Test Your Niche with These 5 Questions

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

40:54

Taxes, Voting, Recycling—oh my! After navigating this jungle of grown-up responsibilities together, we're taking a quick summer breather to recharge our adulting batteries. But before we temporarily hang up our responsible pants, join us for this special episode packed with our favorite kernels of wisdom from the season so far AND get an exclusive preview of the fresh adulting adventures awaiting you when Grown-Up Stuff returns in late summer! Think of this episode as your adulting victory lap—complete with confetti and zero paperwork required! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

about a year ago 20:54

MP3•Episode home

There’s one thing the most successful social impact orgs get right, every time.

They truly define and own a niche.

Owning a niche as a social impact brand is probably one of the most important — but least understood — superpowers to further your mission.

When we help our clients define and own a niche, they:

↳ More easily drive engagement and action for their mission

↳ Build capacity and become more effective with their existing resources

↳ Reduce friction in securing donations and growing their revenue

↳ Build a stronger culture and clarity of purpose for their team

But owning a niche is easier said than done. And your niche should evolve over time.

Where you started might not be right for where you are today — or more importantly where you need to be tomorrow.

In today’s episode of Designing Tomorrow, Jonathan outlines 5 simple but powerful questions that you can ask yourself to test your social impact niche.

If you’re trying to find your niche, or ready to make a pivot, these questions can help you make sure you’re putting your ideas to the test.

Episode Highlights

Question 1: What Specific Problem Do You Solve? [01:41]
- Explore the importance of clearly defining the problem your organization solves and ensuring it's communicated effectively.
Question 2: Who Experiences the Pain If You Disappear? [06:12]
- Discuss the significance of understanding your primary audience and the implications of your absence on them.
Question 3: What Is Your Unique Solution? [09:30]
- Examine how to articulate your unique approach to solving the problem and how it differs from other solutions.
Question 4: What Are the Ramifications of Not Solving the Problem? [12:44]
- Consider the impact of not addressing the problem and how it can help refine your organization’s focus.
Question 5: Who Are Your Competitors or Collaborators? [15:07]
- Analyze your position relative to competitors and how understanding this can help strengthen your niche.

Resources:

*** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you!

We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com

Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

58 episodes

#Business #Marketing #Eric Ressler #Non-Profit #Podcasting Education #Social Impact #Nonprofit #Social Enterprise #NGO #Brand #Messages

Test Your Niche with These 5 Questions

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

There’s one thing the most successful social impact orgs get right, every time.

They truly define and own a niche.

Owning a niche as a social impact brand is probably one of the most important — but least understood — superpowers to further your mission.

When we help our clients define and own a niche, they:

↳ More easily drive engagement and action for their mission

↳ Build capacity and become more effective with their existing resources

↳ Reduce friction in securing donations and growing their revenue

↳ Build a stronger culture and clarity of purpose for their team

But owning a niche is easier said than done. And your niche should evolve over time.

Where you started might not be right for where you are today — or more importantly where you need to be tomorrow.

In today’s episode of Designing Tomorrow, Jonathan outlines 5 simple but powerful questions that you can ask yourself to test your social impact niche.

If you’re trying to find your niche, or ready to make a pivot, these questions can help you make sure you’re putting your ideas to the test.

Episode Highlights

Question 1: What Specific Problem Do You Solve? [01:41]
- Explore the importance of clearly defining the problem your organization solves and ensuring it's communicated effectively.
Question 2: Who Experiences the Pain If You Disappear? [06:12]
- Discuss the significance of understanding your primary audience and the implications of your absence on them.
Question 3: What Is Your Unique Solution? [09:30]
- Examine how to articulate your unique approach to solving the problem and how it differs from other solutions.
Question 4: What Are the Ramifications of Not Solving the Problem? [12:44]
- Consider the impact of not addressing the problem and how it can help refine your organization’s focus.
Question 5: Who Are Your Competitors or Collaborators? [15:07]
- Analyze your position relative to competitors and how understanding this can help strengthen your niche.

