Best Nonprofit Capacity Building Podcasts (2025)

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Demystifying Tech and AI for Nonprofits, a Conversation with David Watters 45:25

1d ago45:25

45:25

Demystifying Tech & AI for Nonprofits with David Watters In this episode of the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits, host Matt Stockman dives into a topic that can feel overwhelming for new and small nonprofits: technology, automation, and AI. Matt's guest is David Watters, CEO of Simple and Engaging, a company …

1
Why We Keep Proving the Wrong Case for Arts Funding 6:32

2d ago6:32

6:32

Are you still trying to prove your value with ticket sales and attendance numbers—only to see funding stay flat or disappear altogether? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca exposes why the traditional case for arts funding no longer works—and what we must do differently if we want sustainable investment in the arts. You’ll hear how 20 …

1
Bridging the Gap: Blending Donor and Community-Centered Fundraising 14:43

3d ago14:43

14:43

Burned out by fundraising debates? I know how exhausting it feels when donor-centered vs. community-centered fundraising pulls us apart—while donor fatigue and burnout drag us down. But what if there’s a more human, powerful way forward? In this episode, I share how I learned to build bridges, not barriers, and saw philanthropy—and team morale—soar…

1
Custom GPTs for Nonprofits A Step-by-Step Guide by Maria Rio 16:54

3d ago16:54

16:54

About The Episode AI is here to stay, and many nonprofits are already embracing it. In this episode, we break down how you can set up your own custom GPT to save time, boost donor engagement, and make your team’s life a whole lot easier. Whether you're writing thank-you emails, managing volunteers, or brainstorming fundraising ideas, your nonprofit…

1
Episode 191: Why should funders invest in grantee communications capacity? 19:07

9d ago19:07

19:07

What does it look like when a foundation goes beyond grants to strengthen nonprofits? Ally Dommu, director of service development, and Brittany DeNovellis, capacity building program manager, at the T. Rowe Price Foundation, share how communications capacity building can deepen impact at your organization.…

1
The 100 Million Impact Initiative: A Personal Vision & Invitation 13:05

9d ago13:05

13:05

Welcome to a special episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits" where Matt Stockman, your host, shares a deeply personal and inspiring vision for the future! We often talk about the 6 key areas of nonprofit success (Leadership, Development/Fundraising, Marketing, Programs & Services, Operations, and Fi…

1
People-First Leadership for Nonprofits with Marisa Tran and Maria Rio 25:40

10d ago25:40

25:40

Ever tried to juggle visionary ideas, tight budgets, and a team that spans every learning style under the sun? In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria sits down with management coach and EDI powerhouse Marisa Tran (they/them) to unpack what “people-first, consent-based leadership” really looks like when you’re running a small shop. Marisa is …

1
From Overwhelm to Opportunity: AI and the Modern Fundraiser 55:17

10d ago55:17

55:17

Curiosity beats fear—every single time. Ever felt like AI is just spinning faster than you can keep up? I’ve been there—overwhelmed by “the next big thing” while trying to deliver more, with less, for my organization. In my latest conversation with AI thought leader Nathan Chappell, I discovered game-changing ways to shift from anxiety to opportuni…

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Beyond the Big Gift: Building a Resilient Nonprofit with Consistent Support 18:50

14d ago18:50

18:50

In this episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," host Matt Stockman dives into two crucial, interconnected topics for your nonprofit's financial health: the incredible benefits of monthly giving programs and critical pitfalls to avoid with high-capacity donors. Discover how consistent support can provide peace of mind and predictability, and…

1
Honoring Voices: Building an Ethical Storytelling Culture in Nonprofits 46:45

16d ago46:45

46:45

We don't need more “poverty porn” in our fundraising. I used to think telling hard stories was the only way to move donors—but I was wrong. If you’ve ever felt uneasy asking clients for stories, or unsure if your consent process would stand up to scrutiny, you’re not alone. I sat down with ethical storytelling expert Carly Euler from MemoryFox to e…

