Nonprofits know that digital engagement is essential, but too often, their marketing efforts feel disconnected—social media posts, emails, fundraising campaigns, and website updates can feel like separate pieces rather than a cohesive strategy.

Enter Neal Schaffer, a leading authority on digital transformation in sales and marketing, and author of the new book Digital Threads. Neal joins us to share how nonprofits can use this innovative marketing approach to create stronger relationships, better engagement, and more sustainable growth in the digital space.

In this episode, we discuss:
✅ What the Digital Threads concept is and why it matters
✅ How nonprofits can move beyond one-off marketing campaigns and create lasting engagement
✅ Why traditional digital marketing strategies no longer work as they once did
✅ Actionable steps to start weaving Digital Threads into your nonprofit’s outreach

Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or marketer, this episode will give you a new way to think about digital engagement and how to make it more effective.

Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!

Resources Mentioned:

• Neal Schaffer’s Digital Threads – Free Preview
• Neal’s Podcast: Maximize Your Social Influence
• PDCA Social

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Community foundations have long been the quiet force behind local philanthropy, but how can they step into the spotlight and inspire action on a national scale? In this episode I sit down with Peter Panepento, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Turn Two Communications and Elyse Hammett, Vice President, Marketing and Communications at Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta to discuss the groundbreaking Make More Possible campaign—an effort to create a true national brand for community foundations.

Peter shares insights on how social good organizations can align their messaging with their mission and values to better connect with audiences. He also dives into the power of strategic storytelling and why today’s donors need a fresh, engaging approach to philanthropy. If you're looking for ways to amplify your nonprofit’s message and make a greater impact, this conversation is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

• The role of community foundations in strengthening local and national philanthropy.
• How the Make More Possible campaign is changing the narrative around community foundations.
• Why storytelling is crucial in engaging modern donors and inspiring action.
• Strategies for aligning your organization’s messaging with mission and values.
• How nonprofits can elevate their visibility and influence through effective communication.

Resources and Links:

• For more information on Turn Two Communications the agency behind the campaign: https://www.turn-two.co/
• For more details on the Community Foundation Awareness Initiative and the “Make More Possible” campaign, visit MakeMorePossible.org.
• For more information on the Greater Atlanta Community Foundation: https://cfgreateratlanta.org/

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

What if the key to innovation isn’t following best practices—but seeing what others miss? I sit down with Rohit Bhargava, bestselling author, futurist, and expert in non-obvious thinking, to explore how nonprofit leaders can break free from conventional wisdom and discover fresh ideas. 

Rohit’s latest book, Non-Obvious Thinking: How to See What Others Miss, introduces a four-step framework (SIFT) to help leaders generate better ideas, uncover hidden insights, and rethink the way they work. We’ll discuss how nonprofits can apply these principles to fundraising, storytelling, innovation, and diversity & belonging—even with limited resources.

If you’re looking to think bigger, disrupt the status quo, and make your nonprofit stand out, this conversation is for you!

In This Episode, We Discuss:

✅ What “Non-Obvious Thinking” really means—and why it’s a game-changer for nonprofits
✅ The SIFT framework (Space, Insight, Focus, Twist) and how nonprofit leaders can use it to generate new ideas and innovative strategies
✅ How to stand out in fundraising, storytelling, and donor engagement with a fresh approach
✅ The power of observation—and how leaders can spot opportunities that others overlook
✅ Why diversity and belonging drive creativity—and how nonprofits can foster inclusion in non-obvious ways
✅ Actionable strategies for breaking out of conventional thinking—even with tight budgets and limited time

Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!

Resources and Links:

• 📖 Get Rohit’s new book → Non-Obvious Thinking: How to See What Others Miss
• 🌎 Follow Rohit & The Non-Obvious Company → www.nonobvious.com
• 📢 Connect with Rohit on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/rohitbhargava

🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.

That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!
Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Donor retention is more than just a fundraising metric—it’s the key to nonprofit sustainability. Yet, retention rates remain stubbornly low. In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Mercurio, Market Researcher at Bloomerang, to discuss the findings from their latest report, Mission Retainable: Research-Backed Strategies to Inspire Donor Loyalty.  

