A Legacy of Generosity

Season Four kicks off with fresh voices and new energy! Guest host Scott Nelson and MGPA President Joe Thiegs share their journeys, what drives their work, and resources available to MGPA members. ✨ Inside this episode: Why professional community matters in fundraising Unique challenges rural nonprofits face — and how to support them Resources and opportunities through MGPA 🎧 Press play to start...

Changing careers is never simple, but it can be transformative. Tony Mullen shares his leap from corporate sales into nonprofit development — and how planned giving training accelerated his success. ✨ Inside this episode: Lessons learned from making a bold career shift How planned giving skills add confidence and credibility Advice for newcomers finding their footing in fundraising 🎧 Listen now...

Not all donors are the same — and your communications shouldn’t be either. In this encore episode, Steve Boland explains how segmentation turns legacy donor outreach into powerful, personal connection. ✨ Inside this episode: Why segmentation is critical for planned giving How to tailor messaging to resonate with legacy donors Tips for cultivating donor relationships that open new doors 🎧 Press p...

What if funders and nonprofits worked from a foundation of trust? Kim Snyder of Excelsior Bay Group reveals how trust-based fundraising strengthens organizations and communities far beyond the dollars given. ✨ Inside this episode: Why trust is the missing link in many funding relationships How to create partnerships that expand nonprofit capacity Real-world lessons from rural Minnesota collaborat...

A strong development team doesn’t just raise money — it grows together. In this episode, Marie and Gay explore the professional development options that can spark growth for both individuals and teams. ✨ Inside this episode: Practical resources to grow skills and confidence How to strengthen team dynamics through shared learning Tips for expanding your network and advancing your career 🎧 Press p...

Charitable Gift Annuities can be a win-win — but only if you know how to use them well. Consultant Edie Adkins shares her expertise on this powerful giving tool and what nonprofits need to watch for. ✨ Inside this episode: CGA basics explained in clear, simple language The best prospects for this gift vehicle (and who isn’t a fit) Key compliance updates every nonprofit should know 🎧 Press play t...

If Part 1 left you curious, this conversation goes deeper. In part 2, Frances Roen returns to share all five essentials for fundraising that nourishes both community and the people doing the work. ✨ Inside this episode: The complete roadmap for making fundraising energizing How wellness practices ripple out to strengthen donor relationships Practical shifts to make your team’s culture more life-g...

What separates a good campaign from a truly successful one? Storytelling expert Lori Jacobwith walks through nine steps that every fundraiser needs to master for lasting results. Step 1 - Leadership Step 2 - Staff Step 3 - Board Members Step 4 - Goals, Timelines, and Urgency Step 5 - Telling Your Story Step 6 - Keeping Your Donors Engaged Step 7 - Money Conversations Step 8 - Be Specific Step 9 -...

Events look different than they did just a few years ago — but they remain powerful touchpoints for donors. Aileen Rosa Sanchez shares how organizations are reimagining events that engage people far beyond the ballroom. ✨ Inside this episode: What’s changed about fundraising events since Covid Practical tips for boosting donor connection before, during, and after A success story that shows how th...

The rules around IRA giving just changed — and so did your conversations with donors. Experts Craig Wruck and Dana Holt break down what the new SECURE 2.0 Act means and how you can use it to spark fresh generosity. ✨ Inside this episode: The most important updates fundraisers need to understand How to turn complex law into simple donor conversations Opportunities to inspire giving in brand new wa...

Behind every strong fundraising effort is a strong team — and strong leadership to guide it. Aileen Rosa Sanchez joins Gay and Kristi to talk about the art of building and coaching development teams that truly flourish. ✨ Inside this episode: How transformational leaders recruit, train, and inspire Practical ways to embed IDEA (inclusion, diversity, equity, access) into culture Keys to reaching h...

What if fundraising didn’t drain you, but actually gave you energy? Frances Roen believes it can. In this first conversation on “Sol Full Fundraising,” she shares the practices that help nonprofit teams thrive instead of burn out. ✨ Inside this episode: The first steps to making fundraising feel joyful, not heavy Why wellness is the secret ingredient in sustainable giving A new way of thinking ab...

What if the biggest barrier in your fundraising career isn’t strategy, confidence, or capacity— but the story you’re telling yourself? In this episode, life coach Tricia Schleper helps us uncover the invisible beliefs that quietly hold development professionals back. These internal narratives shape how we communicate, lead, and pursue growth… often without us even realizing it. If you’ve ever felt...

