The Cause+Effect Podcast: Recent Episodes
Dunham+Company
Tired of doing things the same. way. every. year? The Cause+Effect Podcast, brought to you by the Dunham Podcast Network, is a fresh voice that breaks down the latest fundraising trends, leadership lessons and the ups and downs of the nonprofit industry. Our host Trent Dunham talks to a variety of guests with effective strategies and stories that inspire us. The goal? Increased effectiveness for more impact.
AI is no longer a future consideration for nonprofit and ministry leaders. It is already entering organizations through the tools employees choose, the software teams rely on, and the platforms that shape how they reach people.
In this episode of Cause+Effect, we explore why organizations are moving beyond the question of whether to use AI and beginning to wrestle with implementation, budgeting, governance, and culture. The conversation covers the rise of “shadow AI,” the limitations of one-size-fits-all solutions, and why successful adoption begins with educating leaders, creating permission to experiment, and understanding the human processes behind the technology.
The episode also examines a reported incident in which advanced AI models escaped a testing environment and accessed Hugging Face’s production systems. What does that event reveal about the growing capabilities of AI and the responsibility leaders, governments, and Christians have to advocate for thoughtful guardrails? AI cannot simply be ignored. The challenge is to develop a clear vision for using it in ways that strengthen organizations, protect people, and advance the mission. This is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
00:52 – AI Adoption Reaches a Turning Point
02:02 – Why Organizations Are Rethinking Their First AI Strategy
04:05 – Shadow AI and the Front, Side, and Back Doors
08:00 – What Nonprofits Can Learn from Corporate AI Spending
10:16 – Where AI Belongs in the Budget and Organization
11:38 – Education, Permission, and People-Centered Implementation
17:08 – When an AI Model Escapes Its Testing Environment
20:52 – A Warning Shot for AI Safety and Governance
23:23 – Why Christian Leaders Need to Engage
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham, President and CEO of Dunham+Co, is joined by Rick Dunham, Founder and Chairman, and Josh Crowther, VP of Dunham+Co, for a practical conversation about the new Giving USA 2026 report and what it means for churches, ministries, and nonprofit organizations.
Charitable giving reached $617.2 billion in 2025 and grew even after adjusting for inflation. But behind that healthy top-line number are important shifts in how and where people give. Rick and Josh unpack the surge in bequests, the growing influence of donor-advised funds, declining donor participation, and the challenges facing giving to religious organizations.
From beginning a planned giving conversation to preparing for transformational gifts and building a broader community of support, this episode turns the data into practical next steps. Trent, Rick, and Josh also explore what Gen Z’s generosity could mean for the future and why consistent, story-driven communication is essential for moving donor relationships beyond the transactional. This is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Chapters:
00:00 — Introduction
01:04 — What Giving USA Tells Us About 2025
06:10 — What Drove the Growth in Giving
07:02 — The Rise of Bequests and Planned Giving
12:09 — Where Donors Are Directing Their Gifts
19:21 — Donor Participation and Building from the Bottom Up
24:40 — Rebuilding Community Around Your Mission
27:09 — What Gen Z Signals About the Future of Giving
31:39 — Telling Stories That Connect Donors to Impact
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham, CEO+ President of Dunham+Co, is joined by Brian Mountjoy, Chief Culture Officer at Dunham+Co, for a conversation on what it really takes to build and sustain a healthy organizational culture.
Through stories ranging from chicken coops and workplace brackets to unforgettable moments of caring for people well, Trent and Brian unpack why culture is not created by slogans, parties, or values on a wall. It is shaped every day by intentional leaders who love their people, model their values, and create an environment where others feel seen, known, and cared for.
Whether you lead a nonprofit, church, ministry, or business, this episode will challenge you to ask a simple but important question: what is one practical thing you can do today to strengthen the culture of your organization?
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
01:40 – Why Culture Requires Proactive Investment
04:02 – Culture Is Not a One-Time Event
05:39 – What Chickens Can Teach Us About Leadership
11:46 – Loving People in the Way They Need to Be Loved
19:12 – Simple Ways to Make Culture Real
30:18 – Challenge to Leaders
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham, President+CEO of Dunham+Co, sits down with Josh Crowther, VP of Dunham+Co, to unpack the real reasons donors lapse. Some reasons are outside an organization’s control, like personal financial pressure, economic uncertainty, or shifting cultural attitudes toward generosity. But many causes are self-inflicted — including silence, poor communication, overused urgency, and fundraising tactics that prioritize immediate ROI over long-term relationship.
Trent and Josh discuss how organizations can identify lapsed donors, avoid common retention mistakes, and build stronger communication strategies that re-engage supporters. They also explore why lapsed donors often still see themselves as connected to your mission — and why that should change the way nonprofits communicate with them.
For nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and ministry teams, this conversation offers practical insight into donor retention, reactivation, and building lasting relationships with the people who make your mission possible.
CHAPTERS
00:00 – Introduction
01:12 – Why donors stop giving
02:00 – Economic uncertainty and donor confidence
04:38 – The decline in charitable giving
07:05 – Why silence causes donors to lapse
10:36 – The problem with constant urgency
13:18 – Treating donors like wallets
15:28 – How to re-engage lapsed donors
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham, President and CEO of Dunham+Co, is joined again by Eric Gomez, COO of Dunham+Co, for part two of their conversation around Trent’s Top 10 for 2026.
Picking up with the second half of the list, Trent and Eric discuss how nonprofit leaders can use data visualization to make better decisions, why every communication channel matters, and how organizations should approach AI with more than reactionary experimentation. They also explore the importance of leadership modeling healthy work, the danger of blind spots, and what Dunham+Co’s 25th anniversary represents beyond celebration.
For nonprofit executives, ministry leaders, and fundraising teams preparing for 2026, this conversation offers practical guidance on strategy, culture, communication, and leadership for the road ahead.
Chapters:
00:00 — Welcome to Cause+Effect
01:16 — Data Visualization That Drives Strategy
07:11 — The Metrics Nonprofit CEOs Should Watch
08:55 — Why Every Communication Channel Matters
13:16 — Building a Documented AI Strategy
22:19 — Leadership Modeling Healthy Work
30:09 — 25-Years of Dunham+Co and What’s Ahead
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham, President and CEO of Dunham+Co, is joined by Eric Gomez, COO of Dunham+Co, for a practical conversation on key trends and opportunities facing churches and nonprofit organizations in 2026.
Drawing from Trent’s annual “Top 10” insights shared at the Dunham+Co client summit, Trent and Eric unpack five major areas leaders should be paying attention to: how to maximize every piece of content, why donor education around tax code changes matters, why now may be a strong moment for capital campaigns, how personal touch can deepen donor relationships, and why video should be part of every podcast strategy.
From sermons and podcasts to handwritten notes and capital campaign communication, this conversation challenges leaders to think beyond more activity and instead focus on greater effectiveness, stronger relationships, and more impact.
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CHAPTERS:
00:00 — Welcome to Cause+Effect
01:00 — Eric’s Journey to Dunham+Co
03:05 — Maximizing Every Piece of Content
09:35 — Donor Education and Tax Code Changes
13:30 — Why Now Is a Strong Time for Capital Campaigns
18:40 — How to Launch a Campaign the Right Way
23:45 — Personal Touch in an Automated World
27:55 — Why Podcasts Need Video
Does giving really go down in the summer—or have nonprofits simply come to expect it?
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham, President+CEO of Dunham+Co, is joined by Joshua Crowther, VP of Dunham+Co, to unpack the myths and realities of summer giving. Together, they discuss how disrupted rhythms, vacations, fiscal year timing, and donor communication all shape giving behavior during the summer months.
Rather than accepting the “summer slump” as inevitable, Trent and Josh explore how nonprofits, churches, and ministries can use this season to communicate urgency, tell compelling stories, steward donors well, and create momentum heading into the fall.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction 01:27 – Is the Summer Giving Slump Real?
03:30 – Disrupted Rhythms and Donor Behavior
06:03 – Fiscal Year-End as a Summer Opportunity
08:00 – Creating Urgency During a Low-Urgency Season
10:40 – Don’t Let Summer Become a Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
13:27 – Building Momentum Out of Summer
19:16 – Final Encouragement: Try Something Different
Is a spiritual resurgence really happening or are we just seeing isolated moments?
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham sits down with David Kinnaman, CEO of Barna Group, to talk about what Barna’s latest research is revealing about faith, church attendance, and spiritual openness in America.
David shares why younger generations, especially Gen Z, may be showing more openness to Jesus than many leaders expected, why that openness does not always translate into comfort with traditional church structures, and what it means for ministries trying to reach the next generation. Together, Trent and David unpack the opportunities and challenges facing church leaders today, from discipleship and mentorship to intergenerational ministry and creating environments where people can truly be known.
This conversation is both encouraging and clarifying for leaders asking a critical question: is the Church prepared for what may be coming next?
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:06 Live from the Dunham+Company Summit
02:52 Is a spiritual resurgence happening?
08:42 Gen Z, Jesus, and the future church
12:07 Is the church ready for this moment?
19:10 Why mentorship and healthy leadership matter
26:29 The church’s opportunity with the next generation
33:55 Outro
In this episode of Cause+Effect, Trent Dunham is joined by Matthew Luhn — writer, animator, director, author, and longtime Pixar story leader. Drawing from his work on Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, Up, and more, Matthew shares what makes a story memorable and why great storytelling is essential for leaders, ministries, and nonprofits trying to inspire action.
Together, Trent and Matthew explore why facts alone rarely stick, how story creates emotional connection, why the audience should be seen as the hero, and how organizations can better communicate mission through compelling, human-centered narratives. Matthew also unpacks simple storytelling principles leaders can use right away to make their message clearer, stronger, and more impactful.
Show Notes:
Pickup a copy of Matthew's book: https://a.co/d/07QnkFfm
In this episode of Cause+Effect, Trent Dunham sits down with James “JP” Poulter, Head of Innovation at Dunham+Company and author of AI at Work (coming August 2026), for a timely conversation on what AI means for ministry leaders right now.
JP breaks down the fast shift from conversational AI to agentic AI, explains why leaders should stop treating AI like just an answer engine, and offers practical ways organizations can use these tools to reduce administrative burden and create more space for mission-focused work. Together, Trent and JP explore “reverse prompting,” the rise of AI use inside organizations (even unknowingly), and why every ministry needs to think seriously about ethics, governance, and stewardship as these tools become more embedded in daily work.
The takeaway is clear: AI is not a conversation leaders can afford to postpone. The goal is not simply greater efficiency, but wiser innovation that helps organizations increase their effectiveness for more impact.
In this episode of The Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham is joined by Rick Dunham, Founder and Chairman of Dunham+Company, and Josh Crowther, Vice President of Dunham+Company, to unpack key findings from the latest Donor Confidence Report.
