Major Gifts Fundraiser Podcast-Hosted by Clark Vandeventer

Clark talks about lessons learned from a round of recent donor meetings and how a donor's philanthropic disposition can be more important than their financial capacity.

Getting started in estate planning does not have to be hard. It starts with a simple question. Just ask your donors if they've included any organizations in their will. Or ask if they'd consider including your organization in their will. Clark talks about conversations he had with donors on a recent donor trip about estate planning.

Clark often mentions how much he's learned about life and fundraising through endurance athletic events, but rarely does he go into exactly what he's learned. In this episode Clark talks about some of the big lessons from the past and his recent 100K run. You can reach out to Clark directly at clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com

Summary:Clark's back on the mic—recorded just before heading to Guatemala—and reflecting on gratitude, career courage, and what it means to be all in. Whether you’re planning your next donor visit or questioning your fit in your current role, this episode will challenge you to examine your alignment and make the next right move.You'll hear how a hostel in Antigua ties into Clark’s personal story and why where you sit matters—not just for you, but for your donors, your mission, and your long-term impact.What You’ll Learn:Why gratitude is a fundraiser’s secret weaponThe two questions every development officer should ask themselvesWhat Steve Jobs, Marlin Burnham, and a Guatemalan hostel have to do with your career pathThe cost of staying in the wrong seat—and the joy of finding the right oneHow to know if it's time to quit (or lean in deeper)Quotable Moment:“If you're not all in, you're just delaying yourself. You’re building donor relationships you’re not going to keep. That’s a bummer—for you and for them.”Links & Resources:Learn more about Clark’s work at MajorGiftsFundraiser.comWatch the Steve Jobs Stanford Commencement Address (2005)Read: Community Before Self by Malin Burnham Let’s Connect:Got something you’re grateful for?Have a question about your next move?Send Clark an email: Clark@MajorGiftsFundraiser.com

Is Asking for a Gift the Next Right Thing?Summary:Are you about to ask someone for a gift? Maybe the meeting is already on the calendar… but before you make the ask, Clark wants you to pause and reflect.In this episode, Clark shares a powerful mindset shift that can elevate your fundraising from transactional to transformational: asking not because you need the money, but because it's the next right thing in the relationship.You’ll hear the story of Creative Grounds Fine Arts Academy, a children’s theater program that transformed its fundraising strategy through this principle. Plus, Clark brings in inspiration from an unlikely source—Frozen II—to remind us that when the path feels unclear, our job is simply to take the next right step.What You’ll Learn:Why asking “Do we need the money?” is the wrong questionA better litmus test: “Will this ask serve the donor?”How to build long-term relational abundance, not just hit financial targetsThe donor-centric power of asking only when it deepens the relationshipHow a children’s theater used mentorship—and music—to raise more and serve betterQuotable Moment:“We need to only ask for a gift if we can say that asking is the next right thing.”Links & Resources:Want help discerning your next right move with a donor? Try the AI-powered Clarkbot at MajorGiftsFundraiser.comTake Action:Have a question or want to workshop a donor relationship? Email Clark directly at Clark@MajorGiftsFundraiser.com If this episode helped you reframe your thinking, please rate and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more mission-driven fundraisers.Want to level up your skills fast? Check out our 5-day course on writing high-performing appeal letters—available now at MajorGiftsFundraiser.com

