Nonprofit CourageLab

In this episode, I’m sharing something I’ve never broken down this clearly before: the core qualities and inner leadership skills I see in fundraisers who consistently close major gifts with more ease, confidence, and integrity. These ideas come directly from my own experience, from the work I do inside Courage Lab, and from watching fundraisers transform their results simply by shifting how they show up—not by adding more tasks to their plate. What you’ll learn in this episode: • Why separating your self-worth from donor responses makes fundraising lighter and far more effective • How your presence, energy, and sincerity directly shape donor conversations • Why genuine curiosity leads to deeper relationships and bigger gifts • How self-awareness and self-acceptance strengthen your confidence with donors • Why releasing assumptions and pressure opens space for more natural, productive conversations • How embodying courage and conviction positions you as a peer to donors—not someone seeking approval At the end of the day, what I share in this episode comes down to this: fundraising is an inside job. When you show up grounded, curious, and confident in who you are, everything else becomes easier. You build trust faster, your conversations are richer, and donors feel inspired to step into bigger opportunities. If you want to explore this work further, connect with me on LinkedIn or learn more about Courage Lab. I'm so glad you're here. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

In today’s episode, I’m bringing you a really special conversation with someone I adore — my friend and Courage Lab grad, Sheena Grosshans If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I love highlighting fundraisers who are doing courageous, meaningful work, and Sheena is truly one of the best examples of what’s possible when you combine heart, boldness, and a willingness to grow. Sheena raised $250,000 in just six months while working only 1–2 hours a week inside Courage Lab. Yep — you read that right. And what makes her story even more powerful is that she’s doing life-changing work at To Write Love on Her Arms, supporting young people who are struggling with depression, addiction, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. Her commitment, her empathy, and her sheer belief in the mission shine through in everything she does. In this episode, you’ll hear us talk about: • How Sheena built a major gifts program from scratch • The mindset shift that transformed her confidence asking for bigger gifts • Why being bold, direct, and unapologetic changed the way donors responded • The tiny follow-up habit that unlocked a $10,000 gift (and a $40,000 annual fundraiser!) • How one “small” $500 gift turned into a $20,000 annual donor • The courage it takes to restructure your role so you can actually raise more money • What it looks like to advocate for your own capacity and get things off your plate • Why consistency builds trust faster than any fancy stewardship plan • How relationship-based fundraising helped her donors feel deeply connected to the mission One of my favorite moments in this conversation is when Sheena shares the internal shift from “maybe you could give if you want” to “we are the best at what we do, and I’m inviting you into something powerful.” That shift alone can change everything — and you’ll hear exactly how it did for her. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to step fully into your leadership as a fundraiser, to believe in the value of your work, and to ask boldly from that place of conviction, Sheena’s story is going to light you up. I’m so proud of the work she’s done, and even more excited for you to learn from her today. Let’s dive in. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

This episode originally aired on the We Are For Good Podcast in their Working Sessions series. I’m sharing it here on my own channel so you can dive into practical strategies for closing major gifts this season. It’s giving season, and if you want to close major gifts in the next few weeks, this episode is for you. I walk you through exactly who to ask, how to ask, and how to approach these conversations with courage and confidence. No fluff—just actionable steps to help you move forward with clarity and impact. Here’s what we cover: Identifying your warm prospects:Recognizing signals from your community:Managing mindset and fear:How to ask for more confidently:Handling mistakes with humility:Tools and resources:Opportunity Brainstorm Asking for major gifts doesn’t have to feel paralyzing. By focusing on the right people, preparing internally, and showing up courageously, you can increase your impact and build stronger relationships with your supporters. Refusing to let fear hold you back ensures your mission gets the resources it deserves—and it’s easier than you think to take those first steps. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

