So, you've got a vision to grow your fundraising program, but you're not sure how to get there.

Whether you're volunteer-led, an executive director flying solo, or building your first fundraising team, the path to sustainable fundraising growth isn't always clear.

In this episode, we break down the real stages of fundraising growth and what is required at each stage – not just in terms of fundraising strategy, but in terms of systems, organizational culture and capacity building.

We're talking about:

• The 4 key stages of fundraising growth (and what to focus on at each stage)
• Why fundraising success depends on alignment across your entire organization
• What it means to invest in a culture of philanthropy that supports fundraising efforts
• Common traps like unrealistic fundraising hiring expectations, weak infrastructure, and the myth of the "lone fundraiser"
• Real-life stories about how fundraising success leads to overwhelm – and practical ways to prevent burnout

We also dig into why financial reconciliation, donor database management, and clear team communication are just as critical as your fundraising plan – and why you might feel like you're spinning your wheels without these systems in place.

If you're navigating the messy middle, stuck between growing pains and big fundraising goals, this one's for you.

Resources and links: Check out host Cathy Mann on LinkedIn Download our Four Pillars of Fundraising Guide for free Book your Fundraising Growth Game Plan call Email us at [email protected] Subscribe to our email list Share this episode with a friend!

Podcast editing and post-production by: Daniella Sorrentino at Feral Culture Lab

Music: Intro and Outro Music is Fancy Free by Reveille at Soundstripe