Resources:

Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link.

We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com

Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.

58 episodes

#Business #Marketing #Eric Ressler #Non-Profit #Podcasting Education #Social Impact #Nonprofit #Social Enterprise #NGO #Brand #Messages

All episodes

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
What's your truth? 5:02

4 days ago5:02

5:02

In this episode, I’m exploring a question that’s been showing up in a lot of our recent work — and in my own thinking: What is your truth? Links: 📝 Read the full essay version on our new Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/eressler/p/what-is-your-truth?r=8rkfl&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=podcast&showWelcomeOnShare=true Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
The Power (and Pitfalls) of Partnerships 30:10

18 days ago30:10

30:10

Everyone loves the idea of collaboration — but real partnership? That’s harder. From mismatched visions to unclear roles, even the most well-intentioned alliances can go sideways fast. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan break down what makes partnerships work — and what to watch out for before saying yes. ➔ The five elements every partnership needs to succeed (straight from the Collective Impact framework). ➔ The one conversation to have before committing to collaborate. ➔ How to recognize when you’re serving the mission — and when you’re just serving the relationship. ➔ Why a shared measurement system matters more than you think. ➔ The quiet risk of over-partnering — and how to protect your team from burnout. If you’ve ever asked yourself, Should we partner? , this episode will give you the clarity, language, and strategy to answer with confidence. Don’t just partner for the sake of it. Partner for impact. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Realistic measurement: Start small, build from there [00:54] Why collective impact matters—and when it works [02:36] Weekly partnerships: A look inside nonprofit realities [03:51] Ingredient #1 – Common Agenda: Avoiding false alignment [06:14] Ingredient #2 – Shared Measurement: Keep it simple and aligned [11:56] Leading vs. lagging indicators in collaborative efforts [11:56] Ingredient #3 – Mutually Reinforcing Activities: Define your role [14:57] Ingredient #4 – Continuous Communication: Keep the momentum [15:44] Ingredient #5 – Backbone Support: Ownership drives sustainability [19:31] Human friction: Ego, credit, and collaboration fatigue [20:23] When to pursue partnerships—and when not to [22:54] Self-awareness over scope creep: Do what you do best [26:35] Group project syndrome: Don’t say yes if it’s not a win-win [27:59] Should partnerships have an exit clause? Resources: Article - “Collective Impact” by John Kania & Mark Kramer - Stanford Social Innovation Review Article - Turning Stats Into Stories: Supercharge Your Social Enterprise’s Proof of Impact Article - Defeat Mission Creep and Master Your Nonprofit's Messaging to Maximize Impact Article - Are You Using Your Power or Giving it Away? Podcast - Are You Bold Enough To Lead The Conversation? Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
How to Build a Strong Case for Support 28:00

5 weeks ago28:00

28:00

Too many social impact leaders step into donor meetings with a bold vision — but an unclear case for why anyone should support it. Your case for support isn’t just a fundraising tool — it’s a strategic asset that can align your messaging, mobilize your team, and inspire serious investment in your mission. But only if you get it right. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan walk through a 5-part framework to help you build a clear, compelling case that connects with hearts and minds — and opens doors. ➔ Why most cases for support skip the one question every donor is asking. ➔ The five ingredients of a persuasive narrative (and how to use them beyond fundraising). ➔ How to tailor your pitch without losing your integrity. ➔ Why “bragging” is essential — and how to do it without turning people off. ➔ A practical way to turn your case into a year-long content and management tool. Whether you’re prepping for a major campaign or just trying to sharpen your story, this episode will help you rethink your approach — and give your supporters a reason to say yes. Don't just ask for support. Make the case. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Why your case for support must start with clarity [01:24] Why this isn’t just for capital campaigns [02:40] Step 1 – The Why [04:27] Step 2 – The Vision [07:44] Step 3 – The Strategy [10:30] Step 4 – Credibility [12:53] Brag or stay humble? Striking the right tone with funders [14:27] Step 5 – The Ask [21:42] Building a forecasting pipeline for major gifts [24:13] Mapping donor motivations to maximize engagement [25:40] Bonus: Turn your case for support into your content strategy Resources: Better Brand Storytelling Rep. Katie Porter's Messaging Tactics Campaign Messaging for Major Donors vs. Grassroots Supporters Supercharge Your Social Enterprise’s Proof of Impact Your Theory of Change isn't finished until your Grandma can understand it. Change you make Your Organization’s Credibility Rests on Your Website Metrics or impact storytelling What to Do When Funders Say "No" Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Is Our Obsession with Efficiency Backfiring? 27:19

