Building Authentic Relationships

feb 4, 2025

In this episode, Veritus Group’s Karen Kendrick chats with strategist Nicola "Nick" Khoury about building authentic donor relationships. They explore the importance of curiosity, transparency, and clear expectations, as well as understanding donor preferences, embracing feedback, and handling rejection to strengthen trust.

January Checklist for Fundraisers

Jan 9, 2025

In this podcast episode, Jeff is joined by colleagues Diana Frazier and Edie Dahlen for a great discussion about the key strategies that fundraisers should implement to start their new year and how they can prepare and plan to surpass last year’s goals. 

Three High Impact Strategies to Do Before 12/31

Dec 19, 2024

In this podcast episode, Jeff is joined by colleagues Matt Korn and Theresa Tapocsi for a great discussion about how to prepare for and approach the final week of the year, and make these final seven days count towards your revenue goals.  

The State of Relational Fundraising: What We’re Seeing Across the Sector!

Dec 10, 2024

Relational fundraising is central to Veritus, emphasizing long-term donor relationships over immediate financial gains, viewing donors as essential partners.

Don't Cut That Budget!

Nov 24, 2024

At Veritus, we’re all about relational fundraising, but too often, we hear about non-profit leaders making random budget cuts that negatively impact this tried-and-true approach.

Are You Made for Management?

Nov 12, 2024

Leadership involves a unique skillset focused on achieving success through others. In this podcast, Jeff and guest Greg Gibbs discuss if management suits your career and offer tips for improving managerial skills.

Burnout & Self-Compassion in Fundraising

Oct 22, 2024

Burnout is common as fundraisers are overworked and underpaid without adequate support. In this podcast, Karen Kendrick and mindfulness expert Megan Whitney discuss using self-compassion to combat exhaustion and share stress-relief practices.

The Art of the Handoff

Oct 15, 2024

In this podcast episode, Jeff, Theresa, and Matt share their top tips and best practices for handling donor handoffs, shifting your thinking, and transitioning members of your caseload.

Let People Do Their Jobs

Sept 11, 2024

Between unnecessary organizational tasks, activity-oriented metrics, meetings that aren’t related to their donors, and community events, fundraisers lose their focus, have less impact, and solicit less giving. 

Preparing for a High-Impact Fall and Year-End Fundraising Season

Aug 20, 2024

Debi Dunham and Jarrod Williams join Jeff to discuss strategies for a successful year-end fundraising season.

Re-Release: Using Permission-Based Asking with Your Donors and Securing Meetings

Aug 6, 2024

Karen Kendrick and Debi Dunham explore the benefits of Permission-Based Asking™  in donor relationships.

Special Episode: Live from the AADO Conference

July 10, 2024

Our team spoke with AADO CEO Birgit Burton, The Empathy Agency Founder Nneka Allen, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Senior Advisor Christopher Beck about their projects and the journey toward racial justice in the non-profit sector. 

Do You Know the Hidden Potential in Your Donor File?

Jun 18, 2024

Theresa Tapocsi and Amy Chapman discuss the free Donor File Assessment with Jeff, highlighting its potential to reveal hidden opportunities for relational giving.

Practical Tips for Facilitating a Donor Meeting

Jun 5, 2024

In this podcast, Karen and Matt offer practical tips for fundraisers on effectively facilitating donor meetings, addressing common challenges and utilizing the Permission-Based Asking™ model to enhance donor relationships.

How Mid-Level and Direct Response Can Partner Together

may 21, 2024

In this episode, Becca Burgess and Kara Ansotegui discuss how aligning mid-level and direct response teams can strengthen your donor pipeline and improve relationships at every giving stage.

Measuring Metrics That Matter

may 14, 2024

In this episode, Jeff, Matt Korn, and Debi Dunham discuss the key fundraising metrics that matter most and how managers can support their teams in reaching these goals.

What to Do When You Inherit a Caseload

april 24, 2024

Inheriting a donor caseload can be challenging. In this episode, Matt Gill and Diana Frazier share tips for managing the transition smoothly and strengthening donor relationships.

