Home
Podcasts
Story‑Driven Fundraising | Ministry, Fundraising Ideas, Donations, Marketing Plan, NonProfit Groups
Story‑Driven Fundraising | Ministry, Fundraising Ideas, Donations, Marketing Plan, NonProfit Groups
This podcast helps nonprofit leaders and ministry workers overcome the awkwardness of asking for money by using storytelling to connect with donors. Host Lisa Diaz shares strategies to make fundraising easier, reduce shame, and build long-term supporter relationships. Drawing from her experience as a missionary kid and ministry consultant, she teaches how to engage donors through compelling narratives. The show aims to replace trial-and-error fundraising with proven story-driven techniques that inspire giving.
Episodes
87 | The 3 Excuses Keeping Ministry Leaders Stuck in Fundraising
You know your fundraising message could be stronger. You know clearer communication would help donors understand, connect with, and support your ministry. So why haven’t you worked on it yet?In this episode, I share the 3 most common excuses ministry leaders make that keep them stuck in fundraising. You’ll learn what’s really behind the excuses, what they’re costing your ministry, and how clarifyi
86 | Experiencing Ministry Burn Out? Josh and Corina Share How to Find Hope Again in Fundraising, Leadership, and Calling
Burnout in ministry is rarely a matter of if. It’s usually a matter of when.In this episode, I’m joined by Josh and Corina from the Believe and Become podcast as they share their story of serving in worship ministry for years, carrying too much, hitting emotional and physical overwhelm, and realizing something had to change. We talk about identity, pressure, perfectionism, rest, hearing God’s voic
85 | Too Busy to Fundraise? 3 Simple Ways Ministry Leaders Stay Consistent in Busy Seasons
You know donor communication matters… but right now? You can barely keep your head above water.Summer schedules. Ministry emergencies. Family needs. Constant reacting. And somewhere in the middle of all that, you’re still supposed to send newsletters, stay connected with supporters, and keep fundraising moving forward.In this episode, we’re talking about what to do when ministry life gets so overw
84 | Stop Struggling to Write Ministry Newsletters: Include These 3 Things Every Time
You know you need to send ministry newsletters… but every time you sit down to write one, your brain goes blank.What do you include? What do you leave out? Do you even have enough to say?In this episode, I’m sharing the three most important things every ministry newsletter should include so writing becomes faster, simpler, and more effective.And if you want extra help, I also created a free minist
83 | Donors Aren’t Saying Yes? Fix This Ministry Fundraising Mistake
You keep talking about your ministry… but donors still aren’t connecting.If people seem interested but never actually support, your fundraising problem may not be your mission-it may be your message.In this episode, we’re talking about one of the biggest mistakes ministry leaders make when communicating with donors.If fundraising has felt heavy, confusing, or harder than it should be—this episode
82 | Why Ministry Fundraising Feels Slow and 3 Ways to Build Donor Trust Faster
People might love your ministry… and still hesitate to support it. That’s the frustrating part of fundraising that almost nobody talks about. You have conversations. People listen. They seem interested. They even encourage you. Yet somehow the support still feels slow.In this episode, we’re talking about why donor trust takes so long to build sometimes — and what you can do to speed that process u
81 | No Time to Fundraise? 3 Ways to Get Time Back for Ministry Support
Do you feel like fundraising keeps getting pushed to the bottom of your list?You know donor relationships matter. You know you should be communicating more consistently. But ministry responsibilities, meetings, events, homeschooling, emails, and constant interruptions keep taking over.And before you know it, another month passes without intentionally fundraising or nurturing donor relationships.In
80 | How to Get Donors to Say Yes Faster in Ministry Fundraising
What happens when the donors you were relying on end up not giving… or stop after a little while?It can throw everything off. Logistically, financially, emotionally. You start wondering what happened, why it’s taking so long for people to commit, and whether fundraising is always supposed to feel this difficult.So why does it take some donors months — or even years — to finally say yes?In this epi
79 | They Said They’d Give… Then Didn’t. What’s Blocking Consistent Fundraising
They said they’d give. They were excited. They meant it. And then… they don't follow through.Or maybe they gave once… and then stopped.vIt’s one of the hardest parts of fundraising—and it can leave you feeling confused, discouraged, and stuck.In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s actually causing donors not to follow through—and the 3 shifts you need to create more consistent, reliable
