In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, host Maria Rio dives into the Five Pillars of Great Fundraising, a powerful framework to help nonprofits assess and optimize their fundraising strategies. Maria explains how nonprofit leaders can evaluate their efforts, identify gaps, and implement changes that lead to sustainable growth. Whether you're working with a small team or looking to refine your fundraising approach, this episode provides practical, actionable insights to maximize your impact. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Caitlin McBride, an experienced fundraiser and consultant, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of being a one-person fundraising department. Caitlin shares her journey from working in large fundraising teams to becoming the sole fundraiser at small nonprofits. She provides actionable insights on setting up systems, avoiding burnout, and leveraging technology to maximize efficiency. If you’re a nonprofit professional juggling multiple roles, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you thrive. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria speaks with Kel Haney, a fundraising coach and consultant, about transforming donor engagement through personalized and strategic phone calls. Kel introduces her "ditch the script" approach and her "five-minute fundraising ask" framework, which emphasizes authenticity, connection, and clear asks. Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or new to phone outreach, Kel’s insights will help you foster deeper relationships and make your calls more effective. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Matt Diamante, founder of Hey Tony, a digital marketing agency specializing in SEO, social media, and online advertising. They dive into practical ways nonprofits can improve their digital presence, implement effective marketing funnels, rank higher in search results, and increase conversions. Matt shares actionable tips on how nonprofits can make the most of their websites, email lists, and social platforms to attract and retain donors. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria is joined by Kimberley McKenzie, a seasoned charity executive turned leadership coach, to discuss the urgent need for wellness in the nonprofit sector. From her journey as a nonprofit leader to her current work coaching charity executives around the globe, Kimberley shares actionable insights on fostering a culture of well-being and trust in mission-driven organizations. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, host Maria welcomes Nicole from Canada Helps and Sam from Apathy Is Boring to discuss the latest trends in giving and civic engagement. They dive into findings from Canada Helps' 2024 Giving Report, exploring the challenges nonprofits face in engaging donors amid rising disconnection, financial stress, and generational shifts. Together, they share actionable insights on how charities can adapt and foster community impact despite these trends. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Rachel Bearbower, founder of Small Shop Strategies and the Nonprofit Automation Agency, about using automation to streamline nonprofit operations and build authentic donor relationships. Rachel breaks down how automation tools can help nonprofits stay connected with donors, reduce repetitive tasks, and free up time for more impactful work. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria sits down with Heather Nelson, founder of Bridge Raise, to explore how small nonprofits can build successful corporate partnerships. They discuss common challenges, the importance of aligning values, and how nonprofits can confidently approach corporate funders, even small organizations. This episode provides essential strategies for nonprofits wanting to build meaningful corporate connections.

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria chats with Rhea Wong, a major gift fundraising expert and former nonprofit Executive Director, about building trust with major donors, consent-based fundraising, and the shifting philanthropic landscape. Rhea shares her experience navigating donor relationships, building trust, and tips for creating a successful major gifts program. 

In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria Bryan shares her best tips for trauma-informed storytelling. She explains the importance of being sensitive to both the storyteller and the audience, emphasizing ethical practices. Both Maria’s share practical tips for conducting interviews with grace and care, as well as strategies for emotional self-care and processing difficult stories.