Together, they explore what the research reveals about donor behavior heading into 2026: why more donors say they may give less, how economic fear is shaping generosity, why direct mail still matters more than many organizations realize, how text messaging is emerging as an underused fundraising channel, and why nonprofits need to pay attention to donor education around recent tax-law changes.
They also discuss the practical implications for nonprofit leaders, including how to reduce friction in online giving, better measure fundraising effectiveness, and communicate in ways that build trust and response in a changing environment.
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Check out the report here: https://www.dunhamandcompany.com/insights/
In this episode of The Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham sits down with Matt Potter, co-founder of PRAY.COM, for a candid conversation on how mission-driven leaders can build, test, and scale with both conviction and clarity. Matt shares his providential story—from adoption and early exposure to tech, to stepping into a calling that led to PRAY.COM’s launch in 2016—and the leadership mindset that helped them pivot from ideas that sounded right to solutions that actually served people.
Together, they unpack rapid obedience, “fail fast” experimentation, and the importance of building a culture where learning is safe. You’ll hear how PRAY.COM moved from prayer-wall community features to guided prayers and devotionals, why data dashboards and AI tools (like PRAY Studio) matter for ministries today, and what it looks like to shift from founder-driven skill to scalable systems and leaders.
Recorded live at the Dunham+Company Summit, Trent Dunham sits down with Pastor Adam Mesa of Patria Church for a grounded conversation about keeping ministry and mission-driven work personal. Adam shares lessons from a healthy leadership transition, how Patria's content strategy is designed to be a “front door” for people exploring faith, how Psalm 23 reframes leadership as shepherding, and how God always cares about the one, the individual.
The heartbeat of the episode is simple: don’t get so busy that you miss chances to reach the one right in front of you, because the Shepherd never does.
What makes a team want to show up—and what causes even mission-driven organizations to quietly drift into burnout, confusion, or disengagement?
Trent Dunham sits down with Jenni Catron, Founder & CEO of The 4Sight Group and author of Culture Matters, for a practical conversation about building environments where people thrive. Jenni shares why culture can’t be left to chance, how “environment” shapes engagement (often more than we realize), and why clarity is one of the strongest indicators of a healthy culture.
If you want to learn how to build a healthy culture within your organization or team, this is an episode you don't want to miss!
In this episode, host Trent Dunham, President and CEO of Dunham+Company, is joined by Josh Crowther, VP at Dunham+Company, to discuss how ministries and organizations can start 2026 strong. Together, they explore key strategies for effective communication, donor engagement, and vision casting to set the tone for a successful year.
From debunking the myth of "donor fatigue" to practical tips on leveraging the new year for deeper connections with supporters, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you lead your organization with clarity and purpose.
Tune in to learn how to engage your audience, cast a compelling vision, and position your ministry for impact in 2026!
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, host Trent Dunham is joined by Rick Dunham, founder and chairman of Dunham+Company, to discuss how leaders can navigate turbulent times in fundraising. With 2025 coming to a close and 2026 on the horizon, they explore practical strategies for staying grounded, retaining donors, and maintaining a donor-centric approach during challenging seasons.
From emphasizing the importance of retention to making strategic budget decisions, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help organizations weather financial uncertainty while staying true to their mission.
Tune in for a timely discussion on leading with clarity, focusing on the fundamentals, and positioning your organization for long-term success!
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, host Trent Dunham sits down with Dan Sumpter, Chief Product Officer and creative leader at Dunham+Company, to explore the fascinating world of creativity with a purpose.
Together, they dive into the challenges and opportunities of leading creative teams, dispelling myths about creativity, and offering practical insights for those who work with or manage creatives. From understanding the emotional and logical balance in creative work to eliminating waste in the creative process, this episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to harness creativity to solve problems and drive impact.
Tune in to learn how to align creativity with purpose and create work that truly resonates!
In this reflective episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, host Trent Dunham, President and CEO of Dunham+Company, takes a deep dive into one of the most critical traits of effective leadership: humility. Drawing from decades of experience and personal growth, Trent explores how humility shapes strong leadership, fosters wisdom, and empowers teams to thrive.
Whether you're leading an organization, a team, or simply influencing those around you, this episode offers practical insights on embracing humility, making hard decisions, and pursuing wisdom in your leadership journey. Tune in for actionable takeaways and a fresh perspective on what it means to lead with integrity and purpose.
Don’t miss this opportunity to reflect on your own leadership and discover how humility can transform your impact!
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, host Trent Dunham is joined by Matt Ferguson and Peter McGowan, two creative leaders with a passion for storytelling, marketing, and architecture. Together, they explore the power of storytelling in shaping organizations, creating meaningful spaces, and connecting with audiences in impactful ways.
From their work with Disney and Universal Studios to their innovative projects with churches and nonprofits, Matt and Peter share how intentional storytelling can transform not only physical spaces but also the way organizations engage with their communities.
Tune in to discover how to align your story with your mission, design spaces that inspire, and create experiences that leave a lasting impact. Whether you’re leading a church, nonprofit, or business, this episode is packed with insights to help you think differently about the story you’re telling.
In this thought-provoking episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, host Trent Dunham dives into the fascinating and complex world of artificial intelligence with guest Drew Dickens. With over 25 years of ministry experience and a deep focus on the intersection of AI and spirituality, Drew brings a unique perspective on how AI is shaping our lives, our faith, and our organizations.
Together, they explore the practical applications of AI, its ethical implications, and how believers can navigate this rapidly evolving technology with wisdom and intentionality. Whether you’re a leader seeking to integrate AI into your organization or simply curious about its impact on your personal life and faith, this episode offers valuable insights and guidance.
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, host Trent Dunham welcomes back Rick Dunham, founder and chairman of Dunham+Company, for an insightful conversation on the latest giving trends and their implications for nonprofits.
Together, they unpack the Mid-Year Giving Update, exploring key data points from 2024 and early 2025, including donor participation trends, the impact of tax policy changes, and strategies for navigating the current philanthropic landscape. From the decline in donor numbers to the importance of mid and major donor strategies, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help organizations prepare for a strong Q4 and beyond.
Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or simply passionate about philanthropy, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to inspire generosity and drive impact. Tune in for a data-driven discussion that’s both timely and practical!
In this insightful episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, host Trent Dunham is joined by Joshua Crowther to explore the critical role of measurement in organizational growth and effectiveness. With over 17 years of experience, including a decade leading Dunham+Company’s Australian office, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the conversation.
Together, they dive into why measuring outcomes matters, how to define key performance indicators (KPIs), and the importance of balancing data with storytelling. From understanding donor journeys to building accountability within teams, this episode unpacks practical strategies for organizations to measure what truly matters and use those insights to drive greater impact.
Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, marketer, or strategist, this episode offers actionable takeaways to help you steward resources effectively, communicate your mission clearly, and achieve long-term success. Tune in to learn how effective measurement can transform your organization and amplify its Kingdom impact!
Welcome to this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, where we explore the fascinating dynamics of generational engagement in charitable giving. Host Trent Dunham is joined by two returning guests: Rick Dunham, founder and chairman of Dunham+Company, and Josh Crowther, Vice President of Dunham+Company. Together, they unpack the findings of a groundbreaking longitudinal study commissioned by Dunham+Company and published by the Giving USA Foundation, which examines how Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z approach philanthropy.
The conversation delves into the unique characteristics of each generation, from the wealth and generosity of Boomers to the idealism of Millennials and the surprising generosity and engagement of Gen Z. They also discuss the challenges of engaging Gen X donors and the critical role of life stages in shaping giving behaviors. With insights into the impact of technology, the rise of mobile giving, and the importance of direct mail, this episode offers actionable strategies for organizations looking to connect with donors across all age groups.
Whether you're a nonprofit leader, fundraiser, or simply curious about the future of philanthropy, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help your organization thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to engage donors effectively and ensure your mission continues to make an impact for years to come!
On this episode, we’re bringing together a dynamic conversation at the crossroads of ministry, architecture, and strategy. Hosted by Trent Dunham, this episode features three incredible guests who offer unique perspectives on designing and funding spaces to better serve communities and ministries. Erik Rogers, Chief Strategist for Donor Advancement at Dunham+Company, kicks off with insight into how ministries can elevate relationships with donors to fund transformational projects. Joining the discussion are Nick Cooper and Mark Ashcraft from Parkhill, an architectural and engineering firm that specializes in faith-based projects. Together, they explore not just the "what" of creating spaces, but the "why"—ensuring alignment with vision and purpose.
This episode unpacks practical advice for ministries at critical decision points. How can your organization identify when it’s time to rethink or expand space? What processes bring dreams to reality without losing sight of efficiency or stewardship? From collaborative design to donor engagement and even the role outdoor spaces play in fostering community, this conversation offers a wealth of actionable insights.
Understanding the ebb and flow of charitable giving is crucial for nonprofits and ministries to thrive in a challenging economic landscape. Trent Dunham is joined by Rick Dunham to tackle a pivotal question many organizations grapple with: What do you do when giving isn’t awesome?
From the boom of 2021’s record-breaking donations to the flatlined trends of 2023 and 2024, this episode dives into the data, the psychology behind donor behavior, and the macroeconomic factors influencing charitable contributions. But more importantly, Rick shares practical strategies to sustain your organization during lean times. Discover actionable insights on engaging lapsed donors and retaining your donor base, the importance of transparency and storytelling in donor communications, and the power of legacy giving and planning for the long term
Whether you’re a nonprofit leader or part of an organization looking to cultivate sustainable funding strategies, this episode is packed with expert advice and real-world solutions.
We’re excited to have Brian Mountjoy, Chief Culture Officer at Dunham+Company, joining us today. With over a decade of experience shaping organizational culture, Brian brings valuable insights into what makes teams truly unified.
We explore the practical side of fostering a healthy workplace culture, where unity doesn’t mean the absence of challenges but rather handling those challenges in a constructive way. Brian shares his thoughts on why leadership accountability and proactive team participation are essential ingredients for building unity within any organization, be it a business, ministry, or church.
Tune in to discover actionable strategies for creating an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Join us for this engaging conversation on building stronger teams and cultivating a culture of support, empathy, and connection.
Dive into the latest episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, where Trent Dunham sits down with industry experts Nils Smith, Madison DeLage, and Haley Johnson to discuss the cutting-edge tools and trends shaping the future of digital marketing and fundraising.
In this engaging conversation, the team tackles how AI is revolutionizing audience engagement, from predictive analytics to personalized content creation, making it easier than ever to connect with the right people, at the right time. They also explore the shifting role of search engines in the age of AI-driven algorithms and how these changes impact visibility and strategy for organizations.
The episode goes beyond just trends, offering practical insights and expert advice on how to adapt your strategies to thrive in today’s ever-changing digital landscape. Whether you’re part of a nonprofit, ministry, or mission-driven organization, you’ll gain actionable tips and fresh perspectives on how to stay competitive.
