What is the best way to fundraise for your charity? Join Matt and Ben in their pursuit of being good marketers as they explore how current trends in society affect the charity world. Get your questions answered by sending your topic to junkmail@frontier.io.
Episode Summary This episode of Frontier.FM gets right to the heart of what it means to lead inclusively in an era of backlash and burnout. Naomi sits down with Mateo Stewart—aka The Bearded Leader—to unpack how organizations can foster authentic belonging, challenge assumptions, and rethink donor and employee engagement through a lens of equity and neuro-inclusion.
Mateo shares his deeply personal and unexpected journey into the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and offers a candid, systems-aware critique of the performative traps organizations can fall into—alongside generous, actionable ways forward.
What We Talk About * 00:00 – Who is Mateo Stewart? From hospital corridors to boardrooms and TEDx stages, Mateo’s DEI journey began not with a mission—but with a reckoning. * 07:00 – Is Inclusion Backsliding? Naomi raises the red flag on visible pullbacks from DEI commitments. Mateo offers a behind-the-scenes look at what’s really happening in executive boardrooms. * 12:00 – The Business Case for Belonging Why creating psychologically safe workplaces isn't an HR "nice-to-have"—it’s a leadership necessity for innovation and long-term organizational health. * 18:00 – Culture, Process, Tools Mateo outlines his three-pillar framework for building inclusive workplaces that work—especially for nonprofits and lean teams. * 23:00 – Reframing Generational Values Gen Z? Gen X? Boomer? Doesn’t matter. The future of work is values-aligned, and leaders need to meet people—donors and employees—where they’re at. * 27:00 – Donor Relations and Neurodiversity Why your gala might be alienating a loyal donor, and how to rethink storytelling, communication preferences, and accessibility in donor engagement. * 33:00 – Inclusive Design Fails (and Fixes) The Diabetes Canada logo misfire, screen reader nightmares, and what your donation form might be silently doing to exclude supporters. * 39:00 – Avoiding Tokenism A hard-hitting reminder that people aren’t props. Ethical storytelling means doing better by the people whose lives your org impacts.
Key Takeaways * Inclusion isn’t a department—it’s a leadership competency. Every exec, every board member, every manager has a role to play. * Don’t assume donor preferences. Ask, adapt, and accept that one-size-fits-all storytelling won’t cut it. * Accessibility is respect in action. If your digital tools or events are unintentionally exclusive, you’re not just missing out, you’re causing harm. * Representation without respect is exploitation. If your engagement strategy features the people you serve, ensure their agency and dignity are centred.
If you’re ready to make inclusion a cornerstone of your fundraising—not a checkbox—visit us at https://www.societ.com/solutions/frontier/. Let’s build workplaces and campaigns where everyone can thrive.
Links & Resources * Connect with Naomi Perks on LinkedIn * Connect with Mateo Stewart on LinkedIn * Listen to episode #74 Ethical Storytelling: How to Transform Fundraising Narratives with Allison Rolle & Mariya Glubrecht
Five years after the world stopped, what has the nonprofit sector actually learned?
In this episode of Frontier.FM, Naomi Perks and Wes Moon speak with Kirk Schmidt, Chief Advisor of Operations at the Alberta Cancer Foundation, about the messy realities of crisis response, the limits of planning, and what COVID uncovered about nonprofit culture and capacity.
From making decisions without enough data to building flexible frameworks that can bend but not break, Kirk brings both practical wisdom and post-crisis clarity. Together, we explore what needs to change—structurally and culturally—so that nonprofits can lead through future disruptions with more confidence and less chaos.
You’ll want to hear this episode if you’re interested in…
Episode Timestamps (00:00:00) Meet Kirk and Wes: Punches, Plans & Pandemic Chaos (00:03:20) Planning Between Crises: Why We Always Wait Too Long (00:06:40) Leading Through Uncertainty: Making Decisions with Missing Info (00:10:45) It's Not the Plan—It’s the Process (and the Structure) (00:14:55) Organizational Culture Shifts: Listening, Inclusion & Evolving (00:18:15) Are We Better Off Now? Lessons We’re Still Learning (00:22:30) Wrap-Up: Building Real Capacity Before the Next Disruption
Connect With Our Guest * Kirk Schmidt on LinkedIn: Follow Kirk
Connect With Frontier * Naomi Perks on LinkedIn: Follow Naomi * Wes Moon on LinkedIn: Follow Wes * Contact Frontier * Visit us to learn more on our website
Episode Description In this episode, Naomi Perks is joined by Anna Melton to dig deep into Monthly Giving Week 2025, a new celebration and campaign designed to spotlight the power of monthly giving. Together, they explore:
Whether you're new to monthly giving or ready to level up, this episode will inspire and equip you to act.
Resources Mentioned Tools & Platforms * Glass Register – Free, easy-to-use donation tool * Fundraise Up – Donation platform that simplifies monthly giving
Nonprofit Examples * Concern Worldwide – Concerned Citizens * UNICEF Canada – Monthly Giving
Past Frontier Content * Episode 75: The Giving Report 2024 with Nicole Nessie and Jennifer Robbins
In this episode of Frontier FM, hosts Naomi Perks and Wes dive into the latest trends and challenges in the nonprofit sector, focusing on the recent extension of the charitable tax deadline to February 28th for Canadian nonprofits.
Guest Nicole Danesi from Canada Helps returns to discuss the implications of this extension, including strategies for leveraging additional time to boost donations, handling initial confusion around the announcement, and the impact of recent Canada Post labor disruptions.
They also explore broader issues like government funding changes, the potential 'Trump Slump,' and the evolving landscape of digital and traditional fundraising methods.
The episode concludes with advice on future-proofing nonprofits in uncertain times and fostering stronger donor connections.
Strategies to prepare for the future—whether or not the extension remains permanent.
00:00 Welcome to Frontier FM
00:37 Introducing the Guest: Nicole Danesi
00:51 Understanding the Charitable Tax Deadline Extension
02:00 Government Announcements and Their Impact
05:26 Strategies for Nonprofits During the Extension
14:10 Monthly Donations and Digital Giving Trends
19:27 The Rise of Giving Tuesday
24:27 Digital Transformation in Nonprofits
30:54 The Comfort of Traditional Banking
31:44 Diverse Giving Options for Canadians
33:14 The Importance of Human Connection in Fundraising
36:37 Personalization in Fundraising
41:27 Adapting to Uncertainty in the Nonprofit Sector
48:31 The Role of Social Media and Digital Platforms
52:11 Looking Forward: Resilience and Future Trends
56:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode, Megan and Naomi dive into a holiday classic with a twist: Grab your Bailey's and coffee as we explore the past, present, and future of fundraising in our Year In Review!
Relive the highs and lows of 2024 and look ahead to the exciting trends for 2025.
You Will Want to Hear This Episode if You Are Interested In...
(00:02:33) - Top 3 "Comeback Kids" of 2024
(00:11:24) - Biggest Fundraising Inconveniences of 2024
(00:20:28) - Impact of the Canada Post Strike on Giving Tuesday
(00:27:47) - Top 3 AI Tools of 2024
(00:42:25) - Top 3 Fundraising Myths Busted in 2024
(00:56:21) - Top 3 Epsiodes of Frontier FM in 2024
(01:05:05) - Trend Predictions for 2025
Resources & People Mentioned Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions - junkmail@frontier.io! Next After's Research on multi-channel donor value - https://www.nextafter.com/blog/advanced-guide-to-integrated-fundraising/ Perplexity - https://www.perplexity.ai/ Best AI caption creation tools of 2024 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRTgBXWnEvI Google Search Console - https://search.google.com/search-console/about Suno - https://suno.com/ Ethical Storytelling Episode - Episode 74 Mike Berg Episode - Episode 71 David Allison Epsiode - Episode 73 Charity Water Testing - https://www.nextafter.com/blog/a-look-inside-testing-optimization-at-charity-water/ Children of the Streets ad campaign - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exCGLf6NN_s&t=19s Fluvog - https://www.fluevog.com/community/ NotebookLM - https://notebooklm.google.com/ Connect With Frontier Follow Megan McCaffery - LinkedIn Follow Naomi - LinkedIn Website - https://Frontier.io Frontier on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/ Frontier FM's NEW Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontier.fm/ Frontier is back on Youtube! - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-tL0vsChb0InyvJcvZn_dA
Frontier.FM is produced by Megan McCaffery & the Frontier by Societ team
What's a non-profit to do with no mail for over two weeks?
In this episode, Megan and Naomi chat with Joanne Griffiths from Backpack Buddies to discuss some of the strategies they're trying as we head into their busiest giving season.
This podcast interview features Joanne Griffiths, co-founder of Backpack Buddies, a non-profit organization addressing childhood hunger. We explore Backpack Buddies growth over the last 13 years and talk about the challenges due to the Canada Post strike and explores alternative communication strategies to maintain donations.
You Will Want to Hear This Episode if You Are Interested In...