7 weeks ago27:19

27:19

We’re constantly told to “do more with less” — but what if that’s the wrong goal altogether? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan challenge the traditional definition of efficiency and unpack why it can be a trap for social impact organizations. From donor pressure to staff burnout, they explore how the pursuit of efficiency often undermines effectiveness — and what to prioritize instead if you're serious about sustainable, meaningful impact. ➔ Why efficiency and innovation often live at opposite ends of the spectrum. ➔ How serving the process can slowly kill your mission. ➔ What to say when funders fixate on overhead (and how to shift the conversation to impact). ➔ A smarter definition of efficiency: spending time on the right work, not just more work. ➔ What systemic inefficiency looks like — and how to fix it without burning everything down. If you're feeling the pressure to cut corners, over-optimize, or stretch your team thin in the name of “efficiency,” this episode will help you step back, reframe the problem, and refocus on what actually moves the needle. Don’t chase efficiency. Build for effectiveness. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Redefining efficiency: Doing the right thing at the right time [01:49] Innovation vs. optimization [03:30] The cultural obsession with optimization—and its dangers [05:35] Real-world ad example: Efficiency as a byproduct of innovation [06:32] Smart systems vs. busywork: What efficiency should actually look like [08:07] The trap of measurable efficiency—and the loss of trust [09:08] “Serving the process”: The red flag that your culture may be off track [11:44] Bureaucracy, balance, and unintended harm [14:33] The overhead myth and how to push back effectively [18:16] When “efficiency” undermines your people [21:45] Sector-wide inefficiency [24:57] Effectiveness as the healthier north star [26:25] Diminishing returns: Knowing when to stop optimizing Resources: In Defense of Moonshots Breaking the Starvation Cycle Marketing Isn’t Overhead Are You Using Your Power? MacKenzie Scott Proved Unrestricted Funding Works Supercharge Your Mission Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Storytelling For Complex Missions 23:43

9 weeks ago23:43

23:43

Too many social impact organizations are stuck trying to explain everything they do — and in the process, end up saying nothing that sticks. When your mission is complex, how do you distill it into a clear, compelling story that actually resonates? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan dig into the storytelling struggles that come with multifaceted missions — and offer a practical framework to help you cut through the noise, focus your narrative, and connect more powerfully with your audiences. ➔ The one question every leader should ask before blaming the messaging. ➔ How to tell an emotionally compelling story without oversimplifying your mission. ➔ Why most orgs don’t have a storytelling problem — they have a focus problem. ➔ What to do when “just one story” feels impossible. ➔ A simple test to make sure your message really matters to anyone outside your team. If your communications are feeling muddy, scattered, or just too complex to explain, this episode will help you zoom out, refocus, and tell a story people will actually remember — and care about. Don't try to say it all. Say the one thing that matters most. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - The complexity trap: “How do we take these complex missions and weave simple, compelling emotional narratives?” [01:33] - First things first: Is this actually a storytelling issue—or a lack of focus? [02:50] - The everything-all-at-once problem: How pride in breadth can dilute clarity. [04:15] - Non-profit existentialism: “What am I doing with my life?” as a strategic tool. [05:44] - The theory of change litmus test: Can you explain how your work creates change? [09:11] - The problem behind your problem: Defining your challenge before crafting your message. [10:33] - Unique qualifications: What makes your organization the right one to do this work? [13:24] - The “So What” test: Distill your purpose with this 3-step drill-down exercise. [15:25] - You don’t need to tell it all: The danger of overexplaining. [18:34] - Different stories for different audiences: Why stakeholder-specific storytelling is essential. [21:18] - Start with the simplest story: Lead with what’s most intuitive—expand later. Resources: Better Brand Storytelling Defeat Mission Creep Supercharge Your Mission Your Theory of Change Messaging Framework Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Pros and Cons of Major Donors 34:14

