Responsive Lab Podcast

Latest Episodes:

EP 23: Building Sustainable Fundraising Growth Through Strategic Donor Relationships w/ Mike Esposito [Ask a Responsive Fundraiser] Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Esposito, founder and lead fundraising strategist of Mike Esposito Fundraising, to explore practical strategies for small to mid-size nonprofits aiming to strengthen donor relationships and achieve sustainable fundraising growth. Drawing on his extensive experience, Mike shares insights on building effective fundraising systems, board engagement, and successful corporate partnerships. Topics we cover: • Developing a sustainable and repeatable major gifts strategy tailored for smaller fundraising teams. • Engaging board members in fundraising without overwhelming them. • Converting event attendees and volunteers into long-term, committed donors. • Approaching corporate sponsorships strategically to create meaningful, mutually beneficial partnerships. Mike provides actionable advice fundraisers can implement immediately, highlighting the importance of personalized donor experiences, clear next-step engagement tactics, and strategic corporate outreach. Learn more about Mike Esposito Fundraising and how they help nonprofits build lasting fundraising success: https://www.mikeespositocfre.com/ Discover how Virtuous can support your nonprofit’s growth: https://vrtuo.us/4hsSN6g The Responsive Lab is brought to you by Virtuous. Virtuous is committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity through personalized donor engagement. Their mission is to inspire nonprofits to build deeper connections with givers. Learn more at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist.

EP 22: The Formula for Fundraising Success with Diana Hoyt Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Responsive Lab, Virtuous co-hosts Carly Berna and Scott Holthaus talk with Diana Hoyt, founder of Formula for Fundraising. With over four decades in the nonprofit world, Diana shares her signature philosophy—”Know Your Numbers, Know Your Donors"—and how data and human connection can work together to boost donor engagement and retention. Diana offers practical tips for nonprofits looking to create meaningful donor experiences, segment effectively, and balance technology with personal touchpoints. She also shares how her journey into stand-up comedy has brought even more heart to her fundraising work. Key Takeaways: - Why personalization goes far beyond using a donor’s name - How to segment donors by interest, geography, and giving patterns - The role of small VIP events in donor engagement - Where automation helps—and where it doesn’t - Why notes, phone calls, and even front-desk conversations matter - How recurring giving and thoughtful stewardship increase retention To learn more or connect with Diana, visit Formula for Fundraising: https://www.formulaforfundraising.com Meanwhile, discover more about The Responsive Lab: virtuous.org/podcast The Responsive Lab is brought to you by Virtuous. Virtuous is a software company committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity. Virtuous believes that generosity has the power to create profound change in the world and in the heart of the giver. With that in mind, it’s their mission to move the needle on global generosity by helping nonprofits better connect with and inspire their givers. Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist. Special thanks to editor and sound engineer Barry R. Hill and producer Abigail Morse.

EP 21: Enhancing Nonprofit Efficiency with Collaborative Strategies w/ Miriam Dicks [Ask a Responsive Fundraiser] Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we connect with Miriam Dicks, founder and CEO of 180 Management Group, to uncover strategies that help organizations streamline operations and enhance donor engagement. With over 20 years of experience, Miriam shares her expertise in transforming business processes in nonprofits and embracing change to foster long-term success. Topics we dive into: - How to identify and address the root causes of silos within your organization. - Improving team collaboration and creating a consistent donor experience. - Translating high-level strategic goals into actionable steps. - Encouraging accountability and action by developing a clear plan for leveraging data insights. Miriam provides actionable steps that fundraisers can apply immediately, emphasizing the importance of creating personal connections, enhancing communication, and using effective strategies to improve overall organizational efficiency. Learn more about 180 Management Group and their approach to organizational transformation here: https://www.180managementgroup.com Explore how Virtuous can aid your nonprofit growth: https://vrtuo.us/4hsSN6g The Responsive Lab is brought to you by Virtuous. Virtuous is a software company committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity. Virtuous believes that generosity has the power to create profound change in the world and in the heart of the giver. With that in mind, it’s their mission to move the needle on global generosity by helping nonprofits better connect with and inspire their givers. Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist. Special thanks to editor and sound engineer Barry R. Hill and producer Abigail Morse.

