62. Fearless Fundraising & Leadership Lessons
About this episode
I recently had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Steve Johns, the CEO of OneCause, and let me tell you, our conversation was nothing short of inspirational. It's like that perfect cup of coffee on a chilly morning, warm and invigorating.
In our latest episode of The Intentional Fundraiser Podcast, we journeyed through fearless fundraising, the transformational power of resilience, and the art of leadership. If you're ready to gain some practical insights and soak up the wisdom of a leader who's been through it all, this one's for you!
Resilience Amidst Adversity:
Picture this—a lotus flower, emerging from the muck and mud of a pond, eventually blossoming into a beautiful, radiant bloom. That's the symbolism Steve shared during our chat. It's a powerful reminder that even in our darkest times, we can find hope and transformation. We discussed how OneCause faced the challenges of the pandemic and emerged stronger and more inspired than ever.
Unlocking the Secrets of Fearless Fundraising:
Steve revealed the significance of focusing on existing donors and building deep, meaningful relationships. In fundraising, retaining donors is often more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. By using data, analytics, and AI, you can truly understand your donors and engage with them effectively. It's a game-changer for nonprofits aiming to boost retention rates and strengthen their impact.
The TIME Framework: Trust, Impact, Mission, and Ease:
Steve introduced the TIME framework, a powerful acronym that encapsulates the core aspects of successful fundraising. Building trust, showcasing the impact of donations, aligning with the mission, and providing an easy giving experience are the keys to donor retention and building a vibrant community of supporters.
Leadership: Inspire Others to Lead:
Steve's perspective on leadership is nothing short of awe-inspiring. He believes that great leaders inspire others to lead, and that's a philosophy we can all embrace. Whether you're in a technology company supporting nonprofits or directly in the nonprofit sector, there's a leader within you waiting to make a difference. Vulnerability, clear communication, and earning leadership through your daily actions are the foundation of effective leadership.
Embrace Patience:
Lastly, Steve shared some valuable advice for those just starting in the nonprofit world. Embrace patience and recognize that your journey is a long-distance event, not a sprint. As young professionals, we often pressure ourselves to achieve rapid results, but success takes time. Be patient and give yourself some grace.
So, are you ready to be inspired, uplifted, and equipped with the knowledge to transform your approach to fundraising and leadership? Then, my friends, it's time to tune in and listen to the full episode. Trust me, it's worth every minute of your time!
Let's embrace resilience, inspire others to lead, and create a future where our nonprofits flourish.
Our guest
Steve Johns, CEO, OneCause
"Being fearless is knowing we don't have all of the answers, but being willing to move forward and take action."
– Steve Johns, CEO, OneCause
Resources mentioned in this episode
Fearless: Leadership Lessons at the Crossroads by Steve Johns
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz
Raise: The Event Fundraising Conference
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