Raise Nation

Inspiring hope and health through powerful stories of community and compassion.SHOW NOTES:October 23, 2025 – Episode # 204Miles of Hope: Walking Together Toward Awareness and HealingOn this heartwarming episode of Raise Nation Radio, host Dawn Lego sits down with Pari Forood, Executive Director of the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation, to honor the stories, strength, and spirit behind breast cancer awareness. From financial assistance to patient advocacy, Pari shares how her small but mighty team turns compassion into action – empowering survivors, supporting families, and funding education programs that create real change in the fight against breast cancer. Together, Dawn and Pari remind listeners that awareness doesn't stop when October (breast cancer awareness month) ends. It's a year-round commitment to health, community, and early detection. Tune in to hear how one foundation's miles of effort have turned into miles of hope. And ladies—consider this your friendly reminder: please schedule your annual mammogram today. Guest Reflection: “Every step we take, every dollar we raise, brings us closer to a world where no one faces breast cancer alone.” — Pari FaroodEpisode Highlights: Turning Awareness into Action: Understand how early detection saves lives and strengthens communities. Power of Purposeful Giving: Discover how creative, community-driven fundraising translates into real-world impact. Hearts that Heal: Meet the volunteers who transform compassion into connection, one act of kindness at a time. Hope for the Next Generation: Learn how scholarships for students affected by breast cancer are rewriting stories of loss into legacies of love. $4 Million and Counting: Explore the ripple effect of Miles of Hope's remarkable fundraising efforts, and how every dollar raised restores dignity, courage, and care. OneCause Customer Profile: Customer Success Manager: Tyler Tranberg Fundraising Software: Peer-to-Peer Signature Event(s): Miles of Hope Walk Connect with our Guests: Miles of Hope Leadership Episodes Resources: Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation GrantsGet Involved Episode Credits and Extras: YouTube FREE ResourcesRaise Event Fundraising Conference Grant ProgramThank you for tuning in wherever you listen to your favorite podcast. Please like, follow, and subscribe to grow our community. Stay Fearless!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:October 16, 2025 – Episode # 203Turned Up Raise Series: Part 8Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 8th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Erin Kienzle – Giving4GoodBradley Martin – FeathrLouis Murad & Marty Murad – Murad AuctionsGet ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Creating Buzz and Bids: Use story-driven videos to grab attention, inspire giving, and elevate your gala – right from your iPhone.Pixels and Pints: Unlock digital tactics that prove real marketing ROI.Game On! Auction Strategies: Energize your auction with games and strategies that drive engagement and bigger bids.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:October 14, 2025 – Episode # 202Turned Up Raise Series: Part 7Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 7th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Kristen Bowles – National MS SocietyChristina Jones – Battered Women Justice ProjectErik Tomalis – AvidGet ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Campaigns That Transform: Innovative strategies for storytelling, community building, and leading multimillion-dollar initiatives.Social Media That Raises Millions: How to turn LinkedIn and Instagram activity into five- to seven-figure gifts.Fundraising That Connects: Why personal relationships and donor engagement matter more than transactions.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:October 9, 2025 - Episode # 201Turned Up Raise Series: Part 6Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 6th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Steve Lausch - OneCauseFrances Brooks, CFRE - Indiana University FoundationKevin Spykerman - Auction PackagesGet ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Innovation, Recognition & Connection: Dive into Raise highlight, innovation in action, award-winning nonprofits, and the deep community connections that spark inspiration.Trends that Drive Results: Discover sizzling travel experiences, emerging auction trends, and techniques to elevate engagement, bidding, and event performance.Powerful Calls to Action: Explore how evaluating personal motivations, deepening mission alignment, and cultivating shared values build trust, strengthen teams, and create psychological safety.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:October 7, 2025 - Episode # 200Turned Up Raise Series: Part 5Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 5th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Colleen Carroll - Double the DonationReggie Rivers - The Gala TeamSusan Kramer - Susan Kramer ConsultingGet ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Matching gifts significantly boost fundraising. Explore best practices for communication strategies that inspire action.Supercharge your paddle raise. Top tips and quick strategies for raising more at your next event.Your next major donor is closer than you think! Learn strategies to uncover hidden giving potential.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:October 2, 2025 – Episode # 199Turned Up Raise Series: Part 4Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 4th episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Tanya Frey – Terra Firma ConsultingNathan Chappell – VirtuousMary Elizabeth – Swaim StrategiesGet ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Inclusive fundraising is more critical than ever. Adapt and engage donors authentically to build long-term trust.AI is changing the way we live and work. Harness it responsibly while keeping people, purpose, and values at the center.Know when hybrid events are the right choice. Discover how tech and smart design can maximize results.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:September 2, 2025 – Episode # 198Turned Up Raise Series: Part 3Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 3rd episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Daniel Morford – The Pando InitiativeStephanie Ragozzino – OneCauseKel Haney – Kel Haney ConsultingGet ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Fundraising events drive impact. Strategically planned, they build community and boost support.Modern tech helps nonprofit leaders raise more, engage supporters year-round, and deliver seamless experiences.Phone calls make mid-level donors feel valued and can spark the next gift.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:September 25, 2025 – Episode # 197Turned Up Raise Series: Part 2Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 2nd episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Livia Christensen & Chris O'Shea – C2 AuctionsSarah Mason-Fagg – Breakthrough T1DT. Clay Buck – Next River Fundraising StrategiesGet ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Strategic thinking strengthens mission impact. Applying business expertise to nonprofit work brings focus and scalability.Events are powerful engines for impact. When managed strategically, they can build both community and critical funding.Systems and storytelling build sustainability. Nonprofits thrive when structure supports mission and stories connect with hearts.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

Big Ideas. Bold Voices. Fresh from Raise 2025!SHOW NOTES:September 18, 2025 – Episode # 196Turned Up Raise Series: Part 1Lights, energy, impact…Raise 2025 is a wrap! But the bold ideas and breakthrough moments from the conference are still rolling. From the backdrop of the San Antonio Riverwalk, our Raise Amplifiers captured powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and fearless fundraising strategies, delivering the magic from the stage straight to you.In the 1st episode of our special Raise Nation Radio series, we're spotlighting dynamic voices offering fresh ideas, expert knowledge, and practical insights to drive fundraising forward.Dr. Derreck Kayongo – Clean Production ActionSuzanne Stone – LivestrongMatt Bitzegaio – DonorDock Get ready for fundraising fuel that's equal parts practical and inspiring. Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform or catch the full series on the OneCause YouTube Channel.Highlights You'll Take Away: Creativity fuels impact. With vision and determination, even the simplest ideas can ripple into global change.Impact is amplified through adaptability. Nonprofit leaders thrive when they embrace new challenges and apply their experience in fresh ways.Innovation drives resilience. Nonprofits that embrace new approaches can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.Meet the Raise Amplifiers: Dawn Lego — OneCause & Raise Nation RadioKevin Spykerman – Auction PackagesSamantha Swaim – Swaim Strategies & The Fundraising ElevatorTrevor Nelson – HGA Fundraising & Hey NonprofitsAnd the production team: GSF MediaResources and Upcoming: Watch Raise 2025 On-DemandSave the date: Raise 2026, August 31 – September 1, Chicago, ILRaise 2026 presale tickets launch this October!

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!