A Rowboat in the Ocean

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

#Fundraising #The Focus Group - Brad Layland #CEO of The Focus Group #Brad Layland #Self-Improvement #Podcasting Education

51:57

On the Season 2 debut of Lost Cultures: Living Legacies , we travel to Bermuda, an Atlantic island whose history spans centuries and continents. Once uninhabited, Bermuda became a vital stop in transatlantic trade, a maritime stronghold, and a cultural crossroads shaped by African, European, Caribbean, and Native American influences. Guests Dr. Kristy Warren and Dr. Edward Harris trace its transformation from an uninhabited island to a strategic outpost shaped by shipwrecks, colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires. Plus, former Director of Tourism Gary Phillips shares the story of the Gombey tradition, a vibrant performance art rooted in resistance, migration, and cultural fusion. Together, they reveal how Bermuda’s layered past continues to shape its people, culture, and identity today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

about a year ago 50:53

MP3•Episode home

Pure Desire: Helping People Break Free from Sexual Struggles by Ted Roberts

https://puredesire.org/

Resources: Weekly podcast, stories of healing, Unwanted by Jay Stringer, 7 Pillars of Freedom workbook.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pure Desire Ministries 02:05 Nick Stumbo's Journey and Role 05:11 John Begeman's Background and Connection 06:43 The Importance of Vulnerability in Healing 09:45 Changing Church Culture Around Sexuality 14:16 Vision for the Future of Pure Desire 17:06 Challenges in Fundraising and Donor Relationships 22:52 Funding and Impact of Pure Desire 28:06 Counseling and Support for Leaders 32:02 Strategic Growth and Capital Campaigns 38:25 Lessons in Fundraising and Donor Engagement 44:20 Resources for Healing and Growth

71 episodes

A Rowboat in the Ocean

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Pure Desire: Helping People Break Free from Sexual Struggles by Ted Roberts

https://puredesire.org/

Resources: Weekly podcast, stories of healing, Unwanted by Jay Stringer, 7 Pillars of Freedom workbook.

Chapters

71 episodes

#Fundraising #The Focus Group - Brad Layland #CEO of The Focus Group #Brad Layland #Self-Improvement #Podcasting Education

ทุกตอน

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Venturing Something Crazy for God 37:26

17 days ago37:26

37:26

Russ Gregg joins us to share the transformative journey of founding Hope Academy, a classical Christian school in Minneapolis that serves children living in poverty. Russ shares his personal story of faith and commitment to education, detailing the challenges faced in starting the school and the miraculous ways God provided resources and support. The discussion also covers the establishment of the Spreading Hope Network, which aims to replicate the success of Hope Academy in other cities, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the need for both founders and funders in educational initiatives. Book: Gospel Patrons, by John Rienhart https://spreadinghopenetwork.org/ https://www.hopeacademympls.org/…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
From the Margins to the Heart of Campus 55:18

4 weeks ago55:18

55:18

Bryan Bademan didn’t set out with a grand vision for Anselm House. When he joined the Christian study center at the University of Minnesota over 15 years ago, the ministry was struggling. It took five challenging years of dedicated effort just to achieve financial stability. However, as Bryan often notes, “God really loves the students and community at this university.” This love has been demonstrated through significant changes, including a renewed vision, a strategic relocation to the heart of the main campus in Minneapolis, and increased resources. Listen to our conversation to hear about this journey and how these developments have positioned Anselm House to become a leading force within the broader Christian study center movement. Important Book From Christendom to Apostolic Mission: Pastoral Strategies for an Apostolic Age, by Monsignor James P. Shea Website https://anselmhouse.org/…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Bringing Donors Into Your Story 37:51

6 weeks ago37:51

37:51

In this conversation, Brad and Scott Brown discuss the mission and impact of Globe International, a unique mission-sending agency that empowers missionaries to pursue their individual callings. Scott shares his personal journey with Globe, the challenges faced in fundraising, and the transformative role of The FOCUS Group in enhancing their development efforts. They highlight success stories from missionaries who have benefited from the "Taking Donor Seriously" model and discuss the future vision for Globe, including new training initiatives and courses. The conversation concludes with Scott sharing his love for books and his own writing endeavors. Globe International https://globeintl.org/ Taking Donors Seriously https://takingdonorsseriously.com/ Books Three Finger: The Mordecai Brown Story, by Scott Brown Baseball in Pensacola: America's Pastime & the City of Five Flags, By Scott Brown You Can Work Your Own Miracles, by Napoleon Hill The Circle Maker: Praying Circles Around Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears, by Mark Batterson Empower Your Nonprofit: Simple Ways to Co-Create with AI for Profound Impact, by Amy Neumann…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
A Rowboat in the Ocean 50:53