In this episode, I’m bringing you a powerful conversation with someone I’ve had the absolute privilege of working with over the last year and a half: Catherine Powers, Executive Director at Pacific Opera Project (POP). Catherine’s story is one of real transformation — as a leader, as a fundraiser, and as a steward of a growing arts organization that’s doing incredible, joyful, boundary-pushing work in Los Angeles. When Catherine stepped into the ED role, she had no fundraising experience and very little time to figure it out. But what she did have was determination, curiosity, and a willingness to learn. In our conversation, she shares honestly about what it was like to come into major gifts as a total beginner, why fundraising initially terrified her, and what shifted once she began learning a clear framework and building her confidence. We talk through the mindset changes that helped her grow POP’s contributed revenue from under $200k to over $400k a year — in just a couple of years — including closing multiple $50k gifts and preparing for POP’s first-ever six-figure solicitation. She gets into the practical steps she took, the scripts and tools that helped her, and the moments where she realized she was becoming the kind of leader who could ask boldly and lead her board and donors with clarity and vision. I love this conversation so much because Catherine’s story proves what I deeply believe: when you have the right model and the right support, you can learn how to raise transformational money — even if you’re a one-person development shop doing five other jobs at the same time. In this episode, you’ll learn: entire This episode is such an encouragement if you’re a solo ED, a first-time fundraiser, or someone who knows major gifts is the next step — but aren’t sure how to start. Catherine’s story is proof that you can learn this, and you can thrive in it. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

In this episode, I’m digging into the real shifts that happen when leaders stop performing, stop softening themselves, and start showing up with clarity, honesty, and real authority — especially in major gifts work. Regina, an Executive Director in Courage Lab, shares her experience of shedding the “always upbeat, always polished” persona and stepping fully into her CEO energy. She talks about what changed when she stopped trying to be overly cheerful for donors who didn’t need or value that, how being direct actually accelerated trust, and what she’s learning as she leads a new development director through this work. Together, we explore what authentic leadership looks like, why relationships deepen faster when you tell the truth, and how taking courageous action creates real momentum inside an organization. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE • Why donors don’t need (or want) a polished persona — they want clarity, vision, and real talk • How Regina realized she was draining energy by trying to sound upbeat instead of operating as a CEO • The difference between relationship building and performing happiness • How direct, honest communication fast-tracks donor trust • Why showing donors the real challenges — not just the “shiny penny” — actually strengthens the partnership • How her development director stepped into courage early, even while still learning the organization • The mindset shift that helped her team make direct asks confidently, even without long-term relationships • What happened when donors began engaging more deeply, referring others, and leaning into honest conversations • How consistency, authenticity, and direct asks created organizational momentum • Why Regina invested in Courage Lab, what stood out to her, and why the accountability model made all the difference • What changed for their board, their fundraising approach, and their long-term strategy • The transformation she’s already seeing just one month into the program — and what she hopes others take away from this work This conversation is such a powerful reminder that major gifts aren’t built on performance — they’re built on leadership. When you stop worrying about being overly positive, deferential, or “pleasant” and instead tell the truth about what’s needed, donors rise to the occasion. Regina’s story shows what’s possible when an Executive Director claims her authority, leads authentically, and commits to courageous action even before everything feels perfect. It also shows how quickly things can shift when a team has the right structure, accountability, and support. If you want to hear what this kind of transformation looks like behind the scenes — and you’re curious about what Courage Lab can unlock for you — this episode is absolutely worth a listen. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

Hey friend — this episode is a bit of a rant, because honestly, I just can’t take it anymore. There is some really bad fundraising advice floating around the nonprofit world, and one piece in particular absolutely drives me up the wall. You may have heard it before — “If you want money, ask for advice. If you want advice, ask for money.” The idea behind it is that you should ask donors for their input first as a “relationship building tactic,” and then eventually you’ll be able to ask for money. But here’s what actually ends up happening: nonprofit leaders avoid asking for financial support altogether. They keep having meetings, asking for advice, collecting feedback… and meanwhile, the mission is still under-funded. I see this constantly with EDs, CEOs, development staff — and it’s not relationship-building. It’s manipulation. It’s having a hidden agenda. And I don’t do hidden agendas. In this episode, I talk about why “ask for advice to get money” is dysfunctional, manipulative, and ultimately ineffective in raising sustainable funding. I share why honesty is the real trust-builder, why clarity is more respectful than tip-toeing around your intentions, and why being direct is not rude — it’s actually generous. If we’re asking for support because our work matters, then we don’t need to hide that. We also talk about: If you've been told to “build the relationship first” but were never taught how, this episode is going to feel like taking a huge breath of fresh air. You don’t need to manipulate. You don’t need to disguise your intentions. You don’t need to be scared of asking. You need courage, clarity, and clean communication — and we talk about all of that here. Take a listen — especially if you’ve been avoiding the ask. This might be the moment everything clicks. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

