Raise Nation

Practicing donor conversations has never been this fun… or this effective, thanks to AI and a little help from Tivi. SHOW NOTES:September 11, 2025 – Episode # 195Practicing to Win: Fundraising Confidence with Practivated… and an Octopus Named TiviFundraising can be challenging, stressful, and full of high-stakes conversations. But what if practice could turn anxiety into confidence? On this episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego reconnects with Mallory Erickson, founder of Practivated, to explore how her innovative AI platform helps fundraisers rehearse and refine donor conversations. Guided by Tivi the octopus, fundraisers can simulate real-life donor scenarios, receive instant feedback, and gain the confidence needed to connect more authentically. This conversation is a reminder that technology and human connection don't compete. They enhance each other, and even a little octopus can make learning fun. Big shout-out to Mallory for her inspiring speaking session at Raise 2025 and to Practivated for sponsoring the conference. We're thrilled to feature them in our very first Raise coverage of the season! Guest Reflection: “Tivi reminds us that it's okay to stumble in practice, because every misstep we rehearse now is a confident connection later.“ — Mallory EricksonEpisode Highlights: Sharing Mallory's journey from burnout to empowered fundraising leadership. Practicing with intention to transform donor conversations and entire careers. Leveraging Practivated to simulate donor interactions and build confidence. Reducing fear of rejection by turning challenges into meaningful connections. Applying AI-driven practice while keeping the human touch at the center. Connect with our Guests: Mallory Erickson Episodes Resources: Practivated Blog Responsible AI What the Fundraising Power Partners Formula

Celebrating the magic when families, volunteers, and communities come together under one roof of hope. SHOW NOTES:September 4, 2025 – Episode # 194Love Has an Address: A Home of Heart at Ronald McDonald House Charities AugustaRaise Nation returns this season with a mission that touches the heart of every listener. What does love look like when a child is sick? Sometimes, it looks like a warm meal after a long day at the hospital. Sometimes, it's a cozy room where families can rest without worry. And sometimes, it's the kindness of strangers who choose to care. On this heart-inspiring episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego sits down with David Jacobsen, President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Augusta, to open up about the ways this extraordinary mission has been keeping families close for 50 years. From unforgettable family stories to the simple yet profound ways communities give back, this conversation reminds us that love doesn't just heal, it multiplies. Guest Reflection: “Every Ronald McDonald House is proof that when a community decides to care, love becomes stronger than illness, and families find the strength to keep going.“ — David Jacobsen Episode Highlights: Jimmy Murray's visionary leadership Dr. Audrey Evans' (Mother of Neuroblastoma) compassionate legacy. Why “home” means more than a roof for families facing pediatric medical treatment. Stories that reveal the everyday miracles inside Ronald McDonald Houses. How volunteers turn small acts, like cooking dinner, into lifelong impact. The partnership with McDonald's and local communities fueling the mission. OneCause Customer Profile: Customer Success Manager: Kaitlin Desautels Fundraising Software: OneCause Fundraising Platform Signature Event(s): Wine, Women, and Shoes Connect with our Guests: David Jacobsen Episodes Resources: Ronald McDonald House Charities Augusta Audrey's Children on Peacock R.I.P. Jimmy Murray (6/5/1938 – 8/25/2025) Get Involved Family Table

Demystifying planned giving, while inspiring nonprofits to build donor legacies that last. SHOW NOTES:June 5, 2025 - Episode # 187Legacy in the Making: Turning Donor Dreams into Enduring Impact What if your donors could make a lasting difference, long after their final gift? In this thought-provoking episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego is joined by Dan Radcliff, Program Director at Eder Financial, to explore the transformational power of planned giving and legacy gifts. With a unique perspective shaped by his transition from the for-profit banking world to serving nonprofits exclusively, Dan brings clarity, compassion, and strategy to a topic many organizations shy away from. Discover how donor-advised funds, tax advantages, and personal passions converge to create not just gifts, but enduring legacies. Whether you're new to planned giving or looking to revamp your approach, this episode delivers practical insights, deep expertise, and a call to action for nonprofits to own their financial future…starting now. Guest Reflection: "Planned giving isn't about preparing for death, it's about preparing for impact. When donors align their financial plans with their passions, they don't just give; they live on." -- Dan Radcliff Episode Highlights: - Why nonprofits must initiate planned giving conversations before donors are nearing end-of-life decisions. - The importance of donor control, flexibility, and tax-smart strategies in legacy gift planning. - Breakdown of various planned giving vehicles, including donor-advised funds and non-cash gifts. - The emotional side of giving: how passion and purpose drive powerful philanthropic legacies. - Tips for analyzing your donor database to identify ideal planned giving prospects. Connect with our Guest: Daniel Radcliff - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-radcliff-61259b8a/Episodes Resources: Eder Financial - https://ederfinancial.org/Deferred Gifts - https://ederfinancial.org/Deferred-GiftsThank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

Tuned In & Turned Up Raise SeriesThat's a wrap for Raise 2024, but the inspiration and content from the Conference are far from over!We had six incredible podcasters on-site, capturing the latest and greatest insights from the nonprofit world to bring you all the highlights straight from Music City.In the first of six special Raise Nation Radio episodes, we're featuring inspiring conversations with:Samantha Swaim & Kristin Steele - Swaim StrategiesTom Riles - Tom Riles Auctions & Life of DadMike Wilkinson - Human Rights Campaign (HRC)Get ready for your next dose of fundraising inspiration! Tune in to all six episodes of this series and follow Raise Nation Radio on your favorite podcast platform, or check us out on the OneCause YouTube channel.Highlights of this episode:Building a community around your true northReimagining events with a focus on fundraising successCreating authentic and engaging event experiencesUsing current headlines to inform future fundraising strategiesOffering exclusive pre-sale opportunitiesListening to donors and adapting to their needsConnect with our guests on LinkedIn:Samantha SwaimKristin SteeleTom RilesMike WilkinsonConnect with our Raise Amplifiers:Dawn Lego OneCause & Raise Nation RadioMatt Bitzegaio DonorDock & Beyond the DonationSamantha Swaim The Fundraising Elevator & Elevate 2.0Kristin Steele The Fundraising Elevator & Elevate 2.0Taylor Shanklin Barlele & Creative ShizzleCindy Wagman Cindy Wagman Consulting & ConfessionsUtopia