(00:00:53) - The Origin of Backpack Buddies
(00:07:15) - Securing Essential Resources as a New NPO
(00:14:28) - Impact of the Canada Post Strike
(00:16:02) - Future of Direct Mail and Budgeting
(00:17:14) - Donor Awareness and Response to the Strike
(00:21:24) - Volunteer Mobilization and Alternative Strategies
(00:25:22) - Exploring BVMs and Text Messaging
(00:27:07) - Donor Stewardship and Thank-a-thons
(00:28:02) - Collecting Donor Contact Information
(00:30:38) - Tax Receipts and CRM Management
(00:31:36) - Revenue Predictions and Strike Impact
(00:35:24) - Exploring New Social Media Platforms
(00:37:01) - Threads, BlueSky, LinkedIn and Instagram
(00:47:42) - Pros and Cons of Event Fundraising
(00:55:00) - NotebookLM
(00:56:03) - Greatest Fears
Resources & People Mentioned Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! The latest on the Canada Post strike: https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/canada-post-strike-four-week Check out these stratgies and more on our blog: https://www.frontier.io/resources/canada-post-might-go-on-strike Backpack Buddies: https://www.backpackbuddies.ca/ Connect with Joanne joanne@backpackbuddies.ca NotebookLM: https://notebooklm.google.com/ Connect With Frontier Follow Megan on LinkedIn Follow Naomi on LinkedIn Website: https://Frontier.io Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/ Frontier FM's NEW Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frontier.fm/
Frontier.FM is produced by Megan McCaffery & the Frontier by Societ team
Canada Post gave a 72hr strike notice today, so what does that mean for your Year End fundraising? In this episode, Megan and Naomi dive into some strategies you can implement in the face of a looming strike, and a few ideas you can still execute on before Giving Tuesday.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * (00:02:50) Stewardship, phone calls, and updating your CRM * (00:06:00) Advertising in digital * (00:06:55) Leveraging buckslips effectively * (00:07:30) Matches and Match alternatives * (00:11:05) Giving Tuesday, there's still time! * (00:11:45) Video, BVMs, and SMS * (00:21:29) Creating effective ad campaigns * (00:29:41) The role of your webite in your Year End fundraising * (00:31:15) Building a consistent donor journey * (00:36:21) Thanking Canada Post on your OEs * (00:38:30) Stewardship through video content * (00:44:55) Will they stirke? What we saw in 2018
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * The latest on the Canada Post strike: https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/cupw-canada-post-strike-1.7380827 * Check out these stratgies and more on our blog: https://www.frontier.io/resources/canada-post-might-go-on-strike * Calm's election ad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4F8iGSCUyY * ThankView: https://www.thankview.com/ * Cameo: https://www.cameo.com/ * Follow Derek on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derekweiss/
Connect With Frontier * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Naomi on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Frontier.FM is produced by Megan McCaffery & the Frontier by Societ team
In celebration of our LinkedIn Live event with NextAfter (and definitely NOT because we ran out of episodes in the queue) we are taking a dive into episodes past, pulling out some of our favourite moments from our time with our guests from NextAfter and their alumni!
Original Episodes * All About Testing with Nathan Hill from NextAfter, EP #70 * Discussing Digital Fundraising Trends with Brady Josephson, EP #53 * Tim Kachuriak of NextAfter Talks Online Optimization, the Digital Frontier, and Generosity, EP #25
Resources & People Mentioned * Check out our Linkedin Live event at https://www.linkedin.com/events/boostingyourcharity-semailsign-7242258572997222400/theater/ * Download the report at https://www.frontier.io/resources/unlocking-the-power-of-email-acquisition * Email YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io!
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco * Frontier on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frontiermarketingco/
Frontier.FM is produced by Megan McCaffery & the Frontier by Societ team
What do Taylor Swift, the Stanley Cup, and Spotify Wrapped have in common? They might just help you improve your fundraising! In this episode, Megan is joined by Wes Moon and some behind the scenes Frontier staff as they take a deep dive into the CanadaHelps 2024 Giving Report with special guests: Nicole Danesi from CanadaHelps and Jennifer Robins from Environics Analytics. This episode is packed with insights, data, and trends that are shaping the landscape of charitable giving in Canada.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (00:00:52) Nicole Dainese's Background (00:01:25) Jennifer Robbins' Background (00:04:04) Profile of Jessica: A Representative Canadian Millennial (00:07:01) Social Connectedness and Giving Trends (00:10:01) Impact of the Pandemic on Social Networks (00:14:40) Monthly Giving Trends (00:32:06) Gap Between Concern and Action in Environmental Giving (00:40:06) Effectiveness of In-Person Asks and Door-to-Door Canvassing (00:46:31) Importance of Hope in Fundraising (00:48:08) The 1% Improvement Theory (00:51:20) Leveraging Leassons from the For Profit Sector (00:56:48) Surprising and Not So Surprising Insights From Giving Reports Past and Present (00:59:20) Why are we Seeing Fewer Donors? (01:05:55) Giving Tuesday Best Practices (01:08:45) The Giving Report Personas (01:11:50) Online Giving Trends & Talks of a Recession (01:15:05) Pandemic Predictions vs Reality (01:21:30) Identifying and Leveraging Donor Values (01:24:01) The Consequences of Relying on Major Gifts (01:26:13) Greatest Fears
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * The CanadaHelps Giving Report * The Theory of Marginal Gains * Environics value reports * Epsiode #73 on Valuegraphics * How charities can maximize giving webinar * Genwell
Connect With Our Guests * Follow Nicole on LinkedIn * Follow Jennifer on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Wes on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Frontier.FM is produced by Megan McCaffery & the Frontier by Societ team
In this enlightening episode, Naomi takes a deep dive into the critical topic of ethical storytelling within the nonprofit sector with guests Allison Rolle and Mariya Glubrecht. Together they offer valuable insights into how nonprofits can honor and empower the individuals whose stories they share without compromising impact.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (00:00:00) Meet Mariya and Alli
(00:02:09) Importance of Ethical Storytelling
(00:04:26) Honoring Stories in Nonprofits
(00:07:12) Addressing Power Imbalances in Storytelling
(00:13:00) Capturing the Right Voice
(00:19:27) AI and Ethical Storytelling
(00:30:55) Acknowledging the Past and Moving Forward
(00:35:42) EDI Misteps and Fails
(00:39:43) Oversimplification and Manipulation
(00:47:12) Helping Organizations Embrace Ethical Storytelling
(00:51:32) NPOs that are Doing it Right
(01:01:00) Alli and Mariya Share Their Greatest Fears
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Algorithms of Oppression * Automating Inequality * Stop the Pity * Esther Lee
Connect With Our Guests * Follow Alli on LinkedIn * Follow Mariya on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Naomi Perks on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Frontier.FM is produced by Megan McCaffery & the Frontier by Societ team
Join Naomi and Megan as they are joined by the dynamic David Allison, a trailblazer in the field of value-based marketing and the mind behind Value Graphics Research Company.
David shared his journey from marketing to discovering that values, not demographics, are the key drivers of human decisions.
His research has led to the creation of a global inventory of values, changing how companies and nonprofits connect with their audiences. ]
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
Resources & People Mentioned
Connect With Frontier
Episode 72
With Megan McCaffery and Naomi Perks
Love is in the air, and so is the spirit of donor stewardship on this heartwarming episode of Frontier FM.
Join Megan as she welcomes Naomi Perks, a former client and the member of the Frontier family, for a deep dive into the art of showing appreciation to donors. In the spirit of Valentine's Day, they discuss the similarities between a good date and good stewardship, and surprisingly, Megan finds herself speaking fondly of SMS fundraising.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
Resources & People Mentioned
Connect With Frontier
We used AI to write these show notes!
Dive into the depths of AI's current landscape and future possibilities with Mike Berg on this enlightening episode of Frontier FM.
In this episode, Megan engages in a compelling discussion with industry veteran Mike Berg, the Chief Technology Officer at System 3. Mike shares his wealth of experience in artificial intelligence, from his tenure at AltaML, Canada's leading peer-to-peer AI company, to his role in developing AI models for diverse applications in everything from feline diagnostics, to HR management.
You'll learn a little bit about why AI may or may not take over the world, which tools you could leverage today, and how to best set up your organization grow into the tools of tomorrow. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
Resources & Mentions
Connect with Mike Berg
Connect With Frontier
Sometimes the best way to innovate is to start with the basics. On this episode, Megan and Frontier ED, Derek Weiss sit down with testing guru and friend of the pod, Nathan Hill from NextAfter to discuss all things testing. Nathan shares his favourite test for charities in their A/B infancy, some surprising findings fresh from the NextAfter lab, and some common errors you should avoid while planning your end of year tests.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Nathan Hill and NextAfter [0:38] * All about NIO [4:33] * The problem with AI [14:07] * Findings from our value proposition study [17:39] * How to start testing [33:33] * Finding great testing resources with Winston [40:45] * Cautionary tales with testing [46:57] * Things you can still do (and shouldn't do) before Year End [52:49] * Nathan and Derek share their greatest fears [59:39] * Free resources and how to get in touch [1:01:23]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Winston Knows * Decoding Generosity * NIO Summit * Carlos Whittaker's NIO talk * Jon Lee's NIO talk
Connect with Nathan Hill * Follow Nathan on LinkedIn * Email Nathan at nathan.hill@nextafter.com * Sign up for Winston's Weekly
Connect With Frontier * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Derek Weiss on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Is it really best practice to follow best practice? On this episode, Megan is joined by Russell Philips of the Canadian Constitution Foundation to discuss their learnings from the recent NIO Summit in Dallas. You'll find out why it's so hard to convince people under 40 to give, get some quick UX/UI wins to optimize your donation pages, and learn why testing trumps best practice.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Russell and the CCF [0:45] * Turning calls into conversions [7:00] * What is the NIO Summit? [8:15] * UX/UI learnings inspired by Tim Kachuriak & Karl Gilis [11:20] * Talking to Gen Zs & things we learned from Jon Lee [17:49] * Radical transparency & the generous side of Youtube & Twitch [32:12] * Quick wins and takeaways you can try before year end [39:03] * Russell's greatest fear and how to get in touch with the CCF [48:05]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Tim Kachuriak's NIO Presentation * Karl Gilis's NIO Presentation * John Lee's NIO Presentation * Desert Bus for Hope * LoadingReadRun (Victoria based Comedy group running desert bus Nov.11!)