Hey friend! I’m recording from my new apartment in Chicago, and I’m so excited to bring you Part 3 of my series on end-of-year giving strategies. This episode is a pep talk about the single most important thing I want you to focus on for a successful end of year: asking for more. I know it sounds simple, but asking for more is the strategy that makes the biggest difference in raising money. I’m talking about asking current donors, loyal supporters, and even monthly donors for more — without overthinking it, without worrying about what’s “too much,” and without trying to budget their philanthropy for them. Your job is to communicate the need, build relationships, and invite generosity. The rest is up to them. IN THIS EPISODE: The truth is, most of us overthink asking for more, and that hesitation costs time, energy, and ultimately, donations. I want you to feel set free from the fear of asking for too much or getting it “wrong.” Humility, emotional intelligence, and willingness to risk are your allies — they allow you to make the ask, repair missteps if needed, and build stronger, healthier relationships. Whether you’re raising major gifts for the first time or trying to hit your end-of-year goals, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement to help you lean in, take the risk, and ask for more. DM me CL to learn about joining Courage Lab, my cohort for leaders who want to raise $100K+ in just 1–2 hours a week. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

Hey friend, I’m coming to you from Chicago (yes, I just moved here a few days ago!) and I’m not missing a beat. Rain or shine, I’m showing up to help you crush your end-of-year fundraising goals. This episode is part two of our mini-series on end-of-year giving. If you haven’t already listened to the workshop replay in the previous episode, go back and queue that up - it’s full of strategy, tactics, and my full roadmap for hitting your year-end goals. Today, I’m sharing three specific practices that keep me focused, grounded, and effective during the chaos of year-end fundraising especially when it comes to major gifts. These are simple, doable habits that make a massive difference when the pressure is on. In The Episode I’m breaking down: The First 60:alwaysRuthless Time Management:“Will this help me reach my fundraising goal?”noAssume the Best: I’m also getting real about boundaries, board dynamics, and what healthy leadership looks like for fundraisers who are tired of being stretched too thin. End-of-year giving can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to. If you want to hit your goals without burning out, it comes down to focus, boundaries, and belief. These three habits are what I return to again and again, they’re how I protect my time, serve my donors well, and keep my energy focused on what actually moves the needle. If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in meetings, stretched between competing priorities, or second-guessing how to show up for donors - this episode is your permission slip to lead differently. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

Hey friends, Welcome to this week’s episode, a special replay of a workshop I hosted on end-of-year fundraising strategies. If you’re in the nonprofit or fundraising world, this is a must-listen! I’m diving into **practical, tactical advice** for how I approach major gift fundraising to crush ambitious year-end goals. Spoiler alert: this is all about keeping it *simple*—because simplicity is the vibe here. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: 1. Mapping Your Fundraising Roadmap We kick things off by setting goals and creating a clear strategy to get there. I break down my personal two-page strategy document and how it helps me stay focused. 2.The Magic of Working Backward Learn how I approach setting ambitious goals—like raising $500K—and break them down into manageable steps. Whether it’s identifying top donors or focusing on one-on-one asks, I’ll walk you through my thought process. 3.Ask Amounts & Projections I introduce my “Ask Amount Framework” and show you how to determine the right ask based on a donor’s passion, trust level, and capacity. Then, we dig into projections: how to estimate potential gifts with realistic confidence levels. 4. Courage in Fundraising Let’s get real—asking for big gifts takes guts! I share my journey from sweating over a $2K ask to confidently asking for millions. You’ll hear how to build your courage muscle and get more comfortable with the big asks. 5. Simple Over Busy Whether it’s skipping unnecessary events or learning to advocate for your time, I’ll show you how to cut the noise and focus on what really drives results. 6. Donor Engagement Tips From sending meaningful updates to personalizing your outreach, I share ways to keep donors engaged, invested, and excited to give—without overwhelming yourself. This is like sitting down with a fundraising coach who’s giving you the playbook to simplify and amplify your efforts. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, you’ll walk away with actionable tools to hit your goals. Take Action: I encourage you to workshop your own fundraising strategy as you listen. Think about: - Your big fundraising goal. - Who your top 20 donors are. - What ask amount feels bold but achievable. Let’s make this end-of-year campaign your best one yet! Enjoy the episode. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