EP 20: Boosting Nonprofit Impact with Email and Donation Page Tips w/ Josh Burns [Ask a Responsive Fundraiser] Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

In this special podcast episode, we introduce "Ask a Responsive Fundraiser," where we take your questions to fundraising experts so you can grow generosity. In this episode, we connect with Josh Burns, CEO of Spark Collective, to explore digital marketing strategies that equip nonprofits to grow generosity and enhance donor engagement. Josh taps into his 15 years of experience to answer pressing questions fundraisers face, offering practical insights and actionable strategies. Topics we dive into: • How to strategically improve email marketing to convert subscribers into donors. • Problem-solving donation page conversion issues to encourage increased online giving. • Prioritizing digital marketing efforts effectively when resources are limited. Josh shares actionable steps fundraisers can immediately implement. Gain insights on fostering genuine connections, amplifying your resources, and using technology to drive meaningful donor experiences. Learn more about Spark Collective: https://www.sparkcollective.net/ Explore how Virtuous can aid your nonprofit growth: https://vrtuo.us/4hsSN6g

Episode 19: Transforming Major Gifts Through the Collaborative Ask with Gail Perry Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Responsive Lab, hosts Scott Holthaus and Carly Berna sit down with fundraising expert Gail Perry, internationally recognized keynote speaker, consultant, and author of Fired-Up Fundraising. With over 30 years of experience coaching nonprofits to achieve extraordinary fundraising results, Gail shares her insights on building a thriving major gifts program. Also in this episode, Gail shares: - How nonprofits can adapt their major gifts strategy in times of crisis - The power of a collaborative ask—and an example of it in action - How technology can enhance donor engagement while maintaining personal connections - The key metric fundraisers should track to drive success - Should board members be major donors? Tips on finding the right balance Don’t miss this exciting conversation on transforming donor relationships and elevating fundraising efforts. Watch or listen at virtuous.org/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts. Meanwhile, learn more about Gail Perry and sign up for her newsletter at gailperrygroup.com. You can also reach out to Gail at gail.p@gailperry.com. Season One of The Responsive Lab is brought to you by Virtuous. Virtuous is a software company committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity. Virtuous believes that generosity has the power to create profound change in the world and in the heart of the giver. With that in mind, it’s their mission to move the needle on global generosity by helping nonprofits better connect with and inspire their givers. Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist. Special thanks to editor and sound engineer Barry R. Hill and producer Abigail Morse.

Episode 18: [SPECIAL EPISODE]: The Easiest Way to Grow as a Fundraiser This Year [Without Leaving Your Desk] Apr 03, 2025

Show notes

What’s the easiest way to grow as a fundraiser this year—without leaving your desk? In this special episode of The Responsive Lab, co-hosts Carly Berna and Scott Holthaus unpack exactly that. Drawing from their own time in the fundraising trenches, they explore how nonprofit professionals can grow right where they are—by staying curious, leaning into community, and choosing growth even in the busyness. And there’s no better way to do that than the Responsive Nonprofit Summit, happening June 4-5, 2025! It’s free, fully virtual, and designed to help nonprofit professionals grow their impact—without leaving their desk. Key takeaways from the episode include: - Why fundraisers struggle to make space for innovation - Where to find real-time inspiration in your work - How to grow in your role without burning out - What to expect from the Responsive Nonprofit Summit Reserve your free spot at the Summit: https://vrtuo.us/3RnQbMl Meanwhile, check out more episode of The Responsive Lab at: virtuous.org/podcast The Responsive Lab is brought to you by: VIRTUOUS Virtuous is a software company committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity. Virtuous believes that generosity has the power to create profound change in the world and in the heart of the giver. With that in mind, it’s their mission to move the needle on global generosity by helping nonprofits better connect with and inspire their givers. Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist. Special thanks to editor and sound engineer Barry R. Hill and producer Abigail Morse.

Episode 17 [SPECIAL EPISODE]: 5 Years Since COVID: How Fundraising’s Changed and What It Means for You Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

