The Fundraising Elevator Podcast

Episode #91 | Future-Proofing Your Mission: Voices from the Raise Conference

In this special episode of The Fundraising Elevator, host Samantha Swaim takes listeners behind the scenes at the Raise Conference in San Antonio, Texas. Recording live from the Raise Nation Radio studio, Sam talks to six industry leaders, gathering their insights on what fundraisers should focus on right now and busting common fundraising myths.
Featured Guests:
Barbara O'Reilly - Founder and Principal, Windmill Hill Consulting
Nathan Chappell - Author and Chief AI Officer at Virtuous
Susan Kramer - Founder/CEO of Susan Kramer Consulting
Christina Jones - Founder of Command Joy
Matt Bitzegaio - CEO of DonorDock
Bradley Martin - VP of Growth Marketing at Feathr
This special episode offers you actionable insights and inspiration from leading voices in the fundraising sector all recorded in the energetic atmosphere of a live conference setting. Special thanks to GSF Media, OneCause, and Raise Nation Radio.
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Feathr: https://www.feathr.co/
Feathr is a marketing platform built specifically for mission-driven organizations, offering simple tools for digital advertising, email campaigns, and audience engagement. The platform uses real-time insights and AI-powered segmentation to help you reach the right people at the right time—whether you’re nurturing existing supporters or discovering new ones who share your values. It’s marketing that meets people where they are, building relationships that last beyond a single click.
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
 
| RESOURCES |
Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Propose a Podcast Episode: https://swaimstrategies.com/propose-a-podcast-episode/
Get Event Help Right Now with Gala 911: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/gala-911/
Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
Learn More About the Elevate Conference: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
Get Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
Join Swaim Strategies on Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
Connect with The AV Department:  https://theavdept.com/
Connect with Barbara O’Reilly: https://whillconsulting.com/
Connect with Nathan Chapell: https://virtuous.org/
Connect with Susan Kramer: https://susankramerconsulting.com/
Connect with Christina Jones: https://www.commandjoyco.com/
Connect with Matt Bitzegaio: https://www.donordock.com/
Connect with Bradley Martin: https://www.feathr.co/
Thank you to GSF Media: https://gsfmedia.com/
Thank you to OneCause: https://www.onecause.com/
Thank you to Raise Nation Radio: https://www.onecause.com/raise-nation-podcast/

Episode Episode #90 | The Breakthrough Research That Can Double Your Event Impact (Part 2): The Science of Immersion + Joy with Paul Zak

In this episode of The Fundraising Elevator, we continue our fascinating conversation with neuroscientist and author Dr. Paul J. Zak, diving deeper into the brain science behind fundraising storytelling, donor engagement, and happiness. If you missed part one, be sure to start there, this continuation builds on insights into why stories inspire generosity and action in the nonprofit sector.
Dr. Zak explains his groundbreaking concept of neurologic immersion which is a blend of attention and emotional resonance in the brain that predicts which stories move people to act. He introduces the SIRTA framework (Staging, Immersion, Relevance, Targeting, Action), a practical tool that nonprofits can use to design donor experiences that increase connection, engagement, and giving. We explore real-world research on how immersive storytelling in fundraising videos drives donations, why staging matters for successful fundraising events, and how to lower barriers for donors by building camaraderie and relevance. 
The conversation also shifts into the science of happiness, exploring Dr. Zak’s newest book, The Little Book of Happiness. He shares how high-value social experiences not only strengthen donor relationships but also enhance well-being, increase generosity, and even extend our lives. With wisdom rooted in both neuroscience and the practices of Benjamin Franklin, Dr. Zak offers a roadmap for living more connected, fulfilled, and generous lives.
If you’re a nonprofit professional looking to improve donor retention, boost fundraising results, and create more impactful donor experiences, this episode is packed with actionable insights at the intersection of neuroscience, storytelling, and nonprofit fundraising strategies.
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Feathr: https://www.feathr.co/
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
 