11 weeks ago34:14

34:14

Major donor funding can feel like the holy grail of nonprofit growth — big checks, deep relationships, and potentially game-changing support. But what’s often left out of the conversation? The risk. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan dive into the real tradeoffs of major donor programs — the power dynamics, the mission drift moments, and the long runway it takes to build trust at scale. Whether you're building from scratch or recalibrating your fundraising strategy, this candid conversation will help you weigh the potential upside and the pitfalls. ➔ When a major gift is actually too costly to accept ➔ How to spot — and avoid — single points of failure in your revenue model ➔ The true time horizon for major donor ROI (and why it’s rarely fast) ➔ How to handle “friendly pressure” from high-influence funders ➔ Practical steps to build a resilient, aligned donor pipeline If you’re wondering whether a major donor strategy is worth the effort — or how to manage the one you already have — this episode gives you the clarity, caution, and confidence to move forward wisely. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Major donors: blessing or burden? Jonathan reflects on a recent transformative gift and what it reveals. [02:45] - When major donors help (or hinder) the mission. [04:56] - Why strings aren’t always visible, and what to do about it. [07:52] - Would you want this donor on your team if they weren’t giving? [10:00] - The real cost and timeline of launching a major donor program. [12:35] Donor, grant, or individual giving? Eric and Jonathan weigh the most scalable strategies. [15:28] Unrestricted funding, or instability? The tradeoff that comes with flexibility. [21:30] - What happens when a major donor exits? [24:44] - The long tail and payoff of building grassroots support. [26:51] - How to lead a major donor program with intentionality. Resources: Article - How to Differentiate Campaign Messaging for Major Donors vs. Grassroots Supporters Article - How to Create the Conditions for Sustainable Revenue Article - Top 5 Features Your Nonprofit Needs in a Donor Management Platform Article - Going All In: A Digital-First Guide to Sustained Nonprofit Fundraising Article - Build a Healthy Social Impact Community with these 5 Pillars Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Designing Impact Reports That Actually Work 31:28

13 weeks ago31:28

31:28

Annual reports shouldn’t feel like an obligation — they should feel like a gift. But for too many nonprofits, impact reporting is still stuck in the past: flat, uninspired, and quickly forgotten. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan unpack how to rethink your approach to reporting — and turn your annual impact story into one of your organization’s most powerful strategic tools. ➔ The secret ingredient of high-performing reports. ➔ The real ROI of a well-designed impact report — and how to measure success beyond the PDF. ➔ A simple way to start small: what a minimum viable impact report looks like (and why it’s enough). ➔ How digital and physical formats can work together to spark deeper connection with supporters. ➔ Why your report is only as good as your distribution strategy — and how to plan one that delivers. If your reports are starting to feel more like homework than momentum-builders, this episode will help you reframe the process — and unlock new energy, clarity, and results from one of your most overlooked assets. Don’t just report impact. Design it. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Why impact reports must go beyond check-the-box compliance. [01:43] - Design choices, storytelling moments, and a surprising community favorite. [04:34] - Jonathan opens up about why even EDs can dread it—and how to reframe it. [06:16] - Why that one piece matters more than you think. [07:41] - Conversation starters, trust builders, and supporter affirmation. [10:57] Why your report must have a digital component and how to make print feel like a premium experience. [14:34] - When to go immersive, when to go tangible. [17:25] Build your report all year long. Treat stories and metrics as ingredients, not afterthoughts. [21:03] - Personalized impact reports are the new frontier. [23:32] - Why “post and pray” doesn’t work, and what to do instead. [26:09] - How chunking up content triples conversions. Resources: Case Study - Equality Fund Article - The Benefits of a Digital Annual Report Article - How to Prepare for Your Digital Annual Report Article - Prove it or Lose it: Why Proof of Impact Matters in the Social Impact Space Article - Turning Stats Into Stories: Supercharge Your Social Enterprise’s Proof of Impact Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
How to Sell a Vision Before It’s Real 33:48