Welcome to a special episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast! Today, Trent Dunham is joined by his long-time collaborator and friend, Nils Smith. This episode explores the role of trust in leadership and how it shapes career transitions, business, and ministry. Nils reflects on his nine years at Dunham+Company, highlighting moments of growth and how trust has been a cornerstone of his unconventional journey from pastoral ministry to innovation. He shares insights on viewing ministry and calling through a broader lens while maintaining a 50,000-foot perspective on life and leadership.
Trent and Nils also discuss the dynamics of empowering employees to take risks and the “coaching tree” concept, which celebrates the impact of team members as they go on to new opportunities. This conversation is a testament to the power of vision, trust, and the lasting influence leaders can have on those they inspire.
Without a guest this time, Trent takes time to reflect on a meaningful and thought-provoking word that has shaped Dunham+Company at its core. Following the rebranding conversation from a previous episode, where the process of redefining Dunham+Company’s identity with the founder still involved was discussed, Trent takes a deeper look into the concept of resilience.
Why resilience? How is it different from perseverance? And how can this one powerful word inform how your organization communicates, operates, and leads with intention?
This episode is packed with insight into the process Dunham+Company went through, a biblical perspective on true resilience, and practical lessons for leaders navigating challenges within their own organizations. Join Trent as he explores the profound role resilience plays in shaping not just what we do, but who we are, and discover how this mindset can bring strength, intentionality, and recovery in the face of difficulty.
On this episode of Cause+Effect, we’re exploring creativity in a way you've never considered before. Join host Trent Dunham as he welcomes Dan Sumpter, Chief Product Officer at Dunham+Company, and Dean Sell, founder of Red Leaf Brands, for a thought-provoking discussion on understanding and redefining creativity.
Is creativity a skill reserved for only a select few? Not at all. The conversation dives into how creativity is a universal resource, hardwired into all of us. From leading a company to crafting a campaign, everyone has a unique role to play in the creative process. Tune in to uncover why collaboration, iteration, and production are the essential pillars of creativity, and hear insights on how leaders can step into the process without overstepping or holding back.
How has the media landscape changed in the past decade, and what does it mean for content creators today? Carey Nieuwhof, returning guest and renowned leadership podcaster, joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss the major shifts in content creation and media consumption over the last 5-10 years.
From the decline of traditional blogging to the rise of video and short-form content, Carey shares insights on adapting to new media trends and staying relevant in a crowded digital space. You'll learn about the importance of owning your channels – like email lists and podcasts – over relying solely on social algorithms. Hear valuable advice on creating content that truly resonates, building your legacy, and evolving your strategies to reach today’s audiences effectively.
Whether you're a content creator, business leader, or anyone navigating the fast-paced world of media, this episode is packed with actionable advice and fresh perspectives. Tune in and get inspired to elevate your content game.
Welcome to this inspiring episode of the Cause+Effect podcast featuring James Poulter, a global leader in AI and innovation. Together, Trent and James dive into how to thrive in the ever-changing environment of technology, foster creativity, and let go of outdated practices that hold us back. James shares powerful insights on how these principles can spark meaningful change in technology, ministry, business, and personally.
Whether you're a leader in your field or simply looking for ways to grow personally and professionally, this episode is packed with practical strategies to increase your impact and effectiveness. Don’t miss it!
Welcome to this special episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast! Host Trent Dunham sits down with Rick Dunham, Founder and Chairman of Dunham+Company, to explore the crucial relationship between government policies and charitable giving. Together, they dig into the history of the charitable tax deduction and the recent legislation that has been introduced, proposing a universal charitable tax deduction.
Also, discover insightful findings from a new national study on attitudes related to the charitable tax deduction and the implications of the recently introduced legislation. Whether you’re a nonprofit professional, donor, or simply curious about the intersection of government policy and generosity, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
Today, we’re excited to explore some fascinating insights and trends in donor psyche, brought to life by our special guest, Rick Dunham. A frequent visitor to the podcast, Rick joins Trent to unpack critical findings from the latest Donor Confidence Study – a resource the team at Dunham+Company commissions annually to better understand donors' mindsets as we head into a fresh year.
This year’s edition of the study has a nuanced focus, influenced by its timing right after the election. As Rick explains, the study surveyed donors who had contributed at least $20 to charity in the previous 12 months. Its goal is clear but essential – gauge if donors intend to give more or less in the year ahead and understand why. Are they optimistic about the economy? What factors are driving or hindering their willingness to give? These are just a few of the areas we’ll explore today. Whether you're a leader in a nonprofit, a donor yourself, or simply interested in trends shaping giving, this conversation will provide actionable insights to inform your perspective as we march into 2025.
This episode of the Cause+Effect podcast dives into the highlights of Trent’s presentation at our annual Summit. Featuring a dynamic discussion between hosts Trent Dunham and Nils Smith, this conversation is packed with insights to fuel your mission.
Trent’s iconic “Top 10 List” from the Summit takes center stage as he and Nils break down key trends, actionable recommendations, and best practices for leaders and teams. Whether you're a ministry leader or simply looking to optimize your impact, this episode offers invaluable takeaways to empower your organization.
Join us for a special episode of the Cause and Effect Podcast, where Trent Dunham leads a discussion alongside Nils Smith, Rick Dunham, and Dan Sumpter. Together, they peel back the curtain on the rebranding process at Dunham+Company—offering invaluable insights into leadership transitions, organizational branding, and the art of patience and discernment.
Whether you're exploring a rebrand or evaluating how to lead in a new season, this episode provides practical and inspiring lessons for navigating change with resilience.
Ever wondered how charities can maximize their results on GivingTuesday—and beyond? This episode dives deep into GivingTuesday 2024 and provides actionable insights to set your organization up for success in 2025. Trent is joined by two returning subject matter experts from Dunham+Company—Danielle Rice, Chief Digital Officer, and Madison DeLage, Associate Director of Digital Strategy.
Together, they explore why GivingTuesday remains a crucial day for charities despite emerging competition like Travel Tuesday and discuss 2024 performance trends in fundraising and donor engagement. They also highlight key strategies high-performing organizations used this year, including growing email lists, cultivating mid/major donors, and using matching grants effectively.
Whether you're an experienced nonprofit leader or just starting to dip your toes into fundraising, this episode equips you with the strategies and foresight to elevate your organization’s efforts.
Listen now for expert tips on aligning technology, messaging, and community engagement for long-term fundraising success.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the nonprofit world by providing tools for better outreach and engagement through personalized messaging and content delivery.
In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, taped live at the Dunham-Company Annual Summit, James Poulter joins us to discuss the changes and speculate about the future of AI's impact on ministry work. He champions the integration of AI in ministry, harnessing its analytical capabilities to deepen understanding of constituent needs, automate mundane tasks, and empower ministers to focus on meaningful interactions within their communities.
Poulter is a distinguished digital marketing professional and technology expert, with a particular emphasis on Conversational AI strategy. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Vixen Labs, James has been instrumental in establishing the company as Europe's leading full-service Voice Agency. Vixen Labs specializes in voice consultancy and design, assisting brands in leveraging voice-first technology and conversational interfaces for effective communication and promotion.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the ministry landscape and the team at Dunham+Company is constantly evaluating how these new tools can move your cause forward.
On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Chief Technology Officer, Danielle Rice, and Chief Strategist Social Media+Innovation, Nils Smiths, join the show to discuss the creative ways non-profit organizations can harness the power of AI tools to enhance their impact and efficiency. From streamlining administrative tasks, optimize resource allocation, improve program effectiveness, repurposing content, to increasing organization security, AI is here to stay and by adopting AI tools, ministries can maximize their reach and impact, ultimately advancing their mission.
In this episode, we tackle the vital topic of year-end planning for nonprofit organizations, churches, and any mission-driven group navigating the final stretch of the year. Join us as we explore insightful strategies to ensure your organization handles donors with care and integrity, paving the way for continued mission success. In this program we also discuss how recent events, like elections, influence donor behavior and how to anticipate their impact.
Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to the nonprofit world, this episode provides actionable advice to help you end the year strong. Tune in and discover how to nurture your donor relationships and secure the support needed to carry your mission into the new year.
Welcome to this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, hosted by Trent Dunham with co-host Nils Smith. Today, we’re joined by Danielle Rice, the digital and data science lead at Dunham & Company, to explore the powerful role of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in driving organizational growth.
In this insightful discussion, we break down what KPIs are and why they’re essential for any organization aiming for success. Learn how to effectively set and utilize KPIs across various functions like program growth, fundraising, and marketing. Discover the importance of visualizing data for decision-making and hear firsthand experiences and strategies from our hosts and guest on implementing KPIs to achieve measurable improvements.
Whether you’re a leader of a large nonprofit or a small startup, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to harness KPIs for better data-driven decisions.
In this episode, Dunham+Company’s Chief Creative Officer, Dan Sumpter, flips the script by interviewing our host, Trent, on a topic that resonates deeply with organizations today—how to grow in a healthy way. This isn't about personal growth but rather scaling organizationally without losing sight of core values and mission.
Join us as we explore the pressures and opportunities of growth, balancing innovation with consistency, and staying true to your mission while meeting the expectations of donors and stakeholders. Listen in for a dynamic discussion that promises valuable takeaways for leaders striving to grow responsibly and effectively.
In today's fast-paced digital world, where communication is often reduced to quick texts and bold social media statements, have we lost the art of nuance? Join Trent as he explores this crucial aspect of leadership that can shape not only the trajectory of our organizations but also enhance our personal relationships.
In this episode, learn how nuanced communication can guide leaders to make better decisions, facilitate open dialogue, and invite feedback. We'll discuss the concept of "nuanced decisiveness," showcasing historical examples like General MacArthur’s tunnel vision during the Korean War versus George Washington’s flexible strategies in the Revolutionary War.
Tune in to discover practical steps to enhance your leadership through thoughtful communication, open-mindedness, and humility. Rediscover the balance between confidence and adaptability and learn how nuanced leadership can lead to more effective decision-making and stronger teams.
Join Trent in this eye-opening episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, featuring Rick Dunham, founder and chairman of Dunham and Company. They explore a timely and significant piece of research from the Generosity Commission, "The Shifting Landscape of American Generosity."
Discover how macroeconomic factors have influenced giving behaviors over the years, leading to a noticeable downturn in donor participation rates, even as total philanthropic dollars have increased.
Whether you're part of a nonprofit organization, a church, or simply interested in philanthropy, this episode offers valuable insights into the current state and future direction of American generosity. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enrich your understanding and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to thrive in today's challenging environment.
On this Cause+Effect episode, Nils Smith and Dan Sumpter join Trent in a discussion on rebranding your company. They review what a brand refresh is and how to figure out when it is time for your organization to consider implementing one. Whether you're a startup or an established organization, understanding the dynamics of a brand refresh can be crucial for staying relevant and competitive.
