Portnoy Media Lab

Before I touched a campaign, I ran them through the first two lenses of a framework I built called Core4: what do they actually have, and who actually donates to them. This is the real footage of what I found.  Episode 3 of a behind-the-scenes series on the whole campaign.  Learn more about Alabaster:  https://www.alabasterinternational.org/groundbreakers  Instagram - / alabaster_international  Yo...

This is Episode 2 of a behind-the-scenes series on raising $200,000 in 90 days for Alabaster. The honest stuff: what's hard, what's working, what's at stake. Learn more about Alabaster: https://www.alabasterinternational.org/groundbreakers Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alabaster_international/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@AlabasterInternational   #nonprofit #fundraising #socialimpact...

I knew Shannon and Ash from church. I had no idea they were quietly running world-class work in South Sudan, schools, kids, in one of the hardest places on earth to do any of it. Legit, and badly underfunded. So they hired me. We have until August 1 to raise $200,000, and hitting it unlocks grant money that changes what they can do. This is Episode 1 of a behind-the-scenes series on the whole camp...

What This Episode Covers The hidden reason nonprofit content underperforms Why “Sorry it’s been a while…” is a trust killer The inbox is a value exchange , not a favor Why most organizations send updates instead of insights Key Concept: The Expertise Gap The gap between: What your organization knows deeply What you’re actually sharing publicly   Most teams protect their expertise rather than use i...

What This Episode Covers The “paint job vs engine” framework Why polished content often fails How AI is making shallow content easier (and worse) The difference between clever and clear   The Core Problem: The Paint Job Trap Content that sounds smart but says nothing Strong visuals, weak thinking Packaging without substance   Why This Happens Early marketers chase cleverness Pressure to produce →...

Story isn't something you add at the end of your marketing process. It's the structure that makes your message work in the first place. In Episode 4, Dan Portnoy breaks down what story actually is at its most fundamental level — not long-form content, not guilt-trip videos with soft music — but a three-part structure that your audience's brain is already wired to follow: Want → Obstacle → Change ....

In today's fast-paced business environment, defining success is crucial for any marketing strategy to yield the desired results. Many teams focus on developing a growth strategy that emphasizes marketing tactics and ROI, but often overlook a critical question that can make or break their marketing planning efforts. To achieve compounding growth and sustainable marketing, it's essential to have a c...

Key Ideas Most marketing advice conflicts because it’s designed to sell products, not solve your problem Strategy defines the goal; tactics support it—not the other way around Algorithms change constantly; your story is the only stable asset There are no shortcuts—momentum comes from sustained effort Constantly switching tactics creates opportunity cost, morale loss, and confusion   Practical Take...

Episode Notes: This is Episode 1 of the Portnoy Media Lab Podcast New episodes explore clarity, systems, and creative work that actually moves the needle Resources and tools mentioned are available at danportnoy.com/resources Blog posts publish Tuesdays; personal reflections on Substack publish Thursdays   www.danportnoy.substack.com www. PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www. DanPortnoy.com  

The Portnoy Media Lab Podcast is for makers and marketers trying to turn real creative work into communication that actually connects. Hosted by writer, filmmaker, and creative strategist Dan Portnoy, the show features honest conversations with writers, filmmakers, designers, producers, and creative leaders—along with occasional solo episodes unpacking the communication and strategy problems that...

Introduction: Reflecting on last week's episode and transitioning to the present. Assessing Your Current Position: Checking in with yourself and your morale. Identifying areas of dissatisfaction and improvement. Aligning with mission statements and values. Gathering feedback from colleagues. Celebrating Small Wins: Recognizing everyday achievements to build morale. Encouraging teams to acknowledge...

Welcome to the Nonprofit Narrative Podcast , where we discuss marketing, storytelling, and systems to help your business or nonprofit thrive. In this episode, we cover: The importance of taking your time with strategic planning. How to reflect on the past year and set meaningful goals for the future. Conducting a business audit to analyze key performance indicators (KPIs). Insights from the Ink +...