Connect with Russell Philip & the CCF * rphillips@theccf.ca * https://www.facebook.com/CanadianConstitutionFoundation * https://twitter.com/CDNConstFound
Connect With Frontier * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Megan returns to the pod for a message to our listeners about where we've been and where we're going!
Just because corporate fundraising feels complicated does not mean it is. It’s also not a money buffet that charities can just show up to for funding. It requires strategy, skill, and a little bit of patience. On this episode, Ben sits down with Heather Nelson of BridgeRaise to discuss the ins and outs of corporate fundraising, why charities seek corporate partnerships, the shadow side of corporate funding, and how to take your first steps as a charity into the space.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Heather Nelson [0:57] * Defining corporate fundraising [6:18] * Should charities seek corporate funds? [13:19] * Understanding the shadow side of corporate giving [27:34] * Taking the first steps toward corporate fundraising [37:35] * Free resources and final questions [45:41]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Ben's Previous Start-Up * Getting Started | BridgeRaise * Raise More Money | BridgeRaise * Open For Business | BridgeRaise * Exploring Power Dynamics in Corporate Fundraising | BridgeRaise
Connect with Heather Nelson * Follow Heather on LinkedIn * Email Heather * BridgeRaise
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Sometimes it takes an outsider's perspective to bring clarity to the needs of an industry you work in every day. That’s why Ben asked his long-time friend, former co-worker, and now SAAS leader Steve Benjamins to weigh in on the state of tech in the charity world. The two also take a deep dive into the unique benefits and challenges of four-day work weeks and remote working environments.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Steve Benjamins and his career journey [0:45] * How Steve built multiple tech products [8:06] * The impact of tech entering the charity world [13:00] * Makers, managers, and building trust in changing work environments [21:27] * The power of in-person connection in a mostly remote world [28:41] * Tactical advice for social media and final thoughts [38:53]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Maker's Schedule, Manager's Schedule * Site Builder Report * MBA-ish
Connect with Steve Benjamins * Follow Steve on Twitter * Visit Steve’s website
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
What are your favorite fundraising trends for 2023? On this episode, Ben and Becca dive into all things trends for the ten months ahead. They discuss person-centered fundraising, using TikTok for donor acquisition, making giving easy, the future of phones in fundraising, and everything in between. You don’t want to miss it!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Catching up with Becca and Ben’s Nonprofit Innovation Circle recap [0:09] * Person-centered fundraising and breaking down the ideal donor [6:12] * Using personalization to build deeper donor connections [14:17] * The future of phones and SMS in fundraising [17:52] * Changing payment methods and the need for a timed opt-out [27:30] * Why charities need TikTok [32:36] * Trust-based philanthropy, an unlikely recession, the potential peak of podcasting, and other lightning-round trends [41:14]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * 2023 Payment Trends Webinar with Fundraise Up * 3 Ways to Supercharge Your Text Message Fundraising for Year-End
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Change is often a bad word among charities. And nothing exemplifies change more than technology. Many charities avoid it for a myriad of reasons, but tech is a valuable piece to cracking the generosity puzzle for decades to come. On this episode, Ben sits down with Yulia from Giveffect to discuss how charities should choose the right technology for their organizations. The two dive into Yulia’s professional journey, the origin and mission of Giveffect, and the resistance to change in the nonprofit sector.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Yulia’s professional journey and what led her to the nonprofit space [0:13] * The story of Giveffect and its mission to streamline the tech side of charity [9:01] * Unpacking resistance to change in the nonprofit sector [18:46] * Where and how to start choosing the right tech for your organization [29:00] * Cool Tools and final thoughts [37:23]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Giveffect * The Smart Nonprofit: Staying Human-Centered in An Automated World (Book) * ChatGPT
Connect with Yulia Zhernovaya * Follow Yulia on LinkedIn * Email Yulia
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Are you ready for the Fundraising Revolution? Nejeed Kassam of Keela is! On this episode, Ben sits down with Nejeed for an engaging discussion focused on pushing the charitable sector forward. From tech innovation to addressing the fear that so many fundraisers hide just under the surface, get ready for a thought-provoking conversation everyone living the nonprofit life needs to hear.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Nejeed’s origin and going from practicing law to starting a tech company [0:54] * NTEN, all about Keela, and where Nejeed believes fundraising is heading [12:22] * Addressing the fear in fundraising and bringing change to the charity world [20:24] * Risk, experimentation, and why charities need an ecosystem [24:23] * Working at Keela and AI in the nonprofit space [27:24]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io!
Connect with Nejeed Kassam * Follow Nejeed on LinkedIn * Email Nejeed
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
A major part of human-centered fundraising is human-centered design. How do you create mass marketing content that feels personal to the reader and accomplishes the goal of inspiring generosity through giving? On this episode, Ben sits down with Frontier OG and Creative Director Nick Tassell to discuss the importance of design, the power of humanity in marketing, and his experience starting at the beginning of Frontier.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Nick Tassell [1:22] * Balancing form and function and why design matters [6:05] * Nick’s experience on Frontier’s ground floor [12:48] * Taking a closer look at Frontier’s team and the benefits of different leadership styles [23:26] * Exploring human-centered design and its application in both print and digital marketing [35:08] * Understanding the importance of the message in your medium [40:56] * Nick’s perspective on the marketing journey of QR codes, the benefits of risk management with new tech, and final thoughts [49:20]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Creative Deviations (Book)
Connect with Nick Tassell * Follow Nick on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
The first Frontier FM of 2023 is here and you don’t want to miss it! On this episode, Ben sits down with Neon One’s Director of Corporate Brand Tim Sarrantonio for a jam-packed discussion about the future of generosity from a technology standpoint. The two explore human-centered fundraising, the three-percent problem in the charitable sector, three trends for small shops in 2023, and making it easy for donors to grow in generosity.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Tim Sarrantonio [0:09] * The gold standard in human-centered fundraising [6:19] * Tackling the three-percent problem and why tech bros won’t save the charitable sector [11:57] * Three trends for small shops in 2023 [24:33] * Understanding the peak-end rule [33:37] * Making it easy to join the generosity journey and Tim’s advice for overwhelmed fundraisers [36:41]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Thinking, Fast and Slow (Book) * The Ethical Rainmaker * Mallory Erickson * Dana Snyder * The Fundraising Effectiveness Project
Connect with Tim Sarrantonio * Follow Tim on LinkedIn * Neon One
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
For the last Frontier FM episode of 2022, Ben and Becca sit down to discuss everything that goes into building a successful donor journey. When and how should you thank your donors? What role do economic seasons play in annual planning? How important is showing impact and accountability to donors? Listen now to get answers from the experts!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Diving into annual planning and how economic seasons impact giving [1:51] * Knowing when and how to thank and engage with your donors [7:42] * Accounting for the overall donor journey [14:31] * Understanding the timeframes and logistics for asking and reporting [20:06] * Cool Tools to help with better task management [33:41]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Notion
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
It’s time to bring some internal innovation to the charity world! On this episode, Ben sits down with the Director of Marketing Growth for Funraise, David Schwab. David dives into why quality tech stacks for charities are a game changer, how and why he works for Funraise, and the power of owning the conversation through email marketing.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * The difference between Seattle and Canadian sports [0:12] * Exploring David’s professional journey [3:37] * How David started working at Funraise [10:17] * The Funraise backstory and the power of platforms [17:26] * Big wins for charities using Funraise [25:09] * Explaining email marketing to the next generation and why marketing is pay to play [28:27]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Funraise * #TeamSeas
Connect with David Schwab * Email David * Follow David on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
The world needs good marketers. Thankfully, Frontier FM has got you covered! On this episode, Ben is joined by Frontier strategist and new co-host Becca Gust to discuss her background, the Enneagram, her first Fall at Frontier, subjectivity in fundraising marketing, and the experimentation culture within Frontier.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Frontier FM’s newest co-host, Becca Gust! [1:22] * Diving deeper into the Enneagram [11:40] * Becca’s first Fall at Frontier and resisting the urge to worship work [14:45] * Identity, perspective, and subjectivity in fundraising marketing [29:34] * The experimentation culture at Frontier and Becca and Ben’s hopes for the future [33:29]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io!