Dr. Paul J. Zak
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-j-zak-91123510/
 
| RESOURCES |
Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Propose a Podcast Episode: https://swaimstrategies.com/propose-a-podcast-episode/
Get Event Help Right Now with Gala 911: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/gala-911/
Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
Learn More About the Elevate Conference: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
Get Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
Join Swaim Strategies on Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
Connect with The AV Department:  https://theavdept.com/
Connect with Paul Zak: https://pauljzak.com/
Immersion: https://pauljzak.com/books/
The Little Book of Happiness: https://pauljzak.com/books/
Paul Zak TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFAdlU2ETjU

Episode #89 | The ONE Episode Every Fundraiser Must Hear (Part 1): Game-Changing Research on Storytelling That Will Transform Your Events Forever with Dr. Paul J. Zak

Welcome to Season Three of The Fundraising Elevator! In this special two-part opener, hosts Sam and Kristin sit down with world-renowned neuroscientist Dr. Paul Zak, a pioneer in neuroeconomics, neuromanagement, and neuromarketing. Best known for discovering oxytocin’s role in trust and human connection, Dr. Zak brings cutting-edge insights on donor psychology, empathy, and storytelling in fundraising.
In Part One, we explore the science of giving: why humans are wired to cooperate, how oxytocin fuels generosity and trust, and why storytelling is the most effective tool for donor engagement. Dr. Zak breaks down how attention, emotion, and immersion inspire people to act—and shares proven strategies for fundraisers to design high-impact campaigns and events. From crafting stories that spark empathy to creating immersive donor experiences, this episode offers practical applications backed by neuroscience.
If you’re a nonprofit professional, fundraiser, or development leader looking to increase donor trust, deepen engagement, and inspire generosity, this episode delivers evidence-based strategies to elevate your fundraising success.
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Feathr: https://www.feathr.co/
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
 
Dr. Paul J. Zak
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-j-zak-91123510/
 
| RESOURCES |
Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Propose a Podcast Episode: https://swaimstrategies.com/propose-a-podcast-episode/
Get Event Help Right Now with Gala 911: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/gala-911/
Book Consulting Time with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
Learn More About the Elevate Conference: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
Get Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
Join Swaim Strategies on Substack: https://substack.com/@swaimstrategies
Connect with The AV Department:  https://theavdept.com/
Connect with Paul Zak: https://pauljzak.com/
Empathy, Neurochemistry, and the Dramatic Arc: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1a7tiA1Qzo
Immersion: https://pauljzak.com/books/
The Little Book of Happiness: https://pauljzak.com/books/
No One Wants to Read Your Sh*t: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30556551-nobody-wants-to-read-your-sh-t
SIX: your6.com
“Virtual Reality Education Increases Neurologic Immersion and Empathy in Nursing Students”:
https://www.mdpi.com/2039-4403/15/9/336
Paul Zak TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFAdlU2ETjU
The Value Measurement: https://www.getimmersion.com/

ENCORE | Episode #59 | Event Content Capture with Christine Campbell

In this episode Christine Campbell, the Marketing Manager at The AV Department, dives into strategies for effectively capturing and utilizing content from live events. Hear  insights on simple tools and techniques to ensure you maximize the value of your event content. Learn the fundamentals of capturing high-quality content during live events and why it's crucial for your marketing efforts. Find out how to repurpose event content across various platforms to extend its reach and lifespan. Hear Christine’s advice on overcoming common challenges in event content capture and distribution. This episode offers actionable tips to enhance your content strategy and boost audience engagement.
 
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. This podcast is a production of elevatenonprofit.com.
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Christine Campbell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-av-department
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avenueportland
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theavdepartment
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin:
Sam - https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Kristin - https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
 
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
 
Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
AVENUE: https://avenueportland.com/
The AV Department Video Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@theavdepartment

ENCORE | Episode #73 | Easy Auctions with Jason Allen Champion

In this episode we talk to Jason Allen Champion, Vice President of National Partnerships for Winspire, to discuss how consignment auctions can be a strategic tool for nonprofit fundraising. Consignment auctions offer nonprofits a low-risk way to enhance fundraising efforts while creating memorable donor experiences that reinforce organizational missions. Jason shares his expertise on maximizing revenue through consignment auction packages and provides insights on creating mission-aligned experiences that resonate with donors. We explore online auction strategies, creating packages, creative fundraising ideas, and the critical work of donor stewardship that can be a part of the experience of the packages they win at your auction. 
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Jason Allen Champion
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-allen-champion-802a7b13/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamwinspire/
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time:
Strategy Consulting with Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Story Consulting with Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
 
Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
 
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
 
Winspire: https://www.winspireme.com/

ENCORE | Episode #51 | Event Menu Magic with Chef Kiara Hardy

In this episode, we chat with Chef Kiara Hardy of Kitchen Killa Culinary Solutions about the powerful role food plays in creating unforgettable event experiences. Learn how to collaborate with your event caterer to design an immersive atmosphere that aligns with your vision and budget. Chef Kiara shares her expert insights on the seasonality of food, different types of service, venue kitchen logistics, and how to tailor your menu to match your crowd’s dynamics. Don’t miss this chance to discover how thoughtful food choices can elevate your next fundraising event and create lasting impressions.
 
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. This podcast is a production of elevatenonprofit.com.
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kiara Hardy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiara-hardy-265836270/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitchen_killa/
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time with
Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with 
Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
 
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
 
Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
 
Kitchen Killa Culinary Solutions: https://kitchenkilla.com/
 
Kitchen Killa Fry Seasoning: https://www.kitchenkillashop.com/product-page/fry-seasoning
Kitchen Killa at Multnomah Whiskey Library: https://mwlpdx.com/event/kitchen-killa-brunch-series/

ENCORE | Episode #56| Design the Perfect Gala Program with Kristin Steele

In this episode our very own storytelling expert Kristin Steele explores the art and impact of storytelling in nonprofit fundraising. Discover how strategic storytelling can connect with donors on an emotional level, making your mission unforgettable and inspiring action at your next fundraising event. Kristin shares essential strategies for crafting relatable, emotionally driven narratives that can transform complex issues into powerful stories, helping donors connect deeply with your cause.
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. This podcast is a production of elevatenonprofit.com.
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time with
Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with 
Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Mariah Monique
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst
Instagram: @thesponsrshipcatalyst
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time with
Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with 
Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
 
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
 
Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
 
“Storytelling Animal” by Jonathan Gottschall: https://www.jonathangottschall.com/storytelling-animal
 
“Stories that Stick” by Kindra Hall: https://www.storiesthatstick.com/
 
“Wired for Story” by Lisa Cron: http://wiredforstory.com/wired-for-story
 
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html
 
About the Event Arc: https://swaim-strategies.slab.com/posts/event-arc-for-in-person-galas-jrqaxeea
 
Emcee Best Practices: https://swaim-strategies.slab.com/public/posts/c6b2kgm6
 
Storytelling Best Practices: https://swaim-strategies.slab.com/public/posts/aomiuvxd
Camp Fire Columbia Org Video: https://youtu.be/kGPStrdYk4M

ENCORE | Episode #68| Radical Hospitality with Kimberly Wilson

In this episode, we welcome Kimberly A.C. Wilson, Executive Director of Hedgebrook, to explore how hybrid events and radical hospitality are transforming fundraising. Hedgebrook, a writing residency for women-identified authors, has evolved its annual event, EQUIVOX, into a powerful hybrid experience that unites a global community of writers, readers, and supporters.
Kimberly shares insights into the impact of virtual accessibility, the power of storytelling in fundraising, and the deep connections fostered between writers and readers. We discuss how Hedgebrook leveraged hybrid events to raise over half a million dollars, expanded donor engagement beyond geographical limits, and created a model for other organizations to follow.
Plus, get a sneak peek at this year's EQUIVOX, featuring speakers Claudia Castro Luna, Jacqueline Woodson and Dr. Seema Yasmin, and learn how you can tune in for free. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, an event planner, or just passionate about the arts, this episode is packed with insights on crafting immersive, inclusive fundraising experiences.
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
DC Auctions: https://dc-auctions.com/
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kimberly A.C. Wilson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hedgebrook
Google: https://www.hedgebrook.org/
 
