Ep 18. What if the way we tell someone’s story could change the way others see them?

In this episode of Passion Inspires, Jeff sits down with Abbey Sladick for a heartfelt conversation about storytelling, empathy, faith, and the responsibility we have to truly see the people behind the stories we tell.

Abbey’s career began in broadcast journalism, where she learned that the most powerful stories aren’t simply about what happened; they’re about the people living through it. That passion eventually led her into nonprofit communications, fundraising, and community relations, where storytelling became a way to challenge assumptions and inspire meaningful change.

One of the most impactful chapters of Abbey’s journey came during her time at Mel Trotter Ministries. Getting to know people experiencing homelessness changed her own perspective and reinforced a powerful idea: instead of asking, “What’s wrong with you?” we should be asking, “What happened to you?”

Abbey and Jeff also look back on the partnership between Mel Trotter Ministries and Scott Allen Creative during the Immeasurably More capital campaign, which raised the goal from $12 million to $19 million. They revisit the research, strategy, photography, video, and creative process behind the campaign, and how taking the time to deeply understand the mission helped tell stories of homelessness with dignity and humanity.

For nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and communicators, this episode is a reminder that the strongest campaigns don’t start with creative; they start with understanding. You’ll hear why research matters, how empathy can transform the way you communicate your mission, and why investing in thoughtful storytelling can strengthen far more than a single campaign. If you want to walk away feeling inspired by stories that help people care, connect, and see others differently, this conversation is worth a listen.

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