We explore:

• Why donors give but don’t always stay
• The biggest challenges in donor retention
• Strategies high-retention nonprofits use to build loyalty
• How technology, personalization, and transparency can improve donor engagement
• Actionable steps nonprofits can take to bridge the gap between donor expectations and nonprofit actions

Watch the LinkedIn Live recording here. 

Resources & Links

• 📄 Mission Retainable: Research-Backed Strategies to Inspire Donor Loyalty – Download the Report
• 📢 Learn more about Bloomerang
• 📩 Connect with Wendy Mercurio on LinkedIn

 🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.

That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!
Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

How do you get real people—especially those deeply embedded in their communities—to amplify your cause in a meaningful way? Traditional influencer marketing often focuses on celebrities, but micro influencers—everyday people with strong, trusted networks—are proving to be far more effective for building lasting engagement.

This week, we’re joined by Ryan Davis, Co-founder & COO of People First, a company that identifies, recruits, and manages content from diverse communities by blending technology with human organizing. Ryan shares how nonprofits, advocacy groups, and mission-driven brands can tap into micro influencer marketing at scale to reach the right audiences with the right message.

We’ll discuss:

✅ The difference between traditional influencer marketing and precision micro influencer marketing
✅ Why smaller, community-based influencers have more impact than celebrity endorsements
✅ How People First combines technology and human organizers to build large-scale grassroots campaigns
✅ Best practices for nonprofits looking to leverage influencer marketing effectively

If your organization wants to reach more people with authentic, community-driven messaging, this episode is for you!

Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!

Links and Resources

• People First Website
• The Month In Digital

🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.

That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!
Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Today, instead of our regular program, I wanted to play an episode from a show I think you'll love. I'm talking about System Catalysts, a podcast about the incredible people who are fixing the broken systems that run the world. 

In this episode, English Sall talks to the people behind One Acre Fund, an organization that supports smallholder farmers in Africa through a brilliant social enterprise model. They discuss how to build trust across sectors, something I think all social entrepreneurs should learn to do. 

If you like what you hear, don’t forget to follow the link in the show notes to subscribe to System Catalysts and listen to more episodes. Hope you enjoy it!

If you like what you hear, don’t forget to follow this link to subscribe to System Catalysts and listen to more episodes:

https://lnk.to/nonprofitnationsc

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

The landscape of nonprofit fundraising events is evolving rapidly in 2025. With the return of in-person gatherings, the rise of digital engagement, and changing donor expectations, how can nonprofits design events that maximize impact and financial success?

In this episode, we sit down with Samantha Swaim, co-host of The Fundraising Elevator podcast and 20 year consultant to nonprofit fundraising events, to explore the latest trends shaping nonprofit events this year. Drawing on decades of experience in event strategy, storytelling, and fundraising, she shares insights on:

✅ Why in-person events are making a strong comeback
✅ How nonprofits can balance virtual, hybrid, and live events
✅ Data-driven strategies for maximizing event ROI in 2025
✅ The role of social media in donor engagement and fundraising
✅ How to counteract donor fatigue and declining participation rates
✅ The growing trust in nonprofits—and how organizations can build on it

Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, event planner, or fundraiser looking to future-proof your event strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate 2025’s fundraising landscape.

🎙️ Subscribe & Leave a Review!

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help more nonprofit professionals discover the show!

Links and Resources

• 🎧 Listen to The Fundraising Elevator podcast: https://elevatenonprofit.com/podcasts/
• 📌 Learn more about Swaim Strategies: https://www.swaimstrategies.com
• 📖 Swaim Strategies Substack
• Elevate Conference March 12-13, 2025

🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.

That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!
Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Your website is one of the most powerful tools your nonprofit has—but is it actually working for you? Too often, nonprofit websites are cluttered, confusing, or missing key elements that drive engagement, donations, and action.

In this episode, David Hartstein, co-founder of Wired Impact, shares expert insights on how nonprofits can build a website that is clear, compelling, and built to convert. Whether you’re launching a new site or improving an existing one, this conversation will help you create a website that serves your mission effectively.