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Follow Becca Gust on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Get ready to learn about all things social media in the world of fundraising marketing as Ben sits down with digital marketing coach and podcaster Dana Snyder of Positive Equation. On this episode, the two discuss the dynamic duo of marketing and branding, using social platforms effectively in fundraising, optimizing your charity’s YouTube channel, and the best use of your social media marketing dollars.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Dana Snyder and her digital marketing journey [0:13] * Breaking out of the “land grab” mentality when it comes to digital and the power of quality branding [5:01] * Using social media platforms effectively in fundraising [12:31] * Optimizing your charity’s YouTube Channel and using Google Analytics [17:46] * Working alongside Meta and how Dana helps organizations with online advertising [22:11] * The first-ever Cool Tools segment! [25:47]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * TubeBuddy * Google Analytics * Loom * Madgicx
Connect with Dana Snyder * Follow Dana on LinkedIn * Positive Equation
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
There are two sides to marketing in the charity world: fundraising and branding. Both are essential, but it’s time to give the branding crew some love! On this episode, Ben sits down with Anchor Marketing President Danielle Gagner to discuss why marketers need communication skills, the importance of branding, the prerequisites for a rebrand, creating intergenerational loyalty, and using data and branding to produce a strong sense of identity in donors.
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Anchor Marketing * Stereotype Directionality and Attractiveness Stereotyping: Is Beauty Good or is Ugly Bad? * Disgust Images And Nonprofit Children’s Causes * Click here for comprehensive branding resources!
Connect with Danielle Gagner * Email Danielle * Follow Danielle on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
There are two sides to marketing in the charity world: fundraising and branding. Both are essential, but it’s time to give the branding crew some love! On this episode, Ben sits down with Anchor Marketing President Danielle Gagner to discuss why marketers need communication skills, the importance of branding, the prerequisites for a rebrand, creating intergenerational loyalty, and using data and branding to produce a strong sense of identity in donors.
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Anchor Marketing * Stereotype Directionality and Attractiveness Stereotyping: Is Beauty Good or is Ugly Bad? * Disgust Images And Nonprofit Children’s Causes * Click here for comprehensive branding resources!
Connect with Danielle Gagner * Email Danielle * Follow Danielle on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Fundraising is an $18 billion industry fighting to be taken seriously. Charities often struggle to become more sophisticated and business-minded without losing their nonprofit side. One way to move the needle forward for the charitable sector is through fundraising education for fundraisers and those that work with them. On this episode, Ben sits down with New School of Fundraising founder Rowena Veylan to talk about accessible fundraising education, the importance of fundraising training for board members, supporting smaller charitable organizations, and establishing indigenous protocols for fundraisers.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Rowena’s fundraising journey and starting the New School of Fundraising [0:13] * The importance of fundraising training for board members [8:03] * Moving the needle for smaller organizations and supporting volunteer-run charities [13:00] * Creating indigenous protocols for fundraisers [23:31] * Final thoughts on fundraising education [34:52]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy * BCIT Fundraising Courses * Blumbergs’ Snapshot of the Canadian Charity Sector 2020
Connect with Rowena Veylan * Email Rowena * Follow Rowena on LinkedIn * The New School of Fundraising
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Fundraising is an $18 billion industry fighting to be taken seriously. Charities often struggle to become more sophisticated and business-minded without losing their nonprofit side. One way to move the needle forward for the charitable sector is through fundraising education for fundraisers and those that work with them. On this episode, Ben sits down with New School of Fundraising founder Rowena Veylan to talk about accessible fundraising education, the importance of fundraising training for board members, supporting smaller charitable organizations, and establishing indigenous protocols for fundraisers.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Rowena’s fundraising journey and starting the New School of Fundraising [0:13] * The importance of fundraising training for board members [8:03] * Moving the needle for smaller organizations and supporting volunteer-run charities [13:00] * Creating indigenous protocols for fundraisers [23:31] * Final thoughts on fundraising education [34:52]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy * BCIT Fundraising Courses * Blumbergs’ Snapshot of the Canadian Charity Sector 2020
Connect with Rowena Veylan * Email Rowena * Follow Rowena on LinkedIn * The New School of Fundraising
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
What is the role of trust in the fundraising process? What does sustainable accountability look like in the charitable sector? On this episode, Ben sits down with Africa Community Technical Service (ACTS) for Water CEO Jeff Golby to discuss trust-based philanthropy, unhealthy power dynamics in major giving, and better ways to build trust between charities and the donors that fund them.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Jeff Golby and life lessons for Enneagram Threes [0:25] * Overhead, the expense of charity, and the unspoken parts of fundraising [6:46] * Understanding trust-based philanthropy [10:21] * Breaking down unhealthy power structures in philanthropy [15:02] * Creating a world without grant writing and balancing the direct and indirect costs of running a charity [17:51] * Building trust between charities and donors [23:20] * The messiness of fundraising and the power of continually showing up [27:13]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * ACTS for Water * practices — Trust-Based Philanthropy * Give Away Power, Then Money (Article)
Connect with Jeff Golby * Email Jeff * Follow Jeff on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
What is the role of trust in the fundraising process? What does sustainable accountability look like in the charitable sector? On this episode, Ben sits down with Africa Community Technical Service (ACTS) for Water CEO Jeff Golby to discuss trust-based philanthropy, unhealthy power dynamics in major giving, and better ways to build trust between charities and the donors that fund them.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Jeff Golby and life lessons for Enneagram Threes [0:25] * Overhead, the expense of charity, and the unspoken parts of fundraising [6:46] * Understanding trust-based philanthropy [10:21] * Breaking down unhealthy power structures in philanthropy [15:02] * Creating a world without grant writing and balancing the direct and indirect costs of running a charity [17:51] * Building trust between charities and donors [23:20] * The messiness of fundraising and the power of continually showing up [27:13]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * ACTS for Water * practices — Trust-Based Philanthropy * Give Away Power, Then Money (Article)
Connect with Jeff Golby * Email Jeff * Follow Jeff on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
As summer comes to a close, a potential recession looms over the market and the media. Whether or not an economic downturn is waiting around the corner, charities need to be prepared to weather the storm. On this episode, Ben talks through the thoughts, methodologies, and tactics he recommends to help your organization stay successful in the face of adversity.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * What to do when your organizational resilience is tested [1:50] * Why charities should stay the course during economic challenges [5:47] * Leaning into innovation and letting your donors surprise you [7:04] * The power of continued communication [10:36] * How charities create hope [12:08]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * How to Fundraise During a Recession (Frontier Resource) * 7 Fundraising Tips for Surviving the Apocalypse of 2022 (Agitator) * Google Search Data and Recessions (Instagram) * Cardi B on Twitter * Google Trends results for "recession" * Age of Inflation in US Will Last Much Longer Than Pandemic Spike * Victoria Real Estate Board
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
As summer comes to a close, a potential recession looms over the market and the media. Whether or not an economic downturn is waiting around the corner, charities need to be prepared to weather the storm. On this episode, Ben talks through the thoughts, methodologies, and tactics he recommends to help your organization stay successful in the face of adversity.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * What to do when your organizational resilience is tested [1:50] * Why charities should stay the course during economic challenges [5:47] * Leaning into innovation and letting your donors surprise you [7:04] * The power of continued communication [10:36] * How charities create hope [12:08]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * How to Fundraise During a Recession (Frontier Resource) * 7 Fundraising Tips for Surviving the Apocalypse of 2022 (Agitator) * Google Search Data and Recessions (Instagram) * Cardi B on Twitter * Google Trends results for "recession" * Age of Inflation in US Will Last Much Longer Than Pandemic Spike * Victoria Real Estate Board
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
When discussing digital fundraising trends, there’s no better person to do it with than Brady Josephson. Formerly of NextAfter, Brady is now the interim Marketing & Growth Lead at charity: water and provides a wealth of experience from both sides of the charity world. On this episode, Ben and Brady discuss the future of data, technology’s impact on charity culture, and playing Moneyball in the nonprofit sector.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Brady Josephson, his love of sports, and his NextAfter journey [0:50] * Diving into Brady’s next big chapter and the need for innovation in the fundraising world [10:57] * The effect of tech start-ups on charity culture [15:36] * Donors, data, identity, and the problem of tech debt [18:21] * Moneyball in the charity world and developing intentional fundraising strategies [24:50] * Scaling the transparent charity model [31:56] * How to stay focused and avoid mission drift as a charity [34:02]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Frontier has joined forces with NextAfter! * Should you hire Frontier to grow your fundraising? * What Can Philanthropy Learn from Moneyball?
