Hey Alumless World Listeners! We're going to be shutting down this feed and dropping new editions of the pod as bonus episodes on the regular Alumless feed. Thanks!

What happens when the heart of your alumni connection isn’t just the institution, but the place itself? In this episode of Alumless World, hosts Ryan and Nicole sit down with Courtney Stombock, Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations at The American University of Paris (AUP), to explore what it takes to build meaningful alumni engagement and fundraising programs in an international, multicultural environment. Courtney shares insights from her career spanning the U.S. and Europe, reflecting on how cross-cultural understanding shapes everything from gift conversations to volunteerism. From launching AUP’s first-ever Alumni Association to engaging globally mobile alumni across 145 countries, she explains how “place,” identity, and alumni-centric thinking redefine traditional engagement strategies. The conversation also tackles common misconceptions about international advancement and how to build community at scale with limited resources. Tune in for the extended podcast version, and special thanks to AlumniQ for sponsoring Alumless World.

How can advancement leaders thrive — not just survive — in times of high stress, tight budgets, and shifting expectations? In this episode of Alumless World, Ryan and Nicole Kempton sit down with consultant, coach, and “serial interim fundraising leader” Tess Nixon Spiller to explore what real leadership looks like when times get tough. Tess offers practical insights for creating environments where people can do their best work, even during challenging moments. In the bonus segment available only on the podcast edition, Tess reflects on courageous conversations and what it takes to develop into an authentic and effective fundraising professional. Thanks to our presenting sponsor Protopia. Be sure to check out the technology that’s causing a stir in the advancement world. Visit protopia.co/alumless for details and to set up a demo.