Resources
 sizes and industries while debunking the myth that only large corporations offer worthwhile sponsorships. Mariah stresses the importance of connecting with "sponsorship gatekeepers" and approaching sponsors as equal partners, confident in the value nonprofits provide through their cultivated audiences. By understanding sponsors' goals and moving beyond transactional interactions, nonprofits can build enduring partnerships that benefit all parties involved.
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Mariah Monique
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst
Instagram: @thesponsrshipcatalyst
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time with
Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with 
Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
 
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
 
Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
 
Hedgebrook: https://www.hedgebrook.org/
 
EQUIVOX event livestream: https://www.avcast.me/equivox
Virtual tickets to the Elevate Conference: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/

ENCORE | Episode #55 | Building Community with Kim Fountain

In this episode, Kim Fountain from the San Diego LGBTQ Community Center discusses the profound importance of creating intentional spaces—both literal and figurative—where individuals can connect, belong, and thrive. Kim delves into the concept of "safe spaces," redefining them as co-created environments of respect, belonging, and creativity, where individuals are inspired to take risks—both personal and collective—that generate joy and progress. Kim shares moving stories from her work, including the magic of collaborative events like the San Diego Center’s gala, where joy united 800 attendees in celebration. Through these experiences, we see how moments of connection spark movements and turn guests into evangelists for a cause. Tune in to learn how creating spaces for belonging and celebration not only uplifts communities but also fuels the passion and resources necessary for meaningful change.
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kim Fountain
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-fountain-0a204328/
Google: https://thecentersd.org/
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time with
Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with 
Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
 
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
 
Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
 
San Diego LGBT Center: https://thecentersd.org/
 
Association of Fundraising Professionals: https://afpglobal.org/
CenterLink: https://www.lgbtqcenters.org/

ENCORE | Episode #78 | Event Sponsorship with Mariah Monique

In this episode Mariah Monique of The Sponsorship Catalyst shares her expertise on nonprofit sponsorship strategies. Drawing from her experience on both sides of sponsorship relationships, Mariah brings great insight and strategy to event sponsorship. Despite economic uncertainties, sponsorship budgets are growing as companies recognize the value of experiential marketing. She advises nonprofits to diversify their sponsorship portfolio across businesses of different sizes and industries while debunking the myth that only large corporations offer worthwhile sponsorships. Mariah stresses the importance of connecting with "sponsorship gatekeepers" and approaching sponsors as equal partners, confident in the value nonprofits provide through their cultivated audiences. By understanding sponsors' goals and moving beyond transactional interactions, nonprofits can build enduring partnerships that benefit all parties involved.
Loving The Fundraising Elevator? Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast. It really helps other people find the show. 
 
This Episode Brought to You by: 
Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Utilizing over 20 years of nonprofit event strategy and production expertise, Swaim Strategies coaches and teaches organizations how to increase the impact of their fundraising events. 
 
The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
As a full-service event AV and video production partner, The AV Department’s technical event production and media content generation provide you with a range of experience and talent from a partner who wants to know you and work together year after year. 
 
Greater Giving: https://go.greatergiving.com
 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram (Swaim Strategies): https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
 
Mariah Monique
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/thesponsorshipcatalyst
Instagram: @thesponsrshipcatalyst
 
Resources
Book Consulting Time with
Sam: https://calendly.com/consultingwithsam
Book Consulting Time with 
Kristin: https://calendly.com/eventstorytelling
 
Learn More About Elevate and the Elevate Conference for Your Fundraising Events: https://swaimstrategies.com/elevate-conference/
 
Planning a Successful Major Donor Event: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#book
 
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
 
Connect with Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Event Sponsorship Article: https://constellation.take2services.com/blog/3-things-your-nonprofit-must-do-when-securing-event-sponsors
 
Sponsorship Deck Template: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/sponsorship-deck-template/
 
Nonprofit Event Sponsorship Accelerator: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/nesacourse/?coupon=NESA2025
 
If you join the course they can use code NESA2025 for $200 off of the Nonprofit Event Sponsorship Accelerator course.
 
Event Sponsorship Webinar: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/event-sponsors/
 
Sponsor Brand Benefit List: https://thesponsorshipcatalyst.thrivecart.com/event-sponsors/
 
Email: mariah@thesponsorshipcatalyst.com