Connect with Brady Josephson * Send Brady an email * Follow Brady on LinkedIn * Follow Brady on Twitter * Check out Brady’s podcast
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
On this episode, Ben sits down with Frontier’s own Marketing Director Sam Kirk to discuss his first year at the company. Get ready for a quick moving conversation filled with Gen X thoughts, the best parts about working at Frontier, areas of improvement, and plenty of mid-nineties nostalgia.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Sam Kirk and his non-profit journey [1:27] * Understanding the impact of a potential recession on giving and Gen X thoughts from Frontier’s elder Gen X-er [3:19] * The best parts of Frontier and developing balanced relationships with clients [9:10] * Frontier’s areas for growth and improvement [13:27] * Toonies, Windows 95, and the magic of 1996 [20:26] * Sam’s thoughts for the next generation [26:13]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * 10 Gen X Mind Hacks (Twitter)
Connect with Sam Kirk * Follow Sam on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Data nerds rejoice! On this episode of Frontier FM, Ben sits down with Product Manager and Data Mad Scientist at Wisely, Kirk Schmidt to discuss what it means for charities to be data-driven in a meaningful way. The two dive into improving standards in the charitable sector, the difference between demographics and identity, and the value of taking a holistic approach to data.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Kirk Schmidt and how a degree in mathematics helps in the fundraising world [0:22] * The power of reinvestment, the potential of maintaining a business mindset in the charitable sector, and the vice of being shortsighted [7:17] * What does it mean to be data-driven? [12:42] * Thinking about RFM as a segmentation tool and how to use data effectively [16:01] * Why average isn’t always accurate and the value of holistic data [24:41] * Unpacking identity versus demographics when surveying donors and the impact of personalization [29:27] * Why good stewardship is good defense [37:29] * What is A/B testing? [40:07]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * 5 Things You Should Know When Doing A/B Testing (Article) * What if... (Video)
Connect with Kirk Schmidt * Follow Kirk on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
If there’s one thing every fundraiser wants, it’s more money. That’s exactly what the team at Wisely wants to help you accomplish! On this episode, Ben sits down with Co-Founder and COO of Wisely, Wes Moon, to discuss how his company is accelerating the donor giving cycle, bringing AI to the charitable world, and finding the missing middle in your donor database.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Diving into Wes Moon’s background as a lifer in the fundraising world [1:43] * The tech ecosystem and bringing AI to the charitable sector [7:08] * Accelerating the giving cycle and the value of tailored mid-level giving programs [10:02] * What is the missing middle? [18:26] * Integrating mass marketing and mid-level donors [22:03] * The best fundraising advice Wes has ever received [26:01] * Encouragement for new fundraisers [27:36]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Wisely’s Mid-Level Giving courses
Connect with Wes Moon * Follow Wes on LinkedIn * Check out Wisely
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Why do people give? In a data-driven world, it’s easy to forget that behind every gift is a WHY. On this episode, Vice President of Philanthropy for the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ) Eric Frans discusses the psychology of philanthropy, the impact of a charity’s “inside language”, and how generosity facilitates a journey of healing.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Eric Frans and his work at the IFCJ [0:47] * The psychology of fundraising [3:50] * Exploring the transformation of the fundraising industry over the last two decades [5:20] * Changing our “inside” language for the better [11:00] * The most important gift charities need to chase [13:40] * How generosity can heal the soul [16:59] * Donor identity, the physics of giving, and discovering the “why” [23:11] * Eric’s tips for improving mid-level giving [35:39] * Professionalism in fundraising [43:14]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * This Is The Most Fun Way To Make Your Life Awesome * Institute for Sustainable Philanthropy
Connect with Eric Frans * Follow Eric on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Should Charities Say Yes to SMS?, Ep #48 Have you ever paid a bill via text message? What about using SMS to send donations to your favorite charity? On this episode, Ben and Megan explore the pros and cons of using SMS in fundraising, the benefits of micro-influencers, and how charities can make a real impact for the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Catching up on dodgeball, Sabbath, and return envelopes with Megan McCaffery [0:34] * More fun with QR codes [7:36] * Is SMS a marketing miss? [13:25] * Charities and cybersecurity [20:24] * What is a micro-influencer? [27:56] * LinkedIn lessons and developing an ecosystem [33:54] * Going beyond performative virtue signaling [37:48]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * NFL Commercial: "Football is GAY."
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
It’s one thing to acquire a donor, it’s another thing entirely to keep them. On this episode, Ben sits down with stewardship and donor engagement expert Jocelyn Kwok to discuss the art of cultivating long-term relationships with donors. Join them for an engaging look into what effective stewardship looks like, the qualities of a good stewardship coordinator, and how to connect with donors on a deeper level.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Defining small charities and why Jocelyn loves working with them [1:44] * Diving into Jocelyn’s Enneagram number [4:10] * Exploring stewardship and getting to know your donors [7:45] * What makes a good stewardship coordinator? [15:09] * Creativity and logistics in stewardship [20:55] * Helpful resources for stewardship [25:37] * Ben’s perspective on quality stewardship and using data effectively [31:42] * Planning stewardship into a fundraising strategy [37:24] * How community-centered fundraising impacts stewardship [41:30] * Common challenges in stewardship and the role of a charity board member [44:19]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Check out Cameo!
Connect with Jocelyn Kwok * Email Jocelyn * Follow Jocelyn on LinkedIn * Visit Jocelyn’s website
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
It’s time to celebrate the two-year anniversary of Frontier FM! On this episode, Matt and Ben look back on two years of podcasting and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. They also dive into the need for a corporate Sabbath, current marketing trends, and the power of good design in fundraising.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Client visits, current trends, and saturation in rented lists [2:36] * Reflections on two years of Frontier FM [13:01] * Frontier’s match test outcome and the power of good design [18:09] * What has and hasn’t changed in email over the last decade [25:25] * Why taking a corporate Sabbath could be the culture move you need [27:40] * Junk mail, Gen X, and embracing the lost generation [36:04] * Future guests and final thoughts [47:50]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * QR Codes in Fundraising and Marketing Are Relevant!, Ep #24 * Getting the Gist of Rental Lists with Dan Sonners, Ep #43 * 5 Best Practices for Nonprofit Fundraising with QR Codes * Gen X Twitter post
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Live from Las Vegas, it’s Frontier FM! Matt and Ben sit down for their first-ever in-person episode to discuss the findings of the M+R 2022 Benchmarks, their implications, and ways that you can use the data to grow your organization.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * An update from AFP ICON 2022 and conference highlights [0:10] * Looking at the data in M+R’s 2021 Benchmarks [4:52] * Frontier Marketing Co. by the numbers in 2021 [16:27] * Increasing your revenue per mille [18:17] * Is major giving heading online? [21:58] * Junk mail and final thoughts [25:31]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * M+R 2022 Benchmarks * Benchmark Yourself! * M+R 2022 Benchmarks Participant List
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io
On this episode Frontier FM, it’s the greatest crossover event since the Jetsons met the Flintstones! Dan Sonners of the Dynamic Nonprofits w/ Dan Podcast is on the show to discuss all things list rentals and direct mail marketing. The two dive into how list brokerage works, the rise of email marketing, reaching Gen X, and great questions from the Frontier team.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Dan Sonners and his marketing journey [0:45] * Dan and Ben’s perspective on the rise of email marketing in the fundraising world [5:30] * What in the world are list rentals and multi-buyers? [18:37] * Dan’s thoughts on the Gen X Factor, their value as donors, and marketing best practice to reach them [28:28] * Dan’s biggest piece of advice for fundraisers [37:32] * Managing the expectations of small charities around acquisition [39:44] * The rental list recommendation process and the value of a list broker [45:32] * Ethics in rental lists and fundraising marketing [51:43]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Frontier FM YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * DNP Groundbreakers: Justin McCord, VP SMarketing @ RKD Group & Host of Groupthinkers Podcast Dynamic Nonprofits w/ Dan * Conrad Direct
Connect with Dan Sonners * Follow Dan on LinkedIn * Check out Dan’s podcast!
