エピソード

  • The Art of Listening: Zen, Black Belts and Better Donor Conversations

    The Art of Listening: Zen, Black Belts and Better Donor Conversations
    2026/07/07
    R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Listening well may hold the key. Alex Brovey, author of the “Zen and the Art of Fundraising:” series, joins the podcast to share her sixteen pillars of fundraising success, why you should be prepared to leave your agenda at the donor's door, how to spot cues and clues to identify gift potential and the importance of having a sense of humor and trusting your gut.    Panelist info: Host Grant Miller is an award-winning writer and editor for Sharpe Group who works closely with Sharpe clients to create compelling donor interviews for their newsletters. In addition to hosting the podcast, he frequently contributes to the Sharpe blog and Sharpe Insights Newsletter.  Alexandra (Alex) Pia Brovey, JD, LLM, has more than 25 years of gift planning experience and is assistant vice president, gift planning at Northwell Foundation, which recently completed a $1.4 billion campaign. She worked at Penn State University, Pace University and Stony Brook University, and previously practiced law (estate planning) in Delaware, Pennsylvania and New York. Alex is a board member of the American Council on Gift Annuities (ACGA) where she co-chairs the 100-year task force and serves on the Programs and Engagement Committees; president emeritus of the Philanthropic Planning Group of Greater New York; past board member and treasurer of CGP, chair of the Leadership Institute and a mentor; and a member of the Estate Planning Council of Long Island. Alex lectures nationally on many topics with an emphasis on Zen and the Art of Fundraising (she has a published trilogy) and serves on the editorial boards of “Planned Giving Today” and “Trusts & Estates” magazine. Alex earned a B.A. from Penn State, a JD from Georgetown and an LLM Estate Planning from the University of Miami.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    30 分
  • Keys to Unlocking IRA Gifts: Lessons From the RIFT Project

    Keys to Unlocking IRA Gifts: Lessons From the RIFT Project
    2026/06/23
    In this episode of Sharpe Insights, host Grant Miller delves into the complexities of receiving IRA gifts for nonprofits, a challenge often overlooked until it becomes urgent. Join us as we explore the innovative RIFT Project, launched by attorney Johnny Hayes, designed to streamline the process of collecting IRA funds after a donor's passing. Discover how this initiative addresses the significant delays and bureaucratic hurdles faced by charitable organizations when claiming these gifts. Johnny shares valuable insights on advocating for timely releases of funds and the steps nonprofits can take to navigate the often confusing landscape of financial institutions. Tune in for practical advice that can enhance your planned giving program and ensure your organization receives the support it deserves.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    34 分
  • The Human Element: Trust and Technology in Fundraising

    The Human Element: Trust and Technology in Fundraising
    2026/06/09
    The donor giveth trust and the donor can take it away—in a heartbeat. Grant Miller welcomes journalists Rasheeda Childress and M.J. Prest from the Chronicle of Philanthropy to discuss ways technology can shore up—or erode—donor relationships, the short- and long-term effects of damaged trust, the importance of a “good apology” and why the human touch will always be integral to planned giving fundraising.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    35 分
  • Up for the (Legacy) Challenge

    Up for the (Legacy) Challenge
    2026/05/19
    In this episode of Sharpe Insights, join me, Grant Miller, as we dive into the innovative world of legacy challenges with John Jensen, Director of Planned Giving at Washington National Cathedral. Discover how this underutilized strategy transforms future-focused planned gifts into immediate impact for nonprofits. John shares insights from their successful campaign, which unlocked significant funding while engaging donors in ways they had not anticipated. We explore the mechanics of a legacy challenge, its benefits over traditional matching campaigns, and the lessons learned from implementation. If you're looking to elevate your planned giving program, this conversation is packed with practical tips and inspiring stories that can help you secure long-term support for your organization. Tune in to learn how to embrace the legacy challenge and enhance your fundraising efforts.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    34 分
  • The Ins and Outs of Estate Settlement with Andrew Fussner

    The Ins and Outs of Estate Settlement with Andrew Fussner
    2026/05/12
    You’ve got to cover your bases to cross the finish line. Estate settlement expert Andy Fussner joins host Grant Miller to discuss the importance of tickler systems, what may be hiding in estate accountings and inventories, common and costly mistakes to avoid and how nonprofits can team up when named jointly in a will or trust.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    32 分
  • The National Association of Charitable Gift Planners: The Art and Science of Gift Planning

    The National Association of Charitable Gift Planners: The Art and Science of Gift Planning
    2026/04/28
    In this episode of Sharpe Insights, we explore the intricate balance between the art and science of charitable gift planning with Michael Kenyon, President and CEO of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners. We delve into how CGP supports professionals in the nonprofit sector through education, community building, and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of establishing trust-based relationships with donors. Michael shares insights on the evolving landscape of planned giving, the significance of national standards, and the upcoming trends, including the great wealth transfer. Join us as we uncover practical strategies to enhance your planned giving program and secure long-term support for your organization.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    26 分
  • Shifting Ground: Helping Nonprofits Navigate Change in Washington

    Shifting Ground: Helping Nonprofits Navigate Change in Washington
    2026/04/14
    Show and tell. Host Grant Miller is joined by Washington lobbyist Ali Bedford who offers insights into proposed legislation affecting charitable giving, the ways the OBBBA may cause a shift in donor behavior, the importance of advocacy at the local and state levels and why it’s the perfect opportunity through storytelling and education to change the narrative on Capitol Hill.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    29 分
  • Current, Correct and Complete: Turn Donor Data Into Opportunities

    Current, Correct and Complete: Turn Donor Data Into Opportunities
    2026/03/31
    In this episode of Sharpe Insights, we explore the crucial role of donor data in enhancing your planned giving program. Join me, Grant Miller, as I sit down with Jim Ross, CEO of Sharpe, to discuss best practices for maintaining accurate and actionable donor files. We dive into the importance of having complete, current, and correct data to build trust and tailor your outreach effectively. Jim shares insights on updating donor information, identifying valuable opportunities, and how generational differences can impact communication strategies. Whether you're new to planned giving or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers practical tips to strengthen donor relationships and maximize your fundraising efforts. Tune in to gain invaluable knowledge that can elevate your nonprofit's impact.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    22 分