15 weeks ago33:48

33:48

Social impact leaders are visionaries — but getting others to see what you see isn’t easy. When your work hasn’t caught up to your ambitions, how do you win over funders, staff, and partners who need proof before they commit? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan explore what it really takes to sell a bold new vision — even when the work is still taking shape. ➔ Why internal conviction is the first — and most underrated — step to building external trust. ➔ How to frame your future vision when your current reality doesn’t match it (yet). ➔ The power of showing instead of telling — and what that looks like with no budget. ➔ Why funders are often more excited by possibility than proof — and how to use that to your advantage. ➔ A real-world playbook for prototyping your vision, building buy-in, and navigating the messy middle. If you're leading through change, launching something new, or reinventing your organization’s direction, this conversation will help you craft a message that inspires belief — before the results are in. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to sell what’s possible. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Eric and Jonathan kick off with a definition that goes beyond mission statements. [01:12] - Jonathan shares real talk about leading through transition at the Seymour Center. [02:13] - Eric maps the vision lifecycle from insight to realization. [05:13] - Why writing one too early can backfire—and what to do instead. [07:02] - Eric recounts Cosmic’s pivot to social impact and what it took to bring his team along. [11:48] - Jonathan’s tips for gaining internal and external buy-in. [14:48] - Funders and stakeholders appreciate realism—if you frame it right. [18:35] - A smart messaging pivot that worked for Seymour Center. [19:56] - How DIY prototypes and low-budget demos helped seed a big vision. [24:17] - A thought-provoking exchange on fluidity, revision, and what comes next. [28:42] - Two different leadership styles—and how to make both work for you. Quotes: "It's a vision of a new way of what could be, but what is not yet true." – Eric Ressler [00:00] "You as the executive… you really, truly, deeply in yourself believe in the potential." – Jonathan Hicken [04:51] "Vision and mission statements sometimes get an outsized amount of attention… I'd rather see more time on having a compelling vision." – Eric Ressler [05:13] "The single best way to sell a vision when you’re not delivering yet? Start prototyping." – Jonathan Hicken [19:56] Resources: Article - How Your Purpose, Vision, and Mission Can Guide Better Brand Storytelling Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Eric’s 3-Part Content Strategy That Works Every Time 31:41

17 weeks ago31:41

31:41

Nonprofit leaders know storytelling matters — but many are missing a critical opportunity to move hearts, shift narratives, and deepen support. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan pull back the curtain on why so much nonprofit content falls flat — and how a simple three-step framework can radically transform the way you communicate your mission. ➔ Why "naming the problem" is more powerful — and more complicated — than you think. ➔ The common trap organizations fall into when showcasing impact (and how to avoid it). ➔ How to frame your future vision in a way that rallies donors, staff, and community — even if your mission takes decades to fulfill. ➔ The surprising link between consistent storytelling and year-end fundraising success. ➔ Real-world examples from nonprofits scaling their credibility and influence through powerful, human-centered stories. If your content feels scattered, stale, or disconnected from your bigger mission, this episode will give you the tools and mindset to rebuild trust, reignite engagement, and turn passive audiences into active believers. Don’t just tell stories. Shape the future you’re fighting for. Tune in now. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Why “the problem” isn’t always one thing [01:51] Intro to the 3-step content strategy : Problem, impact, vision [02:39] Naming and framing the problem : It’s more powerful than you think [05:10] Problem sets, not problems : How to tell different layers of the same story [07:11] Scale matters : Matching problem scope to your audience [08:09] Real-world example : How 35 Mile Foundation names the digital divide [10:53] Step 2 – Share your impact : Why it’s essential (and how to go deeper) [13:08] The “So what?” test : Making your impact stories hit harder [16:22] Human + data : Layering emotional and statistical storytelling [18:23] Why impact storytelling builds trust [20:15] From anecdotes to narratives : Connecting the dots for your audience [21:47] The results : Jonathan shares how this shifted fundraising outcomes [24:15] Step 3 – Share your vision : Moving from vague statements to bold future casting [25:42] Vision isn’t a promise—it’s a rallying cry [28:09] Make it visceral : Help people imagine your world [29:50] It’s not “the” vision—it’s visions, plural [30:42] The takeaway : Beat the drum until you're bored Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
What to Do When Funders Say "No" 27:59

