When crisis hits—whether it's a struggling department or the entire organization—your response defines your future. This episode explores how to talk about financial distress without sounding desperate, and how to frame fundraising efforts as strategic, not survivalist. The difference? Donors don’t want to save a sinking ship—they want to fuel a mission with momentum. If you can communicate change, trust, and a path forward, you’ll do more than survive—you’ll transform.
Read MoreListen to the weekly podcast “Around with Randall” as he discusses, in just a few minutes, a topic surrounding non-profit philanthropy. Included each week are tactical suggestions listeners can use to immediately make their non-profit, and their job activities, more effective.
Find “Around with Randall” on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Email Randall with a show topic: podcast@hallettphilanthropy.com
Email Randall with a thought regarding a specific show: reeks@hallettphilanthropy.com
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Right now, too many nonprofits are frozen in place—boards and CEOs so paralyzed by funding cuts and political chaos that they’ve stopped thinking strategically altogether. When organizations stall, donors lose confidence, talented development staff grow frustrated, and transformational gifts slip through the cracks. In this episode, we unpack four practical ways fundraising professionals can respectfully ‘manage up’—from reframing strategy as a leadership duty to enlisting donor voices and phasing in focused roadmaps. You’ll hear real-world examples of how anonymous donor feedback and targeted feasibility studies have reignited momentum and unlocked six- and seven-figure gifts. Tune in to discover how to break the paralysis and turn chaos into catalytic, strategic philanthropy.
Read MoreWhat is the concept of "choice architecture" in nonprofit fundraising? How can organizations better present options to donor and strike a balance between too much and too little information? Learn how to avoid common mistakes like the "Menu of Doom," false equivalency, and overselling, and discover practical strategies for curating meaningful giving opportunities that connect with donors' passions and the mission of your nonprofit. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on refining donor relationships and maximizing philanthropic impact.
Read MoreWith fewer households making charitable gifts, annual giving is under pressure and needs a more strategic approach. Evaluating annual giving through three-five year data trends rather than single-year snapshots can better allocate resources, elevate donors into major gifts or planned giving, and create lasting cultural shifts. Annual giving isn't just about dollars—it's about building the long-term foundation for transformational philanthropy.
Read MoreIn this week’s episode of Around with Randall, we discuss the impact of positive and negative influences in our personal and professional lives, especially in the nonprofit sector. What is the science of emotional contagion, how others' emotions affect our well-being and productivity, and the importance of surrounding ourselves with positive individuals? We end with some practical advice for evaluating potential hires based on their emotional impact, highlighting the value of creating a supportive, uplifting environment for personal and organizational success.
Read MoreIn the world of philanthropy, trust is the backbone of any successful donor relationship. A recent lawsuit against the Red Cross, over their handling of restricted donations for Haiti, highlights how crucial this element is. Donors feel their contributions weren't used as promised, and that breach of trust could lead to a class action lawsuit. This situation underscores the importance of building genuine, transparent, and lasting relationships with donors, a theme central to philanthropy but often overlooked in discussions about fundraising strategy.
Read MoreIt’s that special time of year on Around with Randall, when Randall sets his predictions for 2025! This year highlights three key areas: the economy, giving trends, and the nonprofit industry's trajectory. He also discusses the potential impact of tax policy changes, the growing prominence of planned giving, and the challenges posed by a "K-shaped" economic recovery. With fewer donors contributing larger gifts, and increased emphasis on addressing basic needs like food and housing, nonprofits face a dynamic and competitive landscape. And a bonus: strategic insights to help organizations prepare for these shifts and thrive in the year ahead.
Read MoreIn this edition of Around with Randall, we examine the role hope plays in philanthropy and our communities. How does hope motivate action and foster resilience, especially in challenging times? Looking at historic examples, we see that hope is not merely an emotion, but a powerful catalyst for positive change, encouraging us to engage and uplift those around us in our quest to make the world a better place.
Read MoreAt long last, Giving USA released its philanthropic giving data for 2023. Today, we eagerly dive into the numbers and more importantly, what they mean for non-profits and those who work in support of their missions. Philanthropic giving in the United States reached approximately $557 billion- an increase in pure dollars, but how does that stack up when adjusted for inflation? Uncover what the numbers really mean in this special episode of Around with Randall.
Read MoreIn the third edition of a special five-part series we look at questions surrounding the elements cultivation. Building the relationship. Study the six must-ask questions during the cultivation process. The value of your work is rooted in your relationships - asking the right questions gets you stronger relationships which leads to greater levels of philanthropy and greater impact in your community.
Read MoreIf you're anything like Randall, you're always looking for ways to improve. How can critical thinking ensure you're challenging the status quo with every move? Listen to this podcast for Randall's tips on challenging the status quo.
Read MoreWhat is the connection between Valentine's Day and philanthropy? Listen to this podcast to learn about this important connection.
Read MoreWhat does your org chart look like? Philanthropies must rethink their organizational structures to meet the needs of today's donors. Listen to this podcast to learn what your organization should do.
Read MoreJimmy and Rosalynn Carter created an amazing legacy of philanthropy after fame. Listen to this podcast to learn about their journey from the White House to building homes for families in need.
Read MoreHow can trust-based philanthropy impact your nonprofit? Listen to this podcast to learn more.
Read MoreWhat is changing - from a legal perspective - for nonprofits? Listen to this podcast to learn more.
Read MoreWhat are some "old school" fundraising methods we haven't dug into for quite some time? This podcast examines a few methods and highlights tactics you can use every day to maximize your fundraising efforts. Listen now.
Read MoreDid you know...different age groups give differently. The Greatest Generation gives differently - in amount and type - than other generations. This podcast explores the different generations, how they give, and why. Listen to learn more.
Read MoreDid you know Ben Franklin was one of the greatest philanthropists? Mr. Franklin created the first volunteer fire department, the first library, and the first public university. Listen to this podcast to learn more about Ben Franklin and the lasting impact he had on modern society.
Read MoreHow do different religions display acts of philanthropy through the holiday season? Listen here to learn more.
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