Nonprofit Lowdown

Latest Episodes:

#356- The Trust Crisis in Major Gift Fundraising with Greg Warner Sep 22, 2025

Show notes

It’s year-end giving season — and if your strategy still relies on wealth screens and spray-and-pray asks, it’s time for a reset.

On this week’s Nonprofit Lowdown, I’m joined by my friend (and fan favorite) Greg Warner, CEO of MarketSmart, to talk about why trust is your only currency — and how we’re getting it so, so wrong.

💥 Why wealth screens can backfire

💥 How trust has eroded across generations

💥 The myths of donor pyramids and "burn and churn" fundraising

💥 The real role of tech and transparency in major giving

💥 And the one mindset shift that will transform your entire fundraising approach

If you’re ready to stop extracting and start building partnerships with your donors, this episode is for you.

Important Links:

Zeffy: https://www.zeffy.com/?ref=Rhea

Connect with Greg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmarketsmart/

Fundraising Report Card: https://fundraisingreportcard.com/

How to Train ChatGPT: https://go.rheawong.com/annual-fundraising-plan-tracker1-3127-4300

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

#355- The Future of Fundraising and AI with Brooke Richie-Babbage Sep 15, 2025

Show notes

This week on Nonprofit Lowdown, I’m joined by my business bestie and returning favorite, Brooke Richie-Babbage — strategist, executive, founder of Bending Arc, and all-around AI powerhouse.

We’re diving deep into how AI is actually being used in the nonprofit space — beyond the hype.

We discuss:

How AI can support (but not replace) your thinking
Use cases for AI in finance, fundraising, and data analysis
Tools for donor segmentation and engagement
Why donor trust and ethical data use matter more than ever
How to create guardrails, policies, and inclusive practices around AI

We also talk about the messy but necessary process of innovation, how to lead AI adoption with integrity, and why nonprofits must be part of the AI conversation — or risk being left behind.

If you're curious about AI but unsure where to start, this one’s packed with insights, real examples, and practical tools you can use right away.

Important Links:

Zeffy: https://www.zeffy.com/register?&utm_source=Rhea_Wong

Connect with Brooke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjrichiebabbage/

Fast Forward: https://www.ffwd.org/ai-for-humanity

How to Train ChatGPT: https://go.rheawong.com/annual-fundraising-plan-tracker1-3127-4300

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

#354- Demystifying DAFs with Mitch Stein Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

I’m joined by my friend and returning guest, Mitch Stein, now Head of Strategy at Chariot, and we’re breaking down the truth about Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) — what they are, how they work, and what nonprofits are getting wrong about them.

Here's what we cover:

What a DAF actually is (and no, it's not just for the ultra-wealthy)
Why $250 billion is just sitting in DAFs right now — and how to access it
How to stop losing donors due to missed acknowledgments and poor data practices
Why building trust (not chasing fund managers) is key to unlocking DAF dollars
One truly cringeworthy story from my ED days that still haunts me (you’ll want to avoid this mistake)

If you’re in development, major gifts, or even running a small shop, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you tap into this growing funding source.

Important Links:

Connect with Mitch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitch-stein/

DAF Fundraising Report: https://www.givechariot.com/daf-fundraising-report

How to Train ChatGPT: https://go.rheawong.com/annual-fundraising-plan-tracker1-3127-4300

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

#353- AI Can't Be Ignored with Nate Wong Sep 01, 2025

Show notes

This episode is a juicy one. I’m joined by my pal Nate Wong. Nate is a partner at The Bridgespan Group and co-author of a recent white paper, “AI Cannot Be Ignored,” which dives deep into the opportunities (and responsibilities!) that AI presents to nonprofits and the broader social sector.

With the Fundraising.AI conference around the corner—where I’ll be speaking, by the way—this conversation couldn’t come at a better time.

This episode was both energizing and sobering. AI isn’t just about saving time—it’s about making space for what matters: human connection, meaningful strategy, and real impact. But we can’t be passive. We have to actively shape how AI shows up in our work—and that starts by engaging with it, not avoiding it.

Important Links:

Connect with Nate: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanielkwong/

AI for Humanity: https://www.ffwd.org/ai-for-humanity

Bridgespan: https://www.bridgespan.org/insights/exploring-ai-opportunities-for-nonprofits-and-the-social-sector

How to Train ChatGPT: https://go.rheawong.com/annual-fundraising-plan-tracker1-3127-4300

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

#352- Year End Giving Prep with 10x Crew Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

In this special episode, I host my powerhouse 10X crew for an energetic roundtable on one of the nonprofit sector’s most important seasons: end-of-year fundraising.

The conversation covers:

The fundraising landscape in 2025
How to use AI and automation without losing the human touch
Maintaining donor trust
The importance of mid-level donor strategy
Zigging when others zag (analog in a digital world)
How to audit and prep your tech stack
Why major gifts still matter—and take time

Whether you're a small shop with limited resources or a seasoned fundraiser navigating a changing landscape, this episode is packed with practical insights, tools, and strategies to supercharge your year-end campaign.