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Follow Megan McCaffery on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Do you know what to post on LinkedIn? Maybe you're on the fence about using the platform altogether? On this episode, Matt and Ben will show you why LinkedIn is one of the best digital spaces for charities and business professionals alike. They’ll also share tips on how to make YOUR LinkedIn profile a must-follow!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * 42 episodes, Jackie Robinson, baseball caps, and baseball predictions [0:33] * Frontier FM catch-up; Matt and Ben are headed to Vegas! [4:45] * Matt and Ben settle their LinkedIn bet while sharing the LinkedIn tips you need to get ahead [8:49] * The history of LinkedIn and user statistics [16:00] * Finding your authentic professional voice on LinkedIn [19:00] * Are you a part of the LinkedIn one-percent? [21:47] * More can’t-miss LinkedIn tips [24:17] * Using automation to optimize your LinkedIn ROI [31:16] * Final thoughts and junk mail [34:03]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Marketing Misses with Megan McCaffery, Ep #41 * Ben on a recent episode of Dynamic Nonprofits w/ Dan * AFP Icon * Ben’s best LinkedIn post * Income and Poverty in the United States: 2019 * Mind-Blowing LinkedIn Statistics and Facts (2022) * LinkedIn Company Profile and Statistics * LinkedIn About Us * How to Post on LinkedIn: 10 Tips from Analyzing 3000 Posts * LinkedIn for Nonprofits: 8 Strategies for Success * LinkedIn One-Percent Club * Shield App * Dripify: LinkedIn Automation * How to Cut Expenses You Spend on Sales Nav / Recruiter with Dripify * Ten Must-Follow Nonprofits on LinkedIn * Check out LinkedIn’s own nonprofit space
MUST-Follow Nonprofit LinkedIn Profiles * Anthony Jones on LinkedIn * Mike Duerksen on LinkedIn * Dan Sonners on LinkedIn * Dana Snyder on LinkedIn * Mitch Stein on LinkedIn * Kevin “The Kid” Fitzpatrick on LinkedIn * Meena Das on LinkedIn * Kirk Schmidt on LinkedIn * Mark Jordan on LinkedIn * Kevin Schulman on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * Follow Benjamin Johnson on LinkedIn * Follow Matt Hussey on LinkedIn * Website: https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Why can’t the charity world talk about its marketing misses and fundraising fails? It’s time to rip the bandaid off! On this episode, Ben is joined by Frontier Senior Marketing Strategist Megan McCaffery to discuss all things “whoops!” in the realm of non-profit communications and strategies. They’ll dive into common mistakes, the value of adaptability, and hard conversations charities can’t afford to shy away from.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Twitch, competitive dodgeball, and getting to know Megan McCaffery [1:01] * Agile project management and neurodivergent friendly copy [5:41] * Pivoting your marketing strategy during an unexpected crisis [10:39] * The evolution of email marketing at Frontier and challenging antiquated best practices [14:42] * Fundraising fails, marketing misses, and hard conversations charities can’t afford to shy away from [24:05] * Ben and Megan share personal fails [34:03] * How ownership creates empathy and the upside of failure [40:02] * What’s next for LinkedIn and final thoughts [45:40]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Listen to Ben’s dodgeball commentary * Turn Your Words into Money (Book) * Caroline Fothergill’s donor journey and first LinkedIn post * Email Caroline Fothergill * Uncharitable: How Restraints on Nonprofits Undermine Their Potential (Book) * The Comprehensive Guide to Maximize Your Online Fundraising (PDF, Page 17) * How Ben feels about losing vs. winning * Episode 21: Error Will Robinson
Connect with Megan McCaffery * Follow Megan on LinkedIn * Send Megan an email * Check out Megan’s Vanlife Instagram
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
The pandemic officially changed the way employees and employers alike viewed remote work. It forced us to reconsider what was possible in workplace technology and flexibility. Working digitally went from a logistical bandaid to an essential reality overnight! On this episode, Matt and Ben will examine all the ways remote and hybrid work have changed since the pandemic. They'll also share Frontier’s remote work toolkit and discuss how to create a healthy and engaging remote work culture at your organization.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Acknowledging Ukraine and opening thoughts [0:00] * Using cash in Mexico and recapping our tiptap episode [4:06] * Matt and Ben’s highlights and challenges of remote life [8:34] * The tools and workflow of remote and hybrid work [14:57] * Home office essentials to improve the quality of your work and your workday [18:02] * Navigating different time zones in remote working and hybrid environments [21:27] * Frontier’s remote work toolkit [24:00] * Creating a healthy and engaging remote work culture [33:20]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Frontier Remote Work Toolkit (PDF)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Technology should make life both better and easier for the one using it. That’s not always the case for tech solutions in the nonprofit sector. Fortunately, tiptap is bringing some much-needed innovation to the charity world! On this episode, Ben sits down with Mark Jordan of tiptap to discuss how their touchless payment system is an all-around win for charities and donors, digital innovations for fundraising marketers, and the importance of focus for charitable organizations looking to maximize their impact.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Wordle and Gen Z conspiracy theories [0:14] * Getting to know Mark Jordan and the logistics of tiptap [2:14] * Nonprofits and technology [8:25] * Why Ttptap is a proven risk-free payment option for charities and a huge win for donors [12:05] * Pushing up against the limits of marketing creativity [17:35] * How tiptap uses data to help charities develop effective strategies [22:56] * The most common mistakes and solutions for mid-sized charities [26:45]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Wordle - The New York Times * Birds Aren't Real * Tech4SickKids * Canadian Centre for Nonprofit Digital Resilience (Article) * A Better Tent City belongs in Waterloo Region (Article)
Connect with Mark Jordan * Email Mark! * Follow Mark on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Does your charity allow existing donors to be more generous? On this episode, Matt and Ben discuss the art of using donor communication to change the donor relationship and take giving to the next level. They also dive into human-centered language, avoiding “the ick” as fundraisers, and how to invite donors to walk alongside a cause. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Seasonal, meteorological, and geographic marketing for fundraising [1:42] * Staying connected to the core principles of your organization [8:46] * Avoiding “the ick” in fundraising communications [12:11] * Inviting donors to walk alongside a cause [17:01] * Using variable copy to take donors to the next level [22:54] * Why the volume of communication matters and breaking fixed patterns with donors [26:39] * A sneak peek of future Frontier FM content [31:50] * Matt reads some junk mail! [34:13]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * What is 'the ick'? A psychological scientist explains this TikTok trend (Article) * PayPal Giving Fund
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Is fundraising for libraries different from other nonprofit and charitable organizations? To answer that question, Ben sits down with the Executive Director of the Vancouver Public Library Foundation, Jenny Marsh. The two discuss all things library fundraising, the interplay of annual and major giving, as well as the best strategies for reaching Gen-X donors. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Jenny Marsh [4:00] * Diving into the world of library fundraising [7:50] * The value of libraries within a community [15:47] * Understanding the governing structure of VPLF [20:01] * The interplay between annual and major giving [25:41] * The logistics of major giving for libraries [34:15] * Discovery calls and Gen-X fundraising [39:08]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Quote by Caitlin Moran: “A library in the middle of a community is a cro...” * https://wikimediafoundation.org/support/
Connect with Jenny Marsh * Follow Jenny on LinkedIn * VPL Foundation
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
It’s a wrap! Now that 2021 is officially in the history books, Matt and Ben take a look back at some of the year’s most prominent fundraising trends to help you prepare for 2022. They’ll review everything from payment methods to person-centered content. New to the podcast? This is the perfect episode to get caught up!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Exploring payment method trends for 2021 [4:16] * Is Feudalism the new normal? [11:50] * Navigating a loneliness pandemic [17:45] * Social media trends of 2021…for better or worse [19:48] * The power of video in fundraising [24:55] * Community-centered fundraising and person-centered content [28:35] * Using regionalized communication in fundraising [35:45] * QR Codes, marketing automation, and the use of AI in fundraising [38:30] * Addressing inflation as a charity [45:24] * Mailbag and final thoughts [48:22]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * The M+R Guide to Effective and Ethical Direct Response Creative (PDF) * Twelve Digital Marketing Trends For 2022 And How To Take Advantage Of Them (Article) * Marketers, keep an eye on these digital marketing trends in 2022 (Article) * 14 things I would tell my younger self if I could go back in time (Article) * Polarity Management (PDF)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
This is the last Frontier FM of 2021 so buckle up for a great one! Long-time listeners of the show will be familiar with the organization Fundraise Up. They are an incredible company focused on redefining the online giving experience with a simple philosophy: What makes life easier for the donor is ultimately going to make life easier for the charity. On this episode, Ben sits down with Nic Miller and Salvatore Salpietro of Fundraise Up to discuss online fundraising, how “tech stacks” impact nonprofits, and the challenges facing modern charities.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Introductions and Insta-scams [0:50] * The history of Fundraise Up [2:17] * The power of working together under one roof [7:13] * Defining “tech stack” and how it’s impacting the charity world [10:10] * The challenges facing today’s charities [16:44] * Why Ben is such a Fundraise Up fanboy [24:04] * Common hurdles to expanding your “tech stack” [29:13]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Nobody is planting a tree if you share a pet picture on Instagram. Here's why (Article) * What is a Tech Stack? Choosing What Goes In Yours (Article) * The Standing Desk (Fundraise Up Blog)
Connect with Fundraise Up * Fundraise Up (Website) * Subscribe to the Fundraise Up Youtube Channel * Follow Nic on LinkedIn * Follow Sal on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Ben welcomes his friend and client Andre Lesur to Frontier FM for a can’t miss conversation! Andre is a long-time listener of the show and the executive director of Global Disciples Canada. The two discuss faith, leadership, and the power of putting people at the center of your story. They also dive into the Enneagram, taking steps for personal growth, and the role passion plays in storytelling.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Sports, passion, and life lessons [0:48] * Personality tests, personal growth, and the essential self [5:02] * Andre’s journey of self-discovery [7:20] * Why passion is a more powerful communication tool than facts [12:37] * How to be an effective “people helper” [13:18] * More of Andre’s story and the work he’s doing with Global Disciples [17:00] * Putting people at the center of the story [22:13] * Being a partner and guide for clients and putting your best foot forward [27:28] * Leadership tips, tricks, and challenges [30:42] * Working in the charity world unburdened [34:11]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Follow the Simply Missional Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
Connect with Andre Lesur * Global Disciples Canada * Follow Andre on LinkedIn
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Making a great first impression is important for any brand or organization, charities included! And in the digital age, there is no better way to do that than with an email welcome series. On this episode, Matt takes the helm to discuss welcome series best practices, pitfalls, and how to turn a donor’s first few emails into a life-long relationship. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Opting out of the Meta-verse [4:34] * Engaging donors through surveys [6:43] * What is a welcome series? [9:48] * Using a welcome series to develop a long-term donor relationship [12:42] * How to make your welcome series stand-out [22:06]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * A Complete Guide to Email Acquisition for Nonprofits (Article) * New Donor Welcome Series Guide * 5 Tips for Developing a Successful Email Welcome Series (Article)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Let’s face it: most people are terrible at negotiating. They let the fear of conflict keep them from asking for exactly what they need. It’s time to stop settling and start negotiating! On this episode, Ben sits down with Mark Raffan of Negotiations Ninja to discuss the importance of negotiating personally and professionally in the charity world as well as tips for anyone to become a master negotiator.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Mark Raffan [1:59] * Tips for negotiating a personal salary [6:31] * The pitfalls of negotiating with charities [16:06] * Equipping your team to negotiate effectively [17:51] * Why email is a negotiator's Achilles heel [22:49] * Why being a digital thought leader is critical for charity heads [27:02]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance
Connect with Mark Raffan * Follow Mark on LinkedIn * Negotiations Ninja * Content Callout
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Facebook is making headlines again for all the wrong reasons and Matt and Ben are here to talk about it. On this episode, the guys dive into why Facebook isn’t the digital fundraising home it seems to be, how to cultivate generosity during the pandemic, and why pre-selected donation amounts can hinder online giving.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Pop culture check-in (because who ISN’T watching Ted Lasso?) [2:56] * What’s ahead for Frontier FM and recapping Joshua Harris [5:13] * Cultivating generosity during the pandemic [9:03] * Why asking for specific donation amounts may be counterproductive [12:43] * Why Facebook shouldn’t be a fundraiser’s primary digital home [15:37]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Nonprofit Innovation & Optimization Summit (NIO) * Does Online Advertising Deliver the Target Audience (Article) * How Effective Is Third-Party Consumer Profiling and Audience Delivery?: Evidence from Field Studies (Article) * Report: Location Targeting Ecosystem Suffers from Inaccuracy (Article) * 64% Of Tracking Cookies Are Blocked, Deleted By Web Browsers (Article)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Deconstruction is an altogether popular and controversial buzzword found in church spaces lately. Even though many find the process helpful on a personal level, it can be scary to go through when you still work for organizations that make it feel as though believing the same thing spiritually is a loose requirement. On this episode, Ben interviews former pastor Joshua Harris about his deconstruction journey, the art of questioning faith while working with faith-based organizations, and how to clarify your message.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Joshua Harris’ journey from pastor to marketer [2:45] * Reflecting on the evangelical cultural dominance of the 1990’s [6:25] * Deconstructing faith while remaining in faith spaces [10:15] * Going beyond the commonality of faith in fundraising [15:36] * Examining the generational technology divide [20:37] * The importance of clarity in messaging [25:56]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Clear & Loud * Joshua Harris Coaching
Connect with Joshua Harris * Follow Joshua Harris on Instagram * Follow Joshua Harris on Twitter * Like Joshua Harris on Facebook
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Nicole Mucci of Union Gospel Mission joins Ben to discuss how she helped pioneer a brand update to adopt person-centered and trauma-informed language at her organization. They take a deep dive into the impact of language, the power of personal stories, and the growing shift from donor-centered to community-centered fundraising.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Nicole Mucci [1:00] * How Nicole came to work at Union Gospel Mission [4:28] * The power behind a brand [6:59] * Recognizing the need for change [8:46] * What it means to be person-centered and trauma-informed as a brand [10:06] * Shifting from donor-centered to community-centered fundraising [12:23] * Changing brand guidelines from a staff perspective [18:03] * Writing a person-centered redemptive arc [21:32] * Executing a change in brand guidelines [26:14] * Why language matters [32:01]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * This Is The Most Fun Way To Make Your Life Awesome (Article) * The Shape of a Good Story (Article) * On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction (Book) * Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action (Book)
Connect with Nicole Mucci * Follow Nicole on LinkedIn * Union Gospel Mission
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
As leaves begin to change and the weather begins to cool, Matt and Ben want to help listeners get ready for the Fall fundraising season. On this episode, the guys take some time to catch up while also discussing the best language to frame fundraising appeals, why donors give, and why they don’t. Start the season off right with another great episode of Frontier FM!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Catch-up time: sports, politics, and everything in between [0:18] * Using surveys to re-engage a disconnected audience [12:27] * Modifying appeals to match current events [14:45] * Framing appeals to clearly communicate the message [17:15] * Why donors give (and why they don’t) [21:22] * Creating a frictionless donation form [23:33] * Should accreditations be a permanent fixture in your footer? [27:13]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Reminding vs. Informing (Article)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Do charities need legacy giving strategies? Spoiler alert: YES! On this episode of Frontier FM, Ben is joined by Julia Magnuson-Ford to discuss some of the best practices for effective legacy giving cultivation and the conversations fundraisers can’t afford to avoid.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Getting to know Julia Magnuson-Ford [1:04] * What it means to outsource legacy giving [4:42] * Uncomplicating legacy giving [6:39] * Developing a legacy giving strategy [13:32] * Keeping a donor centric attitude towards legacy giving [18:37] * Teaching generosity and staying connected as an organization [25:01]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io!
Connect with Julia Magnuson-Ford * Follow Julia on LinkedIn * PGgrowth.com
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Fundraising content should be raising money for the charity. If not, then it’s just communication. Newsletters should be no exception! On this episode of Frontier FM, Matt and Ben dive into all things donor newsletter as they discuss effective newsletter content, working newsletters into an overall fundraising strategy, and who should receive newsletters in the first place.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Matt and Ben’s thoughts on the previous episode with Tim Kachuriak of NextAfter [0:32] * Matt’s fall update [2:35] * The exciting things ahead for Frontier FM! [6:59] * 2020 Frontier newsletter statistics [9:37] * What effective donor newsletter content looks like [11:45] * How newsletters fit into an overall fundraising strategy [16:05] * Who should and should not receive a newsletter [18:49] * Donor newsletter best practices [22:59]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * A Million Dollar Match: How Frontier built UGM's annual match campaign (Case Study) * Who to Mail Your Newsletter To (Article) * Yes, Your Non-Profit Newsletter Can Help You Raise Money. Here's How. (Article) * 10 Steps to Create a Money-Raising, Donor-Delighting Print Newsletter (Book) * Follow The Domain Formula For Donor Newsletters (Article) * Donor-Centered Fundraising (Book) * Is Your Newsletter Putting Your Donors to Sleep? (Article) * 10 tips for great newsletter interviews (Article)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
The O.G. digital fundraiser, Tim Kachuriak, joins Ben for a multi-faceted conversation on all things digital marketing. The two discuss how Tim built his company NextAfter from the ground up, the fallout from Apple’s security update, and what’s next for marketers exploring the digital frontier. This is a can’t miss episode filled with sage wisdom and insight from a pioneer of fundraising!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * The NextAfter journey [1:06] * What does having a “digital first” agency mean? [8:39] * Managing relationships between clients and other agencies [10:29] * How Tim is still exploring the digital frontier 20 years later [13:06] * The role behavioral science plays in digital marketing [16:32] * How legacy giving impacts digital marketing [18:31] * The iOS security update fallout for marketers [20:55] * The cost and logistics of donor acquisition [23:58] * Unleashing the most generous generation in the history of the world [29:48]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Nonprofit Innovation & Optimization Summit * Neuro Web Design: What Makes Them Click? (Book)
Connect with Tim Kachuriak * Connect with Tim on LinkedIn * Follow Tim on Twitter * Follow NextAfter on Twitter * Visit the NextAfter website
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
What are QR Codes? How do they work? Can they help increase the effectiveness of a fundraising campaign? These are the questions that charities and marketers alike should be asking! Join Matt and Ben on this episode of Frontier FM as they explore the answers and share their thoughts on how QR Codes could impact the future of fundraising.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Fundraising strategies amidst Canadian wildfires [1:44] * Why data analysis is over-hyped in the nonprofit world [6:14] * Fun life and podcast announcements from Matt and Ben [8:16] * The origin of QR Codes [14:04] * Applications for QR Codes in fundraising [17:55] * Ways to make QR Codes engaging for readers [21:00] * Why Matt and Ben are proponents of QR Codes [26:28] * Matt’s summer campaign update [29:15]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Tim Kachuriak and NextAfter * CBC News Feature on QR Codes * In 2020, QR Codes finally became cool Modern Retail: In 2020, QR Codes finally (Article) * Greta Thunberg QR Code Cross Stitch (Reddit) * Lego-loving couple creates working Covid QR code model for brick show sign-in (Article) * QR codes | Examples of their creative use and design (Article)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Community faith-based fundraising is about more than a culture of praise and prayer. While those things are good, much of the success faith-based organizations find in this area can be attributed to learned technical skills. Specifically, language and communication skills. Frontier has spent the last 11 years helping clients speak the language of effective faith-based fundraising. Matt and Ben want to use that experience to help you take your organization to the next level on this episode of Frontier FM.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Canadian faith-based fundraising statistics [1:37] * Finding the balance between authenticity and mass appeal as a faith-based organization [7:26] * How inclusivity plays a role in faith-based fundraising [9:59] * Learning to speak the language of effective faith-based fundraising [14:10] * Giving from a spiritual perspective [17:10] * How value alignment strengthens fundraising [20:25]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * WayBase * Pew Research Center * The Spirituality Of Giving: From A Christian Perspective by Melodie Gabriel (Article) * A Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri J.M. Nouwen (Book) * Principles for the “Spirituality of Fundraising” (Excerpt) * Lecture from Henri J.M. Nouwen
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Matt and Ben are vaxxed up and ready for the summer of 2021! Are you? On this episode of Frontier FM, the guys keep it short and sweet while talking about several things from old Netflix shows to how COVID has changed the international fundraising community. They also discuss how the imminent “Hot Donor Summer” might affect fundraising efforts in the future. It’s a quick, fun episode that you don’t want to miss!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Ben’s fundraising “nerd moment” with an unreleased copywriting tool [0:50] * A new podcast all about diversity and inclusion in fundraising [3:50] * Getting ready for “Hot Donor Summer” [4:49] * How COVID has changed the international fundraising community [6:10] * The “new normal” for fundraisers and families [7:40] * Fundraising mindsets and messaging in a post-pandemic world [10:36]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * The Copy Optimizer - A fundraising copywriting tool Ben has been using that’s currently in development * Jeff Golby - CEO of Acts for Water - https://acts.ca
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
To err is to be human. Have you ever made a mistake that felt like a grave error? How as a team do you manage that failure? Is there a positive in the mess? Matt and Ben tell stories of failures and errors they have experienced and how they were able to handle them.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Gearing up for a great Sabbath Week at Frontier [1:23] * An important quality for great clients to have [9:24] They accept our rest. How clients respond to rest is important. * The time Ben accidentally killed someone (not literally) [10:18] * The time Matt accidentally gave someone a false diagnosis [12:42] * More of Ben’s best digital and print marketing mess ups [15:35] * Turning mistakes into opportunities [19:16] * The two things every marketing agency needs to do to mend mistakes with clients [21:55]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * The 7 Types of Rest that Every Person Needs (Article) * How Great Clients Can Change Your Life (Article
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
The microphone gets turned onto Ben this episode when Darian Kovacs from Jelly Marketing and Marketing News Canada interviews Ben about Frontier and his history with making charities successful.
