Pluck Ups." 

What if failure wasn't something to fear, but something to celebrate?

Liz shares how the stories we tell ourselves about setbacks can either lead to shame and isolation or open doors to resilience and growth. She recounts a powerful moment when she misinterpreted an audience member’s reaction during a talk, only to later realize they were creating art inspired by her words. 

This episode will challenge you to rethink your approach to risk-taking and storytelling, and teach you all about “failure funerals.” Because here’s the thing: impact-driven work requires BOLDNESS, vulnerability, and a willingness to "pluck up."

Plus, get a sneak peek into what Liz has planned for her keynote at the Monthly Giving Summit… an event you won’t want to miss! RSVP for FREE here.

Resources & Links

Connect with Liz on LinkedIn and Instagram and check out her book Beginner’s Pluck: Build Your Life of Purpose and Impact Now.

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

Last week’s federal grant freeze sent shockwaves through the nonprofit sector, and you may be wondering, what is the impact as it relates to funding and future sustainability? 

DeaRonda Harrison, CEO of June First Firm, is here to break down what this means for grant-funded nonprofits. DeaRhonda shares her expertise on federal and private grants, explaining the ripple effects of the freeze, the confusion surrounding the government’s response, and how organizations can adapt in times of funding uncertainty.

She also shares a crucial grant writing tip that will help you improve your chances of securing future funding.

If you’re wondering what steps to take next, DeaRonda shares where to find reliable grant research resources like the Foundation Directory, how to adjust your grant applications, and why proactive fundraising strategies (like strengthening donor relationships and recurring giving programs!) are more important than ever. 

Resources & Links

Connect with DeaRonda on LinkedIn and her website and subscribe to her newsletter for more resources.

DeaRonda’s go-to grant-writing resources include the Foundation Directory, Instrumentl, GrantStation (free if you’re part of the Grant Professionals Association), GuideStar, and Cause IQ.

Seeking more updates and guidance on the federal freeze? DeaRonda recommends the National Council of Nonprofits.

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

How can you use a quiz to elevate your nonprofit’s fundraising goals?

I’m excited to bring back Lauren Hanson from Every Shelter, to share the nuts and bolts of their successful GivingTuesday quiz that generated 170+ new contacts AND counting.

Inspired by The Adventure Project, who deployed a similar strategy (see Episode 7!), Lauren breaks down the easy-to-use quiz maker she used, and the 4-part email sequence that follows, inviting participants to join their monthly giving program, The Haven.

From crafting recycled billboard bags with Ugandan refugee tailors to painting a powerful mural in Brooklyn, collaboration is at the heart of all of Every Shelter’s campaigns, amplifying support for displaced refugees in East Africa. 

This episode proves that with a little creativity and a compelling quiz, nonprofits can create lasting impact and inspire change.

Resources & Links

Learn more about Every Shelter on their website and on Instagram. And don’t forget to take their quiz and get a FREE sticker! Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn.

Tune in to Episode 91: Increasing Monthly Gifts & GivingTuesday Ideas to hear my first conversation with Lauren.

Lauren’s GivingTuesday strategy was inspired by Episode 7: How To Attract New Donors with a Quiz and Social Media Ads with The Adventure Project’s Tesi Klipsch.

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

How can you use LinkedIn to boost your nonprofit’s visibility, partnerships and funding? 

In this episode, I’m sharing FIVE powerful tips that can help you maximize LinkedIn in 2025. 

We’ll cover how to craft an impeccable LinkedIn profile and company page that serves as your nonprofit’s “digital handshake”, using the “2-2-1” content strategy to captivate and connect, and the importance of experimenting with different post types (from videos, to polls, newsletters, and long-form articles) to see what resonates most. 

I also delve into the essential elements of creating a winning LinkedIn strategy, focusing on team involvement and how to create posts that spark real conversation and add immense value. 

If you’re ready to up your LinkedIn game this year and connect meaningfully with donors and supporters, this episode is your ultimate guide to leveraging this powerful platform to its fullest.

Resources & Links

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

Get ready to explore the vibrant world of ocean and beach conservation! Chad Nelsen, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation, leads one of the most impactful environmental nonprofit organizations.

Today, Chad shares his 27+ years of turning surfing culture into a powerful force for environmental stewardship, now with over 200 chapters and thousands of volunteers.

You’ll hear everything from how Surfrider aligned corporate partnerships with brands like Alaska Airlines, GoPro, and Pinterest, and how advanced technologies like Fundraise Up are helping them revolutionize their donor retention and monthly giving.

Chad’s mission-driven leadership led him to a life-changing speaking opportunity with TEDx, and he shares how he prepared for his 11-minute talk and WHY he hired a storytelling coach.

Using platforms like LinkedIn and the newly trending Bluesky, Chad also highlights how Surfrider has tapped into cultural moments to amplify its brand identity and impact.