They also highlight how Dunham+Company helps organizations through the rebranding process and bring you behind the scenes as they unpack the work they are doing on a updating the brand of their own organization. If you’ve thought about rebranding your company, or if you even should, this episode will help you unpack what a brand refresh is and why you should or shouldn’t move forward with a rebrand.
In this episode of the Cause+Effect podcast, Trent and Nils Smith discuss the recent ruling against Google in a massive antitrust lawsuit and the resulting shifts in the social media landscape. They discuss how this could impact the ways you search on the internet in the future and give insights into the leading platforms that you should consider creating content on.
Nils highlights what he believes to be the top two platforms to create vertical shortform video content, while also discussing how AI impacts the way people now search for things on the internet.
As you seek to grow the support for your organization, do donors know how their generosity is advancing the cause of your ministry? How your ministry is changing lives, advancing Kingdom work, and providing resources for those seeking answers?
This is where a Case for Support plays a critical role!
On this episode of the Cause+Effect podcast, Trent is joined by Rick Dunham, Founder and Chairman, and Dan Sumpter, Chief Creative Officer, to discuss the development of this important tool.
Dunham+Company Founder, Rick Dunham, returns to the show to unpack some very revealing research on Christian radio, specifically, listeners who have a favorite station. The study reveals who these ‘P1’ listeners are (those who have a favorite radio station), and why they do (or don’t) support their favorite station. What motivates them to tune in to a station? And further, what motivates their support?
Rick highlights the major findings and uncovers steps for you to take as a result of this research. Specifically, understand their listening habits, reconsider some of your messaging, and integrate more stories of life-change.
As a Fellow at the Cultural Research Center and Associate Professor of Humanities at Arizona Christian University, Dr. Adam Rasmussen draws upon his 25 years of experience in Christian education to inspire students to thrive under the Lordship of Christ in all aspects of their lives. With a passion for helping students connect their faith with reason and culture, he guides them to make meaningful and relevant connections that go beyond mere academic study.
The Cultural Research Center's most recent research has considered what type of Christian leader is more likely to hold Biblical views. We are excited to discuss these findings and other important insights from Dr. Rasmussen's research.
It’s no surprise that stubbornly high inflation has impacted how donors are feeling. That’s why you need to understand the implications of the current economic climate.
On this episode Founder+Chairman of Dunham+Company, Rick Dunham, joins the show to discuss the latest iteration of our popular Donor Confidence Study, exploring the implications of the new findings.
To access the study, visit https://www.dunhamandcompany.com/insights and click on “Research.” And for more insights like this come back next time for fresh content from the Cause+Effect Podcast.
While raising capital to move a ministry’s strategy forward is important work, it can also create leadership anxiety and seem daunting and even overwhelming.
On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Erik Rogers, the Chief Strategist for Donor Advancement at Dunham+Company, joins the show to discuss the value of capital campaigns and the most common mistakes organizations make when trying to raise these financial resources. Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or venturing into your first campaign, this insightful discussion is essential listening.
When it comes to digital advertising, the only constant we can count on is change. Thanks to Meta’s latest privacy policy updates, digital advertisers and marketers have been forced to shift strategies to maintain performance from previous years. Does this mean that the opportunity for a successful outcome is dead?
In this podcast, Dunham Company’s Director of Digital Madison Farrell shares her learnings from these recent shifts and ways to adapt to these changes.
As we look at today’s digital landscape, we can easily see how crowded the marketplace has become, placing a greater demand for quality content to cut through the noise. On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we discuss the need for a solid SEO strategy to amplify your organization’s reach and create greater impact. Don’t miss out!
When you think of change management your mind likely flips toward systems, processes, and goals.
Dunham+Company Chief Strategist, Jonathan Pitts, joins the podcast to discuss how to navigate change by suggesting that one of the greatest things to consider in change management is you. Your soul. Your growth. Your Christlikeness. Jonathan shares three lessons he has learned that will certainly help you navigate a season of change: 1) assume the Lord is provoking the change; 2) assume He cares about your character more than anything; and 3) assume God wants your relationships to stay intact.
Change is inevitable. Tension in change is inevitable. How you manage that change is up to you. Join us on this episode to learn how to change well!
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the nonprofit world by providing tools for better outreach and engagement through personalized messaging and content delivery. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, taped live at the Dunham-Company Annual Summit, James Poulter joins us to discuss the changes and speculate about the future of AI's impact on ministry work. He champions the integration of AI in ministry, harnessing its analytical capabilities to deepen understanding of constituent needs, automate mundane tasks, and empower ministers to focus on meaningful interactions within their communities.
Poulter is a distinguished digital marketing professional and technology expert, with a particular emphasis on Conversational AI strategy. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Vixen Labs, James has been instrumental in establishing the company as Europe's leading full-service Voice Agency. Vixen Labs specializes in voice consultancy and design, assisting brands in leveraging voice-first technology and conversational interfaces for effective communication and promotion.
Donors give to organizations and ministries that they trust, to leaders that they trust, and where they think their donations will make a difference. Taped at Dunham+Company’s Annual Summit, Trent and Rick Dunham are joined by Una Osili to discuss the current landscape of generosity, current trends, and future expectations around non-profit giving.
Osili is the Associate Dean for Research and International Programs at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. She is a global expert on philanthropy with more than two decades of experience in leadership, economic policy and research across the public and private sectors.
Organizations go through different phases of growth, but not every phase requires the same type of leadership to experience success.
In this episode, popular podcast host and thought leader Carey Nieuwhof and Trent Dunham discuss three different kinds of leadership that are necessary for three very distinct phases of organizational growth.
Listen today to discover if your leadership lines up with the phase of growth your organization is in.
Captured live from the Dunham+Company 2024 Summit in Anaheim, California, Trent Dunham reveals ten trends that ministries should be preparing for in the new year. This includes the increased use of text as a communications medium (including fundraising), the reality of AI and its impact, the continued fragmentation of audiences, and more!
It is simply impossible for a ministry to reach its full impact without utilizing video as a key component of the messaging. In our latest episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we dive into the dynamic world of video storytelling for ministries and its pivotal role in fundraising.
Dan Sumpter, Chief Creative Officer, and Nils Smith, Chief Strategist for Social Media and Innovation, join Trent Dunham to showcase the unique power of video in capturing and conveying ministry impact and creating a deeper emotional connection with audiences. You’ll gain valuable insights on creating compelling video content that vividly brings your ministry's mission to life and effectively boosts fundraising efforts. And you’ll learn how to harness the transformative power of visual storytelling to uplift and inspire your ministry's community and move them to their deepest level of engagement with your organization.
Most leaders want to avoid focusing time and resources on their technology infrastructure, yet it is likely the secret to freeing up more time and resources to fulfill ministry goals. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham is joined by Danielle Rice, Chief Technology Officer at Dunham+Company, to explore how robust and healthy technology infrastructure can help ministries more effectively spread their message, connect with followers, streamline operations, create digitally secure environments, and steward resources – both time and money. In this current digital age, a robust technology foundation is an essential tool for empowering ministries to reach their desired audience and fulfill their unique mission.
No ministry can reach its maximum impact without a great website that is easy to use and engages the user.
On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Nils Smith, Chief Strategist for Social Media and Innovation, and Madison Delage, Associate Director of Digital Strategy, join the show to explore the essential elements and changing technology involved in website development. Listeners will hear how a great website must connect with donors, provide transparency, and be the primary tool that communicates a ministry's core message and ultimately, enhances the ministry's effectiveness and impact.
Everyone knows that having a great website is a non-negotiable and now you will have the tools to get it done!
Podcasting has now become an essential tool to extending a ministry's reach and for sharing your unique Kingdom message.
The importance of podcasting in building a platform has never been more clear, and in this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham is joined by Nils Smith and Director of Podcasting, Chris Lawson, to discuss the current state of podcasting, trends that will shape 2024, and the keys to developing successful podcasting content.
What platforms are growing? What are the best tricks for growing your audience? Should you use video as a part of your podcasting strategy? All these questions and more are answered in today's episode - don't miss out!
If you think direct mail is a tool of the past, think again! It has never been more important. On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Founder+Chairman, Rick Dunham, and Client Success Lead, Kaitlyn Riley, join the show to examine how direct mail can bring significant benefits to sharing your ministry's message and impact.
Listeners will hear how It provides a personal and tangible connection with your target audience, leaves a lasting impression, and effectively enables you to convey your ministry's message, events and initiatives in a fresh way. As year-end nears, it might just be time for your ministry to consider the role direct mail could plan in your overall strategy!
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the ministry landscape and the team at Dunham+Company is constantly evaluating how these new tools can move your cause forward.
On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Chief Technology Officer, Danielle Rice, and Chief Strategist Social Media+Innovation, Nils Smiths, join the show to discuss the creative ways non-profit organizations can harness the power of AI tools to enhance their impact and efficiency. From streamlining administrative tasks, optimize resource allocation, improve program effectiveness, repurposing content, to increasing organization security, AI is here to stay and by adopting AI tools, ministries can maximize their reach and impact, ultimately advancing their mission.
A clear and compelling brand is key to anyone understanding the identity and purpose of your organization. Yet, unfortunately, most organizations lack a brand that is well defined and deeply integrated into the organization's identity.
Dan Sumpter, the Chief Creative Officer of Dunham+Company, joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to offer insights on how ministry leaders can discover the core emotional essence of their brand, define the deliverable promise, and effectively implement strategies around a clear brand identity that leads to more impact and better results.
We all know that a nonprofit board can either be an accelerant and encouragement to its leaders, or it can serve as an obstacle to achieving organizational goals. What makes the difference? On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, you will learn how to avoid miscommunication around specific roles and responsibilities, the best ways for governing boards to provide support, and how leaders can work in tandem with Boards to move the mission forward.
Nils Smith, the Chief Strategist of Social Media+Innovation at Dunham+Company, returns to the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss the enormous changes at Twitter and whether ministry leaders should consider using Threads from Instagram. In addition, he discusses the shifting landscape of the broader social media world, including: vertical video, the increasing dominance of YouTube, and how ministries must adapt quickly to reach new followers and increase their engagement.
God gives seasons for a reason. But, seasons change and change is inevitable in healthy and thriving organizations. Yet, navigating change is one of the more difficult tasks any leader or organization faces. On today's episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Tomlinson, the CEO of BDI (a full-service, omni-channel, marketing and fundraising agency for nonprofits) joins Trent Dunham to discuss their own experiences with navigating change and share what lessons they have learned for the path forward.
