Backstory & Strategy

The Myth of Self-Sustaining Membership for Nonprofits


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“Set it and forget it” sounds great—until your budget falls off a cliff. In this episode, Yoni Greenbaum unpacks why sustainer programs aren’t as self-sustaining as we’d like to believe—and what it really takes to build reliable, recurring revenue.

Expect:

  • A clear-eyed look at the cash flow risks hidden inside monthly giving models
  • Practical strategies for bridging shortfalls and scaling smarter
  • A framework for shifting from myth to sustainability—without losing your footing

Whether you’re running a nonprofit, leading a newsroom, or chasing membership goals, this one’s for anyone rethinking the balance between automation and relationship-building.

🎧 Tune in for a grounded, strategic take on what sustainer programs actually require.


When budgets tighten, marketing is usually the first to go. But is it really the “extra” it’s made out to be? In this episode, Yoni Greenbaum explains why cutting marketing and essential tools can backfire—especially in nonprofit and public media organizations. It's a candid look at short-term savings vs. long-term strategy.

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Backstory & StrategyBy Yoni Greenbaum