19 weeks ago27:59

27:59

Not all “no’s” are equal—and if you’re in fundraising, you know that firsthand. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan unpack the three types of objections every social impact leader will face: the silent no, the vague no, and the hard no. They explore why each shows up, what it’s really signaling, and how to respond in a way that transforms rejection into relationship. Whether you're navigating donor hesitancy or partner pushback, you'll walk away with practical tools to shift conversations from confusion and avoidance to clarity, trust, and—yes—sometimes even a yes. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - The 3 types of objections : Silence, vagueness, and direct no’s [01:42] - A real-world win : How reframing a donor’s “no” unlocked major funding [03:03] - Ghosted? Strategies for re-engaging silent prospects [05:59] - Automated follow-ups that work : Respectful nudging and content-driven touches [07:19] - Low-effort asks : Using newsletters to reignite dormant conversations [08:22] - The “breakup email” that gets responses : Permission to say no [10:43] - Why silence feels personal—and how to shift your mindset [12:04] - Vague rejections : How to politely mine for clarity [13:08] - Exact language that invites honest feedback [15:17] - Is it just the money? A powerful question to uncover root issues [17:43] - When “scaling down” won’t serve you—or them [19:17] - Invite donors into partnership : What funders really want [21:07] - Objections as insights : What “no” reveals about your positioning [22:19] - Flip your mindset : Think 70% about what they want to hear [24:06] - Fit-first fundraising : 3 guiding questions before accepting money [25:19] - Mission creep warning : Why not all dollars are worth it [27:20] - The takeaway : Always try to get to a direct “no”—and know why it happened Quotes: “You have to become an irresistible fundee—for them.” –Jonathan Hicken [22:32] “Funders want to make an impact on something they care about. Period.” –Eric Ressler [23:25] Resources: Article - Want Foundations to Fund Your Work? Speak Their Language. Here's How. Article - How to Embrace (and Own) Your Nonprofit's Digital Fundraising Article - 8 Reasons Why Donors Aren’t Giving on Your Nonprofit’s Website Article - Funders: Your Obligation to Social Impact Goes Beyond Giving Money Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
The Sector Is Shifting: Here's How to Lead 25:55