As a Fellow at the Cultural Research Center and Associate Professor of Humanities at Arizona Christian University, Dr. Adam Rasmussen draws upon his 25 years of experience in Christian education to inspire students to thrive under the Lordship of Christ in all aspects of their lives. With a passion for helping students connect their faith with reason and culture, he guides them to make meaningful and relevant connections that go beyond mere academic study.
The Cultural Research Center's most recent research has considered what type of Christian leader is more likely to hold Biblical views. We are excited to discuss these findings and other important insights from Dr. Rasmussen's research.
On this "Best Of" episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we revisit our time focused on how artificial intelligence is changing the nonprofit landscape and the keys to successfully navigating change. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, you will hear leaders from Dunham+Company's technology and innovation teams discuss how AI can help nonprofits achieve their missions. In addition, Jonathan Pitts, joins the podcast to discuss how to navigate change by suggesting that one of the greatest things to consider in change management is yourself.
On this "Best Of" episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we revisit our time with Dr. George Barna and our Chief Technology Officer at Dunham+Company, Danielle Rice. Best Selling Author and leading researcher, Dr. Barna, discusses his most recent research which dives into what type of Christian leader is more likely to hold Biblical views. In addition, Danielle joins the show to discuss how to move from tactics to strategy when using data in your organization.
In light of our current economy, it’s crucial to get a grip on the latest giving trends and how they inform your strategy moving forward. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast Rick Dunham, Founder of Dunham+Company and Trent Dunham, President of Dunham+Company, highlight some important findings from the 2023 Annual Report on Philanthropy and help you better understand current giving trends in America and their implications and discover how this research might impact your organization.
Together, let’s arm ourselves with this relevant data to make more impact… all for the greater good.
One year after the founder of Dunham+Company, Rick Dunham, stepped into a new role as Chairman, and Trent Dunham became the new President, the two are joined by Nils Smith to reflect on what worked well, what was uniquely hard, and why every organization must take seriously the work of succession and leadership transitions.
It is an insightful and honest conversation you will not want to miss!
When you think of change management your mind likely flips toward systems, processes, and goals. Dunham+Company Chief Strategist, Jonathan Pitts, joins the podcast to discuss how to navigate change by suggesting that one of the greatest things to consider in change management is you. Your soul. Your growth. Your Christlikeness. Jonathan shares three lessons he has learned that will certainly help you navigate a season of change: 1) assume the Lord is provoking the change; 2) assume He cares about your character more than anything; and, 3) assume God wants your relationships to stay intact.
Change is inevitable. Tension in change is inevitable. How you manage that change is up to you. Join us on this episode to learn how to change well!
When it comes to digital advertising, the only constant we can count on is change. Thanks to Meta’s latest privacy policy updates, digital advertisers and marketers have been forced to shift strategies to maintain performance from previous years. Does this mean that the opportunity for a successful outcome is dead?
In this podcast, Dunham Company’s Director of Digital Madison Farrell shares her learnings from these recent shifts and ways to adapt to these changes.
As we look at today’s digital landscape, we can easily see how crowded the marketplace has become, placing a greater demand for quality content to cut through the noise. On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we discuss the need for a solid SEO strategy to amplify your organization’s reach and create greater impact. Don’t miss out!
The latest research is in – and you can’t afford to ignore it. The most recent update of our Donor Confidence Study indicates that donors are pulling back and feeling a significant degree of pessimism about the economy. In light this, it’s imperative you stay proactive in keeping donors engaged and connected to your cause. In this episode, we’ll unpack the latest findings, and provide practical ways to keep your donors engaged amid difficult economic times.
Leadership is difficult in any capacity. It requires us to refine skills that we are not naturally wired with, which may challenge us in many ways. In this episode, Trent Dunham walks through the importance of listening as a leader, and ways in which he has learned to grow in this area. Give today’s podcast a listen and you’ll hopefully discover some keys takeaways to be proactive when it comes to listening well.
At times, the pace of technological change can be daunting, especially when it’s moving as fast as artificial intelligence (AI). In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, you will hear leaders from Dunham+Company's technology and innovation teams discuss how ethical AI can help nonprofits achieve their missions, how to leverage AI to make more informed decisions, and better engage with your communities. We hope you’ll tune into this value packed discussion and glean insight to create even more impact for your organization.
As cost-of-living continues to impact charitable giving, understanding how each generation engages in philanthropy will empower you to develop the most effective fundraising strategies for today. Dunham+Company and Giving USA have partnered together to release a brand-new special report on generational giving. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham, Rick Dunham and Josh Crowther unpack the latest findings, discuss the implications, and speculate about what it could mean for the future funding of ministry.
For a deeper dive, purchase your copy of the Giving by Generations special report by visiting givingusa.org today!
Following the annual Dunham Summit, Trent Dunham and Nils Smith sit down to discuss the highlights from this year's event, lessons learned from the featured speakers, and dive into some important questions about the upcoming year. How concerned should ministries be about the current economic situation? What role will video continue to play in compelling storytelling? And how can we speak to our donors around legacy giving? In this episode you will find answers to the questions and more - tune in and be encouraged!
Founding Pastor of one of North America's most influential churches, Carey Nieuwhof desires to help you overcome life's hardest and most crippling challenges. He joins the Dunham Podcast Network to share insights about his own journey, providing clear tools and guidelines if you feel stuck in a painful experience or are wrestling with one of the unique challenges of ministry. It is a powerful and insightful episode!
Holly Tate currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Growth @ Leadr. She is an international speaker, growth consultant, entrepreneur, and member of the Forbes Communications Council. Holly joins to the Cause+Effect Podcast today to discuss her recent insights about leading intergenerational teams, what the most recent research is saying about generation distinctions, and why she is optimistic about the future of Christian leadership.
As we approach the end of the year, the Dunham+Company teams sit down to discuss the best ways to keep your donor base engaged. This discussion includes details about the three main phases of the constituent funnel and how to keep donors moving through your engagement process. Also, how do ministries build awareness? What does effective communication look like? What is the role of automation? When are the best times to make giving asks? All these questions are answered and more - don't miss this important discussion!
Nils Smith, the Chief Strategist of Social Media+Innovation at Dunham+Company, returns to the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss the enormous changes at Twitter. Among all of the social media platforms, none have been as closely watched and as controversial as Twitter. Following the widely scrutinized purchase by Elon Musk, much of the debate has focused on the role of social media and who provides appropriate, if any, oversight. Nils helps us process the noise and consider all the ways Twitter might advance the platform of your ministry.
Is cryptocurrency still relevant? Should your ministry be accepting it as a giving channel? Or are you just curious about cryptocurrency? You’ve come to the right place! On this week's episode of The Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent Dunham is joined by Matt Hayes and James Lawrence from Engiven to discuss the current state of alternative currencies and what it means for the future of your ministry.
Danielle Rice, the Chief Technology Officer at Dunham+Company, joins the show to discuss how to move from tactics to strategy when using data in your organization. In the episode, we will learn how to best understand your audience by not only considering their interests, but also taking it a step deeper and understanding specific demographics and interactions that ensure your data strategy accomplishes your core objectives. Also, Danielle explains the importance of data governance to help you avoid future headaches!
Today’s guest is one of the world’s leading Christian researchers and you have certainly heard of his work! George Barna is a professor at Arizona Christian University and the Director of Research at the Cultural Research Center at ACU. His most recent research has considered what type of Christian leader is more likely to hold Biblical views. We are excited to discuss these findings and other important insights from Dr. Barna’s research.
As Trent Dunham transitions into his new leadership role as CEO of Dunham+Company, he shares with the Cause+Effect audience three phases that allow organizations to scale their work in a sustainable manner. Leading your organization through these three phases will ensure that you improve your employee experience and serve your clients well. Tired of doing things the same. way. every. year? Listen to this podcast and begin a new path forward!
As we near the last quarter of 2022, podcasting continues to increase in its influence and adoption. For many ministries, podcasting has become a major piece of their content platform. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Nils Smith and Chris Lawson join Trent Dunham to discuss three major trends that will change the way podcast content is developed and deployed in the coming years.
Nils Smith, Dunham+Company’s Chief Strategist for Social Media + Innovation, unpacks the future of Web3 and what it will mean for ministries. Web3, as an idea, is here to stay! Ministries need to understand how decentralization and blockchain technologies are affecting the ministry landscape. It is an important episode for the future of ministry influence – don’t miss out!
On this "Best Of" episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we revisit our time this season with Matt Hayes, James Lawrence, and the Dunham Digital Team. Matt Hayes and James Lawrence from Engiven to discuss how to get started with taking alternative currencies and why it’s vital to the future of your ministry. And, the Dunham Team discusses finding the balance between keeping user information private and fulling embracing the convenience of new digital tools can be tricky.
On this "Best Of" episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we revisit our time this season with Brian Mountjoy and Josh Crowther. Brian Mountjoy, the Chief Culture Officer at Dunham+Company, discusses how a company can keep a healthy team culture even when part of the team is working remotely. Josh Crowther, Executive Director of Dunham+Company Australia, to the show to discuss trends we’re expecting in 2022 and how your organization can be ready to pivot and respond to a new ministry landscape
On this "Best Of" episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, we revisit our time this season with David Kinnaman and Steve McBeth. Kinnaman, CEO of the Barna Group, joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss some of their most recent research concerning Christianity and the emerging generation. McBeth is the founding president of Disney Interactive Worldwide, former Senior Advisor for the Barna Group, and, more recently, he has worked in the faith film industry, where he has been active with many industry players and faith ministries in the entertainment arena.
It’s no surprise that this 40-year-high inflation has impacted how donors are feeling. That’s why you need to understand the implications of the current economic climate. We recently completed the fifth iteration of our popular Donor Confidence Study – and the results are concerning. On the episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast we explore our new findings.
User Experience can be complex. From user journeys and intuitive design, to prototypes and high-speed development – there's a lot to understand. In this episode of Cause+Effect, we break down some of these concepts to get to the simple truths and discover principles and practical steps to boost your ministry’s user experience, satisfy your donors, and create more Kingdom impact!
Erik Rogers, Chief Strategist for Donor Advancement, joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss the unique opportunities organizations have to identify, care for, and help foster the generosity of mid-level givers. Trent Dunham and Erik discuss the best strategies to make sure those with the most potential to grow in their generosity are being encouraged to embrace your organization’s vision in new ways!
There are a number of factors contributing to the changing landscape that ministries face today. Which in turn, is making it necessary for every organization to evaluate what strategies are being the most effective. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, the Dunham Table unpacks the types of new thinking and questions to ask that are necessary to reach a new audience as well as how to best shift existing resources to cause a change for more impact.
Nils Smith, Chief Strategist for Social Media+Innovation at Dunham+Company, joins Trent Dunham to welcome our new digital home - the Metaverse! Since the launch of the Metaverse, a network of 3D virtual worlds focused on social connection, ministries across the globe have started exploring how to best leverage it to share Good News and have greater reach and impact. Nils explores some best practices, where to begin, and invites us all on this new virtual adventure.