8 weeks ago50:53

50:53

In this conversation, Brad interviews Nick Stumbo and John Begeman from Pure Desire Ministries, discussing their mission to help individuals overcome sexual addiction and the importance of community in healing. They share personal stories of struggle and recovery, emphasizing the need for churches to address sexual issues openly. The discussion also covers fundraising challenges, the growth of Pure Desire, and the impact of their counseling programs. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, donor engagement, and the vision for changing church culture around sexual health. Pure Desire: Helping People Break Free from Sexual Struggles by Ted Roberts https://puredesire.org/ Resources: Weekly podcast, stories of healing, Unwanted by Jay Stringer, 7 Pillars of Freedom workbook. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pure Desire Ministries 02:05 Nick Stumbo's Journey and Role 05:11 John Begeman's Background and Connection 06:43 The Importance of Vulnerability in Healing 09:45 Changing Church Culture Around Sexuality 14:16 Vision for the Future of Pure Desire 17:06 Challenges in Fundraising and Donor Relationships 22:52 Funding and Impact of Pure Desire 28:06 Counseling and Support for Leaders 32:02 Strategic Growth and Capital Campaigns 38:25 Lessons in Fundraising and Donor Engagement 44:20 Resources for Healing and Growth…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
A Blueprint for Kingdom Impact 42:20

11 weeks ago42:20

42:20

In this episode, Brad sits down with John Hudson, the founder of 100 Fold Studio, a nonprofit international architecture firm based in Montana that serves both the spiritual and physical needs of communities worldwide. John shares how 100 Fold uniquely blends architecture with vocational discipleship—designing for ministries while equipping the next generation of architects to use their skills for God's kingdom. John’s journey is one of faith, resilience, and obedience to a calling greater than himself. From his early influences in architecture, including his grandmother’s legacy, to a life-changing moment in a remote village, John recounts how God led him to create 100 Fold Studio. He also shares the trials that shaped his path—losing a home, facing setbacks, and ultimately trusting God's plan. As the conversation unfolds, John and Brad discuss the remarkable success of 100 Fold’s recent capital campaign, surpassing its $4 million goal ten months early! John reflects on the overwhelming generosity, divine provision, and the lessons he’s learned through the process of fundraising for ministry growth. Whether you're in ministry, business, or simply seeking encouragement in following your own calling, this episode is a powerful testament to the faithfulness of God and the impact of saying “yes” to His plan. 100 Fold Website: https://100foldstudio.org/ Books important to John: "Radical" by David Platt "Undaunted Courage" by Meriwether Lewis "The Pastor" by Eugene Peterson…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Radically Hospitable 39:27

12 weeks ago39:27

39:27

Learning about Water Street Mission’s decade-long transformation to become a place that physically demonstrates the love of Christ–especially to those experiencing homelessness–would be a great story. The bonus is that, in this podcast, you will also get to know Jack Crowley who has been serving with the organization over 30 years and now serves as its president. His reflection on their strategic planning process? “I didn’t want it to be Jack’s strategic plan, and I knew there was a possibility of manipulating the process for that to happen. I wanted to respect the work God is doing at Water Street Mission and make sure we discerned His strategic plan for this organization.” I call that a dose of radical honesty. Water Street Mission website: https://wsm.org/…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
From the Rubble: Rebuilding a Stronger Culture 44:24

14 weeks ago44:24

44:24

Join us as we explore the transformative journey of leadership with Nigel Pollock, President of InterVarsity Canada. Tasked with revitalizing a nearly century-old ministry, Nigel began his tenure facing a $6 million debt, only to encounter the added challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic soon after. Through it all, he has focused on fostering a culture of kindness, trust, and acceptance, while introducing innovative strategies to advance their mission. In this episode, Nigel shares timeless wisdom, practical insights, and inspiring encouragement for leaders navigating their own paths of renewal. Tune in and be inspired to build a healthier, purpose-driven culture in your organization. https://ivcf.ca/about/ Book Recommendations “Retired: What Footballers Do When the Game's Up” by Alan Gernon “A Terrible Glory: Custer and the Little Bighorn - the Last Great Battle of the American West” by James Donovan “Holiness Here: Searching for God in the Ordinary Events of Everyday Life” by Karen Stiller…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Using Our Power to Stand Up to Injustice 39:54