If you’ve ever wondered whether your gala is really worth all the time, money, and energy it takes to pull off, this episode is for you. I’ve been in the trenches planning big-name events with celebrity co-chairs and keynote speakers, and I’ve also seen nonprofits raise six- and seven-figure gifts in just a few conversations. When you compare the cost, the time, and the results—it’s not even close. In this episode, I’m breaking down the true ROI of galas versus focusing on major gifts, why galas are almost always more exhausting than they are profitable, and how you can start raising unrestricted dollars in less time with a better strategy. IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT: just from listening to this podcast If you say you value relationship-building, why are you still prioritizing event planning? Major gifts are hands-down the highest ROI strategy, and they don’t burn out your team. You can raise six figures in just a few hours a week with the right strategy, confidence, and language—and without spending nine months planning a gala. Want 15 leads in 5 minutes? DM me "Breakfast burrito" on LinkedIn and I'll send you a pdf and 6-minute training to help you generate 15 leads for your nonprofit in minutes. It's totally free. All you need is an email to sign up. DM me "Breakfast burrito" - I'm from Texas, what can I say? - to get your pdf and mini training. If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2

Hi friends! I’m so excited to share this episode with you because it’s a conversation with one of my Courage Lab grads, Cara Augspurger. Cara is the Executive Director of the Grace Care Center Foundation just north of Indianapolis, and she’s an all-star leader who has experienced incredible growth over the last six months. When Cara and I started working together, she was confident in operations and communications but hesitant around major gifts and board engagement. Fast forward just half a year, and her board has hosted an event that raised $273,000 in one night - with multi-year commitments and new major donors at the table. Even more powerful? Cara’s own confidence has skyrocketed. In this episode, Cara shares how she went from overthinking and procrastinating to boldly inviting donors and board members into the mission and the specific Courage Lab strategies that helped her get there. Cara’s story is proof that you don’t have to do fundraising alone and that courage, clarity, and accountability can change everything. Whether you’re a solo ED or just feeling stuck, her transformation shows what’s possible when you stop playing it safe and step into major gifts with confidence. Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Season seven of Nonprofit Courage Lab kicks off with a truth-telling pep talk. End-of-year fundraising doesn’t have to mean sleepless nights, burnout, or tolerating underperforming teams and boards. You’re capable of raising millions—unrestricted—and doing it in a way that feels fun and sustainable. In this episode, I’m calling out the silent habits that hold fundraisers back: saying yes when you need to say no, underestimating yourself and your donors, making excuses for your team, and tolerating mediocrity that poisons your culture. I’ll share what separates the organizations that thrive from those that fall behind—and why advocating for yourself, leading unapologetically, and setting clear expectations are non-negotiables for success. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: You are capable of more than you realize. It’s time to stop underestimating yourself, stop apologizing, and stop tolerating excuses—from yourself, your team, or your board. When you step into your leadership unapologetically, you’ll raise more money, lead healthier teams, and create lasting change. Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