On this special episode Rick and Trent Dunham unpack how God is opening new doors to further the original vision of the company. They discuss what intentional leadership transition looks like and how they see things from different yet collaborative perspectives.
On this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent is joined by a few Dunham+Company team members to discuss the ever-changing nature of digital advertising. In particular, they dive deep on recent changes made by Meta and Google Analytics. In this important episode, you will learn how to faith-based organizations can stay relevant, use the best tools, and find the right audience for your unique platform and message.
Curious about cryptocurrency? Wondering if it can help your ministry or cause? You have come to the right place! On this week's episode of The Cause+Effect Podcast, Trent and Nils are joined by Matt Hayes and James Lawrence from Engiven to discuss how to get started with taking alternative currencies and why it’s vital to the future of your ministry.
Carey Nieuwhof is a former lawyer and founding pastor of Connexus Church in Canada. As one of the world’s most influential Christian thinkers, he is passionate about helping people thrive in life and leadership. Carey joins Trent Dunham on the Dunham Podcast Network to discuss how, after a season of burnout that almost took him out, he discovered how to get time, energy, and priorities working in his favor. This approach freed up more than one thousand productive hours a year for him and can do the same for you.
David Kinnaman, CEO of the Barna Group, joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss some of their most recent research concerning Christianity and the emerging generation. Kinnaman argues that in a world where always-connected smart devices and search algorithms educate and entertain, digital Babylon is the new context for discipleship. His recent book, Faith for Exiles, reveals findings from a groundbreaking three-year research study of young Christians whose faith remains resilient even in exile. Kinnaman remains full of faith that there is a path back to the church for many of these exiles, on this important episode Trent and Rick Dunham discuss Barna’s five research-based practices that could lead that way.
Trent Dunham welcomes Josh Crowther, Executive Director of Dunham+Company Australia, to the show to discuss trends we’re expecting in 2022 and how your organization can be ready to pivot and respond to a new ministry landscape. It is going to be a great year - let's all be ready for more effectiveness for more impact!
Steve McBeth is the founding president of Disney Interactive Worldwide, former Senior Advisor for the Barna Group, and, more recently, he has worked in the faith film industry, where he has been active with many industry players and faith ministries in the entertainment arena. Steve joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss his professional journey, how we can use innovation to advance a ministry's cause, and find new and exciting ways to reach our audience.
The pandemic has shifted or changed permanently the way many people experience the workplace. In this episode, Brian Mountjoy, the Chief Culture Officer at Dunham+Company, discusses how a company can keep a healthy team culture even when part of the team is working remotely. Creating a culture where everyone feels like they belong is more important than ever. Or, as Brian says, “If it impacts one person, it is worth it. If it impacts everybody, it is worth it.” You will not want to miss this episode!
Trent Dunham is joined by Dan Sumpter and Rick Dunham as they turn our attention to 2022. As ministries turn the calendar on their fundraising efforts, it is important to set aggressive priorities and ambitious goals as we move into the first quarter of a new year. Don’t miss this episode as we think through how we should approach January and learn some surprising insights to help keep the ministry momentum going!
Trent Dunham, President of Dunham+Company, shares a personal reflection on Psalm 33:4 in light of the Christmas season. As we end the year, the entire team behind the Dunham Podcast Network hopes you reflect on God's faithfulness towards you in 2021 as we begin to turn our attention to 2022.
On this episode of the Cause+Effect podcast, we invite you to the Dunham Table to listen in on a conversation between members of the senior leadership team at Dunham+Company as they discuss new issues around digital privacy. Finding the balance between keeping user information private and fulling embracing the convenience of new digital tools can be tricky. We are here to help! The team offers fresh insights, helpful tips, and counsel as we navigate the path forward.
Summary: Trent is joined by is Nils Smith, Chief Strategist for Social Media+Innovation at Dunham+Company, to discuss the importance of video as a primary way to communicate an organization’s mission, achieve outcomes, distribute content, and engage your audience. Whether your audience is donors, listeners, or a church congregation, video is increasingly the best way to reach more people, more effectively. In this episode of the Cause+Effect Podcast, you will learn the best methods, new strategies, and be inspired to take your video to the next level!
Description: In this solo episode with the President of Dunham+Company, Trent Dunham reflects on Paul’s teachings in the book of Ephesians to challenge listeners to lead towards unity within their organizations. We will learn together that the team that you are on is more important that the team that you lead. Trent contends that great leaders are humble, deep, and transparent. To learn more about Dunham+Company, visit www.DunhamandCompany.com.
Trent Dunham is joined at the Dunham Table by Nils Smith and Dan Sumpter to discuss strategies you can implement in the next 60 days to put your ministry in a strong position to end this calendar year and head into the new year. Trent also dispels some myths that are keeping you from having your best year-end ever. This is an episode you will not want to miss! For more resources to help you develop a clear ministry strategy, visit dunhamandcompany.com.
What are donors thinking as we head into Quarter 4? Rick Dunham joins today's episode to unpack the latest national research study on donor confidence that will help you better understand the psyche of donors amidst the ongoing pandemic. With the most up-to-date data that speaks to their household finances, commitment to giving, and their view of economy, you’ll discover fresh insights to lead your organization further in 2022. Download your free copy of the research today here: https://www.dunhamandcompany.com/insights/research/
In this episode of the Cause+Effect podcast our Director of Podcasting, Chris Lawson, joins Trent Dunham to discuss the importance of podcasting in building a platform and explain the priorities when it comes to developing successful podcasting content. Dunham+Company is on the forefront of the growing podcast industry and is proud to offer this service to its clients as a strategic tool to reach your desired audience.
Join our table of experts as they discuss a newly released study that digs deep into Christian Teaching/Talk radio listeners and donors, and unpack who’s listening, who’s giving, and why. If you’re a Christian radio station, a broadcast ministry, or use Christian radio to reach an audience, this research is for you! To get your free copy today, head to www.dunhamandcompany.com/fundraising-research/christian-teach-talk-research/.
Wes Gay is a StoryBrand certified guide who helps businesses and churches across America clarify their messaging in order to better connect with their audience. He joins today’s episode to discuss how you can best share your message through effective marketing for greater impact.
Nils Smith joins the Cause+Effect Podcast to discuss trends, post-pandemic leadership, and how to navigate the dangers of social media engagement. Nils serves as Dunham+Company’s Chief Strategist Social Media + Innovation and is the author of The Social Media Guide for Ministry. Nils is regarded as a world-leading expert on social media and nonprofit strategy.
In this class episode, Nils Smith, Chief Strategist for Innovation and Social Media at D+C is back to highlight for us the importance of ‘getting better.’ He offers insight into enhancing innovation through resisting the fear of failure, strengthening internal relationships, creating an innovative physical space, and maybe even putting something to death that no longer works.
Danny Forshee, Lead Pastor at Great Hills Baptist Church in Austin, Texas, challenges leaders to stay emotionally healthy by paying attention to biblical rest. Here’s your opportunity to take inventory when it comes to your pace of life and ministry.
Marketing is more than just communicating information. It’s connecting YOUR mission to the felt need of your audience. Join today’s episode as few Dunham team members unpack the importance of assessing the deepest felt need of your target audience and identifying your distinctiveness as an organization. We get practical with the challenges we all face as marketers and provide a starting point to elevate your brand positioning.
In this episode, Kevin Herrin, the lead pastor of The Fellowship Church, a vibrant, diverse congregation in Texas City, Texas joins us the show. Kevin unpacks what it means to be ‘aggressively obedient’, how your self-worth related to Christ affects those around you more than you realize, and how his new podcast is equipping leaders to lead the hard way – from the heart. Whether you’re leading a massive organization or toddlers at home, this message is for you.
Brian Mountjoy, our Chief Culture Officer, is back to talk with Trent about creating a healthy culture in your organization through the means of accountability, humility, ‘leading up’ and giving honor to whom honor is due. Don’t miss these simple tips for improving the culture of your organization in 2021 – and beyond.
D+C Chief Strategist Troy Page unpacks church marketing strategies as we head into what is sure to be a unique fall. He and Trent highlight the importance of knowing who you are, maintaining a digital presence, effective communication channels, and the need for great content. If you want to open your church with a bang this fall, you’ll want to hear this conversation! Because it’s all for one purpose: Get people engaged in God's Word and in relationship with Him. That's the outcome we're all looking for.
To learn more about how your church can maximize impact this fall, visit https://www.dunhamandcompany.com/church/.
Rick Dunham unpacks some very revealing research on Christian Radio, specifically, listeners who have a favorite station. The study reveals who these ‘P1’ listeners are, and why they do (or don’t) support their favorite station. What motivates them to tune in to a station? And further, what motivates their support? Rick highlights the major findings and uncovers steps for you to take as a result of this research. Specifically, understand their listening habits, reconsider some of your messaging, and integrate more stories of life-change.
Download the full research here: https://www.dunhamandcompany.com/fundraising-research/new-research-release-on-listeners-to-christian-radio/
In this ‘solo’ episode, Trent openly shares about a difficult season he walked through and what it taught him about healthy leadership. He unpacks how taking time to deal with a personal crisis can make you a better leader, the danger of defining success as the world does, when it’s ok to take a step back, and the value of wise counsel. Here’s a takeaway for any leader: Never put on your shoulders what belongs in God’s hands.
Register for the free Giving USA webinar on June 16 here: https://dunhamandcompany.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VhZDXHdmQ7Cegj-lbx5_bg?goal=0_b82a25e92a-2d38185506-429423268
Trent leads a lively round table discussion with D+C Chief Creative Officer, Dan Sumpter and our Director of Marketing, Anna Ponton. They lay out struggles organizations face when it comes to marketing and solutions to those challenges. You’ll get insight into the importance of the energy around your brand, tools you can develop, and how to bring symmetry to your content. Marketing is more than just information. It’s connecting your mission to the felt need of your audience. It’s a statement: “We’re going somewhere. We’re charging up that hill. Come go with us.”
The myth of the summer slump in fundraising is often used as an excuse to justify dips in revenue during June, July and August. But instead of making this assumption and dialing back on your efforts and communication, Trent shares a better way. In this episode, he charges churches and nonprofits to combat this mythical summer slump with some practical tips on communication, summer campaigns and clear goals. Don’t make your so-called ‘summer slump’ a self-fulfilling prophecy. Instead, turn it upside down!
How can you motivate your donors to be as generous as possible? Rick and Trent dive into some practical ways to effectively engage your supporters and move them toward supporting Kingdom purposes. They explore what you can control and what you cannot control. Be careful not to “get in the way” of the things that motivate your donors to give. With donor retention at an all time low, it’s more important than ever to take responsibility for the donor relationship.