16 weeks ago39:54

39:54

Thomas Keown grew up in Northern Ireland during “The Troubles,” a time of conflict that deeply formed him. Inspired by this experience, Thomas dedicated himself to serving others facing similar struggles and empowering them to create solutions within their own communities. In this episode, Thomas shares the powerful story behind founding Many Hopes, and his counter-intuitive learning that to fundraise well, sometimes you need to slow down. Books Recommendations “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes are High” Several Authors “Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty” by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson Links The Rising Video Website: https://manyhopes.org/…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
The Year-End Appeal...It's Not Impawsible 41:12

21 weeks ago41:12

41:12

In this episode, Brad, Dan, and Jamie from The FOCUS Group bring a mix of humor and expertise to tackle a crucial topic in nonprofit fundraising: year-end appeals. Fundraising can feel daunting—Who should you target? What's the best way to execute your strategy? How do you follow up effectively? Join us as we break it all down, share actionable insights, and offer practical tips to help make your year-end fundraising campaigns more manageable—and successful. TheFOCUSGroup.com…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Send Someone Else! 38:42

22 weeks ago38:42

38:42

Do you ever feel like God has called you to a big, challenging task? So did Rim Hinckley, founder and Head of School at The Geneva School of Manhattan. She started her career as a math teacher but soon found herself in NYC feeling the tug to respond to late pastor Tim Keller’s question: “What does this city really need?” Being faithful to answer that question has not been an easy road, but Rim shares, “Our timing is not the same as God’s, but when he delivers us, it’s more amazing than we can imagine.” Website: https://www.genevaschool.net/ Recommended Books: “Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation” – by Collin Hansen “The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” by Jonathan Haidt “Strange New World: How Thinkers and Activists Redefined Identity and Sparked the Sexual Revolution” – by Carl R. Trueman…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Stained Glass Windows 30:12

26 weeks ago30:12

30:12

Service, Learning & People. Romanita calls these the “red threads” that have been woven into her life and work since she was little. Her current role as CEO of M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust is simply the next step in her journey of living out these themes and following the quiet leading in her life. As a leader, she seeks to lift up and empower everyone around her by listening well and always investing in people. https://murdocktrust.org/ Book recommendations: A Testament of Devotion by Thomas Kelly The Way of the Heart: Connecting with God Through Prayer, Wisdom, and Silence by Henri Nouwen…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Fitness, Faith and Fundraising 39:11

28 weeks ago39:11

39:11

Andrew Smalley is UK-born, loves running and triathlons, and relishes the role he gets to play as head of school in St. Augustine, FL. Hear about Andrew’s journey to his current leadership role and the joy he finds in furthering classical Christian education. The school is in the process of launching a capital campaign, and Andrew knows that to do it well, “You have to start with a strategic plan that tells you what you need to raise money for.” https://veritasclassicalschool.org Books Mentioned Mathematics for Human Flourishing, by Francis Su The Coddling of the American Mind, by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
All For Jesus 35:00

31 weeks ago35:00

35:00

Reid Saunders is an evangelist who has led his organization for 27 years. During the past 15 years of Brad and Reid's friendship, RSA has grown 10x and has seen a million people make decisions to follow Jesus worldwide! Enjoy this inspiring and fun interview. Our prayer is that you are encouraged in your journey. Reid’s Book Recommendation: Finishing Strong: Going the Distance for Your Family by Steve Farrar Links: https://reidsaunders.org/ https://reidsaunders.org/books/ Book mentioned: Stories From The Ends Of The Earth…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Too Good To Be True? 46:49