In this special episode of The Responsive Lab, we conducted a webinar with experts from Allegiance Group Pursuant, Dunham and Company, RKD Group, and 5by5 Agency to explore how nonprofit fundraising has evolved in the five years since COVID-19. The pandemic accelerated the shift to digital-first engagement, forcing organizations to rethink donor relationships, embrace AI-driven fundraising, and adopt data-driven strategies. We discussed key trends shaping the sector, including: - The rise of online giving and automated fundraising strategies - How donor expectations have changed, emphasizing personalization and transparency - The power of data analytics and predictive modeling in improving donor retention As technology continues to evolve, nonprofits must stay ahead of the curve by investing in innovation, AI, and strategic donor engagement. For a deeper dive into these insights, download our report: 5 Years Since COVID: How Fundraising Has Changed: https://virtuous.org/resource/5-years-since-covid/?utm_campaign=10001227-%5B2025%5D%205%20Years%20Since%20COVID&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9XVOzJ_vdU2zi7j6gHNNXWA8vpC8l4tcM9pNB-tRft7rlWCCC8N0SlIQEu5Yi-EbAo7rgw Discover more at: https://virtuous.org/blog/5-years-since-covid-the-future-of-fundraising-in-a-digital-first-world/ Meanwhile, check out more episodes of The Responsive Lab at virtuous.org/podcast. Season One of The Responsive Lab is brought to you by: VIRTUOUS Virtuous is a software company committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity. Virtuous believes that generosity has the power to create profound change in the world and in the heart of the giver. With that in mind, it’s their mission to move the needle on global generosity by helping nonprofits better connect with and inspire their givers. Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist. Special thanks to editor and sound engineer Barry R. Hill and producer Abigail Morse.

Episode 16: How to Listen to and Understand Your Donors Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Responsive Lab, Carly and Scott sit down with Chris Barlow, Customer Happiness Director at Beeline Marketing, to explore how nonprofits can break through digital noise and connect with the right audience. Chris shares insights on active listening, data-driven marketing, and how nonprofits can future-proof their fundraising strategies. Also in this episode, Chris shares: - His journey and his work at Beeline Marketing - How active listening helps nonprofits engage the right audience - The most important data signals nonprofits should track - Choosing the right marketing channels for better donor engagement - How nonprofits can build a sustainable marketing strategy for the future Watch or listen now for actionable insights on how nonprofits can refine their marketing approach and drive meaningful engagement: virtuous.org/podcast. The Responsive Lab is brought to you by Virtuous. Virtuous is a software company committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity. Virtuous believes that generosity has the power to create profound change in the world and in the heart of the giver. With that in mind, it’s their mission to move the needle on global generosity by helping nonprofits better connect with and inspire their givers. Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist. Special thanks to editor and sound engineer Barry R. Hill and producer Abigail Morse.

Episode 15: The Future of Fundraising Acquisition with Brad Davies Mar 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Responsive Lab, Carly and Scott are joined by VP of Ministry Digital Growth at Salem Web Network, Brad Davies! This conversation unpacks what donor acquisition looks like in a digital-first world and how nonprofits can embrace digital media to fuel acquisition. Also in this conversation, they discuss: - Current trends Brad’s seeing in fundraising acquisition that fundraisers should be paying attention to. - Some of the biggest mistakes nonprofits are making today in digital and how to fix them. - Best practices that bring the greatest success in digital acquisition. - How to measure donor acquisition and ROI in paid media. - What the future of digital media acquisition looks like. To learn more about Brad Davies, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daviesbrad/. Meanwhile, discover more insights in the Virtuous Nonprofit Benchmark Report: https://virtuous.org/benchmarkreport/.

Episode 14: How to Choose the Right Tech for Your Nonprofit with Matt Scott from CauseMic Feb 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Responsive Lab, your Virtuous co-hosts, Carly Berna and Scott Holthaus, welcome Matt Scott from CauseMic for an exciting discussion about the importance of technology in the nonprofit sector. Matt begins by sharing his background and experience in helping customers choose the right technology to meet their needs. He explains what he sees as the biggest hurdle in overcoming technological barriers, and dives into the methodology behind nonprofit tech. Taking a look at the CauseMic CRM Guide, a resource designed to help nonprofits select the right CRM to fit their fundraising goals, Matt talks about the process that went into making the guide, identifying the primary “why” that originally motivated him to create the guide for nonprofits. Also in this episode, Matt shares: - Key features on the CauseMic CRM Guide that Matt was most impressed with. - A customer story highlighting how selecting the right technology made a significant impact on their organization’s fundraising efforts. - A Mystery Question at the end! Discover more about CauseMic and download their CRM Guide at: https://causemic.com/nonprofit-crm-guide. Meanwhile, learn more about The Responsive Lab at virtuous.org/podcast. Season One of The Responsive Lab is brought to you by Virtuous. Virtuous is a software company committed to helping nonprofits grow generosity. Virtuous believes that generosity has the power to create profound change in the world and in the heart of the giver. With that in mind, it’s their mission to move the needle on global generosity by helping nonprofits better connect with and inspire their givers. Learn more about Virtuous at virtuous.org/learnmore and download your free Nonprofit CRM Checklist at virtuous.org/crmchecklist. Special thanks to editor and sound engineer Barry R. Hill and producer Abigail Morse.

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