We’ve made it to the final episode of Season 6! Honestly, I’ve lost count of how many episodes we’ve done together, but I do know this: I’m so grateful for you. Thank you for being here, for trusting me, and for committing to your own journey of becoming a more courageous fundraiser, leader, and human. In this episode, I’m talking all about how to build confidence — and not in the fluffy, "say affirmations in the mirror" kind of way (though hey, nothing wrong with that!). I'm diving into the real, practical ways I’ve built confidence myself and how I’ve seen my clients do the same. Here’s the truth: Confidence is self-trust. And self-trust is built one promise at a time. I break down: so muchcourageconfidencefirst Plus, I get into the difference between confidence and arrogance, how people-pleasing keeps us stuck, and why living by obligation will always dull your light. I share a few client wins too — like someone who raised $560K in just 6 months as a one-person shop. Not because they suddenly became confident overnight, but because they created an environment where courage was the norm. Take this with you: Make a list of the things you’ve been putting off. Give yourself a deadline. Tell someone. Take the risk. Track the win. Repeat. If you’ve been feeling like confidence is just out of reach — listen to this. I promise, you are more capable than you think. And building self-trust is totally possible, no matter where you’re starting from. I’d love to hear from you: What’s a courageous risk you’ve taken recently? Share it in the comments or DM me on LinkedIn — let’s celebrate together. If this episode resonated, pass it on to a colleague who needs a confidence boost today. Here’s to living by design, not default. Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Hey friend ,in this episode I’m breaking down the three biggest pain points I see over and over again when it comes to raising the money you need to fund your mission. Whether you're a nonprofit CEO, ED, or development leader, these are the places where we often get stuck... but we don’t have to stay stuck. Here’s what we’re diving into: Strategy That Actually Fits You It’s not enough to copy what worked for another organization. I walk through how to develop a fundraising strategy that’s aligned with your culture, your team, your values, and your capacity -not just what looks good on paper. Spoiler: if your org deeply values sustainability, don’t expect an events-heavy model to work. Courage is the Difference Maker No one talks about how much courage it takes to raise major gifts. To face rejection. To say no to donors who want to dictate your mission. To speak up when something’s not working. Courage is the backbone of effective fundraising, and I’m sharing real stories -including my own failures - to help you build that muscle. Emotional Intelligence is Your Fundraising Superpower I used to say “relationships” were the third key, but I’m refining that: it’s actually emotional intelligence (EQ). I break down the four components of EQ and why it’s the number one indicator of fundraising success. You’ll get a peek into the book I’m currently rereading (Emotional Intelligence 2.0), and how this work has changed the way I lead and raise money. Whether you're struggling with awkward board meetings, feeling stuck in fear, or wondering why your strategy just isn’t landing - this one’s for you. If you loved this episode or had a lightbulb moment, hit me up on LinkedIn and let me know. Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

I’ve always wanted to host a live call-in show where folks ask their biggest fundraising questions and I just dive right in with real-time advice. Since we’re not quite doing live radio, this episode is the next best thing. In this one, I’m answering three tough, common questions I’ve gotten from past clients and people on my email list. These are the situations that come up all the time - and they’re not easy. But I’m walking you through how I’d handle them, step by step. Here’s what we cover in this episode: This episode is honest, practical, and full of scripts and mindset shifts you can use right now to move through these challenges. Also, if you want to raise six figures in 16 weeks, I have three one-on-one spots open right now. This is the most affordable private coaching I’ve ever offered, and it’s a powerful way to work together if you’ve been waiting for the right time. If you’re interested, send me a message on LinkedIn. If you’re not on my email list yet, stop what you’re doing and go sign up. You’ll get instant access to my free templates, including my 24-page donor scripts cheat sheet, plus first dibs on workshops and coaching opportunities. You can sign up at julieordonez.com or nonprofitcouragelab.com. Message me on LinkedIn to inquire about 1:1 coaching: linkedin.com/in/julieordonez Thanks for listening. Keep showing up, telling the truth, and leading with courage.