Mapping the Donor Journey: A Pipeline Health Checklist

april 9, 2024

Is your organization supporting the full donor journey? In this episode, Richard and Jeff discuss five key areas to improve donor relationships from acquisition to planned giving.

How to Get a Donor Meeting Back on Track

mar 19, 2024

In this episode, we share tips on preparing for donor meetings and keeping them focused, while respecting everyone’s time.

Celebrating Women in Fundraising, Featuring Yolanda F. Johnson

mar 4, 2024

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Yolanda F. Johnson joins Jeff to discuss how women are shaping fundraising and supporting diversity in the sector.

Yes, You Do Need to Ask All Year Long!

Feb 20, 2024

Many fundraisers neglect to ask for donations, yet it's crucial to their role. Understanding donors' preferences allows for year-round giving opportunities. Experts from Minnesota Public Radio and Bread for the World discuss the importance of consistent asking beyond transactional approaches.

Working From Your Energy: Bringing Your Best Self to Your Work With Donors

Feb 8, 2024

In this episode, Karen and Renita share strategies for when you feel stuck or burned out, helping you shift your energy and find more satisfaction in your work with donors.

How to Get Yourself Transitioned into the New Year

jan 9, 2024

As you wrap up year-end tasks and plan for 2024, this episode with Theresa Tapocsi and Edie Dahlen covers key priorities for fundraisers and leaders in the new year.

How to Be an Effective Non-Profit Leader and Manager

dec 19, 2023

Many fundraisers feel unsupported by their managers. In this episode, Karen and Jeff share strategies for improving leadership and inspiring your fundraising team to do their best work.

An Interview with the American Brain Foundation

dec 5, 2023

Jeff and Diana interview Jane Ransom and Lisa Dahlberg from the American Brain Foundation about turning an unexpected $100,000 gift into a multi-million-dollar commitment. Learn how this can happen for your organization.

How to Meaningfully Transition a Donor Relationship

nov 28, 2023

Karen Kendrick, Diana Frazier, and Kara Ansotegui share tips for smoothly transitioning donor relationships while keeping donors engaged and valued.

It’s Time to Move on From Moves Management

nov 17, 2023

Richard and Jeff discuss how moves management has become too metric-driven and offer an alternative approach that prioritizes real donor relationships.

How The Veritus Way Changed Our Work with Partners: An Interview with the East Texas Food Bank

oct 24, 2023

In this episode, Alex Fruth and Hannah Harris from the East Texas Food Bank share how adopting The Veritus Way has helped deepen donor relationships and increase revenue.

How to Talk About Fundraising Within Your Organization

oct 10, 2023

In this episode, we share tips and language to help you communicate the importance of relational fundraising within your organization and get everyone aligned and supportive.

The Basics You Still Don’t Have Down

Sept 29, 2023

In this episode, we answer common questions about fundraising best practices to help you master the basics and boost your success.

The Three Legs of a Successful Planned Giving Program

Sept 14, 2023

In this episode, we discuss the three key components of a successful planned giving program and how to build a system that supports fundraisers in securing more planned gifts for your mission.

How to Be More Efficient in Your Year-End Planning

aug 22, 2023

In this episode, we share tips to help you streamline your year-end planning, making it more efficient, creative, and impactful—so it’s no longer overwhelming.

Re-Release: What’s Holding You Back from Investing in Major Gifts?

aug 8, 2023

In this re-release of a popular episode, Jeff and Richard discuss the obstacles preventing investment in major gifts, the average ROI from a mature program, and the key elements needed for success.

Re-Release: Can We All Just Get Along?

jul 25, 2023

In this re-release, Jeff and Richard discuss the importance of collaboration in fundraising, highlighting how improved communication between departments enhances donor care and supports successful giving.

Re-Release: Five Things Every Fundraiser Should Do in the Summer

jul 11, 2023

In this 2021 re-release, Jeff and Lisa Robertson share five summer strategies to set you up for a successful year-end, including creative donor outreach and professional development tips.