Join me on the latest episode of the Nonprofit Narrative Podcast as I chat with my brother, Ryan Portnoy, a design wizard who helps small nonprofits tell their stories through stunning design. We dive deep into the world of nonprofit design, sharing insights on how great design can enhance storytelling and drive engagement. 👉 Episode Highlights: Ryan’s journey and expertise in nonprofit design Th...

In this insightful episode titled "Maximizing Grant Writing for Funding Success," experts Dan Portnoy and Lara Pimentel share transformative strategies for nonprofits seeking to enhance their grant acquisition and foster impactful relationships. Discover practical tips on crafting compelling grant proposals, navigating the complexities of funding mechanisms, and building lasting connections with d...

Kristin Spiotto, the co-founder and CEO of Decoded Strategies, shares insights on strategic messaging for nonprofits. She emphasizes the importance of clear and customer-focused messaging, avoiding confusion and making the audience the story's hero. Kristin also discusses the role of AI in messaging and the need for human decision-making. She highlights the significance of empathy and authority in...

Hello, and welcome to the nonprofit narrative podcast, the go-to space for marketing managers and development directors passionate about taking their nonprofits to new heights. I'm your host, Dan Portnoy high. In each episode, we will dive into the world of nonprofit storytelling, donor engagement, and fundraising strategies; whether you want to refine your narrative, boost your fundraising effort...

I'm thrilled to unveil an idea two years in the making. It will be a game-changer for you and your organization: The Nonprofit Narrative Academy . Each month follows a theme to maximize an organization's story and put the pieces in place for maximum communication. And each month, you'll learn how to communicate your impact and engage with your community effectively. The academy covers it all, whet...

In the ever-evolving world of nonprofit organizations, the ability to craft a compelling narrative and tell a captivating story can be the difference between achieving your mission and getting lost in the noise. In today's episode, we welcome 6-time Primetime Emmy nominee writer Matt Beans, a storytelling expert with a treasure trove of experience in the entertainment industry. Matt Beans joins th...

What if you aren't ready for Giving Tuesday? Don't worry, I'm here to help. This week is a 7-part training I made to help Giving Tuesday be amazing. Watch the training here - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLE2kh3qUPEGSc-5BGce0HrgaxNRNl7Uds Download the sample editorial calendar here - https://portnoy.co/3NynUjt www.danportnoy.substack.com www. PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www. DanPortnoy.com  

Don't let this happen to you! I recently received a mailing from a nonprofit that was big and jam-packed with goodies for me but there was zero connection. What should you do? Listen in to find out.  www.danportnoy.substack.com www. PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www. DanPortnoy.com  

Okay, here we go. Hey, welcome to the show. My name is Dan. This is the nonprofit narrative podcast. In today's episode, our first journey together. This is an interview that I did a couple of months back with Dave Avramovich. He's a young life area director, he is responsible for the Los Angeles area. And he's also a pretty great guy. The fun part about today is like this is a maiden voyage. So I...

New for 2022! The Nonprofit Narrative Podcast is to help you tell your story the best way possible and connect with more donors and the community better than ever. I hope you'll join us.  www.danportnoy.substack.com www. PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www. DanPortnoy.com  

Connect with Rory Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/go_innovation/ Website: http://go-innovation.com   www.danportnoy.substack.com www. PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www. DanPortnoy.com  

  Connect with Kristin Website: https://decodedfinances.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decodedfinances/ Spreadsheet - Download on Kristin's website - CLICK HERE   Budget Resources: Mint- http://www.mint.com YouNeedABudget - http://www.youneedabudget.com Every Dollar - http://www.everydollar.com www.danportnoy.substack.com www. PortnoyMedia.com/Blog www. DanPortnoy.com  

Joey Contact Website: http://www.jo3bot.com Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/joebot/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jo3bot/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jo3bot/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JoeySpiotto Grumpy Unicorn - https://www.amazon.com/Grumpy-Unicorn-Why-Me-Scholastic/dp/1338565419 Other Books - http://www.jo3bot.com/books Artist Profile - https://youtu.be/3aMbngTcUQs   Link...