In this episode, I’m bringing you a story that perfectly captures why courage is one of the most important skills you can build as a fundraiser — and how it can completely change your results. You’ll hear about my client Laura, a high-performing fundraiser who pushed herself to take a huge risk. First, she asked a donor for a $250,000 gift and heard “no.” But she didn’t let that stop her. She kept strengthening her “ask” muscle and later made a $1.5 million ask — which led to an incredible $810,000 gift that helped her team close out their fiscal year strong. And here’s the thing — this transformation wasn’t about tactics or scripts (though we worked on those too). It was about how Laura saw herself, how she built her courage, and how she led by example for her team. Whether you’re trying to hit a big revenue goal or just want to feel more confident going after major gifts, there’s so much in this story for you. Here’s what you will learn: Thanks so much for tuning in today. I hope Laura’s story inspires you to take more courageous swings in your own fundraising work. It’s not always easy to push past fear or to risk hearing “no” — but when you do, the doors it can open are incredible. Remember, your donors want to give. Your mission deserves big gifts. And YOU are capable of asking for them. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love it if you’d share it with someone else who’s on this fundraising journey too. The more we encourage each other to lead with courage, the more impact we can all create. See you next time! Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Hey, friends in this episode, I’m breaking down what it really looks like to operate from an abundance mindset as a fundraiser or nonprofit leader. If you're tired of feeling pressure to chase every donor, scared to hear “no,” or stuck in scarcity, this is for you. I’m sharing real stories and practical signs that show when you’re leading from a place of trust, service, and confidence, not desperation. Let’s talk about donor referrals, releasing misaligned people, and making bold asks with zero attachment. Abundance isn't just a nice idea — it's a powerful shift in how you show up and invite generosity. What We Cover in This Episode: actually Here’s what I want you to take away: there is plenty. There are plenty of donors, plenty of money, plenty of opportunities. The more we let go of clinging and chasing, the more we make room for aligned, meaningful generosity to flow in. Being in an abundance mindset doesn’t mean you don’t want results — it means you trust that the right people, the right gifts, and the right timing will come when you lead with service, clarity, and courage. Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, I sit down with Patrick Dunn, Executive Director of the International Pemphigus and Pemphigoid Foundation (IPPF) I walk you through exactly how I would pitch donors if I was looking to pick up an additional 200k in funding. What you’ll learn in this episode: I loved this conversation with Patrick because it shows the heart of what fundraising should be: human, values-driven, and impact-focused. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about making the ask and building real relationships. If you’re wondering how to inspire major gifts even without a big team or budget, this episode will give you ideas (and courage). Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, I sit down with Maria from Soft Landing Missoula- an incredible nonprofit helping refugee and immigrant families build new lives in Montana. We talk about how they got started, how they fund their work, and the emotional reality of fundraising in a world that’s constantly shifting. Maria shares what it’s like to lead fundraising efforts at an organization where over half of their revenue comes from individual donors and what she’s hearing from those donors right now. Spoiler alert: It’s not always about money. Sometimes donors just need to process what’s happening in the world, and Maria’s learning how to hold space for that while keeping her focus. We also talk honestly about what it means to lead yourself well during tough times, how to listen without taking everything at face value, and why emotional intelligence might be your most important skill as a fundraiser. What we cover in this episode: saydo My favorite moment? When we talk about how life is always "lifeing" for your donors—even when it’s not making headlines. It’s a powerful reminder that generosity isn’t always logical or linear, but it is resilient. Donors are still giving. The work still matters. And part of our job is managing our own mindset so we can keep showing up with passion and purpose—no matter what. Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Heather Beam, founder of Practical Education Network (PEN), a nonprofit that’s transforming the way science and math are taught in Africa. Heather shares the story of how building a wind turbine with students in Ghana sparked her mission to make hands-on, project-based learning the new normal across the continent. We talk about her big vision, the current impact of PEN, and the realities of fundraising for such an ambitious goal. If you're passionate about education, innovation, or nonprofit leadership, this conversation will inspire you. What We Cover in This Episode: Heather’s Origin Story: The Big Vision for PEN: Current Impact & Reach: The Challenge of Fundraising: The Power of Donor Relationships: Heather’s Next-Level Goals: I loved Heather’s passion for problem-solving and her belief that every student should leave school with the skills to tackle real-world challenges. Her story of building a wind turbine from a plastic bucket and scrap computer parts was such a powerful example of what’s possible with creativity and resourcefulness. And as a fundraiser myself, our discussion about donor motivation and making personalized asks really hit home. Heather’s mission is bold, but so necessary. Education is the foundation for change, and Practical Education Network is doing the work to ensure students are equipped not just with knowledge, but with the confidence and skills to innovate and solve problems in their own communities. If you’re inspired by this conversation, I encourage you to learn more about PEN and consider supporting their work. Do you need to make bolder asks, but you have to figure out what the heck you're going to say? I have a free gift for you. Go to JulieOrdonez. com and get my free donor scripts cheat sheet. You'll get the exact words I've used to raise 50 million from individuals. If you are in a season where you need to grow exponentially, check out my new program, Million Dollar VIP and see if it’s right for you: https://julieordonez.com/million Get on the waitlist to the join the next cohort of the CourageLab today! https://julieordonez.com/waitlist Music credit: With the Flow by Fin Productions A Podcast Launch Bestie production