How to Identify the BEST Candidate in Your Hiring Pool

jun 28, 2023

Hiring fundraisers has become even more challenging post-pandemic. In this episode, Jeff, Karen, and guest Paul Towne discuss why recruitment is tough and share tips for attracting and selecting the right candidates.

Dealing with Boundaries and Inappropriate Situations with Donors

jun 13, 2023

Fundraisers often face boundary challenges with donors. In this episode, Rachel Wyley joins Jeff and Karen to discuss how to set and uphold boundaries.

Re-Release: 7 Ways to Stand Out with Your Donors

may 26, 2023

Your donors likely support multiple organizations, making it tough to stand out. In this 2021 re-release, Richard and Jeff share seven ways to build authentic relationships and engage donors as partners in your mission.

Everything You Need to Know About the Latest Fundraising Effectiveness Project Report

may 9, 2023

The 2023 Fundraising Effectiveness Project report shows a -4% drop in major giving revenue. In this episode, Jeff and Richard discuss the findings and share strategies to reverse the trend and increase donations.

Everyone Needs a Coach

apr 25, 2023

Coaching is essential for fundraising success, providing support and guidance to overcome challenges. In this episode, we discuss why every fundraiser needs a coach to maximize their impact.

Major Gifts Is NOT a 9-5 Job

apr 11, 2023

Many organizations expect fundraisers to work 40-hour office weeks, plus extra hours for events and meetings. To retain top talent, this must change. In today’s episode, we discuss how to create an environment that lets fundraisers nurture donor relationships without burning out.

You (Yes, YOU) Can Talk Confidently About Planned Giving!

mar 28, 2023

If you’ve been hesitant to discuss planned giving, you’re not alone! In this episode, Jeff and Richard chat with Robert Shafis, our Director of Planned Giving Services, to share tools and strategies for confidently bringing up planned giving with donors.

Boards + Fundraising: How to Create a Thriving Partnership

mar 14, 2023

Are your board members actively engaged in fundraising for your non-profit? And if not – how can you encourage them to get involved? This episode will give you some new perspective on how to support your board members so they can do more for your mission.

Moving From Money to Mission: How to Transform Donor Conversations

Feb 28, 2023

Luke Wilson, CEO of A Rocha Canada, discusses how prioritizing mission over money can enhance donor relationships.

How Self-Love Transforms Everything, Including Fundraising

Feb 14, 2023

In this episode, we discuss self-love and setting boundaries to make space for renewal. By practicing self-care, you'll enhance your role as a fundraiser and build stronger donor relationships through self-awareness and respect.

Are You Properly Nurturing Your Donor Pipeline?

Jan 24, 2023

In this episode, Richard and Jeff discuss the components of the donor pipeline and how to invest across each stage of the donor journey.

Why Outsourcing Management Is Key to Your Success

Jan 10, 2023

Successful fundraising programs depend on great managers who can provide fundraisers with feedback, accountability, and encouragement. It’s a full-time job, and it requires a certain set of skills.

5 Things to Do When You Get Back from the Holidays

Dec 20, 2022

When you get back to the office or start up your computer again after a holiday, it always takes a while to get re-oriented. If you do a little prep now, you’ll thank yourself when you come back with a clear gameplan to follow!

Creative Ways to Stand Out at Year-End

Dec 6, 2022

While it's tempting to increase communication at year-end, more frequent messages aren't necessarily more effective. This podcast offers tips for creating engaging and relevant communications that will capture donors' attention.

Bringing Your Authentic Self to Your Work

Oct 26, 2022

The Veritus Way in Action: Interviews with Our Clients

Sept 20, 2022

We’ve invited a couple of our clients to share about their experiences with the Veritus approach to fundraising. Listen in to learn about how they approached integrating The Veritus Way into their work, the challenges they faced and how they overcame them.

How to Approach Fundraising When Your Mission Doesn’t Fit in a Neat Box

Jul 25, 2022

On today’s podcast episode, Jeff is joined by Karen Kendrick, our Senior Director of Learning at Veritus Group, for a conversation about how organizations with an indirect impact can talk about their mission in a way that resonates with donors.