78 | Think Churches Don’t Care About Missions? What’s Actually Blocking Your Fundraising
You’ve thought it before. Churches just aren’t generous anymore. They don’t really care about missions.And after enough polite conversations, low support, and missed follow-through… it starts to feel true.But what if that’s not actually the problem? In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really blocking your fundraising with churches—and the 3 shifts that will help you communicate more clearl
77 | Your Fundraising Isn’t Connecting: 3 Ways to Turn Your Message Into a Compelling Story
Your donors are reading your updates… but they’re not responding. You’re sharing what you’ve done, the impact you’re making, the numbers-but something still feels off.Because information isn’t what creates connection. Story does.In this episode, I’ll walk you through 3 simple ways to turn your everyday updates into compelling stories that actually connect with your donors—so they understand the ne
76 | Want Your Ministry Fully Funded? 3 Things You Need In Your Fundraising Message
Why won't donors step into support when you know your ministry matters?If people are smiling, nodding, and saying “that’s great”… but not actually giving or engaging, the issue might not be your ministry—it’s your message.In this episode, we walk through the 3 non-negotiable elements your fundraising message must include if you want donors to truly connect, understand the urgency, and say yes
75 | Do Your Donors Feel Like ATMs or Partners? (Ministry Fundraising Relationships That Actually Work)
Be honest for a second… When your donors hear from you, does it feel like a relationship—or a transaction?Because most ministry leaders don’t mean to do it… but their donors end up feeling like ATMs. Only hearing from you when there’s a need. Only part of the story when money is involved.In this episode, we’re unpacking the difference between donors who feel like ATMs and donors who feel like true
74 | What NOT to Say When Fundraising for Your Ministry (And What to Say Instead)
You’re trying to explain your ministry… and something feels off. You’re talking, they’re nodding—but you can tell they’re not really getting it.So you start wondering: Am I using the wrong words? Am I saying something that’s pushing people away?In this episode, we’re breaking down what NOT to say in your fundraising—and how to shift your words so your message actually connects, makes sense, and le
73 | How to Fundraise for a Building Campaign Without Losing Donor Interest
Fundraising for a building, renovation, or project can feel harder than anything else.Because it’s not a person.It’s not a story.It’s a building.And when you’re trying to talk about it, it can feel… flat.So most ministry leaders either over-explain the details or struggle to make it sound compelling—and donors don’t really connect.In this episode, we’re breaking down how to fundraise for a buildin
72 | Don’t Make This Mistake After a Donor Says Yes (Ministry Fundraising)
Most ministry leaders think the hard part of fundraising is getting the yes.But what happens after that?Because this is where a lot of people unknowingly make a mistake that slowly disconnects their donors—without realizing it.They go quiet.They only reach out when they need something.Or they just don’t know what to say next.And over time, the relationship fades.In this episode, we’re talking abou
71 | You’re Using Story Wrong in Your Ministry Fundraising (Start Here Instead)
You know stories matter in fundraising. But when it’s time to actually use them, everything can start to feel forced. You freeze, overthink, or wonder if you even have a story worth sharing. In this episode, I’m breaking down two simple ways to use story in your ministry fundraising so your message feels clearer, stronger, and far more effective—without sounding salesy or fake.Similar episodes:#66
70 | Ready to See Consistent Giving? The Marketing Plan Every Ministry Leader Needs
**Last chance to learn how to start the conversation when you're asking for money at the FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop. Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising**Ever feel like your fundraising is just… all over the place?You’re trying different things—emails, social media, conversations—but nothing really seems to stick. And honestly? It starts to feel discouraging fast.In
69 | 3 Reasons Why Donors Aren’t Engaging With Your Ministry Fundraising
**Join the FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn exactly what to say when you ask for money. Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising**You keep showing up. You send the newsletter. You post the update. You share what God is doing. And still… it feels like crickets. No replies. No comments. No real response.In this episode, I’m breaking down the real reasons donors stop engaging
68 | How to Start a Fundraising Conversation Without Feeling Pushy
