Taking Donors Seriously® is a time-tested, sustainable framework for relational fundraising. Hundreds of nonprofits and schools have used TDS over 30+ years to successfully raise the funds that are critical to their missions. Brad Layland, CEO of The FOCUS Group shares insight, stories, and tips on this podcast.
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Russ Gregg joins us to share the transformative journey of founding Hope Academy, a classical Christian school in Minneapolis that serves children living in poverty. Russ shares his personal story of faith and commitment to education, detailing the challenges faced in starting the school and the miraculous ways God provided resources and support. T…
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Bryan Bademan didn’t set out with a grand vision for Anselm House. When he joined the Christian study center at the University of Minnesota over 15 years ago, the ministry was struggling. It took five challenging years of dedicated effort just to achieve financial stability. However, as Bryan often notes, “God really loves the students and communit…
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In this conversation, Brad and Scott Brown discuss the mission and impact of Globe International, a unique mission-sending agency that empowers missionaries to pursue their individual callings. Scott shares his personal journey with Globe, the challenges faced in fundraising, and the transformative role of The FOCUS Group in enhancing their develop…
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In this conversation, Brad interviews Nick Stumbo and John Begeman from Pure Desire Ministries, discussing their mission to help individuals overcome sexual addiction and the importance of community in healing. They share personal stories of struggle and recovery, emphasizing the need for churches to address sexual issues openly. The discussion als…
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In this episode, Brad sits down with John Hudson, the founder of 100 Fold Studio, a nonprofit international architecture firm based in Montana that serves both the spiritual and physical needs of communities worldwide. John shares how 100 Fold uniquely blends architecture with vocational discipleship—designing for ministries while equipping the nex…
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Learning about Water Street Mission’s decade-long transformation to become a place that physically demonstrates the love of Christ–especially to those experiencing homelessness–would be a great story. The bonus is that, in this podcast, you will also get to know Jack Crowley who has been serving with the organization over 30 years and now serves as…
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From the Rubble: Rebuilding a Stronger Culture
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44:24Join us as we explore the transformative journey of leadership with Nigel Pollock, President of InterVarsity Canada. Tasked with revitalizing a nearly century-old ministry, Nigel began his tenure facing a $6 million debt, only to encounter the added challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic soon after. Through it all, he has focused on fostering a cultur…
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Thomas Keown grew up in Northern Ireland during “The Troubles,” a time of conflict that deeply formed him. Inspired by this experience, Thomas dedicated himself to serving others facing similar struggles and empowering them to create solutions within their own communities. In this episode, Thomas shares the powerful story behind founding Many Hopes…
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The Year-End Appeal...It's Not Impawsible
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41:12In this episode, Brad, Dan, and Jamie from The FOCUS Group bring a mix of humor and expertise to tackle a crucial topic in nonprofit fundraising: year-end appeals. Fundraising can feel daunting—Who should you target? What's the best way to execute your strategy? How do you follow up effectively? Join us as we break it all down, share actionable ins…
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Do you ever feel like God has called you to a big, challenging task? So did Rim Hinckley, founder and Head of School at The Geneva School of Manhattan. She started her career as a math teacher but soon found herself in NYC feeling the tug to respond to late pastor Tim Keller’s question: “What does this city really need?” Being faithful to answer th…
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Service, Learning & People. Romanita calls these the “red threads” that have been woven into her life and work since she was little. Her current role as CEO of M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust is simply the next step in her journey of living out these themes and following the quiet leading in her life. As a leader, she seeks to lift up and empower eve…
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Andrew Smalley is UK-born, loves running and triathlons, and relishes the role he gets to play as head of school in St. Augustine, FL. Hear about Andrew’s journey to his current leadership role and the joy he finds in furthering classical Christian education. The school is in the process of launching a capital campaign, and Andrew knows that to do …
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Reid Saunders is an evangelist who has led his organization for 27 years. During the past 15 years of Brad and Reid's friendship, RSA has grown 10x and has seen a million people make decisions to follow Jesus worldwide! Enjoy this inspiring and fun interview. Our prayer is that you are encouraged in your journey. Reid’s Book Recommendation: Finishi…
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When I first learned about Medical Ambassadors International, the scale of their ministry relative to their budget seemed so crazy that it was almost too good to be true. In this episode, we dive deep with Dr. Ravi Jayakaran, the current President, to explore this incredible Christ-centered, grassroots organization. Their holistic approach beautifu…
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Playing two truths and a lie with Trinidad-born Dr. Wintley Phipps would be tricky. It’s hard to fathom the number of famous people whose paths he has crossed—whether singing for Mother Theresa or for one of six different U.S. Presidents, or at Diana Ross’s wedding, or a divine appointment with a young and not-yet-famous Oprah Winfrey. However, one…
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Can "Seminary" and "Innovative" Go Together?
