The Fundraising Elevator Podcast

Episode #52 | Say the Magic Words with Frank Velásquez Jr.

In this episode, we explore the critical shift from deficit-framed language to asset-based language in the nonprofit sector with special guest Frank Velásquez Jr. Leading with deficit often reinforces harmful stereotypes and systemic disparities, negatively impacting both organizations and the communities they serve. By embracing asset-based language, nonprofits can highlight strengths and opportunities, fostering transformative change. Learn how adopting this approach engages donors from a place of support, strengthens connections to your mission, and drives sustainable impact. Discover actionable insights for moving your organization toward more empowering, community-centered storytelling.
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.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Frank Velásquez Jr.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/4-da-hood-llc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4dahoodllc/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
Ascending Leaders in Color: 4dahood.com/alc-fellowship
4 Da Hood: https://4dahood.com/
Access free introductory guide to using asset-based language: https://4-da-hood.ck.page/ca93d5f149
The Ethical Nonprofit Summit: https://habramarketing.com/summit/

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 Episode Brought to You by: Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Chef Kiara Hardy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiara-hardy-265836270/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitchen_killa/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
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/

Episode #50 | Event Environments with Kurt Beadell

In this episode, Kurt Beadell, Creative Director and Owner of Vibrant Table, shares expert tips on how to create a memorable and impactful fundraising event without breaking the bank. Discover budget-friendly event design strategies that deliver a ‘wow’ experience for your attendees. Kurt offers practical ideas for making simple yet powerful shifts to maximize your time and financial resources. Learn how to design emotionally engaging and immersive events that support your nonprofit’s mission while captivating your audience and inspiring action.
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.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kurt Beadell
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-beadell-62355578/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksbpdx/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
Vibrant Table: https://vibranttable.com/

Episode #49 | Storytelling as an Organizing Tool with Devin Boss

In this episode we dive deep into the world of video storytelling for nonprofits with acclaimed documentary and short film creator Devin Boss. Discover how storytelling can transform your nonprofit's mission, inspire action, and turn passive viewers into active supporters. Devin shares his production process, offering practical tools and insights for using video to boost connections to your cause. Learn how to engage your audience, highlight your impact, and motivate change through the art of visual storytelling. Tune in for inspiration and actionable tips.
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.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Devin Boss
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-boss-572669154/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devindeeboss/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
Native Land: https://native-land.ca/
Rose City Justice: https://rcjpdx.org/
Paul Zak: https://pauljzak.com/
North East Production YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Northeastproduction
North East Production: https://www.northeastprod.com/
Black Friday: https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=898402~5f969332-ec94-41af-822d-5c7ec8f2ca2b&epguid=ede4c806-6667-4a5f-86d4-f609b082addf&

Episode #48 | Cracking the Code with Kristin Steele + Samantha Swaim

This week Kristin and Sam explore key trends shaping the current fundraising and event landscapes. As nonprofits face a rapidly changing environment, understanding where to focus your efforts is more important than ever. Sam explores how events can create movements, looking to current events like national political conventions and concerts as examples. Kristin explores how impactful stories are being told and the neuroscience behind it, offering ways to tell stories at your organization that are empowering instead of disenfranchising. This episode is packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking 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.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
The Art of Gathering: https://elevatenonprofit.com/all-books-ebooks/
The Storytelling Animal: https://elevatenonprofit.com/all-books-ebooks/
Nonprofit Storytelling Conference: https://nonprofitstorytellingconference.com/
The Ethical Nonprofit Summit: https://events.ringcentral.com/events/the-ethical-nonprofit-summit/registration
Paul Zak, Neuroeconomics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHeqQAKHh3M
APA Inclusive Language Guidelines: https://www.apa.org/about/apa/equity-diversity-inclusion/language-guide.pdf
Current Events and Fundraising Insight Articles by Sam Swaim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/recent-activity/articles/