**Join the FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn exactly what to say when you ask for money. Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising**Why does fundraising in ministry feel so awkward… even when you know it matters? That pit in your stomach. The second-guessing. The fear that you’re bothering people or asking for something you don’t deserve.In this episode, we’re unpacking why
67 | Why Your Nonprofit Fundraising Feels Messy (And How to Build a Foundation That Works)
**Join my FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn how to ask for money without the ick. Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising**If your fundraising feels scattered… like you’re doing a little bit of everything but none of it really connects—you’re not alone. Most ministry leaders don’t actually have a clear foundation guiding their messaging. So every email, post, or conversati
66 | Ministry Fundraising Without Stories? Build a Simple Story Bank That Keeps Donors Engaged
**Join my FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn how to ask for money without the ick. Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising**You know stories are powerful. Stories of impact. Stories of the people your ministry serves. Stories of how God is moving. But when it’s time to write a donor update or newsletter… your mind suddenly goes blank.In this episode, I share a simple three-
65 | 3 Ways to Build Long-Term Donor Relationships That Actually Last
**Struggling with fundraising? Join the free workshop, Fundraise with Confidence, and learn how to start support conversations without feeling pushy or uncomfortable.Save your seat: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising **You care about your donors. You genuinely want to love them well and build real relationships with them. But sometimes you’re not sure what that actually looks like.How often should y
64 | LIVE COACHING: The Donor Clarity That Transformed Her Ministry Fundraising
Join my FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn how to ask for money without the ick. Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraisingMost ministries talk about how to ask for donations. But very few stop to ask a more important question: Who are we actually asking?In this episode, you’ll hear a real live coaching session where we work through identifying Cherilyn's ideal donor for
63 | Missionary Basics: 5 Steps to Share Your Story Clearly—Even If Fundraising Feels Awkward
**Join my FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn how to ask for money without the “ick.” In one hour, you’ll learn why fundraising feels so uncomfortable, how to reframe it so it feels honest, and what to say to start the conversation. Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising **When someone asks what your ministry does, do you start rambling, listing programs, and hoping it all
62 | Struggling to Fundraise? How a Clear Marketing Plan Can Get Your Ministry Fully Funded
**Join my FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn how to ask for money without the "ick". Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising **Fundraising can feel like the one part of ministry nobody prepared you for. You love the mission. You care deeply about the people you serve. But when it comes time to ask for support, something feels awkward, uncomfortable, or even a litt
61 | Top Ways to Attract Ideal Donors: A Clearer Approach to Ministry Fundraising
**Join my FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn how to ask for money without the "ick". Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising **If you feel like you’re running out of people to ask for donations, this episode breaks down a smarter approach to ministry fundraising. Instead of chasing random supporters, you’ll learn how to attract ideal donors who already care deeply
60 | Ministry Fundraising Feels Icky? 3 Mindset Shifts to Ask for Support with Confidence
**Join my FREE Fundraise with Confidence Workshop and learn how to ask for money without the "ick". Save your spot: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising **Fundraising still makes you feel icky. Tight chest. Rewritten emails. That subtle shame when you ask for support.In this episode, I’m talking about where that feeling actually comes from—and why it doesn’t have to stay. We’ll walk through
59 | 3 Signs Your Fundraising Message is Turning Donors Away
What if what you're saying to your supporters/donors is actually turning them away? The words you use matter- so let's break it down.We're talking about 3 subtle but powerful signs your ministry message is confusing donors — and why confusion quietly kills support. If people don’t clearly understand who your ministry is for, what problem you solve, or where they fit in the story, th