The podcast world is exploding. Nils Smith and Chris Lawson are here to talk through all things podcasting and some shifts happening with big companies like Apple and Facebook. They explain why staying diversified in your distribution and flexible when it comes to technology is crucial. Chris unpacks the biggest barrier to a successful podcast (Hint: it’s all about content) and why doing the same thing you’ve been doing is no longer going to cut it. There’s a greater opportunity than ever before to attract people to your vision and, beyond that, engage them in your mission. Don’t miss it!
iDonate is a digital giving system and fundraising software provider that exists to help nonprofits grow. Founder and CEO Ray Gary shares his vision of bringing excellence to the nonprofit world by building a unified donor account across all channels. He emphasizes the importance of giving the donor the ability to dictate how and when they want to transact and ways to ensure your organization is raising the maximum amount of funds. He shares the importance of connecting people by moving them from transactions to relationships and maximizing the technology you invest in. The bottom line? It’s all about today’s donor.
Trent tackles the last four points of our 10-part series, Top Ten things to look out for in 2021. He talks of the critical need for nonprofits to emphasize new donor acquisition, prioritize data, invest the surplus wisely and bring back the QR code. Finally, he explains why you need to focus on these things today in order to set yourself up for growth tomorrow.
What kind of leader are you? Kevin is the lead pastor of The Fellowship Church, a vibrant, diverse congregation in Texas City, Texas. Kevin unpacks what it means to be ‘aggressively obedient’, how your self-worth related to Christ affects those around you more than you realize, and how his new podcast is equipping leaders to lead the hard way – from the heart. Whether you’re leading a massive organization or toddlers at home, this message is for you.
With now over four billion active users on social media, the potential for expanded reach is greater than ever. But with that opportunity comes some challenges. If your social accounts were shut down tomorrow, what would happen to your organization? Are you too dependent? Nils Smith dives deep into this social dilemma, unpacking ways to avoid pitfalls that accompany social media in 2021, and the overwhelming need to move people to your deepest level of engagement through an omni-channel approach.
If anything has taken off in the last decade, certainly it’s audio consumption. In part six of Trent’s 10-part series on things to look out for in 2021, Cory Verner, President and CEO of ONE Audiobooks takes the mic to unpack how to maximize your audiobook strategy. Cory has a gift for helping ministries and publishers leverage this format… a format with the highest engagement in publishing. He gives specifics on production, distribution and shares a few landmines to look out for along the way. When it comes to demographics, the data doesn’t lie: Everyone is listening.
In part 5 of our 10-part series, Erik Rogers, D+C Chief Strategist for Major Gifts, dives into the importance of a defined strategy to invest in your mid-level donors and why it’s crucial to the growth of your organization in 2021. Erik and Trent explore how to identify a mid-level donor, specific ways to cultivate that relationship and keep them engaged, and intentional strategies to see year-over-year growth as a result of their giving. Listen today!
One takeaway: It goes beyond simply the next gift… it’s all about seeing donors become truly invested in the ministry.
If texting is not a part of your 2021 strategy, it will be after you listen to this. In part four of our 10-part series, Mike Cantrell, founder of Ministry by Text joins the podcast to lay out the importance of integrating text messaging as part of your omni-channel communication plan… and doing it effectively. Mike gives us the two most important things to think about as you launch your text strategy and offers proven tactics for utilizing this popular tool. Text has the highest open rate of any communication channel today… the time is now!
In part 3 of our 10-part series, Trent unpacks the need to clarify your brand and case for support in 2021. In a world that’s getting noisier by the minute, what makes you distinct from other organizations and how do you communicate that effectively? How good are you at listening and how do you determine the felt need of your audience? Are you telling your story consistently? So much has changed in the last year, but we’ve learned a lot! Listen today for practical steps will lead you toward more impact in 2021.
Part 2 in this 10-part series, Trent welcomes our friends from Engiven, a company on a mission to crypto enable the nonprofit community. They unpack its functionality and purpose, some macro trends they are seeing, and when and how this currency might normalize. Don’t be overwhelmed! It’s so much easier and more accessible than you think.
Part 1 in this 10-part series, Trent talks with Rick Dunham, Founder and CEO of Dunham+Company, about a number of factors that are likely to contribute to what happens to giving to charities in the U.S. in 2021. Should we anticipate similar levels of giving in 2021 that we saw in 2020, or are things about to get much worse? Rick and Trent discuss several factors and their likelihood to contribute the philanthropic landscape in 2021 and beyond.
In this episode of the Dunham podcast, Trent interviews Alan Wright, lead pastor at Reynolda Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to unpack incredible insight from his book, ‘The Power to Bless, How to Speak Life and Empower the People You Love.’ You’ll discover what Alan calls the most important spoken blessing in the Bible, learn how to move from an ‘unblessed mentality’ to a ‘blessed mentality,’ and pinpoint five struggles of the unblessed life. Listen today!
Join as Trent unpacks how this update will greatly affect its users, the importance of transparency from big tech, the implications for Facebook, and why it’s critically important to stay informed, now more than ever. Listen to the end for three practical tips on what you can start doing… today.
We’re all leaning into the digital environment more than ever, and leading that charge is our Chief Strategist for Digital + Data Science, Danielle Rice. Danielle has found a niche in applying for-profit technologies and cutting-edge innovation to nonprofits like you. She unpacks why data science should be a priority, gives practical, accessible digital marketing tips for churches and nonprofits, and shares what she’s most excited about in 2021. The heart behind it all? Technology can be used to change lives – so let’s be smart about it.
Understanding someone else’s story often informs and gives perspective to your own. And this is one story you’ll want to hear! Today Trent talks with Steve Gatena, CEO of pray.com, the one-stop shop for faith audio content. Steve unpacks his eventful journey to creating what he calls the ‘digital destination to faith’, leadership lessons he learned along the way, the challenges of launching something from nothing, and the key to healthy innovation.
No matter how big or small your sphere of influence, this leadership insight from Jay Strack, founder of the Student Leadership University, will strengthen and inspire you. Jay is passionate about starting early when it comes to leadership training and reminds us that what we do today determines our tomorrow. He and Trent discuss the importance of servant leadership, remaining steadfast through various seasons, surrounding yourself with the right people, and the impact of what Jay calls ‘relational leadership.’ (Hint: Be a giver not a taker!)
Trent takes the mic and challenges us to pause as we consider the whirlwind of 2020 for churches and ministries across the globe. He looks at how donors responded to the pandemic, why so many churches and nonprofits saw an increase in giving, and most importantly, where we go from here. The current state of things in 2021 will no doubt provide opportunities like never before to be a place of refuge for people, resetting their perspective, and bringing them back to the basics. We’re still in this – together.
As leaders launch into 2021 after an exhausting 2020, how do we equip ourselves to lead most effectively? Trent and Chuck talk about practical ways you can transform your leadership in the midst of high demands and constant pressure.
Brad Davies, VP of Salem Web Network, is in the studio offering best practices for ministries in the digital space, no matter the size. Brad is a leader in innovation and helps ministries maximize engagement and potential donors, leveraging that audience for the growth of the organization. He offers keys to digitally capturing, cultivating and converting high lifetime value donors, and challenges us to identify that one area to focus on optimizing in 2021.
The Giving Company is a technology company in the Christian space with the goal of distributing revenue and income to those who need it. They are 100% faith and family friendly with a mission to leverage the platforms already developed for the purpose of maximum Kingdom impact. President and CEO David Henriksen joins Trent to unpack their unique process of innovation and creativity, the biggest mistakes technology leaders often make, and how to prioritize the values of your organization.
Dealing with stress, difficult people, and marriage hardships are just a few real life issues facing so many today. Berni Dymet, CEO and Bible teacher of Christianityworks is bringing these topics back to the Bible and taking new ground for the Kingdom everyday. Berni shares insights on his powerful conversion, the challenges and opportunities that come with leading a global ministry, facing spiritual opposition, and the value of personal holiness.
Brian Mountjoy, our Chief Encouragement Officer, is back to talk with Trent about creating a healthy culture in your organization through the means of accountability, humility, ‘leading up’ and giving honor to whom honor is due. Don’t miss these simple tips for improving the culture of your organization in 2021 – and beyond.
Kent Woodyard, a business development leader at Amazon, discusses where he has seen innovation take place in a healthy way when it comes to technology and the church. He challenges leaders to use innovative tools to build relationships and to continually assess what’s working, reinventing as you go. Here in 2020, people are feeling fractured, hopeless, and alone. So the question becomes, how can we insert the church into that? The possibilities are endless!
The latest giving research is in, and D+C CEO and Founder Rick Dunham joins Trent on today’s episode to unpack everything you need to know as you head into the final month of Quarter 4. Not only do they offer insight into how donors are currently feeling in the midst of this ongoing pandemic, they also give us practical tips on communication strategies for year-end efforts and leadership insight that will make ALL the difference.
If you want to reach more people and see greater ministry take place, it almost always requires innovation. Nils Smith, Chief Strategist for Innovation and Social Media at D+C is back to highlight for us the importance of ‘getting better.’ He offers insight into enhancing innovation through resisting the fear of failure, strengthening internal relationships, creating an innovative physical space, and maybe even putting something to death that no longer works. 2021 is around the corner and the truth is, innovation is no longer an option. It’s a necessity.
GOD IS HERE. That’s the message of Mike Novotny, lead pastor at The CORE in Appleton, Wisconsin and lead speaker for the broadcast ministry Time of Grace. With a passionate emphasis on humility and grace, Mike gives deep insight into healthy organizational transition and shares his enthusiasm for talking about things the church often avoids. He has a heart for the next generation and most importantly, he challenges us not to miss the satisfying presence of God that is better than life.
Nona Jones says leveraging Facebook is the biggest opportunity for churches that want to maximize ministry opportunities today. Nona leads faith partnerships for Facebook, helping various organizations in the areas of marketing and overall ministry. She talks with Trent about her role at Facebook, her social ministry consultancy organization, and leadership academy. Lastly, they discuss her latest passion, an organization she founded called Faith and Prejudice. This is a powerful conversation about impact, leadership, and racial reconciliation within the heart of the church.
Jeff Schreve has been the pastor of First Baptist Church Texarkana for 18 years and he joins Trent to talk about all things ministry and the growth of his church. They unpack the importance of effective media, a healthy marriage, and how getting to the root of your emotions can be the pathway to healing.
What began as a simple concert and surf contest on the beaches of San Diego sixteen years ago has grown to over 17,000 in attendance, raising millions for local charities. No doubt, Chad Butler, lead drummer for the band Switchfoot, and his wife Tina are taking new ground for the Kingdom every day. Chad and Tina talk with Trent about band life on the road with a young family, how their event BRO-AM is impacting their community (and beyond), and Tina’s recent leap of faith in the midst of a new and exciting season.