Episode #47 | Live from the Raise Conference

In this special episode, Kristin and Sam take The Fundraising Elevator on the road to the Raise Conference in Nashville, a gathering of top nonprofit leaders and fundraising professionals. Broadcasting in partnership with Raise Nation Radio, they bring you highlights, insights, and key takeaways from the event. Hear expert advice and fresh perspectives from some of the most influential voices in fundraising to give you strategies for success in an evolving landscape.
We chat with: Cherian Koshy of Kindsight Julia Campbell of J. Campbell Social Marketing Josh Hirsch of Soukup Strategic Solutions Derria Ford of the Martha O’Bryan Center and Kevin Spykerman of Auction Packages Thank you to Raise Nation Radio, OneCause, DonorDock, Utopia Experience, Creative Shizzle, and Confessions with Jess + Cindy.
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.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
Raise Nation Radio: https://www.onecause.com/raise-nation-podcast/
OneCause: https://www.onecause.com/
DonorDock: https://www.donordock.com/
Creative Shizzle: https://www.creativeshizzle.com/
Confessions podcast: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com/
Utopia Experience: https://www.utopiaexperience.com/
Kindsight: https://kindsight.io/
J Campbell Social Marketing: https://jcsocialmarketing.com/
Soukup Strategic Solutions: https://soukupstrategicsolutions.com/
Martha O’Bryan Center: https://marthaobryan.org/
Auction Packages: https://www.auctionpackages.com/

Episode #46 | Political Campaign Fundraising with CM Hall

On this episode of The Fundraising Elevator, dive into CM Hall’s inspiring journey from activism to becoming the first out queer person elected to the Newport City Council. CM shares her story of advocacy, fundraising, and how nonprofit leaders can make a difference in politics. We also look at the nuances of fundraising for political campaigns and nonprofit events and how the House Party model can work for both sectors. 
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.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
CM Hall
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cm-hall-217b766/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
Her Own Wings Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552097647142
League of Oregon Cities Women's Caucus: https://www.orcities.org/about/who-we-are/loc-womens-caucus/her-own-wings-podcast
Emerge Oregon: https://or.emergeamerica.org/

Season 2 Launch! Episode #45 | Exploring Planned Giving with Jen Love

We’re launching Season 2 with a bang! Join Jen Love, a renowned fundraising strategist and storyteller, as she delves into the power of planned giving. Jen explains how thoughtful storytelling can transform donor relationships and inspire legacy gifts. Whether you’re part of a large nonprofit or a small organization just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiration to help you succeed in planned giving.
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.comUtilizing 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: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Jen Love
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agentjenlove/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
Jen Love Email: jen@agentsofgood.org
Agents of Good: https://agentsofgood.org/

Episode #15 | ENCORE | Board Engagement With Susan Howlett

During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on how your board can best support your next event. This week on The Fundraising Elevator we talk to nonprofit fundraising thought leader, Susan Howlett, all about how board engagement can be the secret sauce in the fundraising success at your organization.
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.comUtilizing 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. 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Susan Howlett
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-howlett-3127005/
| RESOURCES |
Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/
"Boards on Fire: Inspiring Leaders to Raise Money Joyfully": www.susanhowlett.com
Tarnside Curve of Involvement: https://susanhowlett.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Tarnside-Curve-of-Involvement.pdf
Free shipping on books purchased on www.susanhowlett.com with the coupon code SWAIM.

Episode #13 | ENCORE | Board Leadership with Lisa Watson

During our summer break we are re-airing one of our favorite episodes to help you prepare for fall fundraising season. This week we're focused on engaging your board. In this episode of The Fundraising Elevator we talk to seasoned leader and board member Lisa Watson about what effective board leadership can look like and how that can pave the way for a more impactful nonprofit. She shares what’s needed for board members to be successful and also what it looks like when it’s time for board members to go. She shares examples of what successful collaborations between board members and staff can look like and how that variety of perspectives and skills can really benefit an organization.
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.comUtilizing 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. 
Speakers
Samantha Swaim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-swaim-a28a9a4/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Kristin Steele
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-steele777/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swaimstrategies/
Lisa Watson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisalovespdx/
| RESOURCES |Book Consulting Time with Sam and Kristin: https://swaimstrategies.com/solutions/#consulting
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 Swaim Strategies: https://swaimstrategies.com
Connect with The AV Department: https://theavdept.com/