20 weeks ago25:55

25:55

Social impact leaders are scaling back, funding streams are evaporating, and public trust is eroding. In this candid kickoff to Season 4, Eric and Jonathan hold space for what’s really happening in the field—and why this moment demands courageous communication, community resilience, and reimagined leadership. This isn’t a time to shrink. It’s a time to show up . The surprising parallels to early COVID-era chaos (and how that can inform today’s crisis response) Why you might need to ‘scale back’ strategically—and how to do it without losing your sense of purpose. The key to rallying donors, partners, and staff using open communication and powerful impact stories. The #1 mistake leaders make when forced to let go of talented people (hint: it involves your support network) Whether you’re facing sudden federal cutbacks or seeking to maintain momentum in a tough environment, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you adapt without compromising your impact. Don’t let external forces derail your organization’s good work. Tune in now and learn how to protect your mission, inspire your team, and stay resilient. Even when the odds feel stacked against you. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - View from the field: What social impact leaders are experiencing right now [01:50] - The ripple effects of federal policy shifts: Retrenchment and risk mitigation [03:40] - “It feels like early COVID again”: Chaos, fear, and identity crisis in the sector [06:20] - The grift narrative: Online misinformation and the backlash against nonprofits [07:23] - Getting hyper-local: The strategic (and risky) pivot toward smaller spheres [08:38] - Unprecedented losses: Real-world stories of scale-downs and shutdowns [10:28] - Why the blame game backfires: Compassion over critique [13:17] - From freeze to activation: What separated resilient orgs during COVID [15:47] - "Now is the best time": Standing strong in your community [18:22] - A call to funders: Emergency support is urgently needed—again [19:25] - Action steps for leaders: Reconnect, recommit, and re-partner [21:34] - Leading through contraction: Compassionate downsizing and clarity of mission [23:53] - Over-communicating with intention: The power of transparency and storytelling Quotes: “Now is the best time to stand up for science… for a community that's trying to protect itself from a changing environment.” – Jonathan Hicken [00:15] “We need to be better at getting these stories out in a way that actually cuts through.” – Eric Ressler [07:07] “There’s almost this feeling that we’re not allowed to be successful or be optimistic right now.” – Jonathan Hicken [11:30] “Organizations that activated quickly—even imperfectly—came out stronger.” – Eric Ressler [13:50] “Start to prepare to help the people on your team land on their feet.” – Jonathan Hicken [22:25] Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Stuff We've Messed Up (and Learned From) 37:13

21 weeks ago37:13

37:13

To wrap Season 3, Eric and Jonathan are doing something different — and a little vulnerable. In this raw and unfiltered finale, they look back on the leadership decisions, strategic misfires, hiring blunders, and marketing missteps that didn’t go according to plan. No spin. No gloss. Just two founders owning their hardest lessons out loud. Why end the season like this? Because mistakes aren’t just part of leadership — they are leadership. If we want a social impact sector that embraces failure as fuel for growth, we have to start by telling the truth about what we've gotten wrong. So here it is. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Opening: “Today we're going to talk about all the shit we've messed up.” [01:35] Why talk about mistakes at all? [02:23] Jonathan’s board breakup [05:34] Eric’s accidental leadership path [08:04] Burnout and showing up as a leader [10:26] When design isn’t enough [13:28] Strategic blindspots [18:17] “I blind copied them.” [20:48] Firing with (or without) dignity [27:07] Going too wide in marketing [28:53] The cost of not marketing [33:30] When vision stalls Resources: Podcast - Rethinking Failure in Social Impact Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing - Discussion of MVS framework Podcast - Designing a Purpose and Strategy with Eric Ressler Article - Test Your Niche to Develop Your Organization’s Superpower Article - 8 Key Ingredients to Defining Your Social Impact Niche Article - How to Build a Next-level Content Strategy Article - A Guide to Social Impact Marketing Through Brand-building Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Jonathan’s Big Problem 32:34

