In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch, MS engages in an in-depth conversation with ⁠Woodrow Rosenbaum⁠, ⁠Chief Data Officer at GivingTuesday⁠, and a leading voice in the global generosity movement. Together, they uncover how artificial intelligence (AI) and data are transforming the nonprofit landscape, from shaping donor engagement strategies to driving impactful decision-making. Woodrow dives into the ⁠Fundraising Effectiveness Project⁠, a vital tool for understanding trends in fundraising, and the ⁠GivingTuesday Data Commons⁠, a global initiative leveraging data to inspire generosity. They also examine the findings of the recently released AI Readiness Survey, discussing how nonprofits can overcome skepticism, implement ethical AI practices, and harness technology to build stronger, more resilient organizations. This episode is packed with actionable insights for nonprofits of all sizes looking to future-proof their operations and maximize their mission.

Key Topics

• AI as a Strategic Partner: How AI enhances decision-making and empowers nonprofits to act with data-driven confidence.
• Education and Readiness: The importance of equipping nonprofit teams with the knowledge and tools to embrace AI effectively.
• Ethical AI Practices: Addressing data privacy, transparency, and accountability to ensure responsible AI adoption in the nonprofit sector.
• Data-Driven Insights: How AI accelerates data analysis, revealing actionable trends and opportunities faster than traditional methods.
• Advocating for AI in the Sector: Why nonprofits must take an active role in shaping AI’s integration into philanthropy.
• Personalization at Scale: Leveraging AI to create meaningful, personalized donor experiences while maintaining authenticity.
• Overcoming Skepticism: Understanding the hesitations surrounding AI adoption and how organizations can foster experimentation in a low-risk environment.
• The Power of Imagination: Exploring how creativity and curiosity unlock the full potential of AI tools for nonprofit innovation.
• Strengthening Fundraising Efforts: Practical ways nonprofits can use AI to boost efficiency, retention, and engagement with donors.
• Opportunities for Small to Mid-Sized Organizations: Why these nonprofits stand to benefit the most from AI adoption and how to get started.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Data-Driven Fundraising
03:15 - What is the Fundraising Effectiveness Project?
07:52 - Using Data to Build Resilient Nonprofits
12:10 - Skepticism vs. Experimentation with AI
16:40 - AI Readiness Survey Results
21:05 - Ethical AI and Transparent Policies
25:30 - The Future of AI in Fundraising and Philanthropy
28:47 - Woodrow’s Favorite 1980s Movie

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Scott Remington to discuss the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) for nonprofits. They explore how AI can serve as a co-pilot, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making without replacing human jobs. The conversation covers the ethical implications of AI, the importance of education and advocacy for nonprofits, and practical applications of AI tools, including custom GPTs. Scott shares his mission with FosterAI, emphasizing the need for nonprofits to embrace technology while maintaining a humanistic approach.

Key Topics:

• AI can enhance decision-making in nonprofits.
• Nonprofits should embrace automation and co-piloting with AI.
• Education on AI tools is crucial for nonprofits.
• AI can help brainstorm and generate ideas.
• Ethical considerations are vital in AI development.
• Custom GPTs can be tailored for specific organizational needs.
• AI can analyze data faster than traditional methods.
• Nonprofits must advocate for their role in AI discussions.
• Imagination is key to leveraging AI effectively.
• AI tools can significantly improve fundraising efforts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI in Nonprofits

05:08 The Future of AI in Nonprofits

09:47 AI as a Co-Pilot for Nonprofits

14:59 The Ethical Considerations of AI

20:02 Practical Applications of AI for Nonprofits

24:49 Custom GPTs and Personalization

30:01 Foster AI and Scott's Mission

34:48 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Cherian Koshy, a distinguished innovator, strategist, and expert in philanthropy, to explore the evolving role of AI in nonprofit fundraising. As Vice President of Product Strategy at KindSight and a Certified Fund Raising Executive with extensive expertise in behavioral science and AI ethics, Cherian shares insights into how organizations can responsibly integrate AI to enhance their operations while staying aligned with core values.

The conversation kicks off with a lighthearted discussion about Cherian’s journey to becoming a Kentucky Colonel and his favorite 80s movies. From there, Josh and Cherian dive into the nuanced ways AI is being adopted in fundraising—touching on predictive analytics, AI-driven appeals, and the delicate balance between automation and maintaining a human connection with donors.

A key part of the discussion focuses on the findings from Cherian's new AI donor perceptions study, co-led with Nathan Chappelle. The study offers groundbreaking insights into donor sentiment around AI, with 80% of respondents expressing familiarity with the technology and voicing concerns around privacy, data security, and the need for human interaction in fundraising appeals. Cherian and Josh examine the importance of transparency, AI usage policies, and the ethical considerations nonprofits must navigate to build trust with donors.

Cherian also emphasizes the need for strategic planning when developing AI policies, highlighting how AI tools can enhance operations without compromising authenticity. He offers practical advice on forming internal task forces, piloting AI use cases, and ensuring AI aligns with organizational culture. Josh and Cherian further explore how nonprofits can address donor concerns about AI replacing staff, the implications of AI-generated images, and the role of policies in establishing clear boundaries for AI use.

Key Topics

• The value of transparency and AI usage policies in building donor trust
• How AI-driven tools can enhance donor engagement without losing the human element
• Insights from a new study on donor perceptions of AI in the nonprofit sector
• Practical advice on developing internal task forces and aligning AI with organizational goals
• Ethical considerations around AI use, including privacy, data security, and workforce impacts

Guest Bio: Cherian is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE), Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), & AFP Master Trainer. He founded the NonprofitOS, a generative AI platform designed to help organizations maximize their impact, which was acquired by iWave. Before starting NonprofitOS, Cherian spent more than 25 years working in the nonprofit sector, working with thousands of donors and raising more than 100 million for various organizations and causes. He proudly serves as the Vice Chair of Professional Development on the AFP Global Board. He is a sought-after trainer and keynote speaker, and his thought leadership has been featured in several publications.

Timestamps

• 00:00 Introduction and Daunting Fundraising Experiences
• 05:38 Transitioning from Marketing to Nonprofit Consulting
• 09:59 The Role of AI in Recruitment
• 14:55 Streamlining Processes with AI Tools
• 20:55 The Future of AI in Nonprofit Recruitment
• 29:38 Ethical Considerations in AI Usage

Resources

• Follow Cherian Koshy, CFRE on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheriankoshy/

Connect with Josh Hirsch

• Website: http://theaidude.ai/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch, MS sits down with Kat Landa, CFRE, CSD, Senior Vice President of Talent Solutions at Dickerson Bakker, to discuss how AI is revolutionizing the hiring process within nonprofit organizations. With over 15 years of experience in the sector, Kat shares invaluable insights on the integration of AI tools in recruitment, the psychology behind decision-making, and the future of talent acquisition for nonprofits.

A key part of the discussion revolves around the candidate's perspective. Kat emphasizes the importance of having an optimized LinkedIn profile, sharing how AI-powered systems rely heavily on specific keywords to surface the best candidates. She provides practical tips on how professionals can ensure they are discoverable in these AI-driven searches and discusses how nonprofits can use AI to prepare better interview questions tailored to their specific needs.

The conversation also explores the impact of AI on professional acumen, noting how AI can assist with more routine aspects of the recruitment process, such as note-taking and summarizing candidate interactions, freeing up human capital for more strategic work. Kat explains how AI tools are already being used to develop opportunity profiles more quickly and efficiently, allowing recruiters to focus on what makes a role truly unique.

Josh and Kat also touch on the potential future of nonprofit recruitment, with Kat predicting that AI will continue to evolve and improve both the efficiency and quality of hiring decisions. However, she also acknowledges the need to remain cautious about the ethical implications of AI, particularly around bias in the recruitment process.

Key Topics:

• The most daunting fundraising asks often involve board presentations.
• Transitioning from marketing to nonprofit work can be a smoother process if one is seeking meaningful engagement.
• AI is revolutionizing recruitment by filtering through large volumes of applicants efficiently.
• Using AI tools can significantly streamline note-taking and data collection processes.
• The future of recruitment will see a blend of human insight and AI efficiency.
• Candidates must optimize their online presence to be visible in AI-driven searches.
• AI can assist in generating interview questions for both candidates and nonprofits.
• Preparation and adding value are crucial in professional interactions.
• Ethical considerations in AI usage are paramount to avoid bias and discrimination.
• LinkedIn remains a vital platform for professional networking and recruitment.

Guest Bio: Kat Landa, CFRE, CSD, is the Senior Vice President of Talent Solutions at Dickerson Bakker. Kat brings 22 years of nonprofit fundraising and marketing experience to her work of partnering with nonprofits to recruit the talented professionals and leaders they need. Kat has also been responsible for developing and executing multi-channel fundraising campaigns for 100+ charities across the U.S. and Canada, raising over $65 million dollars. Her clients across these disciplines have included Ikea, Nissan, Blackbaud's Kintera, World Vision, Mercy Ships, AARP, Jews For Jesus, and Dress For Success. Kat is also a Certified Fundraising Executive, a two-time technology start up alumna, and now a Certified Spiritual Director.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction and Daunting Fundraising Experiences
• 05:38 Transitioning from Marketing to Nonprofit Consulting
• 09:59 The Role of AI in Recruitment
• 14:55 Streamlining Processes with AI Tools
• 20:55 The Future of AI in Nonprofit Recruitment
• 29:38 Ethical Considerations in AI Usage

Resources:

• Learn more about Dickerson Bakker: https://dickersonbakker.com/

• Follow Kat Landa, CFRE, CSD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katlandacfre/

Connect with Josh Hirsch:

• Website: http://theaidude.ai/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/

In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch sits down with Liz Peuster, the Chief Communications Officer of the South Carolina Association of CPAs (SCACPA). Liz brings over two decades of experience in association management, communications, and technology integration. The episode looks at the impact of AI tools on the nonprofit sector, particularly in associations, and highlights how Liz’s innovative approach has led her organization through successful AI adoption.

Josh and Liz address the challenges and responsibilities that come with adopting AI, particularly around ethics and data privacy. Liz shares her straightforward approach to responsible AI use: treating AI like any other technology and ensuring sensitive data remains secure. She emphasizes the need for training and education, both for staff and association members, to demystify AI and create trust within the organization. According to Liz, education is the backbone of successful AI integration, and associations must invest in upskilling their teams to stay relevant in an increasingly digital world.

The discussion further explores the potential of AI as a tool for building lasting member relationships and the shift in focus for associations away from commoditized content and education to the more human-centric aspects of advocacy and community support. Liz underscores the necessity of embracing AI not just for operational efficiency but as a strategy for remaining relevant and competitive.

Liz offers practical advice for organizations looking to start their AI journey, emphasizing the importance of starting small and scaling up. She suggests identifying routine, repetitive tasks where AI can make an immediate impact and build from there. Throughout the episode, she remains optimistic about the future of AI in associations, stressing that with the right balance of human oversight and technological adoption, AI can become an invaluable partner in advancing an organization’s mission and delivering value to its members.

Key Topics:

• How AI tools can boost operational efficiency in associations
• The role of Custom GPTs in improving member engagement and communication
• The human element and ethical considerations in AI adoption
• Education and training as vital aspects of AI integration
• Practical steps for associations to begin their AI journey
• The evolving landscape of AI in nonprofit organizations and its promising future

Guest Bio: Liz Peuster, CAE, is an accomplished association professional with over 20 years of experience in communications, membership, and technology integration. As the Chief Communications Officer at SCACPA, she champions association initiatives, tells inspiring member stories, and plays a pivotal role in advocacy efforts. Liz has led SCACPA’s team through the adoption of AI tools aimed at boosting operational efficiency and delivering enhanced value to members. Her career is marked by notable achievements in membership growth, innovative tech initiatives, and strategic leadership across prominent associations. A Certified Association Executive (CAE), Liz is dedicated to driving organizational success through technology-driven advancements in the association sector.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction to AI in Associations and Nonprofits
• 02:04 – Efficiency Gains from Adopting AI Tools
• 05:52 – Using Custom GPTs for Enhanced Member Engagement
• 10:11 – The Human Element in Technology Integration
• 14:08 – Ethical and Responsible AI Use
• 17:54 – The Slow Adoption of AI in the Association Space
• 21:48 – Importance of Education and Training for AI Integration
• 26:07 – Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Nonprofits
• 30:09 – Practical Tips for Associations Starting with AI

Resources:

• Learn more about SCACPA: https://www.scacpa.org/
• Follow Liz Peuster on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-peuster/

Connect with Josh Hirsch:

• Website: http://theaidude.ai/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshahirsch/

Episode Summary: In this episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch is joined by fundraising expert Erik Tomalis, Chief Evangelist at Virtuous, to explore the evolving role of AI in nonprofit fundraising. With over two decades of experience and thousands of face-to-face donor interactions under his belt, Erik shares his rich journey from working with renowned organizations like St. Jude Children's Hospital and the Boy Scouts of America to helping nonprofits drive global generosity at Virtuous.

The conversation delves into the importance of personal connections in donor relations and how AI is revolutionizing the way nonprofits engage with their supporters. Erik emphasizes that fundraising is not just about transactions—it's about building lasting relationships that are driven by passion and generosity. With AI’s capabilities, nonprofits can now automate repetitive tasks, freeing up fundraisers to focus on what they do best: cultivating deeper, more meaningful donor relationships.

Erik also shares how Virtuous uses AI to create responsive fundraising strategies that allow nonprofits to personalize their outreach at scale, making every donor feel like the only one in the room. The episode explores how small, budget-conscious nonprofits can use AI tools to compete with larger organizations, leveling the playing field and maximizing impact.

Listeners will also hear Erik and Josh discuss the ethical considerations surrounding AI in the nonprofit space, touching on transparency, privacy, and the need for a responsible AI framework. Erik’s advice for nonprofits looking to integrate AI into their fundraising strategies offers practical takeaways for organizations of all sizes.

Whether you're a seasoned fundraiser or just beginning to explore how AI can enhance your organization’s mission, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you think bigger and work smarter in today’s data-driven world.

Key Topics:

• The power of personal connections in fundraising
• How AI is reshaping donor relations and engagement strategies
• Erik’s experience at organizations like St. Jude Children's Hospital and Boy Scouts of America
• The role of AI in responsive fundraising at Virtuous
• How AI enhances fundraising, from automating tasks to creating personalized donor journeys
• The ethical considerations of using AI in fundraising
• How nonprofits of all sizes can leverage AI to scale their efforts

Guest Bio: Erik Tomalis is the Chief Evangelist at Virtuous and a veteran fundraising professional with over 20 years of experience. He has made over 4,000 face-to-face donor solicitations and raised millions of dollars for organizations in healthcare, education, human services, and more. Erik is also actively involved with numerous nonprofit boards and associations, including AFP and The Giving Institute. He is passionate about leveraging technology to grow global generosity and believes that charitable giving is about personal connections, not just transactions.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Erik Tomalis and his background in fundraising
• 02:10 – Erik’s extensive experience on the road and how he balances work with personal life
• 04:00 – Memorable moments from Erik’s fundraising career, including a major transformational gift
• 06:30 – Erik’s use of AI tools like ChatGPT for personal and professional tasks
• 08:30 – The importance of iteration and refinement when using AI outputs
• 09:30 – How Virtuous uses AI for responsive fundraising and personalized donor engagement
• 12:00 – The ethical considerations of using AI in fundraising
• 14:00 – Erik’s thoughts on AI enhancing fundraisers' roles rather than replacing them
• 17:00 – How AI can help small nonprofits compete with larger organizations
• 19:00 – The future of AI in nonprofit fundraising and Erik’s key takeaways

Resources:

• Learn more about Virtuous: https://virtuous.org/
• Follow Erik Tomalis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriktomalis
• Fundraising.AI Framework: https://fundraising.ai/

In this debut episode of The AI Dude podcast, host Josh Hirsch—AI strategist and nonprofit consultant—dives into how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the nonprofit sector. Joined by his AI co-hosts, Insight Iris and Logic Leo, Josh explores the practical ways AI can help nonprofits turn overwhelming data into actionable insights that drive impact.

From data analysis to predictive analytics and natural language processing, this episode unpacks how nonprofits of all sizes can start using AI to streamline operations, engage donors more effectively, and shape strategic decision-making. Whether you're a tech novice or a nonprofit leader looking to integrate cutting-edge solutions, this episode offers practical insights to help you future-proof your organization.

Tune in to discover how AI can take your nonprofit from data-rich to impact-driven.