Moving Out of a Membership Mindset

Jun 21, 2022

In today's podcast, Joyce MacDonald, CEO of Greater Public, discusses the impact of shifting from a membership-only model to mid and major gift fundraising programs.

Keep, Lift, Move: The Three Objectives of a Successful Mid-Level Program

Jun 07, 2022

For this podcast episode, Richard and Jeff hand it over to Lisa and Kara, two of our in-house experts on mid-level programs, for a conversation about how to approach your mid-level goals and KPIs so that you can retain more donors and move those who are ready into major gifts.

How to Approach Donor Stewardship in Planned Giving

May 24, 2022

On this podcast episode, Jeff and Richard are joined by Bob Shafis, our Director of Planned Giving Services, for a conversation about best practices in legacy donor stewardship.

Supporting Black & Brown Fundraisers in the Non-Profit Sector

May 10, 2022

This is an important conversation all leaders need to be a part of, which is why we invited a special guest to join us for this episode. Kia Croom is a fundraising executive with over 20 years of experience.

From Transactional to Relationship-Based Fundraising

Apr 27, 2022

This podcast episode features a replay of a webinar we hosted last month featuring special guest Ruth Ann Dailey, the Senior Vice President of Philanthropy at ACS.

How to Be a Champion for Organizational Change

Apr 19, 2022

In this podcast episode, Richard and Jeff interview a special guest, Ruth Ann Dailey, the Senior Vice President of Philanthropy at the American Cancer Society. Ruth Ann played a critical role in championing change in how ACS approached major gifts. And the result? They were able to double their major and mid-level revenue in just three years.

What’s Holding You Back From Investing in Major Gifts?

Apr 05, 2022

In this podcast episode, Richard and Jeff will speak to the ROI of major gifts, as well as the foundational elements of a successful major gifts program.

Does ‘The Veritus Way’ Work for Smaller Organizations?

Mar 22, 2022

In this podcast episode, Richard and Jeff are joined by Theresa Tapocsi, one of our incredible Client Experience Leaders. Theresa will speak to her own experience as a fundraiser in a small organization, and what she learned while trying (and sometimes failing) to implement The Veritus Way on a small scale. Wherever you are in your fundraising journey, we know this will inspire you.

How to Make the Case for Admin Support

Mar 09, 2022

In this podcast episode, Jeff and Richard offer up some numbers to help illustrate the economic impact of hiring back-end office support for fundraisers.

Do You Need a Legacy Society?

Feb 23, 2022

In this podcast episode, Bob Shafis, our Director of Planned Giving Services at Veritus, talks with Richard and Jeff about what to consider when setting up a planned giving society to ensure your success.

The Impact of a Toxic Workplace

Feb 08, 2022

In this podcast episode, Richard, Jeff, and Karen talk about why more than half of fundraisers say they plan to leave their organization in the next few years, and they offer advice on how you can reverse this trend by creating an environment where people find joy in their work.

Creating Collaboration Between Capital Campaigns and Major Gifts

Jan 26, 2022

In this podcast episode, Jeff chats with Amy Eisenstein, CEO and Co-Founder of Capital Campaign Toolkit, and gets answers to some commonly asked questions about capital campaigns.

Get Your Donors Close to the Need

Jan 11, 2022

In this podcast episode, Richard and Jeff share why bringing donors close to the need is such a core part of our fundraising philosophy. They focus on specific tips that will help you draw yourself and your donors closer to the problem your organization is committed to solving.

5 Things Fundraisers Need to Do Next Week

Dec 20, 2021

As the year comes to a close and you wrap up your year-end fundraising efforts, there are a few strategies and tactics you can do to make an impact next week.

The Confidence to Have Tough Conversations

Dec 15, 2021

Jeff Schreifels hosts a podcast with Karen Kendrick and Brandyn Campbell to explore handling tough conversations respectfully.

You Can’t Thank Your Donors Too Much!

Nov 10, 2021

In today’s episode, Richard and Jeff talk about why showing gratitude is so important in building meaningful donor relationships and in your own mental well-being.