Resources & Links

Learn more about Surfrider Foundation on their website and connect with Chad on LinkedIn or Bluesky.

Check out Chad’s TEDx talk, How To Scale Community-Led Advocacy.

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

When I was 23, I could not even fathom starting a nonprofit, but Courtney Johnson did just that. In this episode, she shares her extraordinary journey and how her father’s battle with long cancer inspired her to start Culinary Care, an organization dedicated to supporting cancer patients with nourishing meals. 

Fostering corporate partnerships have been a game changer for Courtney and she walks us through how hosting 20 of their interactive, culinary “cookoff” events resulted in $300,000! 

We break down the details of how companies can sponsor a cookoff, how Culinary Care partners with local restaurants, and her strategies for growing past 200+ monthly donors in their giving program.

Personal connections have also played a pivotal role in building their community and retaining donors, and we discuss how Courtney's personal branding and authentic storytelling have bolstered their mission. 

I love how Courtney's unwavering commitment and fearlessness has not only honored her father's memory, but created a compassionate support system for those fighting cancer.

Resources & Links

Learn more about Culinary Care on their website and connect with Courtney on LinkedIn, or at [email protected].

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

In 2025, can you dare to wonder? 

To kick off the new year, I’m sharing my word of the year, and what’s to come on the Missions to Movements podcast in 2025. The four core themes we’ll be diving into? Revolutionizing fundraising, monthly giving programs, personal branding and thought leadership, and creating unique partnerships.

In this episode, I also take a moment to reflect on my favorite moments from 2024, from writing a book to launching a successful virtual Monthly Giving Summit, and how these experiences taught me the power of collaboration and innovation. 

Guided by the theme of wonder, I encourage you to ask yourself "what if?" as we step into 2025, and challenge conventional practices.

Where can you let go of control, bring on supportive team members, or invest in tools that foster productivity and creativity?

What word is going to guide your nonprofit journey this year?

Plus, a very exciting new partnership with LinkedIn!

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

Could embracing the latest nonprofit tech trends redefine your fundraising strategy for 2025?!

Today I’m sharing a comprehensive, data-driven look at my top FIVE key trends and predictions that will transform how you connect with supporters in the new year… starting with AI!

We’ll explore how AI innovations like Claude and Perplexity are transforming grant writing and donor communication, with fascinating examples from the American Red Cross (who use AI for real-time disaster relief), to Greenpeace Australia and UNICEF, who leverage AI chatbots to streamline more complex donor interactions.

There are many other emerging trends, like the impact creator economy, and why it’s important to empower employees to become content creators - not only because these stories foster a deeper connection to your mission, but it’s great for attracting new talent, too.

Social purchasing is also taking center stage in 2025, with platforms like TikTok Shop revolutionizing how we connect with causes.

I’ll also discuss the emerging trend of building devoted donor communities through recurring giving and the strategic hiring needed to sustain these initiatives. (Oxfam and the International Rescue Committee are setting the precedent with roles focused on community engagement!)

As we wrap up the year, I encourage you to reflect on these trends and adapt your strategies to stay ahead. Happy holidays!

Resources & Links

Check out my recommended AI tools: Claude and Perplexity and my AI-generated “Gratitude Garland” here.

Learn the basics of AI with Tim Lockie’s course, AI For Anyone and use code EQUATION for 5% off.

More Than Giving - Virtual Assistants for Nonprofits

charity: water created an immersive experience in Franklin, TN combining storytelling and sensory-rich exhibits. Check it out here.

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!

The Canada Post strike began on November 15th, and Shellie Power, the Executive Director of Hope Centre Ministries, is here to shine a light on the fascinating creative strategies she’s crafted to maintain crucial donor communications. (Hint: it’s pretty heartwarming!)

We talk about the strike's ripple effect that has been felt across sectors and how it’s challenging nonprofits to find innovative ways to keep fundraising efforts afloat.

Shellie turned these postal delays into a chance for personal connection with donors. By hand-delivering not just mail, but also cookies, they transformed a setback into a joyful engagement opportunity.

We dig into the logistics of their approach and how it led to increased donations and stronger relationships. This episode is a testament to the resilience and innovation that nonprofits bring to bear during crises, fostering community and connection even amidst adversity.

Resources & Links

Connect with Shellie on the Hope Centre Ministries website, on LinkedIn, or via email at [email protected].

My book, The Monthly Giving Mastermind, is here! Grab a copy here and learn my framework to build, grow, and sustain subscriptions for good.

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. 

The Recurring Giving Workshop: A Working Session to Increase Online Donations - 9/24 @ 2 pm ET - RSVP HERE!

This show is brought to you by iDonate. Your donation page is leaking donors, and iDonate's new pop-up donation form is here to fix that. See it in action.

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 event? Click here!