34 weeks ago46:49

46:49

When I first learned about Medical Ambassadors International, the scale of their ministry relative to their budget seemed so crazy that it was almost too good to be true. In this episode, we dive deep with Dr. Ravi Jayakaran, the current President, to explore this incredible Christ-centered, grassroots organization. Their holistic approach beautifully intertwines physical and spiritual care, creating lasting change in communities. We’ll also discuss their recent capital campaign, which has dramatically transformed their work. Medical Ambassadors International has 231 staff members in 76 countries and utilize a robust number of volunteers. They combine medical help with the gospel's good news, impacting 3,007 communities and 3.4 million people! Website: https://www.medicalambassadors.org/ Healing Lives Magazine: https://www.medicalambassadors.org/publications/ Ravi’s book list: "Best Things in the Worst Times: An Insider’s View of World Vision” by Graeme Irvine Flamin' Hot: The Incredible True Story of One Man's Rise from Janitor to Top Executive Hardcover – by Richard Montanez Subversive Jesus: An Adventure in Justice, Mercy, and Faithfulness in a Broken World by Craig Warren Greenfield Transforming Worldviews: An Anthropological Understanding of How People Change by Paul G. Hiebert…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Deep Voice and Depth of Character 43:01

36 weeks ago43:01

43:01

Playing two truths and a lie with Trinidad-born Dr. Wintley Phipps would be tricky. It’s hard to fathom the number of famous people whose paths he has crossed—whether singing for Mother Theresa or for one of six different U.S. Presidents, or at Diana Ross’s wedding, or a divine appointment with a young and not-yet-famous Oprah Winfrey. However, one such “chance” meeting on an Amtrak commute with Chuck Colson, Prison Fellowship founder, eventually led to his passion for youth and the founding of the U.S. Dream Academy. Dr. Phipps entreats us to consider, “Imagine how much greater America would be today if we invested in character building for the kids who need it most?” https://www.usdreamacademy.org/…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Can "Seminary" and "Innovative" Go Together? 42:35

39 weeks ago42:35

42:35

Dr. Felix Theonugraha, President of Western Theological Seminary shares how he sees fundraising as a way to minister to and care for his donor partners. As many seminaries are struggling, Western, instead is leaning into their distinctives such as focus on mental health and Hispanic ministry. Part of their current capital campaign is raising funding to further innovative initiatives including ministry to those with disabilities and a center for Christian imagination. https://www.westernsem.edu/…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
What I Learned at Taco Tuesday 38:27

41 weeks ago38:27

38:27

Ray Keen exudes wisdom and compassion. He’s a veteran CEO of The Canby Center, a wrap-around care ministry to youth and families in a small town in Oregon. Even as a growing organization–they are currently finishing up a $10 million campaign to expand their facilities and services– they seek to emphasize dignity and learning for everyone they serve. Advice to his younger self? "Get to know the Lord, yourself, and those you serve." The Canby Center: thecanbycenter.org Book List: Practicing the Way, by John Mark Comer Giving it all away... and getting it back again, by David Green The 6 Types of Working Genius, by Patrick Lencioni Atomic Habits, by James Clear…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Saying "Yes" To Kids 38:40

43 weeks ago38:40

38:40

Chuck Hagele, CEO of Project Patch , is no stranger to darkness. The ministry he leads provides therapeutic residential programs for teens struggling with severe depression, anxiety and other acute challenges. Through fundraising, they strive to say "Yes" to kids needing treatment even if finances are a barrier. Chuck discusses the difficulties of learning his role, including transitioning leadership from the founder (who also happens to be his father-in-law.) Some helpful books he is reading are: Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood by Dr. Lisa Demore The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
The Most Significant Influencer in the World: Mom 32:02

45 weeks ago32:02

32:02

Mandy Arioto wrote a book about fun. She loves to give unusual gifts. She's also the President and CEO of the organization that led 58,000 women to follow Christ last year. Through her leadership of MomCo (formerly MOPS), she has transformed from seeing fundraising as a "necessary evil" to considering it one of the biggest blessings of her role. Mandy's book is: Have More Fun: How to Be Remarkable, Stop Feeling Stuck, and Start Enjoying Life https://www.themom.co/home She has recently enjoyed reading: Stillness Is the Key by Ryan Holiday Running with Sherman: How a Rescue Donkey Inspired a Rag-tag Gang of Runners to Enter the Craziest Race in America by Christopher McDougall…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
From Stockbroker to Apologist 28:59

48 weeks ago28:59

28:59

In this special Juneteenth edition of the podcast, we interview Lisa Fields, a prominent apologist, speaker and founder of the Jude 3 Project. The Jude 3 Project exists to help equip the black Christian community to know what they believe and why they believe it. Lisa is also an expert on Juneteenth and led the production of a recent faith-filled documentary picked up by PBS. If you are not familiar with Lisa and her work, you absolutely should be. Her book: When Faith Disappoints: The Gap Between What We Believe and What We Experience Films: Unspoken Documentary, PBS Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom Website: https://jude3project.org/ YouTube: @Jude3Project…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Redeeming Education for Jesus 38:34