Summary:In this episode, Clark dives into the most underrated (yet powerful) skill a fundraiser can cultivate: gratitude.Far beyond gift acknowledgments and thank-you letters, Clark explores how authentic gratitude—when it’s woven into your worldview—can transform your relationships with donors, elevate your joy in the work, and even raise more money. Drawing from personal reflections, practical tips, and the wisdom of Henri Nouwen, he outlines a simple but profound truth: fundraising isn’t about begging—it’s about partnership.You’ll walk away with actionable practices to help you strengthen your “gratitude muscles” so that you don’t just express gratitude… you live it.Key Topics Covered:Why entitlement, bitterness, and resentment are red flags in fundraisingThe sacredness of the donor’s gift: they’re giving you a piece of their lifeWhy real stewardship starts with internal gratitude, not external tacticsPractical daily exercises to grow your gratitude muscles:Journaling and listing what you’re thankful forSending spontaneous thank-you textsWriting long-form letters of appreciationTipping generously as an act of abundance and perspectiveHow gratitude changes not just your donor relationships, but your entire posture toward the worldThe connection between abundance, joy, and generosity in leadershipFeatured Quote:“When donors give their money, they’re giving you little fragments of their life.”Mentioned in This Episode:A Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri NouwenClark’s personal gratitude routinesThe phrase “poco a poco” — little by little, one travels farJimmy Buffett’s line: “Made enough money to buy Miami, but I pissed it away so fast…”Opportunities for Deeper Engagement:Clarkbot – Your AI-powered fundraising coach trained on Major Gifts Fundraiser strategy. Try it freeNew Course: Write Your Year-End Appeal in 5 Days – Led by Monica, this asynchronous course will walk you through building your entire year-end fundraising campaign.Monica@MajorGiftsFundraiser.comConnect with Clark:Email: Clark@MajorGiftsFundraiser.comSocial:Instagram: @majorgiftsfundraiser / @clarkvandLinkedIn: Major Gifts FundraiserFacebook: Major Gifts FundraiserEnjoying the show?Follow, rate, or review the podcast—your feedback helps us reach more mission-driven fundraisers just like you.

Summary:In this special episode, Clark is joined by Monica Vandeventer—CEO of Major Gifts Fundraiser and the brain behind the ClarkBot. Together, they unpack how fundraisers can simplify, streamline, and elevate their year-end appeal process using the ClarkBot and a brand-new guided 5-day course.Monica explains how the ClarkBot isn’t just another AI tool—it’s a personalized fundraising assistant trained on Major Gifts Fundraiser’s own methodology, ready to walk with you step-by-step through appeal writing, email copy, social media, phone scripts, and more. Whether you’re staring at a blank page or stuck refining your message, the ClarkBot offers practical help—without the burnout.They also dive into the common mistakes nonprofits make when writing appeals, why message structure matters, and Monica’s signature framework for appeal content: Why, Why Us, Why Now.If you want to avoid a stressful December, this episode is your invitation to give yourself an early Christmas present: a fully prepped year-end campaign that actually works.Topics Covered:What the ClarkBot is and how it worksUsing AI to craft donor-centric, effective year-end appealsThe 5-day course structure and what to expectMonica’s “Why / Why Us / Why Now” messaging frameworkWhy most organizations focus on the wrong part of the appealTips to get your letter opened, read, and acted onHow nonprofits can free up their December by planning nowThe problem with major donors giving messaging adviceUsing data-driven best practices from research (like Next After)Program Info: Write Your Year-End Appeal in 5 DaysCost: $279 one-timeLaunch Date: Opens August 18Structure: 5 asynchronous video modules with hands-on ClarkBot integrationOutcome: A completed multi-channel year-end campaign (letter, emails, social media, phone scripts, timeline)Signup Link: See show notes or visit majorgiftsfundraiser.comMentioned in This Episode:ClarkBot: Your AI fundraising coach, trained on Clark’s voice and donor-centric strategiesNext After: Nonprofit research and A/B testing hub for what actually works in appealsListener Preferences Podcast: (Referenced toward the end of this episode) – learning to tailor messaging for different types of donorsConnect with Us:Email:Clark: Clark@MajorGiftsFundraiser.comMonica: Monica@MajorGiftsFundraiser.comSocial:Instagram: @majorgiftsfundraiserFacebook: Major Gifts FundraiserLinkedIn: Major Gifts FundraiserClark’s personal IG (for Romania updates): @clarkvand

Summary:Are you walking, resting, or sprinting right now? In this episode, Clark Vandeventer shares a powerful metaphor drawn from his time trail running in Tahoe to help you evaluate the pace of your fundraising work. He explores what it means to find a rhythm you can sustain for the long haul—and how to avoid burnout.Clark also offers two simple, relationship-rich habits you can adopt today to deepen donor engagement without exhausting yourself. And he introduces the Clarkbot, an AI-powered tool that makes his insight and encouragement available anytime you need it.Topics covered:What endurance running teaches us about sustainable fundraisingThe dangers of running all-out too longThe importance of pacing: when to push and when to restClark’s “3 donor calls on a walk” routineWhy handwritten notes still matterThe mindset of poco a poco—little by little, one travels farMentioned in This Episode:Clarkbot – Clark’s AI-powered chatbot that answers fundraising questions in Clark’s own voice and tone. Try it for free at www.majorgiftsfundraiser.comConnect with Clark:If you'd like personal feedback on your annual work rhythm or just want to say hello, reach out to Clark at Clark@MajorGiftsFundraiser.com.Help Us Grow:If this episode encouraged or challenged you, please consider rating, reviewing, or following the podcast. Your feedback helps us reach and support more fundraisers like you.

Summary:In this episode, Clark Vandeventer reflects on his annual “Tahoe Time” and uses the example of his Airbnb hosting experience to deliver a timely message for fundraisers: do the basics well—and then, surprise and delight.Clark draws on a quote from the Disney Guide on customer service to challenge fundraisers not to rely on occasional grand gestures, but to consistently deliver meaningful, relationship-rich experiences for donors. You’ll hear about his Stewardship Basics Scorecard, the importance of setting a service baseline, and how playful touches—like fairy gardens and handwritten notes—can only add value after the fundamentals are in place.This episode is full of practical wisdom for fundraisers who want to steward donors in a way that is both effective and heartfelt.Topics covered:The power of establishing a donor stewardship foundationWhy systems alone are not enoughWhen and how to “surprise and delight” your supportersWhat Disney can teach us about consistency in donor careA case study in service and playfulnessAvoiding the trap of overcompensating with heroic gesturesWhy true service must come from the heartResources mentioned:Stewardship Basics Scorecard – a self-assessment tool to evaluate your donor care systemsClarkbot – Clark’s AI assistant trained on hundreds of thousands of his words, available at www.MajorGiftsFundraiser.comFollow Clark’s Adventure:Personal Instagram – @clarkvandProfessional Instagram – @majorgiftsfundraiserConnect with Clark:Have a question or just want to connect? Reach out to Clark at Clark@MajorGiftsFundraiser.comEnjoying the podcast?Follow, rate, and review wherever you listen. Your support helps us serve more fundraisers doing meaningful work.

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser Podcast, Monica and Clark delve into the significance of understanding oneself and others in the context of fundraising. They discuss various personality profiles, the importance of listening, and how to adapt communication styles to better connect with donors. The introduction of the ClarkBot, an AI tool designed to assist fundraisers, is also highlighted, along with upcoming training opportunities and hypothetical ideas for future engagement.TakeawaysUnderstanding your own strengths and weaknesses is crucial.Knowing your partner's love language is more important.Curiosity about donors is essential for fundraisers.Asking strategic questions can enhance donor relationships.Different types of questions can elicit valuable donor insights.Listener preferences can impact donor engagement.Fundraisers should adapt their communication style to match donor preferences.The ClarkBot offers real-time support for fundraisers.Confidence in fundraising comes from clarity and action.Engaging in training cohorts can enhance fundraising skills.

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark discusses the importance of personal connections in donor engagement, navigating donor visits that include family and friends, and the value of shared experiences in fundraising. Additionally, he introduces the ClarkBot, an AI-powered tool designed to assist fundraisers with their questions and strategies. TakeawaysRest is not my forte; I typically relax by doing hard things.When hosting donors, it's about conducting a visit, not just tour guiding.Engaging donors involves asking strategic questions amidst personal connections.Bringing family or friends to donor visits can complicate strategic discussions.Shared experiences with donors can enhance their commitment to the organization.The ClarkBot is a valuable tool for fundraising questions and support.Good relationships are built on shared experiences and interactions.Asking strategic questions in front of family can be beneficial for all.Slow and steady processes can lead to more effective outcomes in fundraising.Personal connections are key to successful donor engagement.

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark discusses the critical role of culture in fundraising, emphasizing that who you are as a fundraiser matters more than what you do. He explores the importance of genuine gratitude, building authentic relationships with donors, and understanding the deeper nature of donor transactions. The conversation highlights practical strategies for cultivating a positive fundraising culture and the right intentions behind asking for donations.TakeawaysCulture is more important than strategy in fundraising.What you are as a fundraiser speaks louder than your actions.Genuine gratitude is essential for successful fundraising.Building relationships with donors is key to fundraising success.Donors are partners in your mission, not just sources of money.Gratitude should be a defining characteristic of fundraisers.Understanding the emotional connection behind donations is crucial.Asking for donations should be about serving the donor's interests.Reflecting on donor impact can enhance feelings of gratitude.Creating a positive fundraising culture starts with the right intentions.

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark discusses the importance of meaningful connections in fundraising, the introduction of the AI-powered Clark Bot, and practical advice on crafting effective thank you notes. The conversation emphasizes building strong fundraising habits and strategic questions for engaging donors, highlighting the relationship between fundraising success and authentic connections.TakeawaysThe importance of reflecting on whether daily tasks matter in fundraising.Building relationships with donors is as crucial as spending time with family.The Clark Bot is designed to assist fundraisers with practical advice.Handwritten thank-you notes are a powerful tool for donor engagement.Consistency and intentionality are key in building fundraising habits.Daily donor touchpoints can significantly enhance relationships over time.Preparation before donor meetings is essential for success.Reflection after donor interactions helps in continuous improvement.Understanding donor motivations can lead to increased giving.The relationship is the primary focus, with money being a byproduct.

Summary:In this episode, Clark Vandeventer uses the example of his Airbnb hosting experience to deliver a timely message for fundraisers: do the basics well—and then, surprise and delight.Clark draws on a quote from the Disney Guide on customer service to challenge fundraisers not to rely on occasional grand gestures, but to consistently deliver meaningful, relationship-rich experiences for donors. You’ll hear about his Stewardship Basics Scorecard, the importance of setting a service baseline, and how playful touches—like fairy gardens and handwritten notes—can only add value after the fundamentals are in place.This episode is full of practical wisdom for fundraisers who want to steward donors in a way that is both effective and heartfelt.Topics covered:The power of establishing a donor stewardship foundationWhy systems alone are not enoughWhen and how to “surprise and delight” your supportersWhat Disney can teach us about consistency in donor careClark’s Tahoe Airbnb: a case study in service and playfulnessAvoiding the trap of overcompensating with heroic gesturesWhy true service must come from the heartResources mentioned:Stewardship Basics Scorecard – a self-assessment tool to evaluate your donor care systemsClarkbot – Clark’s AI assistant trained on hundreds of thousands of his words, available at www.MajorGiftsFundraiser.comFollow Clark’s Adventure:Personal Instagram – @clarkvandProfessional Instagram – @majorgiftsfundraiserConnect with Clark:Have a question or just want to connect? Reach out to Clark at Clark@MajorGiftsFundraiser.comEnjoying the podcast?Follow, rate, and review wherever you listen. Your support helps us serve more fundraisers doing meaningful work.