1
Planned Giving and Community-Centric Fundraising with Chantelle Ohrling and Maria Rio 23:10

17d ago23:10

23:10

Good Works estimates that a staggering $280 billion in estate wealth is expected to flow into Canadian charities. That’s not a number small nonprofits can afford to overlook. Planned giving doesn’t have to be exclusive, intimidating, or tax-code-heavy. In this episode, we dive into how small nonprofits can approach planned giving in a way that’s eq…

1
Your Nonprofit's Backbone: CEO and Board Essentials with Special Guest Bob Lonac 26:20

21d ago26:20

26:20

Welcome to the Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits! In this episode, host Matt Stockman sits down with special guest Bob Lonac, a seasoned expert in nonprofit leadership with a remarkable career, including roles at Young Life, International Justice Mission, and CRISTA. Bob is also the author of "Live Large: Sev…

1
Episode 190: How can you move from self-care to collective care? 25:10

23d ago25:10

25:10

What if self-care wasn’t just personal but team-wide? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Lan To, senior consultant and executive coach at Community Resource Exchange (CRE), to examine CAREpacity, a powerful approach to organizational wellness and care-driven leadership.By Big Duck

1
Digital Heartbeats: Engaging Major Donors in a Virtual World 13:22

24d ago13:22

13:22

Are your donor relationships thriving—or just surviving? Most nonprofits rely on mass emails and generic updates—then wonder why major donors disappear. Here’s the truth: Connection isn’t about the channel. It’s about intentionality.. After 30+ years in fundraising, I’ve learned what actually works in a digital world: → Personalize every touchpoint…

1
Realistic fundraising goals: Budgeting for Nonprofits with Maria and Caitlin 26:20

24d ago26:20

26:20

Too many small nonprofits build their budgets on optimism alone, dreaming big without the strategy or infrastructure to back it up. This episode is all about why that’s a problem, and how to stop the cycle of setting fundraising goals that hurt more than they help. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit, Maria Rio and co-host Caitlin McBride get re…

1
Fundraising Psychology: Using Cognitive Biases for Good 18:09

1M ago18:09

18:09

Street fundraising teaches you more than grit, it teaches you the psychology of yes. Maria shares how to use these powers for good. In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria shares real-world insights from her time as a face-to-face fundraiser, where she learned the science and subtlety behind why people say yes. It’s about harnessing c…

1
Embracing the Subscription Model in Nonprofit Giving 59:09

1M ago59:09

59:09

Donor counts are dropping—even as giving hits record highs. This isn’t just a headline. It’s the reality I unpacked with Dave Raley on The Intentional Fundraiser podcast. We dove into why recurring giving is the bright spot in a shifting landscape—and why too many nonprofits still treat it like an afterthought. For years, I thought monthly giving w…

1
From Impact To Influence: Telling Your Nonprofit's Stories Well 19:41

1M ago19:41

19:41

Unlock the power of storytelling to transform your nonprofit's marketing! In this episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, host and nonprofit growth coach Matt Stockman dives deep into "From Impact to Influence: Telling Your Nonprofit's Stories Well". Discover why compelling stories create emotional connections, simplify complex ideas, and ins…

1
Episode 189: How can you get more out of your rebrand? 13:16

1M ago13:16

13:16

Learn how to make your nonprofit’s rebrand last. Farra Trompeter, co-director, and Sandy Zimmerman, design director, explore how nonprofits can go beyond the brand launch and learn how to bring your rebrand to life —and keep it thriving.By Big Duck

1
Drawing a Line Between Fundraiser and Donor 13:49

1M ago13:49

13:49

Ever felt like your donor relationships are turning into guilt trips? After nearly 30 years in major gifts, I’ve seen how easy it is for the line between professionalism and friendship to blur. One story still sticks with me: a fundraiser got so close to a donor, she couldn’t bring herself to ask for support. The result? The mission lost out. Here’…