We’ll cover:

✔️ The ideal role a website should play for a nonprofit today
✔️ The biggest mistakes that hurt nonprofit websites (and how to fix them)
✔️ How to structure your site to engage visitors and drive action
✔️ What every nonprofit should know about accessibility and usability
✔️ How to plan a website project so it runs smoothly

If your website feels outdated, overwhelming, or just isn’t helping you reach your goals, this episode is for you!

Resources & Links:

• https://wiredimpact.com/nation 
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidhartstein/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/wired-impact/

🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.

That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!
Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

In a world where burnout is the norm and rest is often seen as a luxury, how can changemakers sustain their well-being while making an impact? Meico Marquette Whitlock—a workplace well-being strategist, mindfulness teacher, and recovering workaholic—joins us to explore how mission-driven professionals can prioritize self-care without guilt and create a culture of well-being in their organizations.

We dive deep into:
✔️ Reconnecting to Your WHY when the work feels overwhelming
✔️ Creating a sustainable culture of well-being at work (beyond wellness perks)
✔️ Self-care strategies for challenging times—even when resources are tight
✔️ Navigating social impact grief and processing the emotional weight of change-making
✔️ Digital well-being in a hyperconnected world—how to stay engaged without burning out

If you’re struggling to balance mission and mental health, this episode is for you.

Hit play now, then Subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!

Watch the LinkedIn Live video recording. 

Meico Marquette Whitlock (he/him) is the founder and CEO of Mindful Techie and a certified trauma-informed mindfulness teacher. As a recovering workaholic and former nonprofit and government techie, he helps leaders and teams improve their well-being so they can increase their well-doing. He’s the author of How to Thrive When Work Doesn’t Love You Back and The Intention Planner and has worked with organizations like the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Cigna, and Greenpeace. His insights have been featured on ABC News, Fox 5, and Radio One. Outside of work, Meico is a former triathlete, salsa dancer, and maker of the world’s best vegan chili!

🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.

That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!
Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

As AI continues to reshape industries—including the nonprofit sector—how can we ensure that technology serves people, rather than the other way around? 

In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, we dive into the intersection of artificial intelligence and human-centered work with Tim Lockie, founder of The Human Stack and creator of the AI for Anyone course. With over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit technology space, Tim has helped organizations transition from being tech-resistant to tech-resilient.

Tim shares his insights on leveraging AI in a way that enhances human connection, decision-making, and impact. Whether you're skeptical of AI or eager to integrate it into your work, this conversation will provide practical strategies for maintaining a people-first approach in an increasingly digital world.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why AI is a tool, not a replacement for human connection
• How nonprofits can use AI without losing their core mission
• The biggest challenges organizations face when adopting AI
• Practical tips for using AI ethically and effectively
• Insights from Tim’s AI for Anyone course and how it empowers people to engage with AI confidently

About Tim Lockie:

Tim Lockie is a nonprofit technology expert and the founder of The Human Stack, an organization dedicated to helping nonprofits develop tech resilience. He created AI for Anyone, a course designed to make AI accessible to people at all technical levels. With a background as a former Salesforce MVP and Microsoft Partner, Tim has guided thousands of professionals in using technology to create positive social impact.

Resources & Links:

• Tim Lockie’s Website: The Human Stack
• AI for Anyone Course: Enroll here
• Connect with Tim on LinkedIn: Tim Lockie on LinkedIn
• Follow The Human Stack on Twitter: @TheHumanStack
• Cassidy: https://www.cassidyai.com/?via=thehumanstack

🪷🪷 This episode sponsored by Bloomerang! 🪷🪷

What if we named things for what they're not? We'd give teachers non-apples and fly non-cars.  Ridiculous, right? So why is your world-changing organization called a "nonprofit"? Truth is you're for-purpose. And the more you raise, recruit, and retain, the more good you can do.

That's where Bloomerang comes in. Bloomerang's Giving Platform is built for purpose, with easy-to-use tools and powerful insights that help you understand your donors better than ever and unleash generosity! (Slightly faster, more energetic) Imagine... spending less time on admin tasks and more time on what matters: your mission. Bloomerang customers raise an average of 26% more!
Ready to join them? Visit jcsocialmarketing.com/bloomerang to learn more and start making an even bigger impact.  

Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts