The Professional Fundraiser Podcast

The Professional Fundraiser

Welcome to The Professional Fundraiser Podcast, the go-to podcast for insights into private-site fundraising and the evolving world of UK charities. Bringing you behind the scenes of fundraising for some of the country’s largest charitable organisations, the podcast shares real conversations, practical experiences and expert perspectives from professionals working across the third sector.

Join fundraising leaders, industry experts and experienced professionals as we discuss what’s working in modern fundraising, share lessons from the field, and explore how fresh thinking and innovative approaches are helping charities build stronger supporter connections and deliver greater impact.

Whether you work in fundraising, supporter engagement, charity leadership or are simply passionate about the sector, you’ll gain valuable industry insight, practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of the strategies behind successful fundraising campaigns across the UK.

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11 episodes
Avg 42 min
English

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S1 · E6
Friday · 1 hr 2 min
6. Halloween Special: Busting Fundraising Myths
Are fundraisers just pushy salespeople? And does recruiting more donors mean more cancellations? In this Halloween special of The Professional Fundraiser Podcast, Kelvin and Paul tackle some of the biggest myths and misconceptions surrounding professional fundraising. From public perceptions of how charities raise money to the internal challenges and realities of the fundraising sector, the team separates fact from fiction and explores what it really takes to deliver successful, sustainable fundraising. They discuss why fundraising is much more than bucket collections and volunteering, how professional fundraisers build long-term careers, and why face-to-face fundraising continues to thrive despite changes to the high street and the growth of digital giving. The conversation also explores the realities of working as a fundraiser, the differences between employed and self-employed roles, and why offering donors meaningful choice is essential to building lasting relationships with charities. And when it comes to donor retention, the team challenges some common assumptions with real-world data, exploring why the quality of conversations and the suitability of the donor matter far more than simply chasing numbers. Whether you're a charity professional, an experienced fundraiser, considering a career in the sector, or simply curious about how professional fundraising works, this episode offers an honest look behind the myths. In this episode, we explore: 🎃 Who actually does the fundraising? Why professional fundraising agencies exist and why the public may not always realise they're speaking to an agency representative. Volunteers vs. paid professionals: Why fundraising is a demanding, full-time career that requires commitment, resilience and skill. Building a career in fundraising: From frontline fundraising to field management, regional leadership and beyond. The reality of charity leadership: Why CEOs, governance and professional management are essential to protecting charities, their reputations and the causes they support. Is face-to-face fundraising in decline? How changing high streets, new locations and digital channels are reshaping the way fundraisers connect with the public. Are self-employed fundraisers more pushy? Exploring motivation, professional standards and why no means no. Does offering multiple fundraising products dilute results? Why regular giving, lotteries and other options can complement one another by giving donors more choice. Do higher donations lead to more cancellations? Why affordability, donor suitability and the way a donation is requested matter. Do the highest-performing fundraisers have higher cancellation rates? What the team's experience and data reveal about donor quality, confidence and the importance of meaningful conversations. Join Kelvin and Paul as they challenge the myths, share their experiences and shine a light on the realities of professional fundraising.
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October 23 · 45 min
5.5 We Interview our Charity Partners
We have a special minisode for you this month as we sit down with some of our fantastic charity partners! Each year, we come together for our Autumn Company Day to reflect on our progress, look ahead at what’s next, and find inspiration to keep us moving forward through the colder months. Katie, our Partnerships Manager, chats with our charity partners about their careers, their goals for the future, and, of course, what they love about working with us! Tune in to hear from James at The Royal British Legion, Gemma at Alzheimer’s Society, and Chloe at Macmillan Cancer Support. Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube Follow us for more via @profundraiseruk on Instagram or find us on Linkedin. Visit our website to learn more about us or if you're interested in fundraising with us | www.theprofessionalfundraiser.org
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S1 · E5
September 30 · 38 min
5. Innovation in Fundraising
How has professional fundraising innovated over the past few years? There have certainly been challenges that have motivated innovation within the sector, but there's always a time and place for innovation. Kelvin and Gillian sit down to discuss innovation, and what it means for the sector. Where have we, as a fundraising agency, done something different? Do we think there's always room for innovation? Kelvin shares one of his favourite examples of how innovation has been intelligent instead of relying on something technologically advanced to power a conversation. Listen to find out more. Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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September 15 · 22 min
4.5. AI Efficiency in Fundraising
AI is everywhere, but what does it actually mean for fundraising? In this episode of The Professional Fundraiser Podcast, Gillian chats with Sam about how our team is using AI to work smarter, improve efficiency and support fundraisers, while keeping the human connection at the heart of what we do. Sam shares how AI is already being used across TPF, from analysing data and documents to helping teams manage emails, research information and streamline everyday tasks. They also discuss how AI is being explored in supporter care, including tools that can help teams answer donor questions in real time. Connect with TPF: Instagram: @profundraiseruk Share the Episode: If you found these insights valuable, please share this episode with a colleague on LinkedIn! Music used: Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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S1 · E4
August 28 · 43 min
4. Fostering Successful Client Relationships
What does a truly great client relationship look like? In this episode of the TPF Podcast, Kelvin and Katie, our Client Success Manager, explore what it takes to build strong, long-term partnerships between fundraising agencies and charities. From managing expectations and having honest conversations to navigating challenges, celebrating successes and building trust, they take a behind-the-scenes look at how effective client management supports successful face-to-face fundraising campaigns. They discuss why transparency matters, how to handle difficult conversations without making excuses, and the importance of listening, curiosity and emotional intelligence when things don't go to plan. They also explore the balance between giving clients visibility while allowing fundraising teams to get on with the work behind the scenes. With face-to-face fundraising operating in an increasingly unpredictable environment, the conversation highlights why agencies and charities need to work together, adapt to change and continually look for ways to improve. Ultimately, great client relationships aren't about everything going perfectly. They're about having the trust, communication and partnership in place to work through challenges when they arise, and continually find ways to do better together. Listen now and let us know on our socials how you foster successful client relationships. Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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August 14 · 33 min
3.5 Creating Scalable Fundraising Campaigns
Welcome back to The Professional Fundraiser Podcast! In this short minisode, Kelvin talks about the key considerations for creating scalable fundraising campaigns, using the 4 P’s of Marketing: Product, Price, Place and Promotion. But how do these traditional marketing principles apply to charity face-to-face fundraising, particularly in a challenging and ever-changing sector? Kelvin explores how thinking strategically about each of the 4 P’s can help charities and fundraising agencies build campaigns that are not only effective, but repeatable, sustainable and scalable. A short episode packed with practical considerations for anyone looking to grow a successful face-to-face fundraising campaign. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a colleague or fellow fundraiser. Subscribe to the TPF Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube via @profundraiseruk for more conversations on fundraising, leadership and organisational culture. Music used: Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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S1 · E3
July 31 · 57 min
3. Beyond Diversity: Building Inclusive Workplaces
Creating an inclusive workplace is about far more than meeting targets or ticking boxes. In this episode of the Professional Fundraiser Podcast, Kelvin and Angela explore what diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) looks like in practice, and why great leadership starts with creating environments where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Together, they discuss the business and human case for diversity, the value of recruiting beyond our own "shadow", and how unconscious bias shapes everyday decisions. They also explore generational perspectives on DEI, the difference between diversity and discrimination, and the role education plays in challenging assumptions and creating lasting cultural change. Whether you're leading a team, working in HR, fundraising or simply looking to build a more inclusive workplace, this episode offers practical insights, honest reflections and actionable ideas to help foster a culture of belonging. In this episode: Why diversity of thought drives stronger teams and better decisions The business case and the human case for DEI How unconscious bias influences recruitment and leadership What inclusive leaders do differently Why creating safe spaces helps people bring their authentic selves to work How education and awareness can challenge bias and build lasting inclusion If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a colleague or fellow fundraiser. Subscribe to the TPF Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube via @profundraiseruk for more conversations on fundraising, leadership and organisational culture. Music used: Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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July 22 · 41 min
2.5. Authentic Leadership in a Unique Sector
Growing a business requires more than operational expertise, it demands personal, authentic growth as a leader. In this minisode, Gillian sits down with Kelvin to explore what leadership really means, how it evolves as a business grows, and why staying calm under pressure is one of the most valuable leadership skills of all. Drawing on personal experiences, from challenging management cultures to leading a growing fundraising agency, Kelvin shares practical lessons on building trust, empowering teams, and creating a culture where people can thrive. In this episode, we talk about: Why leadership is about serving your team, not yourself The importance of balancing head, heart and hands in leadership How trust forms the foundation of high-performing teams Why great leaders ask questions instead of simply giving answers How different situations require different leadership styles Lessons from poor leadership cultures and how they shape behaviour Why curiosity is more effective than criticism when performance dips How leaders can remain calm during periods of pressure or uncertainty The unique challenges of growing an owner-managed business Why knowing your strengths and your limitations is essential to scaling successfully The importance of surrounding yourself with people who are better than you in their specialist areas How delegation, culture and engagement become increasingly important as organisations grow. Key takeaway Leadership isn't about having all the answers, it's about creating the environment where your team can find them on their own or with support. By leading with trust, authenticity, curiosity and calmness, leaders build cultures where people feel empowered to contribute, solve problems and perform at their best. Listen & Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a colleague or fellow fundraiser. Subscribe to the TPF Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube via @profundraiseruk for more conversations on fundraising, leadership and organisational culture. Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn
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S1 · E2
June 30 · 54 min
2. Is Face-to-Face Fundraising The Right Move for Your Charity?
Is face-to-face fundraising the right move for every charity? In this episode of The Professional Fundraiser Podcast, TPF leaders Kelvin and Paul tackle this massive question head-on. They explore how geographic reach, budget size, and brand resonance determine whether face-to-face (F2F) is truly a viable channel for your specific organisation. What We Cover: The Reality of Reach: Why some niche or localised causes might actually achieve a better return on investment by forming coalitions, utilising internal volunteer models, or focusing on alternative fundraising streams. Quality Over Volume: How to shift your mindset away from chasing empty sign-up numbers and focus instead on acquiring high-retention donors who genuinely care about your cause. Operational Readiness: How to assess whether your organisation, from your communications team right up to your board of trustees, is operationally ready to manage a face-to-face campaign. Whether you are steering a massive national organization or a hands-on community charity, this conversation delivers an honest, strategic blueprint to help you decide if face-to-face fundraising is the right investment for your brand. Connect with TPF: Instagram: @profundraiseruk Share the Episode: If you found these insights valuable, please share this episode with a colleague on LinkedIn! Music used: Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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June 17 · 39 min
Minisode 1: The Power of Company Culture: Insights from TPF's Leaders
What makes people excited to come to work each day? In this minisode, TPF's People Manager, Angela, sits down with our Founder and CEO, Kelvin, to explore the real meaning of company culture and why it plays such a critical role in employee wellbeing, engagement, and business success. Together, they unpack what culture looks like beyond office perks and social events, discussing how shared values, psychological safety, and inclusivity shape the everyday employee experience. Angela shares why workplace culture starts with how people feel when they walk through the door, while Kelvin explains the importance of creating an environment where every voice is heard and no idea is dismissed. The conversation also highlights the role of diversity in building stronger teams, the value of celebrating everyday achievements, and practical ways organisations can foster a culture where people feel supported, respected, and empowered to contribute. Whether you're a leader looking to strengthen your workplace culture or an employee interested in what makes great teams thrive, this episode offers valuable insights into creating an environment where people and businesses can succeed together. Tune in to discover how a strong company culture can transform the employee experience and help organisations achieve lasting success. Music used: Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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S1 · E1
May 26 · 31 min
Ep 1: Buying Boats & The Changing Face of Fundraising in 2011
It was over ten years ago that Kelvin, TPF’s Founder and CEO, embarked on a mission to establish a more deliberate and enduring methodology for the fundraising sector. Moving away from traditional door-to-door acquisitions and fleeting contributions from transient donors, he reimagined a strategy centered on cultivating meaningful donor connections and delivering superior results for our partners. Following several pivotal and occasionally surprising experiences during his tenure as a General Manager in the industry, Kelvin recognised the necessity for a shift. This realisation served as the primary driver behind the birth of a new venture. Tune in to the podcast to discover Kelvin’s journey from the ground up, exploring everything from the unique story of purchasing a boat to the milestone of landing our debut client. You can catch us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Follow our journey on LinkedIn at The Professional Fundraiser, or connect with us on Instagram and YouTube via @profundraiseruk. Intro Music: Song: Tollef - Time With You (feat. RVLE) [NCS Release] Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/TWU Watch: AT/youtube Outro Music: Song: Raul Ojamaa - Hold On Me (feat. Maris Pihlap) Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds Free Download/Stream: http://ncs.io/HOM Watch: http://ncs.io/HOMAT/youtube
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