58 | Why Your Donors Aren’t Engaging—3 Simple Story Fixes That Reignite Connection
It’s hard not to wonder, “Do people even care about my ministry?” Even after pouring your heart out in a newsletter or update- no replies. no comments. barely a like. In this episode, we unpack why donor engagement drops — and it’s probably not what you think. I’ll walk you through 3 simple story shifts that can rebuild connection, restore clarity, and help your donors step into their real role.Li
57 | Not Getting Enough Donations? 3 Story Shifts That Inspire People to Give
Your ministry is doing good work — so why aren’t the donations coming in? If asking feels awkward, discouraging, or even gross… and you’re tired of hearing crickets after you share an update, this episode walks through three simple story-driven shifts that move fundraising from pressure to participation and help donors feel excited to give instead of avoiding the ask.Similar episodes:50 | LIVE COA
56 | Why Your Ministry Fundraising Ideas Fail and The #1 Way To Have Success
Something is actually wrong with the way you’re fundraising — and it’s not that you haven’t tried hard enough. If your ministry fundraising feels scattered, exhausting, or like you keep “trying new ideas” with nothing sticking, this episode reveals the real reason most fundraising fails — and the one message shift that finally brings clarity, donor trust, and consistent support you can sustain.Sim
55 | Fundraising is Overwhelming- Here's a Story-Driven Marketing Plan for Steady Support
**Struggling with fundraising? Join the free workshop, Fundraise with Confidence, and learn how to start support conversations without feeling pushy or uncomfortable.Save your seat: irisstorytelling.com/fundraising **You’ve poured your life into ministry—but when it comes to asking for support, it feels heavy, awkward, even shameful sometimes. What if it’s not that you’re bad at fundraising… but t
54 | Struggling With Ministry Fundraising? A Simple Story Framework That Finally Works
You’re doing the work. You’re showing up. You care deeply about the mission—but when it comes time to write a newsletter or ask for support, you freeze. Fundraising feels heavy, confusing, and way harder than it should.In this episode, I walk you through a simple story framework you can start using immediately to bring clarity to your messaging and help donors stay engaged—without forcing yourself
53 | Lost in the Weeds? How Clear Messaging Makes Ministry Fundraising Easier
When you’re buried in the day-to-day of ministry, it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture—and even harder to explain what your ministry actually does. You end up stumbling through explanations, listing programs, and hoping donors somehow “get it.”In this episode, we talk about why unclear messaging makes ministry fundraising harder than it needs to be—and how to get out of the weeds. You’ll lea
52 | When You're Burnt Out from Fundraising - 3 Simple Shifts For Clarity & Steady Support
Ministry fundraising can feel exhausting—especially when you’ve been faithful for years and still feel like you’re barely making it.If you’re juggling everything, trying every strategy, and still feeling scattered, this episode is for you.In this conversation, we talk about why fundraising so often feels heavy and unfocused—and how to move from burnout and pressure into clarity and peace. I walk y
51 | Hate Fundraising? 3 Ways to Ease the "Ick" of Asking for Money in Ministry
If you hate fundraising and feel an overwhelming sense of shame or “ick” every time you have to ask for money, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong. In this episode, we unpack why asking for money feels so uncomfortable for so many ministry leaders and share three practical mindset shifts that can ease (and even dissolve) that icky feeling. If fundraising feels heavy, awkward, or e
50 | LIVE COACHING: Clarify Your Ministry Fundraising Message w/ Cherilyn Kolbas
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/48-is-there-1-thing-that-creates-explosive-fundraising-growth/id1827301847?i=1000745702596If ministry fundraising feels heavy, confusing, or harder than it should be, unclear messaging may be the real issue holding you back. In this episode, you’ll hear a live coaching conversation with a seasoned ministry leader who admits, “Sometimes I don’t even know what w
49 | 3 Beliefs That Keep You Stuck in Ministry Fundraising
If your ministry fundraising feels stuck—no matter how long you’ve been serving or how faithfully you’ve shown up—there may be something deeper holding it back.In this episode, we unpack 3 common beliefs that quietly keep ministry fundraising from moving forward. If you’re tired of second-guessing what to say, feeling awkward asking for support, or wondering why your message isn’t connecting, this
48 | Is There 1 Thing That Creates Explosive Fundraising Growth?