1
Marketing Without Harm: How Nonprofits Can Communicate With Integrity 24:20

1M ago24:20

24:20

Marketing doesn’t have to mean manipulation. But for many small nonprofits, common practices like donor recognition, emotional appeals, and urgency-driven fundraising can unintentionally cause harm. In this episode, Maria and anti-oppressive marketer Natalia Sanyal unpack how to shift your messaging and methods without compromising your values or y…

1
Crafting Your Nonprofit's North Star: The Vision Statement 22:26

1M ago22:26

22:26

Are you building a nonprofit with lasting impact? Welcome back to "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits!" In this essential Part 2 episode, host Matt Stockman dives deep into the crucial, yet often misunderstood, nonprofit vision statement. Many people confuse mission and vision, but they serve distinct purp…

1
Nonprofit Leadership: Practical Tools to Reduce Burnout 23:48

2M ago23:48

23:48

Running a small nonprofit often means juggling strategy, people, programs, and inbox chaos, all while making what feels like a million decisions a day. If you’ve ever felt stuck between leading and just trying to keep up, this episode is for you. In this candid and insightful conversation, Maria chats with returning guest Veronica LaFemina about on…

1
Is Your Mission Statement Sabotaging Your Nonprofit? Crafting A Mission for Maximum Impact 20:52

2M ago20:52

20:52

Welcome to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast! In this foundational episode, your host Matt Stockman tackles the single most important reason most nonprofits fail—and it isn't a lack of funding. It's a lack of clarity. Your organization's mission statement is the bedrock of your success, influencing everything from leadership and fundraising to dail…

1
Episode 188: How can you grow midlevel donors? 20:55

2M ago20:55

20:55

What is a midlevel donor, and how do organizations define that? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Alia McKee, principal at Sea Change Strategies, to explore how nonprofits can engage midlevel donors and offer strategies on how to segment effectively, steward with intention, and recognize the long-term value of these supporters.…

1
Bold Fundraising During Tumultuous Times 16:03

2M ago16:03

16:03

Donor hesitation is NOT your cue to retreat. I’ve seen firsthand how economic storms can freeze even the boldest fundraisers—but I’ve also watched organizations thrive by leaning in, not pulling back. In my latest episode, I share real stories, actionable strategies, and a few hard-won lessons to help you fundraise with confidence—even when the gro…

1
Building a Fundraising Board 23:20

2M ago23:20

23:20

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Building a Fundraising Board Fundraising isn’t about money; it’s about PEOPLE. And some of your most powerful people? Your board. In this episode, we dive into the challenges small nonprofits face when trying to activate their boards around fundraising. From fear of asking to a total misunderstanding of what …

1
CapDev Compass Report 2024 Deep Dive #2: Educate & Empower the Future Workforce 56:58

2M ago56:58

56:58

Compass Reports: Navigating Findings from a Statewide Survey of Nonprofits and Funders CapDev conducted a first-of-its-kind statewide survey of nonprofits and funders in 2024 - Nonprofit Outlook - and has summarized its key findings in the Compass Report, released at the annual NC Center for Nonprofits Conference. Having gathered input on the resul…

1
Mastering Nonprofit Email: 10 Best Practices for Impactful Communication 20:32

2M ago20:32

20:32

Are your nonprofit's emails getting opened, read, and acted upon? In this essential episode of "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," host Matt Stockman dives deep into the art and science of effective email communication for startups, small, and growing nonprofits. Discover why email is far from dead in 2025 and how to leverage it to build a strong …

1
Ten Toes Down: Building Bold, Inclusive Philanthropy in Uncertain Times 40:04

2M ago40:04

40:04

Have you ever felt like your organization is stuck in the same old fundraising routines, even as the world around us demands more courage and authenticity? I’ve been there too. That’s why my recent conversation with the brilliant Maia McGill hit home—her story of moving from “checking the DEI box” to building truly inclusive philanthropy is both ey…