What if economic uncertainty didn’t have to derail your fundraising—but actually opened the door to new opportunities? In this episode, Jennifer Berges , Director of Philanthropy at EngenderHealth, shares what she’s learned navigating donor relationships through past recessions. She explains why planned and legacy giving become essential tools during downturns and how fundraisers can help donors s...

Gratitude isn’t just a seasonal theme—it’s the heartbeat of donor relationships. In this uplifting episode, two seasoned philanthropy leaders, Lynn Praska and Susan Hommes , reflect on what they’ve learned across more than six decades of combined donor relations experience. Their stories will remind you why this work matters—and how centering donor passion can transform your organization and your...

Crypto, NFTs, and digital assets—buzzwords or fundraising opportunities? In this accessible introduction to the world of digital currency, Dan⁠ , ⁠Chase⁠ , and ⁠Carl⁠ break down the basics: where cryptocurrency came from, how it works, and what fundraisers need to know about accepting crypto gifts. Whether you’re crypto-curious or crypto-cautious, this episode demystifies a fast-evolving landscape...

What if the biggest barrier to your fundraising success is the story you’re telling yourself? In this eye-opening episode, Ali⁠ & ⁠Kristi⁠ sit down with NLP Trainer, Author, and Speaker Betsy Pake to explore how our internal narratives shape the way we communicate with donors, pursue goals, and interpret money. Betsy reveals how understanding your own “unconscious programming” can unlock new l...

Every seasoned fundraiser has a story that keeps them up at night… But these are next-level. In this classic episode, Carl Newbanks and Kristi Ackley sit down with Jim Dwyer and Nancy Brown to share real-life bequest stories that went sideways—sometimes in shocking, unforgettable ways. Beyond the scares, this episode is packed with wisdom about what to do (and what to avoid) when navigating donor...

Imagine a board that doesn’t just support your fundraising… but is energized by it. In this episode, Ali & Marie welcome consultant and co-host Kristi Ackley , who breaks down her most effective strategies for turning hesitant board members into confident fundraising partners. From identifying strengths to reducing fear, Kristi shares an empowering, strengths-based approach every organization...

Minnesota’s nonprofit sector has weathered crisis after crisis—but what does the future hold? In this powerful conversation, MCN Associate Director Kari Aanestad shares insights into how organizations are navigating ongoing challenges: COVID-19 recovery, shifts in charitable giving, racial equity efforts, economic pressures, and threats to democracy. Her perspective offers clarity, nuance, and hop...

What if your strongest asset for planned giving… is your volunteers? Co-hosts Carl & Kristi are joined by Wells Fargo Philanthropic Advisor Marie Ruzek , who shares how she successfully built three thriving volunteer planned giving committees. From committee structure to common pitfalls, Marie gives a clear roadmap for anyone ready to deepen their legacy giving efforts. ✨ Inside this episode:...

Only 33% of U.S. adults have a will—an enormous challenge and opportunity for nonprofits. In this episode, Patrick Schmitt⁠ of ⁠FreeWill shares powerful estate planning data, generational trends, and fundraising insights. Learn how your organization can use Make a Will Month to spark legacy conversations, unlock long-term commitments, and steward younger generations of donors. ✨ Inside this episo...

What if better time management could transform not just your productivity—but your wellbeing? Co-hosts Ali & Kristi sit down with Tammy Moore of Being Moore to explore practical time management strategies tailored to the unique demands of development work. This episode will help you reduce overwhelm, reclaim energy, and design a more sustainable rhythm for your work and life. ✨ Inside this ep...

Should donors invest in the long game through an endowment—or take a big swing now for immediate impact? In this crossover episode with the Next in Nonprofits podcast, Carl⁠ , ⁠Kristi⁠ & Steve dive into big-gift thinking. They explore how fundraisers can guide donors through meaningful, strategic decisions while balancing sustainability, community needs, and donor intent. ✨ Inside this episod...

DEI work looks different everywhere—and rural Minnesota has its own unique challenges and opportunities. In this thoughtful conversation, Carl & Kristi speak with Don Hickman from the Initiative Foundation about decades of work in rural communities. Through stories and insights, Don shares how shared goals, patience, and local partnerships can open doors where resistance once stood. ✨ Inside...