If your ministry is barely making ends meet and you’ve been searching for the one thing that will finally bring explosive fundraising growth, this episode is for you.Many ministry leaders feel stuck—faithful, hardworking, and called by God, yet seeing little or no growth in monthly support and donations. Is there a single change that can create overnight fundraising breakthroughs?This episode will
47 | Fundraising Messaging Not Working? Start With Step #1
If your fundraising messaging isn’t working and you know it’s inconsistent, confusing, or simply not connecting with donors—but you don’t know where to start—this episode is for you. In this episode, I'll walk you through step one of fixing your fundraising message by going back to the core of your ministry: why it exists. This practical, faith-centered teaching will help you simplify your me
46 | Donors Aren’t Responding—Here’s What Your Fundraising Message Is Missing
Donors aren’t responding—and it can leave you feeling confused, discouraged, and unsure of what’s actually wrong with your fundraising. You’re sending emails, posting on social media, updating your website, and sharing about the work you’re doing, yet donors still don’t seem to connect, engage, or give. In this episode, we uncover what your fundraising message is likely missing and why story is th
45 | Did Your Big Fundraising Day Fall Flat? What to Do Before the Next One
Ever had a big fundraising day—like Giving Tuesday—where you showed up, did what you could, and still felt disappointed by the results? In this episode, we talk about why some fundraising days fall flat and why it usually has less to do with competition and more to do with trust. You’ll learn three simple ways to build stronger donor relationships so fundraising becomes more sustainable and less e
44 | The Mistake in Your Nonprofit Messaging That’s Costing You Donors
Your nonprofit may be struggling with fundraising not because its mission isn’t important, but because its messaging is unclear. When nonprofit messaging relies on clever titles, insider language, or vague slogans, potential donors feel confused and move on. In this episode, I'll unpack the most common nonprofit messaging mistake that quietly costs donors—why clarity builds trust, how confusi
43 | Why Your Fundraising Messaging Isn’t Working—and How Storytelling Fixes It
Is your ministry messaging falling flat—no engagement, low responses, and donors who just aren’t connecting with what you’re saying? In this episode, we talk about why “more information” isn’t the answer and how storytelling can instantly transform your fundraising communication. You’ll learn how story helps you engage donors quickly, build trust faster, and create messaging that is memorable in a
42 | Tired of Chasing Donors? How to Create Sustainability in Your Fundraising
Are you tired of chasing donors? If fundraising feels like an exhausting cycle of constantly finding new people because the ones you have aren’t sticking around, you’re not alone. In this episode, we unpack why that burnout happens and what it actually takes to attract donors who stay, grow with you, and truly care about the need your ministry meets. You’ll learn the three traits of loyal, long-te
41 | When Your Ministry Feels Invisible: 3 Steps to Build Donor Trust
Have you ever felt invisible in your fundraising—like no matter how hard you work, how many emails you send, or how consistently you show up, donors just aren’t responding? Many ministry leaders feel unseen and unheard, even while doing the exact work God has called them to. In this episode, we unpack why that happens and explore 3 practical ways to build donor trust so your ministry no longer fee
40 | Is Your Website Losing Donors? 2 Things Your Homepage Needs for Better Fundraising
Is your website losing potential donors? If your ministry fundraising feels stuck, your nonprofit website might be the silent culprit. Your homepage is often the first place donors land—and within seconds they decide whether they’ll stay, explore, and engage… or bounce. In this episode, we walk through the two messaging elements every ministry or nonprofit homepage must communicate immediately. Wi
39 | How Imposter Syndrome Is Sabotaging Your Fundraising Messaging
If you’ve ever stepped into your fundraising role and felt unqualified, unsure, or like you’re “faking it,” this episode is for you. Imposter syndrome doesn’t just affect your confidence—it quietly sabotages your messaging and shapes the way donors perceive your ministry. In this episode, we walk through three practical steps to break free from that cycle by shifting your focus back to what God is
38 | How to Quit the Burnout: Simplifying Your Fundraising Strategy