SummaryIn this episode, Clark Vandeventer introduces the innovative ClarkBot, an AI-powered chatbot designed to assist fundraisers in their efforts. The conversation explores how the ClarkBot can help users navigate donor relationships, set the stage for asks, and determine appropriate ask amounts. Throughout the episode, Clark emphasizes the importance of personal connection and relationship building in fundraising, while also providing insights into the subscription model for accessing the ClarkBot and additional resources.TakeawaysThe ClarkBot is designed to simulate conversations and provide fundraising advice.AI can analyze past coaching calls and training materials to offer tailored support.Setting the stage for a donor ask is crucial for success.Understanding a donor's history and capacity is key to determining the ask amount.Building relationships with donors is essential before making a significant ask.Personal connection enhances the fundraising experience and increases the likelihood of success.The ClarkBot offers affirming and supportive responses to users' inquiries.Fundraisers should focus on getting meetings with donors to build rapport.The subscription model for the ClarkBot includes group coaching and additional resources.Feedback from beta users highlights the practical benefits of using the ClarkBot.

SummaryIn this episode of the Major Gifts Fundraiser podcast, Clark Vandeventer discusses the importance of morning routines, personal fulfillment through the three-hour rule, and the balance between maintenance and intensity in life. He emphasizes the need for self-care and intentionality in both personal and professional development, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own routines and goals.TakeawaysThe three-hour rule allows for personal fulfillment.You don’t have to be intense all the time, but you must maintain.Life belongs to the community, and we should serve it.Morning routines set the tone for the day.Self-care is essential for peak performance.Budgeting and scheduling are forms of life energy management.Maintenance mode is necessary for long-term success.Reflect on when to have intense periods of work.Thankfulness for the opportunity to serve others is vital.

Clark pulls back the curtain on the internal culture of fundraising teams. Why do so many talented people leave after 18–24 months? What does it take to create an environment where fundraisers feel empowered, supported, and fulfilled? From the joy of meaningful work to the burnout that comes from feeling like a cog in a machine, they explore the hidden forces shaping nonprofit development—and how to build something better. Whether you’re a team leader or just starting out, this episode invites you to reflect on what kind of culture you're helping create.

In this episode, Clark Vandeventer talks about the three big pieces to your year-end, and that starts with spending the month of November exuding gratitude. Email Clark at clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com Major Gifts Fundraiser on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/majorgiftsfundraiser/⁠ Major Gifts Fundraiser on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/majorgiftsfundraiser⁠ Major Gifts Fundraiser on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/major-gifts-fundraiser/⁠ Email Clark: ⁠clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com⁠ Zoom with Clark: Find an available time on Clark’s calendar and schedule a Zoom call him: ⁠https://calendly.com/clarkvand⁠ Learn more at: ⁠https://majorgiftsfundraiser.com/⁠

Can you text your donors? Is that appropriate? If you're asking that question, it may be an indication we have another issue to deal with. Host Clark Vandeventer talks about whether it's appropriate to text your donors. Email Clark at clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com Major Gifts Fundraiser on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/majorgiftsfundraiser/⁠ Major Gifts Fundraiser on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/majorgiftsfundraiser⁠ Major Gifts Fundraiser on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/major-gifts-fundraiser/⁠ Email Clark: ⁠clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com⁠ Zoom with Clark: Find an available time on Clark’s calendar and schedule a Zoom call him: ⁠https://calendly.com/clarkvand⁠ Learn more at: ⁠https://majorgiftsfundraiser.com/⁠

Clark shares a list of 30 tips for connecting with others. This is great life advice for caring for others and creating a high touch environment. Email Clark at clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com Major Gifts Fundraiser on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/majorgiftsfundraiser/⁠ Major Gifts Fundraiser on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/majorgiftsfundraiser⁠ Major Gifts Fundraiser on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/major-gifts-fundraiser/⁠ Email Clark: ⁠clark@majorgiftsfundraiser.com⁠ Zoom with Clark: Find an available time on Clark’s calendar and schedule a Zoom call him: ⁠https://calendly.com/clarkvand⁠ Learn more at: ⁠https://majorgiftsfundraiser.com/⁠