49 weeks ago38:34

38:34

As God laid on his heart a desire to re-orient education to the focus of glorifying God, David Nees was drawn to classical education. He is now the Head of School at Heritage Classical Academy outside Cleveland, OH, and has led the school through a phenomenal season of growth in the last decade. More students often leads to a need for new physical spaces, and Heritage is, indeed, in the midst of a campaign to consolidate multiple campuses into one. A book that David recommends is: George Washington's Secret Six: The Spy Ring That Saved the American Revolution by Brian Kilmeade…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Outbidding the Amish 48:29

50 weeks ago48:29

48:29

Hear from Ty Fischer, a 27-year veteran Head of School at Veritas Academy in Lancaster, PA. He shares about the need for humility in asking for help with fundraising as well as the surprising diversity God has brought to his school via the refugee community. For a school nestled in Amish country, it has been an unexpected blessing to have students from over 10 different countries become part of this classical school community. Some books that Ty is reading are: Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up, by Abigail Shrier Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible's Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Modern Life and Culture, by Christopher Watkin…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
From the Holler to the World 32:42

1 year ago32:42

32:42

Oliver Asher, President of Advancing Native Missions, tells his story of a journey from a Virginia "Holler" to leading an organization that takes good news to the world. From him we hear about joy, optimism, commitment, and strategies he has employed to lead his growing organization successfully and effectively. Read more about Advancing Native Missions, Oliver, and his book “Invincible Joy!” https://advancingnativemissions.com/ https://www.oliverasher.com/…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
A Primer on Capital Campaigns (Geneva College) 40:07

1 year ago40:07

40:07

Dr. Calvin Troup, President of Geneva College opens up about his personal journey into higher ed and shares invaluable insights he's gleaned along the way that will benefit any fundraising professional. Delve into Geneva College's strategic planning process, feasibility studies and pivotal elements in their successful capital campaign. But beyond strategies, discover the profound significance of fostering real relationships and pursuing transparency throughout the fundraising process. Mentioned in the podcast: A Spirituality of Fundraising: The Henri Nouwen Spirituality Series by Henri J. M. Nouwen and John S. Mogabgab Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age Confronts Controversial Topics Including Sexuality, Faith, Feminism, Gender Roles, and Modesty by Rosaria Butterfield and Kevin DeYoung The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes by Nancy R. Pearcey “Meditation on the Third Commandment” by C.S. Lewis (Found in the book "God in the Dock")…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Sitting With Your Donors Even When They Cannot Talk 44:15

1 year ago44:15

44:15

Here’s the story of Ben Homan, President of Langham Partnership US, finishing his 14-year career with them. When it comes to fundraising, Brad says, “Follow Ben!” He has had a remarkable ministry as a leader and has seen the ministry multiply three times over this past capital campaign. He has used strategic planning, feasibility studies, capital campaigns, and team training in his fund-raising efforts. Perhaps the more important thing is how Ben sees his work with donors as a ministry. How he cares about them and cares for them. Not to mention the excellent fruit in the work of the Kingdom by Langham Partnership. Ben mentions the book, “A Terrible Glory: Custer and the Little Bighorn - the Last Great Battle of the American West” from his reading list.…

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
The Accidental CEO 32:05

1 year ago32:05

32:05

Listen to Beth Greco explain to Brad how she became the President and CEO of the Hoving Home, what has happened along the way, and how she manages to get the work done.

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Church Planting with Harbor Network 38:23

1 year ago38:23

38:23

Brad Layland interviews Dave Owens, Executive Director of the Harbor Network. Learn about this church planting network and how Dave carries out his fundraising to help it all happen.

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
An interview with Young Life's Brooke Filipovski 26:48

1 year ago26:48

26:48

What do Punta Gorda, Florida, Australia, and Macedonia have in common? Brooke Filipovski! This remarkable young woman has raised support and ministered to young people in some interesting places. Enjoy her story!

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
An interview with InterVarsity's Tom Lin 39:07

1 year ago39:07

39:07

Brad Layland interviews Tom Lin, the president of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship since 2016.

Taking Donors Seriously® Podcast

1
Jews for Jesus 37:50

1 year ago37:50