Media is the language of our culture, but unfortunately, Christians don’t always speak it very well. Phil Cooke is the CEO and Founder of Cooke Media Group – and he’s filling a niche among Christian nonprofits by helping them tell their story effectively through media. Phil talks with Trent about the biggest mistake churches make when it comes to communicating, tips on managing creative people, the best ways to promote and distribute content, and the importance of engaging your online audience. Phil encourages us to see this pandemic as an opportunity, not a limitation. The world has changed – and it’s never going back.
Is your church or ministry known for reconciliation? Tommy Kyllonen, Pastor of Crossover Church in Tampa, Florida, sets the bar pretty high when it comes to leading a church through the whirlwind of 2020. He talks with Trent about his unique approach and fresh vision for serving his community and gives us tangible action points for building unity, diversity and sensitivity among our people.
If you’re wondering how to keep your donors engaged as you head toward year-end, this one’s for you! D+C CEO and Founder Rick Dunham lays out the state of giving coming out of 2019, the effects of the pandemic in 2020, and some things to anticipate as we head into Quarter 4. He points to some of the characteristics associated with people who are more likely to stay financially engaged with nonprofits and the crucial need to double down on efforts to be relevant and authentic.
Danny Forshee is the Lead Pastor at Great Hills Baptist Church in Austin, Texas and is passionate about motivating his people to share the gospel on a regular basis. In this episode, he challenges leaders to stay emotionally healthy by paying attention to biblical rest. Here’s your opportunity to take inventory when it comes to your pace of life and ministry.
When a crisis hits, often major donors are the first to pull back. It’s been a wild ride in 2020 and Chief Strategist Major Gift Services at Dunham+Company, Erik Rogers, helps to make some sense of it all when it comes to keeping your major donors close and engaged. He also predicts how your organization’s major gifts will likely be impacted in Q4.
Joshua Crowther, Executive Director of Dunham+Company Australia, joins Trent to talk about the driving force of all we do (hint: Kingdom impact), how and why your ministry should define outcomes, and why it’s so important to value people over profit. Josh is passionate about his calling and has a perspective on this global pandemic you’ll want to hear. It’s pretty dark out there right now… but be encouraged – the light is breaking through.
As a ministry or organization, are you disciplined in your communication when it comes to your identity? When you’re presented with a new challenge (like the past 6 months!), how do you process it understanding the core of who you are? Brandon Thomas, Founding Pastor of Keystone Church, unpacks this concept and speaks to the importance of staying true to your DNA, even when the seasons change.
Short answer: YES! Liz West, Chief Strategist, Branding and Marketing at Dunham+Company, joins Trent to unpack the importance of assessing the deepest needs of your target audience and identifying your distinctiveness as an organization.
Nathan Brown is the CEO of Christian Media and Arts Australia (CMAA), a catalyst to empower those who reach the world through arts and media. His discussion with Trent will challenge you as a leader to continuously “reinvent” your ministry during this strange season and will help you understand two things: How people are using media and the arts to reach people for Jesus in savvy, smart ways; and why we, as Christian organizations, are better together.
Trent interviews his long-time friend, Michael Tomlinson (“MT”), the president and CEO of Brewer Direct, a full-service fundraising agency serving faith-first Christian nonprofits. MT gives us a powerful charge when it comes to refining and improving our strategies in the midst of this crisis. He offers five pivot points to pay attention to in the next six to twelve months, shares what’s keeping him up at night, and two bright spots he’s most excited about. A big takeaway: “The future is going to be an exciting new version that really doesn't look like the past."
Martin West, founder of XGAP (Execution Gap), has been a coach and mentor to D+C for the past 10+ years. His expertise is helping organizations fill the gap between their current performance and their ultimate potential. On this episode, Martin talks with Trent about how to fulfill your vision by focusing on goals and execution, team cohesiveness, and healthy leadership. In the midst of a global pandemic, he encourages us to embrace the messiness, stay vulnerable, and as best we can, simplify.
Trent is interviewed by Nils Smith, Chief Strategist of Social Media+Innovation at D+C, about lessons he’s learned while leading through a pandemic. They go behind the scenes about Trent’s life over the last few months leading a company through constant changes and uncertainty, while also leading his home and family well. Nils and Trent reflect on new opportunities for innovation that crisis brings, the challenge of staying mentally focused, and what post-COVID-19 life might look like.
As we find ourselves in late July still wrestling with the impact of a global pandemic, Trent candidly shares his own reflections on what it looks like to lead through something you’ve never experienced before… through the power of the Holy Spirit. He challenges us to lead in power, love, and self-control and uncovers the “secret sauce” to experiencing success in our families, our companies, our ministries… and beyond.
On today’s episode, Todd Isberner, founder of ShareMedia, gives fresh counsel from his 40+ years of helping to improve and expand the ministry of Christian radio. He talks with Trent about how to engage donors on their terms, maximize giving, shift from crisis to opportunity, and keep Christ above it all. Because the world needs your ministry now more than ever before. Listen in – you can’t afford to miss this one!
To learn more about Todd and his passion for coaching and mentoring men in their faith, family, fitness and finances – visit www.toddisberner.com.
How does your church engage with content? Facebook Live? YouTube? Church Apps? Podcasting? It’s a lot to process. In today’s shifting landscape, how you distribute content matters. Trent interviews Nils Smith on how to best communicate with your congregation and effectively handle media distribution.
The average American is spending more than 30 minutes a day on Instagram. It might be time to consider your strategy! Social media expert Nils Smith shares tips on growing your following, engaging your audience, and driving traffic to your website. Finding your voice on all platforms is definitely a process…this will help!
D+C’s favorite Chief Culture Officer Brian Mountjoy returns to the podcast to talk more about creating connection and camaraderie within the walls of your office. Do your people feel safe, valued, and heard? Are you remembering to have some fun? When it comes to the workplace, culture is everything.
In the midst of a national mental health crisis, Dr. Tim Clinton of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) is on the frontlines extending hope and encouraging the ‘church to be the church’ for such a time as this. He talks with Trent about the timely new initiative to train faith leaders and lay people in soul care, and the noble work of linking mental health and the church. If anything’s essential, it’s this topic.
Jonathan joins Trent for a moving conversation in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd. As Jonathan walks out his Kingdom calling in his own unique way, he challenges us to be leaders, not reactors, in the racial tensions of our day. He shares the importance of awareness, action, and God’s call to be uncomfortable with injustice.
Allan Houston brings a timely message of responsibility and action for leaders to stop racism in America. He draws parallels between what he’s learned on basketball court and how he's influencing the next generation to implement change.
A new avenue of the church has come to stay, and Pastors Bayless and Harrison Conley in Southern California are here for it! We talk specifics on leadership, online service innovation, how to “simplify in order to strengthen”, and the powerful perspective that God has chosen YOU to lead during this very season.
Matt Chandler and Josh Patterson from The Village Church share how their team became proactive and quickly adapted to the reality of church during COVID-19. They continue to stay energized through innovation, encouragement and enduring leadership.
We uncover fresh research regarding giving during a global pandemic with key takeaways from the data and donor mindset for the future. Stay on message, double down, and be encouraged – donors are engaged and things are looking up!
Dr. Jack Graham and Dr. Jarrett Stephens of Prestonwood Baptist Church give their perspectives on this unique season of ministry and why they want to get the “roof off and the walls down.” They share what they believe is the key to why their church is currently thriving and inspire us to jump in on the frontlines of all God is doing.
It’s multi-generational leadership at its best! Visionaries Skip and Nate Heitzig of Calvary Church Albuquerque discuss how they’ve pivoted their ministry during this season of quarantine and offer tangible examples of new ways to reach people in your unique ministry space.
That’s a wrap for season one of The Dunham Podcast! Trent highlights some of the experts, ministries, and topics that brought valuable insight and gives a sneak peek into season two including topics such as maximizing engagement through social platforms and how to shape culture in your organization. Stay tuned for a special podcast release this week!
Join us as we unpack The Infinite Dial, valuable research around digital media consumption. Don’t miss these practical implications for your organization when it comes to social media trends, the growth of smart speaker ownership and in-car audio consumption. Biggest takeaway? Start a podcast!
Pastor Alan Wright had a powerful, unique call to ministry, and today he has a powerful, unique message for us all. He talks with Trent about his passion to free others from shame through the gospel of grace and unpacks the power of blessing. If you’re a parent, you’ll want to hear this one!
Trent discusses how #GivingTuesdayNow hopes to ignite a spirit of generosity in the midst of unprecedented times of challenge and need with Head of Communications for Giving Tuesday, Caryn Stein.
Join Trent and John Bivona, Senior Biosafety Officer for the University of Chicago - Howard T. Ricketts Laboratory, as they discuss our response to COVID-19 as leaders in our organizations from his 15+ years of experience dealing with high consequence pathogens such as MERS, SARS and Ebola.
We get it. It’s tempting to panic… but don’t! Rick Dunham offers a better perspective around giving for nonprofits during the COVID-19 crisis, and the best way to communicate with your donors. Now is not the time to back off… but to lean in!
Trent interviews Nils Smith as they address strategies for an effective livestream experience and anxiety surrounding the new norm when it comes to budgets and giving. God CAN use this as a season of harvest for the Kingdom. We’re praying for you!
Do the employees of your organization want to go to work? Creating a vibrant culture within your company is critically important. Today, Trent talks with Brian about instilling a sense of belonging, and the benefits of not only working hard, but playing hard, too.
Trent talks with Rick about insightful research that shaped his approach to marketing and unpacks the importance of donor variety, making a heart connection, and putting the power in the donor’s hands.
Andrew found himself lying on the floor of his apartment, sobbing: “God, I’m doing everything I’m supposed to do, and I still don’t feel closer to you…” From that point of desperation, he learned how to undress the layers of legalism and religiosity that’s so often added to the Gospel while getting back to the core message of dependence on Christ.
Ever been in a meeting that seemed to lack energy and focus…or worse, felt like a waste of your time? Today, we flip the script as Nils Smith interviews Trent Dunham on how to effectively lead a meeting – with purpose!
It doesn’t get more meta than a podcast on podcasting! In this episode, Trent speaks with Casey Helmick, Dunham+Company’s Chief Strategist. Casey talks about the ins and outs of podcasting, touching on key mistakes you should avoid and offering tips that will help you make the most impact on air.
Let’s talk public speaking – for extroverts AND introverts! Trent interviews his good friend Nils Smith, D+C Chief Strategist Social Media + Innovation on how to become a better communicator. Spoiler alert: The best way to become a better speaker… is to keep speaking.
What gets you up in the morning? Why does your organization exist? In this episode, Trent talks with Rick Dunham on how to provide focus and cast a vision around the identity of your organization...and the importance of a tangible roadmap to get you there.
In this first episode, Trent talks with Rick Dunham, founder of D+C (aka: his dad) about his consulting background and how the company came to be.