Is volunteering a form of giving? Matt and Ben dedicate this episode to all the volunteers out there, and how charities can make an exciting next step with their volunteers to transform into donors.
Ben is joined by Mark Petersen from Stronger Philanthropy. With some reminiscing, they also delve into the Enneagram, the work world, and major donors.
Need some new ideas to make 2021 the best fundraising year yet? Matt and Ben delve into a few of the systems that Frontier uses to increase donor engagement and acquire new donors for their clients. They also answer listener questions from the mail bag. Buckle up for another great episode of Frontier FM!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * St. Patrick’s Day COVID pulse check [2:24] * Getting ready for Easter [6:20] * Donor engagement is at an all-time high [9:10] * Navigating economic inflation [11:53] * Why Broadcast Voice Messaging is a game changer [17:24] * A great way to find new donors [24:24] * How charities can maintain the momentum of 2020 [29:59] * Promoting anti-racism and equality through fundraising [32:10]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Broadcast Voice Message (Stratcom website) * Care2: The World's Largest Social Network for Good
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Matt and Ben are going back to school on this episode of Frontier FM! The two discuss their own university experiences, the challenges higher education organizations face when trying to fundraise, and what the ideal donor program looks like for a university.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Finding the pandemic’s silver linings [0:40] * Baseball cards, cryptocurrency, and legacy giving [8:41] * The difference between fundraising for charities versus civic organizations [17:57] * Matt and Ben share their university experiences [20:07] * The alumni mindset universities need to overcome to fundraise effectively [24:50] * The ideal university annual giving program [26:25] * How to cultivate lifetime donor value as a civic organization [28:36] * Matt's best university story [32:25]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Higher Education Fundraising in 2021 (Article) * SOFII · University of Sheffield, direct mail – the longer the better? Two page vs. four page letters (Article) * 3 Marketing Strategies University Fundraisers Need to Know (Article)
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Matt and Ben discuss current online trends that have led to effective change in our society. Does this impact fundraising for charities and online giving?
2020 is finally over! And while it was certainly a year of surprises for the world, not all of them were bad. Specifically for the charity world. On this episode, Matt and Ben reflect on the surprising outcome of last year, the possibilities of 2021, and the emerging trends that could shape the year to come. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Matt’s latest read and why children’s books are probably a racket [5:58] * The best bet Matt and Ben have ever lost [10:32] * Examining possible trends for 2021 [13:26] * Exploring the income gap and its imminent effects on the charity world [16:04] * Broke millennials and monthly subscriptions [22:49] * The power of recurring monthly giving [32:39] * Video, Cameo, and investing in digital experiences [34:38]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey (Book) * Visual Capitalist
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Have charities been affected by the 2020 phenomena? Ben and Matt sit down to predict the total end-of-year amounts for charities across Canada and look at what this year has taught them for fundraising in the future.
How does a charity maximize its end of the year giving potential? Matt and Ben take a deep dive into year-end fundraising strategies, the idea behind “Giving Tuesday”, and what year-end campaigns look like for Frontier in 2020. It’s time to get as enthusiastic as Matt’s Enneagram type about wrapping up the year right!
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * What’s up with the Toronto Raptors? [1:17] * Recapping the last episode and Matt’s Enneagram number [4:33] * Year-end giving statistics [6:55] * Matt remembers his first December at Frontier [8:42] * What is “Giving Tuesday” and does it matter? [10:46] * Is there such a thing as “too many emails” during year-end giving? [18:41] * Is event-driven fundraising necessary? [21:54] * Embracing optimism as a fundraising strategy [26:53] * Seasonality in fundraising [31:21] * What does an integrated marketing strategy look like? [34:03] * The shareability of fundraising [42:24]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io! * Type Seven — The Enneagram Institute * GivingTuesday * NextAfter
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
Ben has turned 10 years old! At least in Frontier Years. Matt and Ben also get to talk about the new venture they are exploring with webinars and jump into the Junk Mail and answer a question about premiums.
Special guest Sarah Krzymowski joins Ben to discuss why Frontier uses the Enneagram as a tool for a better understanding of donors.
Where is the balance of great stewardship and ask frequency? Matt is back to help Ben explore the subject of donor fatigue and how to prevent it.
Where is the balance of great stewardship and ask frequency? Matt is back to help Ben explore the subject of donor fatigue and how to prevent it.
Junkmail is alive and thriving! Thanks to the research of Innes Purdue, Ben and Matt delve deep into the benefits of print acquisition and how to select the winning rental list.
Matt is out exploring the Ontario wilderness and left Ben solo! Ben spends this time to reflect on the last 10 years of Frontier, the journey he has had, and how fundraising and donor attitudes have shifted.
Social media of an organization can be difficult to navigate, as a brand itself isn’t looking for social connection. So how does a charity engage online with its donors and is social media the best way forward for your organization? Ben and Matt discuss on this episode of Frontier FM
It’s safe to say COVID-19 has forced the world into digital spaces whether they were ready or not. But what will the impact be for the fundraising community? On this episode of Frontier FM, Matt and Ben explore the latest digital trends, the rise of Gen X donors, and how subscription culture will impact online giving in 2020 and beyond. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... * Matt and Ben give a pandemic update [1:44] * The acceleration of digital in 2020 [3:34] * Embracing Gen X as the next wave of generosity [5:56] * Serving analog people in an increasingly digital world [7:38] * Removing barriers to digital giving [12:04] * The impact of digital trends on charitable giving [14:12] * What creates a successful monthly donor program? [35:30] * The pandemic’s impact on Frontier and the charitable giving landscape [43:44] * The advent of Dark Mode [52:08]
Resources & People Mentioned * Email Matt and Ben YOUR fundraising questions at junkmail@frontier.io * Asana Project Management Software * How to Engage Different Generations of Donors (Article) * Gen X Giving - Effective Fundraising Strategies for Gen X Donors (Article) * NextAfter
Connect With Frontier * https://Frontier.io * Frontier on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frontiermarketingco/ * Frontier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/frontiermarketingco/
In this episode, Ben explores the interconnectedness of us all. How is our lack of distractions during a pandemic leading us to seek out connection?
Matt picks Ben’s brain about how this affects international development and civic charities. Has subscription culture affected the way charities review donor giving?
Frontier Marketing is taking a week off! Before Sabbath Week, Ben and Matt discuss what’s so appealing about long-form donor appeals and the power of storytelling.
In Frontier’s new Podcast, Ben Johnson and Matt Hussey discuss the religion of Direct Mail, and why it’s become an important piece of fundraising. Are charity organisation's responding to COVID-19 directly? What if they aren't directing contributing to relief efforts, is it still relevant for them to discuss this with their donors?
Ben and Matt dive in-depth into the research about these topics.