If you’ve been feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed by endless tasks, and discouraged by the lack of progress in your fundraising, this episode is for you. Today we talk about what happens when you try to show up on every platform, chase every trend, and carry more than God ever asked you to. You’ll learn a simple, God-led process for releasing the overwhelm, choosing one primary messaging platform
37| Out of People to Ask? 3 Steps to Mission-Driven Fundraising
If you feel like you’ve asked everyone you know for support—and you’re running out of people to approach—this episode will be a breath of fresh air. Today we’re talking about why relationship-based fundraising (“people give because they like me”) eventually hits a wall, and how to shift toward a mission-driven approach that’s stronger, deeper, and far more sustainable. You’ll learn the three steps
36 | Why Is Asking for Money So Hard? How to Reframe Your Fundraising Mindset
If asking for money feels awkward, heavy, or even a little shameful, you are absolutely not alone—and it doesn’t have to stay that way. In this episode, we dig into why fundraising so often triggers discomfort, the beliefs we’ve absorbed over the years that make it feel “icky,” and how to reframe the entire experience through a healthy, God-centered mindset. You’ll learn simple shifts that help yo
35 | The Fundraising Shift That Makes Donors Pay Attention
If your fundraising feels buried under noise, ignored by donors, or lost in a sea of competing messages, this episode will help you cut through the overwhelm. Today we’re unpacking the simple storytelling element that makes donors lean in, pay attention, and actually engage with what you share. Whether you’re speaking, posting on social media, writing an email, or crafting a donor appeal, this key
34 | Hard Time Fundraising? Clarify Your Ministry Story
Are you having a hard time fundraising—and you can’t quite figure out why? Your ministry messaging might be confusing donors without you realizing it. In this episode, we break down the three key roles in every effective ministry story—why your donor must be the main character, how your ministry functions as the guide, and where the people you serve actually fit in. You’ll learn simple shifts that
33 | How to Write Ministry Newsletters That Support Your Fundraising
Most ministry leaders know they should send newsletters, but writing them often feels confusing, overwhelming, or like a task that isn’t actually helping their fundraising. In this episode, we break down how to turn your ministry newsletter into a trust-building tool by shifting your mindset, writing with intentionality, involving donors in the story, and staying consistent. You’ll learn how to co
32 | Why Do Donors Go Silent? 3 Relationship Gaps Ministries Miss
Why do donors go quiet—even when they believe in your ministry? In this episode, we unpack the three relationship gaps most ministries overlook and how they quietly lead to donor drift. You’ll learn why supporters stop engaging, what they need to feel connected, and the simple relational shifts that build trust and long-term partnership. If donor communication feels hard or inconsistent, this epis
31 | 4 Steps to Sharing Stories That Engage Donors
Ever felt overwhelmed, thinking “I should share stories with donors…but I don’t even know where to start,”?You already know how powerful stories are—especially when you see God transforming lives through your ministry. Those stories lift you, encourage you, and remind you exactly why you do what you do.But when it’s time to share those stories with donors and supporters?Suddenly it feels hard.Mayb
30 | 3 Fundraising Mistakes That Are Costing You Donors—And How to Fix Them
If you’re struggling to grow your donor base, build monthly support, or create real momentum in your fundraising… this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been missing.In this episode, you’ll learn the three common fundraising mistakes ministries make that unintentionally lose donors—and the simple mindset and messaging shifts that will help you fix them.What You’ll LearnThe surprising clari
29 | Why Pastors Aren’t Engaging—And How to Reach the Ministry Donors Who Will
Have you been discouraged, ignored, or brushed off while trying to raise support—especially by pastors or church leaders?Maybe you’ve reached out for meetings, sent messages, shared your heart, and still… nothing.Or worse, they take the meeting, but they don’t take you seriously.And if you’re a woman leader, it can feel even more painful.You may wonder:“Do they respect my calling?”“Would they list
28 | Donor Engagement Down? Use Storytelling to Rebuild Ministry Support