22 weeks ago32:34

32:34

What do you do when your mission is evolving… but your brand, programs, and funding strategy haven’t caught up yet? In this episode, Jonathan brings a live challenge to the table: a bold new vision for the Seymour Center that could reposition it as a hub for climate solutions and STEM leadership — but it comes with branding risks, potential backlash, and major funding implications. Eric coaches him through the decision-making, exploring when to stay quiet, when to go big, and how to avoid mission creep without losing momentum. This is real-time strategy, storytelling, and nonprofit leadership — unfiltered. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Jonathan tees up a live strategy session — and asks Eric to coach him [01:12] Why the Seymour Center is shifting toward climate resilience [03:09] The dual problem: climate impact and STEM education gaps [05:49] What other groups can’t do — and where Seymour fits in [07:02] How anxiety around climate is shaping a new kind of science education [09:59] Is this a pivot, an evolution, or mission creep? [11:34] Program tweaks vs. a bigger vision shift — what's on the line [13:26] Fundraising, capital campaigns, and messaging trade-offs [15:44] The two-problem narrative — and how to avoid confusing funders [17:21] High school students as solution-makers (and a current gap) [18:25] Pilot vs. launch — the fear of going public too soon [21:00] Pushback: are we abandoning the ocean? [22:23] Dropping the term “climate change” — and why [23:00] What would Jonathan need to say “no” to? [24:25] The risk of staying the same — and the case for going bold [29:23] Why this is about relevance — not reinvention [30:14] Eric's honest advice: it’s time [31:12] “You’re not shooting from the hip anymore.” Resources: Seymour Marine Discovery Center Article - Test Your Niche to Develop Your Organization’s Superpower Article - 8 Key Ingredients to Defining Your Social Impact Niche Article - The #1 Mistake Social Impact Organizations Make in Their Digital Storytelling Article - 10 Tips for Building a Community Around Your Cause Article - Are You Bold Enough To Lead The Conversation? Podcast - How to Stop Planning and Start Doing - Discussion of MVS framework Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
How to Build a Sustainable Revenue Stream 43:19

23 weeks ago43:19

43:19

The funding landscape is shifting, and relying on the same revenue strategies that got you here may not be enough to take your organization to the next level. Many nonprofits and social enterprises struggle to generate enough revenue—not just to sustain their work, but to fully fund their missions and reinvest in long-term growth. So how do you build a revenue model that works? One that’s not just about survival, but about impact at scale? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan dive into how funding models are evolving, why earned revenue is becoming a bigger part of the equation, and how leaders can think more strategically about their revenue mix. They also explore the key trade-offs between major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships, and earned income, and how to determine the best fit for your organization. If you’re feeling stuck in the same fundraising cycle—or wondering how to make your revenue more sustainable—this conversation is for you. Episode Highlights: [00:00] Introduction – The funding landscape is shifting. Is your revenue strategy keeping up? [00:20] Why many orgs struggle to fully fund their mission – The hidden gap in nonprofit and social enterprise revenue [02:44] Earned revenue: The opportunity (and challenge) – Why this model is gaining traction [04:37] Is donating profits better than direct impact? – The pros and cons of different funding models [06:56] What we can learn from Patagonia – Mission-driven business models in action [09:35] Are social enterprises just businesses? – Finding the balance between impact and revenue [12:22] Authenticity vs. cause-washing – Why your origin story matters in funding decisions [15:30] Nonprofit revenue models: Expanding beyond traditional fundraising [18:31] Your revenue model needs to evolve – How to move beyond what’s worked in the past [21:25] The small donor vs. major donor dilemma – Who should you prioritize? [27:09] Building a stronger donor pipeline – How small donors can turn into major donors [30:22] The role of grants, corporate giving, and capital campaigns – Smart strategies for diversification [41:44] Five key questions to assess your funding strategy – What to ask before making a shift [42:23] Final thoughts – Funding models that drive long-term impact Resources: Article - 8 Successful Give-Back Models for Social Enterprises Article - Is the Buy-One-Give-One Model Dead? TOMS and the Future of Social Enterprises Article - How to Create the Conditions for Sustainable Revenue Listeners, now you can text us your comments or questions by clicking this link. *** If you liked this episode, please help spread the word. Share with your friends or co-workers, post it to social media, “follow” or “subscribe” in your podcast app, or write a review on Apple Podcasts. We could not do this without you! We love hearing feedback from our community, so please email us with your questions or comments — including topics you’d like us to cover in future episodes — at podcast@designbycosmic.com Thank you for all that you do for your cause and for being part of the movement to move humanity and the planet forward.…

Designing Tomorrow: Creative Strategies for Social Impact

1
Social Impact in the Era of Misinformation & Media Chaos 28:59

24 weeks ago28:59