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42:35
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42:35Dr. Felix Theonugraha, President of Western Theological Seminary shares how he sees fundraising as a way to minister to and care for his donor partners. As many seminaries are struggling, Western, instead is leaning into their distinctives such as focus on mental health and Hispanic ministry. Part of their current capital campaign is raising fundin…
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Ray Keen exudes wisdom and compassion. He’s a veteran CEO of The Canby Center, a wrap-around care ministry to youth and families in a small town in Oregon. Even as a growing organization–they are currently finishing up a $10 million campaign to expand their facilities and services– they seek to emphasize dignity and learning for everyone they serve…
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Chuck Hagele, CEO of Project Patch, is no stranger to darkness. The ministry he leads provides therapeutic residential programs for teens struggling with severe depression, anxiety and other acute challenges. Through fundraising, they strive to say "Yes" to kids needing treatment even if finances are a barrier. Chuck discusses the difficulties of l…
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The Most Significant Influencer in the World: Mom
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32:02Mandy Arioto wrote a book about fun. She loves to give unusual gifts. She's also the President and CEO of the organization that led 58,000 women to follow Christ last year. Through her leadership of MomCo (formerly MOPS), she has transformed from seeing fundraising as a "necessary evil" to considering it one of the biggest blessings of her role. Ma…
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In this special Juneteenth edition of the podcast, we interview Lisa Fields, a prominent apologist, speaker and founder of the Jude 3 Project. The Jude 3 Project exists to help equip the black Christian community to know what they believe and why they believe it. Lisa is also an expert on Juneteenth and led the production of a recent faith-filled d…
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As God laid on his heart a desire to re-orient education to the focus of glorifying God, David Nees was drawn to classical education. He is now the Head of School at Heritage Classical Academy outside Cleveland, OH, and has led the school through a phenomenal season of growth in the last decade. More students often leads to a need for new physical …
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Hear from Ty Fischer, a 27-year veteran Head of School at Veritas Academy in Lancaster, PA. He shares about the need for humility in asking for help with fundraising as well as the surprising diversity God has brought to his school via the refugee community. For a school nestled in Amish country, it has been an unexpected blessing to have students …
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Oliver Asher, President of Advancing Native Missions, tells his story of a journey from a Virginia "Holler" to leading an organization that takes good news to the world. From him we hear about joy, optimism, commitment, and strategies he has employed to lead his growing organization successfully and effectively. Read more about Advancing Native Mis…
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A Primer on Capital Campaigns (Geneva College)
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40:07Dr. Calvin Troup, President of Geneva College opens up about his personal journey into higher ed and shares invaluable insights he's gleaned along the way that will benefit any fundraising professional. Delve into Geneva College's strategic planning process, feasibility studies and pivotal elements in their successful capital campaign. But beyond s…
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Sitting With Your Donors Even When They Cannot Talk
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44:15Here’s the story of Ben Homan, President of Langham Partnership US, finishing his 14-year career with them. When it comes to fundraising, Brad says, “Follow Ben!” He has had a remarkable ministry as a leader and has seen the ministry multiply three times over this past capital campaign. He has used strategic planning, feasibility studies, capital c…
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Listen to Beth Greco explain to Brad how she became the President and CEO of the Hoving Home, what has happened along the way, and how she manages to get the work done.By Brad Layland
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Brad Layland interviews Dave Owens, Executive Director of the Harbor Network. Learn about this church planting network and how Dave carries out his fundraising to help it all happen.By Brad Layland
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An interview with Young Life's Brooke Filipovski
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26:48
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26:48What do Punta Gorda, Florida, Australia, and Macedonia have in common? Brooke Filipovski! This remarkable young woman has raised support and ministered to young people in some interesting places. Enjoy her story!By Brad Layland
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Brad Layland interviews Tom Lin, the president of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship since 2016.By Brad Layland
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Brad Layland interviews David Brickner of Jews For Jesus.By Brad Layland
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Year-End Appeals - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast
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33:32Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad Layland and Dan Kennedy discuss year-end appeals, the good the bad, and the ugly.By Brad Layland
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Be Encouraged! - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
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10:54Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad Layland and John Ranheim discuss major gifts, why they're given and why you should be encouraged!By Brad Layland
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Fundraising with Jon Eisenberg - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
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28:31
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28:31Welcome special guest Jon Eisenberg, Executive Vice President of Development and Chief Development Officer at Intervarsity. Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad Layland and Jon Eisenberg discuss their first exposures to fundraising for ministry and how it has led them to the national campaigns they lead today.…
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Brad's Favorite End of Year Appeals - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
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19:16A podcast a year in the making! Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast Brad summarizes, critiques, and praises the End of Year Appeals he received last year.By Brad Layland
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The Portrait of a Graduate - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
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15:16Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast, Brad and Max Layland discuss "A Portrait of a Graduate", why they matter and which nonprofits do them best.By Brad Layland
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The Prince Dilemma w/ Ted Rodgers - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
20:49
20:49
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20:49Today on The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast, Brad Layland and Ted Rodgers talk through a case study of improper estate planning.