Important Links:

How to Train ChatGPT: https://go.rheawong.com/annual-fundraising-plan-tracker1-3127-4300

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

#351- Why the Prime Time Woman is Gold for Fundraisers with Tisha Hyter Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

I am so excited to drop this convo with my friend and powerhouse guest, Tisha Hyter.

We’re talking all about something I’m totally obsessed with right now: the Primetime Woman – women aged 45–65 who are stepping into their full power, purpose, and philanthropic influence.

Tisha and I go deep on:

💥 What it means to be a Primetime Woman
💰 Why this group is the most philanthropic cohort in history
👯‍♀️ How women are giving in community and using their skills – not just writing checks
👀 Why we’re DONE with the BS and want real impact and real connection
⚰️ And yep… I said it: the big gala is dead. (Long live pickleball tournaments & purpose-driven tea parties!)

Tisha shares her own journey – from sales and marketing to sleigh-at-home mom (yes, sleigh 💅) to nonprofit leader – and how turning 50 became her "locker room moment" to reimagine the second half of life.

As a proud Primetime Woman myself, this one felt personal. If you’re a nonprofit leader wondering how to tap into this powerful group of donors (and avoid turning them off), this episode is for you.

Important Links:

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

#350- Transforming Nonprofit Boards Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

Welcome back to Nonprofit Lowdown — I'm Rhea Wong, and today you're getting the raw, unfiltered replay of the power session I co-led with my ride-or-die, Brooke Ritchie-Babbage, at AFP’s Fundraising Day in NYC.

Here’s what we unpack:

✅ The ONE written give/get policy that shuts down the “I don’t fundraise” excuse.

✅ Our 2x2 skills map that sorts your board in 10 minutes flat. ✅ Real-world tools: board report cards, mini dinner salons, and a no-guilt off-ramp that gets even the most reluctant board members into gear.

✅ PLUS: how to rewrite the money stories that keep smart people stuck — and the questions that flip the script fast.

Enough talk. Let’s build a board that raises real money. 🎙️💸

Important Links:

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

#349- Fundraising Across Generation Divides with Connor Kirkpatrick Aug 04, 2025

Show notes

This week, I’m joined by the ever-brilliant Connor Kirkpatrick, Director of Development at Book Harvest.

Connor’s a proud alum of my Big Ask Big Give program, and in this convo we go deep on:
-Going from 8 to 24 major donors in 2 years
-Using data + automation to build a scalable fundraising engine
-What it really means to build a culture of philanthropy

💥 Connor proves that when you mix solid strategy with bold authenticity, fundraising magic happens.

Important Links:

Connect with Connor : https://www.linkedin.com/in/connorpkirkpatrick/

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program

My Book, Get That Money Honey: https://go.rheawong.com/get-that-money-honey

My Newsletter: https://www.rheawong.com/

Fundraising Fri-Yay #1- Recession Ready Playbook Aug 01, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the FIRST episode of Fundraising Fri-Yay with me, Rhea Wong! 🎉

Kicking things off with a solo episode that gets real about the uncertainty we’re all feeling right now in the nonprofit world—tariff shifts, funding freezes, economic turbulence... it’s a lot.

But here’s the deal: panic won’t pay the bills. So instead of reacting, let’s respond—with strategy. 💪

✨ You’ll learn:
🔹 How to double revenue with a 10% lift in donor retention
🔹 Why monthly giving + donor-advised funds are your secret weapons
🔹 How to communicate for confidence, not crisis
🔹 Ways to build internal “shock absorbers” so you're ready for anything

Whether you're leading a small shop or a big team, this episode is packed with actionable steps to help you not just survive—but THRIVE—in economic uncertainty.

Let’s make every Friday a little smarter, a little bolder, and a lot more impactful.

#348- How to Navigate in This Moment with Rhonda Allen Jul 28, 2025

Show notes

I’m so excited to share this powerful convo with my friend and guest, Rhonda Allen, CEO of Dev Color. We went in on what it means to lead an org that centers Black technologists — especially in a moment when DEI is under fire and folks are playing it safe.

In this episode, we talk about:

➡️ Navigating leadership as a Black woman in tech

➡️ What it really takes to fundraise when DEI isn’t “trendy” anymore

➡️ Why small, authentic human connections > big flashy events

➡️ How AI is reshaping our world — and why we need Black leaders at the table

➡️ The personal cost (and power) of showing up as the face of the work

🖤 Rhonda drops so many gems, and I walked away feeling grounded, energized, and more committed than ever to staying 10 toes down for the mission.

💥 “Let the robots robot. Let the humans human.” — yeah, I said that, and I stand by it.

Important Links:

Connect with Rhonda : https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhallen/

Upcoming Events: https://www.rheawong.com/events/

My Big Ask Gifts Program: https://go.rheawong.com/big-ask-gifts-program