If you’re ending the year feeling discouraged, burned out, or wondering why your ministry isn’t further along… this episode is for you.Maybe you expected more donors… more financial stability… more momentum.Maybe you’ve tried everything—posting consistently, sharing stats, updating your messaging, sharing all the incredible things your ministry does—and yet nothing seems to stick.If you’re tired o
27 | How Storytelling Transformed an Unfocused Vision into a Ministry Movement w/ Karen Prevost
What happens when your ministry has a powerful vision—but no clear direction?In today’s episode, I sit down with my mom, a missionary to Spain for over 40 years, to talk about how their team had a God-given dream to share the gospel in every province of Spain—but no real plan for how to do it.After countless hours of footage, and no cohesive story, everything shifted when they discovered the power
26 | Your 5-Minute Window: The 5-Step Framework to Instantly Engage Donors at Church
You walk on stage. The timer starts. You’ve got five minutes—just five—to share what God is doing through your ministry and invite people to be part of it.How do you get people interested that quickly?How do you move hearts in such a short window without sounding rushed or overwhelmed?In this episode, I'll break down a 5-step storytelling framework that will help you make the most of your 5-M
25 | Why Your Fundraising Stats Aren’t Bringing Donations—and What Will
As ministries approach year-end giving season, it’s easy to feel the pressure to “wow” donors with staggering statistics or shocking facts. But here’s the truth: numbers don’t move people.In this episode, I'll unpack the science behind why people make decisions emotionally before they ever think logically. You’ll learn why statistics often fail to connect with donors and how to use storytelli
24 | How to Find Stories That Inspire Donors (Even When Ministry Feels Quiet)
Does your ministry ever hit a “quiet” season—when nothing big is happening, donations feel slow, and you’re not sure what to say in your newsletter? In this episode, I share how to stay encouraged and keep your donor communication strong, even when ministry feels dry or uneventful.What You’ll LearnHow to recognize God’s work when ministry feels quiet or slow.Simple fundraising ideas for when you t
23 | Wrestling with God after Child Loss w/ Wendy Prevost
Losing a child is every parent's worst nightmare. Wendy, a faithful follower of Jesus, never imagined it would happen to her, and yet it did. Why would God allow it? Wasn't He their protector? Didn't He know the good that her son could've done in the world? Wendy opens up about the anger, doubt, and feelings of betrayal that followed, the moment she chose to worship in the dirt
22 | What to Post on Social Media When Your Ministry Needs More Donor Engagement
If you’ve ever stared at your ministry’s social media page wondering “What do I even post?” — this episode is for you!I'll break down a simple, story-driven approach to creating posts that actually grab attention and get people to engage. You’ll learn how to think strategically about each platform, write captions that hook your audience, and guide followers toward meaningful next steps that s
21 | When Donors Drop Off: 3 Ways to Keep Donations Flowing
Are you worried your donors will start to fade or monthly gifts slow down? It’s normal to feel anxious when supporters stop giving—especially when your ministry depends on their generosity. But instead of blaming the economy or your donors’ circumstances, what if you could take simple steps to rebuild trust, re-engage hearts, and keep those donations steady?In this episode, I'll share 3 prac
20 | Still Not Seeing Donations? 3 Things Every Fundraiser Must Make Crystal Clear
If you’ve ever poured your heart into a presentation, shared stories from your ministry, and still walked away wondering why no one gave—this one's for you.In today’s episode, I'll share 3 things every fundraiser must make crystal clear before stepping on stage, sending that year-end appeal, or meeting with potential supporters.You’ll learn:How to identify and speak directly to your idea
19 | Is Marriage Restoration Possible After 8 Years? A Christian Testimony w/ Uliana Komodi
If you’ve prayed for years for your marriage and nothing seems to change, what do you do?In this powerful episode, I sit down with Uliana Komodi, who shares her raw, faith-filled story of waiting, heartbreak, and perseverance — trusting God for marriage restoration for 8 long years.Uliana opens up about the pain of watching her husband walk away, the moment she told God she was done, and how the L
18 | Hate Fundraising? 3 Things to Get Rid of the Shame of Asking
Does fundraising feel icky, awkward, or like a “necessary evil”? Many women ministry leaders feel stuck—tired of asking, unsure how to talk to supporters, and worried how their ask will come across. In this episode, we'll reframe fundraising through a biblical lens (2 Corinthians 8) and shows how to invite supporters into God’s work without guilt or pressure.In this episode, you’ll learn:How