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The Mid-Course Correction - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
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8:57
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8:57Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast. Today, Brad Layland discusses a common mistake many organizations make when contacting their donors.
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Partners in Blessings w/ Dr. Scott Rodin - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
31:35
31:35
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31:35Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast. Today, Brad Layland and special guest Dr. Scott Rodin walk through the 5 handy ways to make sure your giving partners are blessed.
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Why Fundraising is (NOT) Scary! w/ Tom MacAdam - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
25:00
25:00
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25:00Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast. Today, Brad Layland and special guest Tom MacAdam talk about their approaches to fundraising. Turns out, it's not as scary as it seems!
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Focus! - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
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20:35Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast. How focused is your fundraising? Today, Brad and Max Layland discuss the importance of intentional, focused planning in both fundraising and life.
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The 3 B's of Fish-raising w/ Jamie Sellers - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
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11:04Welcome back to the Taking Donors Seriously Podcast. Today, Brad Layland and special guest Jamie Sellers talk fishing, funding, and financing. If either fish or fundraising strike your fancy we've got a great episode lined up for you!
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Making the Case w/ Ame Eldredge - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
18:39
18:39
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18:39Welcome to another episode of the Taking Donors Seriously podcast. Today, Brad is joined by Ame Eldredge to discuss the function and benefits of a well made case.
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Boards and Fundraising w/ Ted Rodgers - The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast - TDS
18:05
18:05
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18:05Ted Rodgers joins us on The TDS Podcast to share his wisdom on the role of boards in fundraising.
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Taking Donors Seriously - TDS - Live From ZoomLand
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12:44
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12:44The FOCUS Group Podcast returns! Today, Brad and Max Layland talk through 7 tips to enhance your mission using Zoom.
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Taking Donors Seriously - TDS - Letting Donors Be Who They Are
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12:43
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12:43In this episode of the TDS Podcast Brad and Max discuss how best to raise money and spirits in these scary times. Stay safe everyone; you can do this!
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Taking Donors Seriously - TDS - The Waffle House Approach
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12:07On this episode of the TDS Podcast Brad and Max praise the Waffle House's perfect efficiency and explore how these same practices can be used in our fundraising projects. But mainly we talk about how good the Waffle House is.
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Taking Donors Seriously - TDS - Heresy & Compounding Interest
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8:00On this episode of the TDS Podcast Brad speaks to the future value of ministries while Max raises charges of blasphemy.
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Taking Donors Seriously - TDS - The Role of an Ant (and a Fundraiser)
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12:25On this episode of the TDS Podcast Brad and Max discuss the varying roles each person involved in fundraising must play... They also talk about ants.
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Taking Donors Seriously - TDS - Why Fundraisers Are Fed Up... and How to Fix it!
8:48
8:48
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8:48On this episode of the TDS Podcast Brad speaks to the frustration many fundraisers experience in their work and how best to circumvent it.
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Taking Donors Seriously - TDS - Running From Lions
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7:35On this episode of the TDS Podcast Brad and Max discuss the challenges of running races in Kenya and fundraising. (Please note that we at The Taking Donors Seriously Podcast are not qualified zoologists and, as such, any and all advice pertaining to dangerous African wildlife should be taken with a grain of salt.)…
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