An Interview with the Editors of Collecting Courage

Oct 26, 2021

In today’s podcast episode, Richard and Jeff talk with the editors of Collecting Courage, a collection of stories from Black fundraisers in the U.S. and Canada. Nneka Allen, Nicole Salmon, and Camila Pereira each have powerful stories to tell.

Horror Stories from the Field

Oct 21, 2021

In today’s episode, Richard and Jeff respond to a variety of questions submitted by listeners and readers that cover how to know when you need to hire another fundraiser, how to advocate for admin support, and more. 

Answering Your Most Pressing Questions

Oct 7, 2021

In today’s episode, Richard and Jeff respond to a variety of questions submitted by listeners and readers that cover how to know when you need to hire another fundraiser, how to advocate for admin support, and more. 

Do Membership Programs Suppress Giving?

Sep 23, 2021

In this episode, Richard and Jeff respond to a recent question about if membership programs really do suppress giving and share more about our perspective on the role membership programs should have at your organization.

Does Your Team Even Want to Go Back to the Office?

Sep 9, 2021

In this episode, Richard and Jeff discuss what we’re hearing from fundraisers about the transition back to the office and what the research says about whether your team can work remotely.

You Can’t Have Major Gifts Without Donor Offers

Aug 24, 2021

In today’s podcast, Jeff and Richard talk with guest, Theresa Tapocsi, who leads Veritus’ efforts helping non-profits complete our Donor Impact Portfolio (DIP).

Leading Through Change

Aug 10, 2021

In today's podcast, Richard and Jeff discuss leadership and fundraising strategies with Greg Gibbs, Executive Director of Development for the University of California, Agriculture & Natural Resources, or UCANR.

Finding Good Planned Giving Leads

Jul 26, 2021

In today’s episode, our Director of Planned Giving Services, Robert Shafis joins Jeff to talk about how you can be more effective in generating quality planned giving leads.

The Three Things Leaders Get Wrong About Mid-Level

Jul 13, 2021

In today’s podcast episode, Jeff is joined by Lisa Robertson, Veritus Group’s Client Learning and Experience Leader, who has helped many Veritus clients launch successful mid-level programs.

Five Things Every Fundraiser Should Do in the Summer

Jun 22, 2021

Today’s episode is all about what you can do during the summer, now that you have some time to think, that will help you have a successful year-end.

Embracing Overhead

Jun 8, 2021

In this episode, Richard and Jeff discuss how non-profits are hurting themselves and the sector at large, by being afraid to reveal the true cost of the operations and applying it honestly to the programs and projects that make up the work you are doing to change the world.

Not Everything We Say Is True

May 24, 2021

The podcast discusses how The Veritus Way can benefit organizations without strict adherence and features new host Karen Kendrick, with guests Lisa Robertson and Greg Gibbs.

How Likeable Are You?

May 11, 2021

In this episode, Richard and Jeff discuss 10 traits that make up likeable people, and how important they are to have as a front-line fundraiser. All of them are important, but some of them are pretty surprising.

The Donor Engagement Plan

Apr 26, 2021

We’re changing the name of the MIC and in this podcast episode, we tell you what it is and why we’re changing it, along with telling you why this tool has made a significant impact with thousands of front-line fundraisers all around the world.

No Outcomes, No Income

Apr 5, 2021

Richard and Jeff discuss three strategies to help organizations make the investment in reporting back impact so that you can retain donors and increase giving over time.

Seven Ways to Stand Out with your Donors

Mar 23, 2021

Richard and Jeff give you seven ways to stand out with your donor, so they’ll engage with you AND allow you to build an authentic relationship with them.

From $1,000 to $100,000

Mar 10, 2021

In this episode, Richard and Jeff tell you a story of how an MGO decided NOT to listen to that story in their head, and instead they reached out to that $1,000 donor – and the donor became a $95,000 donor!

More Myths in Major Gifts

Feb 19, 2021

Today’s episode debunks several myths and gets to the truth of what major gifts is really about. It continues on the theme of a previous episode in November 2020.