1
How to create a GREAT fundraising strategy for your small nonprofit 21:29

2M ago21:29

21:29

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. If you want to learn how my company helps nonprofits create a fundraising plan, this link will explain: https://www.gofurthertogether.ca/discoverycall How to create a GREAT fundraising strategy for your small nonprofit Every thriving nonprofit starts with a plan, not a guess. In this episode of The Small Nonp…

1
7-11-4: The Rule That Opens Donor Doors 13:20

2M ago13:20

13:20

In today’s crowded nonprofit landscape, simply having a worthy cause isn’t enough to break the curse of being ignored. Google’s groundbreaking research has revealed what fundraisers need to achieve before donors feel comfortable giving: the 7-11-4 rule. This framework isn’t just for businesses—it’s essential for nonprofits seeking to transform casu…

1
Episode 187: How can you shape your AI brand footprint? 18:32

2M ago18:32

18:32

How does AI perceive your nonprofit brand? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by George Weiner, founder and chief whaler at Whole Whale, to explore “AI brand footprints” and how to proactively shape your visibility in tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI search. They explore how traditional SEO is shifting and what you can do to revisit your con…

1
Fearless Fundraising Step #5: Mastering the Call To Action for Nonprofit Growth 16:16

2M ago16:16

16:16

Welcome to "The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast," where host Matt Stockman helps startup, small, and growing nonprofits build a strong foundation. In this episode, we tackle the #1 pain point for many: fundraising. Specifically, we’re honing in on Step 5 of the Fearless Fundraising Framework: The Action Step, and how it empowers you to invite others …

1
When Words Disappear: Leading with DEI in Our DNA 32:37

2M ago32:37

32:37

Across the country, DEI language is quietly being erased—from strategic plans to university websites. But if the words are gone, what remains? In this episode of ARTS Redefined, Angela Meleca sits down with a group of arts policy students from Miami University to explore what it means to lead with values when the language is no longer safe. Togethe…

1
The Slow Fundraising Movement: Depth Over Speed 48:01

2M ago48:01

48:01

In this episode of the Intentional Fundraiser podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with David Kravinchuk to talk about why philanthropy is so important for everyone. We also chatted about the upcoming Western Canada Fundraising Conference, and I loved hearing David describe what makes it so unique—from its warm, intimate community feel to th…

1
From $0 to $2M! Scaling Nonprofits & Building Economic Resilience with Quilen Blackwell 26:47

2M ago26:47

26:47

Wondering how to make millions for your nonprofit? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Quilen Blackwell, co-founder of Chicago Eco House and Southside Blooms, as he shares how sustainability and social enterprise can transform communities. Quilen discusses his journey from starting with zero funds to running a $2 million nonprofit. Learn how…

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Fearless Fundraising Step #4: Creating Urgency - Compelling Action Now! 12:46

2M ago12:46

12:46

Podcast Show Notes: The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small and Growing Nonprofits Episode Title: Fearless Fundraising Step #4: Creating Urgency - Compelling Action Now! Episode Summary: Welcome to another impactful episode of The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast! In this episode, host Matt Stockman dives deep into Step 4 of the Fearless …

1
Transforming Donor Relationships with Data-Driven Moves Management 15:45

2M ago15:45

15:45

Have you ever felt like you’re juggling donor relationships in the dark, hoping you don’t drop the ball? In this week’s episode, I share how a data-driven moves management process turned my fundraising chaos into clarity—and how one missed thank-you nearly cost us a loyal donor. You’ll hear real stories, practical tips, and a few fun surprises that…

1
DEI for Small Nonprofits: Getting REAL about Diversity, Equity & Inclusion with Michelle Okere 41:07

2M ago41:07

41:07

Does making your nonprofit feel inclusive seem impossible? Today, we're getting real about diversity, equity, and inclusion in our sector. Join host Maria Rio and Michelle Okere, an expert in nonprofit equity, diversity, and inclusion, as they discuss how communication and belonging play a crucial role in nonprofit success. Michelle shares her live…