17 | When Fundraising Videos Don't Work – 3 Steps for Clear Donor Messaging
Your fundraising videos look great—but they’re not bringing in the donor support you hoped for. Sound familiar? The truth is, even the most powerful film can only do so much if your message isn’t clear.In today’s episode, I’ll share three key steps to clarify your ministry fundraising message so that your videos (and every other piece of communication) connect with donors in the most effective way
16 | Donors Ghosting You? The #1 Thing Every Ask Must Have
You’ve shared your ministry vision, made the ask, and then... crickets. It’s frustrating, discouraging, and it leaves you wondering what went wrong.In this episode, we’ll unpack the #1 thing every donor ask needs that will help move people from silence to a clear understanding, and drive them to action.You’ll learn:Why many ministry leaders unintentionally leave this piece out of their askHow addi
15 | Burned Out in Ministry? How to Find Joy, Rest, and Safe Support w/ Jourdan Lunsford
Are you quietly unhappy in ministry, feeling burned out, or wondering how long you can keep going? You’re not alone. In this conversation with Jourdan Lunsford, we talk about the hidden pain many women ministry leaders carry—and the steps toward healing, joy, and sustainable ministry.Jourdan shares her journey of laying down identity tied to ministry roles, processing unresolved pain, and discover
14 | 3 Things Confusing Your Donors (and How to Fix Them)
Have you ever shared about your ministry and gotten that polite smile… but deep down you knew they didn’t really get it? Maybe their eyes glazed over, or they nodded along, but you could tell your words weren’t landing. It’s frustrating, right? You know your ministry matters. You’ve seen God move. But somehow donors aren’t connecting.In this episode, I’m breaking down three sneaky things that migh
13 | Low Donor Growth? 3 Things to Prioritize in Your Donor Communication
Are you pouring countless hours into websites, social media, and updates—yet still not seeing donor engagement or ministry growth? You’re not alone. Many women ministry leaders feel spread thin, juggling every role and wondering if their efforts are really making a difference.In this episode I share a clear starting point for leaders who feel frustrated, overlooked, or ready to give up on communic
12 | Ministry Storytelling Made Simple: A Framework to Engage Donors
You know stories are impactful, but you don't really know how to tell a story well. Or maybe you’re given just a few minutes to share an update and felt unsure how to tell a story that's short but engaging and effective.In this episode, I share another simple story framework—a tool you can use to tell ministry stories with confidence, even when time is short. Storytelling doesn’t have to
11 | Persevering Through Years of Hardship w/ Margo & Joe Carl
Margo and Joe Carl were told their daughter had a very low chance of survival, after being born at 24 weeks. What followed was nearly 30 years of a deep, ongoing battle—walking through hardship, uncertainty, and countless moments of perseverance as parents.But in the middle of that long season, God was there. He brought goodness out of the struggle in ways only He can. Their journey is one of hold
10 | Struggling With Donor Communication? What God Says About Imposter Syndrome
Do you ever feel stuck when it comes to donor communication? You sit down to write an update or share about your ministry, and suddenly the words just don’t come. Or maybe you do get the words out, but they feel flat… and you walk away wondering if donors will ever really get it.You’re not alone. Many women ministry leaders wrestle with the same thing—and underneath it all is something deeper: imp
09 | 5 Steps to Write Your Ministry Newsletter So Donors Engage
If you’ve ever sat down to write your ministry update and thought, “What do I even say?” or “This feels like a chore”—this episode is for you.In today’s episode, I’m walking you through a practical, step-by-step framework for writing email ministry updates that your donors will actually want to read.We’ll cover:Why regular communication keeps donors connected and givingThe 5 steps to writing an ef
08 | 3 Steps to Build a Ministry Story Bank that Engages Donors
Wouldn’t it be amazing to have a treasure box full of ministry stories—organized, searchable, and ready to share whenever you need them?In this episode of The Story-Driven Ministry, I’ll walk you through 3 simple but powerful steps to help you collect, document, and follow up on impact stories from your ministry. Whether you have five stories or five hundred, this system will save you time, reduce