Answers to Your Burning Questions

Feb 1, 2021

Each week, Richard and Jeff hear from your colleagues all over the world on how they can be better fundraisers. Today’s podcast answers some of the most burning questions they get.

New Year’s Resolutions, Part Two

Jan 19, 2021

In this podcast they outline the second 3 resolutions that you may have never heard of before… however, they’re resolutions that are embodied in every successful Major Gift Officer they’ve met.

New Year’s Resolutions, Part One

Jan 5, 2021

In today’s podcast Richard and Jeff highlight 3 resolutions to start your new year. They’ll not only inspire you, but they’ll help you become a better front-line fundraiser in 2021.

The Six Economic Realities of Major Gifts

dec 21, 2020

In this podcast, Richard and Jeff talk about the Six Economic Realities of Major Gifts, which they write about in their new book, It’s Not JUST About the Donor. This lively discussion will give you the context for where major gifts should focus (donors), why you need to be patient (it takes time to build relationships) and much more.

The Donor-Facing Back Office

dec 8, 2020

In this episode, Richard and Jeff discuss why the “back office” of a major gift program is so crucial for success, and why a major gift program can’t succeed just on the backs of your front-line fundraisers.

The Biggest Barrier to Major Gift Success

nov 23, 2020

In this episode Richard and Jeff address this lack of leadership by outlining all the great leadership qualities they’ve seen where major gift programs are flourishing. Hopefully, you too will be inspired to take on these qualities that are absolutely necessary for success.

Dispelling the Myths about Major Gifts

nov 10, 2020

In today’s episode, Richard and Jeff talk about a few of these myths that, unless we bring them to light,  either they have hurt or will certainly hurt your major gift program.

Equity in the Non-Profit Workforce

Oct 27, 2020

In today’s podcast, Richard and Jeff speak with fundraiser Mazarine Treyz and Karen Kendrick of Veritus Group to discuss the inequity in fundraising, its origins, and ways to address it.

What is The Veritus Way?

Oct 6, 2020

In this podcast Richard and Jeff talk to Patrick Nugent, Sr. Vice President of Individual and Organizational fundraising at Lyric Opera Company of Chicago. He highlights how he’s used The Veritus Way in his career and at Lyric Opera, and what a difference it’s made for his organizations’ revenue.

Strategies to End the Year Strong

sep 22, 2020

In today’s episode, Richard and Jeff share some tips and strategies on how you can end your year strong. Learn what you need to review, and the steps you can take now, to ensure that you make or exceed your revenue goals for 2020.

Fifteen Questions to Help You Go Deeper with Your Donor

sep 1, 2020

In this episode, Richard and Jeff give you a little help by giving you 15 questions that will help you go deeper with your donors, toward developing real relationships with them.

Ten Ways to Get Rid of Your Donor

aug 18, 2020

In this episode, Richard and Jeff outline ten different ways that MGOs are actively trying to get rid of their donors without even knowing it. Hopefully, you aren’t practicing any of these ten.

Should MGOs Get Bonuses?

aug 4, 2020

Over the years, MGOs and managers have asked Richard and Jeff if they think MGOs should get bonuses if they meet or exceed their revenue goals. In today’s episode, they answer that question, and you might be surprised by what they say.

Five Reasons MGOs Fail

jul 21, 2020

In today’s podcast episode, Richard and Jeff discuss the five reasons MGOs fail – and you’ll be surprised that most of the reasons have nothing at all to do with the MGO.

What’s Wrong with University Major Gift Fundraising?

jul 7, 2020

In today’s rebroadcast of an episode from January, Richard and Jeff talk about their experiences with university major gift programs, tell stories about their MGOs, what their challenges are, and ultimately what can be done to turn those programs around.

Can We All Just Get Along?

Oct 29, 2019

To serve your major donors outrageously, you have to know your programs and projects so well that you’re able to inspire those donors to make a significant gift to your organization.

Can We All Just Get Along?

Oct 29, 2019

To serve your major donors outrageously, you have to know your programs and projects so well that you’re able to inspire those donors to make a significant gift to your organization.