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Fearless Fundraising Step #3: Mastering The Ask for Nonprofit Success! 12:59

3M ago12:59

12:59

Welcome to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast for Startup, Small, and Growing Nonprofits! Are you ready to build your nonprofit on a rock-solid foundation and create lasting impact? Join your host, Matt Stockman, in each episode as we dive deep into the 6 key areas essential for nonprofit success: Leadership, Fundraising, Marketing, Programs and Ser…

1
Episode 186: How should your nonprofit approach crisis communications? 22:49

3M ago22:49

22:49

When a crisis emerges, how should your nonprofit respond? Farra Trompeter, co-director, is joined by Joanna Brody, founder and president of Brody PR, to explore how nonprofits can prepare and navigate crises with strategy, empathy, and impact.By Big Duck

1
This Will Change Arts Funding Forever 34:54

3M ago34:54

34:54

If your organization serves 100 students, what happens to those students? In this episode, Alan Harrison, author of Scene Change, delivers a sobering truth: producing art is no longer enough. In a post-NEA world, funders will demand data, not anecdotes. We unpack: Why arts nonprofits are losing funding—and relevance The difference between teaching …

1
Fundraising on LinkedIn: Strategies for Small Nonprofits with Michelle Benson 32:34

3M ago32:34

32:34

How about turning your LinkedIn profile into a powerful fundraising tool? Join Maria Rio and LinkedIn expert, Michelle Benson, as they share actionable strategies for nonprofits to build their digital presence and attract funders via LinkedIn. In this episode, Michelle discusses how to create content that actually enagges donors and funders as well…

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Fearless Fundraising Step 2: Making Your Donor The HERO 11:46

3M ago11:46

11:46

Episode Title: Fearless Fundraising Step 2: Making Your Donor The HERO Host: Matt Stockman Episode Description: Welcome back to The Nonprofit Launch Plan Podcast, your essential resource for startup, small, and growing nonprofits. Hosted by Matt Stockman, this podcast provides nonprofit leaders with the frameworks, tools, and guidance needed for la…

1
Transforming Major Gifts: How ModernICG Is Shaping the Future of Fundraising 16:53

3M ago16:53

16:53

I’ve got some BIG news to share — something that could change the way you think about major gift fundraising! After 30 years in this field, I’ve seen our world shift in ways we never imagined: donor expectations are evolving, technology is accelerating, and the challenges we face are more complex than ever. Imagine standing at the intersection of l…

1
Why forced office returns backfire (and what smart leaders do instead) 21:19

3M ago21:19

21:19

Liked this episode? Have an idea? Send us a text HERE :) Subscribe for more episodes on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Mandatory office returns are back but are they actually helping us work better? In today's episode, we get real about task masking, quiet quitting, and the push-pull tension around remote work that every fundraiser and nonprofit leader…

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Episode 185: How can you approach AI with an equity lens? 25:07

3M ago25:07

25:07

Are you curious about using AI without compromising your values? In this episode, Farra Trompeter, co-director, chats with Meena Das, founder of Namaste Data, to unpack findings from the AI Equity Project and offer practical advice for nonprofits navigating this evolving technology.By Big Duck

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Beyond the Thank-You: Transforming Major Donors into Lifelong Partners 17:04

3M ago17:04

17:04

Have you ever wondered why some major donors become lifelong champions while others quietly slip away? After nearly three decades in fundraising, I’ve learned that the answer lies in how we steward those relationships-not just with a thank-you, but with genuine, ongoing care. In this episode, I’ll share the real-life story of how one intentional st…

1
Major Gift Fundraising with Emma Lewzey 31:50

3M ago31:50

31:50

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with major gifts expert, Emma Lewzey, to bust myths, shift mindsets, and bring some much-needed clarity (and courage!) to one of fundraising’s most misunderstood areas. Whether you’re in a small shop or a national organization, this episode will remind you: you don’t need to be perfect…

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Nonprofit Capacity Building Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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